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Wishes #3
Storm Shells
The only way to move forward was to go back to the very beginning….
After three miserable weeks without Charli, Adam makes the decision to follow her, desperately hoping to find a way of following through on his promise of a happy ending.
He finds her back in Pipers Cove, healing her broken heart by spending time with the one person who never lets her down.
Both know nothing has changed. They're desperately in love, hopelessly stuck in limbo, and unable to find common ground.
When fate offers them a chance at a different kind of ending, it’s a one-shot deal. Running with it means changing their plans – something neither of them has ever been willing to do before, even for each other.
Just as one begins to find their way, the other completely loses direction – and neither of them realise that time is running out.
After three miserable weeks without Charli, Adam makes the decision to follow her, desperately hoping to find a way of following through on his promise of a happy ending.
He finds her back in Pipers Cove, healing her broken heart by spending time with the one person who never lets her down.
Both know nothing has changed. They're desperately in love, hopelessly stuck in limbo, and unable to find common ground.
When fate offers them a chance at a different kind of ending, it’s a one-shot deal. Running with it means changing their plans – something neither of them has ever been willing to do before, even for each other.
Just as one begins to find their way, the other completely loses direction – and neither of them realise that time is running out.
434 pages, ebook
First published October 21, 2013
103 people are currently reading
1568 people want to read
About the author
G.J. Walker-Smith
17 books830 followersWife, mother, writer, wanderer.
Author of the YA novels, The Wishes Series.
Saving Wishes - iBooks Breakout Book Of The Year (AUS/NZ)
https://www.facebook.com/gjwalkersmith
Author of the YA novels, The Wishes Series.
Saving Wishes - iBooks Breakout Book Of The Year (AUS/NZ)
https://www.facebook.com/gjwalkersmith
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
October 5, 2013
Picking up where they left off in Second Hearts, Charli returned to her friend Mitchell Tate and the laid-back lifestyle they were used to before she went to New York to find her only love, Adam Décarie. The relaxation of the little village of Kaimte in Africa plus the pleasure of the surf eased Charli’s tension and heartache, for a little while at least. But after only a week, she decided to return to Pipers Cove to her beloved Dad, Alex plus the inimitable Gabrielle; she knew they would welcome her with open arms, whatever had happened.
Meanwhile, back in New York, Adam was again living with Ryan, his brother, as he couldn’t bear to have the constant reminders of Charli in their apartment. He was destitute, but knew he was at fault…his selfishness knew no bounds, but he couldn’t work out what to do – so after only three weeks without Charli his decision to head to Pipers Cove didn’t surprise Ryan. On his arrival, their joy with each other was still the same, but a heavy-hearted Charli knew he would return to New York when his break was over.
With Gabi having moved into Alex’s house, plus him still running the café, Charli had taken over the cottage; Adam and Charli found their time together bitter sweet – their days, minutes, hours were precious. Few things had changed around Pipers Cove since she had left, but she found she was glad to be home. La La Land was back on the agenda, with Charli’s love of fairies and secret wishes keeping her sane – and Adam delighting in her joy and love of life all over again.
But suddenly things changed; the stress, the tension – it just kept building. With an opportunity laid out for a life-changing decision, one which could make or break the relationship – which choice would be taken? As New York and the big city lifestyle tugged at Adam, the wonderful, relaxing lifestyle of Pipers Cove, La La Land and storm shells strengthened Charli. What would the future hold for them?
I absolutely loved this third book in the Wishes series. The characters are beautifully developed with Charli showing the same strength and determination as in the previous books. She is a mature young woman now; she was seventeen in the first book, she is twenty now. The pieces have been woven delicately, the twists and intrigue are exciting, and there were also a few laugh-out-loud moments! I love the way Aussie author Walker-Smith developed Adam’s character as well; I felt like giving him a few smacks around the head on occasion! I highly recommend this series, starting with Saving Wishes, then Second Hearts with Storm Shells due for release on 11th November, 2013. For maximum enjoyment, make sure you start at the beginning:)
With many thanks to the author for this ARC copy to read and review.
Meanwhile, back in New York, Adam was again living with Ryan, his brother, as he couldn’t bear to have the constant reminders of Charli in their apartment. He was destitute, but knew he was at fault…his selfishness knew no bounds, but he couldn’t work out what to do – so after only three weeks without Charli his decision to head to Pipers Cove didn’t surprise Ryan. On his arrival, their joy with each other was still the same, but a heavy-hearted Charli knew he would return to New York when his break was over.
With Gabi having moved into Alex’s house, plus him still running the café, Charli had taken over the cottage; Adam and Charli found their time together bitter sweet – their days, minutes, hours were precious. Few things had changed around Pipers Cove since she had left, but she found she was glad to be home. La La Land was back on the agenda, with Charli’s love of fairies and secret wishes keeping her sane – and Adam delighting in her joy and love of life all over again.
But suddenly things changed; the stress, the tension – it just kept building. With an opportunity laid out for a life-changing decision, one which could make or break the relationship – which choice would be taken? As New York and the big city lifestyle tugged at Adam, the wonderful, relaxing lifestyle of Pipers Cove, La La Land and storm shells strengthened Charli. What would the future hold for them?
I absolutely loved this third book in the Wishes series. The characters are beautifully developed with Charli showing the same strength and determination as in the previous books. She is a mature young woman now; she was seventeen in the first book, she is twenty now. The pieces have been woven delicately, the twists and intrigue are exciting, and there were also a few laugh-out-loud moments! I love the way Aussie author Walker-Smith developed Adam’s character as well; I felt like giving him a few smacks around the head on occasion! I highly recommend this series, starting with Saving Wishes, then Second Hearts with Storm Shells due for release on 11th November, 2013. For maximum enjoyment, make sure you start at the beginning:)
With many thanks to the author for this ARC copy to read and review.
October 8, 2013
I'm utterly speechless. This book gave me everything I was hoping for and more, that ending was just...wow! Couldn't have pictured it any other way. This emotional story brings out so much in the reader, such heartache. I was really pissed at Adam, he was such a douche in the beginning but with every storm brings sunshine, and that sunshine has been long awaited! By the end when you read the last page instead of feeling like you've lost a friend, it feels like you've gained a life long companion. As Charli would say, this was written with pure magic..fairy magic. G.J. Walker-Smith has brought forth so many cute, unique fairy tales, I loved getting lost in them, and I also love that Charli is as Aussie as they come lol. Not afraid to adventure and surprise the world!
Life isn't a bed of roses, either is love. But if you find love like Charli & Adam, you never know, you may just get your happy ending too!
By that last page, I was practically balling my eyes out. I've definitely found a keeper! I've found my treasure, don't wait, come find yours!!! ^_^
LOVE. LOVE. LOVED THIS BOOK TO PIECES!!!
Life isn't a bed of roses, either is love. But if you find love like Charli & Adam, you never know, you may just get your happy ending too!
By that last page, I was practically balling my eyes out. I've definitely found a keeper! I've found my treasure, don't wait, come find yours!!! ^_^
LOVE. LOVE. LOVED THIS BOOK TO PIECES!!!
September 3, 2013
As found on: Book-Boyfriends
“Charli’s stories hadn’t damaged me. They’d captivated and enchanted me.” – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
That’s what I am thinking when reading GJ Walker-Smith’s books. Charli’s stories are like the water on the coast of Tasmania: You dive in, you come back up and still, all you want is to take another nose-dive in.
I am a lucky one (probably the luckiest person of the world) and I got to pre-read ‘Storm Shells’. And there is another quote I want to use to say exactly what I think:
‘ “I’m scared, Adam,” I bleakly confessed.’ – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
That’s how I felt when I started reading the book. I mean, we all know we left off with Charli and Adam in a place where I didn’t see a chance for return. Charli was deeply hurt and I have to say, I didn’t have much hope for Adam. Gemma heard all about that…
The book already got me convinced with the prologue… Alex always gets me weak. Man, GJ knows how to write a good guy. And she knows how to do the opposite.
So, what did I enjoy most about Storm Shells? I mean, can you seriously pick? Let me tell you, I couldn’t. I really adored the way Charli acts, reacts, lives. She grew up so much in the books and there is no better way to see that than reading ‘Storm Shells’ and constantly thinking: Yeah, that’s her, the grown-up, sensible Charli-version. The woman Alex always hoped to raise.
And then we have Adam. And I swear, I about strangled Adam almost every page in the beginning. I couldn’t understand why he did what he did, or didn’t do what I expected him to do, but I never doubted that GJ would make it all right and what can I say… Boy, she did so good on it. But before we got there, we had to go through something different…
“Everything ended today,” she whispered. “You’re never going to change, Adam. You’re never going to be able to give me what I want, no matter how much you love me.” – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
Returning to Charli changed everything and nothing for Adam and I have to say, when he came back it was clear, too, why nothing was different. It was clear that they desperately loved each other, and it was clear that they couldn’t live without each other, but it was also clear that they (not yet) could live together, either.
‘ “True love is still true, even if you can’t live it the way you want to,” I told her. ‘ – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
That’s what’s important for Charli and Adam, and I loved how Charli never once doubted that she loves Adam or that he loves her. No matter where Charli stood, which consequences she faced, she never once wavered in her love for Adam and I loved the way she looks at the whole thing: She doesn’t wear the cloud-nine-glasses anymore, she doesn’t have unrealistic hopes and she doesn’t pretend to know the answer. She just knows that for her protecting her heart is the best. And that means protecting Adam from everything and everyone, too. She doesn’t let people talk bad about him and that shows to me how strong her heart is.
There were parts were I just wanted to hit my head against a wall, asking ‘why, why, why?’ again and again, but GJ was patient with me, let me get over my anger and there you go, big brownie points for Adam. He mans up, becoming the guy we all want him to be and making me fall right back for him. Everything he does after finally hitting the ‘make-myself-grow-up-button’ is exactly the step in the right direction. Taking a leap of faith is what it all took and Adam had do jump down a cliff, find the white horse, fight the dragon called doubt and go back to secure his one and only fairy.
It was a wild ride and no doubt one of the best series-conclusions I ever read. The Saving-Wishes-Series is one of the best I ever read and worth every penny, cent, pound you have to spent on it. Hell, it’s probably worth a lot more than that because what it gives you is a head full of crazy ideas and la-la-Land-fantasy that make life just that bit better.
+++ End of the serious part of the review+++
And now to what I really think about the book: Charli and Adam? Who in the world are Charli and Adam? There is Alex. Alex all over and MAN, that man is just amazing!
‘Alex lurched forward, taking my face in his cold hands, grinning like an idiot.’ – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
That’s my favorite quote from the whole book. For you it might not be spectacular, for me though it’s amazing. Alex is just… *sigh*
Okay, so much for my fan-girl-moment. I’m done. Thank you, Gemma. Thank you.
“Charli’s stories hadn’t damaged me. They’d captivated and enchanted me.” – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
That’s what I am thinking when reading GJ Walker-Smith’s books. Charli’s stories are like the water on the coast of Tasmania: You dive in, you come back up and still, all you want is to take another nose-dive in.
I am a lucky one (probably the luckiest person of the world) and I got to pre-read ‘Storm Shells’. And there is another quote I want to use to say exactly what I think:
‘ “I’m scared, Adam,” I bleakly confessed.’ – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
That’s how I felt when I started reading the book. I mean, we all know we left off with Charli and Adam in a place where I didn’t see a chance for return. Charli was deeply hurt and I have to say, I didn’t have much hope for Adam. Gemma heard all about that…
The book already got me convinced with the prologue… Alex always gets me weak. Man, GJ knows how to write a good guy. And she knows how to do the opposite.
So, what did I enjoy most about Storm Shells? I mean, can you seriously pick? Let me tell you, I couldn’t. I really adored the way Charli acts, reacts, lives. She grew up so much in the books and there is no better way to see that than reading ‘Storm Shells’ and constantly thinking: Yeah, that’s her, the grown-up, sensible Charli-version. The woman Alex always hoped to raise.
And then we have Adam. And I swear, I about strangled Adam almost every page in the beginning. I couldn’t understand why he did what he did, or didn’t do what I expected him to do, but I never doubted that GJ would make it all right and what can I say… Boy, she did so good on it. But before we got there, we had to go through something different…
“Everything ended today,” she whispered. “You’re never going to change, Adam. You’re never going to be able to give me what I want, no matter how much you love me.” – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
Returning to Charli changed everything and nothing for Adam and I have to say, when he came back it was clear, too, why nothing was different. It was clear that they desperately loved each other, and it was clear that they couldn’t live without each other, but it was also clear that they (not yet) could live together, either.
‘ “True love is still true, even if you can’t live it the way you want to,” I told her. ‘ – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
That’s what’s important for Charli and Adam, and I loved how Charli never once doubted that she loves Adam or that he loves her. No matter where Charli stood, which consequences she faced, she never once wavered in her love for Adam and I loved the way she looks at the whole thing: She doesn’t wear the cloud-nine-glasses anymore, she doesn’t have unrealistic hopes and she doesn’t pretend to know the answer. She just knows that for her protecting her heart is the best. And that means protecting Adam from everything and everyone, too. She doesn’t let people talk bad about him and that shows to me how strong her heart is.
There were parts were I just wanted to hit my head against a wall, asking ‘why, why, why?’ again and again, but GJ was patient with me, let me get over my anger and there you go, big brownie points for Adam. He mans up, becoming the guy we all want him to be and making me fall right back for him. Everything he does after finally hitting the ‘make-myself-grow-up-button’ is exactly the step in the right direction. Taking a leap of faith is what it all took and Adam had do jump down a cliff, find the white horse, fight the dragon called doubt and go back to secure his one and only fairy.
It was a wild ride and no doubt one of the best series-conclusions I ever read. The Saving-Wishes-Series is one of the best I ever read and worth every penny, cent, pound you have to spent on it. Hell, it’s probably worth a lot more than that because what it gives you is a head full of crazy ideas and la-la-Land-fantasy that make life just that bit better.
+++ End of the serious part of the review+++
And now to what I really think about the book: Charli and Adam? Who in the world are Charli and Adam? There is Alex. Alex all over and MAN, that man is just amazing!
‘Alex lurched forward, taking my face in his cold hands, grinning like an idiot.’ – Storm Shells by GJ Walker-Smith
That’s my favorite quote from the whole book. For you it might not be spectacular, for me though it’s amazing. Alex is just… *sigh*
Okay, so much for my fan-girl-moment. I’m done. Thank you, Gemma. Thank you.
September 30, 2013
I am doing my very first book review on the third installment in a heart wrenching tale of what two people would do for love: Storm Shells (Book 3 of the Wishes Series)
G.J. Walker-Smith really knocks it out of the park this time. She hits AND closes all the questions I didn’t even know I had swirling around in my little mind. While ending the book with a very satisfying closing point, she also leaves it open for other important characters.
In order to get my point across, I need to rehash a little of what happened in Second Hearts (Book 2). That being said, if you have not read that book or the first one, Saving Wishes (Book 1), go no further and get the first and second books ASAP! The first book is currently free on Amazon Kindle and iBooks. Second Hearts (Book 2) is being priced at $2.99 on both sites which is definitely low price and worth it.
If you have read both of these books, then please, continue on and enjoy!
Second Hearts (Book 2 of the Wishes Series) leaves us wondering if Charli will ever get the beautiful ending she deserves. After finding out that Adam lied about promising to leave New York after law school….why Adam, why did you do that? Yeah so I was pretty mad at him. That’s an understatement.
What I love about these books is that it’s not a traditional love story. Charli and Adam don’t just have one struggle to get over and then everything is hunky-dory. Charli has to fight every step of the way to get the love she deserves and then when she realizes she’s not going to get it, at least not yet, she stands up for herself and walks away.
“We Weren’t giving up. We were just letting go for a while.” -Charli, Second Hearts (Book 2).
I loved the fact that Charli was strong and independent enough to walk away though. I was so proud of her! Still, I was wondering if Adam was ever going to step up to the plate and do something about how stupid he has been (because he already realizes he’s been the stupidest person in the world, he just doesn’t do anything about it).
Storm Shells (Book 3):
“I’ve jumped out of a tall tree this time, Alex,” I muttered.
He finally smiled, though it had a rueful tinge. “I’m standing at the bottom of it, Charli. You’ll be fine.”
That little, tiny excerpt from book 3 was all that I needed to know that everything, no matter the outcome would be okay and that I would be happy. It also is one of my favorite parts in the whole entire series. The relationships throughout these books are so intricate and beautiful, they draw you in.
The different twists and turns throughout Storm Shells will have you on your toes throughout the whole book. There are definitely a few chapters where I really hated Adam and his stupidity. Just like the first two books, you go through the gamut of emotions. This time though, there’s one emotion I didn’t expect to feel: suspense. Like I said, definitely some twists and turns.
If you love to read young adult/teen fiction, this series is definitely for you. If this is usually not your scene, you should branch out and be pleased and surprised by the way this story draws you in.
I read through this book in one sitting and I’ve never really been happier with an ending to a book like I have with this. I read tons of books. I’m a major bookworm. Books are like my air. So I’ve read a lot of stories from different authors. Some are good, some are okay, and some are just plain bad. None have really made me go after a series quite like this author though. After finishing Second Hearts I had to get the next book that instant. Imagine my depression when I found out it wasn’t released yet.
In order to find out the release of the third book, I went on a (electronic) man hunt and found this gem of an author: G.J. Walker-Smith. I asked, okay no begged if I could write my very first book review on this book and it has been my pleasure and honor to do so.
After reading these three books, I can’t wait for more from her.
Storm Shells (Book 3 in the Wishes Series) is currently set for release on Nov. 25, 2013. To keep up with more from this amazing author, you can find her here: https://www.facebook.com/gjwalkersmith
P.s. Thanks for the chance of a lifetime G.J. Walker-Smith, you made one of my dreams come true.
G.J. Walker-Smith really knocks it out of the park this time. She hits AND closes all the questions I didn’t even know I had swirling around in my little mind. While ending the book with a very satisfying closing point, she also leaves it open for other important characters.
In order to get my point across, I need to rehash a little of what happened in Second Hearts (Book 2). That being said, if you have not read that book or the first one, Saving Wishes (Book 1), go no further and get the first and second books ASAP! The first book is currently free on Amazon Kindle and iBooks. Second Hearts (Book 2) is being priced at $2.99 on both sites which is definitely low price and worth it.
If you have read both of these books, then please, continue on and enjoy!
Second Hearts (Book 2 of the Wishes Series) leaves us wondering if Charli will ever get the beautiful ending she deserves. After finding out that Adam lied about promising to leave New York after law school….why Adam, why did you do that? Yeah so I was pretty mad at him. That’s an understatement.
What I love about these books is that it’s not a traditional love story. Charli and Adam don’t just have one struggle to get over and then everything is hunky-dory. Charli has to fight every step of the way to get the love she deserves and then when she realizes she’s not going to get it, at least not yet, she stands up for herself and walks away.
“We Weren’t giving up. We were just letting go for a while.” -Charli, Second Hearts (Book 2).
I loved the fact that Charli was strong and independent enough to walk away though. I was so proud of her! Still, I was wondering if Adam was ever going to step up to the plate and do something about how stupid he has been (because he already realizes he’s been the stupidest person in the world, he just doesn’t do anything about it).
Storm Shells (Book 3):
“I’ve jumped out of a tall tree this time, Alex,” I muttered.
He finally smiled, though it had a rueful tinge. “I’m standing at the bottom of it, Charli. You’ll be fine.”
That little, tiny excerpt from book 3 was all that I needed to know that everything, no matter the outcome would be okay and that I would be happy. It also is one of my favorite parts in the whole entire series. The relationships throughout these books are so intricate and beautiful, they draw you in.
The different twists and turns throughout Storm Shells will have you on your toes throughout the whole book. There are definitely a few chapters where I really hated Adam and his stupidity. Just like the first two books, you go through the gamut of emotions. This time though, there’s one emotion I didn’t expect to feel: suspense. Like I said, definitely some twists and turns.
If you love to read young adult/teen fiction, this series is definitely for you. If this is usually not your scene, you should branch out and be pleased and surprised by the way this story draws you in.
I read through this book in one sitting and I’ve never really been happier with an ending to a book like I have with this. I read tons of books. I’m a major bookworm. Books are like my air. So I’ve read a lot of stories from different authors. Some are good, some are okay, and some are just plain bad. None have really made me go after a series quite like this author though. After finishing Second Hearts I had to get the next book that instant. Imagine my depression when I found out it wasn’t released yet.
In order to find out the release of the third book, I went on a (electronic) man hunt and found this gem of an author: G.J. Walker-Smith. I asked, okay no begged if I could write my very first book review on this book and it has been my pleasure and honor to do so.
After reading these three books, I can’t wait for more from her.
Storm Shells (Book 3 in the Wishes Series) is currently set for release on Nov. 25, 2013. To keep up with more from this amazing author, you can find her here: https://www.facebook.com/gjwalkersmith
P.s. Thanks for the chance of a lifetime G.J. Walker-Smith, you made one of my dreams come true.
November 10, 2013
WARNING: I'll be totally BIASED about my opinion about this book because I had a really awesome chat with the Author most my insistent time for trying to win her contest for this book before. Everything will be positive through and through.
I had no doubts about the ending of this couple. I clearly know that it would be amazingly heart-stopping "HAPPY ENDING". I love every bit of the events in each chapters, it was totally unexpected and though i do have a hunched about Charli being knocked-up but what I didn't see was the crazy turns of events! Sure to Mrs G.J. Walker-Smith's words everything is answered by this wonderful conclusion of Charli-and-Adam-thing.
Trieste Kincaid and Flyn Davis, thank so very much for the enlightenment :)
To the Beautifuls, especially to Jasmine tate cant explain how happy I am that your having your life at its finest! nothings every change, aren't they?
Ethan you coward. Great for showing up, it clearly answered every doubts I had on you,
I feel pity on Nicole but truly unforgivable. She's seriously a nut case. As a Psychologist I recommend her to consult a shriek if she got time.
Definitely Happy for the Decerie parents. Very smooth Jean-Luc, I wasn't prepared for your drama there. To Fiona as well to Jean-Luc (again), turns out magic wins despite everything.
Gabi, I totally jump for joy with your NEWS!
You are the definition of a perfect example of a young Father! (but of course my dad is much more perfect) You do did well on Charli! I can see your evil smile crippling through your face! *applause!*
Ryan you already given me a lot of reason to fall in love with you since second hearts! I just hope you realize that you are also worth it sooner, i hated later and clearly you know where it might lead you with that. ;)
You see Adam, every fiber of you was being a dick with an arse sprinkled on it! but I totally understand you (it gets one to know one) ;) I have that disease too and proven contagious. I'm glad with the out come and decisions that you make (FINALLY!). technically you no longer those menacing names.
Charli, I love your courage that you didn't wanted to take credit before! Every women need's a character like you Charlotte to remind them that every women's love is true to its truest form.
The Magic of La La Land hasn't stop here. I'm clearly not gonna get over it in a month, so I'll be really at the highest mountains for the next five minutes of awesomeness to be transported back to La La Land anytime soon!(I've been saying this a lot in my mind)
Can't say enough Thank You to You Mrs Walker-Smith for sharing this fabulous La La Land to us and inspiring me with deeper meanings! A bientot!
I had no doubts about the ending of this couple. I clearly know that it would be amazingly heart-stopping "HAPPY ENDING". I love every bit of the events in each chapters, it was totally unexpected and though i do have a hunched about Charli being knocked-up but what I didn't see was the crazy turns of events! Sure to Mrs G.J. Walker-Smith's words everything is answered by this wonderful conclusion of Charli-and-Adam-thing.
Trieste Kincaid and Flyn Davis, thank so very much for the enlightenment :)
To the Beautifuls, especially to Jasmine tate cant explain how happy I am that your having your life at its finest! nothings every change, aren't they?
Ethan you coward. Great for showing up, it clearly answered every doubts I had on you,
I feel pity on Nicole but truly unforgivable. She's seriously a nut case. As a Psychologist I recommend her to consult a shriek if she got time.
Definitely Happy for the Decerie parents. Very smooth Jean-Luc, I wasn't prepared for your drama there. To Fiona as well to Jean-Luc (again), turns out magic wins despite everything.
Gabi, I totally jump for joy with your NEWS!
You are the definition of a perfect example of a young Father! (but of course my dad is much more perfect) You do did well on Charli! I can see your evil smile crippling through your face! *applause!*
Ryan you already given me a lot of reason to fall in love with you since second hearts! I just hope you realize that you are also worth it sooner, i hated later and clearly you know where it might lead you with that. ;)
You see Adam, every fiber of you was being a dick with an arse sprinkled on it! but I totally understand you (it gets one to know one) ;) I have that disease too and proven contagious. I'm glad with the out come and decisions that you make (FINALLY!). technically you no longer those menacing names.
Charli, I love your courage that you didn't wanted to take credit before! Every women need's a character like you Charlotte to remind them that every women's love is true to its truest form.
The Magic of La La Land hasn't stop here. I'm clearly not gonna get over it in a month, so I'll be really at the highest mountains for the next five minutes of awesomeness to be transported back to La La Land anytime soon!(I've been saying this a lot in my mind)
Can't say enough Thank You to You Mrs Walker-Smith for sharing this fabulous La La Land to us and inspiring me with deeper meanings! A bientot!
September 4, 2013
Once again, Australian young adult author GJ Walker-Smith has delivered. Her third and final installment of the Saving Wishes trilogy, Storm Shells. As always there is a story behind the title that gives us a further insight into 'La La Land'. The story continues Charli and Adam's tale with the introduction of several new characters and the return of old ones. Walker-Smith's brilliant characterisation made me laugh out loud on multiple occasions as she presented a very realistic portrayal of one new inhabitant in particular (hint - his name is Wade).
Charli and Adam are both tested and there are some very adult issues raised in a sensitive and compassionate manner. GJ never shies away from the big topics and handles them well. Charli is again a strong role model for teenage girls and those in their early 20s, staying strong and refusing to be an object. There are more visits to La La Land and both main characters demonstrate their growth in adversity. The other romances in Piper's Cove are equally tested and the outcome is never guaranteed.
This story and the previous two are strong Australian novels that present realistic situations and characters, showing young women that they are able to put themselves first and not be somehow less. I think part of Charli's appeal for 'boy wonder' is that she is so strong (at least in terms of the decisions and choices she makes). She isn't going to put herself last and understands that loving someone doesn't mean they're always right.
Old characters and new make this story a tad longer than the other two but I honestly didn't notice this as I was reading. I looked up at the end of the tale and was surprised at how much time had passed. You get sucked into the cleverly woven narrative and laugh and cry right along with the residents. There are cameo's from some of the New York crew and the twist at the end is pretty much twisty!
Loved it and am waiting for the next story to be put on paper by this talented author. I would REALLY like to see a collection of the various fairy stories that have popped up along the way and have these developed in more detail. Also, a spin off for other characters would be loved. I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to Piper's Cove! Thank you GJ, for making me happy and taking me to Tasmiania - a state I haven't visited in real life but am planning to now. I want to see the Penguin King surf!!!
Charli and Adam are both tested and there are some very adult issues raised in a sensitive and compassionate manner. GJ never shies away from the big topics and handles them well. Charli is again a strong role model for teenage girls and those in their early 20s, staying strong and refusing to be an object. There are more visits to La La Land and both main characters demonstrate their growth in adversity. The other romances in Piper's Cove are equally tested and the outcome is never guaranteed.
This story and the previous two are strong Australian novels that present realistic situations and characters, showing young women that they are able to put themselves first and not be somehow less. I think part of Charli's appeal for 'boy wonder' is that she is so strong (at least in terms of the decisions and choices she makes). She isn't going to put herself last and understands that loving someone doesn't mean they're always right.
Old characters and new make this story a tad longer than the other two but I honestly didn't notice this as I was reading. I looked up at the end of the tale and was surprised at how much time had passed. You get sucked into the cleverly woven narrative and laugh and cry right along with the residents. There are cameo's from some of the New York crew and the twist at the end is pretty much twisty!
Loved it and am waiting for the next story to be put on paper by this talented author. I would REALLY like to see a collection of the various fairy stories that have popped up along the way and have these developed in more detail. Also, a spin off for other characters would be loved. I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to Piper's Cove! Thank you GJ, for making me happy and taking me to Tasmiania - a state I haven't visited in real life but am planning to now. I want to see the Penguin King surf!!!
January 20, 2016
A big thank you to G.J. For an ARC copy for review
I can't say enough how much I loved this book. Truly magically beyond words. G.J.'s character's in the Wishes Series have become like an extended family, and I have become so attached to this wonderful world she has created. This series will always hold a special place in my heart.
I absolutely adore Charli (Blake) Decarie. I loved seeing her grow into the incredible woman that she has become. I was so proud of her and, awed by her strength in this book. Of course I cannot forget Charli's fairy lore stories. Don't worry they're in here, and I am still just as enthralled as Adam is. There was one fairy in this story that became my absolute favorite.
"Do you want me to tell you a bedtime story?"
"No. But I can tell you one."
His smile started slipping. "I've missed your stories so much" ~ Charli and Adam
Oh Adam Decarie, how that boy had my emotions going off like crazy. I was very happy to have his insight, and it gave me a better understanding to what was going on in that boy's mind. There were times I wanted to shake him silly or give him a big, fat kiss on the cheek, but by the end of the book Adam left me weak in the knees. Charli's father, Alex is definitely a one of a kind hero to me. That man is wise beyond his years and truly magnificent, and you see it with Charli. The relationship between father and daughter is very special.
"He knew exactly what I was talking about, which proved something I had known for a very long time. My dad was all shades of awesome." ~ Charli
It was a little bittersweet for me while writing this review because this is end of Charli and Adam's journey. But even though there story is over their love will never be. It's timeless and forever. Thank you G.J for bringing the Wishes Series to life. I know I will always go back to La La Land with Charli and Adam again.
I can't say enough how much I loved this book. Truly magically beyond words. G.J.'s character's in the Wishes Series have become like an extended family, and I have become so attached to this wonderful world she has created. This series will always hold a special place in my heart.
I absolutely adore Charli (Blake) Decarie. I loved seeing her grow into the incredible woman that she has become. I was so proud of her and, awed by her strength in this book. Of course I cannot forget Charli's fairy lore stories. Don't worry they're in here, and I am still just as enthralled as Adam is. There was one fairy in this story that became my absolute favorite.
"Do you want me to tell you a bedtime story?"
"No. But I can tell you one."
His smile started slipping. "I've missed your stories so much" ~ Charli and Adam
Oh Adam Decarie, how that boy had my emotions going off like crazy. I was very happy to have his insight, and it gave me a better understanding to what was going on in that boy's mind. There were times I wanted to shake him silly or give him a big, fat kiss on the cheek, but by the end of the book Adam left me weak in the knees. Charli's father, Alex is definitely a one of a kind hero to me. That man is wise beyond his years and truly magnificent, and you see it with Charli. The relationship between father and daughter is very special.
"He knew exactly what I was talking about, which proved something I had known for a very long time. My dad was all shades of awesome." ~ Charli
It was a little bittersweet for me while writing this review because this is end of Charli and Adam's journey. But even though there story is over their love will never be. It's timeless and forever. Thank you G.J for bringing the Wishes Series to life. I know I will always go back to La La Land with Charli and Adam again.
October 1, 2013
I was so lucky to receive an ARC of this beautiful book.
GJ Walker -Smith is the bomb. Storm Shells was everything I could have wished for and more. It's taken me a good 15 hours after finishing to be able to even contemplate a review that will do it justice. I still don't know how I will do that.
Second Hearts left us with Charli's and Adam in different countries and no HEA in sight. Storm Shells picks up where we were left off. We get a nice flash back to Charli's childhood years where we get to see where she gets her fairy stories and saving wishes ideas from. We get to see the relationship between Alex and Charli and know what we know about their relationship now made it all the more sweeter.
I loved everything about this book, I laughed out loud so many many times I lost count. GJ also made me cry quite a few times too.
Charli was he wonderful self, I love all her fairy stories. I am left wishing I was brought up with those. I'd love to live in La La Land.
Adam, where do I start with Adam. I yoyo'd between wanting to punch him when he was being a super duper ass, and wanting to kiss him when he was being wonderful.
I was so happy to get to spend a little time with Ryan, there has always been something about Ryan that captures a piece if my heart, maybe it's just because I can see he needs someone's heart. I'm secretly hoping we will eventually get a Ryan book. Pretty please GJ, with a cherry on the top.
Now my favourite man in the world, Alex. I just love Alex, he's sweet, funny and wise... And oh so yummy. He's only 8years older then me so there is nothing wrong with me falling for the father of the heroine. Lol.. He made me laugh so much throughout this book, the bogan golf.. See I said he was wise, who else would come up with something like that?
He also squeezed my heart with his words.
GJ Walker-smith deserves a big award for this beautiful story, she is an amazing writer. I opened the first page and couldn't put it down until I had finished and then I wanted to start it all over again. I totally Los all chances of winning the mother of the year award because I totally ignored my kids for the day.. Hey they got fed, that has to get me something right?
Everyone needs to but this book. I can't wait to get my hands on a paperback copy. I'm looking forward to reading more from GJ, especially Alex's story that I know she is working on..
I'll leave you with my favourite quote from the Storm Shells.. After telling you one more time, to buy this book as soon as it's released on November 25.
“I’ve jumped out of a tall tree this time, Alex,” I muttered.
He finally smiled, though it had a rueful tinge. “I’m standing at the bottom of it, Charli. You’ll be fine.”
GJ Walker -Smith is the bomb. Storm Shells was everything I could have wished for and more. It's taken me a good 15 hours after finishing to be able to even contemplate a review that will do it justice. I still don't know how I will do that.
Second Hearts left us with Charli's and Adam in different countries and no HEA in sight. Storm Shells picks up where we were left off. We get a nice flash back to Charli's childhood years where we get to see where she gets her fairy stories and saving wishes ideas from. We get to see the relationship between Alex and Charli and know what we know about their relationship now made it all the more sweeter.
I loved everything about this book, I laughed out loud so many many times I lost count. GJ also made me cry quite a few times too.
Charli was he wonderful self, I love all her fairy stories. I am left wishing I was brought up with those. I'd love to live in La La Land.
Adam, where do I start with Adam. I yoyo'd between wanting to punch him when he was being a super duper ass, and wanting to kiss him when he was being wonderful.
I was so happy to get to spend a little time with Ryan, there has always been something about Ryan that captures a piece if my heart, maybe it's just because I can see he needs someone's heart. I'm secretly hoping we will eventually get a Ryan book. Pretty please GJ, with a cherry on the top.
Now my favourite man in the world, Alex. I just love Alex, he's sweet, funny and wise... And oh so yummy. He's only 8years older then me so there is nothing wrong with me falling for the father of the heroine. Lol.. He made me laugh so much throughout this book, the bogan golf.. See I said he was wise, who else would come up with something like that?
He also squeezed my heart with his words.
GJ Walker-smith deserves a big award for this beautiful story, she is an amazing writer. I opened the first page and couldn't put it down until I had finished and then I wanted to start it all over again. I totally Los all chances of winning the mother of the year award because I totally ignored my kids for the day.. Hey they got fed, that has to get me something right?
Everyone needs to but this book. I can't wait to get my hands on a paperback copy. I'm looking forward to reading more from GJ, especially Alex's story that I know she is working on..
I'll leave you with my favourite quote from the Storm Shells.. After telling you one more time, to buy this book as soon as it's released on November 25.
“I’ve jumped out of a tall tree this time, Alex,” I muttered.
He finally smiled, though it had a rueful tinge. “I’m standing at the bottom of it, Charli. You’ll be fine.”
July 1, 2014
Storm Shells picks up from where Second Hearts left off. Charli has left Adam and New York and returned home to Pipers Cove nursing a broken heart and seeking out comfort from the one person she knows will always be there for her, Alex Blake.
“I’ve jumped out of a tall tree this time, Alex,” I muttered.
He finally smiled, though it had a rueful tinge. “I’m standing at the bottom of it, Charli. You’ll be fine.”
Adam can’t stay away though and follows Charli home for Christmas desperate to be around the one person who gets him and who he truly deeply loves. But what happens after their little Christmas break? Adam is still planning to return to New York and Charli won’t make the same mistake twice….so where does that leave them?
“I want to tell you why I’m here,” I murmured.
“You chased me,” she said smugly. “That’s why you’re here.”
I needed to set the record straight. She needed to know that nothing had changed. I hadn’t figured a way out of the mess we were in. We Were still stuck in limbo and I was still a selfish ass. I was just a selfish ass who couldn’t stay away from her.
Storm Shells is the pivotal novel in the Wishes Series, and potentially GJ Walker-Smith’s biggest challenge yet. With this narrative, Walker-Smith moves the series away from the I-love-you-I hate-you-I-love-you circle of the naive and younger Young Adult novels and makes the characters choose what it is they want more from life; whether they be each other or their careers and pre-determined futures only the characters themselves know. Its a book where everything is thrown on the line and thus the consequences are huge… but can the pair work it out, or are they destined to be star struck lovers living only in memory and worlds apart from each other?
“True love is still true, even if you can’t live it the way you want to,” I told her.
What I particularly loved about this book was the way GJ Walker-Smith has presented it. Each chapter is told by alternative perspectives of Charli and Adam for the majority of the book, however Ryan does feature heavily within this book. As well as differing in perspective, we also get to see how the two characters are living worlds apart at the same time, as while Charli and Ryan are in Pipers Cover, Adam is dealing with the stress and pressure of New York on his own, unaware of what’s happening back home. Using this dual narrative focus, Walker-Smith was able to control the pacing of the novel to ensure that the reader never got bored, and the chapter dates made sure we were never confused as to what was going on and where for that matter.
The character growth in this novel is huge. Having been just seventeen in the first book, Charli is older and wiser now and more sure of who she is and where her place is in the world. Which is just as well after everything Adam put her through in Second Hearts and is about to put her through in this book. Charli knows she loves Adam without a doubt and wants nothing more than to be able to live the rest of her life with him, but she can’t live her life the way it was back in New York, not with his family breathing down her neck and no support from anyone she knows. The decisions Charli makes in this novel are HUGE, and her sacrifices are even bigger, but its the mentality of this young character that blows me away. To be in that kind of limbo situation and know what she knows takes a lot of strength and courage that was lacking in other books. She is afterall known for acting first and thinking later (and thus running when things get too scary) but in this narrative she makes the decision to stop running and it’s end result is astounding.
“Everything ended today,” she whispered. “You’re never going to change, Adam. You’re never going to be able to give me what I want, no matter how much you love me.”
I wanted to throttle Adam in the first half of this book. Seriously, I did. He’s a selfish ass who is still only thinking of himself. He lied to Charli in Second Hearts and while he acknowledges it, he still doesn’t necessarily see that he needs to make sacrifices or compromises in the marriage as well. He just expects Charli to make them instead. That said, if Adam wasn’t such an ass, we wouldn’t have had the chance to spend half a book with his man-whore of a brother, Ryan Decarie who is the polar opposite of Adam.
Ryan Decarie is a smooth talking business man, with a side of commitment phobia. He runs a tight ship when it comes to his business dealings, so you imagine just how unimpressed he was when Adam signed over his share of their restaurant Billet-doux to Charli back in Second Hearts. Even more so when Charli jumps ships and goes home to Piper’s Cove.
Tinker Bell,
For the most part, your defection has improves our business relationship considerably. Unfortunately, as co-owner, I still require your signature on certain documentation. Sign these papers and return them to me at your earliest convenience. That means today. Pretty Please.
Ryan.
Ryan’s strength of character really comes to life when he turns up in Pipers Cove to buy Charli out of Billet-Doux. Of course for Ryan the trip was purely straight forward business and meant to be easy, but as he quickly learns nothing in Charli’s life is as straightforward as it should be. And so Ryan stays in Pipers Cove learning to surf and the sense of joy that comes from taking an axe to a tree with Alex. I just loved the glimpses of his character that we get to see here when he is out of his comfort zone and the city. What’s more the way he stays to take care of Charli when he knows she really needs his brother is not only adorable and honourable, but it made me fall head over heels in love with him.
I’m trying really had not to give away some of the big twists here, but you ALL really really NEED to READ THIS BOOK! Preferably in order with the rest of the series; I don’t think it would make much sense otherwise and not to mention the spoilers it would contain for books One and Two. And for the record, Adam grows up in this book EVENTUALLY, and you’ll be pleased to see what exactly he does when faced with the unknown. Trust me the tears and frustration are well worth it.
All in all Storm Shells is an amazing book, and potentially my favourite in the Wishes Series so far. It’s the type of book I screamed at, cried with and never wanted to end. Charli and Adam may have found a place in my heart in book one, but they really shine as characters in this book and you can’t help but hope that they get their happy ever after that we all so desperately want to have.
This review was updated and reposted on my blog and can be found here:http://nevendbookshelf.wordpress.com/...
“I’ve jumped out of a tall tree this time, Alex,” I muttered.
He finally smiled, though it had a rueful tinge. “I’m standing at the bottom of it, Charli. You’ll be fine.”
Adam can’t stay away though and follows Charli home for Christmas desperate to be around the one person who gets him and who he truly deeply loves. But what happens after their little Christmas break? Adam is still planning to return to New York and Charli won’t make the same mistake twice….so where does that leave them?
“I want to tell you why I’m here,” I murmured.
“You chased me,” she said smugly. “That’s why you’re here.”
I needed to set the record straight. She needed to know that nothing had changed. I hadn’t figured a way out of the mess we were in. We Were still stuck in limbo and I was still a selfish ass. I was just a selfish ass who couldn’t stay away from her.
Storm Shells is the pivotal novel in the Wishes Series, and potentially GJ Walker-Smith’s biggest challenge yet. With this narrative, Walker-Smith moves the series away from the I-love-you-I hate-you-I-love-you circle of the naive and younger Young Adult novels and makes the characters choose what it is they want more from life; whether they be each other or their careers and pre-determined futures only the characters themselves know. Its a book where everything is thrown on the line and thus the consequences are huge… but can the pair work it out, or are they destined to be star struck lovers living only in memory and worlds apart from each other?
“True love is still true, even if you can’t live it the way you want to,” I told her.
What I particularly loved about this book was the way GJ Walker-Smith has presented it. Each chapter is told by alternative perspectives of Charli and Adam for the majority of the book, however Ryan does feature heavily within this book. As well as differing in perspective, we also get to see how the two characters are living worlds apart at the same time, as while Charli and Ryan are in Pipers Cover, Adam is dealing with the stress and pressure of New York on his own, unaware of what’s happening back home. Using this dual narrative focus, Walker-Smith was able to control the pacing of the novel to ensure that the reader never got bored, and the chapter dates made sure we were never confused as to what was going on and where for that matter.
The character growth in this novel is huge. Having been just seventeen in the first book, Charli is older and wiser now and more sure of who she is and where her place is in the world. Which is just as well after everything Adam put her through in Second Hearts and is about to put her through in this book. Charli knows she loves Adam without a doubt and wants nothing more than to be able to live the rest of her life with him, but she can’t live her life the way it was back in New York, not with his family breathing down her neck and no support from anyone she knows. The decisions Charli makes in this novel are HUGE, and her sacrifices are even bigger, but its the mentality of this young character that blows me away. To be in that kind of limbo situation and know what she knows takes a lot of strength and courage that was lacking in other books. She is afterall known for acting first and thinking later (and thus running when things get too scary) but in this narrative she makes the decision to stop running and it’s end result is astounding.
“Everything ended today,” she whispered. “You’re never going to change, Adam. You’re never going to be able to give me what I want, no matter how much you love me.”
I wanted to throttle Adam in the first half of this book. Seriously, I did. He’s a selfish ass who is still only thinking of himself. He lied to Charli in Second Hearts and while he acknowledges it, he still doesn’t necessarily see that he needs to make sacrifices or compromises in the marriage as well. He just expects Charli to make them instead. That said, if Adam wasn’t such an ass, we wouldn’t have had the chance to spend half a book with his man-whore of a brother, Ryan Decarie who is the polar opposite of Adam.
Ryan Decarie is a smooth talking business man, with a side of commitment phobia. He runs a tight ship when it comes to his business dealings, so you imagine just how unimpressed he was when Adam signed over his share of their restaurant Billet-doux to Charli back in Second Hearts. Even more so when Charli jumps ships and goes home to Piper’s Cove.
Tinker Bell,
For the most part, your defection has improves our business relationship considerably. Unfortunately, as co-owner, I still require your signature on certain documentation. Sign these papers and return them to me at your earliest convenience. That means today. Pretty Please.
Ryan.
Ryan’s strength of character really comes to life when he turns up in Pipers Cove to buy Charli out of Billet-Doux. Of course for Ryan the trip was purely straight forward business and meant to be easy, but as he quickly learns nothing in Charli’s life is as straightforward as it should be. And so Ryan stays in Pipers Cove learning to surf and the sense of joy that comes from taking an axe to a tree with Alex. I just loved the glimpses of his character that we get to see here when he is out of his comfort zone and the city. What’s more the way he stays to take care of Charli when he knows she really needs his brother is not only adorable and honourable, but it made me fall head over heels in love with him.
I’m trying really had not to give away some of the big twists here, but you ALL really really NEED to READ THIS BOOK! Preferably in order with the rest of the series; I don’t think it would make much sense otherwise and not to mention the spoilers it would contain for books One and Two. And for the record, Adam grows up in this book EVENTUALLY, and you’ll be pleased to see what exactly he does when faced with the unknown. Trust me the tears and frustration are well worth it.
All in all Storm Shells is an amazing book, and potentially my favourite in the Wishes Series so far. It’s the type of book I screamed at, cried with and never wanted to end. Charli and Adam may have found a place in my heart in book one, but they really shine as characters in this book and you can’t help but hope that they get their happy ever after that we all so desperately want to have.
This review was updated and reposted on my blog and can be found here:http://nevendbookshelf.wordpress.com/...
October 30, 2013
NOTE: I received the ARC from the author. Gemma, you rock!
Here's what I wrote Gemma, a.k.a. G.J.Walker-Smith when I was finished with Storm Shells:
"Upon my honor, Gemma, Storm Shells rocked my world! I had to read it as soon as I got it and now that I'm done, all my piled up ARCs pale in comparison!!! It's all your fault, too! How could you write such a magnificent piece of prose???????? I'm not kidding when I say that Saving Wishes is the #1 contemporary series of 2013. All three books blew my mind, and I think I'm gonna have to go back and read them all over again just so I could spend some more time with Charli, Adam, Alex and Ryan."
My feelings have settled now, seeing that it's been almost a month since I read the book. Guess what though? I'd write the same thing now. Storm Shells, just like the previous two books in this series, was written in such a brilliant way, finishing it made me want to cry. I need more, darn it! I don't think I'd ever get enough of this story, of the characters, of the little quirks of Charli's character. And of La La Land. Gosh, I need La La Land!
The whole book was mesmerizing. I couldn't put it down to eat, to sleep, or to do chores. I just had to finish it and that was that. The writing flows too well, bringing one scene after the next in a way that keeps you immersed into the story from cover to cover. I never ever wanted to put it down. To be honest, I didn't want the story to end at all. I will miss each and every character, be it a minor or a major one. They were all so thoroughly depicted, it was incredible. No character was done in a superficial manner. Even those that got 5% attention were well developed with depth that you rarely see.
The entire novel was full with ups and downs from beginning to end. If you've read the previous two, you'd know what ups mean. Ups = Adam. Downs = NO Adam. Yeah, you'd say that's borderline obsession. No. It isn't. It's love that knows no boundaries. It's love that gets mad, love that forgives, love that lets go. I won't say if there's a happy ending for Adam and Charlie. I will only say that those two had to go through so much - to grow so much - to get to the end of that book. Neither one was the same after the transformation of knowing the other.
Book two had me sooooo disappointed in Adam, I was ready to cry (I even teared up which is rare for me!). Book three's summary got me breathing hard. I was on edge the entire time not knowing whether Adam, a.k.a. Boy Wonder would finally get to his senses and realize that school and work don't equal happiness. He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He was selfish and stubborn but also incredibly smart and loving. Even when I was mad at him I couldn't NOT love him. Adam was Adam - Charli's Adam, but he became mine too. I loved him even when I was disappointed with his decisions. I loved him even when he let Charli go, even when he left her again and again. I thought "man, he won't ever sacrifice his law career, would he?" and a pang of pain laced itself around my heart squeezing, squeezing... Gah! That boy was one of the few fictional males who played with my head and heart way too much! I hate you Adam Decarie. I HATE YOU. AND I LOVE YOU TOO!
Charlie, my dearest Charlotte has grown into a real woman. Not a practical one, but a realistic one. She doesn't live high on unrealistic hopes anymore. She knows that Adam's love isn't enough because even though he loves her, he isn't with her. And she knows that her father, Alex, is the only man who would ever have her back 100%. There's this HUGE secret that Charli keeps from Adam and I believe she might've never told him, had not Ryan (Adam's brother) shown on her doorstep. You'll see what I mean when you sit down and read it, I won't spoil this perfect story for you. I'm just going to say that Charli is tough. She's smart and dedicated to all things RIGHT. She sees the world through a lens not many of us dare to use nowadays. I can only admire her.
And a word about Ryan. That guy is slowly winding his way into my heart. I just have a weakness for Decarie boys it seems. Anyway, I just can't forget the scene when he came to Charli, all dirty and sweaty from chopping wood with (as he put it) a 'real' axe. He was so excited! If I had been there, I'd been caught gawking at him.
Anyway, you see how excited I am about this series. It's for a reason - it's simply amazing! If you're into contemporary, reading The Wishes Series is a MUST.
Here's what I wrote Gemma, a.k.a. G.J.Walker-Smith when I was finished with Storm Shells:
"Upon my honor, Gemma, Storm Shells rocked my world! I had to read it as soon as I got it and now that I'm done, all my piled up ARCs pale in comparison!!! It's all your fault, too! How could you write such a magnificent piece of prose???????? I'm not kidding when I say that Saving Wishes is the #1 contemporary series of 2013. All three books blew my mind, and I think I'm gonna have to go back and read them all over again just so I could spend some more time with Charli, Adam, Alex and Ryan."
My feelings have settled now, seeing that it's been almost a month since I read the book. Guess what though? I'd write the same thing now. Storm Shells, just like the previous two books in this series, was written in such a brilliant way, finishing it made me want to cry. I need more, darn it! I don't think I'd ever get enough of this story, of the characters, of the little quirks of Charli's character. And of La La Land. Gosh, I need La La Land!
The whole book was mesmerizing. I couldn't put it down to eat, to sleep, or to do chores. I just had to finish it and that was that. The writing flows too well, bringing one scene after the next in a way that keeps you immersed into the story from cover to cover. I never ever wanted to put it down. To be honest, I didn't want the story to end at all. I will miss each and every character, be it a minor or a major one. They were all so thoroughly depicted, it was incredible. No character was done in a superficial manner. Even those that got 5% attention were well developed with depth that you rarely see.
The entire novel was full with ups and downs from beginning to end. If you've read the previous two, you'd know what ups mean. Ups = Adam. Downs = NO Adam. Yeah, you'd say that's borderline obsession. No. It isn't. It's love that knows no boundaries. It's love that gets mad, love that forgives, love that lets go. I won't say if there's a happy ending for Adam and Charlie. I will only say that those two had to go through so much - to grow so much - to get to the end of that book. Neither one was the same after the transformation of knowing the other.
Book two had me sooooo disappointed in Adam, I was ready to cry (I even teared up which is rare for me!). Book three's summary got me breathing hard. I was on edge the entire time not knowing whether Adam, a.k.a. Boy Wonder would finally get to his senses and realize that school and work don't equal happiness. He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He was selfish and stubborn but also incredibly smart and loving. Even when I was mad at him I couldn't NOT love him. Adam was Adam - Charli's Adam, but he became mine too. I loved him even when I was disappointed with his decisions. I loved him even when he let Charli go, even when he left her again and again. I thought "man, he won't ever sacrifice his law career, would he?" and a pang of pain laced itself around my heart squeezing, squeezing... Gah! That boy was one of the few fictional males who played with my head and heart way too much! I hate you Adam Decarie. I HATE YOU. AND I LOVE YOU TOO!
Charlie, my dearest Charlotte has grown into a real woman. Not a practical one, but a realistic one. She doesn't live high on unrealistic hopes anymore. She knows that Adam's love isn't enough because even though he loves her, he isn't with her. And she knows that her father, Alex, is the only man who would ever have her back 100%. There's this HUGE secret that Charli keeps from Adam and I believe she might've never told him, had not Ryan (Adam's brother) shown on her doorstep. You'll see what I mean when you sit down and read it, I won't spoil this perfect story for you. I'm just going to say that Charli is tough. She's smart and dedicated to all things RIGHT. She sees the world through a lens not many of us dare to use nowadays. I can only admire her.
And a word about Ryan. That guy is slowly winding his way into my heart. I just have a weakness for Decarie boys it seems. Anyway, I just can't forget the scene when he came to Charli, all dirty and sweaty from chopping wood with (as he put it) a 'real' axe. He was so excited! If I had been there, I'd been caught gawking at him.
Anyway, you see how excited I am about this series. It's for a reason - it's simply amazing! If you're into contemporary, reading The Wishes Series is a MUST.
December 4, 2013
Fan-freakin-tastic. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this trilogy. It's definitely become one of my favourites! Let me tell you why. First of all, how many times can you say that the female protagonist in a YA/NA book actually has the ability to hold her own! Charli was spunky, capable and believable throughout all three books.
What got me most though, was how real a lot of their decisions felt. In real life, you can never be sure you're making the right decision and when you fail, you face and consequences and pick up the pieces. Ms. Walker-Smith also did a phenomenal job in maintaining the believability of the parent-child relationship. Charli, deep down, knew that Alex always had her best interest at heart and was really only ever looking out for her. Did she follow his advice 100% of the time? Nope. When have any of us ever listened to 100% of what our parents have advised? Did she get into a mess here or there because she ignored Alex? Sure. But that's just what happens to all of us. Conflict wasn't really dragged out in an overly melodramatic way, either. If there was a problem, Charli dealt with it to minimize conflict, if anything. Very mature and capable. Suffice it to say, I was impressed with this leading lady!
These books felt organic and real and I don't even have the words, honestly. I am over the moon. I loved Charli and Adam. LOVED THEM. But most of all, I loved their relationships with those around them.
Pick these books up. You won't regret it. Can't wait for more from this wonderful author.
What got me most though, was how real a lot of their decisions felt. In real life, you can never be sure you're making the right decision and when you fail, you face and consequences and pick up the pieces. Ms. Walker-Smith also did a phenomenal job in maintaining the believability of the parent-child relationship. Charli, deep down, knew that Alex always had her best interest at heart and was really only ever looking out for her. Did she follow his advice 100% of the time? Nope. When have any of us ever listened to 100% of what our parents have advised? Did she get into a mess here or there because she ignored Alex? Sure. But that's just what happens to all of us. Conflict wasn't really dragged out in an overly melodramatic way, either. If there was a problem, Charli dealt with it to minimize conflict, if anything. Very mature and capable. Suffice it to say, I was impressed with this leading lady!
These books felt organic and real and I don't even have the words, honestly. I am over the moon. I loved Charli and Adam. LOVED THEM. But most of all, I loved their relationships with those around them.
Pick these books up. You won't regret it. Can't wait for more from this wonderful author.
December 21, 2013
After waiting for awhile.... Finally!!! This is the first book that I bought on iTunes right on the day of release. The only other time I did that was for Harry Potter. This is how enchanted I am with this series.
Here, the story breaks from the usual in that the chapters are told from alternating POV between Charli and Adam. Before it's only Charli's, now we get to know what's on Adam's mind too. Plus a bonus of prologue from Alex.
The character really grows here. In the second book I'm rather annoyed at Adam and almost wished Charli would end up with Ryan instead (cuz he's far more interesting ;) but now they're older, somewhat wiser so finally... HEA!!!
I really really like this series. In fact after I finished reading this I immediately go back and start reading ther first book again! Just was not ready to get out from Blake-Decarie land. Not yet. It's funny how the storyline closely resembled my life though not as dramatic as Charli's of course. I live in real live, not romance novel land aafter all. But yeah, I can totally relate to Charli, I understand what she's going through, and I am so glad she decided to be her own self . She follows her heart and her head!
Now I can't wait for the next series, Ryan's story! Looking forward to that.
Here, the story breaks from the usual in that the chapters are told from alternating POV between Charli and Adam. Before it's only Charli's, now we get to know what's on Adam's mind too. Plus a bonus of prologue from Alex.
The character really grows here. In the second book I'm rather annoyed at Adam and almost wished Charli would end up with Ryan instead (cuz he's far more interesting ;) but now they're older, somewhat wiser so finally... HEA!!!
I really really like this series. In fact after I finished reading this I immediately go back and start reading ther first book again! Just was not ready to get out from Blake-Decarie land. Not yet. It's funny how the storyline closely resembled my life though not as dramatic as Charli's of course. I live in real live, not romance novel land aafter all. But yeah, I can totally relate to Charli, I understand what she's going through, and I am so glad she decided to be her own self . She follows her heart and her head!
Now I can't wait for the next series, Ryan's story! Looking forward to that.
December 10, 2015
I can't believe it's over! It's all over!
I waited a few months for this book to come out. As soon as I could I downloaded it and finished it in six hours. Literally, laid in bed for six hours straight. Five to eleven.
Storm Shells is the third book in the Saving Wishes series by G.J. Walker-Smith. There are some big differences between this book and the first two. First off, the narrating alternates between Charli and Adam, the book begins with a prologue from Alex's pov when Charli was five, and instead of chapter numbers it has dates. All of which are successful in my opinion.
The overall story is beautifully constructed and I found myself marveling at how well the author can tie things together.
5 stars all the way!
I waited a few months for this book to come out. As soon as I could I downloaded it and finished it in six hours. Literally, laid in bed for six hours straight. Five to eleven.
Storm Shells is the third book in the Saving Wishes series by G.J. Walker-Smith. There are some big differences between this book and the first two. First off, the narrating alternates between Charli and Adam, the book begins with a prologue from Alex's pov when Charli was five, and instead of chapter numbers it has dates. All of which are successful in my opinion.
The overall story is beautifully constructed and I found myself marveling at how well the author can tie things together.
5 stars all the way!
December 9, 2013
It's an amazing ride for Charli and Adam, and what I like most about the series is that you never know what's around the corner. It's unpredictable, heart-breaking and yet heart-warming! I loved every single line of it!
November 15, 2013
Oh man, there's so much I can say about this book but I fear I won't be able to properly get any of my thoughts out. That's okay though, I'll try my best.
I had no doubts, before I even read the story, that it was going to tie up Adam & Charli perfectly. They would find their happily ever afters, even if it wasn't going to be how I know every reader secretly wants it to be. Magic rules over all, but if you don't truly believe in it, how can it?
I think for this particular story, it's best to just talk about the characters and how they've grown since the first story because it's my favorite part about the series. If you haven't read the book, you might not want to read this review. But proceed with caution, just in case.
I loved all of the side characters in this. We had some surprises, some not such surprises. The Beautifuls were truly smile worthy. I don't say laugh worthy, but smile worthy. Take that how you will. I think Flynn was an interesting character, though he doesn't appear all that much. I absolutely adored Trieste. She was a nice treat for Adam when he needed it.
Ryan, my dear. I have truly fallen in love with him now, there's no doubt about that. At first, I was surprised at how his stay in Piper's Cove turned out but then I wasn't really. I giggled with glee over his first encounter with Alex and was absolutely swooning over their relationship as it went on. It's those kinds of wonderful relationships between siblings in law (is that the right term?) that make me smile. It's great how he was there for Charli when Adam couldn't be.
Gabrielle was truly a piece of art in this story. From her ever growing relationship with Charli, to her struggles with trying to get pregnant, and then how she was with the little one in the later half of the book. You see a somewhat different side of her from who she appeared as in the first book, yet she feels like the same person she's always been/meant to be. I will forever be grateful for her presence in this series.
Alex is truly one of the greatest fathers in literature, or at least I think so. Someone else mentioned it in their review but the line where Charli said that she jumped out of a really tall tree, or something like that, and his response to it is essentially the essence of their relationship and truly one of the greatest parts of the series. My favorite part about him in this story was seeing just how much HE believed in magic, not just Charli. The lavender on the curtains? My god, I just about fainted from how cute he is.
Now, Adam and Charli. I feel they should be put together in this review, don't you? Absolutely loved the both of them in this entire book, honestly. I know everyone has gone on about how they wanted to strangle him in some parts but I just can't say that. It was easy to get frustrated with him in Second Hearts because we weren't in his head for that book, but with this one, the was harder. I can't say I was personally all happy about some decisions he made but I can't judge him for his reasoning behind them. It's easy to look at things from Charli's perspective, but I was keen to remember to see his side of things as well. That's why there was never a moment I didn't enjoy him in this story. He was beautifully flawed, as well as Charli, and it made them real. That's all I ever ask for from stories: real characters. Charli has seriously grown into a woman with this book and I have to say I'm so incredibly proud of her. Alex raised the most amazing, beautiful little girl and her magic will forever live inside of me. I was extremely proud of her for being able to recognize and demand what she deserved, as well as finally realizing that she didn't NEED Adam. She could live without him, but that's not what she wanted. In the end, we're left with a happy picture being painted. I know that if I saw the final piece, it'd be brilliantly magical.
*SPOILER ALERT HERE*
I have to say, the pregnancy threw me off. I generally don't like when pregnancies pop up unexpectedly like that for young couples in stories but the author did a fantastic job with it. I couldn't help but fall in love with Bridget the second she was born. It's still weird, trying to wrap my head around Charli being a mother because she seems to whimsical and carefree for that but I was absolutely stunned by how well it was written.
The switching between Adam and Charli point of views was a little frustrating sometimes. I almost wished it was just Charli's point of view - keyword being almost - but then realized I loved the insight into Adam's head. It's what made me understand him more and where he was coming from with a lot of his decisions.
The story of Adam and Charli was magical. I can't think of anything better to say than that. Thank you for giving us all a little piece of magic for our lives. I'll be sure to give these stories to my kids, if I ever have any in the future of course.
I had no doubts, before I even read the story, that it was going to tie up Adam & Charli perfectly. They would find their happily ever afters, even if it wasn't going to be how I know every reader secretly wants it to be. Magic rules over all, but if you don't truly believe in it, how can it?
I think for this particular story, it's best to just talk about the characters and how they've grown since the first story because it's my favorite part about the series. If you haven't read the book, you might not want to read this review. But proceed with caution, just in case.
I loved all of the side characters in this. We had some surprises, some not such surprises. The Beautifuls were truly smile worthy. I don't say laugh worthy, but smile worthy. Take that how you will. I think Flynn was an interesting character, though he doesn't appear all that much. I absolutely adored Trieste. She was a nice treat for Adam when he needed it.
Ryan, my dear. I have truly fallen in love with him now, there's no doubt about that. At first, I was surprised at how his stay in Piper's Cove turned out but then I wasn't really. I giggled with glee over his first encounter with Alex and was absolutely swooning over their relationship as it went on. It's those kinds of wonderful relationships between siblings in law (is that the right term?) that make me smile. It's great how he was there for Charli when Adam couldn't be.
Gabrielle was truly a piece of art in this story. From her ever growing relationship with Charli, to her struggles with trying to get pregnant, and then how she was with the little one in the later half of the book. You see a somewhat different side of her from who she appeared as in the first book, yet she feels like the same person she's always been/meant to be. I will forever be grateful for her presence in this series.
Alex is truly one of the greatest fathers in literature, or at least I think so. Someone else mentioned it in their review but the line where Charli said that she jumped out of a really tall tree, or something like that, and his response to it is essentially the essence of their relationship and truly one of the greatest parts of the series. My favorite part about him in this story was seeing just how much HE believed in magic, not just Charli. The lavender on the curtains? My god, I just about fainted from how cute he is.
Now, Adam and Charli. I feel they should be put together in this review, don't you? Absolutely loved the both of them in this entire book, honestly. I know everyone has gone on about how they wanted to strangle him in some parts but I just can't say that. It was easy to get frustrated with him in Second Hearts because we weren't in his head for that book, but with this one, the was harder. I can't say I was personally all happy about some decisions he made but I can't judge him for his reasoning behind them. It's easy to look at things from Charli's perspective, but I was keen to remember to see his side of things as well. That's why there was never a moment I didn't enjoy him in this story. He was beautifully flawed, as well as Charli, and it made them real. That's all I ever ask for from stories: real characters. Charli has seriously grown into a woman with this book and I have to say I'm so incredibly proud of her. Alex raised the most amazing, beautiful little girl and her magic will forever live inside of me. I was extremely proud of her for being able to recognize and demand what she deserved, as well as finally realizing that she didn't NEED Adam. She could live without him, but that's not what she wanted. In the end, we're left with a happy picture being painted. I know that if I saw the final piece, it'd be brilliantly magical.
*SPOILER ALERT HERE*
I have to say, the pregnancy threw me off. I generally don't like when pregnancies pop up unexpectedly like that for young couples in stories but the author did a fantastic job with it. I couldn't help but fall in love with Bridget the second she was born. It's still weird, trying to wrap my head around Charli being a mother because she seems to whimsical and carefree for that but I was absolutely stunned by how well it was written.
The switching between Adam and Charli point of views was a little frustrating sometimes. I almost wished it was just Charli's point of view - keyword being almost - but then realized I loved the insight into Adam's head. It's what made me understand him more and where he was coming from with a lot of his decisions.
The story of Adam and Charli was magical. I can't think of anything better to say than that. Thank you for giving us all a little piece of magic for our lives. I'll be sure to give these stories to my kids, if I ever have any in the future of course.
March 11, 2017
I don't mind the story here but it is no where near being worthy of 5 stars like many other people have given it.
I also have no idea how it spans 9 books. I'm a bit over the back and forwards of Charli & Adam and Pipers Cove & NYC already, let alone another 6 books.
I'm unsure if I will read the rest of them or not.
I also have no idea how it spans 9 books. I'm a bit over the back and forwards of Charli & Adam and Pipers Cove & NYC already, let alone another 6 books.
I'm unsure if I will read the rest of them or not.
November 9, 2013
See more of my reviews at www.girlbooklove.com!
Writing reviews for my favorite book is the hardest thing. Like, i’ve put this off for days because every time I think about writing this review…I get nervous!!! I know I can’t possibly put into words how much I love this series and the new book, Storm Shells, but i’m going to try! Especially since it’s getting released in the next 48ish hours! I know that the release date is November 11th, but on itunes it will be released on the 10th. So depending on where you live and what device you use, start looking for it soon!
So back to my review… I was really upset at the end of Second Hearts. Charli had left New York, and even though this was a good decision, my heart still hurt for her and Adam. Adam was such a dumb guy…I wanted to smack him upside the head! How could he just let her walk away?! Didn’t he know she was the best thing that had ever happened to him?! So Charli heads back to Kaimte, where Mitchell is. She finds some solace in the beach and her old friend, but after a week decides to head back home to Pipers Cove. Upon arriving, she finds Gabi has moved in with Alex and they are struggling with issues of their own. Charli now feels out of place in her childhood home and decides to move into the cottage.
Adam is staying with Ryan, his brother, because he couldn’t bear all the reminders of Charli in their apartment. It takes him three weeks of being miserable before he decides to go after her.
In Pipers Cove they are faced with their true love for each other, but also that they haven’t found out a way to make their lives work together. They must both be willing to sacrifice and change their own plans, which they’ve never been willing to do before now. It is so heart wrenching to see them struggling with these decisions. Will they be able to find common ground?
This whole series is incredible, and I highly recommend you start from the beginning. GJ has this insane talent to write such relatable, believable characters, you can’t help but be absorbed into this story. She weaves this element of magic and La La Land into this series, you fall in love with the way that Charli lives her life so completely. When you’re done you can’t help but to be more like Charli, enjoying life to its fullest and being honest, courageous and passionate.
Adam, Ryan, Alex and Gabi are all in this book. I love Ryan and can’t wait for his to get his own story. Also, Alex and Gabi have their own book now too! It’s called Sand Jewels and is available for free on itunes. For all you kindle users, if you have an iphone you can download ibooks and read it on there!
I can’t tell you how much I love this book. It is my most favorite series of all time! You must go read it!
Writing reviews for my favorite book is the hardest thing. Like, i’ve put this off for days because every time I think about writing this review…I get nervous!!! I know I can’t possibly put into words how much I love this series and the new book, Storm Shells, but i’m going to try! Especially since it’s getting released in the next 48ish hours! I know that the release date is November 11th, but on itunes it will be released on the 10th. So depending on where you live and what device you use, start looking for it soon!
So back to my review… I was really upset at the end of Second Hearts. Charli had left New York, and even though this was a good decision, my heart still hurt for her and Adam. Adam was such a dumb guy…I wanted to smack him upside the head! How could he just let her walk away?! Didn’t he know she was the best thing that had ever happened to him?! So Charli heads back to Kaimte, where Mitchell is. She finds some solace in the beach and her old friend, but after a week decides to head back home to Pipers Cove. Upon arriving, she finds Gabi has moved in with Alex and they are struggling with issues of their own. Charli now feels out of place in her childhood home and decides to move into the cottage.
Adam is staying with Ryan, his brother, because he couldn’t bear all the reminders of Charli in their apartment. It takes him three weeks of being miserable before he decides to go after her.
In Pipers Cove they are faced with their true love for each other, but also that they haven’t found out a way to make their lives work together. They must both be willing to sacrifice and change their own plans, which they’ve never been willing to do before now. It is so heart wrenching to see them struggling with these decisions. Will they be able to find common ground?
This whole series is incredible, and I highly recommend you start from the beginning. GJ has this insane talent to write such relatable, believable characters, you can’t help but be absorbed into this story. She weaves this element of magic and La La Land into this series, you fall in love with the way that Charli lives her life so completely. When you’re done you can’t help but to be more like Charli, enjoying life to its fullest and being honest, courageous and passionate.
Adam, Ryan, Alex and Gabi are all in this book. I love Ryan and can’t wait for his to get his own story. Also, Alex and Gabi have their own book now too! It’s called Sand Jewels and is available for free on itunes. For all you kindle users, if you have an iphone you can download ibooks and read it on there!
I can’t tell you how much I love this book. It is my most favorite series of all time! You must go read it!
March 4, 2014
Book Review- Storm Shells by G.J. Walker-Smith
In the final installment of the Wishes Series, Charli goes home to Piper Cove. She is devastated that Adam lied to her about never leaving New York. She still loves him and knows she is on her own until he can figure out how to love her.
She is happy to be home and see Alex, but when she finds out Nicole is home she wants nothing to do with her. She tries to move on with her life. Adam shows up when he is on break from school. He has to see her and they spend the time together like they haven’t ever been apart.
When they learn that Charli is pregnant, Adam panics. He doesn’t want a baby and wants her to get an abortion. Charli is devastated and knows that Adam will never be able to give her what she needs. She tells him to leave and let her go. Adam returns to New York broken hearted and guilt ridden. He tries to do as she said and files for divorce. He finishes his degree but the life he had all planned out no longer is the one he wants.
Charli has been trying to move on but is keeping a huge secret of her own. She is afraid of the fallout when Adam finds out. When he shows up on her doorstep ready to be there with her, he is shocked at what he finds.
This book was exactly as it should have been. I traveled the journey that the author presented with the first book. It was an emotional trip but rewarding in the end. I loved Charli and Adam’s happy ending. I read all three books in quick succession because I had to know what happened. I was borderline obsessed which is a mighty feat for any author to get me to be. The ending was what I needed after reading the first two parts. This author has now been added to my favorites list. I would recommend this series to anyone who likes a great love story. I give this book a huge 5 out of 5.
In the final installment of the Wishes Series, Charli goes home to Piper Cove. She is devastated that Adam lied to her about never leaving New York. She still loves him and knows she is on her own until he can figure out how to love her.
She is happy to be home and see Alex, but when she finds out Nicole is home she wants nothing to do with her. She tries to move on with her life. Adam shows up when he is on break from school. He has to see her and they spend the time together like they haven’t ever been apart.
When they learn that Charli is pregnant, Adam panics. He doesn’t want a baby and wants her to get an abortion. Charli is devastated and knows that Adam will never be able to give her what she needs. She tells him to leave and let her go. Adam returns to New York broken hearted and guilt ridden. He tries to do as she said and files for divorce. He finishes his degree but the life he had all planned out no longer is the one he wants.
Charli has been trying to move on but is keeping a huge secret of her own. She is afraid of the fallout when Adam finds out. When he shows up on her doorstep ready to be there with her, he is shocked at what he finds.
This book was exactly as it should have been. I traveled the journey that the author presented with the first book. It was an emotional trip but rewarding in the end. I loved Charli and Adam’s happy ending. I read all three books in quick succession because I had to know what happened. I was borderline obsessed which is a mighty feat for any author to get me to be. The ending was what I needed after reading the first two parts. This author has now been added to my favorites list. I would recommend this series to anyone who likes a great love story. I give this book a huge 5 out of 5.
March 31, 2016
Phew. STORM SHELLS was quite the emotional ride. Like it's namesake we had some pretty wild and rough seas but nonetheless by the end the skies had cleared and the sun came out to shine.
Despite the focus on Charli & Adam's happily ever after, and the bumps along the way, I have to mention how impressed I was with Walker-Smith's secondary and even tertiary characters. Some were so colourful or ridiculous or wonderful that they all but leapt off the page they felt so real. I loved how creative she was in shaping them; some people who we thought were villains turned out to be the opposite, and some we thought had been redeemed or were worth redemption were, in fact, not. My one complaint would be Trieste. That was one character I neither understood nor could figure out her purpose beyond being filler.
Sadly, this would be the third book where I really wondered about Adam. I spent most the book hating him, as I was right to, and the other half wishing Charli could do without him. Which was why I was so proud of her realization. That her need had mellowed to want. Because as happy as I was when they got together, as they made it work and found their way back to what was always inevitable, I really disliked him. Or maybe just New York Adam. They were certainly different people and I really struggled to find any kind of sympathy for him. That being said, every scene between him and Bridget made me rather gooey inside. The adorableness was off the charts.
But as happy as I am, as much as I've enjoyed Walker-Smith's tale of second thoughts, fairies, five minutes and more, I'm equally happy to move on (even if it's only for a one book break) and find out what's in store for Ryan. While Alex had been my favourite throughout the series, and still remains near the top, it's the older Décarie who has stolen my heart. But I guess I'll let Bente have him.
Despite the focus on Charli & Adam's happily ever after, and the bumps along the way, I have to mention how impressed I was with Walker-Smith's secondary and even tertiary characters. Some were so colourful or ridiculous or wonderful that they all but leapt off the page they felt so real. I loved how creative she was in shaping them; some people who we thought were villains turned out to be the opposite, and some we thought had been redeemed or were worth redemption were, in fact, not. My one complaint would be Trieste. That was one character I neither understood nor could figure out her purpose beyond being filler.
Sadly, this would be the third book where I really wondered about Adam. I spent most the book hating him, as I was right to, and the other half wishing Charli could do without him. Which was why I was so proud of her realization. That her need had mellowed to want. Because as happy as I was when they got together, as they made it work and found their way back to what was always inevitable, I really disliked him. Or maybe just New York Adam. They were certainly different people and I really struggled to find any kind of sympathy for him. That being said, every scene between him and Bridget made me rather gooey inside. The adorableness was off the charts.
But as happy as I am, as much as I've enjoyed Walker-Smith's tale of second thoughts, fairies, five minutes and more, I'm equally happy to move on (even if it's only for a one book break) and find out what's in store for Ryan. While Alex had been my favourite throughout the series, and still remains near the top, it's the older Décarie who has stolen my heart. But I guess I'll let Bente have him.
November 11, 2013
This book surprised me. I totally expected Adam to chase Charli back to Piper's Cove. I did not expect it to go down the way it did. At times I wanted to strangle Adam and then turn around and strangle Charli for putting up with him. I know it is "true love," but she held on for her happy ending long after most people would have let go. She does live in La La Land, so I guess I understand. Of course I wanted them to work it out, but I don't know how I would have gotten past Adam's betrayal. Of course, he punished himself plenty for it. As always, I love Ryan and want more of him. I was excited to hear the author plans on writing at least one book (hopefully not just a novella) telling his story. Friendship doesn't seem to go well for the main characters. Everyone's close friends seem to betray them. I guess it highlights how untrustworthy people can be and how much it hurts when it is the people close to us that let us down. I'm glad how everything wrapped up and am sorry it is over.
November 13, 2013
This was one amazing story. I think this was the best book out of the series. This story had Adam and Charli grow up and make decisions that were painful. It also led to them learning about them self and had them do a lot of discovery along the way. There were moments where I was crying and laughing so hard I couldn't stop. There were also moments where I wanted to smack Adam upside the head for making stupid choices that could not be forgiven but only to have him have a coming to Jesus moment and come to his senses. Charli, as whimsical as she was she grew up a lot in this book.
Storm Shells is a fantastic read and I am so happy that it finally came out. All those teasers just weren't enough. I loved the magic behind Adam and Charli's relationship.
Storm Shells is a fantastic read and I am so happy that it finally came out. All those teasers just weren't enough. I loved the magic behind Adam and Charli's relationship.
November 11, 2013
A few spoilers .. don't read this unless you've read this book!!
♡
Charli and Adams story has been a beautiful struggle. I'm glad boy wonder finally pulled his head out of his ass .. but I'm a little disappointed in how the story has ended especially considering this is their last book! There should have been more chapters about their New York life or at least another book on their New York life .. I'm curious as to how Charli with handle it this time around!! And what about Nic?? Is she still in Jail?? How long will she stay there?? And Ethan .. did he really leave just like that?? Soo many unanswered questions!!
♡
Charli and Adams story has been a beautiful struggle. I'm glad boy wonder finally pulled his head out of his ass .. but I'm a little disappointed in how the story has ended especially considering this is their last book! There should have been more chapters about their New York life or at least another book on their New York life .. I'm curious as to how Charli with handle it this time around!! And what about Nic?? Is she still in Jail?? How long will she stay there?? And Ethan .. did he really leave just like that?? Soo many unanswered questions!!
March 2, 2014
I was really worried this series was going to end unhappily and I was going to cry and cry and cry and curse the fairies for not making Charli and Adam have a happy ending. And then, the picture fell, the bridge was made, and everything fell together. It wasn't the end yet :) I loved this series. Just enough drama to keep me interested in every single chapter and enough magic to last a lifetime.
Read
February 3, 2024So so good. Can't wait for the next one :')
January 8, 2018
Il doppio pov ha dato una svolta alla storia ❤
February 23, 2025
Ugh. Their happy ending will always make me happy
November 23, 2013
I am one of "us" who was captivated by Charli Blake, her chutzpah, her disarming naivete in "Saving Wishes," the first book of this trilogy. I happily read "Second Hearts," the second in the series. It wasn't as strong a story as "Saving Wishes" nor was it as well-honed: it clearly needed additional (structural) work however I was able to enjoy reading Charli mature, eventually learn to love herself as much as she loves Adam. As sad as the ending was (in terms of Charli leaving Adam after his repeated sophistry and after he broke every single promise he'd made her), I also found it tremendously uplifting to read of a young woman who, finally!, did not lose herself and her dreams in the name of Being in a Relationship. Yea for Charli!
So I was pleased when "Storm Shells" was released, only it was clearly released way too soon -- it read more as a beta than a polished and ready-for-the-masses publication. "Storm Shells," the version I purchased in November, 2013 on Amazon, came across as a rough draft both in terms of copyediting but much more importantly in terms of overall story editing and cohesion. I found it ultimately disappointing (as in how it was written) and a bit of a mess.
The author employs for the first time in this series alternating viewpoints, with every other chapter devoted to either Charli or her husband, Adam. Oddly, Adam felt much less fleshed-out and real in his first person than when described from Charli's perspective in the previous two books. Esp in "Saving Wishes" I could easily find how incandescent Adam found Charli, how enchanted he was by her, and that was merely through the dialogue the author ascribed him. In "Storm Shells," he was just ... beige, milquetoast. The young man who was captivated by Charli in "Saving Wishes" and still so in love with her that he went to the prevaricating lengths he did to keep her in "Second Hearts" was missing here. And that's too bad. Additionally, everything about his student protege, Trieste Kincaid, and her unrequited crush, Felix, should have been cut from the book. It added nothing, no illumination into Adam's life, into his thought process(-es), into his character, and it certainly didn't move the storyline *at all*. A pointless distraction.
Charli also appears to have lost a lot of her luster in this final installment. The girl I found so delightful in "Saving Wishes" is nearly completely absent here; in her place is a boring, entitled young woman who does **nothing**. She still has her fairy tales, but honest-to-goodness, she clearly sits around all day, every day, doing nothing. She doesn't work, she doesn't volunteer. She doesn't read. She doesn't explore. She doesn't create. She is happy to use Adam's credit card for her long-term rental car. I found her sadly boring and the admiration I'd had for her quickly dissipated. In all fairness, I became disappointed with her in the second book, "Second Hearts," when she was living in one of the most accessible and cosmopolitan cities in the world, Manhattan, and she again did nothing. She didn't attend New School and study photography or writing, so she could further her two passions. She didn't volunteer, other than evidently attending charity functions at the behest of Adam and his High Society parents, and really, those don't count. She waitressed for a bit and took a few photos, but that was it during her time in NYC. What a waste! And it continued as a waste in "Storm Shells." The girl with such promise really fizzled out.
The author did let us revisit many powerful secondary / tertiary characters from earlier, like The Beautifuls (mean girls from Charli's youth), Ryan (Adam's big brother and proprietor of the restaurants where Charli worked in NYC), Nicole (Charli's duplicitous best friend who, along with her no-good boyfriend, absconded with $13,000 of Charli's money), and to a lesser and disappointing extent, Alex (Charli's father) and Gabi, aka The Parisienne (Charli's HS French teacher and paramour of Alex). I'd have loved to spend much more time with them, with Gabi and Alex, and the end of "Storm Shells" leaves us with a tantalizing glimpse of their future. It would have been nice to be more involved in their getting to that point (and beyond, truthfully).
At least half of what currently exists as "Storm Shells" could (and I'd argue should) be cut; a significant portion of what remains should be expanded, esp in terms of actual dialogue. The ending, which was far too precious and clunky, should have actually continued to follow that transition because, let's face it, **that's** where the meat of the matter is.
Ultimately and because of the affection I had for "Saving Wishes" and lesser affection for "Second Hearts," this book was "okay." If I didn't feel fondness for Charli, Alex and Gabi, I doubt I would have finished this book.
So I was pleased when "Storm Shells" was released, only it was clearly released way too soon -- it read more as a beta than a polished and ready-for-the-masses publication. "Storm Shells," the version I purchased in November, 2013 on Amazon, came across as a rough draft both in terms of copyediting but much more importantly in terms of overall story editing and cohesion. I found it ultimately disappointing (as in how it was written) and a bit of a mess.
The author employs for the first time in this series alternating viewpoints, with every other chapter devoted to either Charli or her husband, Adam. Oddly, Adam felt much less fleshed-out and real in his first person than when described from Charli's perspective in the previous two books. Esp in "Saving Wishes" I could easily find how incandescent Adam found Charli, how enchanted he was by her, and that was merely through the dialogue the author ascribed him. In "Storm Shells," he was just ... beige, milquetoast. The young man who was captivated by Charli in "Saving Wishes" and still so in love with her that he went to the prevaricating lengths he did to keep her in "Second Hearts" was missing here. And that's too bad. Additionally, everything about his student protege, Trieste Kincaid, and her unrequited crush, Felix, should have been cut from the book. It added nothing, no illumination into Adam's life, into his thought process(-es), into his character, and it certainly didn't move the storyline *at all*. A pointless distraction.
Charli also appears to have lost a lot of her luster in this final installment. The girl I found so delightful in "Saving Wishes" is nearly completely absent here; in her place is a boring, entitled young woman who does **nothing**. She still has her fairy tales, but honest-to-goodness, she clearly sits around all day, every day, doing nothing. She doesn't work, she doesn't volunteer. She doesn't read. She doesn't explore. She doesn't create. She is happy to use Adam's credit card for her long-term rental car. I found her sadly boring and the admiration I'd had for her quickly dissipated. In all fairness, I became disappointed with her in the second book, "Second Hearts," when she was living in one of the most accessible and cosmopolitan cities in the world, Manhattan, and she again did nothing. She didn't attend New School and study photography or writing, so she could further her two passions. She didn't volunteer, other than evidently attending charity functions at the behest of Adam and his High Society parents, and really, those don't count. She waitressed for a bit and took a few photos, but that was it during her time in NYC. What a waste! And it continued as a waste in "Storm Shells." The girl with such promise really fizzled out.
The author did let us revisit many powerful secondary / tertiary characters from earlier, like The Beautifuls (mean girls from Charli's youth), Ryan (Adam's big brother and proprietor of the restaurants where Charli worked in NYC), Nicole (Charli's duplicitous best friend who, along with her no-good boyfriend, absconded with $13,000 of Charli's money), and to a lesser and disappointing extent, Alex (Charli's father) and Gabi, aka The Parisienne (Charli's HS French teacher and paramour of Alex). I'd have loved to spend much more time with them, with Gabi and Alex, and the end of "Storm Shells" leaves us with a tantalizing glimpse of their future. It would have been nice to be more involved in their getting to that point (and beyond, truthfully).
At least half of what currently exists as "Storm Shells" could (and I'd argue should) be cut; a significant portion of what remains should be expanded, esp in terms of actual dialogue. The ending, which was far too precious and clunky, should have actually continued to follow that transition because, let's face it, **that's** where the meat of the matter is.
Ultimately and because of the affection I had for "Saving Wishes" and lesser affection for "Second Hearts," this book was "okay." If I didn't feel fondness for Charli, Alex and Gabi, I doubt I would have finished this book.
September 17, 2020
I just read the most beautiful book
Adam's and Charli's story has finally reached its conclusion. It was a wonderful journey with much love, pain, hope, fairies, and so much magic. Storm Shells starts shortly after the end of the previous book. After leaving New York Charli visits Mitchell, and he suggests Charli to go home because it has been over 3 years since Charli saw her father. This is my truth: I can read about Charli for eternity, I would love to see her grow old and accompany her in her last days. I feel a kinship to her that I never did before I met her. Now I need to point out that I know Adam is not perfect, and I would even say that he is an asshole, but I love him. I can't explain it, and maybe only Charli and I can understand our love for him.
“True love is still true, even if you can’t live it the way you want to”
One of the reasons I'm so happy after reading this book is because I finally saw Alex again. He is my man. He's the guy I hope to find one day, his relationship with Charli is delightful, and it is impossible not to see his love. I was so happy to go back to Australia, and I want to yell to the world that this book was super funny. I was laughing out loud to some really good remarks and smiling at the banter.
"I wasn’t outraged. The only plans Charli ever made were of the criminal variety."
I've been wondering why no more people are raving about this series, and I've just realized that the ones that love this stories are wonder seekers. I love the romance and the family relationships, but that magic of blind belief is something that no everybody knows. Dear G.J. Walker-Smith, I learnt so much from Charli. The meaning of her words are scarred in my soul.
Thank you,
from a small town girl, three hours from the capital of Colombia (South America).
Adam's and Charli's story has finally reached its conclusion. It was a wonderful journey with much love, pain, hope, fairies, and so much magic. Storm Shells starts shortly after the end of the previous book. After leaving New York Charli visits Mitchell, and he suggests Charli to go home because it has been over 3 years since Charli saw her father. This is my truth: I can read about Charli for eternity, I would love to see her grow old and accompany her in her last days. I feel a kinship to her that I never did before I met her. Now I need to point out that I know Adam is not perfect, and I would even say that he is an asshole, but I love him. I can't explain it, and maybe only Charli and I can understand our love for him.
“True love is still true, even if you can’t live it the way you want to”
One of the reasons I'm so happy after reading this book is because I finally saw Alex again. He is my man. He's the guy I hope to find one day, his relationship with Charli is delightful, and it is impossible not to see his love. I was so happy to go back to Australia, and I want to yell to the world that this book was super funny. I was laughing out loud to some really good remarks and smiling at the banter.
"I wasn’t outraged. The only plans Charli ever made were of the criminal variety."
I've been wondering why no more people are raving about this series, and I've just realized that the ones that love this stories are wonder seekers. I love the romance and the family relationships, but that magic of blind belief is something that no everybody knows. Dear G.J. Walker-Smith, I learnt so much from Charli. The meaning of her words are scarred in my soul.
Thank you,
from a small town girl, three hours from the capital of Colombia (South America).
September 4, 2014
Wow!! This one was so much more emotional.
Charli and Adam are hopelessly in love but sometimes things don't always go as planned. Decisions need to be made and no matter what hearts are going to be broken.
I loved this book. The story line just keeps getting better and better. It totally consumes you. This is so beautifully written. It's full of laughs, cries, sadness, heartbreak, betrayal, love and magic.
It's nice to see how well the characters develop and grow from one book to the next. Some take more time than others but G.J. Walker-Smith conveys those growth and emotions from page to page so effortlessly. I felt the emotions Adam and Charli were going through.
We also get to see another side of some other characters, such as Nicole and more of Ryan. I absolutely could not believe what a horrible friend Nicole turned out to be. That was so unexpected. And Ryan.... wow! I liked him from when he first came into the picture but he keeps slipping his way into my heart. I love that although Charli and Ryan are always teasing and stirring each other up they have such a special bond. And Ryan is a really great support for her. He doesn't sugarcoat anything and that's exactly what Charli needs sometimes.
As I got closer and closer to the end, I knew that this book would definitely stay with me for a while and this series will be one of those MUST re-reads. I laughed, I cried and I fell more and more in love with Charli and Adam.
Charli and Adam are hopelessly in love but sometimes things don't always go as planned. Decisions need to be made and no matter what hearts are going to be broken.
I loved this book. The story line just keeps getting better and better. It totally consumes you. This is so beautifully written. It's full of laughs, cries, sadness, heartbreak, betrayal, love and magic.
It's nice to see how well the characters develop and grow from one book to the next. Some take more time than others but G.J. Walker-Smith conveys those growth and emotions from page to page so effortlessly. I felt the emotions Adam and Charli were going through.
We also get to see another side of some other characters, such as Nicole and more of Ryan. I absolutely could not believe what a horrible friend Nicole turned out to be. That was so unexpected. And Ryan.... wow! I liked him from when he first came into the picture but he keeps slipping his way into my heart. I love that although Charli and Ryan are always teasing and stirring each other up they have such a special bond. And Ryan is a really great support for her. He doesn't sugarcoat anything and that's exactly what Charli needs sometimes.
As I got closer and closer to the end, I knew that this book would definitely stay with me for a while and this series will be one of those MUST re-reads. I laughed, I cried and I fell more and more in love with Charli and Adam.
June 7, 2014
Charli ist wieder zurück in Pipers Cove... und nicht nur sie: auch ihr Vater und 'die Pariserin' und erstaunlicherweise auch Nicki.
In ihrem alten Heim wird es eng, da Gabrielle bei Alex eingezogen ist. Kurzerhand zieht Charli in das Cottage der Französischlehrerin.
Adam hat Ferien und da sie nicht wirklich getrennt sind, besucht er Charli. Alles ist wieder so wunderbar, wie zuvor, da entdeckt Charli, dass sie schwanger ist. Adam ist entsetzt und will es nicht.
Unsere magische Charli nimmt das nicht leicht und schickt Adam nicht nur nach Hause. sondern endgültig in die Wüste...endgültig?
Ich finde es faszinierend, dass auch reiche Menschen, die sich locker für jeden Wochentag eine andere Nanny leisten könnten, das Problem der Schwangerschaft genauso lösen, wie arme...
Gut, dass Charli das nicht mit sich machen lässt. Ehrlich gesagt, frage ich mich, wie Adam ernsthaft von seiner kleinen Feenfrau dachte, sie hätte das Baby abgetrieben.
Aber egal - es ist trotzdem spannend zu beobachten, wie Adam langsam zu Sinnen kommt und Ryan sich um die schwangere Schwägerin kümmert.
Und endlich das Happy End von Charli und Adam.
Ich bin schon auf den 4. Band gespannt, der sich um Ryan und Bridget dreht. Ich hoffe auf viele geladene Dialoge!
In ihrem alten Heim wird es eng, da Gabrielle bei Alex eingezogen ist. Kurzerhand zieht Charli in das Cottage der Französischlehrerin.
Adam hat Ferien und da sie nicht wirklich getrennt sind, besucht er Charli. Alles ist wieder so wunderbar, wie zuvor, da entdeckt Charli, dass sie schwanger ist. Adam ist entsetzt und will es nicht.
Unsere magische Charli nimmt das nicht leicht und schickt Adam nicht nur nach Hause. sondern endgültig in die Wüste...endgültig?
Ich finde es faszinierend, dass auch reiche Menschen, die sich locker für jeden Wochentag eine andere Nanny leisten könnten, das Problem der Schwangerschaft genauso lösen, wie arme...
Gut, dass Charli das nicht mit sich machen lässt. Ehrlich gesagt, frage ich mich, wie Adam ernsthaft von seiner kleinen Feenfrau dachte, sie hätte das Baby abgetrieben.
Aber egal - es ist trotzdem spannend zu beobachten, wie Adam langsam zu Sinnen kommt und Ryan sich um die schwangere Schwägerin kümmert.
Und endlich das Happy End von Charli und Adam.
Ich bin schon auf den 4. Band gespannt, der sich um Ryan und Bridget dreht. Ich hoffe auf viele geladene Dialoge!
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