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Taylor-Made #1
A Taylor-Made Life
They lived the life they were given; they loved the life they made.
Cheerleader Taylor Smith doesn’t want to die a virgin. Unfortunately, if the terminally-ill leukemia patient doesn't find a lover or a stem-cell match within months, her fear will become reality. When her cancer mentor is revealed to be a hottie entrepreneur from California, it seems fate might finally be on her side.
Tech-geek Gavin Taylor has everything he ever wanted, except someone to grieve for him when he's gone. With his melanoma cancer beyond the help of his riches, he agrees to participate in a cancer patient mentoring program where he's matched with a dying teen from Texas. Despite his immediate attraction, the Silicon Valley whiz intends only to provide friendship and happy memories to the beautiful, young woman who is determined to win his love.
When it's discovered that his frozen sperm and her harvested eggs could lead to a cure, Taylor's mother offers to be a surrogate. And Gavin must decide if he can risk the heart he has never given and a child he'll never know to a girl he just met.
Cheerleader Taylor Smith doesn’t want to die a virgin. Unfortunately, if the terminally-ill leukemia patient doesn't find a lover or a stem-cell match within months, her fear will become reality. When her cancer mentor is revealed to be a hottie entrepreneur from California, it seems fate might finally be on her side.
Tech-geek Gavin Taylor has everything he ever wanted, except someone to grieve for him when he's gone. With his melanoma cancer beyond the help of his riches, he agrees to participate in a cancer patient mentoring program where he's matched with a dying teen from Texas. Despite his immediate attraction, the Silicon Valley whiz intends only to provide friendship and happy memories to the beautiful, young woman who is determined to win his love.
When it's discovered that his frozen sperm and her harvested eggs could lead to a cure, Taylor's mother offers to be a surrogate. And Gavin must decide if he can risk the heart he has never given and a child he'll never know to a girl he just met.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 8, 2013
8 people are currently reading
1414 people want to read
About the author
Kary Rader
14 books132 followersKary Rader is a stay-at-home mother of three, avid reader and slave to the characters and worlds inside her head.
Always creative, she’s drawn to stories with fantastical worlds and creatures. With a little bit of magic and divine guidance, there isn’t anything that can’t be accomplished. And it’s the power of words that creates and destroys.
Vanquishing evil and injustice while finding eternal love in the process is all in a day’s work. And with the help of her critique partners and master cartographer imaginary places come to life.
Let the fantasy begin…
Always creative, she’s drawn to stories with fantastical worlds and creatures. With a little bit of magic and divine guidance, there isn’t anything that can’t be accomplished. And it’s the power of words that creates and destroys.
Vanquishing evil and injustice while finding eternal love in the process is all in a day’s work. And with the help of her critique partners and master cartographer imaginary places come to life.
Let the fantasy begin…
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April 13, 2015
"Cancer can take away all of my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul."
----Jim Valvano, an American college basketball player, coach, and broadcaster
Kary Rader, an American author, pens a heart-wrenching and tear-jerking story called, A Taylor-Made Life which is a sad love story between two cancer patients and how they cope with their terminal illness, life and relationships.
PS: Please keep a box of tissue in hand before reading this book.
Synopsis:
They lived the life they were given; they loved the life they made.
Cheerleader Taylor Smith doesn’t want to die a virgin. Unfortunately, if the terminally-ill leukemia patient doesn't find a lover or a stem-cell match within months, her fear will become reality. When her cancer mentor is revealed to be a hottie entrepreneur from California, it seems fate might finally be on her side.
Tech-geek Gavin Taylor has everything he ever wanted, except someone to grieve for him when he's gone. With his melanoma cancer beyond the help of his riches, he agrees to participate in a cancer patient mentoring program where he's matched with a dying teen from Texas. Despite his immediate attraction, the Silicon Valley whiz intends only to provide friendship and happy memories to the beautiful, young woman who is determined to win his love.
When it's discovered that his frozen sperm and her harvested eggs could lead to a cure, Taylor's mother offers to be a surrogate. And Gavin must decide if he can risk the heart he has never given and a child he'll never know to a girl he just met.
This story somehow reminded me of April's story from Chasing Life TV series, of how she froze her eggs or how she tried to get a bone-marrow transplant. Anyways moving on to the book, I must say that I never read anything so emotional where without playing the cancer card, the author made us sympathize with the characters.
Taylor is a 17year old teenager, a former cheerleader and currently leading her sad and lonely cancer-stricken life with not much fun or love. She fears that she will die a virgin, so as a result she joins a cancer mentor program where her mentor happens to be one of the most eligible bachelor- Gavin- a 25year old techie, filthy rich from his software empire, who only dates famous celebs and currently leading his cancer-stricken life. He fears that he will die without sharing his heart with a woman who will only love him not his legacy or money. As a result he joins a cancer mentoring program without much interest where he happens to be a mentor of a 17year old girl. On the other hand, Taylor has googled everything about this hot techie and she will do everything to get closer to Gavin's heart, no matter what!
What I instantly loved about this book is that from the very beginning the author didn't turn this cancer story into something pitiful or didn't try to make us feel sorry for the characters because of their cancer. The story is laced with sadness and with a lots of fun moments like when Taylor flirted with Gavin and how Gavin used to took her every single as a kid who is happy to be around him. From the very beginning, the characters tried to move on with their short-span lives by aiming for happiness instead of feeling sorry for themselves. Taylor's determination to get laid before dying and Gavin's hope to find someone who will share love unconditionally. This aspect of trying to find happiness and fighting against all the odds is really brilliant and the author have layered each and every narration with great empathy.
The writing is articulate thus arrested my mind from the very first page. The prose is fast enough and since the author have carefully entwined the plot with humor and sadness, I was engaged till it's very end. The story simply left me heart-broken and mesmerized with the charm of this relationship between Taylor and Gavin. The relationship between Taylor and Gavin moves at a very slow pace, mainly due to Gavin's impression of Taylor being a little girl and he couldn't accept her proposals since he was way too older than her. And that's what kept me glued to the story- the possibility of a relationship within such a short time-span.
The characters draw enough realism from our real lives, like Taylor and Gavin, whom we can meet and see in our every day lives. The author embodies the voice of an17 year old teenage girl, by aptly portraying her fears, excitement when she found out about Gavin as her mentor, her teenage spunk, charm and wit and also her mannerism. Gavin on the other hand, might strike you as a closed book with all the windows of his heart shut as tightly as possible. Moreover, Gavin is featured as the mature guy with all the hot looks, in short, sexy, brooding guy! But when their common interest about a computer game- CROG, brings them together, Gavin opens up, and I eventually feel for his character.
It seems the author have poured her heart into this beautiful love-story which is sad yet very inspiring. Moreover, the author lets us contemplate with the story by portraying the emotions so vividly.
Verdict: Don't miss out this painful yet captivating book, which will uplift your heart with the warmth and with a few drops of tears.
Courtesy: I received a copy of this book for the blog tour.
----Jim Valvano, an American college basketball player, coach, and broadcaster
Kary Rader, an American author, pens a heart-wrenching and tear-jerking story called, A Taylor-Made Life which is a sad love story between two cancer patients and how they cope with their terminal illness, life and relationships.
PS: Please keep a box of tissue in hand before reading this book.
Synopsis:
They lived the life they were given; they loved the life they made.
Cheerleader Taylor Smith doesn’t want to die a virgin. Unfortunately, if the terminally-ill leukemia patient doesn't find a lover or a stem-cell match within months, her fear will become reality. When her cancer mentor is revealed to be a hottie entrepreneur from California, it seems fate might finally be on her side.
Tech-geek Gavin Taylor has everything he ever wanted, except someone to grieve for him when he's gone. With his melanoma cancer beyond the help of his riches, he agrees to participate in a cancer patient mentoring program where he's matched with a dying teen from Texas. Despite his immediate attraction, the Silicon Valley whiz intends only to provide friendship and happy memories to the beautiful, young woman who is determined to win his love.
When it's discovered that his frozen sperm and her harvested eggs could lead to a cure, Taylor's mother offers to be a surrogate. And Gavin must decide if he can risk the heart he has never given and a child he'll never know to a girl he just met.
This story somehow reminded me of April's story from Chasing Life TV series, of how she froze her eggs or how she tried to get a bone-marrow transplant. Anyways moving on to the book, I must say that I never read anything so emotional where without playing the cancer card, the author made us sympathize with the characters.
Taylor is a 17year old teenager, a former cheerleader and currently leading her sad and lonely cancer-stricken life with not much fun or love. She fears that she will die a virgin, so as a result she joins a cancer mentor program where her mentor happens to be one of the most eligible bachelor- Gavin- a 25year old techie, filthy rich from his software empire, who only dates famous celebs and currently leading his cancer-stricken life. He fears that he will die without sharing his heart with a woman who will only love him not his legacy or money. As a result he joins a cancer mentoring program without much interest where he happens to be a mentor of a 17year old girl. On the other hand, Taylor has googled everything about this hot techie and she will do everything to get closer to Gavin's heart, no matter what!
What I instantly loved about this book is that from the very beginning the author didn't turn this cancer story into something pitiful or didn't try to make us feel sorry for the characters because of their cancer. The story is laced with sadness and with a lots of fun moments like when Taylor flirted with Gavin and how Gavin used to took her every single as a kid who is happy to be around him. From the very beginning, the characters tried to move on with their short-span lives by aiming for happiness instead of feeling sorry for themselves. Taylor's determination to get laid before dying and Gavin's hope to find someone who will share love unconditionally. This aspect of trying to find happiness and fighting against all the odds is really brilliant and the author have layered each and every narration with great empathy.
The writing is articulate thus arrested my mind from the very first page. The prose is fast enough and since the author have carefully entwined the plot with humor and sadness, I was engaged till it's very end. The story simply left me heart-broken and mesmerized with the charm of this relationship between Taylor and Gavin. The relationship between Taylor and Gavin moves at a very slow pace, mainly due to Gavin's impression of Taylor being a little girl and he couldn't accept her proposals since he was way too older than her. And that's what kept me glued to the story- the possibility of a relationship within such a short time-span.
The characters draw enough realism from our real lives, like Taylor and Gavin, whom we can meet and see in our every day lives. The author embodies the voice of an17 year old teenage girl, by aptly portraying her fears, excitement when she found out about Gavin as her mentor, her teenage spunk, charm and wit and also her mannerism. Gavin on the other hand, might strike you as a closed book with all the windows of his heart shut as tightly as possible. Moreover, Gavin is featured as the mature guy with all the hot looks, in short, sexy, brooding guy! But when their common interest about a computer game- CROG, brings them together, Gavin opens up, and I eventually feel for his character.
It seems the author have poured her heart into this beautiful love-story which is sad yet very inspiring. Moreover, the author lets us contemplate with the story by portraying the emotions so vividly.
Verdict: Don't miss out this painful yet captivating book, which will uplift your heart with the warmth and with a few drops of tears.
Courtesy: I received a copy of this book for the blog tour.
July 23, 2013
Let me be honest. Thinking back on all the books I've read this past year, there have been lots that have hurt my heart. Many have brought tears to my eyes. Some have even caused tears to actually FALL out of my eyes. Less than five have made me do what I actually would call "crying."(I can't even think what they are right now though).
THIS BOOK, however... had me SOBBING!!!!
At one point, I took my tablet in the bathroom and turned on the exhaust fan so that my kids wouldn't worry about me because I just could not stop crying. (Note that I didn't STOP reading to cry... no, I kept reading through the tears).
I absolutely loved this book and I'm glad I read it (my tear ducts needed cleaning anyway)! This is an amazing story that is well written and well told. I'm sure it is going to stay with me for a while...
I should probably add, I did not cry the entire book - there were also lots of moments that made me laugh too (Gavin w/ the sweet tea!) I LOVE Gavin and Taylor! Don't be afraid to read this book for fear of crying. Be excited to read a book that is going to make you FEEL and experience a wide range of emotions as you step into the lives of some people you will never forget!!
Sounds like there is another book coming, and for the first time ever, I'm glad it's NOT available right now because (a) I don't think I could handle any more right now! and (b) this story deserves some time of reflection for a while. Not a story that you just want to jump on to the next book! (But I'll be ready for it when/if it comes!)
THIS BOOK, however... had me SOBBING!!!!
At one point, I took my tablet in the bathroom and turned on the exhaust fan so that my kids wouldn't worry about me because I just could not stop crying. (Note that I didn't STOP reading to cry... no, I kept reading through the tears).
I absolutely loved this book and I'm glad I read it (my tear ducts needed cleaning anyway)! This is an amazing story that is well written and well told. I'm sure it is going to stay with me for a while...
I should probably add, I did not cry the entire book - there were also lots of moments that made me laugh too (Gavin w/ the sweet tea!) I LOVE Gavin and Taylor! Don't be afraid to read this book for fear of crying. Be excited to read a book that is going to make you FEEL and experience a wide range of emotions as you step into the lives of some people you will never forget!!
Sounds like there is another book coming, and for the first time ever, I'm glad it's NOT available right now because (a) I don't think I could handle any more right now! and (b) this story deserves some time of reflection for a while. Not a story that you just want to jump on to the next book! (But I'll be ready for it when/if it comes!)
September 17, 2013
4.5 Cried Me A River Stars...but I smiled through the tears!!
There were a few things that didn't ring true with me, but overall this story did a great job of consuming me. I would imagine that when life deals you some crappy cards you're going to do whatever you need to do to make the most of what time you have left, and do it with the one who holds your heart. No matter what anyone else might think. And, when you've never had love, and that comes in the form of someone much younger than you, but wise beyond her years, you will reach out, grab her, and and hold on until your last breath.
The title makes so much sense once you read the book, and it's perfect, along with the beautiful cover. The joy you see on the faces of that couple, is the joy you'll feel when you read this book. The ending is bittersweet, it felt like a punch to the gut, but unfortunately all to often the reality. But, there is also a tremendous amount of happiness and hope! I'm also keeping my fingers crossed, if I read the last few words correctly, there might be another book.
Read Ellen's excellent review of A Taylor-Made Life. She said it better than I could ever dream of doing.
July 24, 2013
Right, I have to 'preamble' this one. So I'll just be straight up...you will cry when you read this. I know what you're thinking, "Yeah, yeah, whatever." I'm just saying, I'm not a crybag, but good Jesus, I cried all night long. Literally, I laid awake that night once I'd finished the story and wept into my pillow, wanting to change the story somehow. I finally came to the conclusion, after a whole lot of snotting and snorting, that was just the way it was supposed to end. The story as a whole would've lost its impact had it been written any other way.
I'm not a sappy person, but it was evident a lot of emotion went into this book. I imagine the author had her own bulk supply of tissues handy while writing it. I gotta hand it to her for really packing a punch that left me emotionally unstable for days. I couldn't even discuss the book for a week without tearing up. That's saying a lot for a mean ass like me.
To be honest, the blurb does a fantastic job describing precisely what the book is about, so there is hardly a reason for me to give another description of it. While reading the book, you know in the back of your head how the book might turn out, but you become so emotionally invested in the characters, you can't put it down. I honestly can say I've never been so attached to a hero and heroine as I was with Taylor and Gavin.
The writing and flow were fantastic and I really thought it was a beautifully written, heartwarming book. It captured my attention from page one, and I was regretful when it came to an end. I wanted to keep reading. I wanted there to more to this story.
I'll also admit that I could never read this story again. It's definitely not because I disliked it. Quite the opposite, in fact. Actually, I loved it. It was a remarkable story that made a lasting impact on me. However, I just don't think I could take the emotion tug-of-war again. Plus, it's not a story I see myself forgetting any time soon.
All in all, you HAVE to check this book out if you can handle an emotionally-charged, sweet romance. I've warned you, be prepared to cry. Because you most definitely will. But, I really think A Taylor-Made Life will make a lasting impression on you as it has done with me.
I'm not a sappy person, but it was evident a lot of emotion went into this book. I imagine the author had her own bulk supply of tissues handy while writing it. I gotta hand it to her for really packing a punch that left me emotionally unstable for days. I couldn't even discuss the book for a week without tearing up. That's saying a lot for a mean ass like me.
To be honest, the blurb does a fantastic job describing precisely what the book is about, so there is hardly a reason for me to give another description of it. While reading the book, you know in the back of your head how the book might turn out, but you become so emotionally invested in the characters, you can't put it down. I honestly can say I've never been so attached to a hero and heroine as I was with Taylor and Gavin.
The writing and flow were fantastic and I really thought it was a beautifully written, heartwarming book. It captured my attention from page one, and I was regretful when it came to an end. I wanted to keep reading. I wanted there to more to this story.
I'll also admit that I could never read this story again. It's definitely not because I disliked it. Quite the opposite, in fact. Actually, I loved it. It was a remarkable story that made a lasting impact on me. However, I just don't think I could take the emotion tug-of-war again. Plus, it's not a story I see myself forgetting any time soon.
All in all, you HAVE to check this book out if you can handle an emotionally-charged, sweet romance. I've warned you, be prepared to cry. Because you most definitely will. But, I really think A Taylor-Made Life will make a lasting impression on you as it has done with me.
August 8, 2013
5+ Stars!
An unforgettable read is a book that makes the improbable, not just possible, but believable. 17 year old Taylor is a cancer ridden former cheerleader whose life has been altered and ravaged by cancer and chemo. All efforts to find a bone marrow match have proven unsuccessful and the chances of finding one after the already exhaustive search is remote. Taylor's spirit, spunk and drive to experience life, well sex really, before the end of her short life is nothing short of inspirational and courageous. How does a 17 year old find a person to share her first sexual encounter with when her prospects are limited, her head is bald and her time is spent mostly playing her favorite online game CROG against her online nemesis Ogger19? Well, online dating sites seem a little risky and plying her mom to scout out prospects among her friends' children seems a little "out there" but Taylor is open and determined to find the one person who can fulfill her dying wish, not to be a virgin when she leaves this Earth.
Taylor is accepted into a special cancer mentoring program. Her mentor, Gavin Taylor has been living with cancer for a long time. Although reluctant to become a mentor in this program, he too is searching for something to fill the void in his young 25 year old life. Child prodigy, genius handsome and entrepreneur, Gavin is the full package. So one would think from the look of him and his bank account however finding someone who wants him for him and not his money has proven difficult. He feels that when his last days come, no one will grieve his loss, no one will have shared his heart. He is searching for someone to fulfill his own wish to have someone someone to grieve him and leave his legacy to at the end. Until Gavin can find a perfect match in a woman, he might as well try to help a fellow cancer stricken teenage boy, 17 year old Taylor Smith. Gavin commits to leave his home and his company in California for a few days to make a difference in a young man's life in Texas.
You can imagine Gavin's surprise when he arrives in Texas at the Smith's house and meets Taylor, a 17 year old girl! Taylor had already googled Gavin and knew he was young, attractive and dating worldly actresses and models. While slightly intimidated, she begins to envision new possibilities for this mentoring program and her mentor! She is determined to win this guy over and even engages her mom to be open to her idea of pursuing Gavin to be her "first". Yes, there was instant attraction (some readers don't buy that but Kary Rader can sell it like the Brooklyn bridge) and wonderful banter, that they both find refreshing, intriguing and real. Gavin would never entertain the idea of acting on these impulses he has with a 17 year old. Thank goodness, he has morals! But Taylor is adorable, engaging, gutsy, lively and fun - her spirit is infectious and is has just the right combination for Gavin to feel a budding connection. It doesnt hurt Taylor's cause that immediately is welcome, safe and feeling alive for the first time in a long time with her and her parents.
That's enough setting up the story, I never do that, what made this book exceptional was the mixture of the heavy topic of cancer and the light hearted outlook that all the characters shared laced with the knowledge their lives were short and the pursuit of a well lived life takes precedence when you don't have the luxury to wait around for it to come to you. The author brings you round to see that wasting joy in life to satisfy others' moral standards was not a way to live life to the fullest. Taylor is one incredible girl, mature beyond her years yet innocent and girlish too. I loved this character, she was easy to love and her straight talking manner was pretty funny. Gavin took a while to get on board but waited an honorable amount of time (IMO). Gavin found his match and when he embraced that knowledge, his heart soared and so did mine! The underlying current of book is time's a-wasting and cancer, like life, waits for no one. That spoke to me on so many levels. Taylor may be only 17 but she is wise beyond her years thanks to her leukemia and her battle for life. Gavin was drawn to her, and frankly so was I. I laughed and cried and mused over how they enjoyed every minute that had together. There was no sweating the "small stuff" like plans for his company, treatment options--they did what they had to to maximize their life together. It was wonderful to read. This was a well written, heart-filled, sexy and unique take on life. I felt it from the start and I will be thinking about this book for a long time to come.
Remember the beginning of my review I said the implausible is believable and Kary Rader really suspended my belief and opened up my heart to the options at hand for these two characters---- these two were compelled to explore their attraction, their life experiences and their passion --for CROG and each other.
A Taylor-Made Life is definitely among a select few this year that I call the best of the best. I loved it! It was not depressing at all, it was warm, uplifting and lovely. Taylor and Gavin's love was something to fight for and they did triumphant in the love and life they made together.This was a great and wonderfully moving read. ---Grab life, live and love with no regrets. Great message, great book!
June 25, 2013
While reading this book, I forgot I was reading a craft of fiction and thought I was reading a diary (and a juicy one at that). Taylor comes across exactly as she should-a young woman who has gone through a terrible thing in her life. Yet, she remains strong and spunky. Her charm will win you over and she's not perfect which makes her all the more enduring.
Her love interest, Gavin, makes you wanna cheer for him and tell him to listen to his heart instead of his head. He meshes well with his occupation (game designer) and relevant to how gamers act even now.
Their love is captivating and draws you in until you feel like Taylor, a fresh out of school eighteen year old, who has the courage to not only face love but cancer as well.
This is a bittersweet story, but I had to read through to the end to find out what happened. I was not disappointed as this story clings to reality while showing how sweet life really is. It will make you laugh, cry, and laugh again.
I recommend this book to any who love a realist romance.
I was given a copy an ARC of this book for an honest review.
Her love interest, Gavin, makes you wanna cheer for him and tell him to listen to his heart instead of his head. He meshes well with his occupation (game designer) and relevant to how gamers act even now.
Their love is captivating and draws you in until you feel like Taylor, a fresh out of school eighteen year old, who has the courage to not only face love but cancer as well.
This is a bittersweet story, but I had to read through to the end to find out what happened. I was not disappointed as this story clings to reality while showing how sweet life really is. It will make you laugh, cry, and laugh again.
I recommend this book to any who love a realist romance.
I was given a copy an ARC of this book for an honest review.
July 22, 2013
6 stars. Beautiful. 2 full box of Kleenex.
Two young people facing tragedy, Cheerleader Taylor Smith and Tech-geek Gavin Taylor meet and the connection is instant but can go nowhere... or can it?
Fighting for their lives has given them perspective on what they most want in the time they have left.
The odd are stacked against them in fulfilling what they want and need.
Then enters love.
The question is are you the kind of person that is ready to risk your heart no matter the outcome...or would you deny yourself and others a love so faithful and abundant that it might be all that carries you through the darkest of place...
What I love about this story is that the page chime with a youthful beauty and tenacity while facing tragedy.
I was immediately sucked in and couldn't put down. I laughed, cried and cried. Both times I've read it.
Two young people facing tragedy, Cheerleader Taylor Smith and Tech-geek Gavin Taylor meet and the connection is instant but can go nowhere... or can it?
Fighting for their lives has given them perspective on what they most want in the time they have left.
The odd are stacked against them in fulfilling what they want and need.
Then enters love.
The question is are you the kind of person that is ready to risk your heart no matter the outcome...or would you deny yourself and others a love so faithful and abundant that it might be all that carries you through the darkest of place...
What I love about this story is that the page chime with a youthful beauty and tenacity while facing tragedy.
I was immediately sucked in and couldn't put down. I laughed, cried and cried. Both times I've read it.
August 19, 2013
Before I begin, I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“This is the life we were given, and we lived it. As best we could, we lived it. But this – this is the life we made. And it’s perfect.”
Lately I have been reading lots of books dealing with cancer (Ruin by Rachel Van Dyken and The Fault in Our Stars by John Green) so I thought the tears, the emotions, and the plotline would just wear off, but boy was I wrong! This book was incredibly attention-grabbing from the start and sucked me in like a hurricane. Infused with a message that is life-changing, A Taylor-Made Life is so much more than just a love story; it empowers characters to find the strength and courage to face death in the flesh and make the most of their lives.
“My time was running out, and we all knew it. Though we continued to look, the odds of finding a cure were slim because of some “rare” genes. What a time to be unique.”
Taylor is probably one of my favorite heroines. She is smart, witty, and incredibly mature regardless of her age. Despite the very serious subject matter the book revolves around, I found the first half to be lighthearted in tone, and it definitely helped defuse the tension and angst I knew was coming around the corner.
“He fingered the awards lining his oversized executive desk and brushed the dust from them. College graduate at seventeen, CEO and billionaire entrepreneur at twenty three, terminal cancer patient at twenty five.”
Talk about racking up accomplishments. When I first started to read about Gavin, I wanted to jump in the book and give him a hug. Here we have someone who is handsome, rich, young, but utterly alone.
“Cancer gave a new perspective to everything. He had lots of money. Lots of things. Hundreds of employees, business associates and acquaintances. But no time. No family, at least, none he spoke to, and only a few friends he didn’t have to pay. And if he took every dollar he had and dumped it over his head it wouldn’t add a single minute to his life.”
Yes, the best word to describe Gavin would be alone. No one to talk to, no one to hang out with after work, no one to be there for him during his cancer treatments. That is, until Taylor waltzes into his life. There was just something so sweet, so sentimental about this couple. The fact that these two people, knowing that one day cancer would tear them apart and still want to be together, made me long for their HEA even more.
“What did you wish for? Obviously not money. Health?”
“I wished for one more day with you. Because that seemed most like heaven to me. I thought that was the best thing I could ask for. And now, today, I feel like I got my wish. But you know what I realize? It’s not enough. Because even an endless number would leave me wanting one more.”
Another aspect I want to commend Kary for is the attention she brings to gaming. Besides being an avid reader, I am also an intense gamer so I really appreciate how Kary expertly weaves the importance of games to the characters in the story. It was definitely a fresh, unique addition to the story and the sentiment behind it was ever so thoughtful and uplifting to read about.
“They occupy the empty hours but it’s more than that. They make us feel like we can fight and win. And when we don’t, there’s always another life waiting to be played.”
I was warned by other reviewers that this book would unleash the floodgates but surprisingly, I was able to rein in my tears until the very end because, you know, I’m just so sick of ugly crying all the time. In many ways that was worse because I had all this fear and tension building up in my heart, and each memorable scene I read about added to those emotions, and then I finally cracked. I broke down after reading Gavin’s heartbreaking letter and then I did what I was supposed to do a long time ago. Cry. Lots.
“I don’t regret a single minute of all I’ve suffered. In fact, I embrace it. Because, Sweetness, if it weren’t for this disease, I would never have known you, tasted your goodness, or felt your love. And for that piece of heaven, I would have suffered a thousand times more.”
“Cry lots, Sweetness, but don’t cry long.”
This unforgettable story will forever be engraved into my heart, and one that I will reflect on often and reread for years to come.
5 SOUL-ETCHING STARS!!!
“This is the life we were given, and we lived it. As best we could, we lived it. But this – this is the life we made. And it’s perfect.”
Lately I have been reading lots of books dealing with cancer (Ruin by Rachel Van Dyken and The Fault in Our Stars by John Green) so I thought the tears, the emotions, and the plotline would just wear off, but boy was I wrong! This book was incredibly attention-grabbing from the start and sucked me in like a hurricane. Infused with a message that is life-changing, A Taylor-Made Life is so much more than just a love story; it empowers characters to find the strength and courage to face death in the flesh and make the most of their lives.
“My time was running out, and we all knew it. Though we continued to look, the odds of finding a cure were slim because of some “rare” genes. What a time to be unique.”
Taylor is probably one of my favorite heroines. She is smart, witty, and incredibly mature regardless of her age. Despite the very serious subject matter the book revolves around, I found the first half to be lighthearted in tone, and it definitely helped defuse the tension and angst I knew was coming around the corner.
“He fingered the awards lining his oversized executive desk and brushed the dust from them. College graduate at seventeen, CEO and billionaire entrepreneur at twenty three, terminal cancer patient at twenty five.”
Talk about racking up accomplishments. When I first started to read about Gavin, I wanted to jump in the book and give him a hug. Here we have someone who is handsome, rich, young, but utterly alone.
“Cancer gave a new perspective to everything. He had lots of money. Lots of things. Hundreds of employees, business associates and acquaintances. But no time. No family, at least, none he spoke to, and only a few friends he didn’t have to pay. And if he took every dollar he had and dumped it over his head it wouldn’t add a single minute to his life.”
Yes, the best word to describe Gavin would be alone. No one to talk to, no one to hang out with after work, no one to be there for him during his cancer treatments. That is, until Taylor waltzes into his life. There was just something so sweet, so sentimental about this couple. The fact that these two people, knowing that one day cancer would tear them apart and still want to be together, made me long for their HEA even more.
“What did you wish for? Obviously not money. Health?”
“I wished for one more day with you. Because that seemed most like heaven to me. I thought that was the best thing I could ask for. And now, today, I feel like I got my wish. But you know what I realize? It’s not enough. Because even an endless number would leave me wanting one more.”
Another aspect I want to commend Kary for is the attention she brings to gaming. Besides being an avid reader, I am also an intense gamer so I really appreciate how Kary expertly weaves the importance of games to the characters in the story. It was definitely a fresh, unique addition to the story and the sentiment behind it was ever so thoughtful and uplifting to read about.
“They occupy the empty hours but it’s more than that. They make us feel like we can fight and win. And when we don’t, there’s always another life waiting to be played.”
I was warned by other reviewers that this book would unleash the floodgates but surprisingly, I was able to rein in my tears until the very end because, you know, I’m just so sick of ugly crying all the time. In many ways that was worse because I had all this fear and tension building up in my heart, and each memorable scene I read about added to those emotions, and then I finally cracked. I broke down after reading Gavin’s heartbreaking letter and then I did what I was supposed to do a long time ago. Cry. Lots.
“I don’t regret a single minute of all I’ve suffered. In fact, I embrace it. Because, Sweetness, if it weren’t for this disease, I would never have known you, tasted your goodness, or felt your love. And for that piece of heaven, I would have suffered a thousand times more.”
“Cry lots, Sweetness, but don’t cry long.”
This unforgettable story will forever be engraved into my heart, and one that I will reflect on often and reread for years to come.
5 SOUL-ETCHING STARS!!!
September 4, 2013
Warning: you will cry loud, obnoxious, gut-wrenching tears....so please have an entire box of tissues on hand.
I started this book knowing that someone I'd fall in love with was probably going to die because let's be honest here...cancer doesn't care about happily ever afters. Cancer doesn't go away because we need to believe that romance is perfect and always ends in a happily ever after. Life isn't always fair and Kary Radar didn't sugar-coat the story, she told a story that felt real. So if you are expecting an epic love story about faith, hope, love, sacrifice and acceptance....you are in the right place. But don't expect a story that has an unrealistic ending.
This story was beautiful....simply put, I wouldn't change one thing about it. I knew it would rip my heart out but it was such an incredible story and well worth the pain that led to the ultimate feeling of contentment and love.
I just want you to know that I will forever remember this book as one of my top 5 favorites, and let me tell you how amazing that is to accomplish! I don't think 5 stars is enough....honestly this book will forever change the way I view epic love stories. Please take the time to read this book. I stand behind this book 100%!!!!
I started this book knowing that someone I'd fall in love with was probably going to die because let's be honest here...cancer doesn't care about happily ever afters. Cancer doesn't go away because we need to believe that romance is perfect and always ends in a happily ever after. Life isn't always fair and Kary Radar didn't sugar-coat the story, she told a story that felt real. So if you are expecting an epic love story about faith, hope, love, sacrifice and acceptance....you are in the right place. But don't expect a story that has an unrealistic ending.
This story was beautiful....simply put, I wouldn't change one thing about it. I knew it would rip my heart out but it was such an incredible story and well worth the pain that led to the ultimate feeling of contentment and love.
I just want you to know that I will forever remember this book as one of my top 5 favorites, and let me tell you how amazing that is to accomplish! I don't think 5 stars is enough....honestly this book will forever change the way I view epic love stories. Please take the time to read this book. I stand behind this book 100%!!!!
July 11, 2014
Review to come...
August 3, 2013
Once in a while, an exceptional book comes along that breaks all sorts of rules, perseveres until it gets itself published, and once published,stands out like a jewel.
This is one of those books.
Behind every great rule-breaking book is an author who knows deep down, her story deserves to be published because it is the exception to the rules.
What rules?
There's a ton of them. But I'm going to talk about three rules which Kary Rader's book broke.
1# Don’t write about depressing topics.
Kary’s main characters are dying from cancer. 17yr old Taylor has leukemia. Her mentor, 25 yr old Gavin has Stage 5 Melanoma. Both are on short time clocks that do not mesh with our current social perceptions of right and wrong.
Taylor wants to make love to a young man before she dies. She’s been robbed of her dreams and her future. But she’s not dead yet and she wants to experience Life and Love in the short time remaining.
Gavin wants someone to love and miss him when he dies. It’s bad enough cancer will take his life in less than two years, but the idea he could disappear and no one would notice or care tears at him. He desperately needs his life to have meant something to someone.
Which brings us to Rule #2:
2# Absolutely no sexual relationships may occur between teens and adults.
At the beginning of the book, Taylor is a very mature 17, two weeks from her 18th birthday.
Gavin is a 25yr old computer genius. Admitted to college at the age of 14, he missed his normal teenage years, thus now he’s a mix of teen and man.
To me, Taylor seems the most mature of the two. But mental maturity doesn’t come into play with social mores. The publishing rule in this matter is very strict, and most publishers won’t break it, even when the characters have extenuating circumstances, such as if they wait, they’ll be dead.
Gavin tries to do the right thing and deny the love that has formed between them, but Taylor refuses to waste the little life she has left obeying rules written for people who would live another fifty years. And this precious young woman is a force to be reckoned with when she wants something. One day after she turns 18, they marry.
Then there is a third brick wall that Kary hurdles:
#3 Thou shalt not bear a child to save a parent’s life.
Honestly, I cannot imagine anyone who reads this story would object to this particular situation. But that is due to Kary’s adept handling of the matter making the child a gift from God and a blessing on their union, rather than a last ditch effort to save her life.
How did Kary break through all these walls?
A Taylor Made Life is real, authentic, and goes straight to the heart. I dare anyone to try and read this book without falling in love with both main characters.
Or bawling your eyes out near the end.
So grab a boat load of tissues and ready yourself for a beautiful--yet horrible,
tragic--yet uplifting ,
endearing--yet devastating journey through this authentic love story of triumph.
And if you can't guess, I give this book 5 stars
This is one of those books.
Behind every great rule-breaking book is an author who knows deep down, her story deserves to be published because it is the exception to the rules.
What rules?
There's a ton of them. But I'm going to talk about three rules which Kary Rader's book broke.
1# Don’t write about depressing topics.
Kary’s main characters are dying from cancer. 17yr old Taylor has leukemia. Her mentor, 25 yr old Gavin has Stage 5 Melanoma. Both are on short time clocks that do not mesh with our current social perceptions of right and wrong.
Taylor wants to make love to a young man before she dies. She’s been robbed of her dreams and her future. But she’s not dead yet and she wants to experience Life and Love in the short time remaining.
Gavin wants someone to love and miss him when he dies. It’s bad enough cancer will take his life in less than two years, but the idea he could disappear and no one would notice or care tears at him. He desperately needs his life to have meant something to someone.
Which brings us to Rule #2:
2# Absolutely no sexual relationships may occur between teens and adults.
At the beginning of the book, Taylor is a very mature 17, two weeks from her 18th birthday.
Gavin is a 25yr old computer genius. Admitted to college at the age of 14, he missed his normal teenage years, thus now he’s a mix of teen and man.
To me, Taylor seems the most mature of the two. But mental maturity doesn’t come into play with social mores. The publishing rule in this matter is very strict, and most publishers won’t break it, even when the characters have extenuating circumstances, such as if they wait, they’ll be dead.
Gavin tries to do the right thing and deny the love that has formed between them, but Taylor refuses to waste the little life she has left obeying rules written for people who would live another fifty years. And this precious young woman is a force to be reckoned with when she wants something. One day after she turns 18, they marry.
Then there is a third brick wall that Kary hurdles:
#3 Thou shalt not bear a child to save a parent’s life.
Honestly, I cannot imagine anyone who reads this story would object to this particular situation. But that is due to Kary’s adept handling of the matter making the child a gift from God and a blessing on their union, rather than a last ditch effort to save her life.
How did Kary break through all these walls?
A Taylor Made Life is real, authentic, and goes straight to the heart. I dare anyone to try and read this book without falling in love with both main characters.
Or bawling your eyes out near the end.
So grab a boat load of tissues and ready yourself for a beautiful--yet horrible,
tragic--yet uplifting ,
endearing--yet devastating journey through this authentic love story of triumph.
And if you can't guess, I give this book 5 stars
July 24, 2013
Actual marking 4.5
To be honest this book deserves 5/5. But just because of the dying situation I'm deducting 0.5 marks. I'm not emotional kind but I'm afraid of the contemporary books that focuses on harsh reality of our lives like cancer, dying at young age etc. I agreed to review this book hoping that I'll conquer that fear of mine. Believe me it taught many things that we already know but don't bother to notice. We all are so busy with our lives that we don't notice where the time flows by and "time is what we don't have". Both Gavin and Taylor are very strong. Gavin did everything possible to give Taylor whatever she wanted to have. He saved her life, gave her his everything. Whatever he worked for his whole life. And even in his harsh times he thought of her and encouraged her. He didn't even hesitated to get his wife get in contact with her Ex-boyfriend , who according to me didn't deserve to be with her. And Taylor, at such a young age she matured like a lady. She fought her cancer, didn't loose hope when she could've at 17. She supported Gavin in every situation she could and in every way possible.
Seriously I think those who're suffering from any disease aren't the only ones who don't have time. We all don't have. And this book taught to accept and live what we've got and make a life that's the best. All the small things which we don't pay much attention to actually matters a lot to us. And we might not know how much we'll miss them. Nicely written , but emotional and scary for me that my eyes got bloodshot red after finishing it. Author has done a nice job in wrapping the story so beautifully around their lives and emotions. I'm thankful to her for giving me a copy to read.
To be honest this book deserves 5/5. But just because of the dying situation I'm deducting 0.5 marks. I'm not emotional kind but I'm afraid of the contemporary books that focuses on harsh reality of our lives like cancer, dying at young age etc. I agreed to review this book hoping that I'll conquer that fear of mine. Believe me it taught many things that we already know but don't bother to notice. We all are so busy with our lives that we don't notice where the time flows by and "time is what we don't have". Both Gavin and Taylor are very strong. Gavin did everything possible to give Taylor whatever she wanted to have. He saved her life, gave her his everything. Whatever he worked for his whole life. And even in his harsh times he thought of her and encouraged her. He didn't even hesitated to get his wife get in contact with her Ex-boyfriend , who according to me didn't deserve to be with her. And Taylor, at such a young age she matured like a lady. She fought her cancer, didn't loose hope when she could've at 17. She supported Gavin in every situation she could and in every way possible.
Seriously I think those who're suffering from any disease aren't the only ones who don't have time. We all don't have. And this book taught to accept and live what we've got and make a life that's the best. All the small things which we don't pay much attention to actually matters a lot to us. And we might not know how much we'll miss them. Nicely written , but emotional and scary for me that my eyes got bloodshot red after finishing it. Author has done a nice job in wrapping the story so beautifully around their lives and emotions. I'm thankful to her for giving me a copy to read.
March 25, 2015
This is not my usual genre of books i read. i dont ever books about people with cancer or disease. because i am very weak hearted when it comes to death. i cant read about people dying. i cant read books that i know wont have a happy ending. so i always stir clear of them. but i made an exception for this book. and i am so glad. i was clenching my heart the whole time i was reading. i was preparing myself.
This book so well written, and so full of LIFE. the characters are so full of LIFE. they weren't sorry for themselves, they weren't gloating about dying, they just wanted to live in the moment and enjoy everything.
i had a constant smile on my face whenever i read gavin and taylors scenes. they are perfect for each other. everything they go through with each other might be stressful but it was perfect. the beach accident, the wedding, everything was perfect. it was needed. they needed it.
i cried. i was crying at 3am. tears were flowing from my eyes at the end, but i kept on reading. because Gavin and Taylor made me keep going. i couldn't leave them mid way. after i finished the book. i couldnt sleep for hours. i just kept on going over there short time together in my head. it was perfect.
i know i will never be able to read another sad book after this. because this book took a toll on me. Gavin and Taylor will always be in my heart forever.
This book so well written, and so full of LIFE. the characters are so full of LIFE. they weren't sorry for themselves, they weren't gloating about dying, they just wanted to live in the moment and enjoy everything.
i had a constant smile on my face whenever i read gavin and taylors scenes. they are perfect for each other. everything they go through with each other might be stressful but it was perfect. the beach accident, the wedding, everything was perfect. it was needed. they needed it.
i cried. i was crying at 3am. tears were flowing from my eyes at the end, but i kept on reading. because Gavin and Taylor made me keep going. i couldn't leave them mid way. after i finished the book. i couldnt sleep for hours. i just kept on going over there short time together in my head. it was perfect.
i know i will never be able to read another sad book after this. because this book took a toll on me. Gavin and Taylor will always be in my heart forever.
August 7, 2013
I received this book as a free read, only requesting a review in return. I don't do plot summaries as part of review because I hate spoilers (even if I'm one to flip to read the last chapter halfway through-that's my choice but not going to push my synopsis on anyone else). Anyway, Just finished the book and my kiddos are amazed at the pile of tissues but I don’t remember using them but I do recall the smiles and laughter A Taylor-made Life gave me over the last day or two. Great read. Moments that warm your heart and having you root for happy endings and miracles. While our desires are not always His desires, the journey is worth the time and emotional inebriation the reader will endure. "Time was always the enemy, a vicious foe that loomed when you needed it to speed, and flew when he wanted it to stop." The story entwines one's heart as the author sums up the joys and sufferings of love in a short, contemporary novel. "That baby was her lifeline, and her goal to live was his life's objective." The ups and downs are absolutely worth the roller coaster of emotions. For once I truly hope while this could be a stand alone novel, that the story continues for Taylor, Aaron, Matt, and the rest of the TME family. I did note a few word mistakes like "should" instead of "shoulder" or "thought" instead of "though" but they shouldn't stop the reader from enjoying the work. Not a good read but a great one. Enjoy.
February 2, 2014
"This is the life we were given, and we lived it. As best we could, we lived it. But this-This is the life we made. And its perfect..." I loved this book! I went in knowing that someone wouldn't make it because cancer is an ugly stupid thing. I couldn't stop reading once I started and was up til almost 3 o'clock this morning finishing. I decided to sleep before I wrote my review because I was so crushed and devastated. Sleeping on it didn't help I just keep thinking how many times a day this is happening in real life. As I laid in bed next to my husband reading this book it made me thankful for each and every day we have together and made mien want to live each day to its fullest so thank u for that! Gavin and Taylors story was a whirlwind and I'm glad they found each other and in that they found love. They overcame struggles and lived each day to its fullest. I loved all the characters and am glad they loved Gavin as their own. I loved Gavin so much and wished he couldn't been saved...but he did receive his own miracle in Taylor and Aaron, knowing that she would live and that he would carry on through his company,family,friends but mostly in Aaron. "You showed me not only was I worthy of great love-I was capable of it." I'm also very curious to know Gavins letter to Matt said. Thank u for such a beautiful story...it will stay with me for a long time and its now on my top 10 favorites.
August 13, 2013
I never loved something that made me cry this much until I read this book. From the time I read the premise for this book, I knew that it had the potential to make me sad. However, this book had me crying to the point I almost could not read the words but it was so good that I had to wipe away the tears and keep reading. In this book readers get to meet Taylor and Gavin-two young people whose lives have been greatly affected by cancer. When the two meet, they have an instant connection. While this could be unbelievable to for two people to grow so close in a short time, the reality of the cancer and lack of time the couple has makes it very realistic.
I enjoyed how even in seemingly hopeless situations the characters stayed positive. It was also nice that even though I knew better than to hope for a fairytale happily ever after, there were events and happy things that the author wrote that I could hope for and anticipate. The book includes exciting twists and laughs that add to the story without sugar coating cancer. The relationships in this book were fantastic. Not only were Gavin and Taylor's interactions great but it was nice seeing them with their friends and families as well. This is one of the most touching stories I have ever read and highly recommend it. Yes, you will cry but the tears are worth it for such an inspiring book.
I enjoyed how even in seemingly hopeless situations the characters stayed positive. It was also nice that even though I knew better than to hope for a fairytale happily ever after, there were events and happy things that the author wrote that I could hope for and anticipate. The book includes exciting twists and laughs that add to the story without sugar coating cancer. The relationships in this book were fantastic. Not only were Gavin and Taylor's interactions great but it was nice seeing them with their friends and families as well. This is one of the most touching stories I have ever read and highly recommend it. Yes, you will cry but the tears are worth it for such an inspiring book.
July 15, 2013
The clock is always ticking. We are always aware of the passing of time. But when you're young, time shouldn't be such an enemy. But when time isn't on your side...the enemy is near. Always. Watching, waiting. Claiming.
For seventeen year old Taylor Smith, this is the time she should be thinking of things such as proms, the nearing of high school's end, choosing a college. Maybe even having a little frivolous fun. Instead, she's fighting one of the hardest battles ever- cancer. There's so many things she wants to do and see in life before her time is through, but as the days draw closer and there's no match to be found, things are really beginning to look grim. Taylor is one of the sweetest teens I have ever read about. I love her. I admire her wit, her continuation to live as normal as possible, knowing that time doesn't have her best interest at heart. She's so full of life, and even though she's lost so much of her sense of normal while fighting this battle, she's a strong willed character that I easily connected with. I love the open, honest bond she shares with her mother and how close knit her family is. I rooted for Taylor the entire time.
Gavin Taylor doesn't have time on his side, either. He's built up his company from scratch at a very young age, but despite the money rolling in and the people surrounding him that he works with, he's a loner. He doesn't have a family to back him up and honestly, he doesn't know who is true friends are. All he wants is to know someone is going to miss him if he doesn't make it out of this battle. Let me tell you, that breaks my heart! I adore Gavin. He's a little hard to read at first, but I think it's understandable considering the situation. He's stuck in a hard place when he meets Taylor. She's determined to do everything it takes to win him over and he fights it. Can you guess who wins?
I love that Taylor and Gavin have so many things that bond them. They are such a sweet, young couple with so much stacked against them. Taylor is unlike any other woman he's ever met. She is one of his biggest fans and players of the games he's created, and how could he not love a woman like that?
The future is slim, and it's time to make some of the biggest decisions people this young should NEVER have to make. The realism of this story hit me right in the heart and broke it into a million pieces. Every day, people are fighting illnesses that threaten to take time away from them, and the reality of that made me really think about my own life. We complain over little things every day, how time is limited but really, it's so trivial in comparison to those that have a lesser amount of time to spend doing the things they want to. Could you just imagine what Taylor and Gavin have to go through? This could easily be someone you or I know, and that hurts.
I have to applaud Kary Rader for taking on such an emotionally charged story that took me on a journey I never expected. I bawled like a baby so many times, my heart raced faster and my stomach knotted up to the point I had to put the Kindle down to stop and catch my breath, yet I had to pick it back up quickly to find out what happened next. This isn't your ordinary every day story. It's a bittersweet, heartbreaking journey through the process of dealing with cancer, but it's a story I feel everyone should read because it's an eye opener to what people are going through in real life. The characters in this story became more than just people in a book- I felt like they were someone I knew and so every scare, every tear, every great moment, I found myself feeling the exact same things they did with such intense power. A Taylor Made Life is one of the best books I've read this year and it's not one I'll soon forget in the near future. Taylor and Gavin stole my heart and my breath and I wasn't ready to let them go. Bravo, Ms. Rader, for writing a story that I feel people are going to be talking about for a very long time.
DISCLAIMER: I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. All thoughts are mine and completely from my heart.
This review was originally posted on Storm Goddess Book Reviews & More
http://www.stormgoddessbookreviews.bl...
For seventeen year old Taylor Smith, this is the time she should be thinking of things such as proms, the nearing of high school's end, choosing a college. Maybe even having a little frivolous fun. Instead, she's fighting one of the hardest battles ever- cancer. There's so many things she wants to do and see in life before her time is through, but as the days draw closer and there's no match to be found, things are really beginning to look grim. Taylor is one of the sweetest teens I have ever read about. I love her. I admire her wit, her continuation to live as normal as possible, knowing that time doesn't have her best interest at heart. She's so full of life, and even though she's lost so much of her sense of normal while fighting this battle, she's a strong willed character that I easily connected with. I love the open, honest bond she shares with her mother and how close knit her family is. I rooted for Taylor the entire time.
Gavin Taylor doesn't have time on his side, either. He's built up his company from scratch at a very young age, but despite the money rolling in and the people surrounding him that he works with, he's a loner. He doesn't have a family to back him up and honestly, he doesn't know who is true friends are. All he wants is to know someone is going to miss him if he doesn't make it out of this battle. Let me tell you, that breaks my heart! I adore Gavin. He's a little hard to read at first, but I think it's understandable considering the situation. He's stuck in a hard place when he meets Taylor. She's determined to do everything it takes to win him over and he fights it. Can you guess who wins?
I love that Taylor and Gavin have so many things that bond them. They are such a sweet, young couple with so much stacked against them. Taylor is unlike any other woman he's ever met. She is one of his biggest fans and players of the games he's created, and how could he not love a woman like that?
The future is slim, and it's time to make some of the biggest decisions people this young should NEVER have to make. The realism of this story hit me right in the heart and broke it into a million pieces. Every day, people are fighting illnesses that threaten to take time away from them, and the reality of that made me really think about my own life. We complain over little things every day, how time is limited but really, it's so trivial in comparison to those that have a lesser amount of time to spend doing the things they want to. Could you just imagine what Taylor and Gavin have to go through? This could easily be someone you or I know, and that hurts.
I have to applaud Kary Rader for taking on such an emotionally charged story that took me on a journey I never expected. I bawled like a baby so many times, my heart raced faster and my stomach knotted up to the point I had to put the Kindle down to stop and catch my breath, yet I had to pick it back up quickly to find out what happened next. This isn't your ordinary every day story. It's a bittersweet, heartbreaking journey through the process of dealing with cancer, but it's a story I feel everyone should read because it's an eye opener to what people are going through in real life. The characters in this story became more than just people in a book- I felt like they were someone I knew and so every scare, every tear, every great moment, I found myself feeling the exact same things they did with such intense power. A Taylor Made Life is one of the best books I've read this year and it's not one I'll soon forget in the near future. Taylor and Gavin stole my heart and my breath and I wasn't ready to let them go. Bravo, Ms. Rader, for writing a story that I feel people are going to be talking about for a very long time.
DISCLAIMER: I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. All thoughts are mine and completely from my heart.
This review was originally posted on Storm Goddess Book Reviews & More
http://www.stormgoddessbookreviews.bl...
September 11, 2013
My Review:
At 17 most teenagers are involved in school activities, hanging out with friends and living their life day by day. For Taylor, her life is all about hospital visits, surgeries and treatments. She's in a constant battle against time.
Being a CEO and billionaire of an online game company at the young age of twenty-five is a remarkable achievement. Gavin wishes that he could achieve other personal goals. He would love to find a wife and start a family of his own.
In A Taylor-Made Life we follow the story of two courageous young people that find each other when they most need it.
When Taylor realises that time is ticking away and that she may not get the chance to experience everything she wants to, she makes a decision: She wants to find a lover. With the help of her mom and friend Rachel, she starts her search for the perfect candidate who will make her heart race. When she sees the picture of her mentor she knows he's the one.
Gavin may have all the money in the world, but there is one thing that money can't buy: Time. When he starts thinking of how much work he put into his company and that no one around him is going to be able to take over, he goes on a mission to find a wife. He enrolls the help of a celebrity matchmaker to make it happen. After seeing a few candidates, he does not find what he's looking for. When his oncologist signs him up for The Cancer Survivor Mentor Program, the last thing he expected was to find his magical princess to appear right in front of him. Taylor is everything he wants in a wife.
Once she sees Gavin face-to-face, Taylor knows that she will not give up until she makes him understand that they are meant to be. Gavin's stubbornness gets in the way and he pushes Taylor away making her understand that they will never be more than friends.
On his last day as a mentor, Gavin knows that he won't be able to live without Taylor, but the stress level that this situation brings him sends him straight to the hospital. During his convalescence, he overhears a conversation between the doctor and Taylor's mom that if a child of theirs would be born, he could be a potential match for Taylor and her life could be saved. Mixed emotions is what Gavin feels with this new information. He wants to save Taylor's life, but he would never be able to leave a child behind.
When he is ready to leave to go back to his life, he asks Taylor to join him, but under the condition that they remain only friends and nothing more. Once they arrive at his home everything seems to go according to what Gavin wants, but when Taylor's ex-boyfriend shows up, Gavin is determined to overcome all the obstacles in his way and fight for his girl.
They embark on an emotional journey that will make every last minute count.
My Rating:
I give A Taylor-Made Life 5 beautiful, heart-wrenching and sensational stars! From the moment I read the book description, I knew I had to read it. Once in a while you just stumble upon a book that takes you on an emotional journey. This book did this and much more for me. The author did a phenomenal job of making us understand what the value of time is for a person who is asking for an extra second, minute, hour, day of their life. Taylor and Gavin are two exceptional characters. They created a life together and they made it perfect. Be prepared to laugh with Taylor and Gavin, but also to cry. When I finished this book it was almost 2 am and I was crying so much that I could not see the words in front of my eyes. *Ugly cries* Keep a box of tissues near by, you're going to need them!
I want to take a moment and say THANK YOU to author Kary Rader. This book made me understand many things. I often hear YOLO in conversations, but we are so busy in our daily routine that we forget that we have one life to live and that we must make the most of it. Sometimes a book can teach you things, A Taylor-Made Life sure did.
Fantastic work by author Kary Rader!
At 17 most teenagers are involved in school activities, hanging out with friends and living their life day by day. For Taylor, her life is all about hospital visits, surgeries and treatments. She's in a constant battle against time.
Being a CEO and billionaire of an online game company at the young age of twenty-five is a remarkable achievement. Gavin wishes that he could achieve other personal goals. He would love to find a wife and start a family of his own.
In A Taylor-Made Life we follow the story of two courageous young people that find each other when they most need it.
When Taylor realises that time is ticking away and that she may not get the chance to experience everything she wants to, she makes a decision: She wants to find a lover. With the help of her mom and friend Rachel, she starts her search for the perfect candidate who will make her heart race. When she sees the picture of her mentor she knows he's the one.
Gavin may have all the money in the world, but there is one thing that money can't buy: Time. When he starts thinking of how much work he put into his company and that no one around him is going to be able to take over, he goes on a mission to find a wife. He enrolls the help of a celebrity matchmaker to make it happen. After seeing a few candidates, he does not find what he's looking for. When his oncologist signs him up for The Cancer Survivor Mentor Program, the last thing he expected was to find his magical princess to appear right in front of him. Taylor is everything he wants in a wife.
Once she sees Gavin face-to-face, Taylor knows that she will not give up until she makes him understand that they are meant to be. Gavin's stubbornness gets in the way and he pushes Taylor away making her understand that they will never be more than friends.
On his last day as a mentor, Gavin knows that he won't be able to live without Taylor, but the stress level that this situation brings him sends him straight to the hospital. During his convalescence, he overhears a conversation between the doctor and Taylor's mom that if a child of theirs would be born, he could be a potential match for Taylor and her life could be saved. Mixed emotions is what Gavin feels with this new information. He wants to save Taylor's life, but he would never be able to leave a child behind.
When he is ready to leave to go back to his life, he asks Taylor to join him, but under the condition that they remain only friends and nothing more. Once they arrive at his home everything seems to go according to what Gavin wants, but when Taylor's ex-boyfriend shows up, Gavin is determined to overcome all the obstacles in his way and fight for his girl.
They embark on an emotional journey that will make every last minute count.
My Rating:
I give A Taylor-Made Life 5 beautiful, heart-wrenching and sensational stars! From the moment I read the book description, I knew I had to read it. Once in a while you just stumble upon a book that takes you on an emotional journey. This book did this and much more for me. The author did a phenomenal job of making us understand what the value of time is for a person who is asking for an extra second, minute, hour, day of their life. Taylor and Gavin are two exceptional characters. They created a life together and they made it perfect. Be prepared to laugh with Taylor and Gavin, but also to cry. When I finished this book it was almost 2 am and I was crying so much that I could not see the words in front of my eyes. *Ugly cries* Keep a box of tissues near by, you're going to need them!
I want to take a moment and say THANK YOU to author Kary Rader. This book made me understand many things. I often hear YOLO in conversations, but we are so busy in our daily routine that we forget that we have one life to live and that we must make the most of it. Sometimes a book can teach you things, A Taylor-Made Life sure did.
Fantastic work by author Kary Rader!
August 12, 2013
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If I could give this book 10 stars - I would - in a heartbeat....5 stars just doesn't cut it, not even close!
Wow. Just WOW. I knew going into this that someone was going to probably die...cancer is like it's own nasty character in this book.
This journey starts out more as an young adult book but slowly turns into a new adult book because, lets face it a 17-18 year old person with treatable cancer that can not find a match would make any teenager grow up fast and live as much as possible with the time left.
Gavin was all alone before Taylor came into his life, even though he ran a very successful company. He tried to keep his feelings for her at bay because of their 7 year age difference but when it comes to true love, what does age have to do with anything.
This book broke me. B.R.O.K.E. M.E.
I cried, I mean full on ugly cried. Sobbing, uncontrollable sobs. I had to put my Kindle down to catch my breath and to cover my face and cry into my hands.
The author captured what it is like to watch someone that you love die from cancer. It is a horrible and unforgiving disease. Cancer is ugly and does not discriminate. It doesn't care if you are black or white, rich or poor a Christian or an atheist. It takes no prisoners and doesn't ask permission. It robs us of mothers and fathers, aunts and uncles, sisters and brothers, daughters and sons and husbands and wives.
I am in full-on book hangover mode. I feel like I was there. Going through the happiness and gut wrenching sadness. My chest hurt. I was in physical pain going through everything with the characters.
This is one of the best, most beautiful love stories I have ever read. It is up there with Hopeless, Bridges of Madison County and The Notebook.
There was no graphic sex (I love graphic sex in books) but it didn't need any. In fact, I think that it would have taken away from the beauty of the story.
I hope that the author writes a follow-up because there is more story to tell....and it should be one of strength and love because going through everything that happened can only make you stronger.
If I could give this book 10 stars - I would - in a heartbeat....5 stars just doesn't cut it, not even close!
Wow. Just WOW. I knew going into this that someone was going to probably die...cancer is like it's own nasty character in this book.
This journey starts out more as an young adult book but slowly turns into a new adult book because, lets face it a 17-18 year old person with treatable cancer that can not find a match would make any teenager grow up fast and live as much as possible with the time left.
Gavin was all alone before Taylor came into his life, even though he ran a very successful company. He tried to keep his feelings for her at bay because of their 7 year age difference but when it comes to true love, what does age have to do with anything.
This book broke me. B.R.O.K.E. M.E.
I cried, I mean full on ugly cried. Sobbing, uncontrollable sobs. I had to put my Kindle down to catch my breath and to cover my face and cry into my hands.
The author captured what it is like to watch someone that you love die from cancer. It is a horrible and unforgiving disease. Cancer is ugly and does not discriminate. It doesn't care if you are black or white, rich or poor a Christian or an atheist. It takes no prisoners and doesn't ask permission. It robs us of mothers and fathers, aunts and uncles, sisters and brothers, daughters and sons and husbands and wives.
I am in full-on book hangover mode. I feel like I was there. Going through the happiness and gut wrenching sadness. My chest hurt. I was in physical pain going through everything with the characters.
This is one of the best, most beautiful love stories I have ever read. It is up there with Hopeless, Bridges of Madison County and The Notebook.
There was no graphic sex (I love graphic sex in books) but it didn't need any. In fact, I think that it would have taken away from the beauty of the story.
I hope that the author writes a follow-up because there is more story to tell....and it should be one of strength and love because going through everything that happened can only make you stronger.
August 23, 2013
Review/Giveaway of this book can also be found at Jackie's Book World Blog :)
*A copy of this book was provided by Author in exchange of an honest review*
An absolutely amazing story of hope and new beginnings...
I'm completely in love with this story, it's even hard for me to type a review of it without getting emotional. Reading this heartbreaking story of Taylor and Gavin, has really made me think twice about the things that I have in my life, this story is not just about two people trying to overcome death, but instead is a story full of hope and opportunities. When I was approached to read this book, I immediately jumped in to the opportunity. Knowing what the story was about didn't prepare me for what was coming. Right from the very start I was immediately pulled into the story all the way to the very end. Kary Rader does an unbelievable job of describing what the characters are going through and she makes the experience that much more heartbreaking.
Taylor's character is funny, and strong. She is a girl that doesn't give up apart from all the things that she has been through. On the other hand, Gavin is a handsome billionaire who loves gaming and is not ready to leave this world without having made something special behind. Both characters suffer and have the best moments in their lives. They both empower each other and that's what makes the story successful. The flow of the story and the details made the story a true love story in my eyes. The ending was emotional, but it really demonstrated the love that these characters have for one another. This quote “They lived the life that they were given: they loved the life they made” truly shows the overall meaning to the book. I would recommend everyone to read this story, you will not regret it.
*A copy of this book was provided by Author in exchange of an honest review*
An absolutely amazing story of hope and new beginnings...
I'm completely in love with this story, it's even hard for me to type a review of it without getting emotional. Reading this heartbreaking story of Taylor and Gavin, has really made me think twice about the things that I have in my life, this story is not just about two people trying to overcome death, but instead is a story full of hope and opportunities. When I was approached to read this book, I immediately jumped in to the opportunity. Knowing what the story was about didn't prepare me for what was coming. Right from the very start I was immediately pulled into the story all the way to the very end. Kary Rader does an unbelievable job of describing what the characters are going through and she makes the experience that much more heartbreaking.
Taylor's character is funny, and strong. She is a girl that doesn't give up apart from all the things that she has been through. On the other hand, Gavin is a handsome billionaire who loves gaming and is not ready to leave this world without having made something special behind. Both characters suffer and have the best moments in their lives. They both empower each other and that's what makes the story successful. The flow of the story and the details made the story a true love story in my eyes. The ending was emotional, but it really demonstrated the love that these characters have for one another. This quote “They lived the life that they were given: they loved the life they made” truly shows the overall meaning to the book. I would recommend everyone to read this story, you will not regret it.
September 5, 2013
A Taylor-Made Life by Kary Rader
Rating 5*****
This book was provided from the author in exchange for honest literary review.
This isn't a book it is a journey. I swear if you have any amount of heart, you won't come away from reading this story the same as you were prior to starting it. It makes you realize how important it is to cherish the days we are given, and forget about the extra wants on life.
When Taylor starts her journey, all she simply wants is to not die a virgin. When Gavin is paired to be her mentor, things will never be the same. Both of them have cancer and are living on borrowed times. There is a huge age difference, they live on opposite sides of the country...there are thousands of reasons why this will never work. Then in walks fate.
Hands down one of the most gripping and emotional books I have ever read. One minute I was sobbing hysterically the next minute holding my ribs from laughing. It takes you so accurately through the rough times in life when tragedy hits, and you have to choose either to live or wallow in self pity.
The writing is flawless. I sat down AND started this book and simply couldn't put it down. It is such an awesome story, but it is relevant fiction. Once you read it, you take a piece of the story away with you. Treasure what you have, for others are dying to get it.
I will tell you this is one of the best books you cam purchase out there. I believe everyone should read it!!!!! This will be on my top reads list for 2013. Also I have to say the author has a great concept of what a new adult read is! Not kidding go one click this like now!!!!
Happy Reading!!!!!!
Michelle McQueen
WARNING THE READING OF THIS BOOK CAUSES EXTREME TISSUE USAGE....(LOL)
Rating 5*****
This book was provided from the author in exchange for honest literary review.
This isn't a book it is a journey. I swear if you have any amount of heart, you won't come away from reading this story the same as you were prior to starting it. It makes you realize how important it is to cherish the days we are given, and forget about the extra wants on life.
When Taylor starts her journey, all she simply wants is to not die a virgin. When Gavin is paired to be her mentor, things will never be the same. Both of them have cancer and are living on borrowed times. There is a huge age difference, they live on opposite sides of the country...there are thousands of reasons why this will never work. Then in walks fate.
Hands down one of the most gripping and emotional books I have ever read. One minute I was sobbing hysterically the next minute holding my ribs from laughing. It takes you so accurately through the rough times in life when tragedy hits, and you have to choose either to live or wallow in self pity.
The writing is flawless. I sat down AND started this book and simply couldn't put it down. It is such an awesome story, but it is relevant fiction. Once you read it, you take a piece of the story away with you. Treasure what you have, for others are dying to get it.
I will tell you this is one of the best books you cam purchase out there. I believe everyone should read it!!!!! This will be on my top reads list for 2013. Also I have to say the author has a great concept of what a new adult read is! Not kidding go one click this like now!!!!
Happy Reading!!!!!!
Michelle McQueen
WARNING THE READING OF THIS BOOK CAUSES EXTREME TISSUE USAGE....(LOL)
June 2, 2015
5 beautiful, ugly cry stars!!
This story had me from the very first chapter. I found myself reading it while cooking, and sneaking in pages whenever I could. I didn't want to put it down.
Taylor. What an amazing girl. Full of strength and stubbornness, even when life has knocked her down, repeatedly. Her will and determination to have something normal in her life endeared me to her automatically. Her relationship with her mom was beautiful and everything it should be in a situation like that. I loved the candidness and humor between the two of them. Maureen was a pillar of strength and always had the right amount of humor to insert into a tough situation. Her love knew no bounds. It even cracked through the tough exterior of Gavin.
Speaking of Gavin....reading his thoughts and watching him crack...it was like I knew him and he told me everything. He was exactly what Taylor needed and Taylor and her family were exactly what Gavin always needed but never thought he'd have.
I didn't just read this story. I felt it. It rocked me to my very core. There are some books you read and enjoy; then there are some books that you read and LIVE...and know that you will never look at life the same way. This is the later.
I'm on my way to scour social media and stalk (in the good way) Kary Rader. She has a new fan and I need more of her words. More of these feelings. Even if I sobbed so hard I totally ugly cried. Snot nosed, ugly cried. I'm glad I was alone when I finished this book...but I can't wait to live with what I've taken away from it.
**Reviewed for Kylie's Fiction Addiction. A copy of the book was generously gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
This story had me from the very first chapter. I found myself reading it while cooking, and sneaking in pages whenever I could. I didn't want to put it down.
Taylor. What an amazing girl. Full of strength and stubbornness, even when life has knocked her down, repeatedly. Her will and determination to have something normal in her life endeared me to her automatically. Her relationship with her mom was beautiful and everything it should be in a situation like that. I loved the candidness and humor between the two of them. Maureen was a pillar of strength and always had the right amount of humor to insert into a tough situation. Her love knew no bounds. It even cracked through the tough exterior of Gavin.
Speaking of Gavin....reading his thoughts and watching him crack...it was like I knew him and he told me everything. He was exactly what Taylor needed and Taylor and her family were exactly what Gavin always needed but never thought he'd have.
I didn't just read this story. I felt it. It rocked me to my very core. There are some books you read and enjoy; then there are some books that you read and LIVE...and know that you will never look at life the same way. This is the later.
I'm on my way to scour social media and stalk (in the good way) Kary Rader. She has a new fan and I need more of her words. More of these feelings. Even if I sobbed so hard I totally ugly cried. Snot nosed, ugly cried. I'm glad I was alone when I finished this book...but I can't wait to live with what I've taken away from it.
**Reviewed for Kylie's Fiction Addiction. A copy of the book was generously gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
August 2, 2013
**A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
Actual rating: 3.5
I'm always looking for a good love story, and this book had all the right elements. Even though I found the pacing to be a bit too fast, and the romance occurring in an unrealistic timeframe, the realism of the characters and their heart-wrenching situation undermined these flaws. The descriptive language and interesting characters pulled me in from page one. I loved Taylor and Gavin from the start. The author did a great job of setting up obstacles for them, including the barriers their separate illnesses presented, and their age gap. This story shows the resiliency of the human spirit to survive, and to love as much as possible in the short time given to us.
The only other flaws the story presented were the accidental switching to third person during the first person narrative sections, and some of Taylor's euphemism's seemed too tame for a teenager. Granted, it was a mark of her character that she didn't swear, but some of them came off as a little silly.
With that said, I think that second flaw also made Taylor's voice unique. She presented as a strong character who wasn't afraid to be herself and go after what she wanted. I also found Taylor and Gavin's video game references in their thoughts to be both unique and endearing.
Ultimately, this is a wonderful story that will pull you in and leave you thinking about the delicacy and wonder of the human experience after you have finished reading.
Actual rating: 3.5
I'm always looking for a good love story, and this book had all the right elements. Even though I found the pacing to be a bit too fast, and the romance occurring in an unrealistic timeframe, the realism of the characters and their heart-wrenching situation undermined these flaws. The descriptive language and interesting characters pulled me in from page one. I loved Taylor and Gavin from the start. The author did a great job of setting up obstacles for them, including the barriers their separate illnesses presented, and their age gap. This story shows the resiliency of the human spirit to survive, and to love as much as possible in the short time given to us.
The only other flaws the story presented were the accidental switching to third person during the first person narrative sections, and some of Taylor's euphemism's seemed too tame for a teenager. Granted, it was a mark of her character that she didn't swear, but some of them came off as a little silly.
With that said, I think that second flaw also made Taylor's voice unique. She presented as a strong character who wasn't afraid to be herself and go after what she wanted. I also found Taylor and Gavin's video game references in their thoughts to be both unique and endearing.
Ultimately, this is a wonderful story that will pull you in and leave you thinking about the delicacy and wonder of the human experience after you have finished reading.
August 8, 2013
I was given this book for an honest review by the New Adult Book club
Let me start by saying...
I needed a hug after this one.
Kary Rader has painted a great story that everyone should read. I laughed, I fought back tears but still ended up like this:
From the very beginning of the book, I loved Gavin and Taylor. I loved watching her plan fall perfectly into action and I loved the transition from watching both characters point of view. Gavin was the perfect guy in this book and I fell in love with him too. It was painful to read things he went through, but it only made me love him more.
Bottom line, READ THIS BOOK! No if ands or buts about it. I'm glad I took the time from my busy schedule to.
Let me start by saying...
I needed a hug after this one.
Kary Rader has painted a great story that everyone should read. I laughed, I fought back tears but still ended up like this:
From the very beginning of the book, I loved Gavin and Taylor. I loved watching her plan fall perfectly into action and I loved the transition from watching both characters point of view. Gavin was the perfect guy in this book and I fell in love with him too. It was painful to read things he went through, but it only made me love him more.
Bottom line, READ THIS BOOK! No if ands or buts about it. I'm glad I took the time from my busy schedule to.
August 27, 2013
What an amazingly touching story A Taylor-Made Life was.one of those stories that touches you and brings the tears.I haven't had a book make me cry until I read this one.Taylor Smith is dying.She is also a virgin.She does NOT want to die a virgin.Gavin is Taylor's mentor,who is also dying of cancer.Come to find out that His frozen sperm and Her frozen Eggs just might be a cure for Taylor's cancer.
Seriously Can you not see how the tear works start?I know how I wrote it it feels cut and paste.It is NOT.I never try to give spoilers.That is simply my fast way of summarizing the story.It shows what true love is and the true meaning of it by selflessly giving someone something so close to you and knowing you will never get to enjoy that.Gosh hand me a stinking tissue.It his harder because I have lost a family member to cancer and have a friend fighting cancer now.Im sorry Im cutting this review short.Read A Taylor-Made Life.You will LOVE it.Have tissues handy.
July 9, 2013
OMG Wow really wow, a very moving book that you'll need tissues for while reading. Normally a book can make me shed few tears or cry alittle but this book was greatly written and just drew you into what the characters were going through that i was brawling my eyes out by the end.
Taylor Smith doesn’t want to die a virgin, she was very strong willed and mature for her age cause of her going through being a terminally-ill leukemia patient. She is also a very caring person,helping and making friends with other patients even if there is a chance she or they wont make it.
Taylor gives Gavin something that money can't buy and she changes him for the better, brings a spark, a life to his short life but even with the health issues there is some other drama they have to deal with and get through and some serious choices to make.
Taylor Smith doesn’t want to die a virgin, she was very strong willed and mature for her age cause of her going through being a terminally-ill leukemia patient. She is also a very caring person,helping and making friends with other patients even if there is a chance she or they wont make it.
Taylor gives Gavin something that money can't buy and she changes him for the better, brings a spark, a life to his short life but even with the health issues there is some other drama they have to deal with and get through and some serious choices to make.
July 19, 2013
After reading the blurb for this book I knew it was going to be sad, but OMG I spent about the last 20% of this book blubbering like a baby. My poor husband had no idea what was wrong. When i told him it was just a sad book he was like 'well stop reading' I replied with a 'No i have to know what happens.'
And that is the beauty of this book it is just so hard to put down. I'll admit at the start I found the alternating 1stPOV and 3rdPOV chapters a little frustrating but by about half way through I didn't even notice it any more.
There are definitely some hard to deal with topics in this book but they a written in such a compassionate manner that your find yourself cheering Gavin and Taylor on.
If you don't mind a tear jerker i would definitely recommend this book 4 out of 5
And that is the beauty of this book it is just so hard to put down. I'll admit at the start I found the alternating 1stPOV and 3rdPOV chapters a little frustrating but by about half way through I didn't even notice it any more.
There are definitely some hard to deal with topics in this book but they a written in such a compassionate manner that your find yourself cheering Gavin and Taylor on.
If you don't mind a tear jerker i would definitely recommend this book 4 out of 5
August 18, 2013
I'm choking up just thinking of writing my review.
Okay, this book is amazing. The emotions are so vivid. I had read the reviews before I started reading this book, so I was prepared to shed a few tears, but I was not prepared for how this book affected me. This story tugged at my heart like no other. I love emotional reads--I love books that make me FEEL--and this story did just that.
*Sigh* If you only read one book this year, then read A Taylor Made Life. And I'm warning you to prepare yourself as much as you can before reading. This story WILL make you cry.
A HUGE BRAVO to the author!
Okay, this book is amazing. The emotions are so vivid. I had read the reviews before I started reading this book, so I was prepared to shed a few tears, but I was not prepared for how this book affected me. This story tugged at my heart like no other. I love emotional reads--I love books that make me FEEL--and this story did just that.
*Sigh* If you only read one book this year, then read A Taylor Made Life. And I'm warning you to prepare yourself as much as you can before reading. This story WILL make you cry.
A HUGE BRAVO to the author!
May 31, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. I laughed at times, and cried as well. The fast paced story of love between the characters was hypnotizing and beautiful. Gavin & Taylor stole my heart from the beginning.
They are already going through so much when they meet and then they continue to make the best of the terrible situation they are put in.
I found myself rooting for the characters. The subject matter in this story is something everyone has dealt with... in one form or the other.
I wish I could tell you so much more but I don't want to give anything away. I will say I am not a book crier, but this book had me weeping in the end. Like big huge ugly tears.
To me... this is a must read.
They are already going through so much when they meet and then they continue to make the best of the terrible situation they are put in.
I found myself rooting for the characters. The subject matter in this story is something everyone has dealt with... in one form or the other.
I wish I could tell you so much more but I don't want to give anything away. I will say I am not a book crier, but this book had me weeping in the end. Like big huge ugly tears.
To me... this is a must read.
September 12, 2014
I was lucky to be given this book to read by the author. I've not read a book by this author before, but I certainly will be adding her to my list of 'good' authors.
I'm not going to tell you too much about the book because it always spoils things for me if I read long reviews about a book.
This is certainly a love story, throw in cancer and a baby and you have an emotive read. I had my hankies out yet again. I'm not a cry baby by nature, this story certainly sucks you in at the heart strings.
I'm not going to tell you too much about the book because it always spoils things for me if I read long reviews about a book.
This is certainly a love story, throw in cancer and a baby and you have an emotive read. I had my hankies out yet again. I'm not a cry baby by nature, this story certainly sucks you in at the heart strings.
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