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Attainment #1
Attainment
There are many ways to capture a person’s love, but unwilling, full attainment is never the best option.
Life hasn’t been easy for 18 year old Reese Stanford. After a traumatic incident a year ago, she has a hard time trusting any guy. She finally allows herself to fall for the heart throb, Tate Justice, only to realize he too comes with his own set of issues.
Swearing off men, she meets a beach ‘god’ who will settle for no less than all of Reese. That is at least, until she learns a truth about Tate that changes the game entirely.
Life hasn’t been easy for 18 year old Reese Stanford. After a traumatic incident a year ago, she has a hard time trusting any guy. She finally allows herself to fall for the heart throb, Tate Justice, only to realize he too comes with his own set of issues.
Swearing off men, she meets a beach ‘god’ who will settle for no less than all of Reese. That is at least, until she learns a truth about Tate that changes the game entirely.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 19, 2013
15 people are currently reading
749 people want to read
About the author
J.H. Cardwell
3 books126 followersI have spent years in the medical field; the first few as a Cardiac Specialty Nurse, and over the last decade as a Pharmaceutical and Medical Sales Representative. I have gathered mounds of experience both personally and professionally to pour into my long-time passion…writing. After years of power points in the corporate world, I am enjoying working on stories in romance fiction with my first series, The Attainment Series complete. I am now in the process of writing my first stand-alone novel. I live in a small town in NC with my husband and four children. While continuing to work in sales, I am also exploring my writing late at night and in the wee hours of the morning when my children are tucked safely in bed.
I love to hear from readers. I can be reached at juliecardwell75@gmail.com. And please like and share my Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jhcardwell
I love to hear from readers. I can be reached at juliecardwell75@gmail.com. And please like and share my Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jhcardwell
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 12, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Attainment is the story of Senior schoolgirl Reese,in her last year, who is dealing with a very traumatic event. What starts the story is her date rape, and this proceeds to impact on her relationships with guys. Tate Justice is one such guy. The very handsome athletic soon to be baseball pro, is besotted with Reese, but knows there is some issues around her intimacy with him but not the fact that she has been the victim of rape. Reese knows that these are challenging issues for her, but has made a promise to not willingly give herself to any man until she is wed. Surrounding her is a very lively gang of girls who are supportive, and the entire group have a very strong bond. But in series of mishaps, misunderstandings and manipulation, Tate and Reese have a very rocky path to their relationship. With the complication of the rich and handsome John declaring himself as her suitor, Reese is confused and hurt at the turn of events affecting her love life.
Where the story starts in this book is quite shocking, but it does compel you to read on. The author then flits between POVs of both Reese, Tate and Narrator. In early points of the book, all three viewpoints are intermingled in the same chapter, and unfortunately, makes it sometimes a confusing read at that stage. Eventually, this stops and it becomes clearer, making way for a very sweet and engaging yarn. Although I must say that this and its follow up, Atonement, are reminiscient of a spectacular melodrama set in the deep south. At times you felt that you were reading a soon to be script for a daytime soap opera!
All in all it is a very simple read that you can lose yourself in for a few hours without feeling your brain has been too taxed. My overall opinion is that it was nice and entertaining with a fairly engaging storyline.
Attainment is the story of Senior schoolgirl Reese,in her last year, who is dealing with a very traumatic event. What starts the story is her date rape, and this proceeds to impact on her relationships with guys. Tate Justice is one such guy. The very handsome athletic soon to be baseball pro, is besotted with Reese, but knows there is some issues around her intimacy with him but not the fact that she has been the victim of rape. Reese knows that these are challenging issues for her, but has made a promise to not willingly give herself to any man until she is wed. Surrounding her is a very lively gang of girls who are supportive, and the entire group have a very strong bond. But in series of mishaps, misunderstandings and manipulation, Tate and Reese have a very rocky path to their relationship. With the complication of the rich and handsome John declaring himself as her suitor, Reese is confused and hurt at the turn of events affecting her love life.
Where the story starts in this book is quite shocking, but it does compel you to read on. The author then flits between POVs of both Reese, Tate and Narrator. In early points of the book, all three viewpoints are intermingled in the same chapter, and unfortunately, makes it sometimes a confusing read at that stage. Eventually, this stops and it becomes clearer, making way for a very sweet and engaging yarn. Although I must say that this and its follow up, Atonement, are reminiscient of a spectacular melodrama set in the deep south. At times you felt that you were reading a soon to be script for a daytime soap opera!
All in all it is a very simple read that you can lose yourself in for a few hours without feeling your brain has been too taxed. My overall opinion is that it was nice and entertaining with a fairly engaging storyline.
November 28, 2013
Wow this book was terrible. The POV would change from 1st to 3rd person sometimes in the same paragraph, I lost count of how many sentence fragments there were, words were misspelled or the wrong word was used (site vs. sight), and during the attempted rape scene I'm fairly certain the rapist had 3 hands for all the different places grabbed or covered at the same time. All 3 of the guys came off as stalkerish (which doesn't seem romantic to me at all) and it just seemed predictable and improbable at the same time. The characters had no depth to them, why was Reece so irresistible to anyone, that was never made clear? The author seemed confused as to what needed detail and what didn't. She twice described the main character's order at Starbucks, despite her never actually going to Starbucks (don't care how many pumps of whatever she gets) while failing to describe relationships or why certain actions were taken. I'm glad this was a free download and I only wasted a couple hours reading it.
October 31, 2013
I am the author so I'm a bit biased of course! But...I want you all to read this if you can before you read the sequel, Atonement due out November 8th! Attainment is my debut book. I'm looking forward to hearing from you. Check me out on www.jhcardwell.com and on my facebook and twitter page.
November 18, 2013
You can read more reviews at:
http://escapeinsidethepages.wordpress...
Attainment is filled with love, suspense, and plenty of teenage angst to say the least. Reese has had a pretty tough time lately, so tough that this book totally had me reaffirming my principals of drinking in clubs/parties. Luckily she has friends and her awesome boyfriend Tate to get her through this difficult time,unfortunately the worst is yet to come. Either way let me just say to you readers: don’t let yourselves be victimized ladies, make smart choices that won’t lead you into a sticky situation. If you aren’t sure of where your drink has come from or who it is that gave it to you. DO NOT DRINK IT. Be aware of everything around you, just because you’re a woman doesn’t mean you’re helpless….okay let me get off my soapbox and continue with this review.
J.H. Cardwell did a nice job of depicting the reality of situations young girls face, it opened my eyes a little more and has made me even more hyper-aware than I was before. In regards to these situations, Reese just happened to be a trouble magnet in this book, at points it had me thinking “really, this is happening to her again?” but these horrifying situations added to the suspense and entertainment of the book for sure. I also really loved how Christianity played its role in this book, it made it all the more real for me, and I commend J.H. Cardwell, for sticking to her beliefs by reflecting them in this book.
Each character was developed well, along with the relationships they had with each other. I found myself completely torn at times between which guy I should root for (and believe me it was difficult, there were many). In fact it was almost a little frustrating at how quickly Reese was able to switch her feelings she had for each guy. I won’t list any names besides Tate but it was a tricky decision to decide who I wanted to be with Reese at some points of the book. I have to say though that Tate is a pretty good male lead to have. He’s athletic, super well built, and did I mention extremely protective and jealous? Needless to say there was plenty of beautiful romance to go around.
I was also pretty pleased with how well Cardwell mixed in the action between the scenes of romance, seeing as this book is specifically a romance, I wasn’t expecting too much else besides the making of a relationship. But turns out there was a lot more coming at me in Attainment than was to be expected. Let’s just say it starts off pretty scary, and as the plot plays out there are new twists and turns that you won’t see coming.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Attainment. It was an easy page turner filled with boundless love against all odd, suspense, and realistic outcomes. I would definitely recommend you read this book.
http://escapeinsidethepages.wordpress...
Attainment is filled with love, suspense, and plenty of teenage angst to say the least. Reese has had a pretty tough time lately, so tough that this book totally had me reaffirming my principals of drinking in clubs/parties. Luckily she has friends and her awesome boyfriend Tate to get her through this difficult time,unfortunately the worst is yet to come. Either way let me just say to you readers: don’t let yourselves be victimized ladies, make smart choices that won’t lead you into a sticky situation. If you aren’t sure of where your drink has come from or who it is that gave it to you. DO NOT DRINK IT. Be aware of everything around you, just because you’re a woman doesn’t mean you’re helpless….okay let me get off my soapbox and continue with this review.
J.H. Cardwell did a nice job of depicting the reality of situations young girls face, it opened my eyes a little more and has made me even more hyper-aware than I was before. In regards to these situations, Reese just happened to be a trouble magnet in this book, at points it had me thinking “really, this is happening to her again?” but these horrifying situations added to the suspense and entertainment of the book for sure. I also really loved how Christianity played its role in this book, it made it all the more real for me, and I commend J.H. Cardwell, for sticking to her beliefs by reflecting them in this book.
Each character was developed well, along with the relationships they had with each other. I found myself completely torn at times between which guy I should root for (and believe me it was difficult, there were many). In fact it was almost a little frustrating at how quickly Reese was able to switch her feelings she had for each guy. I won’t list any names besides Tate but it was a tricky decision to decide who I wanted to be with Reese at some points of the book. I have to say though that Tate is a pretty good male lead to have. He’s athletic, super well built, and did I mention extremely protective and jealous? Needless to say there was plenty of beautiful romance to go around.
I was also pretty pleased with how well Cardwell mixed in the action between the scenes of romance, seeing as this book is specifically a romance, I wasn’t expecting too much else besides the making of a relationship. But turns out there was a lot more coming at me in Attainment than was to be expected. Let’s just say it starts off pretty scary, and as the plot plays out there are new twists and turns that you won’t see coming.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Attainment. It was an easy page turner filled with boundless love against all odd, suspense, and realistic outcomes. I would definitely recommend you read this book.
December 9, 2013
I won a copy from Goodreads First Reads.
The book starts of with the rape of Reese Stanford. Yes, you did just read my last sentence. I'll repeat it again. The book starts of with the rape of Reese Stanford, from the rapist POV.
Normally, books don't start of with such a descriptive detail on that. But this book did. I wouldn't be surprise if everyone found it to be the most disgusting thing in the world. At least the author could had given us some cloudy details, but not the big thing. Not every detail. Err...the disgusting details about the planning of the date rape. (Now we all know how to plan a rape. It's like one of those videos that tell you what information to not put on your internet profile. In the end, you learn how to stalk people and learn their possible passwords).
Onto more pleasant details. Attainment isn't a bad book; it just needs to be 'improved.' (Ugh! It is so weird to be writing the review of the first book after writing the review of the second. The sequel is on my Goodreads page, because I abandoned the book).
The plot. I hate how predictable it is. Partially, the reason why the book is so predictable is because the rapist's POV is occasionally there. With that, it takes away the element of surprise. Not to mention that the book is also told from Tate's POV and Reese's POV. It's like all the surprise comes from characters who are mostly 2D.
The writing. It annoys me that Reese/the author goes on and on and on, without dialogue. Sometimes the writing and paragraphs and chapters reminds me of text messages people send me when they are giving me a recap of their lives. But the writing does keep you slightly invested. Especially with all the deja vu talk.
Reese herself is annoying. She's a classic example of a Mary Sue. Crazy perfect. Beautiful. Tortured in some way, but that part of her never comes out until it's the big moment of the book. Or whenever Carter appears.
It's John who is worth looking at. He's the guy to watch.
Rating: Two out of Five
The book starts of with the rape of Reese Stanford. Yes, you did just read my last sentence. I'll repeat it again. The book starts of with the rape of Reese Stanford, from the rapist POV.
Normally, books don't start of with such a descriptive detail on that. But this book did. I wouldn't be surprise if everyone found it to be the most disgusting thing in the world. At least the author could had given us some cloudy details, but not the big thing. Not every detail. Err...the disgusting details about the planning of the date rape. (Now we all know how to plan a rape. It's like one of those videos that tell you what information to not put on your internet profile. In the end, you learn how to stalk people and learn their possible passwords).
Onto more pleasant details. Attainment isn't a bad book; it just needs to be 'improved.' (Ugh! It is so weird to be writing the review of the first book after writing the review of the second. The sequel is on my Goodreads page, because I abandoned the book).
The plot. I hate how predictable it is. Partially, the reason why the book is so predictable is because the rapist's POV is occasionally there. With that, it takes away the element of surprise. Not to mention that the book is also told from Tate's POV and Reese's POV. It's like all the surprise comes from characters who are mostly 2D.
The writing. It annoys me that Reese/the author goes on and on and on, without dialogue. Sometimes the writing and paragraphs and chapters reminds me of text messages people send me when they are giving me a recap of their lives. But the writing does keep you slightly invested. Especially with all the deja vu talk.
Reese herself is annoying. She's a classic example of a Mary Sue. Crazy perfect. Beautiful. Tortured in some way, but that part of her never comes out until it's the big moment of the book. Or whenever Carter appears.
It's John who is worth looking at. He's the guy to watch.
Rating: Two out of Five
August 20, 2013
I was drawn in to this book from the shocking prologue! Rape, murder, romance and a "who-done-it", is all wrapped up into one fantastic read! JH Cardwell has done a beautiful job of making you want to follow these characters to see where life takes them. The love triangle makes you want to pick sides, like in Twilight with Bella, Edward and Jacob. Who would not be drawn in to a story with two "hotties" like Tate and John fighting over the same girl. This would be every girl's dream! After a terrifying date rape, Reese has to choose between her high school sweetheart and the beach god she met while on vacation. Reese struggles with her inner self trying to stick to the values she was brought up with and a lesson can be learned from this book for all teens. I would recommend this book for a discussion between Mother's and Daughter's for all types of situations that teen girl's can find themselves in. If you love Nicholas Sparks books , then you will also love this romantic story that takes place in a small town in North Carolina and on the North Carolina coast, as well. If you like the romance stories of author's Barbara Freethy and Nora Roberts, then you will LOVE Attainment. I am waiting on pins and needles for the sequel, Atonement, to find out if Reese lives happily ever after. How will Reese handle her love life as she goes off to college??? Will she end up with Tate or John??? Will she keep the promise her "promise ring" signifies??? Cannot wait for Atonement to continue the saga in Reese's life. I don't want it to end!!! I hear there will be a third book as well. Oh my! This just made my day!! I would HIGHLY recommend this book. Well written for a "first" book for this author!
May 2, 2016
I have been trying to finish this one and unfortunately I just can't do it. This Book has many positive reviews out there, and I know there are many others who will enjoy the story. However, this one isn't for me. There were many things about this story that just didn't work for me personally. I thought that the writing style of the author was hard to get into. It felt extremely choppy to me with very little flow. I also felt like there were a lot of basic errors that went beyond just a few editing mistakes. Most of the sentences were run-ons and filled with too many descriptive words and punctuation marks. I thought that the author also tended to rehash several things and details over and over, and it was repetitive to the point that it was hard for me to stay interested.
I also felt like the story and the characters were unlikable. The personalities were flat and I found them to be not only immature, but some were also extremely damaged. I can handle a damaged character and some dark plot elements, but I felt that these were taken too far to even be redeemable. I only made it about 30% into this story, and for me the plot was already very over the top bordering on ridiculous.
Like I said, there are many people who have read and enjoyed this book. There are probably many others out there who will also like this story. For me personally though, I just couldn't get into this book because of the reasons above. I would recommend that you read the blurb and a few reviews of this book if you are considering purchase. Despite my personal taste, this one might be a book that you would enjoy. Beware of the serious content though and keep in mind that this book does contain disturbing situations including rape.
**Copy provided by Author for honest review**
I also felt like the story and the characters were unlikable. The personalities were flat and I found them to be not only immature, but some were also extremely damaged. I can handle a damaged character and some dark plot elements, but I felt that these were taken too far to even be redeemable. I only made it about 30% into this story, and for me the plot was already very over the top bordering on ridiculous.
Like I said, there are many people who have read and enjoyed this book. There are probably many others out there who will also like this story. For me personally though, I just couldn't get into this book because of the reasons above. I would recommend that you read the blurb and a few reviews of this book if you are considering purchase. Despite my personal taste, this one might be a book that you would enjoy. Beware of the serious content though and keep in mind that this book does contain disturbing situations including rape.
**Copy provided by Author for honest review**
July 20, 2013
First off, it's started kinda slow for me, partly cause I am kinda irritated on how childlike the female character here is... Guess cause she's brought up differently.... she wears a promise ring to only give her virginity to her husband to be. The way her conversation goes, I picture a 14 yrs old talking, and it kinda sounds scripted at times... hard to explain, it's the way it is written.... But story wise, I like it... I'm rooting for John though... Tate is alright, but to be involve with ur ex's mom, a no no.... Rape, murder, drugs, it's here.... The suspense of what happened not so much cause its kinda quite obvious while you read, but it's still good. I am definitely looking forward to the next book. It is not a cliffhanger but the story of Tate, John and Reese continues.
February 6, 2014
Just finished reading a book, I have given the review for it all ready and now I am waiting for the Seqol of Atonement, the first book is Attainment. I think Julie, did a faboulous job on her first book, now I want to read the full series. J.H. Cardwell wrote one of my favorite now all time books of reviewing. I hope someday I have a book series like she does with the Attainment series. Keep up the great work J.H. Cardwell. I stayed up all night because I wanted to finish the book and if it gets me to want to stay up all night just to read it the book I give a five star review.
July 19, 2013
Amazing book! Really hope Tate and Reese stay together - but Lisa really needs to bugger off and Tate needs to be the one to make her do it. After all that woman has done, can he not see that she is really bad news? She has a son she can lean on - she doesn't need to run to her former (I hope! Cause they be all kinds of yucky!) lover and ruining Reese's happiness.
January 24, 2014
So I really wanted to love this book but too many times I found myself rolling my eyes. This book was just ok. I felt it was written childish, like something my daughter could write. The 3 loves triangles were too much. Don't get me wrong I love love that has conflict but three different men....it was just too much for my tastes. I would give this book a 2.5
August 20, 2013
Great book for a first time author. Sweet story line and typical high school romances, behavior, drama, etc. Took me back to when I was in school. I'm looking forward to the sequel but I think Tate's jealousy is going to be his downfall.
December 4, 2013
Great book. Kept me reading late into the night. Can not wait to find out what happens when they go off to college and I just know John will be showing up! I need to know what his deal is!!! Who will Reese end up with and what could possibly happen to her next!! I'm starting book 2 NOW!
March 20, 2014
If you haven't bought this series I highly encourage you to do so. They are wonderfully written. It has romance, morals, drama, suspense, and much more. I giggled (out loud at times). I gasped. I cried. And I had to fan myself a few times while reading too!
January 24, 2014
I only got through the prologue and Couldn't be bothered to read any further. The point of view switched back and forth, and I couldn't really tell what was going on.
December 21, 2014
In my opinion, one of the worst books ever.
August 4, 2013
Good book. Looking forward to the next one.
December 23, 2018
A good story with lots of little twists and turns.
January 16, 2014
I would like to thank We ♥ YA Books! and the author J. H Cardwell for allowing to read this book for an honest review.
I am not sure where to start this review, I am trying to be completely honest with myself, I was a little confused at the beginning of the book for the many changes of POV and I seriously went back to read the chapter again and again until I figured whose POV was. There was a lot of descriptive narration, I was kinda bored, I appreciate details it gives my imagination more to work with but when it is way too much, I lose interest in the story. The story started in a dramatic way, and I felt sorry for Reese; noone should experienced such hideous act, but at the same time I don't like when instead of fighting as a survivor, she relies on being a victim. I enjoy and love triangles, I really like it when there's two gorgeous young men fightin over the love of a woman, but this time it really got on my nerves, I mean if Reese still have feelings towards Carter, ("Jerface" to me) then why in the world of beach gods would she date Tate?, anyways Tate is alright a little too possesive and extremely patient with Reese, if I were a guy I would be like "Sayonara", "See ya". I get all the religious meaning behind staying pure until marriage and all that but come on with Reese and if she was too traumatized after the attack wouldn't she stay away from males? And the attack, ok so the police work?, , well I am not a detective and Law and Order:SVU is not 100% accurate. So Benson and Ice-T were not involved.
Well, then we got a twist, more like a tornado in Kansas with Dorothy and Toto, and Reese and Tate after what happened afterwards was just not right, I hate when friends trying to do something good it backfires and lies are just not a great way to end things, she should of have faced her problems, she hid after the attack, and did it again after Tate I think that Reese was just too coward to confront her issues and to lazy to find a solution.
So it didn't surprise me that she goes to the beach for the summer to stay away from her unresolved issues with Tate and Carter, so then she meets John, the Beach God, (ok so now instead of a triangle, now is a square o0 wow!!!! WOW!!!) and he wasn't just majestic gorgeous and a COLLEGE GRADUATE, but just perfect!!, so if she is only a high school graduate, it kinda doesn't make sense why a mature young man will be doing with a minor... Anyways, from being too religious to this I was shock that she would of go along with receiving his gifts, (oh yeah forgot to mention he is rich, like dirty rich, the whole package, looks, money, intelligence, chivalry and a career) but then again , yeah that's right, wouldn't this barely graduated from high school girls know the difference between boys and men? what happened to "Do not speak to strangers"? to stay together to avoid "things"!!!! Nope, nay, no, nada, finito, this group of girls just too....... I can't find the right adjective to properly describe it. So Tate comes to the rescue, yaay!(*Sarcastic-me*).... and there was some !!!!, (ok, so now, what happened to staying pure and all the religious mojo thrown at the beginning?). Then we got another twist ( oh yeah!!!! it was like a tropical storm in the Pacific turning into an huricane then to cyclone), so yeah, speechless!!, and well, just not words left to continue this review.
Sorry Mrs Cardwell it was really hard for me to identify myself with the all goodie-welldone-overachiever Reese, and I really loved Chloe,(whoop whoop Ole' Chloe) of all the characters, she was the only one that felt real to me, and probably Josh, Carter's older brother for his sense of justice!
I am not sure where to start this review, I am trying to be completely honest with myself, I was a little confused at the beginning of the book for the many changes of POV and I seriously went back to read the chapter again and again until I figured whose POV was. There was a lot of descriptive narration, I was kinda bored, I appreciate details it gives my imagination more to work with but when it is way too much, I lose interest in the story. The story started in a dramatic way, and I felt sorry for Reese; noone should experienced such hideous act, but at the same time I don't like when instead of fighting as a survivor, she relies on being a victim. I enjoy and love triangles, I really like it when there's two gorgeous young men fightin over the love of a woman, but this time it really got on my nerves, I mean if Reese still have feelings towards Carter, ("Jerface" to me) then why in the world of beach gods would she date Tate?, anyways Tate is alright a little too possesive and extremely patient with Reese, if I were a guy I would be like "Sayonara", "See ya". I get all the religious meaning behind staying pure until marriage and all that but come on with Reese and if she was too traumatized after the attack wouldn't she stay away from males? And the attack, ok so the police work?, , well I am not a detective and Law and Order:SVU is not 100% accurate. So Benson and Ice-T were not involved.
Well, then we got a twist, more like a tornado in Kansas with Dorothy and Toto, and Reese and Tate after what happened afterwards was just not right, I hate when friends trying to do something good it backfires and lies are just not a great way to end things, she should of have faced her problems, she hid after the attack, and did it again after Tate I think that Reese was just too coward to confront her issues and to lazy to find a solution.
So it didn't surprise me that she goes to the beach for the summer to stay away from her unresolved issues with Tate and Carter, so then she meets John, the Beach God, (ok so now instead of a triangle, now is a square o0 wow!!!! WOW!!!) and he wasn't just majestic gorgeous and a COLLEGE GRADUATE, but just perfect!!, so if she is only a high school graduate, it kinda doesn't make sense why a mature young man will be doing with a minor... Anyways, from being too religious to this I was shock that she would of go along with receiving his gifts, (oh yeah forgot to mention he is rich, like dirty rich, the whole package, looks, money, intelligence, chivalry and a career) but then again , yeah that's right, wouldn't this barely graduated from high school girls know the difference between boys and men? what happened to "Do not speak to strangers"? to stay together to avoid "things"!!!! Nope, nay, no, nada, finito, this group of girls just too....... I can't find the right adjective to properly describe it. So Tate comes to the rescue, yaay!(*Sarcastic-me*).... and there was some !!!!, (ok, so now, what happened to staying pure and all the religious mojo thrown at the beginning?). Then we got another twist ( oh yeah!!!! it was like a tropical storm in the Pacific turning into an huricane then to cyclone), so yeah, speechless!!, and well, just not words left to continue this review.
Sorry Mrs Cardwell it was really hard for me to identify myself with the all goodie-welldone-overachiever Reese, and I really loved Chloe,(whoop whoop Ole' Chloe) of all the characters, she was the only one that felt real to me, and probably Josh, Carter's older brother for his sense of justice!
August 4, 2016
I received a copy of Attainment in exchange for an honest review.
The story is about Reese Stanford.
She is beautiful, smart, has a solid group of friends/family and everyone seems to want her. She is finishing high school and is preparing to go off to Wake Forest University in the fall. Reese seems to be the center of the universe for some people -- all of whom feel they are destined to claim her as their own. This story has deception, drama, love/lust, mystery, obsession and more.
Bachelor #1 - Carter -- The ex boyfriend who is obsessed with Reese and has a secret that could be the major deal breaker for him getting back with her. He left her during the toughest time in her life thus far.
Bachelor #2 - Tate -- Reese's current boyfriend. the one that Reese can see in her future...and the jealous type. He has secrets that make her second guess his motives.
Bachelor #3 - John - Beach God who too quickly falls in love with Reese and tries to steal her away with his money and charm. He is very persistent.
Three gorgeous guys who all want her...which one will she choose?
I could envision this story as a soap opera. There were some things that bugged me about the story, including how someone would have that much luck and not at the same time with men. Because of this being so soap opera like, it took me a bit to read and really digest what was going on. Some parts were tough to read, especially in the beginning. By the end of the story, I was confused as to why so much could happen to one person in such a short time period.
This book wasn't exactly my cup of tea, but I give the author credit for telling a different type of story. I'm not familiar with Ms. Cardwell's work, but would read other books by this author.
The book ends on a cliff hanger and I'm kind of intrigued enough to attempt reading the second book. All in all, I would rate this book about three stars.
The story is about Reese Stanford.
She is beautiful, smart, has a solid group of friends/family and everyone seems to want her. She is finishing high school and is preparing to go off to Wake Forest University in the fall. Reese seems to be the center of the universe for some people -- all of whom feel they are destined to claim her as their own. This story has deception, drama, love/lust, mystery, obsession and more.
Bachelor #1 - Carter -- The ex boyfriend who is obsessed with Reese and has a secret that could be the major deal breaker for him getting back with her. He left her during the toughest time in her life thus far.
Bachelor #2 - Tate -- Reese's current boyfriend. the one that Reese can see in her future...and the jealous type. He has secrets that make her second guess his motives.
Bachelor #3 - John - Beach God who too quickly falls in love with Reese and tries to steal her away with his money and charm. He is very persistent.
Three gorgeous guys who all want her...which one will she choose?
I could envision this story as a soap opera. There were some things that bugged me about the story, including how someone would have that much luck and not at the same time with men. Because of this being so soap opera like, it took me a bit to read and really digest what was going on. Some parts were tough to read, especially in the beginning. By the end of the story, I was confused as to why so much could happen to one person in such a short time period.
This book wasn't exactly my cup of tea, but I give the author credit for telling a different type of story. I'm not familiar with Ms. Cardwell's work, but would read other books by this author.
The book ends on a cliff hanger and I'm kind of intrigued enough to attempt reading the second book. All in all, I would rate this book about three stars.
December 27, 2013
I received this book as an ARC from the author for an honest review.
I am so torn with this series, I wanted to love it so badly!! Although I did feel there could have just been a little more ‘umph’ the story line was fabulous. Ok, enough of that.. lets meet the characters.
Reese is an 18 year old girl who has been through so much in such a short time. After being date raped but her boyfriend, Carter, he took off and left her hurting, alone, scared, and drugged… great boyfriend huh? Although, she has no idea it was him!! Having significantly changing her life, she finds herself unable to trust any guy.
After finally moving on, she begins to date Tate. Tate is everything she could ever want in a man. Well, that is until Carter walks back into her life. She begins a whirlwind of emotions… loving Carter, loving Tate.. finding out about a twisted affair that Tate had with Carter's mother… a lot happening all at once.
Deciding to spend time away from it all, her and her three closest friends take off to the beach for a summer break. Only she then unexpectedly falls for a handsome and rich young man, John. After spending about an hour with John, she madly in love with him?? Three different guys all fighting for her heart. This is about where I started to not like Reese…
Ok, so while the character line started to get to me after a while, I did enjoy the plot of it all. Heartache, drama, affairs, jealousy, even a little bit of murder thrown in there. It was a definately a page turner because there was so much going that you couldn't help but want to know what happened next! And of course, the cliff hanger… Which brings me to Atonement. Please be sure to check out that review also.
I am defiantly curious to see what J.H. Cardwell has in store for us next!
I am so torn with this series, I wanted to love it so badly!! Although I did feel there could have just been a little more ‘umph’ the story line was fabulous. Ok, enough of that.. lets meet the characters.
Reese is an 18 year old girl who has been through so much in such a short time. After being date raped but her boyfriend, Carter, he took off and left her hurting, alone, scared, and drugged… great boyfriend huh? Although, she has no idea it was him!! Having significantly changing her life, she finds herself unable to trust any guy.
After finally moving on, she begins to date Tate. Tate is everything she could ever want in a man. Well, that is until Carter walks back into her life. She begins a whirlwind of emotions… loving Carter, loving Tate.. finding out about a twisted affair that Tate had with Carter's mother… a lot happening all at once.
Deciding to spend time away from it all, her and her three closest friends take off to the beach for a summer break. Only she then unexpectedly falls for a handsome and rich young man, John. After spending about an hour with John, she madly in love with him?? Three different guys all fighting for her heart. This is about where I started to not like Reese…
Ok, so while the character line started to get to me after a while, I did enjoy the plot of it all. Heartache, drama, affairs, jealousy, even a little bit of murder thrown in there. It was a definately a page turner because there was so much going that you couldn't help but want to know what happened next! And of course, the cliff hanger… Which brings me to Atonement. Please be sure to check out that review also.
I am defiantly curious to see what J.H. Cardwell has in store for us next!
October 31, 2013
Eighteen year old Reese Standford has had a rough life. After a relationship gone wrong she has a hard time trusting any guy. When she finally starts to put the past behind her and let herself fall for Tate Justice she finds out he has a spotted history and that brings doubts to her again. In need of a break, Reese and her girlfriends head to the beach where they meet a group of hotties. One of these hotties, John, falls for her and swears to be there when she really needs him even if it is in the future not the present.
Attainment is a story of rape, murder, and romance. J.H. Cardwell wrapped it up in a perfect present for her readers. There is a great love triangle with two hotties fighting over the same girl. The high school sweetheart and the beach guy both want to win the girl. I know that I want John to win, as I felt that Tate was a tad overwhelming. I am waiting to find out what happens in the second book Atonement. As a mom of a teenager I am seriously hoping that she makes the right decision and finally has her happy ending. The pain and struggles she felt after being raped pulled at my heart, but I was proud of how she found the help she needed and was able to try to move on. I felt that Reese was an extremely strong girl with a great head on her shoulders. If she can go on to college and keep that strength I feel that she will be okay.
Adults and young adults definitely should read Attainment by J.H. Cardwell. It is a story that anyone who was every a teenage girl can enjoy. Book Two, Atonement, cannot come soon enough.
Attainment is a story of rape, murder, and romance. J.H. Cardwell wrapped it up in a perfect present for her readers. There is a great love triangle with two hotties fighting over the same girl. The high school sweetheart and the beach guy both want to win the girl. I know that I want John to win, as I felt that Tate was a tad overwhelming. I am waiting to find out what happens in the second book Atonement. As a mom of a teenager I am seriously hoping that she makes the right decision and finally has her happy ending. The pain and struggles she felt after being raped pulled at my heart, but I was proud of how she found the help she needed and was able to try to move on. I felt that Reese was an extremely strong girl with a great head on her shoulders. If she can go on to college and keep that strength I feel that she will be okay.
Adults and young adults definitely should read Attainment by J.H. Cardwell. It is a story that anyone who was every a teenage girl can enjoy. Book Two, Atonement, cannot come soon enough.
November 12, 2013
I will start this review by saying, this was....it was probably me.
Reese had been through a lot. She was date raped, had problems dealing with certain social situation and was stung my the lost of contact with her boyfriend who moved away. She kept to her close knit group of friends as a way to protect herself from the unknown and relied on her family and her strong sense of faith to guide her. At first, I really liked her. But then I started to question what she was doing. She vacillated between Tate, Carter and then the mysterious John. She seemed to allow herself to be pushed into situations where the worst possible outcome lay in front of her. Some of her so-called "best friends" seemed to feel free to giveaway Reese's personal information without any real consequence. Reese claimed she couldn't trust men, because the ones she did let her down, but I think the person she really shouldn't trust is herself.
I understand she is young and well all make stupid decisions and mistakes, but Reese's just seemed to keep piling on top of each other. It was almost as if she purposefully ignored some of the signs that were right in front of her (for example, creepy John. There is something not right there and I have a feeling that will spell disaster later on, but does Reese see that? NO!).
As I said about...it's probably me. Others have really enjoyed this book and normally these type of suspenseful storylines are right up my alley. But I didn't connect with the characters or the storyline.
Reese had been through a lot. She was date raped, had problems dealing with certain social situation and was stung my the lost of contact with her boyfriend who moved away. She kept to her close knit group of friends as a way to protect herself from the unknown and relied on her family and her strong sense of faith to guide her. At first, I really liked her. But then I started to question what she was doing. She vacillated between Tate, Carter and then the mysterious John. She seemed to allow herself to be pushed into situations where the worst possible outcome lay in front of her. Some of her so-called "best friends" seemed to feel free to giveaway Reese's personal information without any real consequence. Reese claimed she couldn't trust men, because the ones she did let her down, but I think the person she really shouldn't trust is herself.
I understand she is young and well all make stupid decisions and mistakes, but Reese's just seemed to keep piling on top of each other. It was almost as if she purposefully ignored some of the signs that were right in front of her (for example, creepy John. There is something not right there and I have a feeling that will spell disaster later on, but does Reese see that? NO!).
As I said about...it's probably me. Others have really enjoyed this book and normally these type of suspenseful storylines are right up my alley. But I didn't connect with the characters or the storyline.
January 21, 2014
Attainment is the first book in the Attainment series by J. H. Cardwell. Reese Stanford is only 18 and yet has had a rough life. Reese is a sweet and levelheaded young woman. She is trying to make her way in life in college and in romance. She learns at a young age how precious life is. Reese is a strong woman to be able to go through what she did and come out whole and not forever broken.
Tate is a young man who seems to know what he wants in life and is not afraid of his emotions when it comes to Reese. He is a hot and sexy athlete. I loved how respected her wishes about not having sex until she is married and did not pressure her in the least. Tate can come across as desperate at times but at his young age, it is not too unrealistic.
John is a hot and sexy man who fall in love with Reese from the first time he see her. John is also rich and is more than willing to throw his money around to help win over Reese. However, while John has some good qualities, he never fully eclipse Tate for Reese.
The author tackles some tough issues including rape. I do like how the author handled it. She showed it affected Reese but did not control it and also brought up that Reese was in therapy. I was not fond of how the book switched from first person to third person. I am also not fond of switching from Reese telling the story to different characters telling the story. The main and secondary characters were interesting and realistic. Overall, this was a good story in spite of the tough issues raised with the book.
Tate is a young man who seems to know what he wants in life and is not afraid of his emotions when it comes to Reese. He is a hot and sexy athlete. I loved how respected her wishes about not having sex until she is married and did not pressure her in the least. Tate can come across as desperate at times but at his young age, it is not too unrealistic.
John is a hot and sexy man who fall in love with Reese from the first time he see her. John is also rich and is more than willing to throw his money around to help win over Reese. However, while John has some good qualities, he never fully eclipse Tate for Reese.
The author tackles some tough issues including rape. I do like how the author handled it. She showed it affected Reese but did not control it and also brought up that Reese was in therapy. I was not fond of how the book switched from first person to third person. I am also not fond of switching from Reese telling the story to different characters telling the story. The main and secondary characters were interesting and realistic. Overall, this was a good story in spite of the tough issues raised with the book.
January 25, 2014
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
I give it 3.5 stars
This book is the first book in the Attainment series by J.h. Cardwell. This book starts with the main character, Reese, getting date raped by her boyfriend Carter. From that point and though out the book, I absolutely despised Carter. Carter leaves Reese that night, making sure Reese does not remember what happens with her which is really sad. Then she starts going out with Tate Justice. Tate is an absolutely amazing guy. He is protective, kind, sweet, hot,and really loves Reese and would do anything for her though he doesn't know about Reese's past. Elle is Reese's best friend who has been with Reese through everything and the only one who knows about Reese's tragic past along with her parents. Then comes along The Beach God, John Rider, who just like Carter and Tate falls in love with Reese. I liked John in the beginning but he and Carter got on my nerve when they just wouldn't leave her and Tate alone. There are many obstacles they need to overcome before she and Tate can finally be together without people trying to ruin it for them. Overall, I liked the book. I think it is different and creative. I recommend it to anyone who likes romance novels. I am definitely going to read the next book.
I give it 3.5 stars
This book is the first book in the Attainment series by J.h. Cardwell. This book starts with the main character, Reese, getting date raped by her boyfriend Carter. From that point and though out the book, I absolutely despised Carter. Carter leaves Reese that night, making sure Reese does not remember what happens with her which is really sad. Then she starts going out with Tate Justice. Tate is an absolutely amazing guy. He is protective, kind, sweet, hot,and really loves Reese and would do anything for her though he doesn't know about Reese's past. Elle is Reese's best friend who has been with Reese through everything and the only one who knows about Reese's tragic past along with her parents. Then comes along The Beach God, John Rider, who just like Carter and Tate falls in love with Reese. I liked John in the beginning but he and Carter got on my nerve when they just wouldn't leave her and Tate alone. There are many obstacles they need to overcome before she and Tate can finally be together without people trying to ruin it for them. Overall, I liked the book. I think it is different and creative. I recommend it to anyone who likes romance novels. I am definitely going to read the next book.
January 19, 2014
I almost quit this book from page one. I mean, it starts out with a date rape! I wasn't so sure that I wanted to read this book anymore. But I read it and it wasn't bad. I didn't think it switched points of view that many times, which a lot of people complained about.
I didn't get what was so great about Reese to have that many guys fawning over her. I don't mind reading young adult books but, the "sexual" scenes were all kissing, because she wants to wait for marriage. People still do that? And would you really feel that way after losing your virginity to a rape? If that wasn't bad enough, it almost happens again! This girl clearly didn't learn to be leery of men even though she watches her drinks like a hawk.
By the end, I didn't care who she ended up with as long as it wasn't Carter. I also don't understand ending relationships over rumors. If you really "loved" the person, shouldn't you confront them?
I did enjoy the book despite it being way too teen angst for me. I wouldn't read the next one in the series though. But it was worth the free read.
I didn't get what was so great about Reese to have that many guys fawning over her. I don't mind reading young adult books but, the "sexual" scenes were all kissing, because she wants to wait for marriage. People still do that? And would you really feel that way after losing your virginity to a rape? If that wasn't bad enough, it almost happens again! This girl clearly didn't learn to be leery of men even though she watches her drinks like a hawk.
By the end, I didn't care who she ended up with as long as it wasn't Carter. I also don't understand ending relationships over rumors. If you really "loved" the person, shouldn't you confront them?
I did enjoy the book despite it being way too teen angst for me. I wouldn't read the next one in the series though. But it was worth the free read.
January 11, 2015
Oh my God! I absolutely loved this book. I fell in love with it from the beginning and couldn't wait to see what all would happen to these amazing characters. I know this was an ARC copy of the book but I really struggled to read it due to all of the mistakes in grammar and formatting, but this should be cleaned up in the finished copy.
I loved reading Reese's story and truly felt for her as her story unraveled. I immediately hated Carter, even before you hear about the incident. I am still on the edge about Tate and I'm really not sure what his deal is, I hope to find out in book two. However, I completely fell in love with John's character and he is.
This was a very busy book and it was full of information. However it all melded together in the end. This book is well worth the read and I highly recommend it. Aside from the vast amount of grammar and formatting issues it was a great read. The plot, character and themes/morals were all amazing and made up for the other issues.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading Reese's story and truly felt for her as her story unraveled. I immediately hated Carter, even before you hear about the incident. I am still on the edge about Tate and I'm really not sure what his deal is, I hope to find out in book two. However, I completely fell in love with John's character and he is.
This was a very busy book and it was full of information. However it all melded together in the end. This book is well worth the read and I highly recommend it. Aside from the vast amount of grammar and formatting issues it was a great read. The plot, character and themes/morals were all amazing and made up for the other issues.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
February 13, 2014
This book was taken straight out of local headlines. The basis is about a date rape story, where the victim didn't know her rapist until later on. She not only found out who he was; but that she knew him well. So, beware, the prologue is very intense.
There are many ways to capture a person’s love, but unwilling, full attainment is never the best option.
Life hasn’t been easy for 18 year old Reese Stanford. After a traumatic incident a year ago, she has a hard time trusting any guy. She finally allows herself to fall for the heart throb, Tate Justice, only to realize he too comes with his own set of issues.
Swearing off men, she meets a beach ‘god’ who will settle for no less than all of Reese. That is at least, until she learns a truth about Tate that changes the game entirely.
Very well written and I would recommend it to young adults.
There are many ways to capture a person’s love, but unwilling, full attainment is never the best option.
Life hasn’t been easy for 18 year old Reese Stanford. After a traumatic incident a year ago, she has a hard time trusting any guy. She finally allows herself to fall for the heart throb, Tate Justice, only to realize he too comes with his own set of issues.
Swearing off men, she meets a beach ‘god’ who will settle for no less than all of Reese. That is at least, until she learns a truth about Tate that changes the game entirely.
Very well written and I would recommend it to young adults.
March 16, 2014
The books is extremely fascinating. It clearly shows how many difficulties Reese faced during her relationships and how she was standing firm in her own decision. It shows that your own decision is the one that really matters, not anybody else's. It was a very well thought of and written book and I have already read Atonement. I am really awaiting Chole.
July 23, 2013
Shock factor prologue. Page turner from beginning to end. Book encompasses many genre's, mainly romance and suspense. Wonderful Love Triangle. The reader is torn over which leading male for the main character to end up with.
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