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Bold
Sasha, a shy, 15-year-old girl who hides from the world, almost dies in a car crash and vows that if she survives, she will be bold and live life to the fullest. Her newfound courage is tested when she meets Will, who just moved to her Air Force desert town after his journalist father’s disappearance. Will is fascinated by Sasha’s brush with and secret knowledge of death.
Sasha and Will push each other to take chances and break out of their sheltered suburban world. But will they discover there is a difference between being bold and being stupid before they put themselves, or someone else, in danger?
Sasha and Will push each other to take chances and break out of their sheltered suburban world. But will they discover there is a difference between being bold and being stupid before they put themselves, or someone else, in danger?
174 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 4, 2013
50 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 18, 2013
Review by Beth
Bold is classed as contemporary romance and as I’m not a big romance reader I wasn’t particularly enthused when I read the synopsis. However both Sasha and Will’s characters kept me reading.
Both Julia Swift and Andrew Landis are known as TV writers and you can certainly tell, at many times throughout the novel I could happily have believed I was writing something specifically written for screen and I definitely think this novel would make a fantastic film or TV serial.
The novel brings together two people who you’d never believe would meet in real life and that’s what makes it so enjoyable. Looks are definitely deceiving in this novel as when we first meet Will he isn’t all that he seems. The authors genuinely represent the evolution of a relationship and it makes the story highly believable and very easy to get sucked into!
The authors’ language is used sparingly, it’s as if every word was picked out individually and it’s a really interesting way of writing. The power of their story telling doesn’t rely upon clever narrative techniques or a mass of hyperbolic adjectives and they simply have the gift of being great story tellers.
Bold is a brilliant title and evidently the main theme of the novel. The characters are relatable and the story keeps moving at a great pace that it’s a really hard novel to put down. There’s no sex and drugs and alcohol like many high school based novels but this doesn’t make it feel any less believable
Bold is classed as contemporary romance and as I’m not a big romance reader I wasn’t particularly enthused when I read the synopsis. However both Sasha and Will’s characters kept me reading.
Both Julia Swift and Andrew Landis are known as TV writers and you can certainly tell, at many times throughout the novel I could happily have believed I was writing something specifically written for screen and I definitely think this novel would make a fantastic film or TV serial.
The novel brings together two people who you’d never believe would meet in real life and that’s what makes it so enjoyable. Looks are definitely deceiving in this novel as when we first meet Will he isn’t all that he seems. The authors genuinely represent the evolution of a relationship and it makes the story highly believable and very easy to get sucked into!
The authors’ language is used sparingly, it’s as if every word was picked out individually and it’s a really interesting way of writing. The power of their story telling doesn’t rely upon clever narrative techniques or a mass of hyperbolic adjectives and they simply have the gift of being great story tellers.
Bold is a brilliant title and evidently the main theme of the novel. The characters are relatable and the story keeps moving at a great pace that it’s a really hard novel to put down. There’s no sex and drugs and alcohol like many high school based novels but this doesn’t make it feel any less believable
January 31, 2014
First off, I have to admit I was unknowingly already a fan of these two authors’ prior to reading this book. I have followed T.V. shows that they have written for such as Smallville and Hercules: The Legendary Journeys for years. So after learning that Swift and Landis had contributed to some of my favourite young adult television dramas, I could not wait to sink my teeth into their YA fiction offering. I was met with some definite similarities in themes and motifs which did not disappoint.
While I am not certain that Swift and Landis necessarily want their new written work compared to their previous work for television, I could not help but read this text with my previous knowledge in mind. In the past they have written about the underdog youths and beginnings of some of fantasy’s strongest, most unbreakable characters, such as Superman and Hercules. They are masters in narratives of building from the ashes, learning tough lessons from hard experiences, and overcoming obstacles to become who you are destined to be. All of these themes appear in one form or another in their YA novel, Bold.
Swift and Landis provide us with a very relatable story of two high school students, Sasha and Will, who have both experienced tragic life events which complicate the already rough terrain of young adulthood. Through Sasha’s point of view, the reader follows the story of a shy, socially awkward and unaccepted girl whose brush with death prompts her to shake off her wall flower roots and go out and get noticed. While her actions ultimately get her the wrong type of attention, the real draw to Sasha’s character is that there is something special, almost magical, about her character. With her character, I felt as though the authors were sending a message to all of today’s hyper-judgmental teens to say that behind every bullied, neglected teenager, there is something of value, some quality being taken for granted. Well high five to Swift and Landis for this, it is exactly the kind of message young society needs!! Everyone is valuable!
Will on the other hand, is a cool kid, although he is a cool kid at a new school. He plays basketball, makes friends easily, and wants to be part of the high school experience. So much so he becomes involved in the school newspaper. But there is more to his writing than just a desire to have a finger on the pulse, he is really writing to be close to his Dad, a high profile journalist who has disappeared. To try to sort through this difficult time, Will attempts to prove himself to his absent father. There is a scene in the book where Will is crying in public, another scene which speaks to the rigid stereotypes that exist in our youth’s culture, and this is where the unlikely couple meets for the first time.
What follows, part love story and part self-discovery story, is a fresh offering to the YA category in that it shows two separate characters as they develop and overcome their individual difficulties on their path to their love story. Neither one is dependent on the other for help with their issues, rather they admire one another and the different ways they have found to survive, grow and ultimately find each other. So do not look here for warm floating butterflies and consuming passionate kisses, though there are a couple, rather find an inspirational story of two young people who use the adversity life hands them to set them on the paths to their destiny.
While I am not certain that Swift and Landis necessarily want their new written work compared to their previous work for television, I could not help but read this text with my previous knowledge in mind. In the past they have written about the underdog youths and beginnings of some of fantasy’s strongest, most unbreakable characters, such as Superman and Hercules. They are masters in narratives of building from the ashes, learning tough lessons from hard experiences, and overcoming obstacles to become who you are destined to be. All of these themes appear in one form or another in their YA novel, Bold.
Swift and Landis provide us with a very relatable story of two high school students, Sasha and Will, who have both experienced tragic life events which complicate the already rough terrain of young adulthood. Through Sasha’s point of view, the reader follows the story of a shy, socially awkward and unaccepted girl whose brush with death prompts her to shake off her wall flower roots and go out and get noticed. While her actions ultimately get her the wrong type of attention, the real draw to Sasha’s character is that there is something special, almost magical, about her character. With her character, I felt as though the authors were sending a message to all of today’s hyper-judgmental teens to say that behind every bullied, neglected teenager, there is something of value, some quality being taken for granted. Well high five to Swift and Landis for this, it is exactly the kind of message young society needs!! Everyone is valuable!
Will on the other hand, is a cool kid, although he is a cool kid at a new school. He plays basketball, makes friends easily, and wants to be part of the high school experience. So much so he becomes involved in the school newspaper. But there is more to his writing than just a desire to have a finger on the pulse, he is really writing to be close to his Dad, a high profile journalist who has disappeared. To try to sort through this difficult time, Will attempts to prove himself to his absent father. There is a scene in the book where Will is crying in public, another scene which speaks to the rigid stereotypes that exist in our youth’s culture, and this is where the unlikely couple meets for the first time.
What follows, part love story and part self-discovery story, is a fresh offering to the YA category in that it shows two separate characters as they develop and overcome their individual difficulties on their path to their love story. Neither one is dependent on the other for help with their issues, rather they admire one another and the different ways they have found to survive, grow and ultimately find each other. So do not look here for warm floating butterflies and consuming passionate kisses, though there are a couple, rather find an inspirational story of two young people who use the adversity life hands them to set them on the paths to their destiny.
January 16, 2014
Fast Read. Sweet. Romantic. Enduring.
When I was contacted to do a review for Julia & Andrew of their new book "Bold" I had no idea I would be blown away by the concept of this book and the conscientious way this book is woven together. Two writers that are just starting out. Although they have script writing experience, this is their first full length book and I for one, just can't believe it! The writing style is captivating. The story is original. The characters are well thought out and flawed in all the right places. The language was beautiful and I found myself have to leave out certain quoted text that I highlighted because quite literally I could have quoted so many different sections. The prose flowed together so seamlessly. It was a joy as a reader to read such eloquent writing.
Bold is the story of Will and Sasha. Both are dealing with their own secrets that they just don't want to share with others or each other for that matter. However, they are continually thrown together by chance, and by choice. The story is told from both characters point of view, which I absolutely love. It has always bothered me when I was reading a story about two main characters and the book is only told from one of these main characters frame of reference. If you are going to make two protagonists in a story, you should tell the story from both perspectives. Just my opinion of course.
Sometimes contemporary stories have to force the characters together in order to make their point, but this book felt just the opposite for me. The characters developed slowly and found their way through out the story without the plot having to catch up at all. I can really relate to both these characters stories and how they have to find their way. Teens have a difficult job growing up and everyone's story is different. Trying to find the way is often difficult and heart wrenching and I think the story did a great job portraying these facts.
I did not feel that either of these authors were writing their first novel, but could both be seasoned authors with many novels already published. A breath of fresh air, a quick read and recommended for those that love a great story that is well thought out and beautifully written.
When I was contacted to do a review for Julia & Andrew of their new book "Bold" I had no idea I would be blown away by the concept of this book and the conscientious way this book is woven together. Two writers that are just starting out. Although they have script writing experience, this is their first full length book and I for one, just can't believe it! The writing style is captivating. The story is original. The characters are well thought out and flawed in all the right places. The language was beautiful and I found myself have to leave out certain quoted text that I highlighted because quite literally I could have quoted so many different sections. The prose flowed together so seamlessly. It was a joy as a reader to read such eloquent writing.
Bold is the story of Will and Sasha. Both are dealing with their own secrets that they just don't want to share with others or each other for that matter. However, they are continually thrown together by chance, and by choice. The story is told from both characters point of view, which I absolutely love. It has always bothered me when I was reading a story about two main characters and the book is only told from one of these main characters frame of reference. If you are going to make two protagonists in a story, you should tell the story from both perspectives. Just my opinion of course.
Sometimes contemporary stories have to force the characters together in order to make their point, but this book felt just the opposite for me. The characters developed slowly and found their way through out the story without the plot having to catch up at all. I can really relate to both these characters stories and how they have to find their way. Teens have a difficult job growing up and everyone's story is different. Trying to find the way is often difficult and heart wrenching and I think the story did a great job portraying these facts.
I did not feel that either of these authors were writing their first novel, but could both be seasoned authors with many novels already published. A breath of fresh air, a quick read and recommended for those that love a great story that is well thought out and beautifully written.
August 3, 2013
This novel was such an easy and fun read. The characters are great, and the structure really plays up the realism and depth of the characters, as the main girl and boy each take turns in different chapters speaking to us in first person narration. I really felt this brought an intimacy and depth to the story. This one works on so many levels - it tackles issues of conformity and social dynamics in teens, idealism, careerism, and classism in America. The setting in suburban California is so realistic and works as a great metaphor.
This book reminded me of the best-selling The Perks of Being a Wallflower, but in many ways I found it more grounded and realistic. I don't want to give anything away, but both characters deal with past traumas and losses in their lives in profound but very grounded and realistic ways. The tension throughout was so strong - I was really worried their actions would spiral out of control!
In the end, I wanted to know what happens to these characters next. What sort of adults do they become? What a great feeling to have at the end of a read!
This book reminded me of the best-selling The Perks of Being a Wallflower, but in many ways I found it more grounded and realistic. I don't want to give anything away, but both characters deal with past traumas and losses in their lives in profound but very grounded and realistic ways. The tension throughout was so strong - I was really worried their actions would spiral out of control!
In the end, I wanted to know what happens to these characters next. What sort of adults do they become? What a great feeling to have at the end of a read!
September 6, 2013
I decided to read Bold because I was intrigued by the premise. I like the idea of living life to the fullest, and was interested in how Sasha would change her life after her near-death experience.
Bold was a good, clean read with a great message. I liked that it's contemporary fiction, but not just a love story. I appreciated the focus on self-awareness and self-change. There was a lot of character growth, which is one of my favorite things to read about.
I didn't like the dishonesty between the two main characters, which felt like it went on for too much of the book. Some of the parts didn't flow well, and I found myself reading certain segments twice to make sure I wasn't missing anything. Maybe this was due to the fact that Bold is written by two authors instead of one, or maybe it was just me.
Overall, I really did enjoy Bold. It was different from other books in the genre, with fresh voices, and well-developed characters. I'd recommend it to fans of contemporary fiction.
Bold was a good, clean read with a great message. I liked that it's contemporary fiction, but not just a love story. I appreciated the focus on self-awareness and self-change. There was a lot of character growth, which is one of my favorite things to read about.
I didn't like the dishonesty between the two main characters, which felt like it went on for too much of the book. Some of the parts didn't flow well, and I found myself reading certain segments twice to make sure I wasn't missing anything. Maybe this was due to the fact that Bold is written by two authors instead of one, or maybe it was just me.
Overall, I really did enjoy Bold. It was different from other books in the genre, with fresh voices, and well-developed characters. I'd recommend it to fans of contemporary fiction.
July 29, 2015
Bold was such a good, sweet read. I actually enjoyed the story much more than I thought I would whenever I was first contacted about the book. I always enjoy when a book pleasantly surprises me.
Dual perspectives is something that I’m enjoying more and more lately. I love the fuller picture we get when we’re treated with a perspective of each of the main characters. Bold didn’t disappoint in this aspect at all. Whether or not it’s because the novel is written by two people or not, I don’t know, but I truly felt like I was seeing the story from the point of view of two well developed characters.
The romance between Sasha and Will didn’t feel forced, faked, or rushed. It’s always so much better to see a romance develop naturally rather than one that’s forced by the author(s).
Overall, I was very pleased with Bold. I’m glad I decided to give it a chance. If you’re looking for a clean, sweet young adult romance you should give this one a try.
* This book was received from the authors in exchange for an honest review. *
Dual perspectives is something that I’m enjoying more and more lately. I love the fuller picture we get when we’re treated with a perspective of each of the main characters. Bold didn’t disappoint in this aspect at all. Whether or not it’s because the novel is written by two people or not, I don’t know, but I truly felt like I was seeing the story from the point of view of two well developed characters.
The romance between Sasha and Will didn’t feel forced, faked, or rushed. It’s always so much better to see a romance develop naturally rather than one that’s forced by the author(s).
Overall, I was very pleased with Bold. I’m glad I decided to give it a chance. If you’re looking for a clean, sweet young adult romance you should give this one a try.
* This book was received from the authors in exchange for an honest review. *
August 26, 2013
I thought this was a really beautiful story. The two main characters, both responsible for narrating their own points of view, are drawn incredibly well. Sometimes in stories of this nature I find the obstacles in the young lover's path either contrived or forced - not the case here. I totally related with both of these teenagers' struggles, inner conflicts, and desires to find their place. The story is authentic and grounded - but also brave.
The prose was spare, precise, and moving. I really felt the pull between these two characters and rooted for them throughout the story. Excellent work from both authors, and while this may be their first novel, they are clearly expert story tellers. I cannot wait to read the next story they bring to life.
The prose was spare, precise, and moving. I really felt the pull between these two characters and rooted for them throughout the story. Excellent work from both authors, and while this may be their first novel, they are clearly expert story tellers. I cannot wait to read the next story they bring to life.
February 23, 2014
Before I actually review the book, I want to point out the cover doesn’t do the story justice. This doesn’t make me want to pick up the book at all. It really doesn’t do anything to catch the readers’ eyes. But you know what they say: don’t judge a book by its cover!
That being said, the book was considerably better than the cover. Sasha is a shy girl without many friends. She hides behind books and dark hair, until the accident. After the car crash, she decides to stand out and take risks. She decides to be bold. Will just moved to the California desert after his father’s death. He’s ready to start anew without the pitiful glances he received from his other friends and neighbors. Sasha and Will step out of their sheltered worlds, but they soon find out there is a difference between being bold and being reckless.
The plot is entertaining. I wouldn’t call it predictable, since the characters continually make decisions I didn’t foresee. Overall, the book carries heavy concepts, death of a loved one and almost death of yourself, but it’s a light read. I never stopped flipping the pages, and I always wanted to find out what happened next. I never thought the events were too far fetched or did I think they were boring.
Although, there are some jumps and holes in the plot. I felt like the characters didn’t have lives outside of the pages, which sounds weird, because they aren’t supposed to. They’re fictional. But do you know what I mean? I didn’t feel their presence could have been in places without the words forcing them into place. For instance, I couldn’t even picture Sasha with her family until the very end when she’s with her family, nor could I picture Will with his dad. I don’t think the characters’ lives were well developed. I found myself wondering things about their lives and having no clue as the answer.
I also felt like there were random things popping up into the plot. The story didn’t flow into all these new additions. I didn’t realize Sasha’s brother, Xander, was still dating the girl who got him into jail. That’s kind of an important piece. Sasha’s whole family hardly played a part until the end, and by then I felt like they were strangers.
Also, I felt like Sasha and Will constantly went back to whatever tragedy happened to them. Yes, you’re sad, I understand. But I think you can go one page without thinking about the accident or death.
Even though the lives seemed a bit jumbled, their personalities certainly weren’t. Both Will and Sasha have relatable problems and quirks. Sasha is completely shy, hides her nose in books, and wishes she could be an extrovert. Hmmm, could be any number of us bloggers…. Will is popular, athletic, but he wants to be seen as something more. These two clashing personalities make them a dynamic couple.
In parts of dialogue, I found myself rereading a couple of times. The authors begin the dialogue run with one person, and then it’s expected for the reader to follow. I think this technique is common when there are quick, one-line, two people conversations, but every time someone speaks, this is the format. Sometimes there were three people talking, and I had no idea who was saying what. If there were a couple more she said/he said I would have been happier.
I loved how it wasn’t just a love story with a happy ending. The book was about taking risks without being stupid, and about moving on. Sasha’s and Will’s romance didn’t dominate the story. Despite some shaky transitions, it’s still an easy and entertaining read. The holes in the plot and in the characters lives along with some confusing scenes limited my reading enjoyment.
For more reviews: stealingpages.com
That being said, the book was considerably better than the cover. Sasha is a shy girl without many friends. She hides behind books and dark hair, until the accident. After the car crash, she decides to stand out and take risks. She decides to be bold. Will just moved to the California desert after his father’s death. He’s ready to start anew without the pitiful glances he received from his other friends and neighbors. Sasha and Will step out of their sheltered worlds, but they soon find out there is a difference between being bold and being reckless.
The plot is entertaining. I wouldn’t call it predictable, since the characters continually make decisions I didn’t foresee. Overall, the book carries heavy concepts, death of a loved one and almost death of yourself, but it’s a light read. I never stopped flipping the pages, and I always wanted to find out what happened next. I never thought the events were too far fetched or did I think they were boring.
Although, there are some jumps and holes in the plot. I felt like the characters didn’t have lives outside of the pages, which sounds weird, because they aren’t supposed to. They’re fictional. But do you know what I mean? I didn’t feel their presence could have been in places without the words forcing them into place. For instance, I couldn’t even picture Sasha with her family until the very end when she’s with her family, nor could I picture Will with his dad. I don’t think the characters’ lives were well developed. I found myself wondering things about their lives and having no clue as the answer.
I also felt like there were random things popping up into the plot. The story didn’t flow into all these new additions. I didn’t realize Sasha’s brother, Xander, was still dating the girl who got him into jail. That’s kind of an important piece. Sasha’s whole family hardly played a part until the end, and by then I felt like they were strangers.
Also, I felt like Sasha and Will constantly went back to whatever tragedy happened to them. Yes, you’re sad, I understand. But I think you can go one page without thinking about the accident or death.
Even though the lives seemed a bit jumbled, their personalities certainly weren’t. Both Will and Sasha have relatable problems and quirks. Sasha is completely shy, hides her nose in books, and wishes she could be an extrovert. Hmmm, could be any number of us bloggers…. Will is popular, athletic, but he wants to be seen as something more. These two clashing personalities make them a dynamic couple.
In parts of dialogue, I found myself rereading a couple of times. The authors begin the dialogue run with one person, and then it’s expected for the reader to follow. I think this technique is common when there are quick, one-line, two people conversations, but every time someone speaks, this is the format. Sometimes there were three people talking, and I had no idea who was saying what. If there were a couple more she said/he said I would have been happier.
I loved how it wasn’t just a love story with a happy ending. The book was about taking risks without being stupid, and about moving on. Sasha’s and Will’s romance didn’t dominate the story. Despite some shaky transitions, it’s still an easy and entertaining read. The holes in the plot and in the characters lives along with some confusing scenes limited my reading enjoyment.
For more reviews: stealingpages.com
February 17, 2014
I received a personal request to review Bold from its authors, Andrew Landis and Julia Swift. After reading the synopsis, I was eager to get my hands on this young adult contemporary romance. It had If I Stay meets Fangirl written all over it. Unfortunately, Bold didn't quite live up to my expectations.
Let me start off by assuring you the writing of Bold was solid, the message was awesome, and the general plot was interesting. There were times throughout the story I could totally relate to Sasha and feel her determination to stop being shy and start being bold. I also enjoyed the format of jumping back and forth between Will and Sasha's POV (this particular format is always fun if done right). Really, if I'd seen this story play out on screen, it may have worked (and I'm sure it would have with Landis and Swift in charge, two writers who've proven themselves in the screenwriting world with gigs on shows like Smallville and The Book of Daniel).
However, as a book, Bold just didn't get there. There were a few issues that held it back:
*Scene skipping. In almost every chapter, there'd be moments when we'd jump from A to Z without explanation. Conversations, actions, and thoughts were abruptly cut off or abbreviated. Ex: Sasha is being manhandled by a big bad criminal. His hands are gripping her arms. Then, suddenly, she's running out the back door for freedom...How'd she get away from him? Knee him? Punch him? Scream bloody murder? I couldn't help but wonder if this issue was due to the authors' background in screenwriting, where things must be implied and heavily condensed.
*Love story. Was this a love story? Sasha and Will hardly spent any time together, and when they did, I didn't feel anything between them. To be honest, I felt a lot more simmering between her and another boy, Ricky. When you put two people together and use words like "intense", it automatically adds heat between them...and that word was used a few times between Sasha and Ricky (Ricky, not Will). The only connection Will and Sasha seemed to have was their thirst for self-discovery.
*Trying too hard. I love books with messages. And I loved the message in Bold. However, I didn't love the way that message was delivered. I don't want to use it, but "cliché" is the only word I can think of to describe most of the lines and scenes. (ex: "Then go now. Show me what you can do, what you can be. Or better yet, show yourself.")
*The cover. Are these two individuals supposed to be 15-year old Will and Sasha (or Will and Sasha 15 years in the future)?
As I said before, I think Bold had some wonderful things about it. But, unfortunately, it had some problems too. And in a young adult market that's raising the standard for excellence day-by-day, I'm not sure if it'll be able to hold up.
Read more book reviews at Jen's Pen Den
Let me start off by assuring you the writing of Bold was solid, the message was awesome, and the general plot was interesting. There were times throughout the story I could totally relate to Sasha and feel her determination to stop being shy and start being bold. I also enjoyed the format of jumping back and forth between Will and Sasha's POV (this particular format is always fun if done right). Really, if I'd seen this story play out on screen, it may have worked (and I'm sure it would have with Landis and Swift in charge, two writers who've proven themselves in the screenwriting world with gigs on shows like Smallville and The Book of Daniel).
However, as a book, Bold just didn't get there. There were a few issues that held it back:
*Scene skipping. In almost every chapter, there'd be moments when we'd jump from A to Z without explanation. Conversations, actions, and thoughts were abruptly cut off or abbreviated. Ex: Sasha is being manhandled by a big bad criminal. His hands are gripping her arms. Then, suddenly, she's running out the back door for freedom...How'd she get away from him? Knee him? Punch him? Scream bloody murder? I couldn't help but wonder if this issue was due to the authors' background in screenwriting, where things must be implied and heavily condensed.
*Love story. Was this a love story? Sasha and Will hardly spent any time together, and when they did, I didn't feel anything between them. To be honest, I felt a lot more simmering between her and another boy, Ricky. When you put two people together and use words like "intense", it automatically adds heat between them...and that word was used a few times between Sasha and Ricky (Ricky, not Will). The only connection Will and Sasha seemed to have was their thirst for self-discovery.
*Trying too hard. I love books with messages. And I loved the message in Bold. However, I didn't love the way that message was delivered. I don't want to use it, but "cliché" is the only word I can think of to describe most of the lines and scenes. (ex: "Then go now. Show me what you can do, what you can be. Or better yet, show yourself.")
*The cover. Are these two individuals supposed to be 15-year old Will and Sasha (or Will and Sasha 15 years in the future)?
As I said before, I think Bold had some wonderful things about it. But, unfortunately, it had some problems too. And in a young adult market that's raising the standard for excellence day-by-day, I'm not sure if it'll be able to hold up.
Read more book reviews at Jen's Pen Den
January 10, 2014
First off, I was totally immersed in the setting of this book. Bold takes place in the High Desert. Can you guess who grew up there? Yup, me. So when Will was complaining about the heat, the dust, and all manner of other desert related things, I was right there along with him. I felt connected to this story on a whole other level, simply because I could easily picture every scene.
I also really enjoyed both Will and Sasha as characters. They felt realistic to me. They made normal teenage decisions, and had normal teenage issues. What set them apart were the things they were facing. I couldn't help but smile as Sasha fought against her own mortality, and tried to live each day to the fullest. Watching a quiet, shy girl wage an inner battle to break out of her shell was wonderful. In the same vein, following along as Will tried to learn who he really wanted to be was equally amazing. I adored these two, and thought they were an excellent match.
Which is why I really wished for more romance. Bold is billed as contemporary romance, but it feels like more of a coming-of-age story. True, there was romance. Still, I feel like it was greatly understated compared to the life lessons these two learn, both together and separately. The story revolves around them growing, learning boundaries, and coming to terms with who they really are. If this is what you're looking to read, you're in luck! If you're looking for straight romance, you might want to look elsewhere.
I also felt like the ending was rushed. The first half of the book moves along at a leisurely pace. I was treated to the alternating points of view, as Will and Sasha slowly got to know one another and themselves. Then, suddenly, things picked up pace towards the middle of the book. So much happened in the last half that I felt a bit winded at the end. Dialogue felt more rushed, and not as realistic as in the beginning. I was left feeling lost and wishing I had more time to get to know these characters. I didn't feel everything was wrapped up. Be warned, there are a few grammatical errors in this book. It doesn't take away from the story as a whole, but I always notice and I know others do too.
Final verdict? I'm honestly on the fence about Bold. While it had its moments, there really wasn't enough here to make this a glowing read for me.
I also really enjoyed both Will and Sasha as characters. They felt realistic to me. They made normal teenage decisions, and had normal teenage issues. What set them apart were the things they were facing. I couldn't help but smile as Sasha fought against her own mortality, and tried to live each day to the fullest. Watching a quiet, shy girl wage an inner battle to break out of her shell was wonderful. In the same vein, following along as Will tried to learn who he really wanted to be was equally amazing. I adored these two, and thought they were an excellent match.
Which is why I really wished for more romance. Bold is billed as contemporary romance, but it feels like more of a coming-of-age story. True, there was romance. Still, I feel like it was greatly understated compared to the life lessons these two learn, both together and separately. The story revolves around them growing, learning boundaries, and coming to terms with who they really are. If this is what you're looking to read, you're in luck! If you're looking for straight romance, you might want to look elsewhere.
I also felt like the ending was rushed. The first half of the book moves along at a leisurely pace. I was treated to the alternating points of view, as Will and Sasha slowly got to know one another and themselves. Then, suddenly, things picked up pace towards the middle of the book. So much happened in the last half that I felt a bit winded at the end. Dialogue felt more rushed, and not as realistic as in the beginning. I was left feeling lost and wishing I had more time to get to know these characters. I didn't feel everything was wrapped up. Be warned, there are a few grammatical errors in this book. It doesn't take away from the story as a whole, but I always notice and I know others do too.
Final verdict? I'm honestly on the fence about Bold. While it had its moments, there really wasn't enough here to make this a glowing read for me.
August 30, 2016
Firstly, and as usual, I received this book for free because someone gave it to me for review. Knowing what I know now, would I spend money on it for me or my family? No. But read on for my candid assessment.
Since this is a young adult novel, my opinion of it hinges for the most part on just how appropriate it is for that market. Good story or not I won't tolerate a YA novel with sex or drug content. In this respect, Bold is in good standing. The novel has some mild and non-specific "make out" components but nothing I'd be concerned about my teenager reading. There are also no references to drugs and no major violence.
Also in the interest of young adult novels I like to see a good theme, or basically, "would I want my child learning the lessons in this book?" To that question I answer that yes, the central themes are strong and positive ones. Carpe diem is an old and familiar standby that these authors have portrayed well.
Moving on to writing and general style, this book has many fewer than the normal number of typos one finds in a self-published work. I counted only a handful in 250+ pages which is extraordinarily good for a title not issued by the major publishing houses.
Having said all these positive things, the problem that rears its head in this novel is its storytelling. There's a great story here but it lacks cohesion and in a few spots I was left flipping back and forth between pages trying to figure out how any of this could actually be happening. In a YA title I'm usually perfectly OK with a bit of simplification in deference to the audience but this just seemed very loosely tied together and at times completely impossible.
In summary, I'm not sure I'll have any chance at all of getting my 14-year-old to read this. The cover alone (on which teens make 99% of decisions about what to read) will be an insurmountable obstacle and sadly the book's clear and important central message will go unheard. Pity that.
Since this is a young adult novel, my opinion of it hinges for the most part on just how appropriate it is for that market. Good story or not I won't tolerate a YA novel with sex or drug content. In this respect, Bold is in good standing. The novel has some mild and non-specific "make out" components but nothing I'd be concerned about my teenager reading. There are also no references to drugs and no major violence.
Also in the interest of young adult novels I like to see a good theme, or basically, "would I want my child learning the lessons in this book?" To that question I answer that yes, the central themes are strong and positive ones. Carpe diem is an old and familiar standby that these authors have portrayed well.
Moving on to writing and general style, this book has many fewer than the normal number of typos one finds in a self-published work. I counted only a handful in 250+ pages which is extraordinarily good for a title not issued by the major publishing houses.
Having said all these positive things, the problem that rears its head in this novel is its storytelling. There's a great story here but it lacks cohesion and in a few spots I was left flipping back and forth between pages trying to figure out how any of this could actually be happening. In a YA title I'm usually perfectly OK with a bit of simplification in deference to the audience but this just seemed very loosely tied together and at times completely impossible.
In summary, I'm not sure I'll have any chance at all of getting my 14-year-old to read this. The cover alone (on which teens make 99% of decisions about what to read) will be an insurmountable obstacle and sadly the book's clear and important central message will go unheard. Pity that.
December 31, 2013
Reviewd on The Book Blog Experience
I didn’t know quite what to expect when going into this book. When I first read the synopsis of the book I was intrigued and willing to give it a try. I didn’t know if I was going to love it or hate it. For me, it was kind of an in between.
While starting the book, I forgot that the main character Sasha was only 15. I found her character very immature and annoying, but then I remembered that she was only 15 and as the story grew so did her character.
I really do love reading books about characters that have tragic pasts and a rough life, it makes them more down to earth and not as perfect as some books portray their characters to be. Both Sasha and Will had some tragedies in their past and that really intrigued me to keep reading.
Bold switches points of view between Sasha and Will each chapter so getting to read about what they were both thinking and how they learned to love each other was nice. I was expecting more romance throughout the book. Half the time they were arguing or they didn’t want to get together… and it wasn’t closer to the end where they actually got together which I was hoping for the whole book!
After everything said this book was very fast paced and an easy read. I would recommend this book to all the younger YA adult fans. Julia Swift and Andrew Landis did a great job coming together and writing their first book. You can find this book available for only 2.99 on Amazon.
I didn’t know quite what to expect when going into this book. When I first read the synopsis of the book I was intrigued and willing to give it a try. I didn’t know if I was going to love it or hate it. For me, it was kind of an in between.
While starting the book, I forgot that the main character Sasha was only 15. I found her character very immature and annoying, but then I remembered that she was only 15 and as the story grew so did her character.
I really do love reading books about characters that have tragic pasts and a rough life, it makes them more down to earth and not as perfect as some books portray their characters to be. Both Sasha and Will had some tragedies in their past and that really intrigued me to keep reading.
Bold switches points of view between Sasha and Will each chapter so getting to read about what they were both thinking and how they learned to love each other was nice. I was expecting more romance throughout the book. Half the time they were arguing or they didn’t want to get together… and it wasn’t closer to the end where they actually got together which I was hoping for the whole book!
After everything said this book was very fast paced and an easy read. I would recommend this book to all the younger YA adult fans. Julia Swift and Andrew Landis did a great job coming together and writing their first book. You can find this book available for only 2.99 on Amazon.
November 19, 2014
Sasha's always been shy. She blends in with the crowd, tries not to stand out. Until the day she gets trapped under an overturned car and dies - for ten seconds. After the paramedics bring her back, Sasha promises herself to go bold.
And that's where Will comes in, the new kid at school. Trying to follow in his father's footsteps (and deal with the uncertainty of what happened to him,) Will competes for a job at the school magazine. While in the field for research on his first story, he meets Sasha and immediately finds himself drawn to her compassionate personality and her knowledge of death.
The attraction is mutual, and Sasha - in her bid to be bold - follows Will on his journalistic exploration tours. While Will merely wants to observe and write, Sasha is determined to help the people they encounter, even if things might get dangerous.
I really connected with Sasha. She's so awkward and shy, yet she really fights to break out of her shell and her thoughts are always spot on and funny. She has a knack for seeing things on a deeper level, in more way than one and I loved the way she approached Will and life in general She wasn't afraid to admit when she was feeling down, and she also wasn't afraid to help others regardless of what others thought of them.
The back and forth between Sasha and Will was intense and at one point I almost thought they wouldn't make it, because - as things go - they ran into some big roadblocks along the way. But their bond was a strong and yet sweet one, and in the end they helped each other through their problems.
And that's where Will comes in, the new kid at school. Trying to follow in his father's footsteps (and deal with the uncertainty of what happened to him,) Will competes for a job at the school magazine. While in the field for research on his first story, he meets Sasha and immediately finds himself drawn to her compassionate personality and her knowledge of death.
The attraction is mutual, and Sasha - in her bid to be bold - follows Will on his journalistic exploration tours. While Will merely wants to observe and write, Sasha is determined to help the people they encounter, even if things might get dangerous.
I really connected with Sasha. She's so awkward and shy, yet she really fights to break out of her shell and her thoughts are always spot on and funny. She has a knack for seeing things on a deeper level, in more way than one and I loved the way she approached Will and life in general She wasn't afraid to admit when she was feeling down, and she also wasn't afraid to help others regardless of what others thought of them.
The back and forth between Sasha and Will was intense and at one point I almost thought they wouldn't make it, because - as things go - they ran into some big roadblocks along the way. But their bond was a strong and yet sweet one, and in the end they helped each other through their problems.
August 12, 2016
Actual Rating: 3.5 of 5 Stars
*I received this book for review from the authors, but this in no way affected my thoughts expressed in this review*
Based purely on the synopsis of this book I wasn't quite sure what I was going to think about this book, it really doesn't do it justice. I didn't have to go very far into the book to realize that. The characters are very believable and realistically written and the writing itself is top notch. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Bold and feel it would be a great book for any teen to read!
That is not to say that there weren't a few rough spots: there were. At times I felt like the book just moved a little too fast, not in the actual story progression but in certain scenes. Of course, that might just be for my taste. Other than that I feel that this book surprised me in a good way. I was expecting a lot of cliches and such, sadly that seems to have become a standard in books such as these. Some cliches are great if done correctly. Others-not so much. In Bold, however, I never really saw anything that falls into either of those categories. It's its own story and I can't really describe it any other way besides calling Bold well, bold. Like all books, it's all in the stories you like to read but if you like a nice book centered(basically) around finding yourself and becoming a better you--then this book is definitely for you!
*I received this book for review from the authors, but this in no way affected my thoughts expressed in this review*
Based purely on the synopsis of this book I wasn't quite sure what I was going to think about this book, it really doesn't do it justice. I didn't have to go very far into the book to realize that. The characters are very believable and realistically written and the writing itself is top notch. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Bold and feel it would be a great book for any teen to read!
That is not to say that there weren't a few rough spots: there were. At times I felt like the book just moved a little too fast, not in the actual story progression but in certain scenes. Of course, that might just be for my taste. Other than that I feel that this book surprised me in a good way. I was expecting a lot of cliches and such, sadly that seems to have become a standard in books such as these. Some cliches are great if done correctly. Others-not so much. In Bold, however, I never really saw anything that falls into either of those categories. It's its own story and I can't really describe it any other way besides calling Bold well, bold. Like all books, it's all in the stories you like to read but if you like a nice book centered(basically) around finding yourself and becoming a better you--then this book is definitely for you!
February 6, 2015
Beautiful, offbeat Sasha wears the outer scars of a devastating accident. Handsome, popular Will bears the inner scars of a secret trauma. At the opening of the YA novel Bold, by Julia Swift and Andrew Landis, Sasha is dogged by loneliness, insecurity and fear, even amongst those she has known for years. Will, “the new boy,” is outwardly confident and popular but acutely feels the loss of what he once had.
By placing herself in a series of increasingly risky situations, Sasha seeks to forge a new, more resilient persona. She is determined to conquer her uncertainty and become “bold.” Will is inadvertently sucked into the whirlwind of adventure which soon dominates Sasha’s life. The two are drawn together by their respective tragedies, their longing to be like everyone else and—of course—by Fate.
Swift and Landis write from a dual perspective, in a visceral style, letting the characters’ trepidation and pain flow freely onto each page. Their raw emotions are clearly reflective of some deeply personal experiences. If you’ve ever been overwhelmed by teenage angst, dreamt of changing yourself, or simply yearned to belong, you will relate to Sasha and Will’s journey through Bold.
By placing herself in a series of increasingly risky situations, Sasha seeks to forge a new, more resilient persona. She is determined to conquer her uncertainty and become “bold.” Will is inadvertently sucked into the whirlwind of adventure which soon dominates Sasha’s life. The two are drawn together by their respective tragedies, their longing to be like everyone else and—of course—by Fate.
Swift and Landis write from a dual perspective, in a visceral style, letting the characters’ trepidation and pain flow freely onto each page. Their raw emotions are clearly reflective of some deeply personal experiences. If you’ve ever been overwhelmed by teenage angst, dreamt of changing yourself, or simply yearned to belong, you will relate to Sasha and Will’s journey through Bold.
August 13, 2016
Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?
Bold by Julia Swift & Andrew Landis is a story of two teens just trying to find their way. They both have tragedy in their past, and they're trying to come to terms with it in the only ways they know how. Through this they are brought together. The perspective changes between Sasha and Will throughout the story. I liked how it gave me a look at life through both of their eyes. I feel like I truly knew where each character was coming from. Sure, I wanted to slap them around at times, but they came across as very human. We make mistakes and do stupid things. The romance grew with the story, and with the personalities of these characters that made it all the more believable. Bold was a lovely coming of age story from these first-time authors. I'll be keeping my eyes open for more books by them in the future!
Bold by Julia Swift & Andrew Landis was kindly provided to me by the authors for review. The opinions are my own.
June 15, 2014
Bold has an interesting premise, though it contradicts itself. Sasha who makes a promise to be bold after nearly dying, takes pride in hiding in the shadows and remaining on the fringes. Everything changes of course, when Will (the new boy in town) enters the picture. I could have gotten past that. However, the writing in this book is more akin to a screen play. Lots of visual imagery, a lot of cut scenes, and more exposition than anything. The story switches narration, which I would be okay with, except that it switches every two to three pages.
See more of this review and others like it on my blog
See more of this review and others like it on my blog
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