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Andi Cutrone #3
She Has Your Eyes
“What’s a marriage license going to give us that we don’t already have?”
“Proof,” he said.
“Of what?”
“That we’re a family.”
Andi and David have settled happily into Andi’s Northampton home, but David wants more. He wants them to get married. But their discussion is put on hold when Wylie, a fifteen-year-old girl, shows up in their backyard, bearing news that takes David’s mind off the future and sends it spiraling into the past.
Reeling from David’s news, Andi receives a startling announcement of her own, one that leads to a relationship with her estranged mother. As Andi and her mother get closer and Wylie weaves her way into their lives, Andi finds solace in an old comfort: her ex-fiancé.
With the past threatening to eclipse their future, the timing for a wedding is all wrong. But if Andi knows anything about timing, it’s that there’s no time to waste.
“Proof,” he said.
“Of what?”
“That we’re a family.”
Andi and David have settled happily into Andi’s Northampton home, but David wants more. He wants them to get married. But their discussion is put on hold when Wylie, a fifteen-year-old girl, shows up in their backyard, bearing news that takes David’s mind off the future and sends it spiraling into the past.
Reeling from David’s news, Andi receives a startling announcement of her own, one that leads to a relationship with her estranged mother. As Andi and her mother get closer and Wylie weaves her way into their lives, Andi finds solace in an old comfort: her ex-fiancé.
With the past threatening to eclipse their future, the timing for a wedding is all wrong. But if Andi knows anything about timing, it’s that there’s no time to waste.
314 pages, Paperback
First published February 11, 2014
157 people are currently reading
1705 people want to read
About the author
Elisa Lorello
18 books212 followersElisa Lorello was born and raised on Long Island, the youngest of seven children. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth and launched a career teaching rhetoric and composition. She has been teaching first-year writing to university students since 2000, but went on sabbatical in fall 2012. Elisa spent six years in North Carolina, where she split her time between teaching and writing, and returned to the northeast in October 2012.
Elisa is the author of the Kindle best-selling novels "Faking It" and "Ordinary World", "Why I Love Singlehood" (co-authored with Sarah Girrell), and "Adulation".
Some of Elisa's favorite pastimes include chocolate, reading, and walking. She is also an avid fan of Duran Duran, pop tarts, and finding the perfect shade of lipstick.
Elisa is the author of the Kindle best-selling novels "Faking It" and "Ordinary World", "Why I Love Singlehood" (co-authored with Sarah Girrell), and "Adulation".
Some of Elisa's favorite pastimes include chocolate, reading, and walking. She is also an avid fan of Duran Duran, pop tarts, and finding the perfect shade of lipstick.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 12, 2016
One again, this is going to be somewhat of a non-review review ...
Back in December of 2012, after I finished Ordinary World and [finally] stopped crying, I happened to come across Elisa's comment under one of Amazon reviews of her book saying this:
"Who knows? Maybe there is indeed more to the story. If so, I'm sure Andi and David will let me know. :)"
That comment was dated January, 2010 so imagine my disappointment when I read it back in December, 2012 (almost 3 years later), ran to GoodReads and saw no new books listed by this atuhor :( It seemed that Andi and David were laying low, enjoying their life together and weren't ready to share the rest of their story with Elisa ...
Fastforward to January, 2014 ... I came across some miserable reader's review of one of Elisa's books so I decided to check what's new with her and, to my utter surprise, I discovered this book!!!
To say this was a moving conclusion to Andi and David's already super emotional journey would be a colossal understatement! If the first two books were anything to go by, I knew going into this one that I will need a drink and lots of Kleenex and I was right. Their story is worth every tear though, happy and sad.
I really enjoy Elisa's writing ... it flows beautifully and I don't just read her books, I devour them.
I know it makes me a very greedy person but is it wrong to hope for a novella [that will take place a few years later] where David ??
Reading order:
, 
, 
.January 9, 2014
Andi and David are back???? THE Andi and David???
You just made my YEAR, Elisa Lorello! I've been waiting for those two to 'speak to you' ever since I finished Ordinary World back in 2012 and THRILLED to pieces they finally did!!!
P.S. The only reason I even found out about this book is because I stumbled upon a sour reviewer here on GR and the trail of her negative reviews led to me to 'Faking It' which made me check out Elisa's other work. So THANK YOU, sour reviewer (BTW, I really hope you get laid BIG TIME very soon because, boy or boy, do you ever sound bitter!).
April 7, 2015
I received a complimentary copy of this book for Fictionella Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
For the first time I think I've realized why God intended for me to become a book review blogger: to receive an Advanced Reader Copy of this book for a blog tour! Okay, I jest (or at least exaggerate); but to say I have been anxiously anticipating the third book in the Andi Cutrone series is an understatement! Which is also why this review is longer than usual. After recently re-reading Faking It, the first novel in the series, I was concerned She Has Your Eyes had too much to live up to. However, as always, Elisa Lorello delivers chick lit even smarter than before with an emotional novel that will have you falling in love with Andi and Dev all over again.
Taking place almost a year after Ordinary World ends, Andi and David are finally together, living a simple and fulfilling life in Andi's Northampton home. Besides David's insistence that they should get married, life is pretty perfect. But when a fifteen-year old girl shows up on their doorstep with life-changing news for David, their seamless life quickly begins to fray. Additionally, Andi's mother shares a secret of her own and Andi's ex-fiance, Andrew, has re-surfaced into her life as well. With so much changing, marriage is the last thing on Andi and David's minds anymore. In fact, it might even be the last thing in their futures.
In She Has Your Eyes, one writing exercise Andi gives to her students is to write about three unrelated life events and find a way to link them together. What I found in Lorello's storytelling is that she uses this formula to build Andi's story within the pages of this novel. The first experience is the arrival of Wiley, the second is Andi's mother's secret, and the third is the resurfacing of Andrew. These three events happen somewhat simultaneously and affect both Andi and David's lives and even threaten their relationship. I spent much of this novel considering the common thread between these three events, and perhaps it will be different for every reader as they take what they find amongst the pages. Because I don't want to spoil the specific challenges each of these three situations presents to Andi, I won't reveal my explication of her experiences. However, if you read the book, I welcome any one-on-one bookish discussions!
A major theme throughout the book is the past versus the present, especially through the evolution of relationships. Andi and her mother evaluate their new-found ability to communicate against the history of their isolation and resentment of each other. Andrew appraises Andi against the guarded version of her he was engaged to a decade before. Vulnerable David struggles with Devin, the self-assured alter-ego of his past. Even Andi must examine who she is, who she was, and who she's going to become amidst all of the change. As each character navigates these changes, I noticed a lot of them "faking it" so to speak; David acting more fearless with Wiley than he felt; Andi's fake interactions with Andrew; the brave face Andi's mom puts on despite how she feels. I really loved how some of the themes from the first novel in the series resounded in this part of the characters' journeys.
My only complaint with this book (besides the fact that it has an ending!) is that all of the information and various interactions initially seemed somewhat chaotic. However, I trusted Lorello as an author and sure enough, I found commonality between the stories and everything pieced together wonderfully. Some readers might not be able to reconcile the constant back-and-forth feelings of Andi and the disagreements she has with David; but if you're a hardcore Andi-David fan like I am, you'll love every minute of it!
I also need to take a minute to simply gush over how wonderful it is to have the opportunity to read about Andi and David again. After each novel I don't expect another sequel, but I'm always pleasantly surprised and continuously impressed by what Elisa Lorello does with these characters (and/or what they do to her). Andi and David have been written so carefully and realistically over the course of this series that reading about them again is like burrowing into a safe, warm cocoon (despite how emotionally nerve-racking their situations may be). I know this sounds cheesy and possibly "unprofessional" if I'm to be taken seriously or trusted as a reviewer, but these characters just make me very happy, even warm and fuzzy. Lorello has a sincere talent for crafting real people within the pages of her books. If you haven't started this series, what are you waiting for?
Bottom Line: So perfect. So fulfilling. So thoughtful. So smart. Such a considerate continuation of characters we know and love. If you love chick lit, women's fiction, contemporary romance - whatever you want to call it-- you will love this series! 5/5 Stars.
For the first time I think I've realized why God intended for me to become a book review blogger: to receive an Advanced Reader Copy of this book for a blog tour! Okay, I jest (or at least exaggerate); but to say I have been anxiously anticipating the third book in the Andi Cutrone series is an understatement! Which is also why this review is longer than usual. After recently re-reading Faking It, the first novel in the series, I was concerned She Has Your Eyes had too much to live up to. However, as always, Elisa Lorello delivers chick lit even smarter than before with an emotional novel that will have you falling in love with Andi and Dev all over again.
Taking place almost a year after Ordinary World ends, Andi and David are finally together, living a simple and fulfilling life in Andi's Northampton home. Besides David's insistence that they should get married, life is pretty perfect. But when a fifteen-year old girl shows up on their doorstep with life-changing news for David, their seamless life quickly begins to fray. Additionally, Andi's mother shares a secret of her own and Andi's ex-fiance, Andrew, has re-surfaced into her life as well. With so much changing, marriage is the last thing on Andi and David's minds anymore. In fact, it might even be the last thing in their futures.
In She Has Your Eyes, one writing exercise Andi gives to her students is to write about three unrelated life events and find a way to link them together. What I found in Lorello's storytelling is that she uses this formula to build Andi's story within the pages of this novel. The first experience is the arrival of Wiley, the second is Andi's mother's secret, and the third is the resurfacing of Andrew. These three events happen somewhat simultaneously and affect both Andi and David's lives and even threaten their relationship. I spent much of this novel considering the common thread between these three events, and perhaps it will be different for every reader as they take what they find amongst the pages. Because I don't want to spoil the specific challenges each of these three situations presents to Andi, I won't reveal my explication of her experiences. However, if you read the book, I welcome any one-on-one bookish discussions!
A major theme throughout the book is the past versus the present, especially through the evolution of relationships. Andi and her mother evaluate their new-found ability to communicate against the history of their isolation and resentment of each other. Andrew appraises Andi against the guarded version of her he was engaged to a decade before. Vulnerable David struggles with Devin, the self-assured alter-ego of his past. Even Andi must examine who she is, who she was, and who she's going to become amidst all of the change. As each character navigates these changes, I noticed a lot of them "faking it" so to speak; David acting more fearless with Wiley than he felt; Andi's fake interactions with Andrew; the brave face Andi's mom puts on despite how she feels. I really loved how some of the themes from the first novel in the series resounded in this part of the characters' journeys.
My only complaint with this book (besides the fact that it has an ending!) is that all of the information and various interactions initially seemed somewhat chaotic. However, I trusted Lorello as an author and sure enough, I found commonality between the stories and everything pieced together wonderfully. Some readers might not be able to reconcile the constant back-and-forth feelings of Andi and the disagreements she has with David; but if you're a hardcore Andi-David fan like I am, you'll love every minute of it!
I also need to take a minute to simply gush over how wonderful it is to have the opportunity to read about Andi and David again. After each novel I don't expect another sequel, but I'm always pleasantly surprised and continuously impressed by what Elisa Lorello does with these characters (and/or what they do to her). Andi and David have been written so carefully and realistically over the course of this series that reading about them again is like burrowing into a safe, warm cocoon (despite how emotionally nerve-racking their situations may be). I know this sounds cheesy and possibly "unprofessional" if I'm to be taken seriously or trusted as a reviewer, but these characters just make me very happy, even warm and fuzzy. Lorello has a sincere talent for crafting real people within the pages of her books. If you haven't started this series, what are you waiting for?
Bottom Line: So perfect. So fulfilling. So thoughtful. So smart. Such a considerate continuation of characters we know and love. If you love chick lit, women's fiction, contemporary romance - whatever you want to call it-- you will love this series! 5/5 Stars.
April 25, 2014
In the first book in this series, the main character, Andi, makes the journey from deeply insecure to self-loving. But, by the end of the first book she has started to get past self-love to self-centered. In the second and third books she just gets more and more selfish and blithely hurtful toward others. I'm almost halfway through this book, the final in the series, and I'm so disgusted by her that I'm not even going to finish it. And that says a lot. I've finished some pretty bad books just because of my need to know how it ends. With Andi, I just couldn't care less how things end for her. And I can't read another scene where she hurts the person who's loved her for over a decade and acts like it's ok to do so because people who love themselves should do what makes them happy, blah, blah. This series was a waste of time and money. I wish I'd never heard of it.
February 20, 2014
I remember reading 'Faking it' and 'Ordinary World' and how I loved them both. I also remember how I felt at the end and none of them evoked the feelings I have for 'She has your eyes'.
Don't assume you know the content or progression of this book, because you will be wrong! I surely was. The entire series reads as complete stand alone's and this one is no different. You never feel cheated or short changed after reading a book from this series. Closure and content is too mild to describe the feelings I got from this story.
Maybe I am getting older or its the material and genre of this novel, but this is what I have been looking for in the longest while! The problems are every day struggles that transcends to the pages beautifully! It's nice to take a break from young adults and traverse the world of womanhood. The over 35 crowd can be quite spectacular :)
This is reality, even if in the end, is the better side.
Andi and David has stayed true to their characters throughout this series and watching them acclimate to the problems thrown their way is great. But even with the changes, we are thrown in the past with a little Devin/Cutrone madness occasionally. The thing that could have made this book scorching is more detailed sex scenes, but that wasn't even necessary. Their story stood on it's own without the help of sexual gimmicks. There was enough good content, issues, momentum and struggles to last us a lifetime!
I love Wylie! She is a riot! If anything, I would have loved to spend more time with her character. She is not what I expected and she definitely contributed spice to this novel. She came in like hurricane force winds and kept her momentum throughout. Her personality, reactions and presence was a great addition and I love when she fell in the role of a typical teenager. Trish seems just as awesome!
Separate and apart from the obvious main issue of this novel, we got to clear mistakes of the past and curve our way to the future. We even got a wedding in the mix :) English lessons were prominent as always. For anyone interested in details, you will love this book. If you don't learn anything after reading this novel, then you should probably read it again ;)
This book did something for me that 'Ordinary World' didn't. It helped me understand and appreciate Sam's character for the first time. I still don't approve of it, but I understand it.
Andi's relationship with her brothers have always been solid, but we get some one on one time with her mom and that was more precious than anything else highlighted in this novel. Even with death plaguing the fringes of this novel, it never once felt like 'Faking it' or 'Ordinary World'. There is evolution and growth. You are transported to a different time in both Andi and David's life. You get to see them struggle to find their footing, as both individuals and a couple.
The surprise for me was the inclusion of Andrew in the story. If you don't remember Andrew, then you need not worry. You will by the end of this novel. All I will say is, he shook this book and no one, or at least I, didn't even remember him. I will not though.
A more mature crowd would understand and appreciate this novel, but anyone can give it a go. It is real, concise, detailed and leave you wanting more while feeling satisfied. Women's Fiction has a new face, and her name is Elisa Lorello.
Don't assume you know the content or progression of this book, because you will be wrong! I surely was. The entire series reads as complete stand alone's and this one is no different. You never feel cheated or short changed after reading a book from this series. Closure and content is too mild to describe the feelings I got from this story.
Maybe I am getting older or its the material and genre of this novel, but this is what I have been looking for in the longest while! The problems are every day struggles that transcends to the pages beautifully! It's nice to take a break from young adults and traverse the world of womanhood. The over 35 crowd can be quite spectacular :)
This is reality, even if in the end, is the better side.
Andi and David has stayed true to their characters throughout this series and watching them acclimate to the problems thrown their way is great. But even with the changes, we are thrown in the past with a little Devin/Cutrone madness occasionally. The thing that could have made this book scorching is more detailed sex scenes, but that wasn't even necessary. Their story stood on it's own without the help of sexual gimmicks. There was enough good content, issues, momentum and struggles to last us a lifetime!
I love Wylie! She is a riot! If anything, I would have loved to spend more time with her character. She is not what I expected and she definitely contributed spice to this novel. She came in like hurricane force winds and kept her momentum throughout. Her personality, reactions and presence was a great addition and I love when she fell in the role of a typical teenager. Trish seems just as awesome!
Separate and apart from the obvious main issue of this novel, we got to clear mistakes of the past and curve our way to the future. We even got a wedding in the mix :) English lessons were prominent as always. For anyone interested in details, you will love this book. If you don't learn anything after reading this novel, then you should probably read it again ;)
This book did something for me that 'Ordinary World' didn't. It helped me understand and appreciate Sam's character for the first time. I still don't approve of it, but I understand it.
Andi's relationship with her brothers have always been solid, but we get some one on one time with her mom and that was more precious than anything else highlighted in this novel. Even with death plaguing the fringes of this novel, it never once felt like 'Faking it' or 'Ordinary World'. There is evolution and growth. You are transported to a different time in both Andi and David's life. You get to see them struggle to find their footing, as both individuals and a couple.
The surprise for me was the inclusion of Andrew in the story. If you don't remember Andrew, then you need not worry. You will by the end of this novel. All I will say is, he shook this book and no one, or at least I, didn't even remember him. I will not though.
A more mature crowd would understand and appreciate this novel, but anyone can give it a go. It is real, concise, detailed and leave you wanting more while feeling satisfied. Women's Fiction has a new face, and her name is Elisa Lorello.
February 17, 2014
"She Has Your Eyes," the third installment of Elisa Lorello's exquisite series begun with "Faking It" and "Ordinary World," brings the reader back in to the world of Andi and David, a couple whose path has been wrought with excitement, drama, detour, and complication from its beginning. The new challenges they face in this novel not only rock the foundation of their relationship, but their identities as individuals as well. As is the case with all of Lorello's work, these characters are so beautifully drawn and their world so effectively realized that it is impossible not to invest in them completely; fully expect to begin and finish this book in one gut-wrenching, heartwarming, frustrating, inspiring, titillating sitting. In short, this novel will make you FEEL.
While there is sufficient, well-integrated exposition to allow a new reader to enjoy this book independently, I would strongly advise them to begin at the beginning, so to speak. As with any trip worth taking, the journey is the best part. Although the conclusion of this book is satisfying as it stands, spending time in this world will inevitably leave the reader hoping this will not be the last opportunity to visit these characters. They will live on in your imagination long after the final page is turned (or swiped); hopefully they will leap from Lorello's into print again soon!
While there is sufficient, well-integrated exposition to allow a new reader to enjoy this book independently, I would strongly advise them to begin at the beginning, so to speak. As with any trip worth taking, the journey is the best part. Although the conclusion of this book is satisfying as it stands, spending time in this world will inevitably leave the reader hoping this will not be the last opportunity to visit these characters. They will live on in your imagination long after the final page is turned (or swiped); hopefully they will leap from Lorello's into print again soon!
April 24, 2014
First, I want to say that I was extremely excited to receive this book for free as part of Goodreads First Reads! Thanks so much for selecting me!
I will be honest, this book is the third in a series and I had not read the two previous books which was a bit of a bummer but I found the story very easy to fall into and follow along with. In fact, I enjoyed this story so much that I am going to purchase the rest of the series.
This book tells the story of Andi, a strong, professional, New York woman that just about any female could relate to. Just like everyone else, Andi has hurdles in her life to overcome such as a strained relationship with her aging mother and the loss of her husband, however, she is a motivated individual with a set path for her life, that is, until something or someone walks into her life and causes Andi to re-evaluate her life's choices.
This book is relatable, exciting, and touching all at the same time. Basically, a very good choice if you are looking for an easy reading chick lit series!
I will be honest, this book is the third in a series and I had not read the two previous books which was a bit of a bummer but I found the story very easy to fall into and follow along with. In fact, I enjoyed this story so much that I am going to purchase the rest of the series.
This book tells the story of Andi, a strong, professional, New York woman that just about any female could relate to. Just like everyone else, Andi has hurdles in her life to overcome such as a strained relationship with her aging mother and the loss of her husband, however, she is a motivated individual with a set path for her life, that is, until something or someone walks into her life and causes Andi to re-evaluate her life's choices.
This book is relatable, exciting, and touching all at the same time. Basically, a very good choice if you are looking for an easy reading chick lit series!
September 16, 2015
This is the third installment in Andie and David's story. It doesn't disappoint.
I always love the author's references to the 80s,as that was back in the day for me as well.The book and movie versions of "The Outsiders", daydreaming of movie boyfriends, Judy Blume books...those were the days.
In "She Has Your Eyes", Andie is able to reconcile her relationship with her mother while dealing with several stressful situations at once.
I related to the part with
Andie and her mother the most in this story.A book
hasn't affected me so emotionally in a very long time.
As always, the chemistry and love between Andie and David is strong. The ending is satisfying with Wylie and the other circumstances affecting Andie and David's world.
Like all of Elisa Lorello's previous books, we have a winner.
I loved it.
I always love the author's references to the 80s,as that was back in the day for me as well.The book and movie versions of "The Outsiders", daydreaming of movie boyfriends, Judy Blume books...those were the days.
In "She Has Your Eyes", Andie is able to reconcile her relationship with her mother while dealing with several stressful situations at once.
I related to the part with
Andie and her mother the most in this story.A book
hasn't affected me so emotionally in a very long time.
As always, the chemistry and love between Andie and David is strong. The ending is satisfying with Wylie and the other circumstances affecting Andie and David's world.
Like all of Elisa Lorello's previous books, we have a winner.
I loved it.
July 4, 2014
A perfect ending
As the final book in the three part saga of David and And I I thought it brought perfect closure to their story. the whole saga was beautiful and heartfelt. I read all three books in three days. I definitely recommend reading these books.
As the final book in the three part saga of David and And I I thought it brought perfect closure to their story. the whole saga was beautiful and heartfelt. I read all three books in three days. I definitely recommend reading these books.
February 12, 2014
I loved this book. It was a wonderful conclusion to the story of Andi and David. It was beautifully written!
February 15, 2014
This book made me cry about a hundred times. It was very good!
January 13, 2018
Lesson filled
Just so blown away by the mixed emotions, love and lessons in this last sequel. Indeed in the end love prevailed.
Just so blown away by the mixed emotions, love and lessons in this last sequel. Indeed in the end love prevailed.
February 26, 2018
1.5 stars
What I liked:
1. I liked that Andi was a grown woman who decided that motherhood wasn’t for her and didn’t change her mind or cave to pressure. I am a mom and it’s the greatest joy of my life, but I totally respect people who fee differently. If you’re not sure it’s something you want, you shouldn’t do it.
That being said, I didn’t like how Andi blamed her poor relationship with her mother for the reason she didn’t want kids.
2. I didn’t have to pay for this drivel because it, along with the other books in the series, was on kindle unlimited.
What I didn’t like:
1. Character assassination. I hated that David acted completely out of character. I don’t care what he was going through. He never would treat Andi the way he did. He was turned into a total jerk in an attempt to get the reader to sympathize with Andi. This was completely unsuccessful. I still disliked Andi as much, if not more, than I did in the second book. Honestly, I kept having to remind myself that this was a 43 year old woman. She reads like a petty, selfish, insecure 20-something. To have the character of David morph into a completely different person was absolutely absurd.
2. Miscommunication as a plot device/toxic relationship. These two have such a toxic relationship. I don’t think they have a single conversation in this book that doesn’t begin or end with a fight or some sort of miscommunication. Both of them keep things from the other, even knowing that it’s hurting them in the long run.
3. Terrible dialogue. It’s awful. I go into more detail about this in my reviews for the previous books, but the short story is that people don’t talk the way these characters do. At one point, Wylie, David’s 15-year old daughter, says the line, “I was bored beyond measure.” I’m sorry, but 15-Year olds don’t speak that way. They just don’t.
4. Telling, not showing. This has been another prevalent problem of mine throughout these books. Andi’s inner voice becomes very philosophical and preachy, almost like she is reciting a textbook or something. It wasn’t quite as pronounced in this book, but it was still there. Also, there are several intimate scenes with absolutely no description. Now, I’m not saying I need all the details, but we’re given nothing.
One example of an intimate scene:
“And that was just the foreplay—the sex, God The sex! I don’t think we’d ever had sex like that.”
Ummm...what’s the point in writing sex scenes if you aren’t actually going to write them? Especially considering how blunt these characters are with each other—they casually discuss ‘fucking’ this person and that in the middle of relatively public places on a consistent basis. It just seems strange the line that the author drew when it came to what she chose to be descriptive about.
5. Andi. I know I already mentioned this, but it bears repeating: Andi is one of the most petty, annoying, selfish, insecure people I’ve ever had the misfortune to read about. She’s insufferable. Not only that, but she justifies all her bad behavior while vilifying others for similar behavior. She is such a hypocrite. I don’t know how many instances while reading this series I said to myself, “Pot, meet Kettle.” Pretty much every time she would get all judgmental and self-righteous...which was at least once per chapter.
Other odds and ends:
-Did you know that Wylie has David’s eyes? Because she totally does. She has his eyes. And don’t forget. Not that you would be able to forget, because you’re reminded every 15 pages or so that she has his eyes. Not just the color, but the shape! 🙄🙄🙄
-I don’t like when books use cancer as a plot device. It’s literally in this book to throw a wedge between David and Andi. There were a couple of moments, especially at the end, where I had some mild feels about it, but it didn’t feel particularly well-developed.
-Oh, and Andi has her father’s eyes. So she and Wylie have something in common. They both have their father’s eyes. Because in case I forgot to mention it 632 times, Wylie has David’s eyes.
What I liked:
1. I liked that Andi was a grown woman who decided that motherhood wasn’t for her and didn’t change her mind or cave to pressure. I am a mom and it’s the greatest joy of my life, but I totally respect people who fee differently. If you’re not sure it’s something you want, you shouldn’t do it.
That being said, I didn’t like how Andi blamed her poor relationship with her mother for the reason she didn’t want kids.
2. I didn’t have to pay for this drivel because it, along with the other books in the series, was on kindle unlimited.
What I didn’t like:
1. Character assassination. I hated that David acted completely out of character. I don’t care what he was going through. He never would treat Andi the way he did. He was turned into a total jerk in an attempt to get the reader to sympathize with Andi. This was completely unsuccessful. I still disliked Andi as much, if not more, than I did in the second book. Honestly, I kept having to remind myself that this was a 43 year old woman. She reads like a petty, selfish, insecure 20-something. To have the character of David morph into a completely different person was absolutely absurd.
2. Miscommunication as a plot device/toxic relationship. These two have such a toxic relationship. I don’t think they have a single conversation in this book that doesn’t begin or end with a fight or some sort of miscommunication. Both of them keep things from the other, even knowing that it’s hurting them in the long run.
3. Terrible dialogue. It’s awful. I go into more detail about this in my reviews for the previous books, but the short story is that people don’t talk the way these characters do. At one point, Wylie, David’s 15-year old daughter, says the line, “I was bored beyond measure.” I’m sorry, but 15-Year olds don’t speak that way. They just don’t.
4. Telling, not showing. This has been another prevalent problem of mine throughout these books. Andi’s inner voice becomes very philosophical and preachy, almost like she is reciting a textbook or something. It wasn’t quite as pronounced in this book, but it was still there. Also, there are several intimate scenes with absolutely no description. Now, I’m not saying I need all the details, but we’re given nothing.
One example of an intimate scene:
“And that was just the foreplay—the sex, God The sex! I don’t think we’d ever had sex like that.”
Ummm...what’s the point in writing sex scenes if you aren’t actually going to write them? Especially considering how blunt these characters are with each other—they casually discuss ‘fucking’ this person and that in the middle of relatively public places on a consistent basis. It just seems strange the line that the author drew when it came to what she chose to be descriptive about.
5. Andi. I know I already mentioned this, but it bears repeating: Andi is one of the most petty, annoying, selfish, insecure people I’ve ever had the misfortune to read about. She’s insufferable. Not only that, but she justifies all her bad behavior while vilifying others for similar behavior. She is such a hypocrite. I don’t know how many instances while reading this series I said to myself, “Pot, meet Kettle.” Pretty much every time she would get all judgmental and self-righteous...which was at least once per chapter.
Other odds and ends:
-Did you know that Wylie has David’s eyes? Because she totally does. She has his eyes. And don’t forget. Not that you would be able to forget, because you’re reminded every 15 pages or so that she has his eyes. Not just the color, but the shape! 🙄🙄🙄
-I don’t like when books use cancer as a plot device. It’s literally in this book to throw a wedge between David and Andi. There were a couple of moments, especially at the end, where I had some mild feels about it, but it didn’t feel particularly well-developed.
-Oh, and Andi has her father’s eyes. So she and Wylie have something in common. They both have their father’s eyes. Because in case I forgot to mention it 632 times, Wylie has David’s eyes.
June 9, 2019
great finale
I was worried that there were too many elements in this book... and that the drama would take away from the reader's connection to the characters. Wrong!! The author wove in many real life events (new child, blended family, cancer, ex-boyfriend, etc.) and managed to take the reader into the myriad of emotions felt by the characters. great finale
I was worried that there were too many elements in this book... and that the drama would take away from the reader's connection to the characters. Wrong!! The author wove in many real life events (new child, blended family, cancer, ex-boyfriend, etc.) and managed to take the reader into the myriad of emotions felt by the characters. great finale
January 12, 2023
So far this is the third book in the series, and they have all been really good. This is one of those books that if you want to have a little bit of a good cry, there’s time for it just keep on reading. It definitely want the spokes where you could read and read and never put down. Can’t wait to read book 4 of the series.
July 8, 2017
I liked this trilogy. No matter who you are there is something to overcome in your life and Andi had a unique manner of doing just that. Her character was inspirational and it was a joy to travel with her on her journey to becoming her authentic self.
December 16, 2022
A very thoughtful deep story. It touches upon the passing of someone important in your life and healing wounds that went deep into the heart. I enjoyed the wording, the touching well told family moments.
January 28, 2024
A happy ending or is it?
I absolutely loved this book and the series. Book 3 It has a wonderful ending to the story of Andi and David!
I loved all the characters and would definitely recommend this series!
I have since discovered that Elisa Lorello has more books in the series and look forward to reading these as well!!
Love, Wylie book 4
Faked Out (The other side of the story by Devin)
I absolutely loved this book and the series. Book 3 It has a wonderful ending to the story of Andi and David!
I loved all the characters and would definitely recommend this series!
I have since discovered that Elisa Lorello has more books in the series and look forward to reading these as well!!
Love, Wylie book 4
Faked Out (The other side of the story by Devin)
December 31, 2016
my review
I loved this book and will recommend it to all my friends and family that love to read as much as I do.
I loved this book and will recommend it to all my friends and family that love to read as much as I do.
November 16, 2017
Enjoyable easy read
December 28, 2017
Leaves you hoping for a next chapter
I’ve loved the characters in this series. Seeing what happened to the characters after the first books was unexpected and I loved it.
I’ve loved the characters in this series. Seeing what happened to the characters after the first books was unexpected and I loved it.
May 1, 2018
Easy read
It was a sweet, easy read and a nice continuation of her previous book. Some surprises and overall very enjoyable.
It was a sweet, easy read and a nice continuation of her previous book. Some surprises and overall very enjoyable.
February 3, 2019
Beautifully created characters
This story feels like real life. I just adore these characters. The arguments, the holidays, the situations - they all feel very authentic.
This story feels like real life. I just adore these characters. The arguments, the holidays, the situations - they all feel very authentic.
June 15, 2019
Couldn’t read it. Return Kindle U after couple chapters
June 24, 2023
I just stopped liking the characters.
May 9, 2017
It was ok. Didn't like the ending. Left you with nothing. Overall good readj
I don't think I would read again tho but it was descent. Too much drama and sex for me too
I don't think I would read again tho but it was descent. Too much drama and sex for me too
March 7, 2014
From my blog
Published - February 11, 2014
I absolutely loved Faking It, it was on my 2013 Top Ten list. I finished it and downloaded Ordinary World immediately to read, something I never do. I loved the continuation of characters but Book 2 wasn't what I expected overall. Now finishing book 3, She has your Eyes, I feel like it was a great complete story and I am happy to have read more of the amazing characters. I love the story of Andi and David, so much more than a romance.
This is a trilogy that can only be fully appreciated by reading in order. The author was great on giving snippets of the story for the fans of the trilogy but not details for a new reader to really appreciate their journey. We see Andi really come into her own, having to embrace the changes of life. I loved that the books gave great character building with a new adult issue in each, they all felt completely different. Andi doesn't like change, it freezes her but with numerous life issues coming at her the same time she almost turns her back on the one who she loves, David, and this causes a ripple affect of trust issues. Sometimes looking at our past helps us to embrace our future without regrets, she had to learn this the hard way. The end of the trilogy in one word was about Family.
Andi is a widow and David has accepted everything about Andi and Sam's life. I was annoyed with the fact that Andi continued to live in the past and continue to think about Sam and doubt everything, comparing everything to her life with Sam. It made sense at the end when we understood Andi's issue with change, Sam was her comfort through all the change but at times it felt infuriating. This is a great adult novel series, I highly recommend, I give the trilogy as a whole a 5. There are not many stories out there about the challenges adults face, especially the over 30 age group, when the reality of adult responsibilities hits home, that was a joy. Elisa Lorello has a great way to make you laugh out loud, just cute, genuine writing, I am a fan. You can read this one as a stand alone but I would say to enjoy the full picture, read in order.
Published - February 11, 2014
I absolutely loved Faking It, it was on my 2013 Top Ten list. I finished it and downloaded Ordinary World immediately to read, something I never do. I loved the continuation of characters but Book 2 wasn't what I expected overall. Now finishing book 3, She has your Eyes, I feel like it was a great complete story and I am happy to have read more of the amazing characters. I love the story of Andi and David, so much more than a romance.
This is a trilogy that can only be fully appreciated by reading in order. The author was great on giving snippets of the story for the fans of the trilogy but not details for a new reader to really appreciate their journey. We see Andi really come into her own, having to embrace the changes of life. I loved that the books gave great character building with a new adult issue in each, they all felt completely different. Andi doesn't like change, it freezes her but with numerous life issues coming at her the same time she almost turns her back on the one who she loves, David, and this causes a ripple affect of trust issues. Sometimes looking at our past helps us to embrace our future without regrets, she had to learn this the hard way. The end of the trilogy in one word was about Family.
Andi is a widow and David has accepted everything about Andi and Sam's life. I was annoyed with the fact that Andi continued to live in the past and continue to think about Sam and doubt everything, comparing everything to her life with Sam. It made sense at the end when we understood Andi's issue with change, Sam was her comfort through all the change but at times it felt infuriating. This is a great adult novel series, I highly recommend, I give the trilogy as a whole a 5. There are not many stories out there about the challenges adults face, especially the over 30 age group, when the reality of adult responsibilities hits home, that was a joy. Elisa Lorello has a great way to make you laugh out loud, just cute, genuine writing, I am a fan. You can read this one as a stand alone but I would say to enjoy the full picture, read in order.
July 24, 2014
Finally, I got to see some of the growth in Andi that I was hoping for since I finished Ordinary World! I was completely frustrated with her by the ending of book two, and though I understood that she was still deeply grieving Sam's death, I felt that most of her behavior was selfish and totally self absorbed. The author did a wonderful job with this conclusion to Andi and David's story, and I was glued to my Kindle so that I could see how it was all going to play out. Now don't get me wrong, though Andi made some incredible growth by the end of this story, she still made some stupid and childish choices that made me want to just shake some sense in her and say, Girl wake up and cherish that wonderful man in your life!!!
Love the plot twist that the author incorporated into this story, and as Andi continued to heal and evolve, David had his own challenges to bear; and just when they were getting into a good groove with their relationship, they both experience a life changing family dynamic that creates a wedge between them. I was concerned that they might not find their way back to each other, especially when Andi seeks refuge in her cheating ex-fiancé (this one really frustrated the hell out of me, lol). But again, this author is so talented in her writing style that she evokes such strong emotion from her readers. All in all, this is truly a wonderful series, with well thought out characters and an interested plot line, touching life lessons, and real everyday family and relationship challenges and hardships that we can all relate to. I would definitely recommend this series and this author. Thanks Elisa for a wonderful journey.
Love the plot twist that the author incorporated into this story, and as Andi continued to heal and evolve, David had his own challenges to bear; and just when they were getting into a good groove with their relationship, they both experience a life changing family dynamic that creates a wedge between them. I was concerned that they might not find their way back to each other, especially when Andi seeks refuge in her cheating ex-fiancé (this one really frustrated the hell out of me, lol). But again, this author is so talented in her writing style that she evokes such strong emotion from her readers. All in all, this is truly a wonderful series, with well thought out characters and an interested plot line, touching life lessons, and real everyday family and relationship challenges and hardships that we can all relate to. I would definitely recommend this series and this author. Thanks Elisa for a wonderful journey.
January 18, 2015
“What’s a marriage license going to give us that we don’t already have?”
“Proof,” he said.
“Of what?”
“That we’re a family.”
Andi and David have settled happily into Andi’s Northampton home, but David wants more. He wants them to get married. But their discussion is put on hold when Wylie, a fifteen-year-old girl, shows up in their backyard, bearing news that takes David’s mind off the future and sends it spiraling into the past.
Reeling from David’s news, Andi receives a startling announcement of her own, one that leads to a relationship with her estranged mother. As Andi and her mother get closer and Wylie weaves her way into their lives, Andi finds solace in an old comfort: her ex-fiancé.
With the past threatening to eclipse their future, the timing for a wedding is all wrong. But if Andi knows anything about timing, it’s that there’s no time to waste.
--My thoughts. Well this author grabbed me from the beginning and now I am a fan. I have not read the first two, but I am going to run out and get them as soon as I can! I love how she was describing teenagers, feisty LOL. Made me laugh out loud, my family gave me strange looks. This book has serious tones to it, as the teenage daughter that is not theirs comes onto the scene, the mom is dying and are they going to get married? Make sure you grab some Kleenex for this one. This would make for an excellent movie I think. I could not get enough and read in only one sitting. How can you not! Andi is an excellent character, one we can see ourselves in right? Happy reading!
“Proof,” he said.
“Of what?”
“That we’re a family.”
Andi and David have settled happily into Andi’s Northampton home, but David wants more. He wants them to get married. But their discussion is put on hold when Wylie, a fifteen-year-old girl, shows up in their backyard, bearing news that takes David’s mind off the future and sends it spiraling into the past.
Reeling from David’s news, Andi receives a startling announcement of her own, one that leads to a relationship with her estranged mother. As Andi and her mother get closer and Wylie weaves her way into their lives, Andi finds solace in an old comfort: her ex-fiancé.
With the past threatening to eclipse their future, the timing for a wedding is all wrong. But if Andi knows anything about timing, it’s that there’s no time to waste.
--My thoughts. Well this author grabbed me from the beginning and now I am a fan. I have not read the first two, but I am going to run out and get them as soon as I can! I love how she was describing teenagers, feisty LOL. Made me laugh out loud, my family gave me strange looks. This book has serious tones to it, as the teenage daughter that is not theirs comes onto the scene, the mom is dying and are they going to get married? Make sure you grab some Kleenex for this one. This would make for an excellent movie I think. I could not get enough and read in only one sitting. How can you not! Andi is an excellent character, one we can see ourselves in right? Happy reading!
July 23, 2016
The entire series was just exceptional, this is book three. This is not your traditional romance novel with 20 year old billionaires and airhead vigins. This novel has mature, smart characters that are followed from their 30s into their early 50s. Yay!!
We see them struggle with life...love lost and found, dying parents, the death of a spouse, careers, aging, relationships with family, compromising, passion, lust, and reinventing and rediscovering themselves. This series has depth and a texture to it that are not often found in romance novels. The quality of the writing is better than almost anything I've read in this genre. This is a tightly woven story, though it did drag in a few places, mostly it dragged when the author started to focus too much on Andi's knowledge as a writing/literature professor.
The book is about Andi,a women who hires a male escort, named Devin/David, to help her find and become comfortable with her sexuality. In return, she teaches him to become a writer. She is a professor. During this time they develop a mutual attractation but never have intercourse. The story follows them and the evolution of their relationship over more than a decade.
We see them struggle with life...love lost and found, dying parents, the death of a spouse, careers, aging, relationships with family, compromising, passion, lust, and reinventing and rediscovering themselves. This series has depth and a texture to it that are not often found in romance novels. The quality of the writing is better than almost anything I've read in this genre. This is a tightly woven story, though it did drag in a few places, mostly it dragged when the author started to focus too much on Andi's knowledge as a writing/literature professor.
The book is about Andi,a women who hires a male escort, named Devin/David, to help her find and become comfortable with her sexuality. In return, she teaches him to become a writer. She is a professor. During this time they develop a mutual attractation but never have intercourse. The story follows them and the evolution of their relationship over more than a decade.
July 25, 2014
Ok so this is how this review is going to go: I am reviewing all three books of the series at the same time (my star rating is an "average" for the whole series). I did not finish the last book because frankly, it was getting dragged out and I got bored with the story. I'm just over it, seriously. There is some very good subject matter and real life situations and the whole story around her husband and the game changer that occurred was very serious and dramatic; however, I could have done without all the references to art and rhetoric. If I want to learn more about it, I'll read a freaking book about it ok? Stop dragging us down with extensive details on writing 101. There seemed to be a lot of time wasted doing this very thing, so much so that I think this book could have seriously been two if not one book overall. It was a good story but I just couldn't do it anymore. I got halfway through book three and just gave up.
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