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Charleston Haven #1
Pieces of Olivia
Olivia Warren used to be a normal girl with a bright future. But on one fated night, everything changed.
Hiding the scars of her past up her sleeves, Olivia transfers her enrollment from Columbia University to The College of Charleston, determined to pursue her own dreams for the first time in her life.
She intends to allow herself a bit of alone time to heal... that is, until she meets Preston.
Preston is best friends with her roommate, completely hot, and off-limits. But the chemistry between them is instantaneous—and as the pair begins to spend more time with one another, their feelings for each other build into something undeniable, something powerful enough to heal Olivia's deepest scars.
Olivia tries to put her own past behind her and trust Preston, but she discovers that his past might be more present than she ever bargained for...
Melissa West lives in a suburb of Atlanta, GA with her husband and...
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2014
21 people are currently reading
2484 people want to read
About the author
Melissa West
16 books1,204 followersMelissa West is the USA TODAY bestselling author of swoony Southern romance and YA sci-fi romance,
all with lots of kissing. Because who doesn't like kissing?. She lives outside of Atlanta, GA with her husband and two daughters and spends most of her time writing, reading, or fueling her coffee addiction.
She holds a B.A. in Communication Studies and a M.S. in Graphic Communication, both from Clemson University.
Connect with Melissa at www.melissawestauthor.com.
She holds a B.A. in Communication Studies and a M.S. in Graphic Communication, both from Clemson University.
Connect with Melissa at www.melissawestauthor.com.
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July 18, 2014DNF @ 48%
I tried. I really did, but after reaching 48% and finding myself so bored I almost fell asleep with an ereader on my face, I decided it's just not worth my time. There are too many books for me to fall in love with to waste my precious reading time on BORING CLICHES.
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December 2, 2014For book updates, giveaways, sneak peeks at upcoming books, and general awesomeness, join my newsletter here!
This book is near and dear to my heart. It is set in Charleston, SC, is full of an eclectic mix of characters (including a smoking therapist, who loves blueberry ice-cream), and is deeply emotional. It is unlike anything I have written, yet still holds true to my style. In short, I love it, and I hope you will, too!
3-13-14: Check out an excerpt of the book and enter to win a copy! Click here
This book is near and dear to my heart. It is set in Charleston, SC, is full of an eclectic mix of characters (including a smoking therapist, who loves blueberry ice-cream), and is deeply emotional. It is unlike anything I have written, yet still holds true to my style. In short, I love it, and I hope you will, too!
3-13-14: Check out an excerpt of the book and enter to win a copy! Click here
July 18, 2014
This is a story of:
Loss
Grief
Coping
Second chances
Love
Forgiveness
Peace
Take the journey with Olivia as she starts a new school year at a new college, makes new friends and finds love. All of this while she grieves the loss of her dearest friends, finds a way to cope and tries to stay up to par on her classes.
During this journey Olivia will reveal pieces of her pain, while secrets maybe her undoing.
What I Liked:
1. Rose and her unconventional ways
2. Kara & Olivia's friendship
3. Christmas break
4. Preston
5. Fishing
6. Fast paced story
7. Told all in Olivia's POV
8. The last chapter
Loss
Grief
Coping
Second chances
Love
Forgiveness
Peace
Take the journey with Olivia as she starts a new school year at a new college, makes new friends and finds love. All of this while she grieves the loss of her dearest friends, finds a way to cope and tries to stay up to par on her classes.
During this journey Olivia will reveal pieces of her pain, while secrets maybe her undoing.
What I Liked:
1. Rose and her unconventional ways
2. Kara & Olivia's friendship
3. Christmas break
4. Preston
5. Fishing
6. Fast paced story
7. Told all in Olivia's POV
8. The last chapter
September 2, 2014
Initial reaction: It was a decently written narrative, and the strength of the characters apart from some of the cliches were what made this stand out to me. But it still had issues to me that I didn't really care that much for.
Full review:
For my first read from Melissa West, this actually was a decent narrative when I juxtapose it with about 90% of what New Adult offers up, and it surprised me. The characterizations in this are memorable and vivid, the college environment is set up very well (it makes sense that the author knows South Carolina), and there are genuinely humorous moments peppered between some tough coming to terms for the female protagonist. This book had me in several places and I admitted I enjoyed the moments it offered.
So why the 2 stars? The plot paint by numbers formula would be one thing, the handling of the reveal towards the end (which I saw coming, but I wondered how it would handle the measure) would be another. Not to mention the quirky therapist set me the wrong way. I can usually never completely get behind supposed quirky therapist characters in this genre (see my review of "Ten Tiny Breaths"/"One Tiny Lie") because there's always something about it that trivializes the severity and gravity of mental illness or jarring events that change one's life. Rose actually wasn't a bad character (and hey, I wanted to like her because she's got my namesake!), but while I could be behind some of her interactions with Olivia, I didn't necessarily always like the route taken.
Before I go too far, let me recap: this is about a young woman named Olivia who transfers from Columbia U to the College of Charleston, SC after a horrific incident that leaves her scarred in more ways than one. She meets her new roommate Kara (and indeed, I liked Olivia's chemistry with Kara) alongside crushing on Kara's best friend, Preston. Preston has moments when he's mischevious and funny, and I liked him initially too. The plot toggles between Olivia trying to come to terms with a horrific loss and secrets she keeps inside, but also coping with her relationships at school, her parents and their wishes for her, and her romance with Preston - which seems like a conflict of interest from the get go, but builds upon itself as the narrative goes on. I won't spoil the overarching reveal, but seriously? You can guess it after a time.
What made this narrative stand out to me were the characters. Their voices, issues, ideals, just in general getting a much needed deep POV set. I got into Olivia's head well in the scope of this narrative. I liked how assertive she was (thank goodness, because so many NA female leads are so achingly passive, it's unrealistic). She knows what she wants and doesn't want - though there are moments when she lapses because of the pain she's dealing with. I liked how the narrative handled Olivia's grief as well - it felt palpable for the events and losses that came across. The personal messages and expansions were a nice touch. The psychological trials she goes through feel vivid and I liked how the narrative progressed with respect to that shown in and of itself.
The chemistry between Olivia and Preston was decent, enough for me to get behind even when there were moments that felt too genre familiar. Even Kara's friendship was less cut throat for Olivia's experiences and more on the side of mutual understanding. Seeing the family interactions and aims of the characters was a nice touch as well.
There are caveats to this narrative, though - and I debated in my head the longest time with it because despite this book knocking some cliches down, it builds others up just as much as other titles among its peers.
Rose left me conflicted, because there were pertinent moments in Olivia's bargaining that she was actually helpful. And I did like one moment when it seemed like Olivia shot Rose down for trying to manipulate events for an ideal reunion after having quite the spat with Preston (hint: it has to do with a long guarded secret through the narrative). But other moments, Rose had me scratching my head for some of her commentary. I still don't understand how she could assert that people who lie are somehow more intelligent than those who don't. *shakes head* Maybe she meant to say that lying takes creativity? No idea. Seriously, I have no idea.
The whole reveal of Preston's past relations and such was so sketch that it really threw me out of the book with the way it was presented. Olivia, I imagined, wouldn't take well to the news. Understandable. I guessed that even before the reveal came about. Didn't expect the transition and acceptance of matters to be that jarring, though. =/
Overall, it was just an okay narrative. Very heavy with NA cliches, and formulaic, but much better written than most in this genre. I still didn't love the narrative, though, and even when the characters were strongly asserted, they still really had little distinction compared to narratives that aren't so formulaic.
Overall score: 2/5 stars
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher.
Full review:
For my first read from Melissa West, this actually was a decent narrative when I juxtapose it with about 90% of what New Adult offers up, and it surprised me. The characterizations in this are memorable and vivid, the college environment is set up very well (it makes sense that the author knows South Carolina), and there are genuinely humorous moments peppered between some tough coming to terms for the female protagonist. This book had me in several places and I admitted I enjoyed the moments it offered.
So why the 2 stars? The plot paint by numbers formula would be one thing, the handling of the reveal towards the end (which I saw coming, but I wondered how it would handle the measure) would be another. Not to mention the quirky therapist set me the wrong way. I can usually never completely get behind supposed quirky therapist characters in this genre (see my review of "Ten Tiny Breaths"/"One Tiny Lie") because there's always something about it that trivializes the severity and gravity of mental illness or jarring events that change one's life. Rose actually wasn't a bad character (and hey, I wanted to like her because she's got my namesake!), but while I could be behind some of her interactions with Olivia, I didn't necessarily always like the route taken.
Before I go too far, let me recap: this is about a young woman named Olivia who transfers from Columbia U to the College of Charleston, SC after a horrific incident that leaves her scarred in more ways than one. She meets her new roommate Kara (and indeed, I liked Olivia's chemistry with Kara) alongside crushing on Kara's best friend, Preston. Preston has moments when he's mischevious and funny, and I liked him initially too. The plot toggles between Olivia trying to come to terms with a horrific loss and secrets she keeps inside, but also coping with her relationships at school, her parents and their wishes for her, and her romance with Preston - which seems like a conflict of interest from the get go, but builds upon itself as the narrative goes on. I won't spoil the overarching reveal, but seriously? You can guess it after a time.
What made this narrative stand out to me were the characters. Their voices, issues, ideals, just in general getting a much needed deep POV set. I got into Olivia's head well in the scope of this narrative. I liked how assertive she was (thank goodness, because so many NA female leads are so achingly passive, it's unrealistic). She knows what she wants and doesn't want - though there are moments when she lapses because of the pain she's dealing with. I liked how the narrative handled Olivia's grief as well - it felt palpable for the events and losses that came across. The personal messages and expansions were a nice touch. The psychological trials she goes through feel vivid and I liked how the narrative progressed with respect to that shown in and of itself.
The chemistry between Olivia and Preston was decent, enough for me to get behind even when there were moments that felt too genre familiar. Even Kara's friendship was less cut throat for Olivia's experiences and more on the side of mutual understanding. Seeing the family interactions and aims of the characters was a nice touch as well.
There are caveats to this narrative, though - and I debated in my head the longest time with it because despite this book knocking some cliches down, it builds others up just as much as other titles among its peers.
Rose left me conflicted, because there were pertinent moments in Olivia's bargaining that she was actually helpful. And I did like one moment when it seemed like Olivia shot Rose down for trying to manipulate events for an ideal reunion after having quite the spat with Preston (hint: it has to do with a long guarded secret through the narrative). But other moments, Rose had me scratching my head for some of her commentary. I still don't understand how she could assert that people who lie are somehow more intelligent than those who don't. *shakes head* Maybe she meant to say that lying takes creativity? No idea. Seriously, I have no idea.
The whole reveal of Preston's past relations and such was so sketch that it really threw me out of the book with the way it was presented. Olivia, I imagined, wouldn't take well to the news. Understandable. I guessed that even before the reveal came about. Didn't expect the transition and acceptance of matters to be that jarring, though. =/
Overall, it was just an okay narrative. Very heavy with NA cliches, and formulaic, but much better written than most in this genre. I still didn't love the narrative, though, and even when the characters were strongly asserted, they still really had little distinction compared to narratives that aren't so formulaic.
Overall score: 2/5 stars
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher.
July 17, 2014
3 - "I never met a crease that time couldn't iron out." Stars.
Pieces of Olivia, is one of those books that I didn’t love, but I didn’t hate it either. The story had great potential, but it didn’t quite hit the mark with regards to me giving it a higher star rating.
Olivia has moved to the College of Charleston, to make a fresh start and too try and leave the ghosts of her past behind. Scarred physically and mentally, she struggles daily to try and live a normal life and not allow her grief consume her, with the help of her counsellor Rose, and her friends Kara and Preston.
”We all have reasons for why we do things, even if those reasons seem crazy too others.”
Preston Riggs doesn't do commitment, but he does like doing women, being the bestie of her room-mate Kara, Olivia spends quite a bit of time with him. Although their attraction is mutual, both are carrying secrets from their pasts that neither is very willing to share. Olivia is also nervous of Preston’s commitment issues, but gradually over time opens up to him about her past, and her feelings for him.
”I can’t promise anything. I have nothing in me to promise, but that doesn't mean I won’t try.”
I liked Olivia, I liked Preston and I liked Kara, I also liked the storyline, but I didn’t love it or really feel any connection between any of them. Once Preston started to reveal snippets of his past, and his reasoning behind his commitment issues, I put the who/how and why together pretty quickly. There is huge potential in this story, and there were gems of brilliance at points, just not enough development in the important areas to make it really sparkle.
”I am anything but typical.” ... “And I am willing to show you just how untypical I am if you’d like a test drive.”
I found a lot of the dialogue and the progression of the relationship a little stilted, Preston and Olivia needed more development, in particular the points of the story when their emotions were in play, the sex, the talking and the plot reveals all felt incomplete. Kind of like an unmade bed, if the sheets, pillows and comforter had been added the story would have been a total winner for me.
I would certainly read more work by Melissa West, I am not sure that I would continue with this particular series though. Book 2 – Miles from Kara, is due out December 2014.
ARC provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Pieces of Olivia, is one of those books that I didn’t love, but I didn’t hate it either. The story had great potential, but it didn’t quite hit the mark with regards to me giving it a higher star rating.
Olivia has moved to the College of Charleston, to make a fresh start and too try and leave the ghosts of her past behind. Scarred physically and mentally, she struggles daily to try and live a normal life and not allow her grief consume her, with the help of her counsellor Rose, and her friends Kara and Preston.
”We all have reasons for why we do things, even if those reasons seem crazy too others.”
Preston Riggs doesn't do commitment, but he does like doing women, being the bestie of her room-mate Kara, Olivia spends quite a bit of time with him. Although their attraction is mutual, both are carrying secrets from their pasts that neither is very willing to share. Olivia is also nervous of Preston’s commitment issues, but gradually over time opens up to him about her past, and her feelings for him.
”I can’t promise anything. I have nothing in me to promise, but that doesn't mean I won’t try.”
I liked Olivia, I liked Preston and I liked Kara, I also liked the storyline, but I didn’t love it or really feel any connection between any of them. Once Preston started to reveal snippets of his past, and his reasoning behind his commitment issues, I put the who/how and why together pretty quickly. There is huge potential in this story, and there were gems of brilliance at points, just not enough development in the important areas to make it really sparkle.
”I am anything but typical.” ... “And I am willing to show you just how untypical I am if you’d like a test drive.”
I found a lot of the dialogue and the progression of the relationship a little stilted, Preston and Olivia needed more development, in particular the points of the story when their emotions were in play, the sex, the talking and the plot reveals all felt incomplete. Kind of like an unmade bed, if the sheets, pillows and comforter had been added the story would have been a total winner for me.
I would certainly read more work by Melissa West, I am not sure that I would continue with this particular series though. Book 2 – Miles from Kara, is due out December 2014.
ARC provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
May 26, 2014
4.5 stars
This book is a perfect example of why I continue to come back to the New Adult genre. It has complex characters and a story that wouldn't allow me to put the book down until I finished. Preston is extra swoony...which everyone should know I love.
I loved everything about this story and absolutely look forward to the next book in the series. Definitely check this one out when you get a chance!
Full review to come closer to release date - for now I leave you with this because it pretty much captures my afternoon activity after starting this book.
Review Updated May 2014
Pieces of Olivia by Melissa West is the first of the Charleston Haven New Adult series and I have to let you all know that this book is an example of why I keep coming back to the New Adult genre. This review will not have any spoilers as I don’t want to give anything away but know that there are interesting and real characters, a plot that kept me interested, and of course, plenty of swoon.
Olivia is starting college and it is clear that things aren’t exactly what she thought they would be. She isn’t at Columbia (like her parents had hoped) – instead she is at the College of Charleston and moving into the dorm. It is also clear that she is running away from something…we just don’t find out exactly what until later in the story as this is told real time and we pick up with Olivia the day she is moving into her dorm.
I liked Olivia as the main character. She is clearly struggling with something and she isn’t completely ready to move on. Despite that, she has decided to try to start completely over in a new town where no one knows about her past and the reason for the scars she has – both physical and mental. As she opens the door to her dorm room the first person she meets is Preston Riggs and boy does he make an impression.
Olivia also meets her roommate, Kara and they quickly become friends. Kara is definitely more outgoing than Olivia is and through her, Olivia begins to meet people and get out of her room and her head. She is also Preston’s best friend and knows things about him that no one else does. Olivia doesn’t take advantage of this but she definitely feels that there is something they are keeping from her at certain points of the story. I am absolutely looking forward to her story as I thought she was a solid character and based on the end of this book, I am intrigued to see what happens.
Preston is officially on the swoony boy list…no question. Despite Olivia’s initial impression of Preston, he isn’t really the playboy she assumes he is. Yes, he has issues with commitment because of something that happened in his past and he sticks to his rule around no serious relationships…until he starts to get close to Olivia. I love that he calls her “Small Town” and when they go fishing and when they are almost busted at the party and he tells her “I’ve got you”….I could definitely go on and on but I think everyone needs to experience him for themselves so I will leave you with this:
One of the things that Olivia had to agree to before her parents would let her go to school was that she would see a therapist. This agreement introduces Rose and she pushes Olivia to face the things she has been avoiding for a long time. I thought she added a layer to the story that was critical and without her; the story would have been very different.
As friendships and relationships begin to develop, the story unfolds and I enjoyed every minute of this book. West did a wonderful job of creating these complex characters and revealing their stories in a way that kept me turning the pages just to find out what was really going on. As her first story in the New Adult genre I have to congratulate her as she has created a wonderful and intense story that is exactly the reason why I continue to come back to it. If you enjoy NA, definitely check this one out when you can – I am positive you will enjoy it. I myself am absolutely looking forward to book two of this series and will pick it up as soon as I possibly can.
This book is a perfect example of why I continue to come back to the New Adult genre. It has complex characters and a story that wouldn't allow me to put the book down until I finished. Preston is extra swoony...which everyone should know I love.
I loved everything about this story and absolutely look forward to the next book in the series. Definitely check this one out when you get a chance!
Full review to come closer to release date - for now I leave you with this because it pretty much captures my afternoon activity after starting this book.
Review Updated May 2014
Pieces of Olivia by Melissa West is the first of the Charleston Haven New Adult series and I have to let you all know that this book is an example of why I keep coming back to the New Adult genre. This review will not have any spoilers as I don’t want to give anything away but know that there are interesting and real characters, a plot that kept me interested, and of course, plenty of swoon.
Olivia is starting college and it is clear that things aren’t exactly what she thought they would be. She isn’t at Columbia (like her parents had hoped) – instead she is at the College of Charleston and moving into the dorm. It is also clear that she is running away from something…we just don’t find out exactly what until later in the story as this is told real time and we pick up with Olivia the day she is moving into her dorm.
I liked Olivia as the main character. She is clearly struggling with something and she isn’t completely ready to move on. Despite that, she has decided to try to start completely over in a new town where no one knows about her past and the reason for the scars she has – both physical and mental. As she opens the door to her dorm room the first person she meets is Preston Riggs and boy does he make an impression.
Olivia also meets her roommate, Kara and they quickly become friends. Kara is definitely more outgoing than Olivia is and through her, Olivia begins to meet people and get out of her room and her head. She is also Preston’s best friend and knows things about him that no one else does. Olivia doesn’t take advantage of this but she definitely feels that there is something they are keeping from her at certain points of the story. I am absolutely looking forward to her story as I thought she was a solid character and based on the end of this book, I am intrigued to see what happens.
Preston is officially on the swoony boy list…no question. Despite Olivia’s initial impression of Preston, he isn’t really the playboy she assumes he is. Yes, he has issues with commitment because of something that happened in his past and he sticks to his rule around no serious relationships…until he starts to get close to Olivia. I love that he calls her “Small Town” and when they go fishing and when they are almost busted at the party and he tells her “I’ve got you”….I could definitely go on and on but I think everyone needs to experience him for themselves so I will leave you with this:
One of the things that Olivia had to agree to before her parents would let her go to school was that she would see a therapist. This agreement introduces Rose and she pushes Olivia to face the things she has been avoiding for a long time. I thought she added a layer to the story that was critical and without her; the story would have been very different.
As friendships and relationships begin to develop, the story unfolds and I enjoyed every minute of this book. West did a wonderful job of creating these complex characters and revealing their stories in a way that kept me turning the pages just to find out what was really going on. As her first story in the New Adult genre I have to congratulate her as she has created a wonderful and intense story that is exactly the reason why I continue to come back to it. If you enjoy NA, definitely check this one out when you can – I am positive you will enjoy it. I myself am absolutely looking forward to book two of this series and will pick it up as soon as I possibly can.
January 9, 2018
Me encantó la historia de Olivia y Preston!
Aunque debo confesar que el dramita que armó Olive cuando descubrió el gran secreto que le ocultaban, me pareció forzado y exagerado. Sin embargo, comprendo que sus traumas y sentimientos de culpa contribuyeron a empeorar la situación.
Perooo... a pesar de ello es una historia ligera, fácil de leer... divertida!
Confieso que dos capítulos me conmovieron en exceso... sobre todo cuando Olivia habló con la mamá de Trisha... la autora logró transmitir los sentimientos... te llegaba!
Recomendada!!
Aunque debo confesar que el dramita que armó Olive cuando descubrió el gran secreto que le ocultaban, me pareció forzado y exagerado. Sin embargo, comprendo que sus traumas y sentimientos de culpa contribuyeron a empeorar la situación.
Perooo... a pesar de ello es una historia ligera, fácil de leer... divertida!
Confieso que dos capítulos me conmovieron en exceso... sobre todo cuando Olivia habló con la mamá de Trisha... la autora logró transmitir los sentimientos... te llegaba!
Recomendada!!
March 19, 2014
PIECES OF OLIVIA is a story full of heart. We meet Olivia, a college student dealing with a load of grief and guilt, and I began rooting for her right away to find a way to cope.
I love how Ms. West dealt with the benefit of therapy and the therapist was a really cool, quirky character.
And Preston, the hero, is a guy that had me swooning. I loved the banter between Olivia and Preston and I loved both of their growth by the end of the book. To me, that's the heart of New Adult, about finding who we when not under our parents' roof and Ms. West really hit that out of the ballpark.
It's a wonderful new adult read, and I CANNOT wait for Kara's story. :)
I love how Ms. West dealt with the benefit of therapy and the therapist was a really cool, quirky character.
And Preston, the hero, is a guy that had me swooning. I loved the banter between Olivia and Preston and I loved both of their growth by the end of the book. To me, that's the heart of New Adult, about finding who we when not under our parents' roof and Ms. West really hit that out of the ballpark.
It's a wonderful new adult read, and I CANNOT wait for Kara's story. :)
October 22, 2014
Este libro me sorprendio muy gratamente, al principio pense que seria una historia mas del monton, chica con pasado tragico que va a la universidad y se enamora, pero no es asi, es mucho mas que una simple historia.
La autora hace un trabajo maravilloso narrando la historia con unos temas muy serios como lo son : la perdida de un ser querido, la depresion o incluso el suicidio, me encanto que segun iba pasando la historia me descubri cada vez mas enganchada al libro y deseando leer un capitulo tras otro.
Como en todas las historias hay un GRAN pero y aunque sospeche desde el principio que era lo que ocultaba Preston, el protagonista masculino cuando llegue a esa parte de la lectura me senti un poco decepcionada, no por el secreto en si ( puesto que ya lo imaginaba ) sino por la direccion que eligio seguir la autora.
La historia es maravillosa y mientras leia ya tenia decidido que puntuacion le daria, pero cerca del final hubieron detalles que no me gustaron nada, por lo que le baje la puntuacion, me parecio muy injusto que en el final la autora le " echara " la culpa a Olivia por reacionar de una forma que a mi modo de ver fue totalmente comprensible, ademas senti que el final no estuvo a la altura de todo el libro y me molesto que la autora utilizara el duelo de Olivia como justificacion a su forma de reaccionar cuando descubre la " traicion " de Preston y Kara.
3.5 Estrellas!!
June 17, 2014
I think for the first time in a long time I did not want the heroine and hero to end up together. It was not that I did not feel their connection, I did. Just the omission of information bothered me and days after reading this, it still bothers me. I wish I could say more without giving anything away. I liked this story a lot from the beginning and then I felt it failed on me. I questioned “why did it have to go there?” I just wanted it to be a sweet romance and it was but there are certain things that I know did not have to be added.
Did I like Preston? Yes.
Did I like Olivia? Yes
Did I like the story? Yes and then it went somewhere I did not like.
I wish I could say more. The writing was not the problem for me in this book. The story started very quickly. Nothing dragged. The characters meet in the beginning and developed a friendship. They both have a strong attraction to one another that they cannot deny. However, Olivia did not come to college to start relationship. She has scars that have made it hard for her to get through. The premise was one I love. However, I could not get past the one thing.
I think everyone will have a different opinion about this story.
A copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Did I like Preston? Yes.
Did I like Olivia? Yes
Did I like the story? Yes and then it went somewhere I did not like.
I wish I could say more. The writing was not the problem for me in this book. The story started very quickly. Nothing dragged. The characters meet in the beginning and developed a friendship. They both have a strong attraction to one another that they cannot deny. However, Olivia did not come to college to start relationship. She has scars that have made it hard for her to get through. The premise was one I love. However, I could not get past the one thing.
I think everyone will have a different opinion about this story.
A copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
June 7, 2014 Upcoming standalone New Adult romance!
Olivia Warren used to be a normal girl with a bright future.
But on one fated night, everything changed.
Hiding the scars of her past up her sleeves, Olivia transfers her enrollment from Columbia University to The College of Charleston, determined to pursue her own dreams for the first time in her life.
She intends to allow herself a bit of alone time to heal... that is, until she meets Preston.
Preston is best friends with her roommate, completely hot, and off-limits. But the chemistry between them is instantaneous—and as the pair begins to spend more time with one another, their feelings for each other build into something undeniable, something powerful enough to heal Olivia’s deepest scars.
Olivia tries to put her own past behind her and trust Preston, but she discovers that his past might be more present than she ever bargained for…
Olivia Warren used to be a normal girl with a bright future.
But on one fated night, everything changed.
Hiding the scars of her past up her sleeves, Olivia transfers her enrollment from Columbia University to The College of Charleston, determined to pursue her own dreams for the first time in her life.
She intends to allow herself a bit of alone time to heal... that is, until she meets Preston.
Preston is best friends with her roommate, completely hot, and off-limits. But the chemistry between them is instantaneous—and as the pair begins to spend more time with one another, their feelings for each other build into something undeniable, something powerful enough to heal Olivia’s deepest scars.
Olivia tries to put her own past behind her and trust Preston, but she discovers that his past might be more present than she ever bargained for…
April 2, 2014
This book kept me completely enthralled.
From Olivia's past peeled away in heartbreaking layers, the cast of quirky characters (loved the role of her unconventional therapist), to the delicious and raw tension between Olivia and Preston that had my stomach swooping throughout the entire read!!!
The writing was so lovely and the ending completely satisfying. Cannot wait for the next installment from this author.
From Olivia's past peeled away in heartbreaking layers, the cast of quirky characters (loved the role of her unconventional therapist), to the delicious and raw tension between Olivia and Preston that had my stomach swooping throughout the entire read!!!
The writing was so lovely and the ending completely satisfying. Cannot wait for the next installment from this author.
March 14, 2014
Intense, emotional, and endearing, PIECES OF OLIVIA transported me back to college. With a heroine equal parts flawed and delightfully witty, this book had me captivated from page one. I cheered for her healing, rooted for her romance, and rode the roller coaster of emotion as Olivia fought her demons and won. Preston, a book boyfriend sure to steal everyone's hearts, gave me delicious butterflies, and Olivia challenged me to think. To Feel. And to believe in second chances. Gorgeous!
February 23, 2017
Me quedé en el capítulo 15 y ya no quiero seguir leyendo, otro NA que va de la misma cosa, chica conoce chico, cualquiera de los dos tiene un pasado feo, están juntos y después no pueden estar juntos por eso, luego vuelven y "viven felices por siempre". Bye. Tal vez en un futuro terminé el libro, por el momento tengo muchos libros que leer y más interesantes.
Ñeee, nada nuevo.
November 26, 2022
Scrolling through my kindle, I was in the mood to read something edgier and I came across Pieces of Olivia, a book that has been sitting on my kindle waiting patiently to be read for years. Olivia is starting university at Charleston instead of Columbia like she had planned for years and her parents expected her to. She had the plan to study law, but now is studying English. Her life all changed when in her high school summer before college, she was with friends partying and there was an accident. She survived, but her friends weren't so lucky. Now Olivia is trying to move on with her life, but suffering from survivor's guilt. When Olivia gets to college, she meets her roommate Kara and the two of them connect straightaway. Of course, with Kara comes Preston Riggs - Kara's best friend who has some baggage of his own. Not Olivia level, but enough to make him not want to date anyone seriously and change his major to Medicine. Will Preston help Olivia open up with Kara's help and her new therapist Rose who I loved helping her to learn to live life again and not be ashamed of her scars? Pieces of Olivia had some trigger moments and ups and downs, but I really liked it and I am not looking forward to reading Kara's story which is Book #2, and hoping it doesn't involve cheating as looks like a love triangle might be involved and one that goes a step further into possible cheating territory unlike the one in this book between Olivia, Taylor, and Preston.
July 20, 2014
More Reviews Here: Readers Live A Thousand Lives
First things first- Preston is mine. I am not willing to share. Now that we have that out of the way I can gush review Pieces of Olivia properly. This book was so so good. It is everything that is good about the new adult genre. I’m not going to lie; I was full of feels when I finished this one.
Olivia shattered my heart. I loved this girl and I wanted to reach inside the book and hug her. I cannot even fathom living with what she is living with. I give her all the credit in the world for recognizing that she needs to move past it and actually taking the steps to do so. She is a fighter and I enjoyed watching her open up bit by bit. I also just liked her. She was very funny and witty and I just felt like we would have been good friends.
Now for Preston. In case you missed it above, I kinda loved Preston and by kinda I mean I fell madly head over heels my gosh everything you say is wonderful in love. That boy is like a walking swoon. I cannot even begin to tell you the amount of times I melted over the words that came out of his mouth. Preston has his fair share of insecurities and is hesitant for a relationship but there is something about Olivia. What I liked most about Preston is that once he decides Olivia is what he wants and is worth the risk that’s it. He doesn’t second guess it and he goes for it. He is also so incredibly patient and supportive of Olivia. He doesn’t push or pry. He recognizes that she has some stuff to work through and rather than trying to fix her he is simply there to support her. Gosh I could go on about him all damn day.
Now I have to talk about Rose. Rose was awesome and I loved her so much. She was so quirky and great. She was exactly what Olivia needed and was the perfect person to help her finally move on from the trauma in her past.
Pieces of Olivia is an example of new adult done right. It reminded me of the new adult books I read back when the genre was very very new. It was about Olivia moving out on her own and growing and moving on from her past. Yes there is a romance and yes the tension is hot BUT the story is so much more than that. Preston doesn’t magically show up and fix Olivia with his sexy times. Olivia fixes herself and Preston is there to help her along the way. Olivia is able to finally open up and let Preston in because she is finally getting to a better place. Gosh I just loved them together.
This book had my heart in my throat. We got to the point where things were happy and I just knew that something was going to come along and ruin that. There was a moment where I figured out what it was and I just sat there waiting for everything to come crashing down and my gosh it hurt me so much. I was so heartbroken and I wanted everything fixed ASAP. I hated seeing these characters I had come to love torn apart. Like I said before: so many feels.
Pieces of Olivia is a great new adult read. One I highly recommend to fans of the genre and to those who feel like they are getting burnt out on it. It’s such a good read with a really good story and characters that get under your skin. And as a final word: Preston is mine.
First things first- Preston is mine. I am not willing to share. Now that we have that out of the way I can gush review Pieces of Olivia properly. This book was so so good. It is everything that is good about the new adult genre. I’m not going to lie; I was full of feels when I finished this one.
Olivia shattered my heart. I loved this girl and I wanted to reach inside the book and hug her. I cannot even fathom living with what she is living with. I give her all the credit in the world for recognizing that she needs to move past it and actually taking the steps to do so. She is a fighter and I enjoyed watching her open up bit by bit. I also just liked her. She was very funny and witty and I just felt like we would have been good friends.
Now for Preston. In case you missed it above, I kinda loved Preston and by kinda I mean I fell madly head over heels my gosh everything you say is wonderful in love. That boy is like a walking swoon. I cannot even begin to tell you the amount of times I melted over the words that came out of his mouth. Preston has his fair share of insecurities and is hesitant for a relationship but there is something about Olivia. What I liked most about Preston is that once he decides Olivia is what he wants and is worth the risk that’s it. He doesn’t second guess it and he goes for it. He is also so incredibly patient and supportive of Olivia. He doesn’t push or pry. He recognizes that she has some stuff to work through and rather than trying to fix her he is simply there to support her. Gosh I could go on about him all damn day.
Now I have to talk about Rose. Rose was awesome and I loved her so much. She was so quirky and great. She was exactly what Olivia needed and was the perfect person to help her finally move on from the trauma in her past.
Pieces of Olivia is an example of new adult done right. It reminded me of the new adult books I read back when the genre was very very new. It was about Olivia moving out on her own and growing and moving on from her past. Yes there is a romance and yes the tension is hot BUT the story is so much more than that. Preston doesn’t magically show up and fix Olivia with his sexy times. Olivia fixes herself and Preston is there to help her along the way. Olivia is able to finally open up and let Preston in because she is finally getting to a better place. Gosh I just loved them together.
This book had my heart in my throat. We got to the point where things were happy and I just knew that something was going to come along and ruin that. There was a moment where I figured out what it was and I just sat there waiting for everything to come crashing down and my gosh it hurt me so much. I was so heartbroken and I wanted everything fixed ASAP. I hated seeing these characters I had come to love torn apart. Like I said before: so many feels.
Pieces of Olivia is a great new adult read. One I highly recommend to fans of the genre and to those who feel like they are getting burnt out on it. It’s such a good read with a really good story and characters that get under your skin. And as a final word: Preston is mine.
July 10, 2014
My reaction after reading this jewel: Holy Shucks, Super Maple Fudge.
And that's an understatement. I was able to request this book off of NetGalley. And usually when I do that the books I'm granted are "eh" and so I was expecting the same with this one. THANK THE LORD I took a chance and requested this book.
As soon as I read the first few lines I was hooked. From the start, I felt every emotion and was connected to a character that I had just meet, and I knew I was in for a ride.
First off let me start with the love of my life. Preston. Oh Lord. I don't think y'all understand how much I fell in love with him. Is it crazy that I have said prayers to God asking for a guy like him? Because I have, I'm not kidding. Preston, to me, quickly hit the top spot on my book boyfriend list mainly because he fishes. Lord knows I love a man who fishes. Besides fishing, everything about him was spot on what I want in a guy and it's painful how fictional he is but how REAL he could be. Man, I never felt this jealous of a fictional character. To have a guy love you with that kind of passion and do anything and everything he can to be be there for you is what dreams are made of. It's good to know at least books take part in those dreams. Believe me when I say that from now when I'm saying my prayers I'll be asking for a Preston Riggs in my life.
Now Kara and Rose. GAH (that is a sound of endearment). As soon as I was introduced to these amazing side characters I was invested in their lives. I loved everything about them from the way Kara was scattered brain and loveable to Rose knowing what needed to be done and standing firm and being the focal point that was needed. Usually when a book is loaded with side characters, the book seems to drag focusing too much on them than the main character, but that is absolutely not the case here. They all have a pivotal point in the Olivia's life, they emphasize her character rather than taking the spotlight for themselves.
Olivia. Where to start.
Man, you're words left long lasting impressions on my heart. And they normally don't stay this long after finishing a book. You're words had meaning and deep, deep emotion. One to many times, I'd catch an escaped tear running away after reading your poems and letters. I felt everything from your wittiness (which had me bursting out loud) to your despair (which had me clutching my chest and grabbing Kleenexes). The struggles you went through and the redemption you had at the end is inspiring, and it goes to show the situations that can be conquered when we put our mind to it.
Everything about this book was mind-blowingly amazing. All the characters leech onto you (in a good way) and have their way with your heart. Pieces of Olivia goes from sorrow-filled to humor-filled to swooning and then back like crazy and you can't help but enjoy it. This is probably one of my favorite books this year. And hopefully y'all pick this book up as soon as it releases and we can talk about how dreamy Preston is and how awesome the characters are.
And that's an understatement. I was able to request this book off of NetGalley. And usually when I do that the books I'm granted are "eh" and so I was expecting the same with this one. THANK THE LORD I took a chance and requested this book.
As soon as I read the first few lines I was hooked. From the start, I felt every emotion and was connected to a character that I had just meet, and I knew I was in for a ride.
First off let me start with the love of my life. Preston. Oh Lord. I don't think y'all understand how much I fell in love with him. Is it crazy that I have said prayers to God asking for a guy like him? Because I have, I'm not kidding. Preston, to me, quickly hit the top spot on my book boyfriend list mainly because he fishes. Lord knows I love a man who fishes. Besides fishing, everything about him was spot on what I want in a guy and it's painful how fictional he is but how REAL he could be. Man, I never felt this jealous of a fictional character. To have a guy love you with that kind of passion and do anything and everything he can to be be there for you is what dreams are made of. It's good to know at least books take part in those dreams. Believe me when I say that from now when I'm saying my prayers I'll be asking for a Preston Riggs in my life.
Now Kara and Rose. GAH (that is a sound of endearment). As soon as I was introduced to these amazing side characters I was invested in their lives. I loved everything about them from the way Kara was scattered brain and loveable to Rose knowing what needed to be done and standing firm and being the focal point that was needed. Usually when a book is loaded with side characters, the book seems to drag focusing too much on them than the main character, but that is absolutely not the case here. They all have a pivotal point in the Olivia's life, they emphasize her character rather than taking the spotlight for themselves.
Olivia. Where to start.
Man, you're words left long lasting impressions on my heart. And they normally don't stay this long after finishing a book. You're words had meaning and deep, deep emotion. One to many times, I'd catch an escaped tear running away after reading your poems and letters. I felt everything from your wittiness (which had me bursting out loud) to your despair (which had me clutching my chest and grabbing Kleenexes). The struggles you went through and the redemption you had at the end is inspiring, and it goes to show the situations that can be conquered when we put our mind to it.
Everything about this book was mind-blowingly amazing. All the characters leech onto you (in a good way) and have their way with your heart. Pieces of Olivia goes from sorrow-filled to humor-filled to swooning and then back like crazy and you can't help but enjoy it. This is probably one of my favorite books this year. And hopefully y'all pick this book up as soon as it releases and we can talk about how dreamy Preston is and how awesome the characters are.
July 19, 2014
A lot of New Adult books follow a pattern, the same pattern. But those years right after high school and into adulthood do not follow the same patter for everyone. Indeed, common patterns are the exception rather than the rule these days. So it's nice to find one that breaks the New Adult mode in a really powerful way like Pieces of Olivia does.
This story is about a girl who has faced a devastating lose. She's not living but surviving. Everyone is worrying about her. She's pushing away from things that have been planned for years. Looking for a different path, one that could actually be more difficult for her recovery. But she meets some people that change that. A great roommate, a guy that she's drawn to and a quirky therapist. She finds her life again.
Preston. What an incredible guy. A player but not a player. He's protecting his heart and with good reasons. He's accepting and comforting. He gets that things are hard. Patient and forgiving, he falls hard for Olivia. I fell hard for him.
Kara. That girl talks a lot. Her best friend is Preston but he is quickly joined by Olivia. She's trying to figure out her life and it's not as clear and it may seem.
Rose. What a character this women is. Forceful and daring, she pushes Olivia to face her pain and to let it go. Love her and her ghost talking ways.
Can you see from the list of characters that this book is different. These people are woven together to create the perfect storm that helps Olivia put the pieces of her life back together. No one of them could have accomplished what they did as a whole. It wasn't the perfect love between Preston and Olivia. It wasn't just the great new friendship that Olivia desperately needed. It wasn't just the quirky therapist and her chain smoking. It was all of them together. Because that's real. It takes more than finding love again to heal. It takes support to heal. It takes Olivia being ready. It takes Olivia being brave. It takes all of them working together to create this story and I loved it.
One of the best books I've read this year, Pieces of Olivia should not be missed.
This story is about a girl who has faced a devastating lose. She's not living but surviving. Everyone is worrying about her. She's pushing away from things that have been planned for years. Looking for a different path, one that could actually be more difficult for her recovery. But she meets some people that change that. A great roommate, a guy that she's drawn to and a quirky therapist. She finds her life again.
Preston. What an incredible guy. A player but not a player. He's protecting his heart and with good reasons. He's accepting and comforting. He gets that things are hard. Patient and forgiving, he falls hard for Olivia. I fell hard for him.
Kara. That girl talks a lot. Her best friend is Preston but he is quickly joined by Olivia. She's trying to figure out her life and it's not as clear and it may seem.
Rose. What a character this women is. Forceful and daring, she pushes Olivia to face her pain and to let it go. Love her and her ghost talking ways.
Can you see from the list of characters that this book is different. These people are woven together to create the perfect storm that helps Olivia put the pieces of her life back together. No one of them could have accomplished what they did as a whole. It wasn't the perfect love between Preston and Olivia. It wasn't just the great new friendship that Olivia desperately needed. It wasn't just the quirky therapist and her chain smoking. It was all of them together. Because that's real. It takes more than finding love again to heal. It takes support to heal. It takes Olivia being ready. It takes Olivia being brave. It takes all of them working together to create this story and I loved it.
One of the best books I've read this year, Pieces of Olivia should not be missed.
December 5, 2015
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars
Pieces of Olivia is refreshing, emotional and captivating! Pieces of Olivia follows the story of Olivia Warren. She led a normal life and had an amazing and bright future until one night. That one night forever changed her. Now, she's not only hiding the scars on her body, but also the emotional ones...Then she meets Preston, her roommates best friend. The chemistry between the two of them is undeniable and with every moment that they spend together, their feelings grow. Will Olivia be strong enough to show Preston her scars?? And will Preston ever trust Olivia with the secret that he keeps inside??
Pieces of Olivia deals with some pretty tough subject matter and Melissa West handled it beautifully. I loved how she dealt with the aspect of therapy and how you could really see Olivia start to heal and become whole again. Olivia was so easy to relate to. My heart went out to her. I just wanted to see her get better and be happy. She endured so much and by the end of the book, had grown so much...Preston, what can I say about him. He was definitely swoon worthy. He had a secret of his own and didn't want to let any girl get close to him until her met Olivia. And I am so glad she took a chance on him. They had such a wonderful, slow building relationship.
Pieces of Olivia is so well written. You will get lost in the pages and captivated with the characters. This book will take you on an emotional ride and I loved every minute of it. This is the first book that I've read by Melissa West and I can definitely say she has made a fan out of me!
*****I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*****
Pieces of Olivia is refreshing, emotional and captivating! Pieces of Olivia follows the story of Olivia Warren. She led a normal life and had an amazing and bright future until one night. That one night forever changed her. Now, she's not only hiding the scars on her body, but also the emotional ones...Then she meets Preston, her roommates best friend. The chemistry between the two of them is undeniable and with every moment that they spend together, their feelings grow. Will Olivia be strong enough to show Preston her scars?? And will Preston ever trust Olivia with the secret that he keeps inside??
Pieces of Olivia deals with some pretty tough subject matter and Melissa West handled it beautifully. I loved how she dealt with the aspect of therapy and how you could really see Olivia start to heal and become whole again. Olivia was so easy to relate to. My heart went out to her. I just wanted to see her get better and be happy. She endured so much and by the end of the book, had grown so much...Preston, what can I say about him. He was definitely swoon worthy. He had a secret of his own and didn't want to let any girl get close to him until her met Olivia. And I am so glad she took a chance on him. They had such a wonderful, slow building relationship.
Pieces of Olivia is so well written. You will get lost in the pages and captivated with the characters. This book will take you on an emotional ride and I loved every minute of it. This is the first book that I've read by Melissa West and I can definitely say she has made a fan out of me!
*****I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*****
June 24, 2014
****4.5 Stars****
Wow what a beautiful story.
Olivia is a broken girl running from her past while trying to deal with the guilt, fear and loneliness. She is starting fresh in a new place, with a new roommate and a new attitude.
Preston is a carefree, loving, loyal friend and a no strings attached kind of guy. He is taken by Olivia and her no nonsense attitude. She is not falling all over Preston like other girls.
Kara is Olivia’s new roommate with her own secrets. She is the bubbly, happy go lucky type of girl. The opposite of Olivia. Together they are the perfect pair.
Rose is they crazy, loving, pushy and ever loving therapist.
I loved this story. The trials and tribulations that Olivia goes through are heartbreaking and beautifully written. I loved all the characters and their parts in the story, which make the story complete.
Wow what a beautiful story.
Olivia is a broken girl running from her past while trying to deal with the guilt, fear and loneliness. She is starting fresh in a new place, with a new roommate and a new attitude.
Preston is a carefree, loving, loyal friend and a no strings attached kind of guy. He is taken by Olivia and her no nonsense attitude. She is not falling all over Preston like other girls.
Kara is Olivia’s new roommate with her own secrets. She is the bubbly, happy go lucky type of girl. The opposite of Olivia. Together they are the perfect pair.
Rose is they crazy, loving, pushy and ever loving therapist.
I loved this story. The trials and tribulations that Olivia goes through are heartbreaking and beautifully written. I loved all the characters and their parts in the story, which make the story complete.
August 20, 2016
I devoured this book in a single sitting, meaning I'm probably going to be awfully cranky in my morning meeting seeing that it is now currently 1:30am. But I couldn't put it down. Melissa West did an amazing job creating four awesome main characters. She did a great job of depicting PTSD and survivor's guilt; and for once I actually enjoyed a fictional therapist. I loved the gradually progression of Olivia and Preston's journey. I can't even count all the emotions this book evoked, but I can tell you that in at least two different chapters I cried. Looking forward to Kara's story.
March 15, 2014
A beautiful book about dealing with the past, learning to let go, figuring out who you are, and finding love in both friendships and romantic relationships. The characters were real, and people I'd want to be friends with. I loved discovering every single piece of Pieces of Olivia.
October 5, 2014
If I have ever said in a review I would never be able to get over a certain book/overcome a book hangover/love another book again after that certain one — scratch that all. Because after finishing Pieces of Olivia I realized that all those words are all so untrue. I have NEVER been as stoked as I am now because Melissa West has created such a captivating story and I seriously cannot think of another NA book that has torn me so emotionally apart the way Pieces of Olivia has. This book is just freaking. Amazing!!!
Pieces of Olivia starts off – excuse me – pretty mundane. Girl with a dark past (aka Olivia) goes to college to start over again, girl meets boy who happens to have a lot of charisma, girl finds a new best friend in her roomie, girl’s relationship to her parents is all tensed up blah blah. Luckily, this impression lasted for only 5 pages maybe because there are so many unique things about the books that make it outstanding in the NA genre!
I really really adored the book’s MC, Olivia. As you might have figured out from the title of the book, she is not the humdrum kind of person but a character with so many “facets” (as German people would say). I was magnetized by her own story, magically drawn to following her on her journey to finding herself. It would be almost an understatement to say I was intrigued to find out more about her “pieces”: Why is she such a broken character? What happened to her in that one ominous night?
Here’s the thing that makes the story awesome: Olivia is real. She is insecure and hurt, drowning in the past which embraces her like a bubble of guilt and loneliness. Yet, she is never that compassion-seeking kind of girl; instead, she often surprised me with her refreshing wittiness and smartness. Ultimately, I could really empathize with her different stages of grief and she is – by far - one of my favorite NA heroines.
Also, the chemistry between her and Preston is just undeniable! He really gets under her skin with his carefree and easygoing attitude. But again, he is not a flawless person, either, but enigmatic and – in a way – broken character, too. Also, he often really surprised me with his honesty and understanding way:
It’s hard to trust someone when you’ve been burned before, ya know? I prefer to stay in control, ahead of it. Less damage that way. (Kindle position 918)
Life. We move through it, we plan, we try. But at the end of the day, like the weather, it’s all just a guess. We can’t stnad inside all day, afraid of the rain. We have to live. (Kindle position 931)
His loving and loyal friend nature was just so adorable; it was so refreshing how both he and Olivia try to keep up their “no strings attached” policy. He is fascinated by Olivia and her no nonsense attitude and eventually even makes her finding faith in not only other people but also herself again. But there is so much more about his considerateness. He just embodied the perfect mix of airiness and depth — no wonder Olivia falls head over heels in love with him.
Another enjoyable aspect in the book I really did not see coming was Olivia’s therapy sessions. Rose, her psychologist is actually a person who really gets her without fulfilling that typical (hypocritical) therapist stereo type. It was so heartwarming to see there friendship growing since they clearly care deeply for each other.
Also, Olivia’s friendship with her roommate, Kara, was just so sweet and adorable and you just can see how they can always rely and count on each other. Kara is more of that outgoing type of person and through her, Olivia slowly starts to open up to other people. I really liked the fact that Olivia doesn’t take advantage of her (since Kara happens to be Preston’s best friend) but she can feel that there is some kind of secret they are withholding from her. And that certain something was just wow wow wow.
There were so many passages I just had to highlight while reading the book due to their memorable-ness. It was soft and poetic when it needed to be, yet blunt and straightforward when the moment required. Melissa West perfectly captures Olivia’s feelings in her book: Sadness, grief, but never without that streak of hope and even happiness. The book is heart-wrenching in showing how she finally finds the strength to trust other people again without being always cautious to get hurt. I loved that this book went back and forth between the past and the present. I loved we got glimpses of things that happened to Olivia before, how happy she used to be and eventually finds that piece of happiness again.
I am not quite sure what I was expecting from the book but definitely such an emotionally enthralling, heart-touching and deeply moving read. I was an emotional wreck after finishing the book and I’m still so stoked by the story. The book just showed me once again why I love to come back to the NA genre. Pieces of Olivia ended so beautifully, in fact the last chapter was probably one of the best endings I’ve ever read. It left me with both joy for what is and sorrow for what was. This book oozes with emotion that I can’t stop myself from crying. It tugs at my heart and it didn’t let go until I read the whole story. If you want to be floored by a book and become so involved in the story that the outside world melts away; read Pieces of Olivia. It is one emotional disaster and I loved it with all of my broken heart. So read it.
Pieces of Olivia starts off – excuse me – pretty mundane. Girl with a dark past (aka Olivia) goes to college to start over again, girl meets boy who happens to have a lot of charisma, girl finds a new best friend in her roomie, girl’s relationship to her parents is all tensed up blah blah. Luckily, this impression lasted for only 5 pages maybe because there are so many unique things about the books that make it outstanding in the NA genre!
I really really adored the book’s MC, Olivia. As you might have figured out from the title of the book, she is not the humdrum kind of person but a character with so many “facets” (as German people would say). I was magnetized by her own story, magically drawn to following her on her journey to finding herself. It would be almost an understatement to say I was intrigued to find out more about her “pieces”: Why is she such a broken character? What happened to her in that one ominous night?
Here’s the thing that makes the story awesome: Olivia is real. She is insecure and hurt, drowning in the past which embraces her like a bubble of guilt and loneliness. Yet, she is never that compassion-seeking kind of girl; instead, she often surprised me with her refreshing wittiness and smartness. Ultimately, I could really empathize with her different stages of grief and she is – by far - one of my favorite NA heroines.
Also, the chemistry between her and Preston is just undeniable! He really gets under her skin with his carefree and easygoing attitude. But again, he is not a flawless person, either, but enigmatic and – in a way – broken character, too. Also, he often really surprised me with his honesty and understanding way:
It’s hard to trust someone when you’ve been burned before, ya know? I prefer to stay in control, ahead of it. Less damage that way. (Kindle position 918)
Life. We move through it, we plan, we try. But at the end of the day, like the weather, it’s all just a guess. We can’t stnad inside all day, afraid of the rain. We have to live. (Kindle position 931)
His loving and loyal friend nature was just so adorable; it was so refreshing how both he and Olivia try to keep up their “no strings attached” policy. He is fascinated by Olivia and her no nonsense attitude and eventually even makes her finding faith in not only other people but also herself again. But there is so much more about his considerateness. He just embodied the perfect mix of airiness and depth — no wonder Olivia falls head over heels in love with him.
Another enjoyable aspect in the book I really did not see coming was Olivia’s therapy sessions. Rose, her psychologist is actually a person who really gets her without fulfilling that typical (hypocritical) therapist stereo type. It was so heartwarming to see there friendship growing since they clearly care deeply for each other.
Also, Olivia’s friendship with her roommate, Kara, was just so sweet and adorable and you just can see how they can always rely and count on each other. Kara is more of that outgoing type of person and through her, Olivia slowly starts to open up to other people. I really liked the fact that Olivia doesn’t take advantage of her (since Kara happens to be Preston’s best friend) but she can feel that there is some kind of secret they are withholding from her. And that certain something was just wow wow wow.
There were so many passages I just had to highlight while reading the book due to their memorable-ness. It was soft and poetic when it needed to be, yet blunt and straightforward when the moment required. Melissa West perfectly captures Olivia’s feelings in her book: Sadness, grief, but never without that streak of hope and even happiness. The book is heart-wrenching in showing how she finally finds the strength to trust other people again without being always cautious to get hurt. I loved that this book went back and forth between the past and the present. I loved we got glimpses of things that happened to Olivia before, how happy she used to be and eventually finds that piece of happiness again.
I am not quite sure what I was expecting from the book but definitely such an emotionally enthralling, heart-touching and deeply moving read. I was an emotional wreck after finishing the book and I’m still so stoked by the story. The book just showed me once again why I love to come back to the NA genre. Pieces of Olivia ended so beautifully, in fact the last chapter was probably one of the best endings I’ve ever read. It left me with both joy for what is and sorrow for what was. This book oozes with emotion that I can’t stop myself from crying. It tugs at my heart and it didn’t let go until I read the whole story. If you want to be floored by a book and become so involved in the story that the outside world melts away; read Pieces of Olivia. It is one emotional disaster and I loved it with all of my broken heart. So read it.
July 15, 2014
Wow. My emotions are all over the place from reading this one. My heart just ached for these characters and what they have gone through. That's all I can say to avoid being spoilery.
But before I go? That sexual tension? Hoo, boy. The build up alone nearly killed me!
Full Review:
Being a huge fan of Melissa's YA sci-fi series, I was PSYCHED to see that she was writing New Adult Contemporary! I already knew I loved her writing and good Lord above the woman knows how to bring the swoon. While this is a very emotional story and has some very heartwrenching content, she manages to give you all the feels with some serious sexual tension between the main characters. I feel it was necessary to have a slower building relationship, especially considering what these two characters have been through.
Olivia is scarred both physically and emotionally from an event that happened in her past. She heads to school in Charleston despite her parents wishes, as she desperately needs a new start. However, because of Olivia's inability to let go of the past, she is not healing in the way she needs to and will not unless she seeks some help. She finds that in her new relationships with Kara, Preston, and Rose. All of these individuals help Olivia work towards healing, even though they are unaware of what happened to her. Ultimately, it is Olivia who has to make the decision to really start LIVING again.
Olivia's roommate, Kara, is very welcoming of her, which is just what Olivia needs. It is through Kara that she meets Preston, who she is best friends with. There's definitely more to Kara and Preston than meets the eye and you could feel they had some underlying tension between them. We do find out they are keeping some things from Olivia, which bothered me a bit because I felt they both should have been honest with her from the beginning. Kara, while more outgoing, definitely has her own emotional scars and I'm really looking forward to reading her book next. I think her story will also be an emotional one.
Preston doesn't do relationships because of something that happened in his past. He likes to tease and flirt with Olivia, but he ends up really liking her and actually wants to try for more. As attracted to Preston as Olivia is, I'm glad she makes it clear that she's not the kind of girl to do casual. I did feel there were some inconsistencies with Preston's character though. He is incredibly supportive of Olivia, but there were a few of his reactions that didn't quite fit with his character. When he sees her scars, he doesn't address them, but instead keeps his distance. Preston is not the type to shy away from such things- he doesn't pressure her to tell him what happened to her, but I was surprised that he stayed away from her after that, instead of offering his silent support, knowing she would open up to him when he was ready. Don't get me wrong- he DOES show acceptance of her and offers her strength when she is feeling vulnerable, and I love that he doesn't give up on her either. There's one scene that literally had me jumping up and down because my heart was so full and I was SO glad Preston was involved.
Rose is another great character. I like that she takes the tough love approach on Olivia. She flat out refuses to help her unless she helps herself first and I thought that was SO critical to Olivia's healing! She makes her realize that until she faces her demons and the past, she won't be able to move forward and live the life she wants.
As I said, Melissa knows how to bring the swoon and create some really sexy scenes. I loved the tension between Preston and Olivia and feeling the whole 'I want this, but I can't do this' angst. It works and it isn't just inserted into the story for no reason. I understand why Preston doesn't do relationships and it makes complete sense. He just needed to find the right person to show him that love is worth having and that he deserves to be happy. I am also grateful that Melissa doesn't overdo their sexual relationship. New Adult should be about discovery and growth and I feel a lot of them are going overboard with the sex scenes. I do feel Preston and Olivia's was a bit abrupt and kind of rushed, and I personally would have liked to have just a teensy bit more buildup beforehand.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. The New Adult genre should be about being able to see a character's growth and development from their teenage years to becoming an adult. I feel like we do get to see this with Olivia and Preston, and I'm really looking forward to seeing Kara's as well.
*Received a copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
But before I go? That sexual tension? Hoo, boy. The build up alone nearly killed me!
Full Review:
Being a huge fan of Melissa's YA sci-fi series, I was PSYCHED to see that she was writing New Adult Contemporary! I already knew I loved her writing and good Lord above the woman knows how to bring the swoon. While this is a very emotional story and has some very heartwrenching content, she manages to give you all the feels with some serious sexual tension between the main characters. I feel it was necessary to have a slower building relationship, especially considering what these two characters have been through.
Olivia is scarred both physically and emotionally from an event that happened in her past. She heads to school in Charleston despite her parents wishes, as she desperately needs a new start. However, because of Olivia's inability to let go of the past, she is not healing in the way she needs to and will not unless she seeks some help. She finds that in her new relationships with Kara, Preston, and Rose. All of these individuals help Olivia work towards healing, even though they are unaware of what happened to her. Ultimately, it is Olivia who has to make the decision to really start LIVING again.
Olivia's roommate, Kara, is very welcoming of her, which is just what Olivia needs. It is through Kara that she meets Preston, who she is best friends with. There's definitely more to Kara and Preston than meets the eye and you could feel they had some underlying tension between them. We do find out they are keeping some things from Olivia, which bothered me a bit because I felt they both should have been honest with her from the beginning. Kara, while more outgoing, definitely has her own emotional scars and I'm really looking forward to reading her book next. I think her story will also be an emotional one.
Preston doesn't do relationships because of something that happened in his past. He likes to tease and flirt with Olivia, but he ends up really liking her and actually wants to try for more. As attracted to Preston as Olivia is, I'm glad she makes it clear that she's not the kind of girl to do casual. I did feel there were some inconsistencies with Preston's character though. He is incredibly supportive of Olivia, but there were a few of his reactions that didn't quite fit with his character. When he sees her scars, he doesn't address them, but instead keeps his distance. Preston is not the type to shy away from such things- he doesn't pressure her to tell him what happened to her, but I was surprised that he stayed away from her after that, instead of offering his silent support, knowing she would open up to him when he was ready. Don't get me wrong- he DOES show acceptance of her and offers her strength when she is feeling vulnerable, and I love that he doesn't give up on her either. There's one scene that literally had me jumping up and down because my heart was so full and I was SO glad Preston was involved.
Rose is another great character. I like that she takes the tough love approach on Olivia. She flat out refuses to help her unless she helps herself first and I thought that was SO critical to Olivia's healing! She makes her realize that until she faces her demons and the past, she won't be able to move forward and live the life she wants.
As I said, Melissa knows how to bring the swoon and create some really sexy scenes. I loved the tension between Preston and Olivia and feeling the whole 'I want this, but I can't do this' angst. It works and it isn't just inserted into the story for no reason. I understand why Preston doesn't do relationships and it makes complete sense. He just needed to find the right person to show him that love is worth having and that he deserves to be happy. I am also grateful that Melissa doesn't overdo their sexual relationship. New Adult should be about discovery and growth and I feel a lot of them are going overboard with the sex scenes. I do feel Preston and Olivia's was a bit abrupt and kind of rushed, and I personally would have liked to have just a teensy bit more buildup beforehand.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. The New Adult genre should be about being able to see a character's growth and development from their teenage years to becoming an adult. I feel like we do get to see this with Olivia and Preston, and I'm really looking forward to seeing Kara's as well.
*Received a copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
July 24, 2014
My Thoughts:
I was very excited when I heard that Melissa West would be writing a New Adult, Contemporary Romance. I have read her Young Adult Paranormal story, Gravity, and really enjoyed it! Therefore, I came in to reading, Pieces of Olivia, with high hopes.
In this story, we get Olivia and Preston's love story told from Olivia's viewpoint. Olivia comes from a wealthy, prominent, and highly educated family. Her two older sisters went to college at Harvard and Yale. Olivia was expected to attend Columbia University when she graduated from high school. However, after experiencing a horrific tragedy, she decides to attend The College of Charleston, much to her parents dismay. Olivia instantly hits it off with her friendly and outgoing room mate, Kara, and finds herself being attracted to Kara's best friend, Preston. From the beginning of the story, we learn that Olivia is dealing with a tremendous amount of guilt and pain.
As Pieces of Olivia unfolds, so does the story of what happened to cause the scars that Olivia hides with her long sleeved shirts, the reason behind her therapy sessions with Rose, and the pain she carries with her on a daily basis. Eventually, Olivia and Kara's friendship grows. She also starts to have feelings for Preston, and he also develops feelings towards her. However, Preston is hiding a secret from Olivia, and has trouble trusting women. Olivia struggles with letting her walls down, and letting herself be happy. As these two struggle to find happiness with one another, you will be sure to be cheering them on every step of the way. I know I was!
Pieces of Olivia was a very emotional story. It was beautiful to read, and at times it hurt my heart. I could feel the depth of Olivia's pain and guilt. I didn't know how she would be able to find her way out of it, but I desperately needed her to heal. Preston was such a wonderful character. He was very patient towards Olivia, and was always there for her. I enjoyed how these two developed a strong foundation of friendship, before they became romantically involved. Rose, Olivia's therapist, was a very entertaining and wonderful character as well. She was unconventional in her approach, but I could tell she really cared about Olivia, and was great at what she did.
I liked the fact that the tragedy that took place wasn't something that has been used over and over again in books. As a matter of fact, it was unique to this story. I appreciated the authenticity of Pieces of Olivia. It felt very genuine and it really played on my emotions. I enjoyed the various twists and turns, and have decided that Ms. West can write both paranormal and contemporary, young adult, and new adult. I am looking forward to reading book two in this series, which will be Kara's story. If you enjoy New Adult, Contemporary Romance, but are looking for a fresh new story that hasn't been overdone, look no further! I give, Pieces of Olivia, by Melissa West, 4 Emotionally Charged, Authentic, Unique, and the "Healing Power of Love," Filled Stars!!!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
I was very excited when I heard that Melissa West would be writing a New Adult, Contemporary Romance. I have read her Young Adult Paranormal story, Gravity, and really enjoyed it! Therefore, I came in to reading, Pieces of Olivia, with high hopes.
In this story, we get Olivia and Preston's love story told from Olivia's viewpoint. Olivia comes from a wealthy, prominent, and highly educated family. Her two older sisters went to college at Harvard and Yale. Olivia was expected to attend Columbia University when she graduated from high school. However, after experiencing a horrific tragedy, she decides to attend The College of Charleston, much to her parents dismay. Olivia instantly hits it off with her friendly and outgoing room mate, Kara, and finds herself being attracted to Kara's best friend, Preston. From the beginning of the story, we learn that Olivia is dealing with a tremendous amount of guilt and pain.
As Pieces of Olivia unfolds, so does the story of what happened to cause the scars that Olivia hides with her long sleeved shirts, the reason behind her therapy sessions with Rose, and the pain she carries with her on a daily basis. Eventually, Olivia and Kara's friendship grows. She also starts to have feelings for Preston, and he also develops feelings towards her. However, Preston is hiding a secret from Olivia, and has trouble trusting women. Olivia struggles with letting her walls down, and letting herself be happy. As these two struggle to find happiness with one another, you will be sure to be cheering them on every step of the way. I know I was!
Pieces of Olivia was a very emotional story. It was beautiful to read, and at times it hurt my heart. I could feel the depth of Olivia's pain and guilt. I didn't know how she would be able to find her way out of it, but I desperately needed her to heal. Preston was such a wonderful character. He was very patient towards Olivia, and was always there for her. I enjoyed how these two developed a strong foundation of friendship, before they became romantically involved. Rose, Olivia's therapist, was a very entertaining and wonderful character as well. She was unconventional in her approach, but I could tell she really cared about Olivia, and was great at what she did.
I liked the fact that the tragedy that took place wasn't something that has been used over and over again in books. As a matter of fact, it was unique to this story. I appreciated the authenticity of Pieces of Olivia. It felt very genuine and it really played on my emotions. I enjoyed the various twists and turns, and have decided that Ms. West can write both paranormal and contemporary, young adult, and new adult. I am looking forward to reading book two in this series, which will be Kara's story. If you enjoy New Adult, Contemporary Romance, but are looking for a fresh new story that hasn't been overdone, look no further! I give, Pieces of Olivia, by Melissa West, 4 Emotionally Charged, Authentic, Unique, and the "Healing Power of Love," Filled Stars!!!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
July 28, 2014
This review and more can be found at The Book Bratz
I won't lie. Going into this book I was nervous. I don't read contemporary fiction much. Actually I never do. I usual need a book with a fantasy or sci-fi aspect to keep my interest. But Pieces of Olivia was different. I was hooked with in the first few chapters, and by hooked I mean: I abandoned all my responsibilities to read.
Olivia, how my heart broke for her when she would talk about the night of the party, the one where she ended up scared and broken. The end of high school the start of college is suppose to be a good time, not one filled with nightmares and lost. But when she enrolls at Charleston to restart her life she never planned on meeting Preston. Olivia's roommate, Kara's best friend.
Preston isn't the type of person so have a long lasting relationship. He has flings that last for a bit and then end. Kara gets stuck being the between girl, stuck listening to these girls complain about Preston and she hates it.
When Olivia asks why Preston doesn't do the relationship thing she receives the reply from Kara that is isn't her story to tell. When she asks Preston, he tells her the same thing: It isn't his story. So that leaves you wondering. Who story is it then?
All through out the book there was always this strange tension between Kara and Preston that I was dying to know, and then bam! You find out and your heart splits open and you look for your box of tissues. I could only imagine what ran through Olivia's head.
"I can't breathe when you're around. I can't think. I can't control my mind and forget my body. I am useless and weak and I hate this version of myself. Yet... I have never wanted anyone like I want you."
The book takes place over a couple of months, from the start of their first semester and into part of their second semester. So the romance wasn't fast, it was set overtime and I loved that. I don't like books where the Main Characters rush into a relationship head first and saying "I love you." It is just not real like that. Plus, Olivia wanted him and slowly fell for him through out the book.
I really adored Preston and Olivia's relationship. He never pushed her to tell about her past, and when you have a dark past you don't want someone pushing for you to tell it. That is just how it is. But Olivia wasn't the only one in the book with a story, and Preston's reasoning for not dating long term bought tears to my eyes.
Now Rose, I loved her. Her and Olivia's relationship wasn't one of a patient and a doctor, it was like two friends. At first when Rose was talking about ghost I thought the woman was crazy, but then as Melissa introduced her tp you began to see that she was a good thing for Olivia to have.
Now, I must wait until December of Miles of Kara by Melissa West, which as the title says is about Kara. *sighs* Melissa West also said that the cover for the second book will be even better then the first. *even bigger sigh* But I still have to wait!
RATING: ★★★★
I won't lie. Going into this book I was nervous. I don't read contemporary fiction much. Actually I never do. I usual need a book with a fantasy or sci-fi aspect to keep my interest. But Pieces of Olivia was different. I was hooked with in the first few chapters, and by hooked I mean: I abandoned all my responsibilities to read.
Olivia, how my heart broke for her when she would talk about the night of the party, the one where she ended up scared and broken. The end of high school the start of college is suppose to be a good time, not one filled with nightmares and lost. But when she enrolls at Charleston to restart her life she never planned on meeting Preston. Olivia's roommate, Kara's best friend.
Preston isn't the type of person so have a long lasting relationship. He has flings that last for a bit and then end. Kara gets stuck being the between girl, stuck listening to these girls complain about Preston and she hates it.
When Olivia asks why Preston doesn't do the relationship thing she receives the reply from Kara that is isn't her story to tell. When she asks Preston, he tells her the same thing: It isn't his story. So that leaves you wondering. Who story is it then?
All through out the book there was always this strange tension between Kara and Preston that I was dying to know, and then bam! You find out and your heart splits open and you look for your box of tissues. I could only imagine what ran through Olivia's head.
"I can't breathe when you're around. I can't think. I can't control my mind and forget my body. I am useless and weak and I hate this version of myself. Yet... I have never wanted anyone like I want you."
The book takes place over a couple of months, from the start of their first semester and into part of their second semester. So the romance wasn't fast, it was set overtime and I loved that. I don't like books where the Main Characters rush into a relationship head first and saying "I love you." It is just not real like that. Plus, Olivia wanted him and slowly fell for him through out the book.
I really adored Preston and Olivia's relationship. He never pushed her to tell about her past, and when you have a dark past you don't want someone pushing for you to tell it. That is just how it is. But Olivia wasn't the only one in the book with a story, and Preston's reasoning for not dating long term bought tears to my eyes.
Now Rose, I loved her. Her and Olivia's relationship wasn't one of a patient and a doctor, it was like two friends. At first when Rose was talking about ghost I thought the woman was crazy, but then as Melissa introduced her tp you began to see that she was a good thing for Olivia to have.
Now, I must wait until December of Miles of Kara by Melissa West, which as the title says is about Kara. *sighs* Melissa West also said that the cover for the second book will be even better then the first. *even bigger sigh* But I still have to wait!
RATING: ★★★★
June 30, 2014
This story is amazing, Olivia is a beautiful character and Preston is just so perfect.
complete review to come.
Complete Review :
Olivia is starting a new life in a new college, not Colombia like her father wants but in Charleston. She lives in a dorm with Kara her new roommate. She’s running away from her past. Her roommate best friend is Preston Riggs and the man is so hot.
Olivia is a good main character, she wants to escape her past and never think about it again, but life is hard and that’s not possible. She’s just an amazing character, I loved reading about her sessions with Rose and how she gave Olivia the kick she needed to deal with her past. I like all the moment with Preston because he’s help her without knowing it. It’s good to see her healing and learn again to love.
I love Preston, even if he has his own issues, he’s here for Olivia and he wants to know her more. He’s so kind even if he treats girls badly. When Olivia shares a little pieces of her, he accepts and don’t judge.
Kara is so fun, she’s the girl who can be your best friend without question, she have problem on her own but she’s important for the story and I like her.
Rose is absolutely awesome, she’s a great therapist and she’s a great force to Olivia, she gives good advice and she’s always here for her. She’s more a friend than a therapist and their sessions are great and sad sometimes.
I loved it! Melissa West did a great job writing this book, I couldn't help but cry with Olivia. I wanted her to be able to move on from her past. Not forget, like she was trying to do, but to move on and live her life. I couldn't put it down. I cry more than one times and seriously it’s a very great book.
I enjoyed the complexity of the characters of this book and the emotions that this book brought out. I like the way the relation between Preston and Olivia evolves, they learn to love each other.
I like the fact that Olivia doesn’t want for Kara to be exactly like Trisha, I liked the moments when Olivia remembers the evening, the moments when she remembers her friends and where she sees herself in photo.
Pieces of Olivia will leave you feeling HOPE by the end of this book and you must buy it and read it. It’s such a great book, my feelings were put in hard tests and Melissa West made a success of his blow because I like feeling feelings by reading a book.
This my first Melissa West book but now Gravity is in my TBR because she’s just an amazing author.
The next book will tell the story of Kara and I can’t wait because December is really too far.
Thanks you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy in exchange for an honest review!
complete review to come.
Complete Review :
Olivia is starting a new life in a new college, not Colombia like her father wants but in Charleston. She lives in a dorm with Kara her new roommate. She’s running away from her past. Her roommate best friend is Preston Riggs and the man is so hot.
Olivia is a good main character, she wants to escape her past and never think about it again, but life is hard and that’s not possible. She’s just an amazing character, I loved reading about her sessions with Rose and how she gave Olivia the kick she needed to deal with her past. I like all the moment with Preston because he’s help her without knowing it. It’s good to see her healing and learn again to love.
I love Preston, even if he has his own issues, he’s here for Olivia and he wants to know her more. He’s so kind even if he treats girls badly. When Olivia shares a little pieces of her, he accepts and don’t judge.
Kara is so fun, she’s the girl who can be your best friend without question, she have problem on her own but she’s important for the story and I like her.
Rose is absolutely awesome, she’s a great therapist and she’s a great force to Olivia, she gives good advice and she’s always here for her. She’s more a friend than a therapist and their sessions are great and sad sometimes.
I loved it! Melissa West did a great job writing this book, I couldn't help but cry with Olivia. I wanted her to be able to move on from her past. Not forget, like she was trying to do, but to move on and live her life. I couldn't put it down. I cry more than one times and seriously it’s a very great book.
I enjoyed the complexity of the characters of this book and the emotions that this book brought out. I like the way the relation between Preston and Olivia evolves, they learn to love each other.
I like the fact that Olivia doesn’t want for Kara to be exactly like Trisha, I liked the moments when Olivia remembers the evening, the moments when she remembers her friends and where she sees herself in photo.
Pieces of Olivia will leave you feeling HOPE by the end of this book and you must buy it and read it. It’s such a great book, my feelings were put in hard tests and Melissa West made a success of his blow because I like feeling feelings by reading a book.
This my first Melissa West book but now Gravity is in my TBR because she’s just an amazing author.
The next book will tell the story of Kara and I can’t wait because December is really too far.
Thanks you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy in exchange for an honest review!
July 26, 2014
*sigh* I definitely had a couple of good cries during this one. Grab your tissues!
UPDATE: (From the blog)
*sigh* This book was so REAL. And different. Many of you may know this about me already, but I'm a pretty big fan of MCs who are survivors. And Olivia is definitely a survivor...but not of what seems to be the standard set of 'things to survive from' that I seem to be reading over and over lately. Not that I don't still appreciate those books, but I REALLY appreciated that Olivia, and her story, were different.
This story will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. One minute I was laughing out loud, and the next, I was practically sobbing right along with Olivia. And then I was biting my nails, worrying over people's actions/reactions...and then basking in the happiness of knowing that sometimes things turn out even better than anyone could have imagined.
Oliva and Preston (OMG Preston, can I PRETTY PLEASE have one of him in my real life?!) have both had some pretty crappy things happen to them in their short lives. And they are dealing with them in VERY different ways. And those ways aren't exactly healthy...but maybe they can find a different way to help each other heal, together.
Speaking of how Olivia and Preston are dealing with the skeletons in their closets, I HAVE to make mention of the secondary characters in this book! Although Olivia's roommate, Kara, is a big secondary character, since she is Preston's best friend as well, my favorite secondary character is Olivia's therapist, Rose. She's so different in her approach to helping Olivia, and she's a real person, not just a doctor in an office. We see and hear about things going on with Rose that are personal, and have nothing to do with Olivia's "case". And both of their families still exist in this story, more than just being the names on their birth certificates, or siblings who disappear from the pages once they entered college, which is refreshing, even if I didn't always like certain members of their families. :)
I want to tell you ALL THE THINGS about this novel...but I REALLY think everyone needs to experience everything in this story the same way I did: with no expectations, except that all of the characters in this book have a past that might haunt them in the present, and that the chemistry between Olivia and Preston is HOT!
I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK IN THIS SERIES!!!! December is so far away! I'm excited to read Kara's story. But for now, YOU need to read THIS book! Go now, and 1-click!
UPDATE: (From the blog)
*sigh* This book was so REAL. And different. Many of you may know this about me already, but I'm a pretty big fan of MCs who are survivors. And Olivia is definitely a survivor...but not of what seems to be the standard set of 'things to survive from' that I seem to be reading over and over lately. Not that I don't still appreciate those books, but I REALLY appreciated that Olivia, and her story, were different.
This story will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. One minute I was laughing out loud, and the next, I was practically sobbing right along with Olivia. And then I was biting my nails, worrying over people's actions/reactions...and then basking in the happiness of knowing that sometimes things turn out even better than anyone could have imagined.
Oliva and Preston (OMG Preston, can I PRETTY PLEASE have one of him in my real life?!) have both had some pretty crappy things happen to them in their short lives. And they are dealing with them in VERY different ways. And those ways aren't exactly healthy...but maybe they can find a different way to help each other heal, together.
Speaking of how Olivia and Preston are dealing with the skeletons in their closets, I HAVE to make mention of the secondary characters in this book! Although Olivia's roommate, Kara, is a big secondary character, since she is Preston's best friend as well, my favorite secondary character is Olivia's therapist, Rose. She's so different in her approach to helping Olivia, and she's a real person, not just a doctor in an office. We see and hear about things going on with Rose that are personal, and have nothing to do with Olivia's "case". And both of their families still exist in this story, more than just being the names on their birth certificates, or siblings who disappear from the pages once they entered college, which is refreshing, even if I didn't always like certain members of their families. :)
I want to tell you ALL THE THINGS about this novel...but I REALLY think everyone needs to experience everything in this story the same way I did: with no expectations, except that all of the characters in this book have a past that might haunt them in the present, and that the chemistry between Olivia and Preston is HOT!
I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK IN THIS SERIES!!!! December is so far away! I'm excited to read Kara's story. But for now, YOU need to read THIS book! Go now, and 1-click!
July 28, 2016
"Love had that power. You could move on, you could love again, but you would never forget. The heart was too impressionable to forget."
This book was kind of ranging in the middle for me, so I guess I'll rate this 3/3.5 stars. I did enjoy this read, it's just that I found it somewhat lacking. The concept was so-so, and the story was just okay. I personally think that the plot had depth and potential, it's just that I didn't really find it special nor did it create any impact on me.
I think my main issue would have to be with the characters, and one specific conflict among them. Although their personalities were appealing in a way, I didn't really connect to them as much as I wanted to. Olivia was a good heroine, and I really liked her relationship with her therapist. Through her on and off therapy sessions, we get to see her grief and down moments with her loss. At times, I wished that I connected more with her, so that I can also kind of feel her pain or some sort, but the way she was built up was kind of lacking. I also had issues with the whole Kara-Preston relationship conflict factor.
I did appreciate that this book wasn't just about romantic love, it also tackled family ties, friendship, loss, coping mechanisms, and importance of forgiveness.
"I always thought that love was romantic. Between two people who shared a similar desire for one another. But I now know that love is simpler than that. It’s a connection, a binding that links two people. Family. Lovers. Friends."
Anyway, I guess I would still look forward to the next installment!
"We began to move, our eyes locked, our bodies linked together as one. I felt vulnerable in every way. We had yet to say those three small words, but they were there with us, swirling in the air, reminding us that we were forever bound to one another."
April 14, 2015
This was a really emotional book. Olivia is clearly still grieving over something that happened to her. She blames herself and is in a very deep depression for a lot of the book. She has PTSD from her past and the littlest thing like a movie theater or a song will revert her back in time to that horrific day. However, she finds comfort in her therapist, her new college roommate, Kara, and Kara's best friend, Preston. Over time she starts to heal little by little in the hopes of becoming whole again.
This was a great story. There was so much raw emotion that there were a couple of times where I was balling my eyes out. I don't often cry like a baby while reading, so when I do, you know the book is good. I never went through what Olivia did, nor have I been to therapy before, but living through it with Olivia definitely brought it to life for me. So many emotions, so much pain. I could understand why Olivia was the was that she was. The girl had survived something horrific.
There wasn't a whole heck of a lot going on in the story. Just a girl trying to get back to having a normal life again. Now of course there is the love interest, Preston, who is your typical "I don't want a relationship" guy. Now granted something horrible happened to him to make him become that way, but I didn't understand how only dating/sleeping with a girl for a couple of weeks really protected his past from repeating itself. Olivia I understood, but his reasoning didn't make sense to me. Nevertheless, I like the fact that it wasn't insta-love. Hell, they don't even say "I love you" until way down the road. There is angst, I will give it that, but thank goodness not the immediate love connection.
This is the second book by West that I've read and loved. She's definitely becoming an author that I will automatically read without waiting to read reviews first. I just really enjoy her writing style. It's so easy to fall into the characters and live their lives with them. They aren't just simply words printed on paper. They become alive with every word. You grieve with them, fear for them and in the end you're sad to see them go when you finish the story.
This was a great story. There was so much raw emotion that there were a couple of times where I was balling my eyes out. I don't often cry like a baby while reading, so when I do, you know the book is good. I never went through what Olivia did, nor have I been to therapy before, but living through it with Olivia definitely brought it to life for me. So many emotions, so much pain. I could understand why Olivia was the was that she was. The girl had survived something horrific.
There wasn't a whole heck of a lot going on in the story. Just a girl trying to get back to having a normal life again. Now of course there is the love interest, Preston, who is your typical "I don't want a relationship" guy. Now granted something horrible happened to him to make him become that way, but I didn't understand how only dating/sleeping with a girl for a couple of weeks really protected his past from repeating itself. Olivia I understood, but his reasoning didn't make sense to me. Nevertheless, I like the fact that it wasn't insta-love. Hell, they don't even say "I love you" until way down the road. There is angst, I will give it that, but thank goodness not the immediate love connection.
This is the second book by West that I've read and loved. She's definitely becoming an author that I will automatically read without waiting to read reviews first. I just really enjoy her writing style. It's so easy to fall into the characters and live their lives with them. They aren't just simply words printed on paper. They become alive with every word. You grieve with them, fear for them and in the end you're sad to see them go when you finish the story.
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