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The Things We Can't Change #1
The Prologue
Ezekiel Quain has learned over the years that love and family are nothing to be depended on. After standing strong next to his mom through her cancer, she ran off, leaving Zeke, his dad and little sister to struggle with the leftover medical bills, and a bad taste in Zeke’s mouth about counting on anybody. His relationship with his father is strained, and the only person he cares for is his little sister, Cindy. With looks, attitude, and words, Zeke keeps everyone at arm’s length.Evangeline Parker has it money, beauty, brains, and the perfect boyfriend, Tony. What everyone doesn’t see is that she’s trapped, and has been for two years. She lives every day in fear, hiding the fact that Tony isn’t the perfect man everyone thinks that he is. She walks a tightrope, trying to reconcile the Tony of the past with the Tony of the present, and to never, ever upset him. Terrified of anyone finding out the truth, she doesn’t get too close to anyone and has been struggling through the past two years alone.When Zeke stumbles upon Tony and Evie one night and learns of her secret, their worlds begin to collide in a way neither of them expected. Before he can stop himself, Zeke finds himself stepping uninvited into Evie’s life, and urges her to tell someone. Evie refuses, terrified of the repercussions from Tony. Not even sure why he cares, Zeke can only watch from a distance, until disaster strikes and Evie’s secret comes to light, and they are both forced to take action. ***Due to language and mature situations, this book is recommended for readers 16+**
114 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2013
25 people are currently reading
1593 people want to read
About the author
Kassandra Kush
16 books182 followersWelcome :]
Third person feels.... impersonal, so lezz just keep it real ;]
My name is Kassandra, one of the few rare gems who spell the name with a K. I like to read, write, and lay in the sun. Since I live in sunny Florida, I'm usually doing all three at once. I dream of returning to my hometown, Columbus, Ohio, but in the meantime I make do with placing most of my stories there. I come from a huge family dominated with girls and have a dopey, mostly-Black-Lab dog named Phineas. I tend to like fictional men better than real ones, and sometimes it's quite the hassle trying to keep up with all my book-relationships ;] Someday, though, I'm sure true love will strike me down, but until then, I'll share all my book boyfriends with you.
They can be found in all my novels, and I hope I speak the truth when I say I have a little something for everyone; mystery, romance, paranormal, real-life, drama and epicness. You can find information about my past, present, and forthcoming books in both my blog and Facebook links. I absolutely love to hear from readers, so be sure to drop me a line so I can thank you personally.
I'll leave you to read now, but welcome to my world; a place where true love exists, everyone gets a happy ending, magic is real, God is love, and it's perfectly acceptable to skip sleep, food, and company in order to finish that last chapter.
Oh, and the men are extremely good looking ;]
Third person feels.... impersonal, so lezz just keep it real ;]
My name is Kassandra, one of the few rare gems who spell the name with a K. I like to read, write, and lay in the sun. Since I live in sunny Florida, I'm usually doing all three at once. I dream of returning to my hometown, Columbus, Ohio, but in the meantime I make do with placing most of my stories there. I come from a huge family dominated with girls and have a dopey, mostly-Black-Lab dog named Phineas. I tend to like fictional men better than real ones, and sometimes it's quite the hassle trying to keep up with all my book-relationships ;] Someday, though, I'm sure true love will strike me down, but until then, I'll share all my book boyfriends with you.
They can be found in all my novels, and I hope I speak the truth when I say I have a little something for everyone; mystery, romance, paranormal, real-life, drama and epicness. You can find information about my past, present, and forthcoming books in both my blog and Facebook links. I absolutely love to hear from readers, so be sure to drop me a line so I can thank you personally.
I'll leave you to read now, but welcome to my world; a place where true love exists, everyone gets a happy ending, magic is real, God is love, and it's perfectly acceptable to skip sleep, food, and company in order to finish that last chapter.
Oh, and the men are extremely good looking ;]
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April 4, 2015
The Things We Can't Change
by Kassandra Kush
I have to give this book 5 stars!
In all Honesty ~ I began this book asking myself 'Why am I reading this again? I don't like reading about abuse & things that will bring me down'. Call me crazy, but when I pick up a book I prefer to travel to other worlds & realms full of magic & happy endings (for the most part anyway). Knowing this I prepared myself for the worst not sure how Kush would approach the abuse issues at hand.
I was shocked to be so drawn in to this story that I could not put it down. Not because I felt sympathy for any certain character no, no, no. Sure I understood the real life problems & issues at hand. This was one of the reasons I continued reading, because our kids (anyone we care about really) needs to have stories like this available to help them truly see what can happen in an abusive relationship as Evie is in. Not only do I appreciate the learning opportunity it provided, but I believe Kush did a terrific job bringing very real happenings to light without going too dark. She found that balance to get the point across without making me want to stop reading (winning a few shudders & tears along the way of course). BUT ... the best part is these characters! They brought out so many emotions in such a short time: I smiled, laughed, cringed, cried, loved, & I admit loathing a special someone. I wanted to know more about each of them; their lives, their pasts, their choices.
Now keep in mind this is a short story, a prologue. Do not let that fool you it absolutely packs a punch (in more ways than one)!
If I had to choose a favorite character it would definitely be Zeke! He won me over for many reasons! He's absolutely adorable in his macho tough as nails kinda way. =) The ending though...URGH!! I kept swiping the page on my ereader hoping it was frozen. There had to be more! No way could I already be finished?!? I must know what happens next!!
*Immediately after reading this I had to tell my teen about it. I could not stop. I want her to read it. I feel like all of her friends should. We need to educate them about these things, so they can prevent themselves from being stuck in such a situation (or at least get them to speak up before it's too late).
BTW...After seeing the cover reveal my teen was in love. I'll let you know what she thinks after she reads it. ;•)
by Kassandra Kush
I have to give this book 5 stars!
In all Honesty ~ I began this book asking myself 'Why am I reading this again? I don't like reading about abuse & things that will bring me down'. Call me crazy, but when I pick up a book I prefer to travel to other worlds & realms full of magic & happy endings (for the most part anyway). Knowing this I prepared myself for the worst not sure how Kush would approach the abuse issues at hand.
I was shocked to be so drawn in to this story that I could not put it down. Not because I felt sympathy for any certain character no, no, no. Sure I understood the real life problems & issues at hand. This was one of the reasons I continued reading, because our kids (anyone we care about really) needs to have stories like this available to help them truly see what can happen in an abusive relationship as Evie is in. Not only do I appreciate the learning opportunity it provided, but I believe Kush did a terrific job bringing very real happenings to light without going too dark. She found that balance to get the point across without making me want to stop reading (winning a few shudders & tears along the way of course). BUT ... the best part is these characters! They brought out so many emotions in such a short time: I smiled, laughed, cringed, cried, loved, & I admit loathing a special someone. I wanted to know more about each of them; their lives, their pasts, their choices.
Now keep in mind this is a short story, a prologue. Do not let that fool you it absolutely packs a punch (in more ways than one)!
If I had to choose a favorite character it would definitely be Zeke! He won me over for many reasons! He's absolutely adorable in his macho tough as nails kinda way. =) The ending though...URGH!! I kept swiping the page on my ereader hoping it was frozen. There had to be more! No way could I already be finished?!? I must know what happens next!!
*Immediately after reading this I had to tell my teen about it. I could not stop. I want her to read it. I feel like all of her friends should. We need to educate them about these things, so they can prevent themselves from being stuck in such a situation (or at least get them to speak up before it's too late).
BTW...After seeing the cover reveal my teen was in love. I'll let you know what she thinks after she reads it. ;•)
July 28, 2013
Evie, Evie, Evie. Zeke, Zeke, Zeke. And Crazy Tony.....oh how I wish I could read on. But, I GUESS I can wait til 8/25… Honestly, this is a dark story of a rich girl who ends up in a physically and mentally abusive relationship. Said abuse is discovered by a classmate, who lives in a broken home on the wrong side of the tracks. The characters are vivid and the conversations are realistic . I love Zeke. He's a good guy in a difficult situation. I'm rooting for love and a happy ending for two broken souls.
September 10, 2016
Holy crap.. NOOOOOO!!
July 15, 2013
Unbelievably heart breaking and written so perfectly. Here's a book that will allow you into the mind of a girl getting abused repeatedly and all the reasons for staying. Although I can't agree with any of them, the author has pulled on your heart strings and you find yourself screaming at Evie trying to give her hope. To give her comfort and to just wrap your arms around her. How she has lived so long this way and been able to keep that secret is beyond me. You can "feel" the broken pieces of what she was. It tears my heart in two. You want to be mad at her and yell at her, but in the same emotion want to reach for her and help. That's where Zeke comes in. He stumbles upon it one night and that's when he knows even if he's being told to keep his nose out of what's not his business he can't seem to forget what he saw and he can longer hold people at an arms distance if he allows himself to care. What these two find is a collision of their lives about to happen and circumstances that will have to be escaped. But making these choices doesn't come easily when these two have spent their lives on separate sides of the crowd.
This story was written with a two point of views, from Evie and Zeke, so we get to see inside both of their thoughts which is fantastic to be a part of because we get to know each of them separately and we come to know all the reasons as to why they are the way they are.
If you enjoy reading contemporary romance novels then make sure you pick this one up and have tissues on hand! This is a story you don't want to miss out on! It's a story of learning to hope for something better, a story of new bonds that can save your life when you thought all was lost...it's a story of finding freedom to be free. But be warned the ending will leave you breathless and maybe a little upset! I know I was trying to force the page to turn before I realized BAM book is done but you weren't ready for it to end!! Aghhhh need sequel YESTERDAY!! Pick this book up lovelies! I give it my thumbs up!
This story was written with a two point of views, from Evie and Zeke, so we get to see inside both of their thoughts which is fantastic to be a part of because we get to know each of them separately and we come to know all the reasons as to why they are the way they are.
If you enjoy reading contemporary romance novels then make sure you pick this one up and have tissues on hand! This is a story you don't want to miss out on! It's a story of learning to hope for something better, a story of new bonds that can save your life when you thought all was lost...it's a story of finding freedom to be free. But be warned the ending will leave you breathless and maybe a little upset! I know I was trying to force the page to turn before I realized BAM book is done but you weren't ready for it to end!! Aghhhh need sequel YESTERDAY!! Pick this book up lovelies! I give it my thumbs up!
August 31, 2013
I am trembling though. That much I remember. Trembling with every breath I take, and I can hear the shaky exhales as they are forced out of my lungs. Every breath in and out is a struggle, and that's mostly what I'm thinking about. All I can focus on.
WOW.WOW.WOW.
The Things We Can't Change was a phenomenal read with exceptionally well-developed characters. I'm usually not a fan of books that revolve around abuse, as it is quite a heavy and daunting subject matter. However, I felt inexplicably drawn to this book, and I knew instantly that I had to give this book a go.
Both Evie and Zeke were extremely realistic characters who had their own flaws, insecurities and problems. I absolutely loved how the author didn't squeeze in this big unnecessary insta-love kind of relationship between them. She kept the story real, and I felt that it really helped accentuate the deeply intimate and meaningful aspect of the story.
BUT THAT ENDING!!
My heart just shattered. The likelihood of that outcome at the end is definitely not something anyone will be looking forward to. I'm so scared to read the next book ....but I need to know! I need to know what happens!!
WOW.WOW.WOW.
The Things We Can't Change was a phenomenal read with exceptionally well-developed characters. I'm usually not a fan of books that revolve around abuse, as it is quite a heavy and daunting subject matter. However, I felt inexplicably drawn to this book, and I knew instantly that I had to give this book a go.
Both Evie and Zeke were extremely realistic characters who had their own flaws, insecurities and problems. I absolutely loved how the author didn't squeeze in this big unnecessary insta-love kind of relationship between them. She kept the story real, and I felt that it really helped accentuate the deeply intimate and meaningful aspect of the story.
BUT THAT ENDING!!
My heart just shattered. The likelihood of that outcome at the end is definitely not something anyone will be looking forward to. I'm so scared to read the next book ....but I need to know! I need to know what happens!!
July 26, 2013
No, no, no, no, no!
I know this is only the first part of a much bigger story, and maybe I shouldn’t be saying this, this early on (praising something too soon can sometimes be a bad omen), but The Things We Can’t Change has a real potential to be something special; something that will pull and tug on my heart-strings and clog up my throat.
I love how brutally realistic the story and the characters are portrayed. There is no love or even lust at first sight. For now, there’s only an attraction, and I can’t wait to see it slowly develop into something more. The white knight in shining armor, who drops everything to save the girl, isn’t as white and has his own battles to fight. And the damsel in distress maybe doesn’t even want to be rescued.
Kassandra Kush's The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue is real and raw, and I loved every part of it. So, while I'm here impatiently waiting for the next installment, I encourage you to give the first part a chance and read it. Maybe you'll fall in love with it just as much as I did.
I know this is only the first part of a much bigger story, and maybe I shouldn’t be saying this, this early on (praising something too soon can sometimes be a bad omen), but The Things We Can’t Change has a real potential to be something special; something that will pull and tug on my heart-strings and clog up my throat.
I love how brutally realistic the story and the characters are portrayed. There is no love or even lust at first sight. For now, there’s only an attraction, and I can’t wait to see it slowly develop into something more. The white knight in shining armor, who drops everything to save the girl, isn’t as white and has his own battles to fight. And the damsel in distress maybe doesn’t even want to be rescued.
Kassandra Kush's The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue is real and raw, and I loved every part of it. So, while I'm here impatiently waiting for the next installment, I encourage you to give the first part a chance and read it. Maybe you'll fall in love with it just as much as I did.
July 9, 2013
I don't even know what to say....But thank you for letting me read and review this amazing piece of work!!!
This book was something else. It is hard (at least for me) to read these kinds of book, but only because our world we live in is crazy and I like to get away from it all threw reading....BUT I loved this story!!!! I know the cliff-hanger had me screaming for the next page!! LOL I can't wait for part 2. The characters had a very big impact on my heart and mind. I loved them all from poor Evie, to Zeke who doesn't want to be in any part of this mess, to Tony who is a vary bad boy!!! I know your sitting there thinking "How could you like a bad character?" Well all I can tell you is every character in this book fits so perfectly, and written with such heart it makes them amazing! I recommend this this to everyone!!
This book was something else. It is hard (at least for me) to read these kinds of book, but only because our world we live in is crazy and I like to get away from it all threw reading....BUT I loved this story!!!! I know the cliff-hanger had me screaming for the next page!! LOL I can't wait for part 2. The characters had a very big impact on my heart and mind. I loved them all from poor Evie, to Zeke who doesn't want to be in any part of this mess, to Tony who is a vary bad boy!!! I know your sitting there thinking "How could you like a bad character?" Well all I can tell you is every character in this book fits so perfectly, and written with such heart it makes them amazing! I recommend this this to everyone!!
July 12, 2013
I am lucky enough to be able to get my hands on early copies of Kassandra's work, and let me tell you that this one DEFINITELY does not disappoint! It's told in alternating 1st person POVs (Zeke and Evie) and while sometimes it bothers me when authors head-jump like that, this one is wonderful! You really get to know each character intimately, like you're peeling open their skin and seeing into their souls. And ooh, both of them have some major demons to handle... Don't want to say too much because spoilers, but the subject matter is raw and honest and the writing is KILLER. It might be short but it definitely is not light and sweet... So don't say I didn't warn you, but definitely check this out when it hits Amazon in a couple weeks! You absolutely WILL NOT regret it!
August 29, 2013
Rendkívül érdekes, jól megfogott könyv volt, egy kapcsolaton belüli bántalmazásról, amíg a végére nem értem. A szereplők realisztikusak, és élők, Zekéhez szinte nyomban lehet érzelmileg kapcsolódni. A baj az volt, hogy az írónő elfelejtette befejezni a könyvet. Nincs megoldás, nincs lezárás, még csak valami részleges sem, a történet szimplán félbeszakad. Reméljük a második részben jobban sikerül a befejezés, én alig várom. D
November 13, 2014
Why do authors write endings like this?!?!?!?!?!?
December 6, 2015
Wow...
I can't even... the feels alone...
Wow! Just wow!
I need a loooonnnnnnggggggg moment. I just... you know when... have you ever...?
I...
I can't even... the feels alone...
Wow! Just wow!
I need a loooonnnnnnggggggg moment. I just... you know when... have you ever...?
I...
Want to read
January 2, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/2/2021)! 🎁
October 23, 2024
I enjoyed this book and its writing.
August 4, 2013
Into the Night Reviews
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I picked up The The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue in the full knowledge that it is the first instalment of a larger story. I'd actually read the first chapter on a post on the author's website and was so intrigued I simply HAD to read the rest of the book. I can honestly say I WAS NOT disappointed. Despite being short and finishing with a massive cliff hanger I absolutely loved The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue.
Kassandra Kush has tackled the very difficult subject of an abusive relationship in a way that is both confronting and informative. To everyone around her, Evie Parker is 'perfect' - beautiful, popular, wealthy and her boyfriend is the equally beautiful, popular and wealthy Tony Stulls. They are THE couple in high school. As is often the case though, appearances are not everything and there is a bleak, dark side to their relationship. Tony is unbalanced, psychologically controlling and violent. Evie is terrified: terrified of what he will do to her, of what he will do to himself and of people finding out what she is experiencing. The simple answer is that she should leave, or she should tell someone, which seems so obvious. But the flashes of the Tony she fell in love with: sweet and loving, combined with the threats he makes to harm himself make that option an impossible choice for Evie.
Zeke Quain is the quintessential bad boy. But really he's not - his attitude and style are carefully designed to help him keep distance between himself and everyone around him so that he doesn't get hurt again. With a background that couldn't be more opposite to Evie's, Zeke has to work at the Country Club that Evie and Tony are members at to help support his family. His younger sister, Cindy, is his kryptonite. He will do anything for her and in fact does everything he can to ensure she can pursue her dream of dancing. Cindy is the one person that Zeke can't say no to. Zeke and Evie go to school together, but they mix in totally different crowds. Both know of each other, but their interactions are generally filled with derision and disdain.
That is until Zeke discovers Evie's secret. Despite his vow to not care, he takes it upon himself to talk to her about what is happening with Tony and to encourage her to speak up. The dynamic between Zeke and Evie is just fantastic. There is no 'insta-love', in fact, they often can't speak with each other without one of them walking away furious at the assumptions being made. There is an underlying attraction, not to mention Zeke's obsession with Evie's hair, but it seems to me to be more about them recognising things in each other that they share. For Evie, there's a sense of safety when she is with Zeke.
The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue is very well written. The characters have depth and I was completely engaged from start to finish. Even the 'support cast' is so perfectly developed that I fell in love with Evie's dad, the self made success story, felt indifference towards her stepmother and felt that I really got to know each of Evie and Zeke's friends enough that they were meaningful characters in this story. The cliff hanger is massive - for a brief moment I wondered whether the version of the e-book I had wasn't complete and I actually said "Nooooooo" out loud when I realised it was, in fact, the end of Part One.
I cannot wait for Part Two. Apart from wanting to know what happened next from the final moments in the story, I want to see what happens with Evie and Zeke. It is absolutely not a given that they will be together. There are so many obstacles to this it almost seems impossible: and yet I'd really, really love to see a relationship between the two unfold.
Don't let the prospect of a cliff hanger put you off - you will seriously miss out on a wonderful story if you do.
Web: http://intothenightbookreviews.blogsp...
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/IntoTheNightR...
for great book reviews, new release updates, giveaways and more!!
I picked up The The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue in the full knowledge that it is the first instalment of a larger story. I'd actually read the first chapter on a post on the author's website and was so intrigued I simply HAD to read the rest of the book. I can honestly say I WAS NOT disappointed. Despite being short and finishing with a massive cliff hanger I absolutely loved The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue.
Kassandra Kush has tackled the very difficult subject of an abusive relationship in a way that is both confronting and informative. To everyone around her, Evie Parker is 'perfect' - beautiful, popular, wealthy and her boyfriend is the equally beautiful, popular and wealthy Tony Stulls. They are THE couple in high school. As is often the case though, appearances are not everything and there is a bleak, dark side to their relationship. Tony is unbalanced, psychologically controlling and violent. Evie is terrified: terrified of what he will do to her, of what he will do to himself and of people finding out what she is experiencing. The simple answer is that she should leave, or she should tell someone, which seems so obvious. But the flashes of the Tony she fell in love with: sweet and loving, combined with the threats he makes to harm himself make that option an impossible choice for Evie.
Zeke Quain is the quintessential bad boy. But really he's not - his attitude and style are carefully designed to help him keep distance between himself and everyone around him so that he doesn't get hurt again. With a background that couldn't be more opposite to Evie's, Zeke has to work at the Country Club that Evie and Tony are members at to help support his family. His younger sister, Cindy, is his kryptonite. He will do anything for her and in fact does everything he can to ensure she can pursue her dream of dancing. Cindy is the one person that Zeke can't say no to. Zeke and Evie go to school together, but they mix in totally different crowds. Both know of each other, but their interactions are generally filled with derision and disdain.
That is until Zeke discovers Evie's secret. Despite his vow to not care, he takes it upon himself to talk to her about what is happening with Tony and to encourage her to speak up. The dynamic between Zeke and Evie is just fantastic. There is no 'insta-love', in fact, they often can't speak with each other without one of them walking away furious at the assumptions being made. There is an underlying attraction, not to mention Zeke's obsession with Evie's hair, but it seems to me to be more about them recognising things in each other that they share. For Evie, there's a sense of safety when she is with Zeke.
The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue is very well written. The characters have depth and I was completely engaged from start to finish. Even the 'support cast' is so perfectly developed that I fell in love with Evie's dad, the self made success story, felt indifference towards her stepmother and felt that I really got to know each of Evie and Zeke's friends enough that they were meaningful characters in this story. The cliff hanger is massive - for a brief moment I wondered whether the version of the e-book I had wasn't complete and I actually said "Nooooooo" out loud when I realised it was, in fact, the end of Part One.
I cannot wait for Part Two. Apart from wanting to know what happened next from the final moments in the story, I want to see what happens with Evie and Zeke. It is absolutely not a given that they will be together. There are so many obstacles to this it almost seems impossible: and yet I'd really, really love to see a relationship between the two unfold.
Don't let the prospect of a cliff hanger put you off - you will seriously miss out on a wonderful story if you do.
August 9, 2013
....this really was a fun book to read....I read this eNovella in two days. Kassandra Kush did a great job snagging my attention with the opening scene. In The Things We Can’t Change, we are introduced to Zeke and Evie. Ezekiel, nice Biblical name, is a tough, trying to stay on the straight and narrow, almost reformed graffiti artist. Evie is a country club prep, daughter of a doctor trying to strike a balance a between her sanity, safety and her abusive boyfriend. Both of these characters struggle with their inner demons, while trying to navigate high school and family life.
Short version: Evie is abused emotionally and then raped by her popular boyfriend. We are witness, as readers, to Evie’s pain and confusion. (It’s rather intense, but not inappropriate for upper teen readers.) Zeke discovers the truth, encourages Evie to be brave for her own self, but when she is unable to or unwilling to, Zeke doesn’t understand. He thinks she should be able to just walk away from the abuser, like he did from graffiti. But in the end, it all comes crashing down around them both.
I really liked the character of Zeke. There was something about the way Kush caught the essence of a misunderstood young man.” I loved how he looked after his little sister. I thought Zeke’s layers as the protagonist were well written, and there was honesty about his character that came through the story. So much so, that I can image Zeke hanging out around any corner on a high school campus. Evie, although the “maiden in distress in need of rescue”, was not as likable in my opinion, but her story was central to helping Zeke manifest bravery he didn’t know he had. Kush did a bang up job presenting a story based on tough real life situations.
After I read this, I thought about who Evie and Zeke are in the real world...he is the bad boy, tatted, troubled, and afraid he is unlovable. Evie is the spoiled little rich girl, who should have had it all, and lives with the fact she doesn't believe she's lovable either. Classic. We all run around shielding ourselves from our fears, hiding truths we can't face, refuse to face. So, I found a little music video that reminded me of this story. I will definitely be watching for part two. Bring it on Miss Kush!
And then, Kassandra Kush just applied the brakes on her keyboard and left us HANGING! And I mean hanging, literally...so...don’t expect any resolutions in book one. Curses!!! Part two is due out
Short version: Evie is abused emotionally and then raped by her popular boyfriend. We are witness, as readers, to Evie’s pain and confusion. (It’s rather intense, but not inappropriate for upper teen readers.) Zeke discovers the truth, encourages Evie to be brave for her own self, but when she is unable to or unwilling to, Zeke doesn’t understand. He thinks she should be able to just walk away from the abuser, like he did from graffiti. But in the end, it all comes crashing down around them both.
I really liked the character of Zeke. There was something about the way Kush caught the essence of a misunderstood young man.” I loved how he looked after his little sister. I thought Zeke’s layers as the protagonist were well written, and there was honesty about his character that came through the story. So much so, that I can image Zeke hanging out around any corner on a high school campus. Evie, although the “maiden in distress in need of rescue”, was not as likable in my opinion, but her story was central to helping Zeke manifest bravery he didn’t know he had. Kush did a bang up job presenting a story based on tough real life situations.
After I read this, I thought about who Evie and Zeke are in the real world...he is the bad boy, tatted, troubled, and afraid he is unlovable. Evie is the spoiled little rich girl, who should have had it all, and lives with the fact she doesn't believe she's lovable either. Classic. We all run around shielding ourselves from our fears, hiding truths we can't face, refuse to face. So, I found a little music video that reminded me of this story. I will definitely be watching for part two. Bring it on Miss Kush!
And then, Kassandra Kush just applied the brakes on her keyboard and left us HANGING! And I mean hanging, literally...so...don’t expect any resolutions in book one. Curses!!! Part two is due out
July 23, 2016
5 Most Shocking and Disturbing Stars!
This is me after finishing this first part of the series ..
I want to specify that when I say disturbing and shocking, I mean it in a non-graphic violent way, but more on the event happening in general.
This definitely left a bitter taste in my mouth.... like, I can't believe just how stupid.... ugh!!! I am shock... devastated.
But this could really happen, so we're talking a close to reality story.... the abuse, the consequences, those elite snobs that thinks they are way better than everyone else and they can't do anything wrong, ugh....
I just really could not understand the why's... I wished Evie, the lead female character, listened to Zeke, the lead male character. I am so confused and frustrated right now.
My heart breaks for Zeke, look what doing the right thing would get you! Not the right kind of message we want to put out, but it is happening....sigh...
This is one of those that I can't say anything about the plot cause then it might just lead to a complete spoiler.
I hesitate to read what happens next, not because I find the story bad, not.at.all......on the contrary, it is most brilliantly written and a quite stirring storyline... but because it kinda scares me to know so what's next? I really don't want to hate Evie... and I am feeling so bad for Zeke. While, at the same time, I badly wanna know what's next for Evie and Zeke.
And may I just add, what a most apt title.... "the things we can't change"... true enough...
REVIEW ALSO SHARED AND POSTED HERE (and the free Purchase Links for said book ;) ) :SLITSREAD
This is me after finishing this first part of the series ..
I want to specify that when I say disturbing and shocking, I mean it in a non-graphic violent way, but more on the event happening in general.
This definitely left a bitter taste in my mouth.... like, I can't believe just how stupid.... ugh!!! I am shock... devastated.
But this could really happen, so we're talking a close to reality story.... the abuse, the consequences, those elite snobs that thinks they are way better than everyone else and they can't do anything wrong, ugh....
I just really could not understand the why's... I wished Evie, the lead female character, listened to Zeke, the lead male character. I am so confused and frustrated right now.
My heart breaks for Zeke, look what doing the right thing would get you! Not the right kind of message we want to put out, but it is happening....sigh...
This is one of those that I can't say anything about the plot cause then it might just lead to a complete spoiler.
I hesitate to read what happens next, not because I find the story bad, not.at.all......on the contrary, it is most brilliantly written and a quite stirring storyline... but because it kinda scares me to know so what's next? I really don't want to hate Evie... and I am feeling so bad for Zeke. While, at the same time, I badly wanna know what's next for Evie and Zeke.
And may I just add, what a most apt title.... "the things we can't change"... true enough...
REVIEW ALSO SHARED AND POSTED HERE (and the free Purchase Links for said book ;) ) :SLITSREAD
July 20, 2013
Have you ever had a secret that you felt you had to keep,deep within you out of fear? Or perhaps you kept it because you thought you may loose yourself if you lost the reason for the secret? Maybe some of you can say yes and other no. If no, maybe you knew someone who had been torn apart because they held a deep dark secret that held them in a situation that only brought them deeper into the shadows of their own hell.
(Evie)Evangeline Parker has a dark secret she battles to keep between herself and the reason there is a secret to begin with. Afraid for her life? Afraid for his? Unsure who she may be if she finally set herself free. Evie is one of those have it all rich girls,with their nose stuck high in the air, though nicer then most. Her life looks perfect on the outside to everyone but her. She has money,beauty, brains and the perfect stud of a boyfriend,Tony. Will she end up escaping the secret that threatens to devour her whole? Or become free? But at what cost?
(Zeke)Ezekiel Quain is the boy from the other side of the track. Troubled to those who view him from a distance. A past that has changed his views on the future and changed how he is with everyone in general. All but his younger sister Cindy, she is the very reason he sticks around, works to pay for her dream future. He has learned to close out his emotions until a certain rich girl name Evie collides with his world, or more so the deadly secret she has hidden for so long. Will Zeke be the reason she can become free of the ties that have bound her to this secret? Or will he curse the day she made him feel again?
Dive into their lives and learn whether keeping dark secrets truly is worth living. Or if shutting out your dreams and emotions will make things better or worse?
The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue kept pulling me in, keeping me wondering what would happen next. I found it hard to put down,though at first I thought I may find it hard to sit and read. I look forward to the next installment to this book...such an evil cliffhanger to leave it at.
(Evie)Evangeline Parker has a dark secret she battles to keep between herself and the reason there is a secret to begin with. Afraid for her life? Afraid for his? Unsure who she may be if she finally set herself free. Evie is one of those have it all rich girls,with their nose stuck high in the air, though nicer then most. Her life looks perfect on the outside to everyone but her. She has money,beauty, brains and the perfect stud of a boyfriend,Tony. Will she end up escaping the secret that threatens to devour her whole? Or become free? But at what cost?
(Zeke)Ezekiel Quain is the boy from the other side of the track. Troubled to those who view him from a distance. A past that has changed his views on the future and changed how he is with everyone in general. All but his younger sister Cindy, she is the very reason he sticks around, works to pay for her dream future. He has learned to close out his emotions until a certain rich girl name Evie collides with his world, or more so the deadly secret she has hidden for so long. Will Zeke be the reason she can become free of the ties that have bound her to this secret? Or will he curse the day she made him feel again?
Dive into their lives and learn whether keeping dark secrets truly is worth living. Or if shutting out your dreams and emotions will make things better or worse?
The Things We Can't Change Part One: The Prologue kept pulling me in, keeping me wondering what would happen next. I found it hard to put down,though at first I thought I may find it hard to sit and read. I look forward to the next installment to this book...such an evil cliffhanger to leave it at.
September 4, 2013
Holy smokes was this a tough read. I mean it in a good way. I was completely immersed in the story from page one. Abuse is a difficult topic to cover but what I thought really set The Things We Can't Change apart from other books along the same lines is that both of the main characters are being abused. One by her boyfriend and one by society's judgments.
Evangeline is the girl every girl wants to be and every guy wants to be with...she seems to be perfection. She hides the abuse that she suffers at the hands of Tony well so that her image stays intact. She is a mess and rightly so. Tony has long held guilt over her head and has convinced her that she is at fault for her beatings. Evie made me want to weep. I believe her internal struggle with herself is what almost every abused woman must go through. She believes that Tony will kill himself if she leaves him, she knows what he is doing is wrong but she believes in a twisted, perverse way that if she is just "better" - at being a girlfriend, at school, at knowing her place - that he will just be the loving Tony that she fell for when they were younger.
Zeke is labeled a "bad boy" in school, at home and by society. He is teetering on a ledge and he is not sure how to get off. Once a brilliant artist, he has given his dreams up so that he can work to pay for his sisters aspiring dance career. He hides in the labels that society has pressed upon him - a screw-up, a menace, a juvenile delinquent. He is none of those things but finds life easier if he accepts his pre-judgment. Zeke is an amazing character and an unlikely hero to Evie.
The Things We Can't Change is a beautifully written story. I found myself rooting for Evie and Zeke both to find solace and strength in each other but also separately. I am looking forward to the continuation of the story to discover what more is in store for them.
Evangeline is the girl every girl wants to be and every guy wants to be with...she seems to be perfection. She hides the abuse that she suffers at the hands of Tony well so that her image stays intact. She is a mess and rightly so. Tony has long held guilt over her head and has convinced her that she is at fault for her beatings. Evie made me want to weep. I believe her internal struggle with herself is what almost every abused woman must go through. She believes that Tony will kill himself if she leaves him, she knows what he is doing is wrong but she believes in a twisted, perverse way that if she is just "better" - at being a girlfriend, at school, at knowing her place - that he will just be the loving Tony that she fell for when they were younger.
Zeke is labeled a "bad boy" in school, at home and by society. He is teetering on a ledge and he is not sure how to get off. Once a brilliant artist, he has given his dreams up so that he can work to pay for his sisters aspiring dance career. He hides in the labels that society has pressed upon him - a screw-up, a menace, a juvenile delinquent. He is none of those things but finds life easier if he accepts his pre-judgment. Zeke is an amazing character and an unlikely hero to Evie.
The Things We Can't Change is a beautifully written story. I found myself rooting for Evie and Zeke both to find solace and strength in each other but also separately. I am looking forward to the continuation of the story to discover what more is in store for them.
July 3, 2015
I picked up a copy of this book at UtopYa Con this year. In fact, I not only picked it up, I met the author and got my picture taken with her and the models for the updated cover photo. It was fun!
I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was a quick and engaging read, and I found myself picking it up in every spare moment. And although teenage abuse is not an original idea, this story carried an original artistry. The characters were nicely developed.
(Beware of possible spoilers)
I liked that Zeke was an unsung hero who was simply in the right place at the right time. The author did a great job of conveying Evie's fear of Tony and his power over her. I liked that this was a prologue and Evie and Zeke didn't fall instantly in love. In fact, it's still unclear at this point where this fresh relationship is going. Evie has a lot of sorting out to do after being trapped for so long. The events followed the short story arc fantastically, and the climax was extremely powerful, with Evie very quietly from where she lies in a hospital bed finally ridding herself of Tony for good. There were a few times that the story was so intense everything else in the room around me simply disappeared. I literally finished this book in the middle of the night because I was so caught up in the intensity.
Overall, this was a great little book, and I look forward to reading the next installment. The author was very smart about leaving an edge-of-your-seat cliffhanger that will bring her readers back for more! So I'm off to purchase book 2!
Casey Hays
Author of Breeder
I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was a quick and engaging read, and I found myself picking it up in every spare moment. And although teenage abuse is not an original idea, this story carried an original artistry. The characters were nicely developed.
(Beware of possible spoilers)
I liked that Zeke was an unsung hero who was simply in the right place at the right time. The author did a great job of conveying Evie's fear of Tony and his power over her. I liked that this was a prologue and Evie and Zeke didn't fall instantly in love. In fact, it's still unclear at this point where this fresh relationship is going. Evie has a lot of sorting out to do after being trapped for so long. The events followed the short story arc fantastically, and the climax was extremely powerful, with Evie very quietly from where she lies in a hospital bed finally ridding herself of Tony for good. There were a few times that the story was so intense everything else in the room around me simply disappeared. I literally finished this book in the middle of the night because I was so caught up in the intensity.
Overall, this was a great little book, and I look forward to reading the next installment. The author was very smart about leaving an edge-of-your-seat cliffhanger that will bring her readers back for more! So I'm off to purchase book 2!
Casey Hays
Author of Breeder
November 13, 2013
What can I say about this book!! It completely shattered my emotions. Zeke and Evie are two young teenagers trying to find their purpose in life. Zeke is tortured because his mother left and abandon the family after she was battling cancer. Now Zeke, has the weight on his shoulders at such a young age taking full responsibility to taking care of his sister that he truly loves. So now he's lost some perspective about how to feel emotions or how to feel anything about anybody. The moment he sees Evie his feelings are taking surface again which he doesn't want.
Evie is beautiful young girl who has a deep secret. She belongs to popular group and has the ideal boyfriend which everyone idolize from afar. If you look closely and see Evie face and her eyes you can tell she's not in the present she's far away with her thoughts. She's only here in body form, Evie clearly feels distant and in such doubt about why she going along with her fake relationship she has with her boyfriend Tony. Tony who is fact a troubled self loathing human being who has repeatedly beats up Evie because he can has been getting away with it for a long time. This is Evie dirty little secret. The one person who actually witness this sick abusive relationship is Zeke. The two worlds collide in a dramatic way and I can't wait to read what happens next with Evie and Zeke! A good read I rated it 3.5 stars
Evie is beautiful young girl who has a deep secret. She belongs to popular group and has the ideal boyfriend which everyone idolize from afar. If you look closely and see Evie face and her eyes you can tell she's not in the present she's far away with her thoughts. She's only here in body form, Evie clearly feels distant and in such doubt about why she going along with her fake relationship she has with her boyfriend Tony. Tony who is fact a troubled self loathing human being who has repeatedly beats up Evie because he can has been getting away with it for a long time. This is Evie dirty little secret. The one person who actually witness this sick abusive relationship is Zeke. The two worlds collide in a dramatic way and I can't wait to read what happens next with Evie and Zeke! A good read I rated it 3.5 stars
October 30, 2014
Often time when you read books about someone being in an abusive relationship you get mad at the character. You sit there and wonder why they're so stupid they won't run away, get the help and salvation they need from their personal devil. I started like that reading this book, but as I continued to read, no matter how short this book was I came to understand why sometimes people don't run away.
Fear.
That's what keep them. That was keeps our main character Evie, fear on so many levels in so many different forms it's hard to pick which one is the worst. I felt the fear Evie felt as I read this book, and I understood why she thought she couldn't escape. I connected with her on a level I never thought I would for such a short read. I also connected with Zeke on another level, making me love our two main characters and their story. My heart pounded half the time, fearing for the life of someone who might as well be a friend of mine, with each turn of the page I pulled myself deeper and deeper into their story, willing a happy ending.
A heart hammering and fantastic story that isn't even at an end, the things we can't change brings you into the life of two different teens and makes you love the same.
Fear.
That's what keep them. That was keeps our main character Evie, fear on so many levels in so many different forms it's hard to pick which one is the worst. I felt the fear Evie felt as I read this book, and I understood why she thought she couldn't escape. I connected with her on a level I never thought I would for such a short read. I also connected with Zeke on another level, making me love our two main characters and their story. My heart pounded half the time, fearing for the life of someone who might as well be a friend of mine, with each turn of the page I pulled myself deeper and deeper into their story, willing a happy ending.
A heart hammering and fantastic story that isn't even at an end, the things we can't change brings you into the life of two different teens and makes you love the same.
June 2, 2014
When the person you love starts changing it's time to get some help, but when they start hitting it's time to go. This book is told by Evangeline(Evie) Parker and Ezekiel(Zeke) Quain the protagonist. Evangeline Parker is the perfect girl, with a not so perfect secret. As a girl with brains, beauty, and perfect friends, life seems made for her. But there's one thing wrong with her life, that has her walls tumbling down.Tony her seemingly perfect boyfriend of 2 years. Abuses her time after time till one day he's caught by the guy Evie never wanted to see again, Ezekiel Quain.
The Things We Can't Change by Kassandra Kush involve rape and spouse abuse with the influence of peer pressure. Not suitable for children. If read by child under the age of 14 or 16, I recommend you talk to them about the book, and what it means. The only thing I can say about The Things We Can't Change by Kassandra Kush is that it is a little to strong to be a teen book. Because of the brief language and serious subject I wouldn't recommend this book to my friends. In a change of opinion it is some what difficult and at some point powerful and effective
The Things We Can't Change by Kassandra Kush involve rape and spouse abuse with the influence of peer pressure. Not suitable for children. If read by child under the age of 14 or 16, I recommend you talk to them about the book, and what it means. The only thing I can say about The Things We Can't Change by Kassandra Kush is that it is a little to strong to be a teen book. Because of the brief language and serious subject I wouldn't recommend this book to my friends. In a change of opinion it is some what difficult and at some point powerful and effective
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July 25, 2013Among the books I've read with abuse as the main theme, I find this to be one of the hardest to read. The story is nicely written though that you can't help but empathize with the main characters. As a reader, you will also feel Evie's pain, however there were also times that I want to question her own sanity for putting up with that psycho Tony! Oh well I guess that's love... or fear? Nevertheless I still want to comfort her, hug her, and be amazed with her strength. Zeke on the other hand, I admire. Despite what he went through or still going through, he never fails to look after his sister and making her his priority. Bad choices along the way considered. Since this is only a prologue (say what?!) I will not rate it just yet. For the meantime, I will anxiously wait for the next installment especially with that cliffhanger!
July 24, 2013
4.5 stars
Finally something not insta-love or insta-lust. The girl was actually faithful in her relationship. She wasn't constantly thinking about our hero. Our hero was great, too. He wasn't overly protective and aggressive. He had common sense that appealed as logic instead of arrogance. His actions went well with his background. I'm sure anyone who's been living his life would know too well the consequences of butting into others' business. And after all, he didn't even know our heroine that well.
In conclusion, I absolutely loved how realistic the main characters are. Their attraction was there, a bit subtle but that how real long lasting relationships are built. I'm just too tired of ridiculous love stories found in books these days. This book was different and great.
Finally something not insta-love or insta-lust. The girl was actually faithful in her relationship. She wasn't constantly thinking about our hero. Our hero was great, too. He wasn't overly protective and aggressive. He had common sense that appealed as logic instead of arrogance. His actions went well with his background. I'm sure anyone who's been living his life would know too well the consequences of butting into others' business. And after all, he didn't even know our heroine that well.
In conclusion, I absolutely loved how realistic the main characters are. Their attraction was there, a bit subtle but that how real long lasting relationships are built. I'm just too tired of ridiculous love stories found in books these days. This book was different and great.
December 19, 2013
Wow! I loved this book!
Abuse is such a tough subject to bring up to a YA audience, however, Kush did so excellently! I often find myself reading a book and thinking "as if that would happen in real life." The way that Kush approaches the abuse is realistic and engrossing.
The storyline sucked me in straight away! It did not take me very long to get into it and I immediately felt a connection to Evie and Zeke. The writing is beautiful. I feel this book is a must read for YA readers as romance can often be exaggerated and star-crossed and 'The things we can't change' delves into reality and definitely opened my eyes to abusive relationships.
DEFINITELY A MUST READ! Xx
Abuse is such a tough subject to bring up to a YA audience, however, Kush did so excellently! I often find myself reading a book and thinking "as if that would happen in real life." The way that Kush approaches the abuse is realistic and engrossing.
The storyline sucked me in straight away! It did not take me very long to get into it and I immediately felt a connection to Evie and Zeke. The writing is beautiful. I feel this book is a must read for YA readers as romance can often be exaggerated and star-crossed and 'The things we can't change' delves into reality and definitely opened my eyes to abusive relationships.
DEFINITELY A MUST READ! Xx
August 10, 2013
Book # 101 of 2013
Holy mother of all cliffhangers!!!
I loved the story, the start was strong and immediately caught me wanting to read more. But that's what this book exactly was - a pro-f*cking-logue. Would I read the "Main" story? Hell yes.
The story touches a very sensitive subject, I felt bad for Evie and I can't imagine what the ending will do to Zeke. It was a whole clusterf*ck of events and I found myself gasping when I read the last page.
If you can't handle cliffhangers, don't even read this. Just wait for the next book in a few months and read it then. :-P
Holy mother of all cliffhangers!!!
I loved the story, the start was strong and immediately caught me wanting to read more. But that's what this book exactly was - a pro-f*cking-logue. Would I read the "Main" story? Hell yes.
The story touches a very sensitive subject, I felt bad for Evie and I can't imagine what the ending will do to Zeke. It was a whole clusterf*ck of events and I found myself gasping when I read the last page.
If you can't handle cliffhangers, don't even read this. Just wait for the next book in a few months and read it then. :-P
August 3, 2013
Unbelievable.! I can't believe this book ended in a cliffhanger .. And what a cliffhanger it was..!! I was frantically swiping at my kindle murmuring a distressful "No.. No.."s at the end..
To start with,the cover is absolutely beautiful .. And after I started the book I was instantly in love with it.. It was realistic and that's most admirable..
I literally can't wait for the second book ..
To start with,the cover is absolutely beautiful .. And after I started the book I was instantly in love with it.. It was realistic and that's most admirable..
I literally can't wait for the second book ..
December 2, 2015
This story was awesome! Connected with everyone, felt the feels, eagerly awaited the next chapter and the next...and ta-daaaa a huge cliffhanger :( So disappointed...
Still gave it four stars because it was realky a great read. I hate major cliffhangers and very seldom read on to the next book because I'm always afraid the next will end the same way. So that being said, I probably won't read on to see how this plays out.
Still gave it four stars because it was realky a great read. I hate major cliffhangers and very seldom read on to the next book because I'm always afraid the next will end the same way. So that being said, I probably won't read on to see how this plays out.
August 19, 2013
OH MY GOD! What an awful cliffhanger! This story will pull your heartstrings, but I would recommend waiting for part 2 before engrossing yourself into part one of the story. The cliffhanger ending will make you cringe, tear up, and think "Oh no. This isn't going where I think it's going. Oh my god! It did!"
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