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The Opposite of Nothing
Callie Evans would rather hide out in her DJ sound booth than face the fact that she's in love with her best friend, notorious campus hottie Tayber King.
Tayber turns hooking up into an art form--no drama, no commitment, no lies, and nobody gets hurt. Nobody but Callie, that is. When she sees an opportunity to explore his sexier side using a fake online profile, she grabs it. Now her uninhibited alter-ego 'Sasha' is steaming up the screen, and Callie is breaking all of Tayber’s rules.
As Callie and Tayber get closer, online and off, she knows she has to confess. And risk losing him forever.
**For mature readers, contains strong language and adult situations.**
Tayber turns hooking up into an art form--no drama, no commitment, no lies, and nobody gets hurt. Nobody but Callie, that is. When she sees an opportunity to explore his sexier side using a fake online profile, she grabs it. Now her uninhibited alter-ego 'Sasha' is steaming up the screen, and Callie is breaking all of Tayber’s rules.
As Callie and Tayber get closer, online and off, she knows she has to confess. And risk losing him forever.
**For mature readers, contains strong language and adult situations.**
103 pages, ebook
First published February 26, 2014
7 people are currently reading
547 people want to read
About the author
Shari Slade
15 books386 followersShari Slade is the USA Today bestselling author of sexy new adult and rock star romance. She's a snarky optimist. A would-be academic with big dreams and very little means. When she isn’t toiling away in the non-profit sector, she’s writing gritty stories about identity and people who make terrible choices in the name of love (or lust). Somehow, it all works out in the end. If she had a patronus it would be a platypus.
Frequently found in a blanket fort, you can also find her contributing at Wonkomance, on twitter, facebook, or tumblr. For new release updates, sign up for the newsletter.
Frequently found in a blanket fort, you can also find her contributing at Wonkomance, on twitter, facebook, or tumblr. For new release updates, sign up for the newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
January 28, 2019
Así de malo estará este libro que ya lo había leído y mi cerebro lo borró de mi memoria.
Muchas veces cuando voy leyendo me voy acordando este no fue el caso sino fuera porque GR me dijo que ya lo había leído ni en cuenta.
Y obvio le bajé la calificación.
Es un libro que pasa sin pena ni gloria, la historia tenía potencial pero el desarrollo es pésimo.
Los protagonistas son planos e incongruentes en lo que hacen y dicen.
Se supone que son amigos y su relación de amistad es bien rarita.
Además deja muchas cosas inconclusas.
Muchas veces cuando voy leyendo me voy acordando este no fue el caso sino fuera porque GR me dijo que ya lo había leído ni en cuenta.
Y obvio le bajé la calificación.
Es un libro que pasa sin pena ni gloria, la historia tenía potencial pero el desarrollo es pésimo.
Los protagonistas son planos e incongruentes en lo que hacen y dicen.
Se supone que son amigos y su relación de amistad es bien rarita.
Además deja muchas cosas inconclusas.
Read
March 2, 2014Please note: I stopped starring reviews awhile ago. They make me stress, and I like to avoid stress.
Instead I designate this book as: Running-into-Walls good. The last book that made me run-into-walls was Alexis Hall's Glitterland. Not a comp title, but gives you a sense of my taste.
In THE OPPOSITE OF NOTHING, Shari Slade takes the "Just Friends" trope and injects it with such wry, authentic, achey longing that I became physically uncomfortable. GOD HOW I SQUIRMED. SO. MUCH. SQUIRMING.
Callie (the Nick Drake loving DJ who I want to be my BFF) secretly crushes on her friend, Tayber. In a moment of drunk, lust-fueled bad judgment, she created a fictional online identity. Yep. She secretly engages in online masturbation sessions with her pal. It's blisteringly hot. And awkward. And creates all the conflict, obviously.
Here is a book that delivers the New Adult awkward with honesty, sexual awakening (a dumb term, but I can't think of better one offhand) with scorching intensity. DID I MENTION THE DELICIOUS SQUIRMS?
Shari Slade brought her A-game with language. It's literary without becoming pretentious--a difficult feat. This is the real deal, yo. Writing chops are in full force.
My only criticism is that it's a novella. Yeah, yeah, it's perfect, but MUST HAVE MORE SLADE BOOKS.
Instead I designate this book as: Running-into-Walls good. The last book that made me run-into-walls was Alexis Hall's Glitterland. Not a comp title, but gives you a sense of my taste.
In THE OPPOSITE OF NOTHING, Shari Slade takes the "Just Friends" trope and injects it with such wry, authentic, achey longing that I became physically uncomfortable. GOD HOW I SQUIRMED. SO. MUCH. SQUIRMING.
Callie (the Nick Drake loving DJ who I want to be my BFF) secretly crushes on her friend, Tayber. In a moment of drunk, lust-fueled bad judgment, she created a fictional online identity. Yep. She secretly engages in online masturbation sessions with her pal. It's blisteringly hot. And awkward. And creates all the conflict, obviously.
Here is a book that delivers the New Adult awkward with honesty, sexual awakening (a dumb term, but I can't think of better one offhand) with scorching intensity. DID I MENTION THE DELICIOUS SQUIRMS?
Shari Slade brought her A-game with language. It's literary without becoming pretentious--a difficult feat. This is the real deal, yo. Writing chops are in full force.
My only criticism is that it's a novella. Yeah, yeah, it's perfect, but MUST HAVE MORE SLADE BOOKS.
February 21, 2016
The Opposite Of Nothing es la primera novela que leo de su autora, Shari Slade.
Para ser sincera empece esta lectura porque la portada me llamo mucho la atencion, ademas nunca me puedo resistir a las historias de amor entre amigos.
Esperaba algo diferente cuando lo inicie. La trama no era mala pero para mi le falto mucho desarrollo, tanto a los personajes como a la historia en si, todo era demasiado simple .
No me desagrado que fuera un libro juvenil mas que Young Adult, lo que no me convencio fue que todo el desarrollo, si se le puede llamar asi fuera soso y sin chispa.
Al ser mi primera experiencia con el trabajo de la autora no se si todos sus libros son asi o si simplemente este era un caso extraordinario pero despues de leer The Opposite Of Nothing me pensare mucho el leerme otro libro de la autora.
1.5 Estrellas!
February 27, 2014
4.5 stars, mostly because I wanted it to be longer. :)
I am always excited to read books written by friends, but I'm also always a little nervous. Because if I don't like their book, then I have to find an honest but gentle way to let them know why. And that can be hard. So when I can honestly rave & enthuse about the book, I'm always thrilled.
Shari's book sucked me back into my teen/college years with a vengeance. My life wasn't nearly as rough as either Callie or Tayber's, but I can identify so strongly with that sense of isolation & that *need* to connect with someone, that it was hard to read sometimes. I was so worried about what might happen to this pair's friendship, that I almost skipped a HOT scene because the potential consequences were freaking me out.
(Relax. I went back immediately and read that scene. I haven't *completely* lost it! Oooh, and it was smoking hot.)
Some of the scenes involving Tayber's family issues didn't quite satisfy me, mostly because I think I wanted more background or detail, which is hard to accommodate in a novella, I know. But I loved Callie's awkwardness, I loved that she eats crap food and doesn't always clean and sometimes says mean things when she doesn't know how to say what she really wants. And I wish I'd had a Tayber to look out for me when I was doing stupid shit in college, because everyone should have that kind of backup.
This book made me break out old cd's I loved and remember old mistakes I made, and I've never been so glad to know I was going to get my HEA at the end of a book. I wish all messed up college students and lonely kids could have one of those, just like this.
I am always excited to read books written by friends, but I'm also always a little nervous. Because if I don't like their book, then I have to find an honest but gentle way to let them know why. And that can be hard. So when I can honestly rave & enthuse about the book, I'm always thrilled.
Shari's book sucked me back into my teen/college years with a vengeance. My life wasn't nearly as rough as either Callie or Tayber's, but I can identify so strongly with that sense of isolation & that *need* to connect with someone, that it was hard to read sometimes. I was so worried about what might happen to this pair's friendship, that I almost skipped a HOT scene because the potential consequences were freaking me out.
(Relax. I went back immediately and read that scene. I haven't *completely* lost it! Oooh, and it was smoking hot.)
Some of the scenes involving Tayber's family issues didn't quite satisfy me, mostly because I think I wanted more background or detail, which is hard to accommodate in a novella, I know. But I loved Callie's awkwardness, I loved that she eats crap food and doesn't always clean and sometimes says mean things when she doesn't know how to say what she really wants. And I wish I'd had a Tayber to look out for me when I was doing stupid shit in college, because everyone should have that kind of backup.
This book made me break out old cd's I loved and remember old mistakes I made, and I've never been so glad to know I was going to get my HEA at the end of a book. I wish all messed up college students and lonely kids could have one of those, just like this.
July 17, 2014
2,5 Stars! The Opposite of Nothing was a nice story! It could have been so much better thought, if the heroine wasn't so depressing as a character and if it was a little bit more lenghty because many things were left unsaid..
The story is about two friends that secretly have feelings for each other, Tayber, the gorgeous playboy with the disastrous childhood and the sweet heart and Callie, the very closed of and self-conscious, music geek with many possibilities. So the real story begins when she gets drunk one night and decides to talk to him online pretending to be someone else..
Yes that is very interesting plot! And i was waiting for something to happen.. I was left with the hope..
Although the book is nicely written and i liked most of it, the main characteristic of Callie couldn't let me rate it higher. She was too dull and not even a little bit funny.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- Tayber was very hurt from Aaron's betrayal..
- No matter what happened in the past i wanted Aaron to be there for his brother.
- The relationship was too dramatic..
- It could have gone in so many ways.. But still it was ok..
- I liked the ending..
The story is about two friends that secretly have feelings for each other, Tayber, the gorgeous playboy with the disastrous childhood and the sweet heart and Callie, the very closed of and self-conscious, music geek with many possibilities. So the real story begins when she gets drunk one night and decides to talk to him online pretending to be someone else..
Yes that is very interesting plot! And i was waiting for something to happen.. I was left with the hope..
Although the book is nicely written and i liked most of it, the main characteristic of Callie couldn't let me rate it higher. She was too dull and not even a little bit funny.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- Tayber was very hurt from Aaron's betrayal..
- No matter what happened in the past i wanted Aaron to be there for his brother.
- The relationship was too dramatic..
- It could have gone in so many ways.. But still it was ok..
- I liked the ending..
January 10, 2017
Una linda historia que muestra lo que en ocasiones somos capaces de hacer para obtener lo que queremos, aun si no pensamos en el daño que podremos hacer cuando todo sea descubierto.
September 8, 2016
“All she did was lie.”
She met Tayber first when he was having sex with her roommate, Callie spoke up during their tryst and asked them to keep it down. Next day Taber recognized her in calculus class and asked for her help with the subject. He wormed his way in from there, but seeing him hopping from one girl to the other had her scared. She didn't want to be nothing to him.
“I don’t lie. I don’t make promises. When I fuck someone it’s because we both want the same thing.”
Don’t ask. Do not ask. Her heart lurched into her throat, but not fast enough to block the question she did not want the answer to. “What’s that?”
“Nothing. When we both want nothing.”
So she had created a fake profile to get closer to Tayber. Closer to a side of him she thought she would never see in person. What else was she supposed to do? She promised herself she would stop soon though, that she would tell him the truth. But the more she got from online Tayber the more she wanted. Which led to her keep postponing her confession.
Tayber hadn't had the best childhood and that had him thinking everything good in his life would be screwed up by him or his family, sooner or later. So he took great care to never care too much for anything or anyone. That didn't include Callie though, he let himself care deeply for her....but he felt he didn't deserve her.
“She’d looked at him like he was the monster under the bed. Maybe I am.”
Somehow he befriended an online friend, one whom he could vent to. One thing lead to another and soon things got pretty steamy. But how would he react when he would find out that his online friend was actually Callie.
“I am not heartbroken. I’m pissed.”
“Sometimes that feels pretty much the same.”
It took me a while to write this review, there were things I liked in this book and there were things I didn't like. Or more so didn't completely understand. Like both Callie and Tayber had rich backgrounds but they were only briefly mentioned, there was no real dept to that or them. Which led to me not completely connecting with them.
Let's take Callie, I didn't like her deceiving Tayber but everything is easier done online, especially while pretending to be someone else. Her reasoning made sense at first, she was scared of being rejected and ridiculed for her attraction towards Tayber. Taking in consideration that she had escaped her hometown because she was bullied there, didn't had me in her corner but I understood.
Her mother was mentioned briefly, she didn't do much to help Callie when she was being bullied. Her only advice had been, for Callie to try harder... Didn't like the sound of that mom of hers.
“Trying doesn’t work with people who’ve already decided they don’t want to be friends. And why would you want friends that don’t want you?”
But I wondered why Callie was bullied and when did it start. Why didn't anyone help or step in. And what was wrong with her mother.
Tayber too had ran from his past, his was a little shady and he had done shady things for money as well. It was implied what he did, but if he did what I think he did.....that's really messed up for one so young. And it made sense why he hadn't had the best opinion of himself.
I liked the beginning where Callie and Tayber's friendship shined through. The thing I liked best about the book were the steamy chat sessions. All in all it's still a pretty decent story, a little fast paced, a little short, a little vague but the steamy parts saved the day.
“She lied to me. A lot.”
“Why?”
“That’s what I’d like to know.”
“People lie for a lot of reasons. Because they want things they aren’t supposed to have. Because they’re afraid of the consequences. Because they don’t want to hurt or be hurt. Any of that ring true?”
She met Tayber first when he was having sex with her roommate, Callie spoke up during their tryst and asked them to keep it down. Next day Taber recognized her in calculus class and asked for her help with the subject. He wormed his way in from there, but seeing him hopping from one girl to the other had her scared. She didn't want to be nothing to him.
“I don’t lie. I don’t make promises. When I fuck someone it’s because we both want the same thing.”
Don’t ask. Do not ask. Her heart lurched into her throat, but not fast enough to block the question she did not want the answer to. “What’s that?”
“Nothing. When we both want nothing.”
So she had created a fake profile to get closer to Tayber. Closer to a side of him she thought she would never see in person. What else was she supposed to do? She promised herself she would stop soon though, that she would tell him the truth. But the more she got from online Tayber the more she wanted. Which led to her keep postponing her confession.
Tayber hadn't had the best childhood and that had him thinking everything good in his life would be screwed up by him or his family, sooner or later. So he took great care to never care too much for anything or anyone. That didn't include Callie though, he let himself care deeply for her....but he felt he didn't deserve her.
“She’d looked at him like he was the monster under the bed. Maybe I am.”
Somehow he befriended an online friend, one whom he could vent to. One thing lead to another and soon things got pretty steamy. But how would he react when he would find out that his online friend was actually Callie.
“I am not heartbroken. I’m pissed.”
“Sometimes that feels pretty much the same.”
It took me a while to write this review, there were things I liked in this book and there were things I didn't like. Or more so didn't completely understand. Like both Callie and Tayber had rich backgrounds but they were only briefly mentioned, there was no real dept to that or them. Which led to me not completely connecting with them.
Let's take Callie, I didn't like her deceiving Tayber but everything is easier done online, especially while pretending to be someone else. Her reasoning made sense at first, she was scared of being rejected and ridiculed for her attraction towards Tayber. Taking in consideration that she had escaped her hometown because she was bullied there, didn't had me in her corner but I understood.
Her mother was mentioned briefly, she didn't do much to help Callie when she was being bullied. Her only advice had been, for Callie to try harder... Didn't like the sound of that mom of hers.
“Trying doesn’t work with people who’ve already decided they don’t want to be friends. And why would you want friends that don’t want you?”
But I wondered why Callie was bullied and when did it start. Why didn't anyone help or step in. And what was wrong with her mother.
Tayber too had ran from his past, his was a little shady and he had done shady things for money as well. It was implied what he did, but if he did what I think he did.....that's really messed up for one so young. And it made sense why he hadn't had the best opinion of himself.
I liked the beginning where Callie and Tayber's friendship shined through. The thing I liked best about the book were the steamy chat sessions. All in all it's still a pretty decent story, a little fast paced, a little short, a little vague but the steamy parts saved the day.
“She lied to me. A lot.”
“Why?”
“That’s what I’d like to know.”
“People lie for a lot of reasons. Because they want things they aren’t supposed to have. Because they’re afraid of the consequences. Because they don’t want to hurt or be hurt. Any of that ring true?”
March 10, 2014
**ARC generously provided by author in exchagne for an honest review**
The Opposite of Nothing is everything for the two main characters in this sweet novella. For my personal tastes, the book was a bit young for me. The characters were young and the actions of Callie were juvenile. But since it is NA and she was young in college I was able to look past it. Sorting through your feelings, however unconventional, is part of maturing so it worked here. The characters are a bit under-developed when it's come to both of their pasts and I wish we would have gotten a deeper look into both Callie and Tayber. The author provides us with a basic understanding of what their issues are but I thought even knowing a little more information could have made them that much more relatable. However, their friendship and banter is easy going and fun making their friendship a perfect base to explore deeper feelings for each other. From the very beginning you can tell they both care deeply for one another even though neither are ready to explore deeper feelings. I really enjoyed the dialogue in this story as I felt a connection to both characters. Having been in college once and having kept to myself like Callie does, I felt her pain although I didn't quite agree with her methods. Tayber is also working through some demons and realized Callie is a constant in his life who has taken root in his heart. Their story is fresh, a bit young, and fun. It is told from dual POV's which I liked here, as well. Being able to see how both reacted to events and one another was a good storytelling choice here. I enjoyed The Opposite of Nothing and would be interested in the relationship of Callie and Tayber further in another installment.
The Opposite of Nothing is everything for the two main characters in this sweet novella. For my personal tastes, the book was a bit young for me. The characters were young and the actions of Callie were juvenile. But since it is NA and she was young in college I was able to look past it. Sorting through your feelings, however unconventional, is part of maturing so it worked here. The characters are a bit under-developed when it's come to both of their pasts and I wish we would have gotten a deeper look into both Callie and Tayber. The author provides us with a basic understanding of what their issues are but I thought even knowing a little more information could have made them that much more relatable. However, their friendship and banter is easy going and fun making their friendship a perfect base to explore deeper feelings for each other. From the very beginning you can tell they both care deeply for one another even though neither are ready to explore deeper feelings. I really enjoyed the dialogue in this story as I felt a connection to both characters. Having been in college once and having kept to myself like Callie does, I felt her pain although I didn't quite agree with her methods. Tayber is also working through some demons and realized Callie is a constant in his life who has taken root in his heart. Their story is fresh, a bit young, and fun. It is told from dual POV's which I liked here, as well. Being able to see how both reacted to events and one another was a good storytelling choice here. I enjoyed The Opposite of Nothing and would be interested in the relationship of Callie and Tayber further in another installment.
March 21, 2014
Oh holy cow. I loved this book. Ms. Slade's writing was so beautiful and vivid, it sucked me in an wouldn't let go.
I LOVED the deep third point of view. And we get to hear from both Callie and Tayber. I loved the story and the way they connected. And I can't say anything because of spoilers but I loved how a certain plot point played out. I thought it would go a certain way and I was super happy with the way Ms. Slade took it.
Her style of writing is what I want to see more of in NA. Gorgeous prose and real characters. They weren't perfect looking or damaged beyond repair. They had flaws but both made every effort to overcome them and be independent.
Highly, highly recommend this read.
I LOVED the deep third point of view. And we get to hear from both Callie and Tayber. I loved the story and the way they connected. And I can't say anything because of spoilers but I loved how a certain plot point played out. I thought it would go a certain way and I was super happy with the way Ms. Slade took it.
Her style of writing is what I want to see more of in NA. Gorgeous prose and real characters. They weren't perfect looking or damaged beyond repair. They had flaws but both made every effort to overcome them and be independent.
Highly, highly recommend this read.
June 3, 2014
This was okay. It wasn't bad AT ALL. It was just a bit too "in your head" with too many words unsaid for me. Maybe what I'm trying to say is that it was a bit young. Still, I'm glad I read it. I'm glad things were resolved for the most part. I just feel there could have been so much more. That's about all I can say without giving the storyline away
April 29, 2014
“Sucks, doesn’t it? Realizing that what you want and what you need don’t always line up.”
Novellas have to really hit hard to make a good impression. The limited amount of time they have to hook the reader, and deliver an impressive, likable story line, is very slim. The Opposite of Nothing did deliver on these points...
Callie was basically what we all probably envision ourselves to have been throughout childhood - different. She never felt like she fit in with the "right" crowd, but was belittled and bullied when she went her own way. She had a negative family life, due to the bullying, and therefore became a closed off individual.
Tayber, however, was our A-typical bad boy, who isn't really a bad boy and is as insecure as the rest of us. He too had a troubling childhood, albeit worse off than Callie, and was shunned by the people he loved most. He therefore cuts himself off from serious commitment and doesn't really engage in long standing relationships.
The interesting concept came with the fact that Callie desperately loves Tayber. But how does one go from the "friend zone" to something more? How do you risk exposing yourself, your friendship and future, by professing your love for your best friend? More importantly, would you risk it?
Now I'm sure a lot of people have felt the same way as Callie, which is why I liked this novella. It takes unrequited love and spins it in a different stance; mixing it with almost forbidden love, personal acceptance and today's epidemic of online networking. How easy is it to hid behind an online profile? But, on the other hand, how easy is it to truly be yourself whilst hiding behind a computer screen?
The Opposite of Nothing was a fast paced ride that hit me with some pretty impressive truths. It made me think, and unlike others, I think that it was just the right length. It was steamy, lovable and interesting. I think it would have lost itself in the vast expanse of YA/NA novels out there - the novella makes it stand out; it leaves you pondering.
I received a free copy of this novella, from the author, in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinions or thoughts, and any expressed are that of my own.
Novellas have to really hit hard to make a good impression. The limited amount of time they have to hook the reader, and deliver an impressive, likable story line, is very slim. The Opposite of Nothing did deliver on these points...
Callie was basically what we all probably envision ourselves to have been throughout childhood - different. She never felt like she fit in with the "right" crowd, but was belittled and bullied when she went her own way. She had a negative family life, due to the bullying, and therefore became a closed off individual.
Tayber, however, was our A-typical bad boy, who isn't really a bad boy and is as insecure as the rest of us. He too had a troubling childhood, albeit worse off than Callie, and was shunned by the people he loved most. He therefore cuts himself off from serious commitment and doesn't really engage in long standing relationships.
The interesting concept came with the fact that Callie desperately loves Tayber. But how does one go from the "friend zone" to something more? How do you risk exposing yourself, your friendship and future, by professing your love for your best friend? More importantly, would you risk it?
Now I'm sure a lot of people have felt the same way as Callie, which is why I liked this novella. It takes unrequited love and spins it in a different stance; mixing it with almost forbidden love, personal acceptance and today's epidemic of online networking. How easy is it to hid behind an online profile? But, on the other hand, how easy is it to truly be yourself whilst hiding behind a computer screen?
The Opposite of Nothing was a fast paced ride that hit me with some pretty impressive truths. It made me think, and unlike others, I think that it was just the right length. It was steamy, lovable and interesting. I think it would have lost itself in the vast expanse of YA/NA novels out there - the novella makes it stand out; it leaves you pondering.
I received a free copy of this novella, from the author, in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinions or thoughts, and any expressed are that of my own.
February 9, 2017
** Received a Ebook copy From Author for an Honest review.**
I am a little late posting this review due to the fact that I let my TBR pile get so Big .I neglected or forgot about certain books I really should have read at the time I received them.
I'm sorry for the delay Shari Slade!!
Callie never had many friends growing up .She was teased and bullied most of her life. That is until she hand picked a college away from everyone who knows her to start anew .She's finally making a few friends and even finds a bestie she enjoys spending time with.
The only thing is he's a guy she can't date ,so she invents an alias and flirts with him online incognito.
Tayber has had to practically raise himself , he's finally starting to get on the right track, but once things get good something or someone always finds a way to screw things up.
He's a manwhore who is with a different girl all the time , but if he's friends with her ....she's untouchable .
Until he realizes he's falling for his best friend Callie .
Will Tayber break his rule of not Dating Friends or will their Budding Relationship be destroyed once heartbreaking secrets are revealed ??
I'm glad I finally read The Opposite of Nothing .Although a short read at 100 pages , this angsty , emotional New Adult Romance was packed with suspense and vulnerable longing for the one person you can't have .
I am a little late posting this review due to the fact that I let my TBR pile get so Big .I neglected or forgot about certain books I really should have read at the time I received them.
I'm sorry for the delay Shari Slade!!
Callie never had many friends growing up .She was teased and bullied most of her life. That is until she hand picked a college away from everyone who knows her to start anew .She's finally making a few friends and even finds a bestie she enjoys spending time with.
The only thing is he's a guy she can't date ,so she invents an alias and flirts with him online incognito.
Tayber has had to practically raise himself , he's finally starting to get on the right track, but once things get good something or someone always finds a way to screw things up.
He's a manwhore who is with a different girl all the time , but if he's friends with her ....she's untouchable .
Until he realizes he's falling for his best friend Callie .
Will Tayber break his rule of not Dating Friends or will their Budding Relationship be destroyed once heartbreaking secrets are revealed ??
I'm glad I finally read The Opposite of Nothing .Although a short read at 100 pages , this angsty , emotional New Adult Romance was packed with suspense and vulnerable longing for the one person you can't have .
April 7, 2014
Callie’s a sweet, shy girl who left her hometown to attend college where she wouldn’t be pegged the uncool recluse as before. Her secret crush on her guy friend, Tayber is very believable, even for these days, where the assumption is that most girls are fast, free and up front about their desires.
Callie and Tayber are great friends, but in truth, she’d longs for much more with him. He’s also been hurt, by family issues, and has closed himself off except for fast, commitment-free hookups. Callie’s found a way to get inside his fantasy world through, but it’s the most dishonest thing she’s ever done: she sets up an account as Sasha, a sex freak, and when Tayber goes for it, their back and forth messages get quite steamy. There are huge drawbacks: Callie finds herself terrified that she’ll slip up in real life and blurt out something to Tayber that only “Sasha” would know, and then he’ll discover who she really is.
I powered right through this novella by Shari Slade, and totally enjoyed it. Slade’s writing style and characterization is a cut above many of the novels I’ve recently read in the new adult and adult romance genre. Highly recommended, and I look forward to her next new adult read.
Callie and Tayber are great friends, but in truth, she’d longs for much more with him. He’s also been hurt, by family issues, and has closed himself off except for fast, commitment-free hookups. Callie’s found a way to get inside his fantasy world through, but it’s the most dishonest thing she’s ever done: she sets up an account as Sasha, a sex freak, and when Tayber goes for it, their back and forth messages get quite steamy. There are huge drawbacks: Callie finds herself terrified that she’ll slip up in real life and blurt out something to Tayber that only “Sasha” would know, and then he’ll discover who she really is.
I powered right through this novella by Shari Slade, and totally enjoyed it. Slade’s writing style and characterization is a cut above many of the novels I’ve recently read in the new adult and adult romance genre. Highly recommended, and I look forward to her next new adult read.
February 26, 2019
Lo vi en la estantería y me apeteió releerlo, al ser tan corto no lo dudé y me puse a ello.
Es más o menos lo que recordaba, no voy a decir que sea una historia inolvidable porque no es así... Se trata de la historia de Callie y Tayber y cómo su relación pasa de la amistad al amor.
Lo peor para mí es lo corto que es, la edición en papel actual no llega a las 200 páginas y la original (que es una edición un poco rara porque es más grande de lo habitual, tiene una letra pequeña y un interlineado estrecho), ni llega a las 100.
Es cierto que hay quien prefiere este tipo de relatos cortos porque los lees de una sentada y te puedes encontrar con historias más que decentes, pero yo prefiero más páginas y profundizar más en cosas necesarias que dejarlo a medias. Y por desgracia al ser tan corto es como que pasamos muy por encima de la mayoría de las cosas.
Pese a todo es de estas historias sencillas que dejan un buen sabor de boca porque transcurren con naturalidad y a un ritmo más que agradable.
Es más o menos lo que recordaba, no voy a decir que sea una historia inolvidable porque no es así... Se trata de la historia de Callie y Tayber y cómo su relación pasa de la amistad al amor.
Lo peor para mí es lo corto que es, la edición en papel actual no llega a las 200 páginas y la original (que es una edición un poco rara porque es más grande de lo habitual, tiene una letra pequeña y un interlineado estrecho), ni llega a las 100.
Es cierto que hay quien prefiere este tipo de relatos cortos porque los lees de una sentada y te puedes encontrar con historias más que decentes, pero yo prefiero más páginas y profundizar más en cosas necesarias que dejarlo a medias. Y por desgracia al ser tan corto es como que pasamos muy por encima de la mayoría de las cosas.
Pese a todo es de estas historias sencillas que dejan un buen sabor de boca porque transcurren con naturalidad y a un ritmo más que agradable.
March 29, 2014
I really, really enjoyed this book. Callie and Tayber's story was a great, light read with an authentic, true-to-life plot that can resonate with just about anyone, especially those who've been college-poor and those who've tried to sort out feelings for a close friend.
What I liked best about this story was the top notch writing. Ms. Slade's style mixes humor, wit, and emotion, with realistic dialogue and an overall fluid presentation. As as writer, I could take a few lesson from her, and I definitely look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
What I liked best about this story was the top notch writing. Ms. Slade's style mixes humor, wit, and emotion, with realistic dialogue and an overall fluid presentation. As as writer, I could take a few lesson from her, and I definitely look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
January 17, 2016
ugh! simplemente no pude con esto. *emojifrustradoaqui*
February 26, 2017
Me gustó, pero podría haber sido mejor. Siento que falto mucho desarrollo. Cómo llegaron a ser amigos? Se suponía que el era don Juan y todo, pero solo se habla al respecto no hay acciones.
July 4, 2019
La trama es realmente bonita y está llena de azúcar y arcoíris. Yo tengo momentos en los que necesito concretamente grandes dosis de azúcar y por lo tanto este libro mi sirve.
Calificaría a los dos personajes como "rotos", ella tiene mil problemas con su autoestima, y él arrastra problemas familiares y un pasado algo tormentoso. Desde un punto de vista objetivo falta más información sobre "este pasado" para que el lector pueda entender mejor la situación. Pero aun así, es aceptable.
Como Callie tiene problemas con su autoestima no se le ocurre mejor idea que crearse un perfil falso para hablar con Tayber. Él se siente atraído por Sasha, pero de alguna manera que no entiende también siente algo que tampoco sabe definir por Callie.
Si quieres aventurarte y leerte esta historia te la recomiendo. Pero, si tuviera que darle una nota tendría un 2/5, puesto que es un libro que está bien; pero tampoco es un libro que te atrapa o que necesitas leer y leer hasta acabártelo.
Calificaría a los dos personajes como "rotos", ella tiene mil problemas con su autoestima, y él arrastra problemas familiares y un pasado algo tormentoso. Desde un punto de vista objetivo falta más información sobre "este pasado" para que el lector pueda entender mejor la situación. Pero aun así, es aceptable.
Como Callie tiene problemas con su autoestima no se le ocurre mejor idea que crearse un perfil falso para hablar con Tayber. Él se siente atraído por Sasha, pero de alguna manera que no entiende también siente algo que tampoco sabe definir por Callie.
Si quieres aventurarte y leerte esta historia te la recomiendo. Pero, si tuviera que darle una nota tendría un 2/5, puesto que es un libro que está bien; pero tampoco es un libro que te atrapa o que necesitas leer y leer hasta acabártelo.
June 27, 2017
Opposite of Nothing was a terrific read right from the start. The words really transported me back to the college campus of my younger years. I loved Callie and Tayber. Their easy friendship was a delight to read, and I was really intrigued by their secrets and hidden feelings. Add "Sasha" to the mix, and I was hooked and eager to know how things would work out.
I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to read more from Shari Slade.
I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to read more from Shari Slade.
December 23, 2016
Me gusto mucho este libro corto, necesitaba algo romantico y este fue genial. Por mas que no fue muy largo, tuvo su contenido y su historia lo que lo mejoro.
Genial para una lectura corta, facil y rapida de romance
Genial para una lectura corta, facil y rapida de romance
April 2, 2020
I really wish Shari Slade was a more prolific writer, because I've been in love with her word play for a while now. This was milder than I tend to like my romance, but so sweet. Really, a good place to start if you're new to romance.
March 17, 2023
No puedo culpar la traducción que leí, porque a pesar de ser malísima, siento que la narración fue peor. La historia prometía, pero mal desarrollo, todo muy intenso y rápido. Sin contexto, personajes incoherentes. Y aunque solo esperaba pasar el rato fue una decepción total.
April 7, 2018
La historia no es mala, pero si parece incompleta.
Me quede con ganas de conocer mejor a los personajes.
Me quede con ganas de conocer mejor a los personajes.
July 17, 2023
this was cute but mmc annoyed me
October 1, 2024
Would've liked there to be more build up with the online messaging, rather than it just randomly showing up.
March 20, 2014
So, for anyone that follows Shari Slade on Twitter, you know there is much glitter and sparkle. I didn't see glitter in this book, but there was confetti within the first sentence! That started the awesomeness and it just kept going from there. This book was all about feelings and let me tell you, it gave me a lot of them. When I tried to start this review, all I could think about was how my shoulders were tingling and my chest felt tight through the whole story. Shari Slade has a delicious way with the emotional angst. Callie and Tayber are exquisitely tortured by their thoughts and feelings. Their journey to happily-ever-after doesn't involve pain or death; but insecurity, lack of trust, and plenty of unrequited lust.
Callie had a lot of trust issues; and along with being an introvert, that made her seem anxious and depressed most of the time. Ordinarily, I get too sad while reading depressed characters but Callie was able to open up to Tayber and she had a sort of optimistic, bright-eyed pessimism about her. Callie is so filled with wonder because Tayber pays attention to her and wants to be around her, but she'd really like to have more. So she creates an online persona to be a little sexy with him. She's so quiet and vulnerable that even online, she tends to get scared and shut down. Between her in-person persona and her on-line persona, Tayber was able to see all of who she was, even if that meant he thought he was interacting with two different people.
Tayber is more outgoing and has his pick of the college girls. But he's friends with Callie and in his mind, that's more sacred than hooking up. Because he didn't have a good home life, he tries to never want anything, but at the same time, he's sort-of narcissistic and feels like every decision someone makes is wrong if it negatively impacts him. I was glad to see him get over himself and learn to empathize. But even through the self-centeredness, he's wonderful and caring toward Callie.
Anyone who remembers what it's like to feel out of place will easily identify with these two and cheer for their relationship. This could have turned into a sad book with all the heavy feelings, but it's actually optimistic and hope-filled. Sort of a 'yes, people can be mean, but you are worthy and you can find a place to belong'. By the end of the book, both character have grown more emotionally intelligent – learning to trust people and accept that they're not the center of the universe.
There were times outside their relationship that I had trouble identifying with Callie and Tayber. I felt the getting-fall-down-drunk was a little gratuitous. I couldn't really be sure if these two were of age anyway. And seeing that I've never had a college party experience, I had trouble relating to the lure of drinking until you puke.
Also, it was hard for me to understand why neither of them thought about finding paid work before money got really tight. That probably comes from me working all through my college times, but it was hard to imagine letting yourself get to the point where you have nothing, before you start looking for a job.
But this wasn't really a find yourself story; not really a “coming of age” story like I might expect from the New Adult genre. We don't get a taste of what their goals are or even what degree they're pursuing. I look at this book as completely and totally a true-love story, which just happens to have characters in the New Adult age bracket. The sex scenes were hot and sexy, in line with what I'd expect from a modern contemporary, but not so abundant that you lose the emotional punch of these two discovering their love.
I won't lie, I really wanted more. I wanted to know more about them, more of their lives, more of what their plans were and how they were getting there. But I was also really satisfied with the story. They fit together wonderfully and you just knew how much they cared about each other. As an emotion-packed, grab-you-by-the-heart love story, this one is a must read.
I received a complementary ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
**This review is archived on my blog: The Theory of Lieto Fine
Callie had a lot of trust issues; and along with being an introvert, that made her seem anxious and depressed most of the time. Ordinarily, I get too sad while reading depressed characters but Callie was able to open up to Tayber and she had a sort of optimistic, bright-eyed pessimism about her. Callie is so filled with wonder because Tayber pays attention to her and wants to be around her, but she'd really like to have more. So she creates an online persona to be a little sexy with him. She's so quiet and vulnerable that even online, she tends to get scared and shut down. Between her in-person persona and her on-line persona, Tayber was able to see all of who she was, even if that meant he thought he was interacting with two different people.
Tayber is more outgoing and has his pick of the college girls. But he's friends with Callie and in his mind, that's more sacred than hooking up. Because he didn't have a good home life, he tries to never want anything, but at the same time, he's sort-of narcissistic and feels like every decision someone makes is wrong if it negatively impacts him. I was glad to see him get over himself and learn to empathize. But even through the self-centeredness, he's wonderful and caring toward Callie.
Anyone who remembers what it's like to feel out of place will easily identify with these two and cheer for their relationship. This could have turned into a sad book with all the heavy feelings, but it's actually optimistic and hope-filled. Sort of a 'yes, people can be mean, but you are worthy and you can find a place to belong'. By the end of the book, both character have grown more emotionally intelligent – learning to trust people and accept that they're not the center of the universe.
There were times outside their relationship that I had trouble identifying with Callie and Tayber. I felt the getting-fall-down-drunk was a little gratuitous. I couldn't really be sure if these two were of age anyway. And seeing that I've never had a college party experience, I had trouble relating to the lure of drinking until you puke.
Also, it was hard for me to understand why neither of them thought about finding paid work before money got really tight. That probably comes from me working all through my college times, but it was hard to imagine letting yourself get to the point where you have nothing, before you start looking for a job.
But this wasn't really a find yourself story; not really a “coming of age” story like I might expect from the New Adult genre. We don't get a taste of what their goals are or even what degree they're pursuing. I look at this book as completely and totally a true-love story, which just happens to have characters in the New Adult age bracket. The sex scenes were hot and sexy, in line with what I'd expect from a modern contemporary, but not so abundant that you lose the emotional punch of these two discovering their love.
I won't lie, I really wanted more. I wanted to know more about them, more of their lives, more of what their plans were and how they were getting there. But I was also really satisfied with the story. They fit together wonderfully and you just knew how much they cared about each other. As an emotion-packed, grab-you-by-the-heart love story, this one is a must read.
I received a complementary ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
**This review is archived on my blog: The Theory of Lieto Fine
March 27, 2014
ARC is provided by the author for an hones review
I don't know how to start my review because I don't really like this book actually...
Callie and Tayber have are friends. But actually Callie has feelings for him for so long because he is care about her. Apparently Callie isn't really good at socializing. She barely have friends. She has terrible past, being bullied and ignored by people in her school.
However, Tayber is that bad boy that often hooking up with random girls and never have stable girlfriend. And for him Callie is only a friend.
Callie wants to know about him more, so she made a chatting account with fake identity, as Sasha. They are cyber fuck-buddy.
And then because Tayber has financial problem, he moved-in with Callie in her apartment. The two of them can't resist the atmosphere between them and they had sex for the first time. The real sex. Not only a cyber-fuck like they always do.
Tayber kinda has a thing with Callie too. So he emails that Sasha that he can't chat with her anymore because he is now seeing Callie.
Callie felt bad and she thought she should tell him the truth.
After the confession, Tayber was so angry because he felt betrayed by Callie for lying to him. He moved-out. But in the end they made up again.
I felt so bored in the first 20% of this book because it's written in third person POV. I don't really like it. it's hard for me to get 'the feeling' of this story. And to be honest the story is kinda confusing to me.
The characters are good though. I like Callie, she is not annoying. And Tayber is hot, indeed. At least the two of them that made me keep reading this book till the end.I was thinking to stop reading it actually LOL
I don't know how to start my review because I don't really like this book actually...
Callie and Tayber have are friends. But actually Callie has feelings for him for so long because he is care about her. Apparently Callie isn't really good at socializing. She barely have friends. She has terrible past, being bullied and ignored by people in her school.
However, Tayber is that bad boy that often hooking up with random girls and never have stable girlfriend. And for him Callie is only a friend.
Callie wants to know about him more, so she made a chatting account with fake identity, as Sasha. They are cyber fuck-buddy.
And then because Tayber has financial problem, he moved-in with Callie in her apartment. The two of them can't resist the atmosphere between them and they had sex for the first time. The real sex. Not only a cyber-fuck like they always do.
Tayber kinda has a thing with Callie too. So he emails that Sasha that he can't chat with her anymore because he is now seeing Callie.
Callie felt bad and she thought she should tell him the truth.
After the confession, Tayber was so angry because he felt betrayed by Callie for lying to him. He moved-out. But in the end they made up again.
I felt so bored in the first 20% of this book because it's written in third person POV. I don't really like it. it's hard for me to get 'the feeling' of this story. And to be honest the story is kinda confusing to me.
The characters are good though. I like Callie, she is not annoying. And Tayber is hot, indeed. At least the two of them that made me keep reading this book till the end.
March 22, 2014
I loved this novella. I just think it would've been better explored as a longer piece of work. It can only be a good thing if the reader is left wanting more, I guess.
I want to hug Callie tightly. Her longing for her friend Tayber was so palpable, I almost felt her desire radiating right out my Kindle. I'm not sure what's up with her , though—there might be some history there? Tayber is a little more fleshed out. He's such a cool, genuinely caring guy. That scene with his brother made me go, "Awwww." I'm glad the brother served a bigger purpose than being just another part of Tayber's angsty past.
One wants everything, while the other wants nothing. Or so we're led to believe it goes. At any rate, Tayber and Callie's relationship—friendship—is genuine. Here are two people who needed, and found in each other, someone to share a deeper connection with, something that transcends the shallow, the purely physical. Which is why I understand Tayber's sense of betrayal when Callie admitted her deception. Still…Tayber may not like it, but I did. Kind of. What came of it at first, anyway. Sorry, Tayber, but those chat sessions with Callie's online persona was hot.
Slade's writing is a wonder to read. The dialogue is great, natural. There are times when the narrative becomes too flowery at the beginning, but I think that's just part of Callie's overflowing passion for Tayber. She was bursting with it so much, it felt like the whole universe was bursting right along with her. You know how love makes a poet of some people? Like that.
The Opposite of Nothing is a well-written novella. Sweet and achy and passionate and genuine. I look forward to reading more from Slade.
I want to hug Callie tightly. Her longing for her friend Tayber was so palpable, I almost felt her desire radiating right out my Kindle. I'm not sure what's up with her , though—there might be some history there? Tayber is a little more fleshed out. He's such a cool, genuinely caring guy. That scene with his brother made me go, "Awwww." I'm glad the brother served a bigger purpose than being just another part of Tayber's angsty past.
One wants everything, while the other wants nothing. Or so we're led to believe it goes. At any rate, Tayber and Callie's relationship—friendship—is genuine. Here are two people who needed, and found in each other, someone to share a deeper connection with, something that transcends the shallow, the purely physical. Which is why I understand Tayber's sense of betrayal when Callie admitted her deception. Still…Tayber may not like it, but I did. Kind of. What came of it at first, anyway. Sorry, Tayber, but those chat sessions with Callie's online persona was hot.
Slade's writing is a wonder to read. The dialogue is great, natural. There are times when the narrative becomes too flowery at the beginning, but I think that's just part of Callie's overflowing passion for Tayber. She was bursting with it so much, it felt like the whole universe was bursting right along with her. You know how love makes a poet of some people? Like that.
The Opposite of Nothing is a well-written novella. Sweet and achy and passionate and genuine. I look forward to reading more from Slade.
May 10, 2014
Full Review @http://www.abookishescape.com/2014/05...
This story has potential for a lot more. There where a few things I would’ve done differently but it was very enjoyable and a quick read. This is something I recommend to those that enjoy a sweet and sexy read. Definitely a bit more brazen than what I’m used to regarding NA but sexy and fun none the less. I’m hoping and looking forward to seeing more from these cute characters!
My Rating
3.0 Movie, Rain, Instant Message, Crate, Cookies, Futon, Pink Lace, DJ, Brother, Soothing Love, Secrets, Truths, Accepting Love filled stars! For a super fun lazy day read check out The Opposite of Nothing!
This story has potential for a lot more. There where a few things I would’ve done differently but it was very enjoyable and a quick read. This is something I recommend to those that enjoy a sweet and sexy read. Definitely a bit more brazen than what I’m used to regarding NA but sexy and fun none the less. I’m hoping and looking forward to seeing more from these cute characters!
My Rating
3.0 Movie, Rain, Instant Message, Crate, Cookies, Futon, Pink Lace, DJ, Brother, Soothing Love, Secrets, Truths, Accepting Love filled stars! For a super fun lazy day read check out The Opposite of Nothing!
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