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Anywhere Else
"This book relies on the classic love triangle for much of its storyline but it is well done. To me, the book was like comfort food — it uses your favorite ingredients and satisfies your craving." - Book Reviewer Flash Mama.
"I had many moments where I would just smile or laugh over something that was said, and I really didn’t want the book to end."- JennyLou's Book Reviews.
Leena's life has been anything but perfect. An alcoholic mother creates an unbearable home life and her longtime boyfriend, Chase, dumps her at her most vulnerable moment. Worse yet, Leena is forced to live in her truck. Leena's mantra is to make it through the summer, just long enough for college to start.
In steps Leena's best friend, Sydney, helping her start the next chapter of her life. After finding an apartment that's cheap, not slummy for them to share together, Leena finds her life in an upswing.
But now, two love interests step into the picture. Brent, the sexy wildcard who has secrets that fall too close to home for Leena. And Garrett, her ex-boyfriend's best friend. He's handsome, kind, and loyal and could be the one she never knew she wanted.
Who will Leena choose to start her new chapter with?
"I had many moments where I would just smile or laugh over something that was said, and I really didn’t want the book to end."- JennyLou's Book Reviews.
Leena's life has been anything but perfect. An alcoholic mother creates an unbearable home life and her longtime boyfriend, Chase, dumps her at her most vulnerable moment. Worse yet, Leena is forced to live in her truck. Leena's mantra is to make it through the summer, just long enough for college to start.
In steps Leena's best friend, Sydney, helping her start the next chapter of her life. After finding an apartment that's cheap, not slummy for them to share together, Leena finds her life in an upswing.
But now, two love interests step into the picture. Brent, the sexy wildcard who has secrets that fall too close to home for Leena. And Garrett, her ex-boyfriend's best friend. He's handsome, kind, and loyal and could be the one she never knew she wanted.
Who will Leena choose to start her new chapter with?
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About the author
Kayla Hicks
32 books54 followersHicks has been building her multi-genre career since 2014, her first novel being the young adult dystopian book, Kale Stone: An Outliers Tale. Since then, Hicks has gone on to publish several other works in the genres of YA, Superhero Fiction, and Children's books.
In addition to this growing collection of work, Hicks has made several appearances:
- The Lancaster Native Plant and Wildlife Festival to present her children's book Dandelion
- Lititz Public Library Indie Author Event to present all of her works to readers
- Adamstown Elementary Schools Read Across America Day to present Dandelion to 100 students
- U-Gro Learning Center to share Dandelion with young readers
- The Writing Community Chat Show
And has been featured in Lancaster Online for both The Backup Superhero and Today I'm Not Laurel.
Hicks enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and daughter and reading in her spare time.
Reviews:
"Towards the end, during one of their times hanging, I was in tears. I'm such a sap when the right mood and words hit. This is one book that just fit at the right time and found me in the right mood. Anywhere Else is exactly what I needed and I can't recommend this one enough for those who just want something sweet and uplifting."- Bookn.All.Night for Anywhere Else
"It's a short work. In fact, if you're a fast reader like myself, you'll have this done in a couple of hours, but don't let that fool you. It's an wonderful read with interesting characters that you want to know more about as well as the world they live in and you're definitely left wanting to know what happens next!"- Steve Vimes for The Backup Superhero
"This is an incredibly powerful and moving read. From the first few pages this is emotionally charged and deals with some difficult issues for a young character. Sadi is such a strong female lead, and Parker was a brilliant bestie too. I felt for both of these characters from the off. Some surprising events and a moving outcome."- Bobs and Books Blog for Secrets They Never Told
"What a lovely colourful book. Kayla's art work pops with colour and cheer, this beautiful book, with its tale of acceptance and how everyone (every flower) is different, and is a must for all children to have on their bookshelves."- Chris Horn for Dandelion
In addition to this growing collection of work, Hicks has made several appearances:
- The Lancaster Native Plant and Wildlife Festival to present her children's book Dandelion
- Lititz Public Library Indie Author Event to present all of her works to readers
- Adamstown Elementary Schools Read Across America Day to present Dandelion to 100 students
- U-Gro Learning Center to share Dandelion with young readers
- The Writing Community Chat Show
And has been featured in Lancaster Online for both The Backup Superhero and Today I'm Not Laurel.
Hicks enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and daughter and reading in her spare time.
Reviews:
"Towards the end, during one of their times hanging, I was in tears. I'm such a sap when the right mood and words hit. This is one book that just fit at the right time and found me in the right mood. Anywhere Else is exactly what I needed and I can't recommend this one enough for those who just want something sweet and uplifting."- Bookn.All.Night for Anywhere Else
"It's a short work. In fact, if you're a fast reader like myself, you'll have this done in a couple of hours, but don't let that fool you. It's an wonderful read with interesting characters that you want to know more about as well as the world they live in and you're definitely left wanting to know what happens next!"- Steve Vimes for The Backup Superhero
"This is an incredibly powerful and moving read. From the first few pages this is emotionally charged and deals with some difficult issues for a young character. Sadi is such a strong female lead, and Parker was a brilliant bestie too. I felt for both of these characters from the off. Some surprising events and a moving outcome."- Bobs and Books Blog for Secrets They Never Told
"What a lovely colourful book. Kayla's art work pops with colour and cheer, this beautiful book, with its tale of acceptance and how everyone (every flower) is different, and is a must for all children to have on their bookshelves."- Chris Horn for Dandelion
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 12, 2022
Oh my teenage heart. 💗💗
When I was first contacted by the author to read and review Anywhere Else, I was a bit skeptical. I don't usually enjoy contemporary romance. It's getting closer to Fall, when I start reading more of these and step out of my comfort zone. One cannot always read horror, thrillers and fantasy 😂
I am so glad I decided to accept. This is such a sweet, heartbreaking and hopeful story. To me, it felt more like a coming of age as Leena deals with so many obstacles and begins to believe in herself. She is constantly smacked with challenge after challenge, not to mention an extremely toxic and volatile mother-daughter interaction. Throughout it all, however, she stays strong and steadfast. My heart broke so many times for her.
The romance in this one is well done. From the get-go, I was Team Garrett 😂. Towards the end, during one of their times hanging, I was in tears. I'm such a sap when the right mood and words hit. This is one book that just fit at the right time and found me in the right mood. Anywhere Else is exactly what I needed and I can't recommend this one enough for those who just want something sweet and uplifting.
I sincerely appreciate being given the chance to read this one. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
When I was first contacted by the author to read and review Anywhere Else, I was a bit skeptical. I don't usually enjoy contemporary romance. It's getting closer to Fall, when I start reading more of these and step out of my comfort zone. One cannot always read horror, thrillers and fantasy 😂
I am so glad I decided to accept. This is such a sweet, heartbreaking and hopeful story. To me, it felt more like a coming of age as Leena deals with so many obstacles and begins to believe in herself. She is constantly smacked with challenge after challenge, not to mention an extremely toxic and volatile mother-daughter interaction. Throughout it all, however, she stays strong and steadfast. My heart broke so many times for her.
The romance in this one is well done. From the get-go, I was Team Garrett 😂. Towards the end, during one of their times hanging, I was in tears. I'm such a sap when the right mood and words hit. This is one book that just fit at the right time and found me in the right mood. Anywhere Else is exactly what I needed and I can't recommend this one enough for those who just want something sweet and uplifting.
I sincerely appreciate being given the chance to read this one. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
October 19, 2021
I really enjoyed this book and I got through it quite quickly once I sat down and started it.
Leena is a kind, caring, hardworking and loyal 18 year old who’s relationship with her best friend Sydney will leave your heart warmed and envious of the bond they share. Poor Leena doesn’t have an easy life, she has to deal with her abusive alcoholic mum and her boyfriend, Chase, just broke up with her completely out of the blue.
Sydney swoops in and saves the day, because she’s amazing, and helps Leena get her life back on track as they get their own place together. However, there’s still one issue for poor Leena to work through, and that is her love triangle situation. Does she choose Brent or Garrett? Or should she not choose either of them as both seem to come with some skeletons in their closets? I’ll leave that for you to find out when you read the book, no spoilers here!
This book was well written and flowed nicely from start to finish. There were numerous times that I wanted to get into those pages and try to smack some sense into Leena’s mum, but the hardest part was not being able to give Leena a big cuddle and a shoulder to cry on. She’s been through so much in her short 18 years of life and I couldn’t help but want to sit her down and tell her that all of the horrible things her mum said about her weren’t true, and she’s a wonderful human with so much love to give the world.
As much as this book is about Leena and her romances (it’s marketed as a YA romance), for me the bigger storyline for me was her friendship with Sydney. Sydney is an absolute champion and I’m so happy to have found one of my own. They share such an amazing bond, and you can tell that they deeply cared for each other and would always have their backs. I truly hope everyone in their life experiences a bond like Leena and Sydney’s, it is truly magical.
TW: alcoholism and abuse.
Thank you so much to Kayla for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, you absolutely smashed this, I already want to reread it.
Leena is a kind, caring, hardworking and loyal 18 year old who’s relationship with her best friend Sydney will leave your heart warmed and envious of the bond they share. Poor Leena doesn’t have an easy life, she has to deal with her abusive alcoholic mum and her boyfriend, Chase, just broke up with her completely out of the blue.
Sydney swoops in and saves the day, because she’s amazing, and helps Leena get her life back on track as they get their own place together. However, there’s still one issue for poor Leena to work through, and that is her love triangle situation. Does she choose Brent or Garrett? Or should she not choose either of them as both seem to come with some skeletons in their closets? I’ll leave that for you to find out when you read the book, no spoilers here!
This book was well written and flowed nicely from start to finish. There were numerous times that I wanted to get into those pages and try to smack some sense into Leena’s mum, but the hardest part was not being able to give Leena a big cuddle and a shoulder to cry on. She’s been through so much in her short 18 years of life and I couldn’t help but want to sit her down and tell her that all of the horrible things her mum said about her weren’t true, and she’s a wonderful human with so much love to give the world.
As much as this book is about Leena and her romances (it’s marketed as a YA romance), for me the bigger storyline for me was her friendship with Sydney. Sydney is an absolute champion and I’m so happy to have found one of my own. They share such an amazing bond, and you can tell that they deeply cared for each other and would always have their backs. I truly hope everyone in their life experiences a bond like Leena and Sydney’s, it is truly magical.
TW: alcoholism and abuse.
Thank you so much to Kayla for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, you absolutely smashed this, I already want to reread it.
September 24, 2021
⭐️ 4 ⭐️
Anywhere Else is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
This YA/Romance is well-written and features a cast of well-rounded, relatable characters.
Told from the perspective of Leena: a lovely, hardworking, determined 18-year-old, who lives with her selfish, uncaring, alcoholic mother; the difficult subject matter is handled with great insight and sensitivity.
I particularly enjoyed the heartwarming relationship Leena shares with her best friend Sydney. The complicated love triangle Leena finds herself in really tugged at my heartstrings too.
Anywhere Else is an endearing, uplifting read.
A solid four stars from me.
Many thanks to Kayla Hicks for the eARC in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Anywhere Else is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
This YA/Romance is well-written and features a cast of well-rounded, relatable characters.
Told from the perspective of Leena: a lovely, hardworking, determined 18-year-old, who lives with her selfish, uncaring, alcoholic mother; the difficult subject matter is handled with great insight and sensitivity.
I particularly enjoyed the heartwarming relationship Leena shares with her best friend Sydney. The complicated love triangle Leena finds herself in really tugged at my heartstrings too.
Anywhere Else is an endearing, uplifting read.
A solid four stars from me.
Many thanks to Kayla Hicks for the eARC in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
September 5, 2022
This review was originally posted at https://bit.ly/3TIOg51.
Leena has long had to deal with her mother's outbursts and mood swings, but when she tells her to get out of the house where she pays rent Leena begins to seek out other options. Afterall, she works two jobs, finally has her own vehicle, and just graduated high school. When she breaches the subject of moving in together with her boyfriend it backfires, but this may be a blessing in disguise. Now there are other opportunities opening around her and for once Leena is positive about her future. Can Leena get away from her mother and maybe find the right love interest?
I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. There is a lot of verbal and mental abusive in this book suffered at the hands of a parent. Unfortunately, this is something that happens all too often and I wish I could say I don't know what this is like. Women like Leena's mom are a disgrace and one of the many reasons I have not spoken to my own in almost 8 years. Moving on from toxic individuals is a freeing experience, and while the details can be stressful all the other weights that are lifted are worth it. Life becomes much better when you aren't walking on eggshells and hating everything about yourself.
The author does a great job of capturing what it is like to live with both an alcoholic as well as an abusive parent. The book is realistic and will have you rooting for Leena as she finally begins her life. Garret was probably my favorite of the males in this book. While just friends he was a pillar of support during a difficult time. Having someone who is always there for you is a wonderful feeling and one I am lucky to have in my own best friends. While Garret was my favored male my favorite character was Sydney. While, surprisingly, not the red head in this book she was full of energy and very supportive. I hope everything works out for her with Reese.
I don't have a single complaint about this book and hope to read more from this author in the future. Just a warning, if you have been through some of these things it will make you a bit sad at times. Hating that Leena has to go through these things while remembering what it is like to deal with them firsthand. Side note. I hope you love Betty as much as I did in this book. While mine is not the same type I love my Aurora who when I got her also had a lot of problems. But, it is part of the charm.
Leena has long had to deal with her mother's outbursts and mood swings, but when she tells her to get out of the house where she pays rent Leena begins to seek out other options. Afterall, she works two jobs, finally has her own vehicle, and just graduated high school. When she breaches the subject of moving in together with her boyfriend it backfires, but this may be a blessing in disguise. Now there are other opportunities opening around her and for once Leena is positive about her future. Can Leena get away from her mother and maybe find the right love interest?
I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. There is a lot of verbal and mental abusive in this book suffered at the hands of a parent. Unfortunately, this is something that happens all too often and I wish I could say I don't know what this is like. Women like Leena's mom are a disgrace and one of the many reasons I have not spoken to my own in almost 8 years. Moving on from toxic individuals is a freeing experience, and while the details can be stressful all the other weights that are lifted are worth it. Life becomes much better when you aren't walking on eggshells and hating everything about yourself.
The author does a great job of capturing what it is like to live with both an alcoholic as well as an abusive parent. The book is realistic and will have you rooting for Leena as she finally begins her life. Garret was probably my favorite of the males in this book. While just friends he was a pillar of support during a difficult time. Having someone who is always there for you is a wonderful feeling and one I am lucky to have in my own best friends. While Garret was my favored male my favorite character was Sydney. While, surprisingly, not the red head in this book she was full of energy and very supportive. I hope everything works out for her with Reese.
I don't have a single complaint about this book and hope to read more from this author in the future. Just a warning, if you have been through some of these things it will make you a bit sad at times. Hating that Leena has to go through these things while remembering what it is like to deal with them firsthand. Side note. I hope you love Betty as much as I did in this book. While mine is not the same type I love my Aurora who when I got her also had a lot of problems. But, it is part of the charm.
June 9, 2022
ANYWHERE ELSE is a Teen & Adult Contemporary Romance by Kayla Hicks. She is a new-to-me author. I liked her writing style & character development.
Leena's life at 18 was not going very well. All her life, as far back as she can remember, her mother has treated her awful. Her mom is an alcoholic & even when she is sober is nasty to Leena. But now that Leena is working two jobs, to save money for college, her mother's demands have become more difficult to stand. Even though she pays rent to her mom, she finds herself kicked out of the house & needs to find a safe place to sleep. She even sometimes sleeps in her old truck. Not everybody has a wonderful mother & this is not even close to the mean woman that Leena's mom has always been.
Leena has a longtime boyfriend named Chase. Lately he has been acting distant. Leena thinks since she can't afford an apartment alone, maybe she & Chase could move in with each other. They would be able to spend more time together, too! Chase's answer was, “I think we should break up.” Leena is devastated & hurt. Luckily, she has a best friend in Sydney who does want to share an apartment with her. Chase's best friend Garret is mad with him that he would treat a nice, beautiful girl like Leena so callous. So he offers his own friendship to her. He is more interested in her than “just” friendship, but knows she needs time to get over Chase. To make things a little more complicated, Leena meets a guy named Brent, who fate seems destined to bring them together. She is so out of her comfort zone with plans to have dinner with Garrett & a Saturday night date with Brent. Out of the two men in her life, who will she end up choosing?
Leena's life at 18 was not going very well. All her life, as far back as she can remember, her mother has treated her awful. Her mom is an alcoholic & even when she is sober is nasty to Leena. But now that Leena is working two jobs, to save money for college, her mother's demands have become more difficult to stand. Even though she pays rent to her mom, she finds herself kicked out of the house & needs to find a safe place to sleep. She even sometimes sleeps in her old truck. Not everybody has a wonderful mother & this is not even close to the mean woman that Leena's mom has always been.
Leena has a longtime boyfriend named Chase. Lately he has been acting distant. Leena thinks since she can't afford an apartment alone, maybe she & Chase could move in with each other. They would be able to spend more time together, too! Chase's answer was, “I think we should break up.” Leena is devastated & hurt. Luckily, she has a best friend in Sydney who does want to share an apartment with her. Chase's best friend Garret is mad with him that he would treat a nice, beautiful girl like Leena so callous. So he offers his own friendship to her. He is more interested in her than “just” friendship, but knows she needs time to get over Chase. To make things a little more complicated, Leena meets a guy named Brent, who fate seems destined to bring them together. She is so out of her comfort zone with plans to have dinner with Garrett & a Saturday night date with Brent. Out of the two men in her life, who will she end up choosing?
October 1, 2021
5 Cranky Stars
Leena’s life is at a crossroads, does she stay with her abusive alcoholic mother or does she strike out on her own? After a few devastating fights with her mom and an out of nowhere breakup with boyfriend Chase, Leena has to make several difficult decisions. Luckily enough our heroine has a guardian angel in her best friend Sydney.
OMG I could so relate to Leena. The parts with the abusive mom hit home for me. Leena is so much more than the hateful words her momma spews at her. There were moments in this story where I had to briefly pause and gather myself. I have never wanted to hug a character so bad in my life. There are gloriously happy moments that just made me smile. Leena got her groove back. There are two deliciously hot men waiting to make her happy. First up is Garrett, her ex-boyfriend’s best friend, he just seems too good to be true. And then there is Brent, a hottie who seems to be too real. One has secrets that could destroy Leena’s chances at a happily ever after. Who will she choose once all the secrets have been revealed?
I loved this story. It did not gloss over the bad and the ugly of dealing with an alcoholic parent. I found it hard to put the story down, I devoured it in one night. It was well written, and such a beautiful story. I will recommend this story to others.
Leena’s life is at a crossroads, does she stay with her abusive alcoholic mother or does she strike out on her own? After a few devastating fights with her mom and an out of nowhere breakup with boyfriend Chase, Leena has to make several difficult decisions. Luckily enough our heroine has a guardian angel in her best friend Sydney.
OMG I could so relate to Leena. The parts with the abusive mom hit home for me. Leena is so much more than the hateful words her momma spews at her. There were moments in this story where I had to briefly pause and gather myself. I have never wanted to hug a character so bad in my life. There are gloriously happy moments that just made me smile. Leena got her groove back. There are two deliciously hot men waiting to make her happy. First up is Garrett, her ex-boyfriend’s best friend, he just seems too good to be true. And then there is Brent, a hottie who seems to be too real. One has secrets that could destroy Leena’s chances at a happily ever after. Who will she choose once all the secrets have been revealed?
I loved this story. It did not gloss over the bad and the ugly of dealing with an alcoholic parent. I found it hard to put the story down, I devoured it in one night. It was well written, and such a beautiful story. I will recommend this story to others.
September 16, 2021
I received a gifted ARC copy of ‘Anywhere Else’ by Kayla Hicks in return for my honest review. I read the description of the book and thought this would be a great book, and I wasn’t wrong.
This book is narrated by the main character Leena, who is an eighteen-year-old young woman with a hard upbringing.
Leena works two jobs to make ends meet and with the relationship with her mother under strain, her work colleague Sydney comes up with the plan for their own place.
Once in their own place, Leena can work on living the life she wants for herself.
With her life starting to take shape, she works through her past and she comes across two love interests.
Which one will she choose?
I loved this uplifting book, it not only has romance, which is always a winner, but it has such a relatable main character.
I felt every emotion Leena felt including anger, heartbreak, love, and sadness. The strength she gains when she moves away from her mother is inspiring and her friendship with Sydney is lovely to read about.
I had many moments where I would just smile or laugh over something that was said, and I really didn’t want the book to end.
There is so much more I want to write about, but I don’t put any spoilers in my reviews so I will leave it there.
Overall, an uplifting, romantic novel with plenty to make you smile and laugh.
This book is narrated by the main character Leena, who is an eighteen-year-old young woman with a hard upbringing.
Leena works two jobs to make ends meet and with the relationship with her mother under strain, her work colleague Sydney comes up with the plan for their own place.
Once in their own place, Leena can work on living the life she wants for herself.
With her life starting to take shape, she works through her past and she comes across two love interests.
Which one will she choose?
I loved this uplifting book, it not only has romance, which is always a winner, but it has such a relatable main character.
I felt every emotion Leena felt including anger, heartbreak, love, and sadness. The strength she gains when she moves away from her mother is inspiring and her friendship with Sydney is lovely to read about.
I had many moments where I would just smile or laugh over something that was said, and I really didn’t want the book to end.
There is so much more I want to write about, but I don’t put any spoilers in my reviews so I will leave it there.
Overall, an uplifting, romantic novel with plenty to make you smile and laugh.
October 2, 2021
The thing about the book that surprised me was how much I enjoyed it!
Don’t get me wrong, the books by Kayla Hicks are always great, I’ve read several of hers now and they are excellent, fun reads, but Anywhere Else is a romance novel and I don’t read romance. Ever!
However, after reading her Back-Up Superhero books, I gave this a try and was surprised at just how much I enjoyed it! The characters are believable, the situations they are all in worked and I found myself really hoping for Leena to find the love she wants and rooting for the one she ends up with as well!
And now I like romance books! My whole world view has been shaken!
Definitely a recommended read for any romance lover and well worth a shot if you want to try something different to your normal stuff!
Don’t get me wrong, the books by Kayla Hicks are always great, I’ve read several of hers now and they are excellent, fun reads, but Anywhere Else is a romance novel and I don’t read romance. Ever!
However, after reading her Back-Up Superhero books, I gave this a try and was surprised at just how much I enjoyed it! The characters are believable, the situations they are all in worked and I found myself really hoping for Leena to find the love she wants and rooting for the one she ends up with as well!
And now I like romance books! My whole world view has been shaken!
Definitely a recommended read for any romance lover and well worth a shot if you want to try something different to your normal stuff!
July 1, 2022
3.5, maybe 3.75
I enjoyed this story. I liked the idea of the list. I liked the friends to more. I didn't care much for the love triangle and there were one or two storyline that felt a little open ended.
I look forward to reading what Ms Hicks writes in the future!
- I like the orange cover
- Well. This book is sad.
- Chase. I don't know about you
- language
- "Reading was my one guilty pleasure." - never guilty, just pleasure
- Brent is... brazen? Is that the word I mean?
- they live in the land of trucks apparently
- the list idea is very cute
- I'm finding this a little confusing
- oh poor Brent
- Garrett is a good guy. I like that.
Thank you to @kaylarickswrites for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this story. I liked the idea of the list. I liked the friends to more. I didn't care much for the love triangle and there were one or two storyline that felt a little open ended.
I look forward to reading what Ms Hicks writes in the future!
- I like the orange cover
- Well. This book is sad.
- Chase. I don't know about you
- language
- "Reading was my one guilty pleasure." - never guilty, just pleasure
- Brent is... brazen? Is that the word I mean?
- they live in the land of trucks apparently
- the list idea is very cute
- I'm finding this a little confusing
- oh poor Brent
- Garrett is a good guy. I like that.
Thank you to @kaylarickswrites for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
September 12, 2021
Self-reliant Leena, a pick-up truck driving high school senior with an alcoholic mother, is the main character of this YA novel. Through this story, we see Leena navigate romantic relationships, figure out how to live on her own, and learn how to trust others.
I enjoyed reading Leena’s story. She is easy to connect with and you want to see where her journey goes.
This book relies on the classic love triangle for much of its storyline but it is well done. To me, the book was like comfort food -- it uses your favorite ingredients and satisfies your craving. It is not a life-changing book but it is charming and delivers on your expectations in a pleasing way.
I will be reading another book by this author. In fact, I have already purchased a copy of her novella, The Back-Up Superhero.
Thank you to the author Kayla Hicks for providing a free ARC of Anywhere Else in exchange for my honest review.
To read more of my book reviews, visit my blog, www.bookpicksandpics.com.
I enjoyed reading Leena’s story. She is easy to connect with and you want to see where her journey goes.
This book relies on the classic love triangle for much of its storyline but it is well done. To me, the book was like comfort food -- it uses your favorite ingredients and satisfies your craving. It is not a life-changing book but it is charming and delivers on your expectations in a pleasing way.
I will be reading another book by this author. In fact, I have already purchased a copy of her novella, The Back-Up Superhero.
Thank you to the author Kayla Hicks for providing a free ARC of Anywhere Else in exchange for my honest review.
To read more of my book reviews, visit my blog, www.bookpicksandpics.com.
September 25, 2021
I love this story! I think as readers when we start a book we are hoping it will pull us into its world and make us forget whatever is around us. Anywhere Else is that book. Whether you can relate to Leena or not the world building and character development in this book are top notch. I could not put this book down and wouldn't be disappointed if the author gives us more of these characters in a sequel!
September 22, 2021
I loved this book and got caught up in Leena’s struggle with her mom and her relationship with her boyfriend. The relationship between Leena and her best friend Sydney reminded me of the relationship I had with my closest girlfriend at that time in my life. Her boyfriend’s best friend was great and I loved his parents. Definitely a great read with a terrific ending.
September 24, 2021
A really lovely read. Leena is a great character and I love how the author isn't afraid to tackle some really difficult subject matters into this read, on top of the main story. Very relatable characters. So much is packed into this short read, its incredible the amount of emotions you get through. Love triangle is interesting, and keeps you guessing.
June 16, 2022
I would think a good book is defined by how many chapters a person reads in the first sitting. This books storyline was so engaging almost half of it was read the first time in. The main character has a story that would be relateable to some, and hope for the future that can be felt by many. A+ read.
December 3, 2024
A well-written, very cute but sometimes gut-wrenching coming-of-age-story about friendship, love, dysfunctional families, and the challenges of living and caring about people with alcoholism.
I very much enjoyed reading it and would love to see the story of Garret and Leena to get continued somewhen.
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Transparency info: Read via Kindle Unlimited.
I very much enjoyed reading it and would love to see the story of Garret and Leena to get continued somewhen.
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Transparency info: Read via Kindle Unlimited.
August 11, 2022
A cross between Melrose Place and Beverly Hills 90210
I absolutely love the story that evolved and between Leena and Sydney and their friendship.
The characters are well devised and I could see this as a series and a television series. The writer writes vivid scenes and powerful conversations.
All in all well done to Kayla Hicks for a powerful book.
I absolutely love the story that evolved and between Leena and Sydney and their friendship.
The characters are well devised and I could see this as a series and a television series. The writer writes vivid scenes and powerful conversations.
All in all well done to Kayla Hicks for a powerful book.
October 7, 2021
I enjoyed this story. Not your classic love triangle. So much depth to the main heroine. She was easy to relate to.
November 7, 2021
Loved this book. No-nonsense, heart-warming, sweet romance. This is one of those books you want to read on a night in curled up on the sofa sipping hot chocolate!
December 19, 2021
Anywhere Else is a coming-of-age book that deals with alcoholism and decisions a young girl makes as she struggles to plan for college. There is just enough romance to give the story spark and realism. This is a pleasant read.
June 3, 2022
Beautiful, romantic and well written
This is exactly the type of book I love! Focused on the characters and their journey as they fall in love, the depth of their emotions, thoughts and feelings.
It is written beautifully and was a book I couldn’t put down.
Leena is just 18 but has had a tough life at the hands of an alcoholic mother, her awful boyfriend isn’t helping matters as she gets ready for college.
She does however have an amazing best friend and someone waiting in the wings to declare his feelings. I might have swooned a lot at Garrett!
It was a lovely read and I am so, so glad I picked it up!
This is exactly the type of book I love! Focused on the characters and their journey as they fall in love, the depth of their emotions, thoughts and feelings.
It is written beautifully and was a book I couldn’t put down.
Leena is just 18 but has had a tough life at the hands of an alcoholic mother, her awful boyfriend isn’t helping matters as she gets ready for college.
She does however have an amazing best friend and someone waiting in the wings to declare his feelings. I might have swooned a lot at Garrett!
It was a lovely read and I am so, so glad I picked it up!
May 2, 2022
Anywhere Else is a young adult story that will appeal to people who enjoyed the long-running TV sitcom Seinfeld. This first-person tale is well-written and moves logically to its inevitable conclusion. I’m just not sure why I should have been interested.
Don’t get me wrong. Author Hicks develops her characters, and allows the reader to get inside a nineteen-year-old girl’s head as she deals with problems life throws at her. For a young woman facing similar problems moving into adulthood, Anywhere Else may just supply the right encouragement. Writing style and writing quality bring this tale to 4-stars.
Don’t get me wrong. Author Hicks develops her characters, and allows the reader to get inside a nineteen-year-old girl’s head as she deals with problems life throws at her. For a young woman facing similar problems moving into adulthood, Anywhere Else may just supply the right encouragement. Writing style and writing quality bring this tale to 4-stars.
April 20, 2022
Before I get into the review, I would like to say a massive thank you to the author for sending me an ARC digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Anywhere Else follows the protagonist, Leena, an eighteen year old who’s had a difficult childhood but is now starting to break away from that. As a reader we get to see her start her new life, navigating relationships and friendship along the way.
I really enjoyed the two relationships in this book. Although I did feel the person Leena would choose was a tad predictable, it was still a really enjoyable read and didn’t take anything away from the book. Both of the potential love interests were lovely and both had their fair share of moments with Leena.
Leena herself was a really great character. I really admired her strength as well as her drive and how hardworking she was. I think Leena’s struggles with money and figuring out what she wanted to do with her life were really relatable and helped me connect with her as a reader.
Leena’s friendship with Sydney was also lovely. I really enjoyed reading about how much the two looked out for each other, and the bond they shared. It was nice to see some great friendship in addition to the romance, and it made me love the book even more.
Of course, Anywhere Else also covered some serious topics. As already mentioned, Leena struggled with a difficult childhood and family situation, and watching her overcome that was very inspirational. Alcoholism was another key topic in this book, and I felt the author dealt with this in a sensitive and realistic way.
Overall, I would recommend this for anyone searching for a lovely romance with some great friendships. I would also recommend it to any fan of love triangles.
Anywhere Else follows the protagonist, Leena, an eighteen year old who’s had a difficult childhood but is now starting to break away from that. As a reader we get to see her start her new life, navigating relationships and friendship along the way.
I really enjoyed the two relationships in this book. Although I did feel the person Leena would choose was a tad predictable, it was still a really enjoyable read and didn’t take anything away from the book. Both of the potential love interests were lovely and both had their fair share of moments with Leena.
Leena herself was a really great character. I really admired her strength as well as her drive and how hardworking she was. I think Leena’s struggles with money and figuring out what she wanted to do with her life were really relatable and helped me connect with her as a reader.
Leena’s friendship with Sydney was also lovely. I really enjoyed reading about how much the two looked out for each other, and the bond they shared. It was nice to see some great friendship in addition to the romance, and it made me love the book even more.
Of course, Anywhere Else also covered some serious topics. As already mentioned, Leena struggled with a difficult childhood and family situation, and watching her overcome that was very inspirational. Alcoholism was another key topic in this book, and I felt the author dealt with this in a sensitive and realistic way.
Overall, I would recommend this for anyone searching for a lovely romance with some great friendships. I would also recommend it to any fan of love triangles.
December 2, 2024
This book follows Leena, as she deals with her horrible mother, and her boyfriend breaking up with her. She's hard-working and has two jobs to cover bills that her mum makes her pay, even though Leena's not in the house most of the time. She mostly spends time sleeping at other people's houses, or in her truck because her mum is an abusive alcoholic.
Her friend, Sydney, is there to support her, and they move in together, since Leena was already able to afford rent. Leena then gets stuck in a love triangle, she has to decide if she wants to be with Garrett or Brent.
I really enjoyed reading Anywhere Else, I loved the characters, especially Leena and Sydney. I loved their friendship and how they supported each other. The romance in it was sweet, and I loved trying to guess who she'd end up with. There are serious issues within the book, such as abuse, but there are also a lot of funny moments; there was a good balance of the two.
It was easy to read and well written, I liked the style. I'd give Anywhere Else 4 stars out of 5.
Her friend, Sydney, is there to support her, and they move in together, since Leena was already able to afford rent. Leena then gets stuck in a love triangle, she has to decide if she wants to be with Garrett or Brent.
I really enjoyed reading Anywhere Else, I loved the characters, especially Leena and Sydney. I loved their friendship and how they supported each other. The romance in it was sweet, and I loved trying to guess who she'd end up with. There are serious issues within the book, such as abuse, but there are also a lot of funny moments; there was a good balance of the two.
It was easy to read and well written, I liked the style. I'd give Anywhere Else 4 stars out of 5.
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