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Innocent
Will Moore has been Missy Jamison’s best friend for years, and until recently, she hadn’t considered going "there" with him for fear of losing the only relationship she trusts. But senior year is almost over and dating other people hasn’t worked out, not with Missy’s crazy home life constantly pushing her further into Will’s safer world, making her attraction to her BFF more difficult to ignore.
When a forgery incident at school lands Missy under house arrest and banned from spending time with Will, she’s unable to ignore her dysfunctional home life any longer. In a desperate attempt for self-preservation, Missy finds herself back with Will and this time things are different.
But the direct violation of her mother’s edict proves the perfect catalyst to push her pill-popping mother over the edge and Missy’s home life past the point of no return. Now her only chance for normalcy will require Missy to ask herself if staying silent for so many years was truly about protecting herself from her past, or more about protecting a mother who never protected her.
When a forgery incident at school lands Missy under house arrest and banned from spending time with Will, she’s unable to ignore her dysfunctional home life any longer. In a desperate attempt for self-preservation, Missy finds herself back with Will and this time things are different.
But the direct violation of her mother’s edict proves the perfect catalyst to push her pill-popping mother over the edge and Missy’s home life past the point of no return. Now her only chance for normalcy will require Missy to ask herself if staying silent for so many years was truly about protecting herself from her past, or more about protecting a mother who never protected her.
- GenresYoung AdultTeenRomance
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2014
5 people are currently reading
1461 people want to read
About the author
Callie James
3 books91 followersOnce an Oregon native, Callie now lives in the Southwest. She enjoys a variety of genres and is a huge fan of paranormal, horror, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, and just plain good writing. When she's not reading or writing, she works at a university and enjoys cooking and spending time with her two domestic house bunnies--Izzy and Remy.
To find out more about Callie, visit https://calliejamesbooks.com/.
To find out more about Callie, visit https://calliejamesbooks.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
February 25, 2016
A brave and potentially valuable story about toxic families, childhood sexual trauma, and searching for healing.
INNOCENT is a mature contemporary YA, bordering on New Adult in content and tone. The story is told entirely from the first-person past-tense point of view of seventeen-year-old Missy (who turns 18 partway through the book.)
Missy was at one time a strongly academic “rich girl”, but her grades have recently dropped and she’s taken to hanging out with the partying crowd. In part because that’s where her best friend Will can be found… and in part because she has a home-life that’s threatening to crush her. Her mother (a malignant narcissist) is controlling, obsessed with status, and demeaning at every turn. Missy’s older sister is more of a trapped fixture in the household than a sibling, and her lack of assertion or ambition leaves Missy feeling responsible for looking after her 3-year-old niece. To top it all off, the abuse Missy suffered throughout much of her childhood has left her mentally scarred and emotionally crippled. What she wants (and needs) is escape and a fresh start—but that would mean leaving the helpless niece she loves and the best friend she’s become so dependent on.
"My whole life felt like one giant in-between. In between the brainiacs and druggies. In between Missy-the-Sissy and smokin' hot. In between dangerously innocent and traumatically experienced. And worst of all, in between being Will's friend and girlfriend."
What I Liked:
James’ literary voice is well above par. The pacing is rapid and the prose is grippingly connective—on both an emotional and psychological level. The characterization is solid even in secondary characters, with a concerted effort toward flipping some of the more prevalent stereotypes. And while there are certainly elements of a best-friends-turned-lovers theme, the romance isn’t quite as central as the character growth depicted in Missy.
I loved that one of the most healthy of Missy’s relationships, arguably, was the one she shared with her therapist. Though the premise of them initially interacting was actually a case of her taking the blame for her sister, it was inspiring that she took the opportunity to open up on things that actually were inhibiting her functionality. And she is most definitely better off for the self-awareness and positive coping mechanisms her therapist offered.
For the most part, I also appreciated the overall respectful regard for sex.
"For people who really love each other, it has to be more than just sex."
"Get real," he said. "It's two people getting their freak on. That's it."
"Ew." I dropped back onto my pillow. "If that's really what you think, maybe you should consider you're doing it wrong."
This telling grasps the damaging reality of misuse so well, while subtly standing up to the cultural “norm” that habitually downplays its significance.
"Watching her roll her eyes a second time, I realized there was no way I'd ever turn out like her. Because despite what she or anyone else said, I knew sex had to be important. It had changed my life irrevocably by age three. For me, it was the most important thing in the world."
Abuse and its mental health repercussions are handled with the kind of raw honesty and constructive depth this reader WANTED to see but didn't in books like The Perks of Being A Wallflower or All The Bright Places. For that, I have to applaud the author. She didn’t take the easy way around trauma or throw around the heavy stuff as mere plot devices. There was clear intent to acknowledge realistic repercussions, as well as affirm and supply hope for further help and options in readers who may be struck very personally by this type of story.
What Didn’t Work For Me:
I regret to admit that this reader was never really sold on Will.
In retrospect, I was somewhat disappointed when he seemed more genuinely angry over Missy’s mother striking her for the first time ever than he is over the fact that the woman essentially spent YEARS facilitating Missy’s sexual abuse at the hands of one of her stepfathers. Surprisingly (at least to this reader) there was no sense of righteous indignation, desire to seek justice, or even a well-meaning half-formed suggestion of vengeance against the perpetrator.
After Missy finally confides in him about her brokenness and intimacy fears, Will simply conveys the fact that the abuse doesn’t change the way he feels about her. Though he seems happy to sleep with her regardless of her past, he doesn’t seem interested in taking steps to research what he could do to help her through her trust issues and sexual healing process. While his initial sexual restraint (toward Missy) is admirable, his constipation toward commitment and verbal affirmation of love wasn’t especially endearing. Granted, he clearly had his own emotional baggage (which Missy isn’t yet in any condition to help him work through). But while Missy grows significantly throughout the story, we don’t really get the sense that Will does likewise.
Also, for a great deal of the book, I actually forgot that Will was artistically gifted. That aspect of him came up at the very beginning and then reasserted itself toward the end, but didn’t feel quite threaded in with his talk/mindset for the majority of the story.
Content Note: This book does contain some strong triggers in regard to childhood sexual abuse, although the descriptions are more peripheral and non-graphic (and thankfully, the author is careful to include a wide array of support resources for readers to reference at the end of the book.) The use of coarse language is somewhat heavy, however realistic to the particular high school social “crowd” at the focus. There is a fairly graphic consensual sex scene, which seems almost presented as a form of sex-therapy—and in which multiple forms of contraception are discussed and blatantly utilized.
While this type of “issues” book may not be up everyone’s alley, it may prove cathartic to some. This author is a genuine talent and definitely one to watch.
INNOCENT is a mature contemporary YA, bordering on New Adult in content and tone. The story is told entirely from the first-person past-tense point of view of seventeen-year-old Missy (who turns 18 partway through the book.)
Missy was at one time a strongly academic “rich girl”, but her grades have recently dropped and she’s taken to hanging out with the partying crowd. In part because that’s where her best friend Will can be found… and in part because she has a home-life that’s threatening to crush her. Her mother (a malignant narcissist) is controlling, obsessed with status, and demeaning at every turn. Missy’s older sister is more of a trapped fixture in the household than a sibling, and her lack of assertion or ambition leaves Missy feeling responsible for looking after her 3-year-old niece. To top it all off, the abuse Missy suffered throughout much of her childhood has left her mentally scarred and emotionally crippled. What she wants (and needs) is escape and a fresh start—but that would mean leaving the helpless niece she loves and the best friend she’s become so dependent on.
"My whole life felt like one giant in-between. In between the brainiacs and druggies. In between Missy-the-Sissy and smokin' hot. In between dangerously innocent and traumatically experienced. And worst of all, in between being Will's friend and girlfriend."
What I Liked:
James’ literary voice is well above par. The pacing is rapid and the prose is grippingly connective—on both an emotional and psychological level. The characterization is solid even in secondary characters, with a concerted effort toward flipping some of the more prevalent stereotypes. And while there are certainly elements of a best-friends-turned-lovers theme, the romance isn’t quite as central as the character growth depicted in Missy.
I loved that one of the most healthy of Missy’s relationships, arguably, was the one she shared with her therapist. Though the premise of them initially interacting was actually a case of her taking the blame for her sister, it was inspiring that she took the opportunity to open up on things that actually were inhibiting her functionality. And she is most definitely better off for the self-awareness and positive coping mechanisms her therapist offered.
For the most part, I also appreciated the overall respectful regard for sex.
"For people who really love each other, it has to be more than just sex."
"Get real," he said. "It's two people getting their freak on. That's it."
"Ew." I dropped back onto my pillow. "If that's really what you think, maybe you should consider you're doing it wrong."
This telling grasps the damaging reality of misuse so well, while subtly standing up to the cultural “norm” that habitually downplays its significance.
"Watching her roll her eyes a second time, I realized there was no way I'd ever turn out like her. Because despite what she or anyone else said, I knew sex had to be important. It had changed my life irrevocably by age three. For me, it was the most important thing in the world."
Abuse and its mental health repercussions are handled with the kind of raw honesty and constructive depth this reader WANTED to see but didn't in books like The Perks of Being A Wallflower or All The Bright Places. For that, I have to applaud the author. She didn’t take the easy way around trauma or throw around the heavy stuff as mere plot devices. There was clear intent to acknowledge realistic repercussions, as well as affirm and supply hope for further help and options in readers who may be struck very personally by this type of story.
What Didn’t Work For Me:
I regret to admit that this reader was never really sold on Will.
In retrospect, I was somewhat disappointed when he seemed more genuinely angry over Missy’s mother striking her for the first time ever than he is over the fact that the woman essentially spent YEARS facilitating Missy’s sexual abuse at the hands of one of her stepfathers. Surprisingly (at least to this reader) there was no sense of righteous indignation, desire to seek justice, or even a well-meaning half-formed suggestion of vengeance against the perpetrator.
After Missy finally confides in him about her brokenness and intimacy fears, Will simply conveys the fact that the abuse doesn’t change the way he feels about her. Though he seems happy to sleep with her regardless of her past, he doesn’t seem interested in taking steps to research what he could do to help her through her trust issues and sexual healing process. While his initial sexual restraint (toward Missy) is admirable, his constipation toward commitment and verbal affirmation of love wasn’t especially endearing. Granted, he clearly had his own emotional baggage (which Missy isn’t yet in any condition to help him work through). But while Missy grows significantly throughout the story, we don’t really get the sense that Will does likewise.
Also, for a great deal of the book, I actually forgot that Will was artistically gifted. That aspect of him came up at the very beginning and then reasserted itself toward the end, but didn’t feel quite threaded in with his talk/mindset for the majority of the story.
Content Note: This book does contain some strong triggers in regard to childhood sexual abuse, although the descriptions are more peripheral and non-graphic (and thankfully, the author is careful to include a wide array of support resources for readers to reference at the end of the book.) The use of coarse language is somewhat heavy, however realistic to the particular high school social “crowd” at the focus. There is a fairly graphic consensual sex scene, which seems almost presented as a form of sex-therapy—and in which multiple forms of contraception are discussed and blatantly utilized.
While this type of “issues” book may not be up everyone’s alley, it may prove cathartic to some. This author is a genuine talent and definitely one to watch.
October 12, 2014
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received a copy of this book directly from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
This is the second book by Callie James that I have read and I have to say that I am pleased to add a new author to my list of ones to watch for. Although this book is marketed as young adult, I found that there was more depth, rawness and honesty than found in a lot that I have read from this genre. You could say that this book is a romance (because it technically is) but it is a whole lot more. Innocent not only deals with the trials and tribulations of young love but also some complex and serious issues. Although I don't want to give anything away, I will say that the seriousness of these issues are not sugar coated or glorified and I felt that James was spot on in capturing the emotions involved.
Both Missy and Will were wonderful characters to get to know. The idea of best friends falling for each other is not an original concept but I felt that with the plot and the character development it was. I think the fact that the story dealt with a lot more than just teenage hormones gave it a powerful punch. Make no mistake, this book is not a sweet and fluffy romance. In fact, it is somewhat dark. It made me angry, it made me sad but at the same time there were also moments of humour and satisfaction. Basically the book provides the reader with a roller coaster of emotions which, in my opinion, makes for a great read.
I feel the need to mention two things in the story that captivated me and left me emotionally glued to the story. It will probably make no sense until you read it for yourself but then you will have that aha! moment.
1. When Missy looks at Will's journal
2. The scene at Missy's house with Alan and Vernie
I'll leave it at that but you will definitely know what I'm talking about when you read it!
Innocent is a well written story with some great characters as well as some that you will love to hate. It is an easy, page turning story full of emotions that I am sure readers of all ages will enjoy. There is some sexual content that may not be appropriate for the real young fans of this genre but other than that I feel that age is not an issue with reading this book.
I received a copy of this book directly from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
This is the second book by Callie James that I have read and I have to say that I am pleased to add a new author to my list of ones to watch for. Although this book is marketed as young adult, I found that there was more depth, rawness and honesty than found in a lot that I have read from this genre. You could say that this book is a romance (because it technically is) but it is a whole lot more. Innocent not only deals with the trials and tribulations of young love but also some complex and serious issues. Although I don't want to give anything away, I will say that the seriousness of these issues are not sugar coated or glorified and I felt that James was spot on in capturing the emotions involved.
Both Missy and Will were wonderful characters to get to know. The idea of best friends falling for each other is not an original concept but I felt that with the plot and the character development it was. I think the fact that the story dealt with a lot more than just teenage hormones gave it a powerful punch. Make no mistake, this book is not a sweet and fluffy romance. In fact, it is somewhat dark. It made me angry, it made me sad but at the same time there were also moments of humour and satisfaction. Basically the book provides the reader with a roller coaster of emotions which, in my opinion, makes for a great read.
I feel the need to mention two things in the story that captivated me and left me emotionally glued to the story. It will probably make no sense until you read it for yourself but then you will have that aha! moment.
1. When Missy looks at Will's journal
2. The scene at Missy's house with Alan and Vernie
I'll leave it at that but you will definitely know what I'm talking about when you read it!
Innocent is a well written story with some great characters as well as some that you will love to hate. It is an easy, page turning story full of emotions that I am sure readers of all ages will enjoy. There is some sexual content that may not be appropriate for the real young fans of this genre but other than that I feel that age is not an issue with reading this book.
July 25, 2014
I enjoyed reading this well written book…so much so, that it was one of those books I couldn't put down and therefore ended up reading through the night. The characters are well defined; I cared about the emotions of, and situations pertaining to, Missy and Will, and couldn't wait to find out what was going to become of them. Callie James writes with passion, enthusiasm…and humor. Sprinkled throughout some serious topics are some hysterical gems that kept a smile on my face throughout the seriousness. Serious topics were handled realistically, and thoughtfully. I highly recommend this read!
October 2, 2015
I loved this book! It was written so well and everything connected! I loved how in depth it went with Missy's relationship with CeCe. I loved reading those therapy sessions because it gave me a better understanding of Missy. I loved Missy and Wills relationship and Although I would have loved to know what was going through his head. I gave this book 5 starts only because there isn't a 10 star option ;)
September 12, 2015
4.5 stars
March 23, 2015
First, I must begin by saying I DID NOT BUY THIS BOOK. I won this book in a goodreads giveaway and Mrs. James sent it to me (Thanks so much!!!). Now, with that out of the way, let's begin...
Right off the bat, I liked this book. The description pulled me in, but some would pin that down to me being a sap for romance. Well, it is what it is. However when I opened the novel, it spoke to me. I've been out of high school for some months now and honestly? This was pretty accurate. Kids smoke, drink, or do both all the time- in an out of high school/ college regardless of whether it's legal or not.
As the story went on, I continued to see that the story was pretty realistic. I mean kids are like that; nervous and go through traumatic events, although perhaps not the same as Missy. Some people write off the events that take place in their kids lives and label it as trivial. They say that they've been in their childrens' shoes and that they're overreacting. Well parents, they're not. I know, I sound like a know-it-all, but at times my parents did the same thing and it only left me irritated and bitter. Circumstances change as the older generations pass away and new ideologies, etc. are introduced to the world.
Regardless, kids face traumatic things. Sometimes the only way to cope is to trust someone; other times, coping isn't possible. It depends on each experience and the person in question. Popping pills, cutting, etc. might be outlets, but not the answer.
This is seen repeatedly in the novel. That is, that drugs aren't the answer. It never helped Missy cope with her idiot of a mother or Alan. Quite frankly, nothing helps with poor parenting or abusive people. Well, except for moving a very far distance away, restraint orders, prison time, and the like, as long as both parties don't breach whatever was set in place. In this case, it just wasn't possible for Missy to avoid her mother at times. Yes, parents that are busy 24/7 don't hold as much parental authority and those that only come into the picture b/c they consider other children failures and their own children as competition are incompetent idiots. I'd never thought I'd agree with the Eugenics movement, but in this case it would almost be a blessing for some. Many children wouldn't have to tolerate that crap from people like that, if sterilization occurred. Anyway that's a subject for another day.
Inevitably, we can tell that Missy's mother is an idiot without a single brain cell rattling around in that head of hers and her poor decision making has made her daughter become street smart and trust no one but the boy she loves. At least, as we can see, she had a good head on her shoulders and an ex-stepfather she could trust, in addition to her boyfriend.
Conclusion
I give this book five stars for multiple reasons: it's realistic, it has likable (and unlikable) characters, it actually has a bit of a moral, and it shows an evolution in maturity of sorts. I would recommend this book in a heartbeat and am eager to read more of Mrs. James books.
Right off the bat, I liked this book. The description pulled me in, but some would pin that down to me being a sap for romance. Well, it is what it is. However when I opened the novel, it spoke to me. I've been out of high school for some months now and honestly? This was pretty accurate. Kids smoke, drink, or do both all the time- in an out of high school/ college regardless of whether it's legal or not.
As the story went on, I continued to see that the story was pretty realistic. I mean kids are like that; nervous and go through traumatic events, although perhaps not the same as Missy. Some people write off the events that take place in their kids lives and label it as trivial. They say that they've been in their childrens' shoes and that they're overreacting. Well parents, they're not. I know, I sound like a know-it-all, but at times my parents did the same thing and it only left me irritated and bitter. Circumstances change as the older generations pass away and new ideologies, etc. are introduced to the world.
Regardless, kids face traumatic things. Sometimes the only way to cope is to trust someone; other times, coping isn't possible. It depends on each experience and the person in question. Popping pills, cutting, etc. might be outlets, but not the answer.
This is seen repeatedly in the novel. That is, that drugs aren't the answer. It never helped Missy cope with her idiot of a mother or Alan. Quite frankly, nothing helps with poor parenting or abusive people. Well, except for moving a very far distance away, restraint orders, prison time, and the like, as long as both parties don't breach whatever was set in place. In this case, it just wasn't possible for Missy to avoid her mother at times. Yes, parents that are busy 24/7 don't hold as much parental authority and those that only come into the picture b/c they consider other children failures and their own children as competition are incompetent idiots. I'd never thought I'd agree with the Eugenics movement, but in this case it would almost be a blessing for some. Many children wouldn't have to tolerate that crap from people like that, if sterilization occurred. Anyway that's a subject for another day.
Inevitably, we can tell that Missy's mother is an idiot without a single brain cell rattling around in that head of hers and her poor decision making has made her daughter become street smart and trust no one but the boy she loves. At least, as we can see, she had a good head on her shoulders and an ex-stepfather she could trust, in addition to her boyfriend.
Conclusion
I give this book five stars for multiple reasons: it's realistic, it has likable (and unlikable) characters, it actually has a bit of a moral, and it shows an evolution in maturity of sorts. I would recommend this book in a heartbeat and am eager to read more of Mrs. James books.
November 7, 2014
This is a beautifully written YA story about first love and how true innocence is a state of mind not a state of being. The main character, 17 yr old Missy, has been best friends with Will since they were young, but for the last two years she's secretly been in love with him. She's terrified to admit it for fear of losing him and the friendship. It's only a few months from graduation and she knows he'll be going away to school somewhere and no matter how much she'd like to go with him (to escape her horrible scary abusive mother) she's decided to sacrifice escape to remain and protect her sister and niece (who both also live with the mother). The developing romance is wrapped around Missy healing from abuse as a child committed by a step father (abuse enabled by the mother who refused to believe her daughter). The author does a brilliant job of creating very realistic 3-D characters who must deal with various traumatic obstacles to finding happiness. This is a gripping read! I was sucked in from the first page. I had to stop half way to go to bed and found myself waking in the night tempted to go and read just one chapter, but I know I wouldn't be able to stop. It's that good! One of the things I loved most about the story is a truth I've seen in my own life - and that is - yes there are cruel and evil people in the world who will hurt others, but there are also a lot of good people who only want to love and help. For a story woven around abuse this is a very uplifting story with a very satisfying ending.
November 18, 2014
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads
This book was incredible read. I was completely sucked into it, which to be honest was not something I was expecting to happen. I just couldn't put it down because I was too excited to see what was going to happen next! I felt for Missy on so many levels and often wanted to yell at her for not making the selfish choice, she just felt that real to me. I wanted to be there with Will giving her my two cents about life. I loved the story and I loved how it ended even if it might have been a little fairytale like in how it wrapped up. What can I say, those are the stories I like best.
I would have given this book a higher rating except that I feel like I couldn't recommend it to my fellow readers (at least the ones that I'm friends with). The language and the mention of drugs and drinking throughout the novel may be too much for other readers. I wondered at first if it would be too much for me, but was pleasantly surprised that the content was able to draw me in so effectively even with that kind of material. I just don't usually read books with that in it. That's just me.
Callie James is an excellent writer and I look forward to experiencing her other books. I have to say experience instead of 'read' because that is truly what it feels like when reading her work.
This book was incredible read. I was completely sucked into it, which to be honest was not something I was expecting to happen. I just couldn't put it down because I was too excited to see what was going to happen next! I felt for Missy on so many levels and often wanted to yell at her for not making the selfish choice, she just felt that real to me. I wanted to be there with Will giving her my two cents about life. I loved the story and I loved how it ended even if it might have been a little fairytale like in how it wrapped up. What can I say, those are the stories I like best.
I would have given this book a higher rating except that I feel like I couldn't recommend it to my fellow readers (at least the ones that I'm friends with). The language and the mention of drugs and drinking throughout the novel may be too much for other readers. I wondered at first if it would be too much for me, but was pleasantly surprised that the content was able to draw me in so effectively even with that kind of material. I just don't usually read books with that in it. That's just me.
Callie James is an excellent writer and I look forward to experiencing her other books. I have to say experience instead of 'read' because that is truly what it feels like when reading her work.
December 31, 2015
Geez. When you get asked to judge the teen romances for a contest one does not tend to think you are in for an intense experience. I'll give Callie James this-she tackles incredibly heavy topics that are unfortunately too real for many families and she does so in a way that is pretty raw and honest.
Missy is in love with her best friend Will but she doesn't dare tell him her real feelings because he is the one stable influence she has in her life. At 17, Missy lives with her manipulative and abusive mother who cares little for anyone but herself and her older sister who isn't much of an ally having moved home after getting pregnant leaving most of the child-rearing to Missy. If this sounds like too much Missy was also sexually abused by her mother's ex-husband and her mother refuses to believe her. Her redemption comes in the form of a strong psychologist who is able to help Missy deal with her family dynamic and her mother's current husband who when confided in by Missy does the right thing and stands up for her. Then, there is Will who just might feel the same. Lots of potential triggers here but handled with lots of resources and compassion.
Missy is in love with her best friend Will but she doesn't dare tell him her real feelings because he is the one stable influence she has in her life. At 17, Missy lives with her manipulative and abusive mother who cares little for anyone but herself and her older sister who isn't much of an ally having moved home after getting pregnant leaving most of the child-rearing to Missy. If this sounds like too much Missy was also sexually abused by her mother's ex-husband and her mother refuses to believe her. Her redemption comes in the form of a strong psychologist who is able to help Missy deal with her family dynamic and her mother's current husband who when confided in by Missy does the right thing and stands up for her. Then, there is Will who just might feel the same. Lots of potential triggers here but handled with lots of resources and compassion.
September 16, 2014
I just can't say it enough how this story affected me. Captivated by the sadness and emotional torture that Missy was experiencing. But, her strength was shown in the continuing development of her character. Will was a breath of fresh air...a mature, protective spirit that you wanted to reach into the book and hug! Parts of this story made me scream out of frustration and have the desire to throw things. Other scenes made me tear up and cheer! So, so well written and I highly recommend this book. I could not put it down. Get it. Read it. Now.
August 1, 2014
I loved this book by Callie James! I read her other book, Student Bodyguard For Hire, and loved it too. I was so excited when I found out this book was out. I completely connected with the characters and read almost the entire book in one day. Once I got into it, I just couldn't put it down! I highly recommend this book! I don't want to spoil anything, but make sure you have a fresh box of tissue with you when reading.
July 21, 2014
This is the second Callie James book I have read, and again I was not disappointed. I really connected with Missy, the main protagonist, and this book tapped into emotions I haven't felt in quite a while. It is a gripping read, you won't want to put it down. The characters are raw and the storyline is very interesting. I can't wait to see what Callie puts out next!
July 25, 2014
A fantastic book that really gets to you. I find myself still thinking about this book at work and at home. The emotional punches hit home and opened my eyes to the lingering effects of abuse. The author never trivialized the heroine's experiences, however she does weave a very compelling and sometimes hilarious romance. I highly recommend this book and this author.
Thanks Callie.
Thanks Callie.
February 23, 2015
I feel like I don't even have the words to say how much I liked this book. Not only did it have the sweet best friends secretly falling for each other thing going on, it had a lot of deep issues to address as well. It was just a really good YA contemporary romance. It's the first book I've read by Callie James, but I'm definitely a fan now!
July 20, 2014
Another wonderful book by Callie James. So much depth to the characters. I found myself crying several times with the main character, Missy. While this is a teen book, it is written intelligently and will appeal to people in all walks of life.
August 14, 2014
I was very pleased to see the positive interaction with the protagonist and the psychologist. I hope it encourages other teens to see this as a valid source of help in complicated home issues. Well done.
July 9, 2015
I won this on goodreads. Thank You
Missy and Will are typical teeanagers except with family complications. The characters have depth and well portrayed. It is a good YA novel. It is a well written book and I enjoyed it.
Missy and Will are typical teeanagers except with family complications. The characters have depth and well portrayed. It is a good YA novel. It is a well written book and I enjoyed it.
March 10, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. It was in a YA category, but was very mature and would work for anyone. The mother daughter dynamic is spot on and I love the BFF turned BF. One of my favorite premises. I won this book through Goodreads.
May 26, 2016
Putting this book down will be difficult!
Read full review in the 2015 March issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2015 March issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews