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The Wright Brother
From the moment I opened my eyes I could only see the world in shades of gray. There was no noise, no sound, nothing. Deaf and colorblind, I was a loner. My world was bleak, silent and empty, until her. Until I met my neighbor, Elisa Jane Adrian. I want her. I need her. The fractured part of me feels whole when she's around. Like the world isn't so dark, isn't so bleak, and so still. I know it's impossible, but when I look at Elisa I swear I can see color, can hear the gentle inhalations of her breath. I know she feels it too, this magic, this desperate desire...
I first saw him when I was three. Julian Wright was different than any other guy I'd ever known. He sees the world in a way I know I never will. But he intrigues me. The way he looks at me with his sea green eyes, how he hypnotizes me with his smile.
It's dangerous these feelings I have for him. Reckless and stupid. I'm so much older than him, I know better. And I'll fight these desires, no one will ever know how I feel. I'll even pretend to myself that I'm not as hooked on him as he is on me.
I'll move away to Ireland, I'll forget him, but that's the thing about the Wrights, they have a way of getting under your skin, into your soul, and no matter the time or distance, once a Wright sets their eyes on you, there's no going back...ever.
I first saw him when I was three. Julian Wright was different than any other guy I'd ever known. He sees the world in a way I know I never will. But he intrigues me. The way he looks at me with his sea green eyes, how he hypnotizes me with his smile.
It's dangerous these feelings I have for him. Reckless and stupid. I'm so much older than him, I know better. And I'll fight these desires, no one will ever know how I feel. I'll even pretend to myself that I'm not as hooked on him as he is on me.
I'll move away to Ireland, I'll forget him, but that's the thing about the Wrights, they have a way of getting under your skin, into your soul, and no matter the time or distance, once a Wright sets their eyes on you, there's no going back...ever.
250 pages, ebook
First published September 19, 2014
38 people are currently reading
1025 people want to read
About the author
Marie Hall
55 books2,090 followersMarie Hall is a USA Today Bestselling author and has always held a dangerous fascination for creatures that go bump in the night. And mermaids. And of course fairies. Trolls. Unicorns. Shapeshifters. Vampires. Scottish brogues. Kilts. Beefy arms. Ummm... Bad boys! Especially the sexy ones.
Then the day came she realized apart from the sexy bad boy she married, there'd be no vampires/shapeshifters/mermaids/fairies/or even stinky trolls in her future unless she wrote about them. More often than not she can be found roaming the wild, lush tropical forest she calls her backyard (a.k.a. Hawaii) and day dreaming constantly about her latest project.
Her Mad Hatter is the first book of her Kingdom Series.
She loves to hear from her readers and can be reached at mariehallwrites@gmail.com!
Then the day came she realized apart from the sexy bad boy she married, there'd be no vampires/shapeshifters/mermaids/fairies/or even stinky trolls in her future unless she wrote about them. More often than not she can be found roaming the wild, lush tropical forest she calls her backyard (a.k.a. Hawaii) and day dreaming constantly about her latest project.
Her Mad Hatter is the first book of her Kingdom Series.
She loves to hear from her readers and can be reached at mariehallwrites@gmail.com!
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 139 reviews
February 20, 2015
2-2.5 stars
I'm really disapointed by this book. I feel like I should have paid attention to the synopsis better, because honestly right now I feel like I was misled.
First of all, the synopsis shows that you have both Julian's POV and Elisa's POV. Was that correct?
I was really let down, waiting and waiting to see his point of view. Because that was what hooked me into this story in the first place. When you have a hero who is deaf and colorblind, you really want to read his thoughts, right? Well, sadly I only got the heroine's and let me tell you how much I liked her.
"I'm so much older than him, I know better. "
That was on the synopsis, by the way. Let me just mention here that the so much older should be replaced by 2 years and 5 months. That's the 'huge' age gap.
I was really frustrated because at first I honestly thought that the age gap would be more than 10 years and when I found out the difference I was kind of bummed. Still, it didn't bother me. What really bothered me was that she was making it such a big deal that I wanted to stab my eyes with a fork. The cherry on the top was when Julian's ex called her a pedophile and a perverted freak.
Other than that, it was an okay read. It had a couple of scenes that I enjoyed reading, but the book felt too long, too dragged and when they finally got it together, I was too bored to care, so I struggled to read the last 50% of the book. Also, it was like every paragraph or chapter it moved forward several months or years later. So I can't say I enjoyed that either. I got mad at the heroine again close to the end and because of that, the ending didn't work for me.
**Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
September 14, 2014
As a disabled person I love discovering books featuring characters that represent me. With The Wright Brother we have an amazing and understanding hero and his angsty and rocky road to romance with the girl who's been a part of his life since the day he was born. With its heartbreaking moments of peer pressure weighing on their connection readers are kept on the edge of their seats praying for a HEA.
Champion swimmer Elisa has been a part of the Wright triplet's lives since they were born and had an undeniable connection with Julian, the quiet and contemplative brother who happens to be deaf and colorblind. As children she sees them as her brothers and their lives become inexplicably entwined with hers. Between her and Julian in particular there's a special bond where they have their own way of communicating. As they grow older their connection deepens and that's when things become complicated. Elisa starts seeing Julian in a less than brotherly way, but because he's two years younger she fights an attraction that's clearly meant to be. As the years pass their relationship has its ups and downs with moments of deep and profound connections along with gutwrenching breakups that ultimately coalesce in Elisa discovering the true meaning of love. Elisa is a character that is at once admirable as well as frustrating. As the story was told from her prospective we got to see her feelings and thoughts in-depth as they evolved through the years which left me disappointed in her at times. She was always accepting of Julian's disability, learning sign language, as well as having their own special language. She was drawn to him completely but let their age difference consume her which led to wishy-washy and hurtful life choices. She would push him away while bringing him closer and I felt that she led him on at times. She never made the sacrifices he did for their happiness which lessened my opinion of her further. I also never felt she was as deeply committed as he was in their relationship as her head was easily turned by a pretty boy late in the story. Though she was older in age I felt she was more childish in understanding feelings. When describing Julian it was all about his looks at first with deeper impressions coming much later. Ultimately she became an adult worthy of the amazing Julian, but I wish her journey in getting to that point hadn't been so frustrating through misunderstandings of her own making.
Ms. Hall's depiction of Julian's disability was nicely handled and seamlessly incorporated into the story. He was an engaging and strong-willed character and was put through the emotional wringer by Elisa's poor choices. He had bouts of depression and loneliness that we barely saw but defined who he became and I truly wish the story had given us more insight into his thoughts as he was the stronger and more likable character. I would've liked to see the world through his colorblind eyes and see into people's souls beyond their words. Julian always knew he wanted Elisa and gave her the time to realize the truth of what they meant to each other. He was steadfast in his love and he's now my new book boyfriend as he's deliciously sexy and sweet in his words and deeds.
At times the storyline took on a soap opera feel, especially with Mandy's fit of jealousy over Julian's attention to Elisa as well as Ava's jealousy over Elisa's swimming talent. This distracted from the overall romance and was an attempt to elicit sympathy for Elisa that didn't really work for me as I desperately wanted to see more of Julian. His life and career was taking off and we never got to see it as the story was focused on Elisa. Along on this rollercoaster ride to HEA is a memorable cast of secondary characters that range from insightful parents to supportive friends to the charming, fun, and flirty Wright brothers, Christian and Roman. I hope to see their stories told as they too had emotional ups and downs, hidden behind humor, but equally engaging as dealing with a disabled sibling isn't always easy. From start to finish I was fully immersed in this story and its melodramatic romance but often left frustrated and disappointed by Elisa. She was at times superficial and subtly self-centered but in Julian's presence she shined. Julian is an enigmatic hero who spoke volumes with his silence. He was sexy, supportive, and wise beyond his years. The unrelenting sexual tension between him and Elisa crackled which ultimately led to super steamy and sensual sexual interludes between the two. Ultimately, because of Julian, I enjoyed this story and its depiction of disability and growing up though I wish we'd seen more of it through Julian's eyes. Once again Ms. Hall has successfully tugged at my heartstrings with her imperfect yet perfect for me hero and I hope to revisit the Wright brothers as their stories deserve to be told.
Champion swimmer Elisa has been a part of the Wright triplet's lives since they were born and had an undeniable connection with Julian, the quiet and contemplative brother who happens to be deaf and colorblind. As children she sees them as her brothers and their lives become inexplicably entwined with hers. Between her and Julian in particular there's a special bond where they have their own way of communicating. As they grow older their connection deepens and that's when things become complicated. Elisa starts seeing Julian in a less than brotherly way, but because he's two years younger she fights an attraction that's clearly meant to be. As the years pass their relationship has its ups and downs with moments of deep and profound connections along with gutwrenching breakups that ultimately coalesce in Elisa discovering the true meaning of love. Elisa is a character that is at once admirable as well as frustrating. As the story was told from her prospective we got to see her feelings and thoughts in-depth as they evolved through the years which left me disappointed in her at times. She was always accepting of Julian's disability, learning sign language, as well as having their own special language. She was drawn to him completely but let their age difference consume her which led to wishy-washy and hurtful life choices. She would push him away while bringing him closer and I felt that she led him on at times. She never made the sacrifices he did for their happiness which lessened my opinion of her further. I also never felt she was as deeply committed as he was in their relationship as her head was easily turned by a pretty boy late in the story. Though she was older in age I felt she was more childish in understanding feelings. When describing Julian it was all about his looks at first with deeper impressions coming much later. Ultimately she became an adult worthy of the amazing Julian, but I wish her journey in getting to that point hadn't been so frustrating through misunderstandings of her own making.
Ms. Hall's depiction of Julian's disability was nicely handled and seamlessly incorporated into the story. He was an engaging and strong-willed character and was put through the emotional wringer by Elisa's poor choices. He had bouts of depression and loneliness that we barely saw but defined who he became and I truly wish the story had given us more insight into his thoughts as he was the stronger and more likable character. I would've liked to see the world through his colorblind eyes and see into people's souls beyond their words. Julian always knew he wanted Elisa and gave her the time to realize the truth of what they meant to each other. He was steadfast in his love and he's now my new book boyfriend as he's deliciously sexy and sweet in his words and deeds.
At times the storyline took on a soap opera feel, especially with Mandy's fit of jealousy over Julian's attention to Elisa as well as Ava's jealousy over Elisa's swimming talent. This distracted from the overall romance and was an attempt to elicit sympathy for Elisa that didn't really work for me as I desperately wanted to see more of Julian. His life and career was taking off and we never got to see it as the story was focused on Elisa. Along on this rollercoaster ride to HEA is a memorable cast of secondary characters that range from insightful parents to supportive friends to the charming, fun, and flirty Wright brothers, Christian and Roman. I hope to see their stories told as they too had emotional ups and downs, hidden behind humor, but equally engaging as dealing with a disabled sibling isn't always easy. From start to finish I was fully immersed in this story and its melodramatic romance but often left frustrated and disappointed by Elisa. She was at times superficial and subtly self-centered but in Julian's presence she shined. Julian is an enigmatic hero who spoke volumes with his silence. He was sexy, supportive, and wise beyond his years. The unrelenting sexual tension between him and Elisa crackled which ultimately led to super steamy and sensual sexual interludes between the two. Ultimately, because of Julian, I enjoyed this story and its depiction of disability and growing up though I wish we'd seen more of it through Julian's eyes. Once again Ms. Hall has successfully tugged at my heartstrings with her imperfect yet perfect for me hero and I hope to revisit the Wright brothers as their stories deserve to be told.
September 30, 2014
2.5-3 Stars
When I first heard about this book from a friend, it sounded amazing, beautiful, and I just had a strong feeling that I was going to bring out my ugly cry for this one. I was thinking it would be along the lines of Archers Voice, which was absolutely beautiful and emotional. There is a good story here, and it seems lots of people loved this, but I found it lacking and IMO, misleading. As I am still feeling a little raw, I am going to start out with the bad. I never copy blurbs, but I feel it is a little necessary to do to in order to show part of my frustration.
Here's what hooked me:
From the moment I opened my eyes I could only see the world in shades of gray. There was no noise, no sound, nothing. Deaf and colorblind, I was a freak. My world was bleak, silent and empty, until her. Until I met my neighbor, Elisa Jane Adrian. I want her. I need her. The fractured part of me feels whole when she's around. Like the world isn't so dark, isn't so bleak, and so still. I know it's impossible, but when I look at Elisa I swear I can see color, can hear the gentle inhalations of her breath. I know she feels it too, this magic, this desperate desire...
I first saw him when I was three. Julian Wright was different than any other guy I'd ever known. He sees the world in a way I know I never will. But he intrigues me. The way he looks at me with his sea green eyes, how he hypnotizes me with his smile.
This is just the main part, but do you see what I mean?
It sounds soooooo good! That's what I thought anyways.
Would you think the book was written in dual POV and first person? I did. I wanted to read about Julian's thoughts and how he felt. But sadly, this was written in third person, solely from Elisa's perspective.
This threw me off, and I shouldn't be upset about it, as it's just a description of the book...but I was pretty bummed out about this. I still continued because I thought there was a great love story to be told.
I liked the first third of the book. To find out that Julian was a triplet, made his story a little more sad. He was the outcast if the three boys, not just personality but looks as well. He loved Elisa since he was very young. Your heart just melted for this sweet beta hero.
Julian and Elisa grow up as next door neighbors. She sees the triplets as her brothers, and they do everything together. When Elisa is 11, the boys move away after the death of their father and Elisa is devastated. When they come back, six years later, there is something about the 15 year Julian that makes her heart skip. He has tattoos, piercings and is gorgeous.
She is very conflicted about her feelings. Not only has Julian been like a brother to her, but the age difference bothers her. They are 2 years and 5 months apart. She will be going off to college and he will be in high school for another couple years. But there is something about Julian that makes her go against her best judgement.
Needless to say, the sexual tension is high. Elisa has to know how Julian feels about her and she continued to lead him on and then run away. This frustrated me.
What follows is love and happiness, followed by separation and unnecessary angst.
I loved the premise of the story, and heard there is a second book with Julian's POV, however I will not be reading this. The concept is a good one, but unfortunately this did not work for me. This is just my opinion. If you're expecting an emotional read, I'd say move along, you won't find that here.
But the next time I get all worked up about a blurb, you have my permission to smack me.
When I first heard about this book from a friend, it sounded amazing, beautiful, and I just had a strong feeling that I was going to bring out my ugly cry for this one. I was thinking it would be along the lines of Archers Voice, which was absolutely beautiful and emotional. There is a good story here, and it seems lots of people loved this, but I found it lacking and IMO, misleading. As I am still feeling a little raw, I am going to start out with the bad. I never copy blurbs, but I feel it is a little necessary to do to in order to show part of my frustration.
Here's what hooked me:
From the moment I opened my eyes I could only see the world in shades of gray. There was no noise, no sound, nothing. Deaf and colorblind, I was a freak. My world was bleak, silent and empty, until her. Until I met my neighbor, Elisa Jane Adrian. I want her. I need her. The fractured part of me feels whole when she's around. Like the world isn't so dark, isn't so bleak, and so still. I know it's impossible, but when I look at Elisa I swear I can see color, can hear the gentle inhalations of her breath. I know she feels it too, this magic, this desperate desire...
I first saw him when I was three. Julian Wright was different than any other guy I'd ever known. He sees the world in a way I know I never will. But he intrigues me. The way he looks at me with his sea green eyes, how he hypnotizes me with his smile.
This is just the main part, but do you see what I mean?
It sounds soooooo good! That's what I thought anyways.
Would you think the book was written in dual POV and first person? I did. I wanted to read about Julian's thoughts and how he felt. But sadly, this was written in third person, solely from Elisa's perspective.
This threw me off, and I shouldn't be upset about it, as it's just a description of the book...but I was pretty bummed out about this. I still continued because I thought there was a great love story to be told.
I liked the first third of the book. To find out that Julian was a triplet, made his story a little more sad. He was the outcast if the three boys, not just personality but looks as well. He loved Elisa since he was very young. Your heart just melted for this sweet beta hero.
Julian and Elisa grow up as next door neighbors. She sees the triplets as her brothers, and they do everything together. When Elisa is 11, the boys move away after the death of their father and Elisa is devastated. When they come back, six years later, there is something about the 15 year Julian that makes her heart skip. He has tattoos, piercings and is gorgeous.
She is very conflicted about her feelings. Not only has Julian been like a brother to her, but the age difference bothers her. They are 2 years and 5 months apart. She will be going off to college and he will be in high school for another couple years. But there is something about Julian that makes her go against her best judgement.
Needless to say, the sexual tension is high. Elisa has to know how Julian feels about her and she continued to lead him on and then run away. This frustrated me.
What follows is love and happiness, followed by separation and unnecessary angst.
I loved the premise of the story, and heard there is a second book with Julian's POV, however I will not be reading this. The concept is a good one, but unfortunately this did not work for me. This is just my opinion. If you're expecting an emotional read, I'd say move along, you won't find that here.
But the next time I get all worked up about a blurb, you have my permission to smack me.
September 3, 2020
This book just wasn’t for me. It sounded so promising. A dual POV love story between a deaf and colorblind hero and his childhood friend? Yes, please! Unfortunately, the blurb is misleading because it is only in the heroine’s point-of-view and she was rather annoying. She always had a reason as to why they shouldn’t be together. Her favorite excuse being that she was a whole 2 years older than him. To make matters even worse, this story spans from when they were in diapers to when they are adults. So the reader is forced to read about her denying their connection for the ENTIRE book. They also do a lot of shitty things like cheating on multiple partners multiple times because they are just so in love with each other. I’m sorry, but I couldn’t get behind this whole forbidden aspect because nothing about their relationship felt forbidden to me.
Speaking of aspects, there were some hard to believe aspects in this story. For example, the hero and the heroine can talk in something like morse code. It was believable until they started having huge conversations about very specific topics that I highly doubted they had a code for. The author also gave the impression that nobody knew sign language but his family and Elisa. So it was supposed to be cute when only Elisa could understand him.
I should also mention that, while this couple gets a HEA, there were supposed to be more books to this series. Given that this book was published in 2014 I’d say this series in dunzo.
2.5 stars!This review was originally posted on Sincerely, Whitney
Speaking of aspects, there were some hard to believe aspects in this story. For example, the hero and the heroine can talk in something like morse code. It was believable until they started having huge conversations about very specific topics that I highly doubted they had a code for. The author also gave the impression that nobody knew sign language but his family and Elisa. So it was supposed to be cute when only Elisa could understand him.
I should also mention that, while this couple gets a HEA, there were supposed to be more books to this series. Given that this book was published in 2014 I’d say this series in dunzo.
2.5 stars!This review was originally posted on Sincerely, Whitney
Want to read
September 19, 2014 I love the sound of this!! -- The hero was born deaf and colorblind (!!!) and his life has been silent and empty, until her. She's his neighbour and he's falling for her, but she's fighting her feelings for him... and he doesn't want to let her go...
September 19, 2014
Wow... what a HUGE disappointment!
I bought this book without reading a sample first (which was a mistake!).
Elisa is a boring and immature girl/woman. She was sooo annoying.
Julian... well, I never felt a connection to him. Actually, the whole story felt kind of far away.
It was written in the third person from Elisa's POV (kind of weird, because the blurb on Goodreads was written from Julian's POV).
The writing was rushed (and especially towards the end) were so many time jumps I was slightly confused. The idea of the book was so great but the rest... *sigh* a huge waste of time.
So, two stars because of the prologue and the great idea.
I bought this book without reading a sample first (which was a mistake!).
Elisa is a boring and immature girl/woman. She was sooo annoying.
Julian... well, I never felt a connection to him. Actually, the whole story felt kind of far away.
It was written in the third person from Elisa's POV (kind of weird, because the blurb on Goodreads was written from Julian's POV).
The writing was rushed (and especially towards the end) were so many time jumps I was slightly confused. The idea of the book was so great but the rest... *sigh* a huge waste of time.
So, two stars because of the prologue and the great idea.
September 19, 2014
☆ I received an ARC from Author's HQ in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! ☆
The Wright Brother was great introduction to the different Wright brothers, particularly, Julian. ♥ ♥
The plot unfolds around a man who is deaf and colorblind and an older woman who’ve known each other since childhood and their journey toward love, acceptance, and taking chances in life.
Their affair is not an easy one, so hence, my wanting to wring somebody’s neck and slap some sense into someone every once in a while! But, when they did give into their feelings and come together it was absolutely beautiful.
I liked the depth the author had added to the Julian’s character, aside from his physical hindrances, and his out of the box type of way he sees himself and the world. So different and dynamic. Yet refreshing!! He totally got under my skin, that’s for sure!!
As for Elisa, she was…err…something else. Don’t get me wrong, she is a good person and her heart is in the right place. It’s just her mind and demeanor that got to me at times since her actions don’t exactly follow up to what I was expecting. She was really something in itself!
So all in all, a touching story about life's blessings and heartaches and how to make the best of obscure challenges and to pave way to your future!
#Great job Marie!! ♥ ♥
The Wright Brother was great introduction to the different Wright brothers, particularly, Julian. ♥ ♥
The plot unfolds around a man who is deaf and colorblind and an older woman who’ve known each other since childhood and their journey toward love, acceptance, and taking chances in life.
Their affair is not an easy one, so hence, my wanting to wring somebody’s neck and slap some sense into someone every once in a while! But, when they did give into their feelings and come together it was absolutely beautiful.
I liked the depth the author had added to the Julian’s character, aside from his physical hindrances, and his out of the box type of way he sees himself and the world. So different and dynamic. Yet refreshing!! He totally got under my skin, that’s for sure!!
As for Elisa, she was…err…something else. Don’t get me wrong, she is a good person and her heart is in the right place. It’s just her mind and demeanor that got to me at times since her actions don’t exactly follow up to what I was expecting. She was really something in itself!
So all in all, a touching story about life's blessings and heartaches and how to make the best of obscure challenges and to pave way to your future!
#Great job Marie!! ♥ ♥
September 6, 2014
Let's just say Elisa and Julien's togetherness is not smooth sailing. Sometimes I wanted to shake one of them it didn't matter who the hell I wanted to shake they just needed a good damn shake. Elisa she's just lost on her feelings I think she's not sure what's proper, what's what she's just plain lost, I'm not sure the author intended for the character to be lost and a ditz at times but the girl came across that way. I mean she isn't hesitant for a battle with Julien, "have you told her? Did you tell her what happened that night between us? huh? Because you owe her that much. I told Tom. I broke it off with him. Did you know that?" Once things get good between the two I enjoyed the story very much and Julien's way of telling her that it's time for bed is a perfect solution that all couples should consider there would totally be a lot less fights and divorces in the world, "he shrugged. "When I'm tired, I'll just give you an orgasm and make you fall asleep." I loved Julien's playful side we didn't see it much but when we did I was excited, "you're the fastest swimmer I know. You own this." Then he took her hands, gave them a quick kiss, and patted her bottom. "Now get dressed before I forget that we don't have time for me to go down on you." I'm ready for the rest of the boys to get a story I hope Rome's is a little more edgier and more bada** because the boy comes off as a total bada**.
February 17, 2015
This review is gonna suck, but the book kind of deserves it.
Of course Joey was going to ask her. It wasn’t like it was the best-kept secret: he was a jock, she was a jock, it was a match made in jocky heaven.
This book takes place over a long period of time and I did like the birds-eye view of Elisa's life. The author is free to emphasise and skip details as she likes, sometimes jumping from one week to a couple of months and I didn't mind at all because she's telling a bigger story. I especially liked that Elisa's voice matured over the book.
Elisa, Christian, Roman, and Jules are childhood best friends. Elisa is an only child so....
They’d grown up together, she’d tended to their scrapes, played hide and go seek, listened to them talk all about their stupid cartoons because she loved them. From the very first minute she’d seen the triplets, she’d fallen in love. They were her family.
The boys are fraternal triplets but Christian and Roman are much more twin-like. Elisa is a tomboy so she fits right in with the brothers. Elisa has always looked out especially for Julian who is colour blind, deaf and mute.
The blurb makes it seem like she's some kind of cougar, but she's actually only two years and five months older than him.
The romance can be awkward but the author seems to play it up even more so that I felt uncomfortable. Yet every time I started judging, the author bitch slaps Julian and Elisa so hard I can't help but feel sorry for their doomed love.
Until the only thought she kept having was that after today he was legal. What a sad, sad person she was.
The story gets much better once Julian turns 18 and the author starts describing their relationship in much more mature terms. Also, pre-18 Julian is the one that is pining after Elisa. Post-18, it's a bit of a different story.
She was just as much in love with Julian Wright now as she had ever been, and she hated him for it.
When Julian gets a girlfriend I just think it's hilariously stupid that said girlfriend doesn't know sign language.
I like that Elisa is close with her parents. I feel like I've recently been reading a lot of dysfunctional family books.
One annoying thing is the inconsistencies. Julian demands to know why Elisa didn't call him. Sure, maybe he meant Skype but it just bugged me.
Also, Julian only wears black and white so he doesn't have to worry about colour scheming. Colour blind people can see different shades of gray, I think that he would've learned?
Sexual Content: Several graphic sex scenes which didn't really contribute to the story at all.
I forgot to mention the cheating. ARGH. The CASUAL CHEATING. I hate the CHEATING. It is NOT okay. Repeat: NOT OKAY.
Of course Joey was going to ask her. It wasn’t like it was the best-kept secret: he was a jock, she was a jock, it was a match made in jocky heaven.
This book takes place over a long period of time and I did like the birds-eye view of Elisa's life. The author is free to emphasise and skip details as she likes, sometimes jumping from one week to a couple of months and I didn't mind at all because she's telling a bigger story. I especially liked that Elisa's voice matured over the book.
Elisa, Christian, Roman, and Jules are childhood best friends. Elisa is an only child so....
They’d grown up together, she’d tended to their scrapes, played hide and go seek, listened to them talk all about their stupid cartoons because she loved them. From the very first minute she’d seen the triplets, she’d fallen in love. They were her family.
The boys are fraternal triplets but Christian and Roman are much more twin-like. Elisa is a tomboy so she fits right in with the brothers. Elisa has always looked out especially for Julian who is colour blind, deaf and mute.
The blurb makes it seem like she's some kind of cougar, but she's actually only two years and five months older than him.
The romance can be awkward but the author seems to play it up even more so that I felt uncomfortable. Yet every time I started judging, the author bitch slaps Julian and Elisa so hard I can't help but feel sorry for their doomed love.
Until the only thought she kept having was that after today he was legal. What a sad, sad person she was.
The story gets much better once Julian turns 18 and the author starts describing their relationship in much more mature terms. Also, pre-18 Julian is the one that is pining after Elisa. Post-18, it's a bit of a different story.
She was just as much in love with Julian Wright now as she had ever been, and she hated him for it.
When Julian gets a girlfriend I just think it's hilariously stupid that said girlfriend doesn't know sign language.
I like that Elisa is close with her parents. I feel like I've recently been reading a lot of dysfunctional family books.
One annoying thing is the inconsistencies. Julian demands to know why Elisa didn't call him. Sure, maybe he meant Skype but it just bugged me.
Also, Julian only wears black and white so he doesn't have to worry about colour scheming. Colour blind people can see different shades of gray, I think that he would've learned?
Sexual Content: Several graphic sex scenes which didn't really contribute to the story at all.
I forgot to mention the cheating. ARGH. The CASUAL CHEATING. I hate the CHEATING. It is NOT okay. Repeat: NOT OKAY.
July 27, 2021
Book shattered my heart then glued it back together and then shattered it again...
Started out really liking Elisa but she grew annoying fast🙄. Only not giving this book 2 stars bcz of my man Julian here, he was a gem❤️.
(P.s, I absolutely dislike reading about long distance relationships, something I found out today👀)
But she was the only part of the drawing done in color. He, and the room, were merely shades of black and gray.
“When I look at you, it’s like I can see the colors,” he signed. “I love you, Smile Girl.”
October 24, 2014
It was a nice story, I loved Roman and Christian, I LOVED Julian but...
Those damn buts again...
First of all, I think that the book had a bad case of the hiccups. When the author warned at the beginning that the book takes place over 30 years(!) I was sure it would be MUCH longer. But no, it was just that there was plot, plot, plot, hiccup-a-year-had-passed, plot, plot, months-have-passed and so on. I just didn't feel connected.
Secondly, when I read that the heroine was MUCH older I thought she wouuld be AT LEAST 7 to 12 years his senior. I should be so lucky. No, ladies and gentlemen, the heroine was only 3 years older!!! That, past the age of 15 (and her being 18) stopped being so weird.
Thridly, I disliked the heroine. She was annoying, self-centered and immature.
Last BUT CERTANLY NOT LEAST, we have a cheating couple. Now, personally I don't like it, but I don't refuse to read a book just because someone is unfaithful. But since I know people who do refuse to read such books I give you fair warning.
Would I read about the other 2 of the triplets? Sure. I will just have to adjust my expectations and hope to be pleasantly surprised.
Those damn buts again...
First of all, I think that the book had a bad case of the hiccups. When the author warned at the beginning that the book takes place over 30 years(!) I was sure it would be MUCH longer. But no, it was just that there was plot, plot, plot, hiccup-a-year-had-passed, plot, plot, months-have-passed and so on. I just didn't feel connected.
Secondly, when I read that the heroine was MUCH older I thought she wouuld be AT LEAST 7 to 12 years his senior. I should be so lucky. No, ladies and gentlemen, the heroine was only 3 years older!!! That, past the age of 15 (and her being 18) stopped being so weird.
Thridly, I disliked the heroine. She was annoying, self-centered and immature.
Last BUT CERTANLY NOT LEAST, we have a cheating couple. Now, personally I don't like it, but I don't refuse to read a book just because someone is unfaithful. But since I know people who do refuse to read such books I give you fair warning.
Would I read about the other 2 of the triplets? Sure. I will just have to adjust my expectations and hope to be pleasantly surprised.
April 4, 2016
Would have been a 5 star book except for the
I might still change it back to 5 stars though, upon reflection.
Awesome delish tatted H and spunky athletic h.
Beautiful story about soul-mates from childhood and their bumpy journey to a HEA.
I might still change it back to 5 stars though, upon reflection.
Awesome delish tatted H and spunky athletic h.
Beautiful story about soul-mates from childhood and their bumpy journey to a HEA.
February 12, 2017
This review appeared first on Fantasy is More Fun.
I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
My Initial Reaction...
OMG the FEELS!!! Marie's done it again - maybe even outdone herself! I have a feeling I'll be gushing over The Wright Brother for weeks to come. I can't get it out of my head!
The Characters...
If you're a character driven reader, you'll adore The Wright Brother. The whole story is told from the POV of Elise and through her we see both Elise and Julian grow from childhood to adults.
What I loved most about being in Elise's head over the course of her life is seeing the way she grew as a character. Marie did such an amazing job letting us feel the same mind growing up - we start with the Elise as a child (3 years old maybe?) and with a series of time jumps we get to see her as a young child and a tween, a teenager, and then finally - where the bulk of the story is told - as a college aged girl growing into her early 20s. She struggles with growing up - like we all do. She has to make decisions and sometimes she chooses terribly wrong. Sometimes it's just her age and sometimes it's being human. Elise is so beautifully complex and I loved every minute of her.
And then there's Julian. *sigh* When we first meet Julian, he's a newborn in his crib along with his two other brothers. He's a triplet, but from birth he will be different because what we recognize (though little Elise can't quite understand what's going on at this point) is that Julian is deaf. And, as it turns out, colorblind. I think what I loved most about the way Marie wrote Julian is that he never felt like someone to pity. I think this could have been an easy trap to fall into - making his disabilities define him. But Julian is a person, as beautifully complex and flawed as anyone. And yet, she also didn't miss the ways that Julian's disabilities would change his life. They're perfectly intertwined and just feel natural - not over emphasized, but not ignored either.
There are other characters and they play their roles really well - Elise's parents, Julian's brothers and mom, and friends. They are well-written and I'd honestly love to see books for so many of these characters because even though I didn't see tons of them, I saw enough to care about them and their lives too. But this was definitely Julian and Elise's story.
The Story...
As much as The Wright Brother is a romance, it's not JUST a romance. In fact, while the romance is great, it's just a part. Because this is a story of life. And just like romance is just part of life, it's only a part of Elise's story. I feel like this is more about what it's like to grow up and deal with all life's hurdles and the difficult decisions we have to make. And how love impacts everything.
I was so sucked in to The Wright Brother. I couldn't put it down - literally. I sat down to read it and didn't stop until I was done. I even made my boyfriend wait to go somewhere so I could finish. Because you can't stop!
I loved the way The Wright Brother is told too. It's a series of scenes that connect well, but it's not a continuous flow. I didn't expect to like that so much, because I thought I would feel like I was missing too much. But it always felt right and like I wasn't missing anything. And the scenes were so detailed, without ever feeling info-dumped. One of the things I ADORED was the way Elise and Julian communicated. Obviously they use sign-language, mixed in with some reading of lips. And though Marie didn't spell it out over and over, that's exactly what I saw every time they spoke. Except when they were using their private communication. It's something that evolves from their childhood, when Elise would put her hand in Julian's hand and spell out words. The result is that, as adults, they LITERALLY communicate through touch. They have these private conversations by touching each other and signing on each other's skin. This little detail made such a huge impact on the story. Their connection was that much deeper and that much more intimate.
And that's just one example. There's so many scenes I could gush about. I could SEE them so clearly and I'm convinced this would be a stunning film.
Concluding Sentiments...
I've categorized The Wright Brother as a Contemporary Romance because I didn't know what else to call it. But it defies categorization, I think. It's brilliant and I can't think of anyone who wouldn't love it. Read it!
I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
My Initial Reaction...
OMG the FEELS!!! Marie's done it again - maybe even outdone herself! I have a feeling I'll be gushing over The Wright Brother for weeks to come. I can't get it out of my head!
The Characters...
If you're a character driven reader, you'll adore The Wright Brother. The whole story is told from the POV of Elise and through her we see both Elise and Julian grow from childhood to adults.
What I loved most about being in Elise's head over the course of her life is seeing the way she grew as a character. Marie did such an amazing job letting us feel the same mind growing up - we start with the Elise as a child (3 years old maybe?) and with a series of time jumps we get to see her as a young child and a tween, a teenager, and then finally - where the bulk of the story is told - as a college aged girl growing into her early 20s. She struggles with growing up - like we all do. She has to make decisions and sometimes she chooses terribly wrong. Sometimes it's just her age and sometimes it's being human. Elise is so beautifully complex and I loved every minute of her.
And then there's Julian. *sigh* When we first meet Julian, he's a newborn in his crib along with his two other brothers. He's a triplet, but from birth he will be different because what we recognize (though little Elise can't quite understand what's going on at this point) is that Julian is deaf. And, as it turns out, colorblind. I think what I loved most about the way Marie wrote Julian is that he never felt like someone to pity. I think this could have been an easy trap to fall into - making his disabilities define him. But Julian is a person, as beautifully complex and flawed as anyone. And yet, she also didn't miss the ways that Julian's disabilities would change his life. They're perfectly intertwined and just feel natural - not over emphasized, but not ignored either.
There are other characters and they play their roles really well - Elise's parents, Julian's brothers and mom, and friends. They are well-written and I'd honestly love to see books for so many of these characters because even though I didn't see tons of them, I saw enough to care about them and their lives too. But this was definitely Julian and Elise's story.
The Story...
As much as The Wright Brother is a romance, it's not JUST a romance. In fact, while the romance is great, it's just a part. Because this is a story of life. And just like romance is just part of life, it's only a part of Elise's story. I feel like this is more about what it's like to grow up and deal with all life's hurdles and the difficult decisions we have to make. And how love impacts everything.
I was so sucked in to The Wright Brother. I couldn't put it down - literally. I sat down to read it and didn't stop until I was done. I even made my boyfriend wait to go somewhere so I could finish. Because you can't stop!
I loved the way The Wright Brother is told too. It's a series of scenes that connect well, but it's not a continuous flow. I didn't expect to like that so much, because I thought I would feel like I was missing too much. But it always felt right and like I wasn't missing anything. And the scenes were so detailed, without ever feeling info-dumped. One of the things I ADORED was the way Elise and Julian communicated. Obviously they use sign-language, mixed in with some reading of lips. And though Marie didn't spell it out over and over, that's exactly what I saw every time they spoke. Except when they were using their private communication. It's something that evolves from their childhood, when Elise would put her hand in Julian's hand and spell out words. The result is that, as adults, they LITERALLY communicate through touch. They have these private conversations by touching each other and signing on each other's skin. This little detail made such a huge impact on the story. Their connection was that much deeper and that much more intimate.
And that's just one example. There's so many scenes I could gush about. I could SEE them so clearly and I'm convinced this would be a stunning film.
Concluding Sentiments...
I've categorized The Wright Brother as a Contemporary Romance because I didn't know what else to call it. But it defies categorization, I think. It's brilliant and I can't think of anyone who wouldn't love it. Read it!
December 28, 2014
Love isn't always easy. It isn't always beautiful and romantic. Love takes work. It requires commitment and patience, as well as understanding and perseverance. It can be bumpy and shake the foundation of your whole being. It can require not only compromise, but sacrifices. But if it is real love, true love, it is worth all of that. It is worth fighting for and in the end, the reward is bigger than anything you could have ever anticipated.
This is the type of love that binds Elisa and Julian in Marie Hall's "The Wright Brother". Their love might have always been there, but their relationship doesn't come easy. Too many things stand in their way and the trials their love must face unfortunately are anything but few and far in between.
From the start things are complicated and difficult, partly due to their own hang-ups, partly due to the circumstances. And every time they get together, they seem to end apart again. They make mistakes on the way and hurt each other profoundly.
Yet, life without one another doesn't seem possible either. They love each other with a fierceness and passion way beyond their years. Julian always seeming more secure of their relationship. But that doesn't mean that Elisa loves him any less - hear fears are just stronger than his and she's the one that has more to lose.
Elisa is a young woman who has known the Wright brothers basically all her life - sharing many experiences with them until a tragedy struck their family. Always having felt a special bond with Julian, feelings intensify when he returns into her life. Yet, she can't get over the age difference that separates them and therefore forces her feelings aside, trying to live a life without him in it. This only leads to heartache, mistakes and bad choices, that not only hurt her and Julian, but leave others in pain as well.
Once she finally allows herself to admit her feelings, she can be really happy for the first time in her life.
But she wouldn't be a young, confused woman if she didn't unnecessarily complicate things at times. It would have been easy for me to be irritated by her and look down upon her for the mistakes she has made. But Marie Hall's writing allowed me to feel the turmoil that Elisa was feeling and suddenly it was easier to understand how she could sometimes get so lost - losing herself and the right way for her. How she could question her feeling and decisions that seemed so clear to me as a reader.
At times she was completely drowning in her emotions, not seeing clearly what was in front of her, what really mattered. It nearly took losing the only happiness she knew for her to come to her senses.
Julian on the other hand always knew what he wanted and his feelings never wavered. That doesn't mean he didn't make mistakes born from the intention to make Elisa's life easier and happier, even if it shattered his own chances at happiness. He loved Elisa with such unwavering ferocity, it took my breath away. Though younger than her, her seemed to be years ahead of her when it came to his feelings. I guess experiencing the world in such different ways than others, he was forced early to know what he wants and to fight for it. It so happened that he wanted Elisa. He never gave up the fight, knowing they are meant to be. But all the fight in the world isn't enough, if the person you fight for isn't willing to fight as well. So despite his love, he learns that sometimes you have to let someone go, for them to come back to you.
Both characters were unique, just like people are in real life. They could live next door to you or me. Elisa, the goody-good girl with competitive swimming as her passion and the perfect parents in a perfect home was such a contrast to Julian, the boy whose life was a challenge from the start and who experienced a tragic loss that shaped him. A young man that doesn't comply to the rules, instead dares to be who he is - a nice guy with a wild side, with tattoos, piercings in the most delicious places and a passion for life.
In my opinion their love story is epic. And if you want to know if there is a reward at the end of their journey, you better get reading.
5+ epic love-story stars.
This is the type of love that binds Elisa and Julian in Marie Hall's "The Wright Brother". Their love might have always been there, but their relationship doesn't come easy. Too many things stand in their way and the trials their love must face unfortunately are anything but few and far in between.
From the start things are complicated and difficult, partly due to their own hang-ups, partly due to the circumstances. And every time they get together, they seem to end apart again. They make mistakes on the way and hurt each other profoundly.
Yet, life without one another doesn't seem possible either. They love each other with a fierceness and passion way beyond their years. Julian always seeming more secure of their relationship. But that doesn't mean that Elisa loves him any less - hear fears are just stronger than his and she's the one that has more to lose.
Elisa is a young woman who has known the Wright brothers basically all her life - sharing many experiences with them until a tragedy struck their family. Always having felt a special bond with Julian, feelings intensify when he returns into her life. Yet, she can't get over the age difference that separates them and therefore forces her feelings aside, trying to live a life without him in it. This only leads to heartache, mistakes and bad choices, that not only hurt her and Julian, but leave others in pain as well.
Once she finally allows herself to admit her feelings, she can be really happy for the first time in her life.
But she wouldn't be a young, confused woman if she didn't unnecessarily complicate things at times. It would have been easy for me to be irritated by her and look down upon her for the mistakes she has made. But Marie Hall's writing allowed me to feel the turmoil that Elisa was feeling and suddenly it was easier to understand how she could sometimes get so lost - losing herself and the right way for her. How she could question her feeling and decisions that seemed so clear to me as a reader.
At times she was completely drowning in her emotions, not seeing clearly what was in front of her, what really mattered. It nearly took losing the only happiness she knew for her to come to her senses.
Julian on the other hand always knew what he wanted and his feelings never wavered. That doesn't mean he didn't make mistakes born from the intention to make Elisa's life easier and happier, even if it shattered his own chances at happiness. He loved Elisa with such unwavering ferocity, it took my breath away. Though younger than her, her seemed to be years ahead of her when it came to his feelings. I guess experiencing the world in such different ways than others, he was forced early to know what he wants and to fight for it. It so happened that he wanted Elisa. He never gave up the fight, knowing they are meant to be. But all the fight in the world isn't enough, if the person you fight for isn't willing to fight as well. So despite his love, he learns that sometimes you have to let someone go, for them to come back to you.
Both characters were unique, just like people are in real life. They could live next door to you or me. Elisa, the goody-good girl with competitive swimming as her passion and the perfect parents in a perfect home was such a contrast to Julian, the boy whose life was a challenge from the start and who experienced a tragic loss that shaped him. A young man that doesn't comply to the rules, instead dares to be who he is - a nice guy with a wild side, with tattoos, piercings in the most delicious places and a passion for life.
In my opinion their love story is epic. And if you want to know if there is a reward at the end of their journey, you better get reading.
5+ epic love-story stars.
February 8, 2015
Although Julian, the male lead, is colorblind, ‘The Wright Brother’ is nevertheless a book filled with color and emotion. As Ms. Hall writes for Julian, “When I look at you, it’s like I can see the colors…” Even though Julian is colorblind as well as deaf, he is as motivated and successful as Elisa, his female counterpart. Elisa is strong, caring, intelligent, and successful. She and Julian grew up together and are perfect for each other. So perfect that they even have their own form of communication! I loved how Elisa and Julian loved each other. It was a sweet and enduring love, and in the end, their love overcame many obstacles bring them to a mature and lasting relationship!
In fact, the mature insights on life were my very favorite part of this story. For instance, here are some of my favorite quotes:
“Love is not an emotion, it’s a choice.”
“Destiny is no matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, but a thing to be achieved.”
I not only totally agree with these assertions, but I feel like it takes a very mature outlook on life in order to truly understand that love is not just a fleeting emotion, but takes compromise, work, and commitment. I applaud Ms. Hall for demonstrating this important concept in ‘The Wright Brother’.
I loved the maturity of the story, and would have loved to have read the story from dual points of view. In reading the synopsis, I thought maybe this would be the case. However, the story is written in 3rd person and mostly follows Elisa throughout. I just wanted a little more, from Julian’s point of view!
The timing could be a little difficult at times as it stayed put for a while, then jumped ahead unpredictably. However, the jumps in time were labeled, and I liked that Ms. Hall gave readers glimpses of the whole span of Julian and Elisa’s relationship, from childhood on.
Overall, I really loved how Ms. Hall weaved together a sweet, romantic relationship with mature and important insights on life and love!
**A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review**
In fact, the mature insights on life were my very favorite part of this story. For instance, here are some of my favorite quotes:
“Love is not an emotion, it’s a choice.”
“Destiny is no matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, but a thing to be achieved.”
I not only totally agree with these assertions, but I feel like it takes a very mature outlook on life in order to truly understand that love is not just a fleeting emotion, but takes compromise, work, and commitment. I applaud Ms. Hall for demonstrating this important concept in ‘The Wright Brother’.
I loved the maturity of the story, and would have loved to have read the story from dual points of view. In reading the synopsis, I thought maybe this would be the case. However, the story is written in 3rd person and mostly follows Elisa throughout. I just wanted a little more, from Julian’s point of view!
The timing could be a little difficult at times as it stayed put for a while, then jumped ahead unpredictably. However, the jumps in time were labeled, and I liked that Ms. Hall gave readers glimpses of the whole span of Julian and Elisa’s relationship, from childhood on.
Overall, I really loved how Ms. Hall weaved together a sweet, romantic relationship with mature and important insights on life and love!
**A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review**
October 24, 2015
So much manufactured drama it became ridiculous. The characters meet when they are kids. Then the hero's dad passes away and moves away. Nine years later, they move back to town. This had a great premise with Julian being a triplet and was deaf and color blind. I loved how in the beginning Elisa and Julian were friends and had their own "language", but my love for the book stopped when the story fast forwarded 9 years. The execution was awful!
When they finally get together at 50% (on the mark), I thought finally as a reader I am going to see and feel the connection, but it is always something with this heroine. Elisa is the immature, annoying heroine that gets on my nerves. AND I got it...she was an athlete, a swimmer. I do not have to be reminded in every chapter about her athletic swimmer's body. I love when the heroine's are athletes and work hard, but I could not stand Elisa and her comments.
This is my first book by Marie Hall - now do all her books drag like this one? Are all of them filled with manufactured drama? The back and forth, and the "I love him, but we can't be together because of the age difference" was ridiculous. The way the heroine talked, I thought that there was a huge age gap between them, but she is only 2 years and some months older than Julian. She would say things like "I am an old lady compared to you" and other things that made no sense. Just awkward. I think her mother or Julian's mother points out that when she will be 30, he will only be 28 and it is not a big deal.
Maybe this story should not have been written in third person - Elisa's POV. In the beginning, I had no idea who was the heroine and whose thoughts I was reading.
And why did she have to point out that she was going to lose her virginity to Tom, her boyfriend?!?!? More manufactured drama.
When they finally get together at 50% (on the mark), I thought finally as a reader I am going to see and feel the connection, but it is always something with this heroine. Elisa is the immature, annoying heroine that gets on my nerves. AND I got it...she was an athlete, a swimmer. I do not have to be reminded in every chapter about her athletic swimmer's body. I love when the heroine's are athletes and work hard, but I could not stand Elisa and her comments.
This is my first book by Marie Hall - now do all her books drag like this one? Are all of them filled with manufactured drama? The back and forth, and the "I love him, but we can't be together because of the age difference" was ridiculous. The way the heroine talked, I thought that there was a huge age gap between them, but she is only 2 years and some months older than Julian. She would say things like "I am an old lady compared to you" and other things that made no sense. Just awkward. I think her mother or Julian's mother points out that when she will be 30, he will only be 28 and it is not a big deal.
Maybe this story should not have been written in third person - Elisa's POV. In the beginning, I had no idea who was the heroine and whose thoughts I was reading.
And why did she have to point out that she was going to lose her virginity to Tom, her boyfriend?!?!? More manufactured drama.
February 24, 2015
2.5-3 stars
I signed up for a complimentary copy of this through a "read it and review it" thread on Goodreads; the blurb intrigued me because it seemed to offer a uniqueness that many current romance reads lack.
Unfortunately, this one just didn't work for me. In fact, it was so angsty (which isn't something I handle very well) that I actually had to read it in two halves: I read through the first 51% in one sitting and was so emotionally exhausted that I took a week-long break from it before tackling the rest. (I was so anxious at one point that I sweated through an outfit and broke out in hives...not a flattering look for me.)
Granted, I did like Julian. From his looks to his disposition and talent, he is the novel's most memorable and redeeming factor. On the contrary, I did not care for the heroine because she made things WAY more difficult than they had to be. To some degree I was torn. Because I liked Julian, I wanted to see him get his HEA...but at the same time, I thought he deserved better than Elisa.
I'll have you know that I write all of this with a heavy sigh. I hate having to give anything other than glowing reviews to authors and/or publishers who've provided complimentary copies for review. Nevertheless, I'm committed to being honest regarding my reading experience.
Final thoughts: I completely see where this might work for other readers, it just wasn't for me.
I signed up for a complimentary copy of this through a "read it and review it" thread on Goodreads; the blurb intrigued me because it seemed to offer a uniqueness that many current romance reads lack.
Unfortunately, this one just didn't work for me. In fact, it was so angsty (which isn't something I handle very well) that I actually had to read it in two halves: I read through the first 51% in one sitting and was so emotionally exhausted that I took a week-long break from it before tackling the rest. (I was so anxious at one point that I sweated through an outfit and broke out in hives...not a flattering look for me.)
Granted, I did like Julian. From his looks to his disposition and talent, he is the novel's most memorable and redeeming factor. On the contrary, I did not care for the heroine because she made things WAY more difficult than they had to be. To some degree I was torn. Because I liked Julian, I wanted to see him get his HEA...but at the same time, I thought he deserved better than Elisa.
I'll have you know that I write all of this with a heavy sigh. I hate having to give anything other than glowing reviews to authors and/or publishers who've provided complimentary copies for review. Nevertheless, I'm committed to being honest regarding my reading experience.
Final thoughts: I completely see where this might work for other readers, it just wasn't for me.
October 26, 2014
4 to 4,5 stars.
If you like romance with a beautiful but different hero, this could be for you. I truly enjoyed my read. It had the right balance of love, angst, friendship and real life.
Julian is strong and fragile in his unwavering love for Elisa. He is hot but he also is the "handicapped" kid. He touched me deeply as I have a soft spot for flawed heroes.
What I did love was his determination to have a normal life. He never let his difference get in his way. He had a goal in life and worked hard to attain it.
Elisa is fierce when it comes to Julian. She hates when other kids mock him. She is brave and would risk her life to protect Julian. But she also is frightened by her feelings and does not want to face them at first. She runs, turns her back on him.
I like when characters are in shades of grey and come with flaws, like everybody does.
This story is not without bumps in the road, this is real life but it never came as too overwhelming to me. Their love was touching and it evolved from the innocence of childhood to adulthood. With some stories, I sometimes have to put the book aside just to breathe.
This was not the case and I was happy with it because it was what I needed to read at that time.
So this story was sweet, sad, nostalgic, sometimes hot and felt like hot chocolate on a rainy day.
If you like romance with a beautiful but different hero, this could be for you. I truly enjoyed my read. It had the right balance of love, angst, friendship and real life.
Julian is strong and fragile in his unwavering love for Elisa. He is hot but he also is the "handicapped" kid. He touched me deeply as I have a soft spot for flawed heroes.
What I did love was his determination to have a normal life. He never let his difference get in his way. He had a goal in life and worked hard to attain it.
Elisa is fierce when it comes to Julian. She hates when other kids mock him. She is brave and would risk her life to protect Julian. But she also is frightened by her feelings and does not want to face them at first. She runs, turns her back on him.
I like when characters are in shades of grey and come with flaws, like everybody does.
This story is not without bumps in the road, this is real life but it never came as too overwhelming to me. Their love was touching and it evolved from the innocence of childhood to adulthood. With some stories, I sometimes have to put the book aside just to breathe.
This was not the case and I was happy with it because it was what I needed to read at that time.
So this story was sweet, sad, nostalgic, sometimes hot and felt like hot chocolate on a rainy day.
September 3, 2014
I received this book from the author and from Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock.
I really enjoyed the way Julian and Elisa's story unfolds. It takes you from the beginning where Elisa is just three and Julian a newborn to their mid twenties. Along the way things happen that makes hard for them to be around each other let alone get together, even without the age gap.
Julian was a complex character and the author did a great job of portraying a boy who could overcome his own obstacles to become the man he wanted to be. Elisa had to learn and grow, and sometimes I found this hard to read.
All in all though, I really enjoyed the Wright brother and am looking forward to learning more about the other brothers. I'm going to give this five fangs and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a challenging coming of age type romance.
I really enjoyed the way Julian and Elisa's story unfolds. It takes you from the beginning where Elisa is just three and Julian a newborn to their mid twenties. Along the way things happen that makes hard for them to be around each other let alone get together, even without the age gap.
Julian was a complex character and the author did a great job of portraying a boy who could overcome his own obstacles to become the man he wanted to be. Elisa had to learn and grow, and sometimes I found this hard to read.
All in all though, I really enjoyed the Wright brother and am looking forward to learning more about the other brothers. I'm going to give this five fangs and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a challenging coming of age type romance.
September 21, 2014
2.5 stars
Hot and cold. Elisa was always leaving Julian behind. It was a relief when she finally got it right.
Hot and cold. Elisa was always leaving Julian behind. It was a relief when she finally got it right.
November 26, 2015
This book was quick read, but I felt that the main characters were difficult to buy into. I actually enjoyed the pacing, but the end was very rushed and unrealistic.
October 3, 2016
H&h are with other people when they first get together. Later in this book h experience's some heat with another man and doubt's her long distance relationship with H! Free with kindle unlimited!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2015
My Review:
So this book was picked for me by Berls at Fantasy is more fun. She had told me how amazing it was and was pretty much holding a shotgun for me to read it, seriously hope she still loves me after my review.
I don’t know what I was expecting but from the synopsis I was looking forward to reading this book through both Julian and Elisa eyes. That is not what I got, this story was only the POV of Elisa and I just wasn’t a very big fan of her. I wanted to like her but her obsession with age was making me mental. Julian was 2 years (YES ONLY 2 YEARS) younger than her and she was so hung up on it that she mentions it more often than I would have liked, she also had a thing about repeating the same stuff OVER AND OVER again though out the book. Like his tattoos, his physical appearance the fact that he was unable to see in color or hear.
I honestly loved Julian’s brothers, Julian seemed like such a weak person he handled things like a toddler and would throw fits or just be mature about certain issues. I thought with all that has happened to him he would be a lot stronger to prove himself that his difference didn’t make him any different then anyone else.
The story was slow, I wasn’t sure what I was expecting there either, Elisa made one of the worst decisions EVER. I understand sort of why she thought she needed to go but there was NOTHING there for her, it totally made no sense. Not good money, no family and no friends, it was just odd.
I was really hoping I would like this book but it just had so many issues that didn’t work for me. The age thing was my biggest problem and even after he turned 18 she was still harping on what would happen when she graduated and he was still in school, it was frustrating, if you love someone as much as they did each other you would make it work and not choose the stupidest life changing experience and then totally regret it because it made things harder. I understand that don’t make sense but I don’t want to give it away.
Like I said I wanted to like this book and be all emotional like everyone else was when reading this but the Wright Brothers and I just didn’t hit it off like I was hoping.
I believe that you totally should give it a shot, just because I wasn’t happy with it doesn’t mean you wont be so read and enjoy and let me know what you thing when you do. :)
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
So this book was picked for me by Berls at Fantasy is more fun. She had told me how amazing it was and was pretty much holding a shotgun for me to read it, seriously hope she still loves me after my review.
Of course I still love you. Bummed you didn't love it -
maybe I set it up too much?
I don’t know what I was expecting but from the synopsis I was looking forward to reading this book through both Julian and Elisa eyes. That is not what I got, this story was only the POV of Elisa and I just wasn’t a very big fan of her. I wanted to like her but her obsession with age was making me mental. Julian was 2 years (YES ONLY 2 YEARS) younger than her and she was so hung up on it that she mentions it more often than I would have liked, she also had a thing about repeating the same stuff OVER AND OVER again though out the book. Like his tattoos, his physical appearance the fact that he was unable to see in color or hear.
I think this didn't bother me like it did you because I remember being equally hung up about a 2 year age difference at this age. So to me, it felt very age appropriate.
I honestly loved Julian’s brothers, Julian seemed like such a weak person he handled things like a toddler and would throw fits or just be mature about certain issues. I thought with all that has happened to him he would be a lot stronger to prove himself that his difference didn’t make him any different then anyone else.
The story was slow, I wasn’t sure what I was expecting there either, Elisa made one of the worst decisions EVER. I understand sort of why she thought she needed to go but there was NOTHING there for her, it totally made no sense. Not good money, no family and no friends, it was just odd.
Again, I got this because I made a similar mistake following career and what I thought was a passion - young and ambitious thinking its worth everything. :/
I was really hoping I would like this book but it just had so many issues that didn’t work for me. The age thing was my biggest problem and even after he turned 18 she was still harping on what would happen when she graduated and he was still in school, it was frustrating, if you love someone as much as they did each other you would make it work and not choose the stupidest life changing experience and then totally regret it because it made things harder. I understand that don’t make sense but I don’t want to give it away.
Like I said I wanted to like this book and be all emotional like everyone else was when reading this but the Wright Brothers and I just didn’t hit it off like I was hoping.
I believe that you totally should give it a shot, just because I wasn’t happy with it doesn’t mean you wont be so read and enjoy and let me know what you thing when you do. :)
Yes, read it! Sorry you didn't love it like I did Michelle :)
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This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
August 29, 2015
I was quite excited for The Wright Brother, because New Adult, deaf hero, years of longing! It totally sounded like my thing. Sadly, I couldn't stand Elisa, and the story felt so long and drawn out because it covers over 20 years! Elisa grew up next door to the Wright family, and the boys were like her brothers. She did get closest to Julian because he tended to stay back, so she stayed with him. Of course, that brotherly love had to evolve into something else over the years.
The Wright Brother and I got off to a rough start because of the structure of the story. I went in expecting a reunion and then the romance. Instead it starts when Elisa is a toddler and the Wright triplets were just born. Then there's a chapter when she's 7 and they're 5. Then it jumps to when she's 10, then when she's 18 and tells Julian that they can't happen. Finally, she's 19 and going off to college. I really could have done without all of this extensive back history. Sure, it shows us what things were like for them in the past, but simple flashbacks could have sufficed. Instead I was bored and waiting for the meat of the story to start. I did enjoy the college bits, but then it goes beyond college and I got bored again.
About Elisa being a year older than is typical when she goes to college: her parents held her back a grade! Not because she was failing or some other academic reason, but so her father "could concentrate on his training, without forcing her mother to stay home because of Elisa being in school (pg 16)." What does that even mean? How is keeping her back a grade changing the fact that she's already in school? I really do not understand this, but I think it was to close the gap between Eliza and Julian a bit. She may be three years older, but only two grades ahead, which makes it more acceptable? The age thing was brought up a lot, like it's the biggest deal in the universe. She's even called a pedophile at one point when she's 20 and he's 18.
It was also really hard for me to like Elisa. She's just so...I can't think of a word for her. But she was always so surprised by things Julian does because he's deaf and color blind, and not because she hadn't seen him for 9 years at one point. She doesn't understand why he wears band t-shirts because he can't hear the music. She's surprised (and embarrassed) when she learns that he can read lips. She's surprised that he's legally allowed to drive! And he wants to be an artist?! Gasp! Girl, get a clue! Being deaf and color blind doesn't make him some alien. He's still a person and is capable of things. All it means is that he can't hear or see certain colors. I got super annoyed with Elisa fast because of this. Of course, there's also her obsession with their ages, which she admits wouldn't be a problem if she were the younger one. Uh huh.
The Wright Brother was just kind of frustrating for me. It's never a good sign when you hate the main character. Although I did appreciate her going after her dream and not being held back by Julian. I absolutely hate when that happens in romances! Sure, that part of the story almost bored me to tears, but I'm still glad that Elisa went after what she wanted even if it didn't work out. I just wish this one had worked out for me.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
The Wright Brother and I got off to a rough start because of the structure of the story. I went in expecting a reunion and then the romance. Instead it starts when Elisa is a toddler and the Wright triplets were just born. Then there's a chapter when she's 7 and they're 5. Then it jumps to when she's 10, then when she's 18 and tells Julian that they can't happen. Finally, she's 19 and going off to college. I really could have done without all of this extensive back history. Sure, it shows us what things were like for them in the past, but simple flashbacks could have sufficed. Instead I was bored and waiting for the meat of the story to start. I did enjoy the college bits, but then it goes beyond college and I got bored again.
About Elisa being a year older than is typical when she goes to college: her parents held her back a grade! Not because she was failing or some other academic reason, but so her father "could concentrate on his training, without forcing her mother to stay home because of Elisa being in school (pg 16)." What does that even mean? How is keeping her back a grade changing the fact that she's already in school? I really do not understand this, but I think it was to close the gap between Eliza and Julian a bit. She may be three years older, but only two grades ahead, which makes it more acceptable? The age thing was brought up a lot, like it's the biggest deal in the universe. She's even called a pedophile at one point when she's 20 and he's 18.
It was also really hard for me to like Elisa. She's just so...I can't think of a word for her. But she was always so surprised by things Julian does because he's deaf and color blind, and not because she hadn't seen him for 9 years at one point. She doesn't understand why he wears band t-shirts because he can't hear the music. She's surprised (and embarrassed) when she learns that he can read lips. She's surprised that he's legally allowed to drive! And he wants to be an artist?! Gasp! Girl, get a clue! Being deaf and color blind doesn't make him some alien. He's still a person and is capable of things. All it means is that he can't hear or see certain colors. I got super annoyed with Elisa fast because of this. Of course, there's also her obsession with their ages, which she admits wouldn't be a problem if she were the younger one. Uh huh.
The Wright Brother was just kind of frustrating for me. It's never a good sign when you hate the main character. Although I did appreciate her going after her dream and not being held back by Julian. I absolutely hate when that happens in romances! Sure, that part of the story almost bored me to tears, but I'm still glad that Elisa went after what she wanted even if it didn't work out. I just wish this one had worked out for me.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
February 25, 2015
This was a fantastic NA read which has had me going through a rollercoaster of emotions along with the two main characters. It was a quick and easy read that I fell in love with from the first page; I very much enjoy reading books by this author.
The main characters are Elisa and Julian; they have been friends their whole life since Julian was born. Always the brother of three who struggled due to his deafness and colour blindness Julian found it difficult to connect with anyone; anyone except Elisa that is. Elisa has always been connected to Julian in a way no one really knows; when a death in Julian’s family tares them apart she is unsure of when or if they will see each other again. When Julian’s family returns to be Elisa’s next door neighbours, when both of them are older and at secondary school sparks fly; however with Elisa a few years older than Julian she doesn’t feel she should get involved. This is a common theme throughout this book, an undeniable attraction between the two characters with neither one of them being able to say how they truly feel or commit to each other. I found these two main characters and their situation very real and great to read about since I could imagine it happening to anyone.
The secondary characters include Julian’s mother, Lori as well as his two brothers, Christian and Roman; also Elisa’s friend from college Chastity. Lori is throughout this book a supporting character for both Julian and Elisa, she is also very much an overprotective mother. Christian and Roman are the cocky older brothers who kind of excel at everything and think they’re going to be a hit with the ladies; I feel they both had their eye on Elisa at one point in the book and honestly I don’t think either of them were a bad match for her but Julian was better. Chastity is probably the first female friend Elisa has so she is a huge influence in Elisa’s life helping her with important girly things like make-up. There are a whole host of other secondary characters not mentioned in this review but that is because I felt these ones were most noteworthy.
The pacing of the book was brilliant leaving it until the very last minute to tell us the fate of the two main characters which I had been rooting for since the very first mention of them. I also liked the epilogue telling us the true outcome of the couple in the book.
The storyline was brilliantly original and very believable with the author adding in some very real life situations for the characters to deal with. I would love to read more books like this in a series, maybe learning the romantic outcomes of Christian and Roman.
A very good read 4.5 stars.
The main characters are Elisa and Julian; they have been friends their whole life since Julian was born. Always the brother of three who struggled due to his deafness and colour blindness Julian found it difficult to connect with anyone; anyone except Elisa that is. Elisa has always been connected to Julian in a way no one really knows; when a death in Julian’s family tares them apart she is unsure of when or if they will see each other again. When Julian’s family returns to be Elisa’s next door neighbours, when both of them are older and at secondary school sparks fly; however with Elisa a few years older than Julian she doesn’t feel she should get involved. This is a common theme throughout this book, an undeniable attraction between the two characters with neither one of them being able to say how they truly feel or commit to each other. I found these two main characters and their situation very real and great to read about since I could imagine it happening to anyone.
The secondary characters include Julian’s mother, Lori as well as his two brothers, Christian and Roman; also Elisa’s friend from college Chastity. Lori is throughout this book a supporting character for both Julian and Elisa, she is also very much an overprotective mother. Christian and Roman are the cocky older brothers who kind of excel at everything and think they’re going to be a hit with the ladies; I feel they both had their eye on Elisa at one point in the book and honestly I don’t think either of them were a bad match for her but Julian was better. Chastity is probably the first female friend Elisa has so she is a huge influence in Elisa’s life helping her with important girly things like make-up. There are a whole host of other secondary characters not mentioned in this review but that is because I felt these ones were most noteworthy.
The pacing of the book was brilliant leaving it until the very last minute to tell us the fate of the two main characters which I had been rooting for since the very first mention of them. I also liked the epilogue telling us the true outcome of the couple in the book.
The storyline was brilliantly original and very believable with the author adding in some very real life situations for the characters to deal with. I would love to read more books like this in a series, maybe learning the romantic outcomes of Christian and Roman.
A very good read 4.5 stars.
December 8, 2014
From the first moment Elise Adrian laid eyes on Julian Wright she knew he was different. Julian was one of triplet boys born to Elise's neighbor. Born color blind and deaf, Julian has always been in his own world. That is until Elise is around. Their bond is instantaneous. That grows as they grow. An unfortunate tragedy takes the Wright's to another city.Time passes and the Wright's return. Julian once again consumes Elise's thoughts. She keeps him at arms length, feigning he's more like a brother. Using the excuse of their age difference to keep them in the "friend zone". Elise moves to college. Keeping in contact via email and short visits home for holiday's and summers. Until Julian's 18th birthday. Then it turns no holds barred. Julian makes his mutual feelings more than well known...
Not only did I fall in love with Julian. I fell for his brother's. The camaraderie between them and Elise made me laugh out loud. The connection of family isn't always blood. It goes beyond that. It's the people who accept you for who you are. Flaws and all, and still choose to stay in your life. All 3 boys are fiercely protective for Elise...even from each other.
There's so much I liked about this tale. Not only the morale of it. The realism of how relationships should work. Be it family or friends there's a lot to say about communication. "True love is so much more that sexual chemistry or attraction. True love is finding a mate who is as devoted to you as you are to them. Who will hold your hand through the good and the bad. Who will love you even though you've begun to age, started to wrinkle, when your looks are no longer what they once were." That pretty much sums it up. Often times we're our own worst enemy, critic, judge, and executioner.
It's soothing to read a story that strongly conveys the concept of unconditional love. In a era of; "if you're unhappy, cut and run". Unconditional love has become a lot like the unicorn. Legendary but hard to obtain. I give this book 5 stars. I'm looking forward to hearing more from the Wright Brother's.
Not only did I fall in love with Julian. I fell for his brother's. The camaraderie between them and Elise made me laugh out loud. The connection of family isn't always blood. It goes beyond that. It's the people who accept you for who you are. Flaws and all, and still choose to stay in your life. All 3 boys are fiercely protective for Elise...even from each other.
There's so much I liked about this tale. Not only the morale of it. The realism of how relationships should work. Be it family or friends there's a lot to say about communication. "True love is so much more that sexual chemistry or attraction. True love is finding a mate who is as devoted to you as you are to them. Who will hold your hand through the good and the bad. Who will love you even though you've begun to age, started to wrinkle, when your looks are no longer what they once were." That pretty much sums it up. Often times we're our own worst enemy, critic, judge, and executioner.
It's soothing to read a story that strongly conveys the concept of unconditional love. In a era of; "if you're unhappy, cut and run". Unconditional love has become a lot like the unicorn. Legendary but hard to obtain. I give this book 5 stars. I'm looking forward to hearing more from the Wright Brother's.
February 6, 2015
This book is amazing. I love reading childhood friends-turned-lovers stories and this book has jumped to the top of my favourites list in this genre.
I could empathize with Elisa in her battle over doing the (w)right thing with Julian while they were younger. I know that a two year and five month age difference doesn't seem like a huge age-gap but if you remember when you were in high school and college/university it actually is an issue really. Being a female, dating younger than you always seemed strange in society correct? Also being a sophomore girl university dating a senior guy in high school would look strange no? Her struggle with her feelings for Julian killed me. I could feel her desperation to get over him and how much it hurt. It isn't easy to try to walk away from something/someone you truly want just because you think it's for the best. I would get the Selena Gomez song The Heart Wants What It Wants in my head reading thing story.
Julian. Oh Julian. What a great character you are. For him to love as deeply as he does for Elisa is what every female strives for. I love that he never wanted to give her up but understood later why she was always keeping him at an arms length away. My heart shattered for both of them a few times. These two had been through so much that all you could do was just hope that they would find their way. I love their connection, the way that they had their own way to communicate that seemed strange to others around them. Oh I just love these two so much.
I know people don't like book comparisons (and I am one of those people) but I would just say if you like Archer's Voice then I think you would absolutely love The Wright Brother.
I could empathize with Elisa in her battle over doing the (w)right thing with Julian while they were younger. I know that a two year and five month age difference doesn't seem like a huge age-gap but if you remember when you were in high school and college/university it actually is an issue really. Being a female, dating younger than you always seemed strange in society correct? Also being a sophomore girl university dating a senior guy in high school would look strange no? Her struggle with her feelings for Julian killed me. I could feel her desperation to get over him and how much it hurt. It isn't easy to try to walk away from something/someone you truly want just because you think it's for the best. I would get the Selena Gomez song The Heart Wants What It Wants in my head reading thing story.
Julian. Oh Julian. What a great character you are. For him to love as deeply as he does for Elisa is what every female strives for. I love that he never wanted to give her up but understood later why she was always keeping him at an arms length away. My heart shattered for both of them a few times. These two had been through so much that all you could do was just hope that they would find their way. I love their connection, the way that they had their own way to communicate that seemed strange to others around them. Oh I just love these two so much.
I know people don't like book comparisons (and I am one of those people) but I would just say if you like Archer's Voice then I think you would absolutely love The Wright Brother.
September 24, 2014
This was my first Marie Hall book but I'm definitely going to try to read more of her books.
The Wright Brother was simply amazing. I squealed and laughed so much while reading this book. The awkwardness and funniness of this story was so entertaining. I enjoyed it immensely. I'm so glad that it was written.
I love when a love story is not your typical love story. Love is hard and it takes work everyday to overcome the obstacles that love can bring. I'm never surprised by what we have to go through for true love. Elisa and Julian showed us that truth, all throughout the story. Sometimes love doesn't make sense, but if love was easy, then everyone, everywhere, would just walk around in love. This book showed that love isn't easy. It takes hard work and dedication. I loved reading this.
Elisa and Julian had to go through obstacle after obstacle, so that they could be together. Julian had his own personal trials to go through in life, and through it all, he wanted Elisa right there beside him. Elisa often doubted what she and Julian could really be to each other, but I was so relieved when she finally let love happen.
Overall I had to give it a five star rating. It was so well written. The author did an amazing job telling their story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a great love story.
The Wright Brother was simply amazing. I squealed and laughed so much while reading this book. The awkwardness and funniness of this story was so entertaining. I enjoyed it immensely. I'm so glad that it was written.
I love when a love story is not your typical love story. Love is hard and it takes work everyday to overcome the obstacles that love can bring. I'm never surprised by what we have to go through for true love. Elisa and Julian showed us that truth, all throughout the story. Sometimes love doesn't make sense, but if love was easy, then everyone, everywhere, would just walk around in love. This book showed that love isn't easy. It takes hard work and dedication. I loved reading this.
Elisa and Julian had to go through obstacle after obstacle, so that they could be together. Julian had his own personal trials to go through in life, and through it all, he wanted Elisa right there beside him. Elisa often doubted what she and Julian could really be to each other, but I was so relieved when she finally let love happen.
Overall I had to give it a five star rating. It was so well written. The author did an amazing job telling their story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a great love story.
April 21, 2015
I’m not sure if I’m the only one feeling this way but I thought it was just okay. Reading the synopsis I was thinking that the book was going to be told in a dual pov but sadly it wasn’t and for this one I think that we needed to know what was going on inside of Julian's mind. Elisa got on my last nerves the going back and forth with her feelings/non feelings for Julian just became too much for me. It was Julian that made the book for me I thought that he was just fabulous and I wanted more from him. At times I found myself confused on what was their location. At one point I thought it was in another country and then I thought it was in the US i was so lost. There was just something missing with this and I couldn’t put my finger on it. I also wonder what happened with Julian's brother’s one minute their there and then you hear nothing from them. So with that I wonder if they be getting a book on their own and if we get a book told from Julian pov.
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