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Where the Staircase Ends
After her best friend orchestrates the lie that destroys her reputation, Taylor wants more than anything to disappear from her life. But when an accident turns this unspoken wish into reality, instead of an angel-filled afterlife, Taylor must climb a seemingly endless staircase into the sky.
Instead of going up, the journey plunges her into the past. As she unravels the mystery behind her friend’s betrayal, she must face the truth about life and find the strength to forgive the unforgivable -- unless the staircase breaks her first.
Instead of going up, the journey plunges her into the past. As she unravels the mystery behind her friend’s betrayal, she must face the truth about life and find the strength to forgive the unforgivable -- unless the staircase breaks her first.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2015
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2467 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
April 15, 2015
"In its place stood a giant stone staircase, clawing upward so the sky split into an endless stack of right angles. I couldn’t see where it ended. It just went on and on, up and up, until my neck couldn’t bend any farther and I lost sight of its climb"
I went to reading this book without even knowing what's it about. So for you who doesn't read blurbs like me because you're wonderfully weird that way.. I'll tell you what the book is about. Is it about family? Yes. About friendship? Absolutely YES. About love? Yes yes yes. In short, Where the Staircase Ends is a little bit of everything.
WTSE is one of the most character driven book I've ever read. It focuses on Taylor. She's hurting and just like everyone that has been on her position, she just wants it to stop. Or maybe to disappear for awhile. And she got it. But instead of angels or big fluffy clouds, what's waiting for her is a never ending staircase. And because the end point cannot be seen, Taylor doesn't have any choice but to go forward and climb it. One small twist, she can't look behind.
Its stunning how the book was constructed. The idea behind the story is just brilliant and Stacey Stokes just executed it beautifully. Though Taylor and me didn't get on a smooth start, I slowly felt for her and when everything that made her who she is was shown, I understood. Bits of Taylor's life was so relatable for me and you'll be surprised that some parts of her life would be the same with you too. This is why I'm so impressed with this story, there's something for everybody.
I also want to give Stacy a hug for making Taylor and Sunny's relationship as bestfriend so realistic. In my opinion, this is where the book was truly focused. Through their relationship, we saw how Taylor changed. Through the flashbacks, we saw how they became best friends in the first place and how they drifted apart.. And how everything has a reason and why it needs to happen.
Though the romance wasnt a main focus, for me, I'm gonna comment about that too. The truth is, I don't know what to feel about it. Its clear who I should root for (who should every readers should root for) but I kinda understood the other guy too and I can't help but feel for him!! This is really not a love triangle, but there IS another guy. What I feel towards is not really clear yet but I'm at peace by how everything ended so I guess I liked it.
Where the Staircase Ends is truly an unforgettable experience. It made me think if I had my own staircase, where would it end? And I love how this book has a message for everybody. Stacey Stokes gained a new fan and obviously that's me. And because I like you guys that I'm recommending it.
I went to reading this book without even knowing what's it about. So for you who doesn't read blurbs like me because you're wonderfully weird that way.. I'll tell you what the book is about. Is it about family? Yes. About friendship? Absolutely YES. About love? Yes yes yes. In short, Where the Staircase Ends is a little bit of everything.
WTSE is one of the most character driven book I've ever read. It focuses on Taylor. She's hurting and just like everyone that has been on her position, she just wants it to stop. Or maybe to disappear for awhile. And she got it. But instead of angels or big fluffy clouds, what's waiting for her is a never ending staircase. And because the end point cannot be seen, Taylor doesn't have any choice but to go forward and climb it. One small twist, she can't look behind.
Its stunning how the book was constructed. The idea behind the story is just brilliant and Stacey Stokes just executed it beautifully. Though Taylor and me didn't get on a smooth start, I slowly felt for her and when everything that made her who she is was shown, I understood. Bits of Taylor's life was so relatable for me and you'll be surprised that some parts of her life would be the same with you too. This is why I'm so impressed with this story, there's something for everybody.
I also want to give Stacy a hug for making Taylor and Sunny's relationship as bestfriend so realistic. In my opinion, this is where the book was truly focused. Through their relationship, we saw how Taylor changed. Through the flashbacks, we saw how they became best friends in the first place and how they drifted apart.. And how everything has a reason and why it needs to happen.
Though the romance wasnt a main focus, for me, I'm gonna comment about that too. The truth is, I don't know what to feel about it. Its clear who I should root for (who should every readers should root for) but I kinda understood the other guy too and I can't help but feel for him!! This is really not a love triangle, but there IS another guy. What I feel towards is not really clear yet but I'm at peace by how everything ended so I guess I liked it.
Where the Staircase Ends is truly an unforgettable experience. It made me think if I had my own staircase, where would it end? And I love how this book has a message for everybody. Stacey Stokes gained a new fan and obviously that's me. And because I like you guys that I'm recommending it.
April 20, 2015
My Review:
Have you ever had an immediate hang over from a book? Like words escape you and you can’t even think about picking up another book even if you wanted or had too? Just writing the review makes you feel like no matter what you say it just wont do the book justice? When I originally decided to accept this review for Where the staircase ends I thought maybe this isn’t for me. The synopsis was rather short but it had a lot going on in it so I just figured why not. I finished the book and now I sit trying to form sentences that make some sense of how I am going to write this review for this book that had my emotions going all over the place.
The story is about Taylor, I felt sorry for her being picked on by her former BFF Sunny. Sunny is the most popular girl in school and just a few lies from her and your life is pretty much ruined. Taylor is heartbroken but she is angry with Sunny for what she did but just like that it’s all over, just when you think it can’t get any worse, tragedy. Taylor now finds herself staying at a stone staircase the reaches into the beyond with no end in sight. She can’t go back only forward to glimpse at her life from beginning to end. Alone and scared she climbs the stairs to find out about herself and the people she holds close.
It was intense with the most fantastic character build, emotions galore. You think you know her story but you don’t and when you start really getting into the build of her character you learn so much about who Taylor really is. Sunny I didn’t like but again her character builds and you think WOW really? Each character has some sort of growth, everyone that is in the book you get a look at them as a person and how each event affect them in different way but the POV is told by Taylor. I am not sure how to explain it without giving to much away, I honestly don’t want to give anything away, you need to experience this book from start to finish and feel the story as I did.
Stacy Stokes is an amazing story teller, the flow of the book, the pure emotion and the idea of the unknown is phenomenal. I couldn’t put this book done, I don’t even know if this expresses how I felt about this book…nothing I say can do what Stacy wrote justice. I can’t recommend this book enough and will be one I recommend often. I’ve never seen characters build or a story done like this. I am really looking forward to reading more by Stacy Stokes, awesome job! She even made me cry and I never cry. :)
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
Have you ever had an immediate hang over from a book? Like words escape you and you can’t even think about picking up another book even if you wanted or had too? Just writing the review makes you feel like no matter what you say it just wont do the book justice? When I originally decided to accept this review for Where the staircase ends I thought maybe this isn’t for me. The synopsis was rather short but it had a lot going on in it so I just figured why not. I finished the book and now I sit trying to form sentences that make some sense of how I am going to write this review for this book that had my emotions going all over the place.
The story is about Taylor, I felt sorry for her being picked on by her former BFF Sunny. Sunny is the most popular girl in school and just a few lies from her and your life is pretty much ruined. Taylor is heartbroken but she is angry with Sunny for what she did but just like that it’s all over, just when you think it can’t get any worse, tragedy. Taylor now finds herself staying at a stone staircase the reaches into the beyond with no end in sight. She can’t go back only forward to glimpse at her life from beginning to end. Alone and scared she climbs the stairs to find out about herself and the people she holds close.
It was intense with the most fantastic character build, emotions galore. You think you know her story but you don’t and when you start really getting into the build of her character you learn so much about who Taylor really is. Sunny I didn’t like but again her character builds and you think WOW really? Each character has some sort of growth, everyone that is in the book you get a look at them as a person and how each event affect them in different way but the POV is told by Taylor. I am not sure how to explain it without giving to much away, I honestly don’t want to give anything away, you need to experience this book from start to finish and feel the story as I did.
Stacy Stokes is an amazing story teller, the flow of the book, the pure emotion and the idea of the unknown is phenomenal. I couldn’t put this book done, I don’t even know if this expresses how I felt about this book…nothing I say can do what Stacy wrote justice. I can’t recommend this book enough and will be one I recommend often. I’ve never seen characters build or a story done like this. I am really looking forward to reading more by Stacy Stokes, awesome job! She even made me cry and I never cry. :)
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Thank you so much for stopping by to check out my review
Hope you have a great day and Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
April 30, 2015
You can find this review along with many others on my blog Seamless Reader!
I'm glad I got the opportunity to read and review this book. It was a completely unique and refreshing read. And although at first I didn't think I was going to enjoy it all that much, I became undeniably hooked.
The author made a fantastic job at depicting the twisted little world that is high-school and the minds of teenagers and the damage they can cause. Taylor, our main character gets in an accident after wishing to disappear. Her attitude totally plummeted due to the wrong-doings of her best friend. After her accident she wakes up and finds herself in a vast space surrounded by nothing but sky and before her a massive endless staircase.
She starts to call out for someone but is only answered by the lonely echo of her own voice. She begins her journey and climbs up the endless stairs. Along the way she encounters what appear to be ghost-like figures of the people she knows and they each bring a different memory. Each one bringing back moments and memories about how the whole dilemma with her best friend started.
I truly loved how fast paced this book was. It begins to pull you in instantly. And I'm sure most of that engrossment was not only because of the story, but because of the authors writing. It was absolutely amazing! It made the story flow perfectly and uniquely. The majority of this book is composed of flashbacks and I find that for me that tends to be a problem because it can sometimes get confusing, but not in this book. It was very well-written.
Also, the characters in this book were very well written and articulated. Each one's voice was distinct and easy to tell apart. They all had different traits that made them equally interesting. The only thing I wish would be different is the backstory on the characters. I felt like I wanted to know more about them and to have just a little bit more to hang on to, but other than that this was a very great book with a really lovely and valuable message. I think that not many books succeed at giving out accurate representations about high-school, but this one definitely did. It also emphasizes the importance of forgiving those around us and ourselves.
I really hope more people hear and find out about this book and ultimately end up reading it because it really does deserve the attention.
I'm glad I got the opportunity to read and review this book. It was a completely unique and refreshing read. And although at first I didn't think I was going to enjoy it all that much, I became undeniably hooked.
The author made a fantastic job at depicting the twisted little world that is high-school and the minds of teenagers and the damage they can cause. Taylor, our main character gets in an accident after wishing to disappear. Her attitude totally plummeted due to the wrong-doings of her best friend. After her accident she wakes up and finds herself in a vast space surrounded by nothing but sky and before her a massive endless staircase.
She starts to call out for someone but is only answered by the lonely echo of her own voice. She begins her journey and climbs up the endless stairs. Along the way she encounters what appear to be ghost-like figures of the people she knows and they each bring a different memory. Each one bringing back moments and memories about how the whole dilemma with her best friend started.
I truly loved how fast paced this book was. It begins to pull you in instantly. And I'm sure most of that engrossment was not only because of the story, but because of the authors writing. It was absolutely amazing! It made the story flow perfectly and uniquely. The majority of this book is composed of flashbacks and I find that for me that tends to be a problem because it can sometimes get confusing, but not in this book. It was very well-written.
Also, the characters in this book were very well written and articulated. Each one's voice was distinct and easy to tell apart. They all had different traits that made them equally interesting. The only thing I wish would be different is the backstory on the characters. I felt like I wanted to know more about them and to have just a little bit more to hang on to, but other than that this was a very great book with a really lovely and valuable message. I think that not many books succeed at giving out accurate representations about high-school, but this one definitely did. It also emphasizes the importance of forgiving those around us and ourselves.
I really hope more people hear and find out about this book and ultimately end up reading it because it really does deserve the attention.
April 6, 2015
How do I even begin to convey the awesomeness of this book? It had everything: friendship, love, heartbreak, and deeply layered characters that grab you from page one and won't let go.
With every character you meet you'll feel like you've known them your whole life, and you'll grow to love and care about them just as much as you care about your best friend. Especially Taylor, who made me want to wave a magic wand so I could bring her back to life. I absolutely couldn't let her go.
The whole book had me mesmerized from the beginning, forcing me to feverishly turn the pages and unravel the mystery--which when revealed, completely blew me away.
Written with the same poignancy and brilliance as Gayle Forman's If I Stay and Amy Huntley's The Everafter, WHERE THE STAIRCASE ENDS is a story that stays with you long after you finish turning the last page.
With every character you meet you'll feel like you've known them your whole life, and you'll grow to love and care about them just as much as you care about your best friend. Especially Taylor, who made me want to wave a magic wand so I could bring her back to life. I absolutely couldn't let her go.
The whole book had me mesmerized from the beginning, forcing me to feverishly turn the pages and unravel the mystery--which when revealed, completely blew me away.
Written with the same poignancy and brilliance as Gayle Forman's If I Stay and Amy Huntley's The Everafter, WHERE THE STAIRCASE ENDS is a story that stays with you long after you finish turning the last page.
April 22, 2015
So, I am thinking that maybe this is one of those cases where I may be too old, or too much of a goody-goody, or something because I simply could not connect to these characters. At first, I did feel for Taylor, not just because she was hit by a car, but because she was being ostracized by the entire school and all her friends. And then, you know, is hit by a car, and is stuck on these stairs, presumably that will lead her to an afterlife? So yeah, it started off pretty good, I was interested!
But then…. Taylor. She just stopped being someone I could care about, and started to be someone I wanted to smack and tell to get ahold of themselves. Yes, her “friends”, especially her best friend Sunny, were being awful, but so was she. Yet she kind of refused to acknowledge that side. On the stairs, she encounters a series of flashbacks that basically take her through different defining moments in her and Sunny’s friendship, and it kind of makes more sense as to why Sunny is so awful at times. There are boys involved in this feud of course. One was decent, and the other was pretty awful, and it didn’t make a ton of sense to me, except I guess that Taylor has some self-esteem issues, which also makes some sense because her mom was a real piece of work too.
Taylor did exhibit some character growth during the story, but it really did not have the impact I was hoping for. And when things were unraveled, and the “scandal” was revealed, I was very underwhelmed. I still don’t really understand what happened in the end, either, so if you have read it… let me know what you think! I asked someone who read it, and I thought something different than they did, so… let me know.
The bottom line is, it is a very character driven book and I did not like the characters. They were simply too harsh and immature for my tastes, and the reveals just weren’t enough to keep me excited about it.
But then…. Taylor. She just stopped being someone I could care about, and started to be someone I wanted to smack and tell to get ahold of themselves. Yes, her “friends”, especially her best friend Sunny, were being awful, but so was she. Yet she kind of refused to acknowledge that side. On the stairs, she encounters a series of flashbacks that basically take her through different defining moments in her and Sunny’s friendship, and it kind of makes more sense as to why Sunny is so awful at times. There are boys involved in this feud of course. One was decent, and the other was pretty awful, and it didn’t make a ton of sense to me, except I guess that Taylor has some self-esteem issues, which also makes some sense because her mom was a real piece of work too.
Taylor did exhibit some character growth during the story, but it really did not have the impact I was hoping for. And when things were unraveled, and the “scandal” was revealed, I was very underwhelmed. I still don’t really understand what happened in the end, either, so if you have read it… let me know what you think! I asked someone who read it, and I thought something different than they did, so… let me know.
The bottom line is, it is a very character driven book and I did not like the characters. They were simply too harsh and immature for my tastes, and the reveals just weren’t enough to keep me excited about it.
March 21, 2015
So proud of you Stacy! It was a fast and entertaining read! When are releasing your next book? : )
May 8, 2015
1.5 stars
I'm not sure how to rate this. I just know that it only gets another star because of the plot twist at the end.
I have a lot of issues with this book, and I'm not even sure where to begin, but I'll try.
This book reminded me a lot of Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver. Both main characters are mean girls, whose meanness is overshadowed by their even bitchier friends. But I actually liked the latter because we got to see the main character grow in the midst of the situation she was placed in. In Where the Staircase Ends, protagonist Taylor didn't really grow, in my opinion. She was a mean girl who was only mean when she was around her friend, Sunny. But the other minor characters agree that when she is not around Sunny, she is smart and intelligent and kind and blah blah blah. So what does Taylor ultimately discover about herself? That is the question.
And there is no answer.
Another thing I really have an issue with is the fact that the staircase serves as the main (and clearly, the most obvious) plot device, but I felt it was pointless. The idea of a seemingly neverending staircase was original and attention-grabbing at worst, but ultimately useless. Nothing about the book would have changed if the staircase had been replaced with another object, because this book was not character driven. Taylor is the same Taylor we see at the beginning. I think antagonist Sunny had more of a change than the main character, and I definitely didn't like that.
Eveything just happened too quickly, leaving me empty and wanting more depth to everything. For the most part, the staircase didn't tell Taylor something she didn't already know, and that's the worst part. Was the ultimate goal or the author's intention?
I know I had more to say, but I can't think of it right now. All I know for sure is that I'm super disappointed, because this sounded SOOOOO promising, and it just didn't deliver. Not to mention that the grammatical errors throughout REALLY annoyed the crap out of me.
Le sigh.
I'm not sure how to rate this. I just know that it only gets another star because of the plot twist at the end.
I have a lot of issues with this book, and I'm not even sure where to begin, but I'll try.
This book reminded me a lot of Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver. Both main characters are mean girls, whose meanness is overshadowed by their even bitchier friends. But I actually liked the latter because we got to see the main character grow in the midst of the situation she was placed in. In Where the Staircase Ends, protagonist Taylor didn't really grow, in my opinion. She was a mean girl who was only mean when she was around her friend, Sunny. But the other minor characters agree that when she is not around Sunny, she is smart and intelligent and kind and blah blah blah. So what does Taylor ultimately discover about herself? That is the question.
And there is no answer.
Another thing I really have an issue with is the fact that the staircase serves as the main (and clearly, the most obvious) plot device, but I felt it was pointless. The idea of a seemingly neverending staircase was original and attention-grabbing at worst, but ultimately useless. Nothing about the book would have changed if the staircase had been replaced with another object, because this book was not character driven. Taylor is the same Taylor we see at the beginning. I think antagonist Sunny had more of a change than the main character, and I definitely didn't like that.
Eveything just happened too quickly, leaving me empty and wanting more depth to everything. For the most part, the staircase didn't tell Taylor something she didn't already know, and that's the worst part. Was the ultimate goal or the author's intention?
I know I had more to say, but I can't think of it right now. All I know for sure is that I'm super disappointed, because this sounded SOOOOO promising, and it just didn't deliver. Not to mention that the grammatical errors throughout REALLY annoyed the crap out of me.
Le sigh.
April 15, 2015
See this review and more on my blog, Lilybloombooks
To be completely honest - when I first stumbled upon Where the Staircase Ends, I had a few hesitations on whether or not this was something that I would love. I sat on it for a few days and something about just kept gnawing at me - so I took the dive and asked to join the tour.
And I am so happy I did.
This turned out to be one of those books where I wish I could just say, "I LOVED IT, NOW GO READ IT, MM'KAY?"
I was completely, 100% engrossed in Taylor's journey and drowning in so many emotions. I was angry, hurt, happy, sad and best of all, full of hope. I was touched by every.single.word. It's funny, because I thought for the longest time that I had everything figured out. But with each chapter, a small layer is peeled away to reveal just how much I was kidding myself.
Each and everyone one of these characters are written so well, so honestly, I couldn't help but love them all. Even the times when I was cussing them out in my head. They are flawed; some in obvious ways and others? Not so obvious. There is tremendous growth, from (almost) everyone involved, and it was so hard sometimes to read yet beautiful at the same time.
I love books that make you reflect on your own actions, and force you to think about what you've done in your life. I closed the book thinking about how my own journey would play out - who would show up on MY staircase? It's a hard thing to think about. But something I think each and every one of us should do.
Overall - I loved this Where the Staircase Ends. Taylor's journey is beautiful, heart warming and one that will stick with readers (especially ME) for a long time. I highly recommend.
*I received a copy of this book from The Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
To be completely honest - when I first stumbled upon Where the Staircase Ends, I had a few hesitations on whether or not this was something that I would love. I sat on it for a few days and something about just kept gnawing at me - so I took the dive and asked to join the tour.
And I am so happy I did.
This turned out to be one of those books where I wish I could just say, "I LOVED IT, NOW GO READ IT, MM'KAY?"
I was completely, 100% engrossed in Taylor's journey and drowning in so many emotions. I was angry, hurt, happy, sad and best of all, full of hope. I was touched by every.single.word. It's funny, because I thought for the longest time that I had everything figured out. But with each chapter, a small layer is peeled away to reveal just how much I was kidding myself.
Each and everyone one of these characters are written so well, so honestly, I couldn't help but love them all. Even the times when I was cussing them out in my head. They are flawed; some in obvious ways and others? Not so obvious. There is tremendous growth, from (almost) everyone involved, and it was so hard sometimes to read yet beautiful at the same time.
I love books that make you reflect on your own actions, and force you to think about what you've done in your life. I closed the book thinking about how my own journey would play out - who would show up on MY staircase? It's a hard thing to think about. But something I think each and every one of us should do.
Overall - I loved this Where the Staircase Ends. Taylor's journey is beautiful, heart warming and one that will stick with readers (especially ME) for a long time. I highly recommend.
*I received a copy of this book from The Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
December 1, 2015
Stacy completely captures that insulated society that is high school. The emotional highs and lows where everyone wants to belong and be accepted and where your friends have more power than your parents or the law of the land.
As you come to know Taylor and Sunny, Justin and Logan, Tracey and Brandon, and the others, you realize they were part of your own life in high school. Popular, jock, loser - they were all present, along with the little details and background relationships of home and classes and side story gossip and fun and tears.
Staircase is intriguing and unique, with unexpected twists and turns that you don't anticipate and you are drawn into the story right from the start. You have to know what happens next on this unusual journey.
I completely enjoyed this book. It is both believable and a satisfying story on so many levels.
I highly recommend Where the Staircase Ends - Stacy is a talented writer and I look forward to reading her next unusual story.
As you come to know Taylor and Sunny, Justin and Logan, Tracey and Brandon, and the others, you realize they were part of your own life in high school. Popular, jock, loser - they were all present, along with the little details and background relationships of home and classes and side story gossip and fun and tears.
Staircase is intriguing and unique, with unexpected twists and turns that you don't anticipate and you are drawn into the story right from the start. You have to know what happens next on this unusual journey.
I completely enjoyed this book. It is both believable and a satisfying story on so many levels.
I highly recommend Where the Staircase Ends - Stacy is a talented writer and I look forward to reading her next unusual story.
April 8, 2015
As a megafan of the Young Adult fiction, it's hard to believe this is Stokes's debut novel. She brings a freshness and authenticity to the genre that stands out amongst the derivative works of vampire romances and dystopic, post-apocalyptic metaphors for adolescence. Taylor's voice comes out so clearly that I'm surprised Stokes isn't a high schooler sharing her diary.
Stokes writes with a such a balance of pressing intrigue and natural fluidity that I often found myself pushing forward at 3am even though I had made unkept promises to stop reading since 10pm.
It was well worth taking the trip to find where the staircase ends. It's a reminder that our lives are not permanent and that the internal journey is often the most adventurous and rewarding one in our lives.
Stokes writes with a such a balance of pressing intrigue and natural fluidity that I often found myself pushing forward at 3am even though I had made unkept promises to stop reading since 10pm.
It was well worth taking the trip to find where the staircase ends. It's a reminder that our lives are not permanent and that the internal journey is often the most adventurous and rewarding one in our lives.
April 1, 2015
I read this book a long time ago (beta read) and never forgot it. The characters are richly drawn, the situations are realistic and thought-provoking. I was emotionally invested throughout the story and envious of Stacy's ability to effortlessly capture the ups and downs of high-school life and adolescence. Where the Staircase Ends touches on timeless themes in a fresh and intriguing way that will keep readers captivated throughout.
Congrats to Stacy on an amazing debut. This is one book I'll definitely be re-reading!
Congrats to Stacy on an amazing debut. This is one book I'll definitely be re-reading!
April 12, 2015
I absolutely loved this book. After just a few chapters, I was hooked and could not wait to find out what happened. It's also so cleverly written - going back and forth between scenes and bringing up all of the feelings you've had for the important people in your life - your first love, your parents, your best friend. I really hope there is a sequel. Must read!
April 23, 2015
The cover of Where the Staircase Ends is absolutely what drew me to the book in the beginning, then I read the synopsis and there was no going back. I just knew that I had to read this one. In the end, while there were some missing steps, I am happy I did!
The story begins with Taylor walking into school, and everyone staring and turning around and whispering with each other, some not meeting her eyes and others glaring. She discovers what the rumor is, and it is horrible, but what makes it so much worse is that it was her best friend, Sunny, who started it. She is angry, and when she sees Sunny in the hall surrounded by their friends, she thinks about hitting her. But when Sunny comes over to her, with her eyes shining, she thinks she might get an apology, Instead, she gets her heart broken. All Taylor wants at that point is to not exist. A few days later, she gets her wish.
Taylor ends up standing in front of a staircase that reaches into the sky, seemingly never-ending. She cannot turn back, not even her head, so she has no choice but to climb. As she climbs, higher and higher, she encounters "ghosts" from her life. Some of them, she wants to see, to hold on to. But others, she wishes would just go away and leave her alone for good. But on the staircase, what she wants only matters a little bit. So she starts a journey, through memories the ghosts bring, of the events leading up to Sunny's betrayal. What revelations will Taylor have, what secrets might she see? Will she realize her own part in what happened in her life, or will she close her heart to it, and to forgiveness? This is Taylor's journey.
I really enjoyed the story, but there was a while there at the beginning that I struggled to relate to Taylor. One of the biggest issues for me was the feeling that the book was written for a younger YA crowd. The characters seemed very young, even though they were 16 or so years old. Being in my 30's, I struggled relating to any of them. The pacing was also a little slow. However, as the book progressed, I found myself getting more involved in the story, and the memories Taylor relived. The book took on a more serious tone, and picked up steam, and Taylor struggles became something I could relate to. By the middle, it had hit its stride and from then on it was smooth sailing.
Taylor was a good character, and by the end I really cared about her. She was broken, and confused, and I completely understood.The journey that she made was not an easy one, and it was handled well. It was believable, her reactions. Sunny was a humdinger, though. Wow, she was not the best BFF. But the staircase showed things that made me understand Sunny more, and she redeemed herself in my eyes. The love interests in the story were both very different. One definitely out did the other, and I like the result of the triangle, of sorts.
Where the Staircase Ends is a thought-provoking, often heart-breaking, joyful and emotional roller coaster of a book. Despite the issues that I had, by the time I finished the last page, there were tears in my eyes and a smile on my face. I would absolutely recommend it to the younger YA crowd. To the older YA crowd, and the not even close to YA crowd like me, I would say to give it a chance. It might not seem like it is your kind of story in the beginning, but if you keep going with it, the payoff is definitely rewarding!
The story begins with Taylor walking into school, and everyone staring and turning around and whispering with each other, some not meeting her eyes and others glaring. She discovers what the rumor is, and it is horrible, but what makes it so much worse is that it was her best friend, Sunny, who started it. She is angry, and when she sees Sunny in the hall surrounded by their friends, she thinks about hitting her. But when Sunny comes over to her, with her eyes shining, she thinks she might get an apology, Instead, she gets her heart broken. All Taylor wants at that point is to not exist. A few days later, she gets her wish.
Taylor ends up standing in front of a staircase that reaches into the sky, seemingly never-ending. She cannot turn back, not even her head, so she has no choice but to climb. As she climbs, higher and higher, she encounters "ghosts" from her life. Some of them, she wants to see, to hold on to. But others, she wishes would just go away and leave her alone for good. But on the staircase, what she wants only matters a little bit. So she starts a journey, through memories the ghosts bring, of the events leading up to Sunny's betrayal. What revelations will Taylor have, what secrets might she see? Will she realize her own part in what happened in her life, or will she close her heart to it, and to forgiveness? This is Taylor's journey.
I really enjoyed the story, but there was a while there at the beginning that I struggled to relate to Taylor. One of the biggest issues for me was the feeling that the book was written for a younger YA crowd. The characters seemed very young, even though they were 16 or so years old. Being in my 30's, I struggled relating to any of them. The pacing was also a little slow. However, as the book progressed, I found myself getting more involved in the story, and the memories Taylor relived. The book took on a more serious tone, and picked up steam, and Taylor struggles became something I could relate to. By the middle, it had hit its stride and from then on it was smooth sailing.
Taylor was a good character, and by the end I really cared about her. She was broken, and confused, and I completely understood.The journey that she made was not an easy one, and it was handled well. It was believable, her reactions. Sunny was a humdinger, though. Wow, she was not the best BFF. But the staircase showed things that made me understand Sunny more, and she redeemed herself in my eyes. The love interests in the story were both very different. One definitely out did the other, and I like the result of the triangle, of sorts.
Where the Staircase Ends is a thought-provoking, often heart-breaking, joyful and emotional roller coaster of a book. Despite the issues that I had, by the time I finished the last page, there were tears in my eyes and a smile on my face. I would absolutely recommend it to the younger YA crowd. To the older YA crowd, and the not even close to YA crowd like me, I would say to give it a chance. It might not seem like it is your kind of story in the beginning, but if you keep going with it, the payoff is definitely rewarding!
April 22, 2015
Beautiful written and richly compelling, Where the Staircase Ends, is a wonderfully thought provoking and eye opening read. Stacy Stokes has penned a gorgeous novel, set against a backdrop of heartache, betrayal, and learning to forgive. I truly loved every moment of this book, it was just breath taking and inspired. The author, really has a way with world building, telling a story that will move you to tears, and inspire to much hope inside of you. This awe-inspiring, captivating novel, definitely put drug my feelings through the gamut and didn't disappoint in any way. If, as a reader, you are looking for a little bit of everything in a book that will leave you reeling with emotions then this is the book for you.
Where the Staircase Ends is a story about the art of love, family, the tragedy of a friendship lost, the harsh realities of a lie, and the act of forgiveness even when you aren't truly ready to offer forgiveness. Wonderfully character driven and full of so much depth in the variety of characters, Stacy Stokes manages to touch on things in the truest sense of feeling. Taylor, is desperately hurting in such a way that it's bone deep, and it makes her just want to disappear as if she never was here. I found myself able to connect with her in such an intense emotional way that I wanted to reach out and hug her and then tell her that it would be alright in the end, just have a little hope. Her method of disappearing and getting what she wants, comes to her in the form of a huge almost never-ending staircase that winds so far up that she can't even see past it and she has no choice but to climb to the top of it, the only thing hitch is that she can't look back and she can only move forward at this point.
The idea behind the concept of this novel is so beautifully brilliant, that it left me stunned and almost speechless. As you follow along with Taylor on her journey up the staircase towards opening herself up for forgiveness to be given, it's not an easy road to take as a reader. There are things about her that will grate on your nerves, just as they did mine when it comes to her character and how she presents herself. However, as you begin to uncover parts of her that make her who she is, you'll begin to understand Taylor a little bit better and will be able to connect with her. This stunningly heartbreaking story of love, hope, and the renewal of understanding, will definitely resonate with you on a deeper level. It's such a wonderful impressive story, told through the eyes of a character so broken that she's doing everything she can to make it better.
Taylor and Sunny's relationship as best friends, was the most compelling part of this amazing novel for me. It was an eye opener of why things happen and the reason behind them. The flashbacks of how they became best friends and how they drifted apart beyond that was wonderfully fleshed out and it brought so many feelings to the surface. Sometimes things happen the way they do for a reason and that's what I think Stacy Stokes did such a fantastic of illustrating in her own poignant way through the story she started weaving from the beginning. I really enjoyed how the love story didn't necessarily evolve into a love triangle, but that even though there were two guys and it was clear from the beginning who readers were supposed to want Taylor to be with, you can't help but feel something for the other guy to and wonder what if? They were both incredibly likable and they both would have brought some pretty amazing things to Taylor's life, if given the chance. It's rare to find a story like this one being told, without there always being the presence of a love triangle and I definitely applaud Stacy Stokes for leaving that out of this one.
Where the Staircase Ends is a truly unforgettable read, that will leave you experiencing all the feels. After reading this beautiful novel, I couldn't stop thinking about it and wonder what it would be like if I was presented with my own staircase. One of the most gorgeous and poignant novels that I've read in quite a while, I would definitely recommend this to anyone that I know or family members I thought might like this.
Where the Staircase Ends is a story about the art of love, family, the tragedy of a friendship lost, the harsh realities of a lie, and the act of forgiveness even when you aren't truly ready to offer forgiveness. Wonderfully character driven and full of so much depth in the variety of characters, Stacy Stokes manages to touch on things in the truest sense of feeling. Taylor, is desperately hurting in such a way that it's bone deep, and it makes her just want to disappear as if she never was here. I found myself able to connect with her in such an intense emotional way that I wanted to reach out and hug her and then tell her that it would be alright in the end, just have a little hope. Her method of disappearing and getting what she wants, comes to her in the form of a huge almost never-ending staircase that winds so far up that she can't even see past it and she has no choice but to climb to the top of it, the only thing hitch is that she can't look back and she can only move forward at this point.
The idea behind the concept of this novel is so beautifully brilliant, that it left me stunned and almost speechless. As you follow along with Taylor on her journey up the staircase towards opening herself up for forgiveness to be given, it's not an easy road to take as a reader. There are things about her that will grate on your nerves, just as they did mine when it comes to her character and how she presents herself. However, as you begin to uncover parts of her that make her who she is, you'll begin to understand Taylor a little bit better and will be able to connect with her. This stunningly heartbreaking story of love, hope, and the renewal of understanding, will definitely resonate with you on a deeper level. It's such a wonderful impressive story, told through the eyes of a character so broken that she's doing everything she can to make it better.
Taylor and Sunny's relationship as best friends, was the most compelling part of this amazing novel for me. It was an eye opener of why things happen and the reason behind them. The flashbacks of how they became best friends and how they drifted apart beyond that was wonderfully fleshed out and it brought so many feelings to the surface. Sometimes things happen the way they do for a reason and that's what I think Stacy Stokes did such a fantastic of illustrating in her own poignant way through the story she started weaving from the beginning. I really enjoyed how the love story didn't necessarily evolve into a love triangle, but that even though there were two guys and it was clear from the beginning who readers were supposed to want Taylor to be with, you can't help but feel something for the other guy to and wonder what if? They were both incredibly likable and they both would have brought some pretty amazing things to Taylor's life, if given the chance. It's rare to find a story like this one being told, without there always being the presence of a love triangle and I definitely applaud Stacy Stokes for leaving that out of this one.
Where the Staircase Ends is a truly unforgettable read, that will leave you experiencing all the feels. After reading this beautiful novel, I couldn't stop thinking about it and wonder what it would be like if I was presented with my own staircase. One of the most gorgeous and poignant novels that I've read in quite a while, I would definitely recommend this to anyone that I know or family members I thought might like this.
September 6, 2015
I found myself disappointed with this book. The concept was a really interesting one, the idea of the staircase and the girl going through memories of her life was what drew me in. However, I found myself pretty much hating the characters.
The plot started out fairly interesting, The main character, Taylor, arrives at school to find everyone talking about her, and her best friend, Sunny disses her in front of everyone. She's freaked enough to call her mom to come and get her. Right off the bat I did not like Sunny. Sunny is supposed to be this rich beautiful girl everyone admires, but frankly, she was a horrible person. A complete bitch. Almost right off the bat she coins the phrase "douche-fag" to describe one of the geeky smart boys she doesn't like and it becomes like her signature insult. i pretty much checked out at that point. I hated Sunny. She's rude to her friends, she randomly picks on people she decides she doesn't like and tries to make it seem funny when she passes rude notes bullying the overweight girl in one of her classes. She even went after the boy she knew Taylor liked and made it seem like it was no big deal and acted all hurt when Taylor got pissy with her. I did not get why this girl is so popular.
Though to be fair, the tone of voice is fairly realistic for high school mean girls who drink and party. Taylor herself didn't impress me much as a main character for the most part. She likes one guy, Justin, but since he doesn't seem to be interested she starts dating another boy, Logan, who is interested. Taylor though, doesn't seem to get it when Logan gets annoyed at her for hanging around Justin a lot.
Taylor gets hit by a car and finds herself stranded somewhere where there is a massive staircase seeming to lead to nowhere. Heaven? Hell? God? It's impossible to tell. it does raise some fairly interesting philosophical questions as Taylor stars climbing the stairs and is confronted with past memories. And we learn more about her life and her friendship with Sunny. Taylor and Sunny have been friends since second grade and Sunny has a pretty rotten home life. Her mother left when she was young and her dad has never handled it well and is pretty much away on business all the time. In Taylor's flashback memories there are glimpses into the past and all the times Sunny has been a good friend and Taylor is pretty much all she had. Sunny wasn't always such a horrible person and she's had some shit to deal with, but she was still vile as a best friend in later life. I have absolutely no sympathy for her as reader.
Taylor reviews some of the evens in her life, she's at least smart enough to be sorry for the pranks and bullying she took part in when Sunny picked on the overweight girl, but its like too little too late. There were a few times when the boy Taylor really liked, Justin, was pretty much the smartest character in the book. He's not impressed with Sunny, for one thing. (Yay for him, listen to him Taylor!) He's a very honest person and tries to help Taylor see things as they really are.
Sunny turns on Taylor and the nasty rumours start flying about her. Taylor is devastated. she's forced to confront some painful memories and has to figure out how to deal with them. She has plenty of issues with her parents, mom in particular for what she thinks is being too strict and setting too many boundaries. But where this is concerned she did show some remarkable character growth.
Though by the end I still wanted to throttle Taylor.
The concept was a pretty good one, and the writing itself was fairly compelling. Some really good scenes with Taylor and the staircases and the things she's forced to deal with. The characters with one or two exceptions, were pretty much appalling people.
While this book wasn't to my taste in the end, I would certainly like to read something else by this author.
The plot started out fairly interesting, The main character, Taylor, arrives at school to find everyone talking about her, and her best friend, Sunny disses her in front of everyone. She's freaked enough to call her mom to come and get her. Right off the bat I did not like Sunny. Sunny is supposed to be this rich beautiful girl everyone admires, but frankly, she was a horrible person. A complete bitch. Almost right off the bat she coins the phrase "douche-fag" to describe one of the geeky smart boys she doesn't like and it becomes like her signature insult. i pretty much checked out at that point. I hated Sunny. She's rude to her friends, she randomly picks on people she decides she doesn't like and tries to make it seem funny when she passes rude notes bullying the overweight girl in one of her classes. She even went after the boy she knew Taylor liked and made it seem like it was no big deal and acted all hurt when Taylor got pissy with her. I did not get why this girl is so popular.
Though to be fair, the tone of voice is fairly realistic for high school mean girls who drink and party. Taylor herself didn't impress me much as a main character for the most part. She likes one guy, Justin, but since he doesn't seem to be interested she starts dating another boy, Logan, who is interested. Taylor though, doesn't seem to get it when Logan gets annoyed at her for hanging around Justin a lot.
Taylor gets hit by a car and finds herself stranded somewhere where there is a massive staircase seeming to lead to nowhere. Heaven? Hell? God? It's impossible to tell. it does raise some fairly interesting philosophical questions as Taylor stars climbing the stairs and is confronted with past memories. And we learn more about her life and her friendship with Sunny. Taylor and Sunny have been friends since second grade and Sunny has a pretty rotten home life. Her mother left when she was young and her dad has never handled it well and is pretty much away on business all the time. In Taylor's flashback memories there are glimpses into the past and all the times Sunny has been a good friend and Taylor is pretty much all she had. Sunny wasn't always such a horrible person and she's had some shit to deal with, but she was still vile as a best friend in later life. I have absolutely no sympathy for her as reader.
Taylor reviews some of the evens in her life, she's at least smart enough to be sorry for the pranks and bullying she took part in when Sunny picked on the overweight girl, but its like too little too late. There were a few times when the boy Taylor really liked, Justin, was pretty much the smartest character in the book. He's not impressed with Sunny, for one thing. (Yay for him, listen to him Taylor!) He's a very honest person and tries to help Taylor see things as they really are.
Sunny turns on Taylor and the nasty rumours start flying about her. Taylor is devastated. she's forced to confront some painful memories and has to figure out how to deal with them. She has plenty of issues with her parents, mom in particular for what she thinks is being too strict and setting too many boundaries. But where this is concerned she did show some remarkable character growth.
Though by the end I still wanted to throttle Taylor.
The concept was a pretty good one, and the writing itself was fairly compelling. Some really good scenes with Taylor and the staircases and the things she's forced to deal with. The characters with one or two exceptions, were pretty much appalling people.
While this book wasn't to my taste in the end, I would certainly like to read something else by this author.
May 5, 2017
Rated 2.5 really (it was originally a 3, but...read the story in my review).
Excerpt from my review - originally published at Offbeat YA.
Pros: Staircase, while serving as a tool for revisiting real life episodes, is full of surprises of its own. Story provides a life lesson.
Cons: Characters are pretty flawed - lead included. Also, all the fuss about Taylor's supposed shameful secret sounds a bit over the top to me.
WARNING! Casual (and unprotected) sex is mentioned; underage drinking and smoking are featured.
Will appeal to: Those who love character-driven stories (even if such characters are damaged). Those who like high-school drama. Those who are intrigued by a mystery setting.
First off...DISCLAIMER: as the banner above states, I'm taking part in this novel's blog tour. You know how picky I am - I signed up just because WTSE appealed to me. Also, I've talked to the author more than once (we are mutual followers via GFC and Twitter, too...not to mention we're both Christopher Pike fans!). Regardless, what you're about to read is my honest take on this book.
Being the afterlife and mystery buff that I am, I couldn't pass the chance of reading a book whose blurb promised an eerie staircase climbing into the skies and a supposedly dead character revisiting her own past. It turned out that this book wasn't all that I had anticipated (and I don't mean it in a bad way), but elaborating further would amount to a giant spoiler. Also, the ending may lead to different interpretations, though we're probably supposed to take it at face value. Sorry to be vague, but you know my policy...NO SPOILER :). Suffice to say, regardless of how you choose to read the ending, at the core of the book lies the path (or the staircase) that leads our main character there...
In an interview, the author stated that the idea for WTSE came to her in a dream. And what happens on the staircase has, indeed, a dreamlike quality, though it retains aspects of the harsh reality. Is it the afterlife? is it the fabrication of a dying mind? or is it a dream itself? Whatever it is, it's intriguing. While Taylor climbs the apparently infinite flight of steps, with no choice but to go and look ahead, the mysterious staircase and its all too vivid visions merge with scenes from her past, that not only serve the purpose of telling her story, but also force her to come to terms with her own faults. Besides, it's only near the end that we're revealed a vital piece of the puzzle - though it doesn't change what happens on the actual staircase and the reason behind it. [...]
Whole review here.
Excerpt from my review - originally published at Offbeat YA.
Pros: Staircase, while serving as a tool for revisiting real life episodes, is full of surprises of its own. Story provides a life lesson.
Cons: Characters are pretty flawed - lead included. Also, all the fuss about Taylor's supposed shameful secret sounds a bit over the top to me.
WARNING! Casual (and unprotected) sex is mentioned; underage drinking and smoking are featured.
Will appeal to: Those who love character-driven stories (even if such characters are damaged). Those who like high-school drama. Those who are intrigued by a mystery setting.
First off...DISCLAIMER: as the banner above states, I'm taking part in this novel's blog tour. You know how picky I am - I signed up just because WTSE appealed to me. Also, I've talked to the author more than once (we are mutual followers via GFC and Twitter, too...not to mention we're both Christopher Pike fans!). Regardless, what you're about to read is my honest take on this book.
Being the afterlife and mystery buff that I am, I couldn't pass the chance of reading a book whose blurb promised an eerie staircase climbing into the skies and a supposedly dead character revisiting her own past. It turned out that this book wasn't all that I had anticipated (and I don't mean it in a bad way), but elaborating further would amount to a giant spoiler. Also, the ending may lead to different interpretations, though we're probably supposed to take it at face value. Sorry to be vague, but you know my policy...NO SPOILER :). Suffice to say, regardless of how you choose to read the ending, at the core of the book lies the path (or the staircase) that leads our main character there...
In an interview, the author stated that the idea for WTSE came to her in a dream. And what happens on the staircase has, indeed, a dreamlike quality, though it retains aspects of the harsh reality. Is it the afterlife? is it the fabrication of a dying mind? or is it a dream itself? Whatever it is, it's intriguing. While Taylor climbs the apparently infinite flight of steps, with no choice but to go and look ahead, the mysterious staircase and its all too vivid visions merge with scenes from her past, that not only serve the purpose of telling her story, but also force her to come to terms with her own faults. Besides, it's only near the end that we're revealed a vital piece of the puzzle - though it doesn't change what happens on the actual staircase and the reason behind it. [...]
Whole review here.
June 3, 2015
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April 29, 2015
What a beautifully written book! Stacy Stokes masterfully takes the reader from scene to scene, alternating between the heroine's staircase afterlife and her life just before she died. The conflict centers on Taylor's relationship with her best friend Sunny, and as Taylor climbs and climbs and climbs the staircase, she is confronted with memories of their strong, but often troubled, friendship.
There were times I didn't understand why Taylor would be friends with Sunny, but as the book went on and Taylor examined their relationship, I understood completely. The ending is touching and satisfying.
My favorite books have beautifully-written passages and imagery, and this book has plenty, especially in the staircase scenes. This is one of my favorite passages: "My heartbeat roared in my ears, churning and gurgling like the Mississippi River. The world swirled around in gray and white blurs, and I was stuck standing still in the center of the colorless whirlpool, trying not to get sucked in."
There were times I didn't understand why Taylor would be friends with Sunny, but as the book went on and Taylor examined their relationship, I understood completely. The ending is touching and satisfying.
My favorite books have beautifully-written passages and imagery, and this book has plenty, especially in the staircase scenes. This is one of my favorite passages: "My heartbeat roared in my ears, churning and gurgling like the Mississippi River. The world swirled around in gray and white blurs, and I was stuck standing still in the center of the colorless whirlpool, trying not to get sucked in."
April 22, 2015
This was an awesome book about friendship, betrayal, loss and ultimately finding yourself and letting go. Taylor starts climbing the stairs after she is involved in an accident and we are to believe they are the stairs to her final resting place. But with each step she takes we see a flashback from her former life - most of them involving her best friend Sunny who is both friend and foe for Taylor. Taylor expects the steps to lead somewhere, that there will be an ending - but what will she find at the end of the steps - or will there even BE an end? I really loved the way the author kept making the characters more complex with each story. I went from liking certain characters to disliking them and then some I liked again by the time it all unfolds. Highly recommend this book, it is definitely a page-turner and really makes you think about your own life and how you look at the world.
April 28, 2015
I really enjoyed this book--a quick read that kept me turning the page! It had a very smooth flow, which could've been tricky given the story wove past experiences into a celestial present. The detailed reflections of the main character transported me back to high school, the feelings of social pressure, drama and crushes that dominate your world at that moment but seem so trivial looking back. Will recommend to friends.
May 28, 2015
Sometimes, you're so happy you could die. Well, Taylor does... And embarks on a journey up a staircase to who-knows-where... on the way the reader learns her story, and why she was thinking she might be happy to die. This book kept me up all night reading! Stacy Stokes has written a beautiful book about the choices we make in life and the ways we fail to appreciate it.
September 20, 2015
I felt like this book was trying to force me to like the characters best friend again, but I didn't feel the connection. Still don't really like books that write text messages.
December 20, 2020
great book! I enjoyed Taylor's journey and read it in 2 days. Was surprised to see the twists and turns but was a great way to spend 2 afternoons! recommended! 4 1/2 *
back cover
After her best friend orchestrates the lie that destroys her reputation, Taylor wants more than anything to disappear from her life. But when an accident turns this unspoken wish into reality, instead of an angel-filled afterlife, Taylor must climb a seemingly endless staircase into the sky.
Instead of going up, the journey plunges her into the past. As she unravels the mystery behind her friend’s betrayal, she must face the truth about life and find the strength to forgive the unforgivable -- unless the staircase breaks her first.
back cover
After her best friend orchestrates the lie that destroys her reputation, Taylor wants more than anything to disappear from her life. But when an accident turns this unspoken wish into reality, instead of an angel-filled afterlife, Taylor must climb a seemingly endless staircase into the sky.
Instead of going up, the journey plunges her into the past. As she unravels the mystery behind her friend’s betrayal, she must face the truth about life and find the strength to forgive the unforgivable -- unless the staircase breaks her first.
May 17, 2015
*Contains a few spoilers*
3.5 stars!
And the reading slump arrives! I didn't particularly love-love this book, it was an okay book for me. Some confusion happens with the changing of events at times, but what made me decide to give a 3.5 instead of a 2 was all the morals she learned at the end of the book. I felt like the lessons that she learned really is a good reminder for anyone at anytime they have fights with someone they love or someone who you think doesn't love you. I found the morals told in the story very applicable to anyone whose experienced any of her insecurities and problems.
3.5 stars!
And the reading slump arrives! I didn't particularly love-love this book, it was an okay book for me. Some confusion happens with the changing of events at times, but what made me decide to give a 3.5 instead of a 2 was all the morals she learned at the end of the book. I felt like the lessons that she learned really is a good reminder for anyone at anytime they have fights with someone they love or someone who you think doesn't love you. I found the morals told in the story very applicable to anyone whose experienced any of her insecurities and problems.
March 10, 2016
(Giveaway winner) I really enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting and the story kept me hooked. I wasn't nervous about how it would end because, if it ended in the more unexpected way, at least it would have been different. But it was still satisfying. I guess the whole story and history was more important than just the basic ending.
July 18, 2015
This was an amazing story! There are so many life lessons to be learned here. You felt for Taylor throughout her while journey. I loved how the road to understanding was expressed through her eyes. I wish there was a little more to the ending though, I would have like to know where her new found understanding led her.
June 29, 2015
Great book! Young adult. Loved the way she presented difficult topics to young people without sounding overbearing. Very creative story!
July 27, 2015
I am so glad I read this book. Planning to write a review!
April 16, 2015
This one was just not for me at all. If you are interested in my full review it is on my blog at www.caughtupinbooks.wordpress.com
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