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Love Edy #2
Bittersweet
In the aftermath of one tragic and uncertain night, Edy and Hassan shut out the chaos with a kiss. But when Hassan's traditionalist mother sees that kiss … Well, a nightmare of a different sort begins. After all, he still has an arranged marriage on the horizon.
Love attacks the glue of their two bonded families; while the slow tug of success pulls Edy and Hassan in opposite directions. After denying their feelings for so long, they now have each other, but are forced to ask themselves if being together is worth it.
Love attacks the glue of their two bonded families; while the slow tug of success pulls Edy and Hassan in opposite directions. After denying their feelings for so long, they now have each other, but are forced to ask themselves if being together is worth it.
334 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2014
31 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Shewanda Pugh
9 books248 followersShewanda Pugh's a tomboy who's been writing romance since an inappropriate age. While she's been shortlisted for a few awards and snagged a bestsellers list or two, there's nothing she enjoys more than hearing from her readers.
In another life, she earned a BA from Alabama A&M University and an MA in Writing from Nova Southeastern University. Though a hardcore native of Boston, MA, she now lives in Miami, FL, where she sulks in the sunshine, guzzles coffee, and puzzles over her next novel.
In another life, she earned a BA from Alabama A&M University and an MA in Writing from Nova Southeastern University. Though a hardcore native of Boston, MA, she now lives in Miami, FL, where she sulks in the sunshine, guzzles coffee, and puzzles over her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 15, 2014
I read Shewanda Pugh’s LOVE, EDY for review in August of this year, a gift from the author for winning a contest on her Facebook page. Young adult romance is not on my short list of favorites but the book looked good so I read it. The pleasant surprise I felt at the time was mind boggling.
So needless to say, I jumped at the chance when offered an ARC copy of the sequel, BITTERSWEET.
The story picks up where LOVE, EDY left off, in the aftermath of a tragic attack. Both Hassan and Edy weather the resulting storm as they pursue their new relationship while hiding it from their parents. The results tear their families apart.
It’s an emotionally charged story in the highest sense about family, love and cultures that don’t just clash, they explode. The characters of Edy and Hassan are so well drawn that I felt as if I were placed in the story as an invisible observer watching the events play out as a movie. No mean fete to write and certainly difficult to pull off well, but Shewanda Pugh has done it.
Background characters are supporting and not overwhelming. The Dyson boys add much needed humor at the right times and Edy’s girlfriends paint a realistic picture of teenaged girls in 21st century America, both supporting and condemning Edy’s choices as only teenagers can do. While billed as a young adult novel, BITTERSWEET transcends the constraints of the young adult genre, able to be enjoyed and appreciated by all ages. We all have felt and lived the issues that Edy and Hassan live through.
The covers for both BITTERSWEET and LOVE, EDY are beautiful tributes to their exceptional stories but please note that BITTERSWEET is not a stand-alone novel. It picks up where LOVE, EDY leaves off. You should definitely read LOVE, EDY first if you haven’t already.
So needless to say, I jumped at the chance when offered an ARC copy of the sequel, BITTERSWEET.
The story picks up where LOVE, EDY left off, in the aftermath of a tragic attack. Both Hassan and Edy weather the resulting storm as they pursue their new relationship while hiding it from their parents. The results tear their families apart.
It’s an emotionally charged story in the highest sense about family, love and cultures that don’t just clash, they explode. The characters of Edy and Hassan are so well drawn that I felt as if I were placed in the story as an invisible observer watching the events play out as a movie. No mean fete to write and certainly difficult to pull off well, but Shewanda Pugh has done it.
Background characters are supporting and not overwhelming. The Dyson boys add much needed humor at the right times and Edy’s girlfriends paint a realistic picture of teenaged girls in 21st century America, both supporting and condemning Edy’s choices as only teenagers can do. While billed as a young adult novel, BITTERSWEET transcends the constraints of the young adult genre, able to be enjoyed and appreciated by all ages. We all have felt and lived the issues that Edy and Hassan live through.
The covers for both BITTERSWEET and LOVE, EDY are beautiful tributes to their exceptional stories but please note that BITTERSWEET is not a stand-alone novel. It picks up where LOVE, EDY leaves off. You should definitely read LOVE, EDY first if you haven’t already.
December 17, 2014
I'm so happy that Edy and Hassan have returned and the way this book ended hopefully another book is in the making. If not the author better get cracking. For the cons the beginning was a bit choppy, the flow was off I had to go back to reread some areas. The grammar needs work as well, nothing a decent editor can't fix.
For the pros loved how Edy's character grew wasn't sure if it was because she and Hassan took their relationship to the next level. She reminded me of a typical teenager in love. There were quite a few surprises that I didn't see coming so kudos on expanding the storyline. And new characters...loved the grandparents they cracked me up! Good job!
For the pros loved how Edy's character grew wasn't sure if it was because she and Hassan took their relationship to the next level. She reminded me of a typical teenager in love. There were quite a few surprises that I didn't see coming so kudos on expanding the storyline. And new characters...loved the grandparents they cracked me up! Good job!
September 17, 2015
I'm really into the whole romance genre, but didn't really think I would be interested in this book. After reading "Love Edy" I was instantly hooked. I like the development of the characters and the storyline was a bit unexpected for a modern day romance. My only regret, is choosing to read a series that wasn't yet complete. Come on, Shewanda let's get part 3 out there!
December 24, 2014
No, just no.
check out the bottom bit of my review of the first book, Love Edy to understand why.
check out the bottom bit of my review of the first book, Love Edy to understand why.
February 20, 2015
Better than first
I liked that Hassan had a voice in this book and I am looking forward to the next book. I can't wait to see what direction the story goes in with Wyatt and Malia. Can't wait for part 3 as long as Hassan and Edy stay together.
I liked that Hassan had a voice in this book and I am looking forward to the next book. I can't wait to see what direction the story goes in with Wyatt and Malia. Can't wait for part 3 as long as Hassan and Edy stay together.
December 10, 2014
More
I've enjoyed reading their story. I know there has to be more. Can't wait for the next chapter in their lives...
I've enjoyed reading their story. I know there has to be more. Can't wait for the next chapter in their lives...
August 24, 2017
Just as good.
This book was just as good as part 1. I loved the love that the two couple has for each other.
This book was just as good as part 1. I loved the love that the two couple has for each other.
June 27, 2020
Quick and entertaining.
December 20, 2017
2.50 stars. It is my opinion, that the 280 pages of Bittersweet was nothing more than a time jump. This could have been accomplished with an epilogue at the end of Love Edy and a prologue at the beginning of Wrecked. The first 15% of the book is Edy and Hassan being swished off to Kentucky to Edy's grandparents she did not know. Most of the book is filler: telling how Wyatt goes from rags to riches and how the protagonist go from freshmen to seniors. The meat of the book was told in about 3 chapters: Rebecca continues her senate run. The dads, Nathan and Ali, go to the Middle East to help with civil unrest. Rani tries to drive a wedge between Edy and Hassan first denying Edy into her home then feigning interest in Edy's dance ambitions and suggesting the Hassan and the others were indifferent to it. She lies to Wyatt telling him Edy is interested in him and finally she gets her friend to bring Mala, the girl Hassan is betrothed to marry, to come to town. Edy and Hassan tell both their family's of their romantic love and relationship and their intend to be together. Ali reveals that Hassan's betrothal was payment for a debt. I am glad I waited until Wrecked was released before reading this book.
February 14, 2017
I enjoyed this book, however I feel the series is being drawn out. Good story line of young adult love with the potential to with stand adversity. The epilogue seems rushed and not a good lead for the third and hopefully happy ending for Edy and Hassan. Maybe Ms Pugh will develop the characters; the friends after college.
I enjoyed this book #2, however I feel the series is the series is being drawn out. Good story line of young adult love that has the potential to with stand family and cultural adversity. Didn't care for the epilogue. It seems to cover too much and doesn't feel like a smooth transition to the 3rd book. Hopefully Edy and Hassan will have their happily ever after, with each other.
I enjoyed this book #2, however I feel the series is the series is being drawn out. Good story line of young adult love that has the potential to with stand family and cultural adversity. Didn't care for the epilogue. It seems to cover too much and doesn't feel like a smooth transition to the 3rd book. Hopefully Edy and Hassan will have their happily ever after, with each other.
February 22, 2015
I read Shewanda Pugh’s LOVE, EDY for review in August of this year, a gift from the author for winning a contest on her Facebook page. Young adult romance is not on my short list of favorites but the book looked good so I read it. The pleasant surprise I felt at the time was mind boggling.
So needless to say, I jumped at the chance when offered an ARC copy of the sequel, BITTERSWEET.
The story picks up where LOVE, EDY left off, in the aftermath of a tragic attack. Both Hassan and Edy weather the resulting storm as they pursue their new relationship while hiding it from their parents. The results tear their families apart.
It’s an emotionally charged story in the highest sense about family, love and cultures that don’t just clash, they explode. The characters of Edy and Hassan are so well drawn that I felt as if I were placed in the story as an invisible observer watching the events play out as a movie. No mean fete to write and certainly difficult to pull off well, but Shewanda Pugh has done it.
Background characters are supporting and not overwhelming. The Dyson boys add much needed humor at the right times and Edy’s girlfriends paint a realistic picture of teenaged girls in 21st century America, both supporting and condemning Edy’s choices as only teenagers can do. While billed as a young adult novel, BITTERSWEET transcends the constraints of the young adult genre, able to be enjoyed and appreciated by all ages. We all have felt and lived the issues that Edy and Hassan live through.
The covers for both BITTERSWEET and LOVE, EDY are beautiful tributes to their exceptional stories but please note that BITTERSWEET is not a stand-alone novel. It picks up where LOVE, EDY leaves off. You should definitely read LOVE, EDY first if you haven’t already.
So needless to say, I jumped at the chance when offered an ARC copy of the sequel, BITTERSWEET.
The story picks up where LOVE, EDY left off, in the aftermath of a tragic attack. Both Hassan and Edy weather the resulting storm as they pursue their new relationship while hiding it from their parents. The results tear their families apart.
It’s an emotionally charged story in the highest sense about family, love and cultures that don’t just clash, they explode. The characters of Edy and Hassan are so well drawn that I felt as if I were placed in the story as an invisible observer watching the events play out as a movie. No mean fete to write and certainly difficult to pull off well, but Shewanda Pugh has done it.
Background characters are supporting and not overwhelming. The Dyson boys add much needed humor at the right times and Edy’s girlfriends paint a realistic picture of teenaged girls in 21st century America, both supporting and condemning Edy’s choices as only teenagers can do. While billed as a young adult novel, BITTERSWEET transcends the constraints of the young adult genre, able to be enjoyed and appreciated by all ages. We all have felt and lived the issues that Edy and Hassan live through.
The covers for both BITTERSWEET and LOVE, EDY are beautiful tributes to their exceptional stories but please note that BITTERSWEET is not a stand-alone novel. It picks up where LOVE, EDY leaves off. You should definitely read LOVE, EDY first if you haven’t already.
March 2, 2015
At the end of book #1 Love Edy, readers were left with the tragic accident and we held our breath to see what would become of Hassan and Edy. Unfortunately, life for the pair of lovebirds is about to become even more difficult as their shared kissing experience wasn't very well hidden and Hassan's mother saw the whole thing unfold. This isn't good since of course Hassan's mum is still stuck in the old ways, where traditions matter and second of all - Hassan has already been set up for an arranged marriage and what on earth would the daughter and family he is to be married into , think of all that has happened. So begins a family war, sort of a Smith vs Jones type of thing that we often see on movies, where one family becomes rivals with the other over a marriage or relationship and as the war of the families begin soon the pair are constantly being pulled into opposite directions. Can their love stand the negative backlash it is recieving or will one of them bow at the pressure and reflect and ask themselves , is this relationship worth all the fighting ? As this stories main thread is the family dynamics of both now rivalling families, I did enjoy how they brought in other family members as it added a bit more mixture to the pot - to see a deeper understanding of tradition vs modern society and culture. The only downside to this book was that like the first one for myself, I found parts of it to be sort of jumping all over the place and I found in places to be a tad confused onto what was going on but then in other parts, I was able to catch up with the story.
This book is a great read if you are looking for something culturally different and is interested in the viewpoints of tradition vs today's society especially in the middle eastern and american worlds.
This book is a great read if you are looking for something culturally different and is interested in the viewpoints of tradition vs today's society especially in the middle eastern and american worlds.
October 14, 2022
Shewanda Pugh has completely shifted the paradigm with Bittersweet; entirely enthralling. The amount of angst, frustration and overwhelming teenage hormones had me yanking at my hair! I loved the dynamics between Edy and Hassan; and to think they're teenagers!!!
I felt like I was able to connect with the growth of the characters between this book and the last. They were more mature, but at the same time they had that “I’m still a child” vibe. I loved the fact that even when it seemed like Edy and Hassan were growing apart and others could possibly encroaching on their territory, they were able to smooth things out and get back on track with their true selves.
The grandparents were a welcomed interruption to life. I would have loved for there to be more interaction with the connection spurned between Edy and her grandparents. On the same note of more interaction, I feel cheated on the aspect of Edy and Wyatt. I felt like there was so much left unsaid; so much more that needs to be explored.
I have to say that all in all, Shewanda has delivered yet again; as though I expected anything less! She has definitely put herself into that category where I’ll buy her books without even knowing what they’re about. Her name as an author is her best asset and I can’t wait to see what she does next. BRAVO DIVA!!!
I felt like I was able to connect with the growth of the characters between this book and the last. They were more mature, but at the same time they had that “I’m still a child” vibe. I loved the fact that even when it seemed like Edy and Hassan were growing apart and others could possibly encroaching on their territory, they were able to smooth things out and get back on track with their true selves.
The grandparents were a welcomed interruption to life. I would have loved for there to be more interaction with the connection spurned between Edy and her grandparents. On the same note of more interaction, I feel cheated on the aspect of Edy and Wyatt. I felt like there was so much left unsaid; so much more that needs to be explored.
I have to say that all in all, Shewanda has delivered yet again; as though I expected anything less! She has definitely put herself into that category where I’ll buy her books without even knowing what they’re about. Her name as an author is her best asset and I can’t wait to see what she does next. BRAVO DIVA!!!
May 20, 2015
I'm really trying to figure out the purpose of this book. After reading the first book in this series, Love Edy, I was expecting a much more dramatic book because now Hassan's mom knows their together and she's going to tell everyone, split them apart, whatever. I figured something crazy would happen to try to get them apart, but nothing happened. Absolutely nothing. The only thing that really happened in this book is the passage of time. By the end of the book Edy is 17 almost 18 and Hassan is 18 and despite the fact that supposedly their parents are so against them being together they don't do anything about it.
I was really hoping this book was going to be really interesting but I was sorely disappointed. At this point however I still think that if given the chance where the next book is free or very very cheap, I might get it just to see what happens next. Especially since they are closer to my age.
I was really hoping this book was going to be really interesting but I was sorely disappointed. At this point however I still think that if given the chance where the next book is free or very very cheap, I might get it just to see what happens next. Especially since they are closer to my age.
December 13, 2014
This was like dark chocolate
First I would like to say that I enjoyed this story so very much.I have been on pins waiting and finally,but I have some points that need to be expressed.1.From the beginning of this story you get a frantic pace.I mean this traumatic episode happens and I feel it's handled to lightly.2.The two main characters escape for awhile what was this about?3.Also they make love really,know kinda of scenes,not that I support under age sex but really.4.The pace of this story is so frantic at times that I have to stop and breathe.5.The ending what the heck! To say that I was not at all thrilled with this story's ending is definitely bittersweet.Overall a good solid read worth your time and energy.
First I would like to say that I enjoyed this story so very much.I have been on pins waiting and finally,but I have some points that need to be expressed.1.From the beginning of this story you get a frantic pace.I mean this traumatic episode happens and I feel it's handled to lightly.2.The two main characters escape for awhile what was this about?3.Also they make love really,know kinda of scenes,not that I support under age sex but really.4.The pace of this story is so frantic at times that I have to stop and breathe.5.The ending what the heck! To say that I was not at all thrilled with this story's ending is definitely bittersweet.Overall a good solid read worth your time and energy.
April 18, 2015
I thoroughly enjoy Shewanda Pugh's work. I love her complex, melodic descriptions of the characters' relationships. She is consistent with the direct and frank dialogue between real people with so much left unsaid.
Still, I felt a little let down with this one....that special something ever present in Love Edy was blatantly absent in this sequel. To avoid any spoiler alerts, I'll just say that the title is utterly befitting. Without any blatantly obvious cliffhangers, the ending manages to feel so incomplete and ambiguous. This of course leaves me wanting more answers and more for the lives of these characters to whom I've grown so attached.
Hoping for more Edy!
Still, I felt a little let down with this one....that special something ever present in Love Edy was blatantly absent in this sequel. To avoid any spoiler alerts, I'll just say that the title is utterly befitting. Without any blatantly obvious cliffhangers, the ending manages to feel so incomplete and ambiguous. This of course leaves me wanting more answers and more for the lives of these characters to whom I've grown so attached.
Hoping for more Edy!
June 26, 2015
My whole attitude towards Edy has changed. She no longer has the questions that she once had so diminishes the passions that she's always held...or so you think. In the original story she was was a child bravely facing a new world receiving our sympathy. Now she casts it back to us as she grows into an impersonal woman of the world--a character we no longer know.
I will likely get the third in this series; but I don't see how this could end well. Crimson Footsteps 3 put me through the ringer and nearly destroyed my admiration of the characters. I'm not ready to go through that again. I can see the romantic thriller plot building already.
I will likely get the third in this series; but I don't see how this could end well. Crimson Footsteps 3 put me through the ringer and nearly destroyed my admiration of the characters. I'm not ready to go through that again. I can see the romantic thriller plot building already.
January 21, 2015
This book was incredible with a moving story line and well-developed characters. There is so much that rings true about the decisions, doubts, insecurities, and obstacles a couple like Edy and Hassan would have to face that the story is enjoyable and intriguing. I love the way it examines relationships and personal motivations at a variety of levels. The excerpt for book 3 has me on the edge of my seat with its promise of even harder choices to be made that will undoubtedly impact Hassan and Edy's relationship. I can hardly wait!! Great Job Shewanda Pugh!!
December 14, 2014
Once again you have made me smile Shewanda. I truly enjoy reading your work and I was Pleasantly satisfied with the follow-up to "Love Edy". Rani totally disappointed me as well as Rebecca on her actions, but the biggest surprise was Ali's justification as to why Edy and Hassan could not be together. I'm friending to read the next book in this series. Hopefully the wait will not be a long one. Great job of writing once again Shewanda!
December 10, 2014
Loved it
I really enjoyed this book. The characters and plot were well written. I really found myself drawn into it and couldn't put it down until I finished. I felt for Edy as she struggled trying to figure out how Hassan and she could be together but it seems like everyone is against them. I really look forward to reading more from this amazing author.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters and plot were well written. I really found myself drawn into it and couldn't put it down until I finished. I felt for Edy as she struggled trying to figure out how Hassan and she could be together but it seems like everyone is against them. I really look forward to reading more from this amazing author.
April 5, 2017
A true love story
Edy and Hassan , young and in love, committed to each other and their dreams, it's them against the world.....this story line is very well thought out, book 1 and 2 are great reads
Edy and Hassan , young and in love, committed to each other and their dreams, it's them against the world.....this story line is very well thought out, book 1 and 2 are great reads
April 17, 2015
Review to come.
February 3, 2015
Please continue, Ms. Pugh. Had a few slow spots,but all in all, a great series. Waiting for part 3. P.S. His mama is CRAZY!!!
March 16, 2015
Great
This series is so tantalizing, so entangled with ups and downs that make your crave for more.
I can't wait to read the next book.
This series is so tantalizing, so entangled with ups and downs that make your crave for more.
I can't wait to read the next book.
April 28, 2017
The book was really good but once again I felt that there was a lot going on. One thing was being said and then in a blink of an eye something else is being done. I was somewhat confused and had to reread.
I want to know what's going to happen next so book 3 here I come!
I want to know what's going to happen next so book 3 here I come!
April 29, 2017
Definitely Bitter Sweet
I loved the first book so much that I anticipated the next one. This story didn't disappoint. Edy and Hassan are adorable characters and I can't get enough of them. Their plight is interesting and can't wait to read the next book. Kudos to the author, she has won another dedicated fan.
I loved the first book so much that I anticipated the next one. This story didn't disappoint. Edy and Hassan are adorable characters and I can't get enough of them. Their plight is interesting and can't wait to read the next book. Kudos to the author, she has won another dedicated fan.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews