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Boomerang #3
Bounce
Playing the occasional club gig just isn’t cutting it for twenty-two-year-old cellist Skyler Canby, who’s trying to support herself and her mother back home in Kentucky. Persuaded by her best friend Beth to accompany her on an audition for the first feature film launched by Blackwood Entertainment, she figures why not? Beth’s a shoe-in for the lead, but maybe Skyler’s newly dyed pink hair will help her stand out enough to score a small speaking part.
Never in her wildest dreams does Skyler imagine she’ll land the lead role or that she’ll have her shoes knocked off her feet by the kiss her audition partner, Grey Blackwood, plants on her—a kiss that feels very real and not at all “acted. ”
After throwing a party that causes thousands of dollars of damage to his older brother’s home, reckless musician Grey Blackwood gets roped into working off his debt on the set of his CEO brother’s newest project. Grey spends his days fetching coffee and doing odd jobs around the studio, but he lives for nights when he performs with his band. He knows if he can stay focused, success as a singer is just around the corner. But that’s tough with a distracting pink-haired girl occupying his every waking thought.
Skyler and Grey have every reason to resist each other. But, like a song neither of them can get out of their minds, they have no choice but to go where the music takes them.
Never in her wildest dreams does Skyler imagine she’ll land the lead role or that she’ll have her shoes knocked off her feet by the kiss her audition partner, Grey Blackwood, plants on her—a kiss that feels very real and not at all “acted. ”
After throwing a party that causes thousands of dollars of damage to his older brother’s home, reckless musician Grey Blackwood gets roped into working off his debt on the set of his CEO brother’s newest project. Grey spends his days fetching coffee and doing odd jobs around the studio, but he lives for nights when he performs with his band. He knows if he can stay focused, success as a singer is just around the corner. But that’s tough with a distracting pink-haired girl occupying his every waking thought.
Skyler and Grey have every reason to resist each other. But, like a song neither of them can get out of their minds, they have no choice but to go where the music takes them.
304 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2015
13 people are currently reading
1371 people want to read
About the author
Noelle August
11 books281 followersNOELLE AUGUST is an anagram for Veronica Rossi and Lorin Oberweger. Just kidding, it's a pen name!
VERONICA ROSSI is the author of the New York Times Best-selling UNDER THE NEVER SKY trilogy for young adults. The books are available in more than thirty countries and the film rights have been optioned by Warner Bros.
Veronica completed undergraduate studies at UCLA and lives in Northern California with her husband and two sons. She is fond of dresses with pockets, fluffy dogs, and cheese and chocolate -- but not together.
LORIN OBERWEGER began her storytelling career by captivating her first-grade class with tales of her summers on a kibbutz in Israel.
Lorin had never been to Israel.
While teacher/parent night put an end to her first experiments in fiction, she’d already caught the bug and eventually made a career of all things story.
As a long-time independent editor and story development guru, Lorin's client successes range from small press publications to major bestselling novels. She's an award-winning author and has also worked behind the scenes as a ghostwriter on a variety of projects. Her work has received starred Kirkus reviews and glowing mentions in The New York Times.
Oh, she did get to see a kibbutz, eventually, and found out she had it pretty much right all along.
Veronica and Lorin met at a writing workshop and just knew they were destined to create awesome things together.
VERONICA ROSSI is the author of the New York Times Best-selling UNDER THE NEVER SKY trilogy for young adults. The books are available in more than thirty countries and the film rights have been optioned by Warner Bros.
Veronica completed undergraduate studies at UCLA and lives in Northern California with her husband and two sons. She is fond of dresses with pockets, fluffy dogs, and cheese and chocolate -- but not together.
LORIN OBERWEGER began her storytelling career by captivating her first-grade class with tales of her summers on a kibbutz in Israel.
Lorin had never been to Israel.
While teacher/parent night put an end to her first experiments in fiction, she’d already caught the bug and eventually made a career of all things story.
As a long-time independent editor and story development guru, Lorin's client successes range from small press publications to major bestselling novels. She's an award-winning author and has also worked behind the scenes as a ghostwriter on a variety of projects. Her work has received starred Kirkus reviews and glowing mentions in The New York Times.
Oh, she did get to see a kibbutz, eventually, and found out she had it pretty much right all along.
Veronica and Lorin met at a writing workshop and just knew they were destined to create awesome things together.
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January 20, 2018
► I often joke with my friends on here about ratings and what they mean. The fact is, I can ponder and ponder my opinion but eventually, there's no such thing as an objective review, whether you are a professional or a random reviewer like me. That's why, even though I know that many readers customize the meaning of their ratings (and that's great), I don't do that. I follow Goodreads' "default settings" : if I didn't like a book, well, it'll be a 1. Of course I pay attention at my peeves and there are objective aspects that will bring me on the train wreck road - but in the end, it remains my enjoyment and my perception. Similarly, even flawed, a book that offers me more and that stands out from other books in the same genre can completely get a 5. Bounce belongs to this category in my opinion.
True Fact : Every time I start a New Adult romance I'm scared to death of what I might find. Fortunately Bounce didn't let me down.
✘ What I was afraid to get : Jealousy disguised as friendship.
✔ What I got : Girl friendship well-developed with real interactions.
The women here are real friends : they are happy for the others success, but sometimes they don't know how to react to sub-mentioned success. It was so relatable to me, I couldn't help but feel their struggles and their fears. Look, to become a teacher in France you have to pass a contest and well, as always with a contest, everybody isn't chosen, no matter how good everybody is. When I passed that exam, some of my friends passed as well and some of them didn't. Frankly, it was maybe one of the most uncomfortable situation of my life. How can you express your disappointment for a friend with the right words when you succeeded where he didn't? It's extremely difficult. In Bounce Mia, Beth and Skyler are facing this kind of situations and it was handled with care and honesty. I loved that, and every aspect of their friendship warmed my heart.
✘ What I was afraid to get : Girl hate
✔ What I got : No slut-shaming. At all. NOT AN HINT OF IT. From anyone, women and men as well.
✘ What I was afraid to get : Overabundance of angst, and dramatic (useless) twists
✔ What I got : Several NA clichés but rather discreet : they both have family problems, but we never enter the "I'm the most UNLUCKY person of the world" syndrome (see Kat's review of Boomerang about this, she summed it up perfectly). Here are two persons who are searching for what they want to do with their lives, and discover each other along the way. Here are two persons who need to learn where they place their limits when it comes to expectations from people around them. In a word : How to stand for themselves and respect themselves no matter what others think.
✘ What I was afraid to get : An older controlling dude whose experience will, somehow
✔ What I got : First, the guy is younger! Yes, it is refreshing. So, Grey. Apart from the fact that I don't understand how Noelle August could choose this name (I mean, COME ON!) I have to admit that I really REALLY enjoyed his character. Yes, he's immature, and annoying, and impulsive (never ever violent, though). To sum up : he's kind of a mess. But all his actions just rang so... true. He was believable, and frankly? His inner monologues made me laugh my ass off. Yep. I admit. I don't know what that says about me, though.
"Over on the kitchen island, heaps of liquor bottles, beer cans, Solo cups, and - what the hell is that? A person? Okay."
Actually, I wrote on a status that he was cliché-ish but hey, anything can happen I guess (I know, shut up) because I have to say, I was wrong.
Seriously - He's way more than this tattooed musician stereotype : He's raw and passionate and just fucking lost - but so, so endearing, thoughtful, and sweet. I know what you think : yeah, right. As always. Tough dude sweet inside. Candy-ish. Nope. That's not it. The fact is, I was judgmental. I assumed that since he was tattooed and a musician he would be like any other 'player' character ( who I can't stand - or barely - or really, rarely). He wasn't. Just go meet him, because the way his character develops was wonderful.
✘ What I was afraid to get : A perfect and pure and virginal (of course!) heroine
✔ What I got : Skyler isn't over-confident but strong-minded : she knows that she needs to do to help her family but she has no idea how to do it - her doubts and hesitations were never annoying but on the contrary I could always understand her and I cared for her. So you know : I liked the girl.
✘ What I was afraid to get : Instalove and all that crap
✔ What I got : Insta-(off the charts)chemistry, and the slow built up of a friendship that will gradually turn into something more (okay, Grey was smitten :P). It's been a very, very long time since I genuinely rooted for a couple like that in New Adult. They learn to be there for each other, to talk, to accept their flaws and... actually, Skyler said it better than I could ever do :
"It's not that he makes me strong or whole. It's that with him, I remember how strong and whole I am."
Oh, and as it seems to be the day I'm breaking rules, there's a sort of love-triangle. Never ever bothered me, because Grey and Skyler share a friendship at the time and that's just GREAT. You know, let's be buds? (that's not me who said that. That's Grey. Yes, he knows it sounds ridiculous. Give him a break. He was recording. Kind of.)
► So, this is it. Even though I have 1,000,000 things to add (music! Grey's friends! The assholes who let Skyler think that she needs to lose weight! Etc!), I guess I'll let you discover for yourself. But this book? That's what I need to find : not perfection, not necessarily originality, but honesty, real feelings, not to mention that huge smile plastered on my face. Yeah, there's that too.
"I'm smiling so big, I want to punch myself."
*arc kindly provided by HarperCollins through Edelweiss*
September 23, 2016
Boomerang Review
Rebound Review
I am just so ridiculously happy that I kept on going with the series after the disappointment that was Rebound.
Books like these are the reason I refuse to give up on NA
Bounce had all I love about contemporary housed into on book.
✿Fun: Bounce had me constantly cracking a smile! I was laughing and rereading scenes because they were just hilarious and I couldn't get enough. The characters were all a breathe of fresh air. Seriously this book excelled where Boomerang and Rebound fell short, especially Rebound. ESPECIALLY REBOUND.
✿Girl friendship: Guys! FOR REAL. There was actual girl friendship and not just frenemies out to get you friendship. No. This was real and heartfelt. Just when you think things might get catty Bounce proves that NA books can truly have friends without the drama and hypocrisy. They can have friends that are really there for you when you're down. Friends that rejoice in your accomplishments and encourage you to be the best. Le sigh, why could other NAs be like this? WHY?
✿Angst: LOL I'm serious, just hear me out. I don't do angst, as you can tell with any book I've read lately. Instead of making me feel something for the characters, it just makes me roll my eyes and get pissed off. I'm not cold-hearted, per se, but I could say I'm generally indifferent. BUT I do admit there is a good kind of angst. The kind that's not too much. The kind that, while sad, is still bearable and believable where, yes, the characters are having a hard time but, no, they don't shout to the four corners of the earth how shitty life is always treating them, you know? So it's ok when it's in the right amount. And yes this was in the perfect amount people!
✿Grey:
Because, yes, he is the kind of hero I could always root for. Why? Because he constantly rang true. His emotions where palpable and raw and honest. While he may seem stereotypical when he's introduced (he screams bad boy), trust me when I say, he's not. He's so much more than his tattoos and bad behavior. He's so much more than a simple musician. He's just...freaking perfect. He's vulnerable and sweet. And dear Lord, sexy as feck! I might need a cold after this *cheeky smile*
So in the end, it was fun and I'm terribly sad I won't be seeing more of Grey in my future. *sigh*
Oh! BTW, there's a triangle, but screw the triangle cause I honestly couldn't have cared less.
Also, Anna I feel like hugging the heck out of you cause if it hadn't been for your review I would have never met the cuteness that is Grey!!!
Check out her review poeple!
Bounce Review
Pre-review:
I refuse to let overthinking change my rating so I'm rating this now and reviewing it later ^_^
But just in case you missed it, This freaking ROCKS!!!!
Rebound Review
I am just so ridiculously happy that I kept on going with the series after the disappointment that was Rebound.
Books like these are the reason I refuse to give up on NA
Bounce had all I love about contemporary housed into on book.
✿Fun: Bounce had me constantly cracking a smile! I was laughing and rereading scenes because they were just hilarious and I couldn't get enough. The characters were all a breathe of fresh air. Seriously this book excelled where Boomerang and Rebound fell short, especially Rebound. ESPECIALLY REBOUND.
✿Girl friendship: Guys! FOR REAL. There was actual girl friendship and not just frenemies out to get you friendship. No. This was real and heartfelt. Just when you think things might get catty Bounce proves that NA books can truly have friends without the drama and hypocrisy. They can have friends that are really there for you when you're down. Friends that rejoice in your accomplishments and encourage you to be the best. Le sigh, why could other NAs be like this? WHY?
✿Angst: LOL I'm serious, just hear me out. I don't do angst, as you can tell with any book I've read lately. Instead of making me feel something for the characters, it just makes me roll my eyes and get pissed off. I'm not cold-hearted, per se, but I could say I'm generally indifferent. BUT I do admit there is a good kind of angst. The kind that's not too much. The kind that, while sad, is still bearable and believable where, yes, the characters are having a hard time but, no, they don't shout to the four corners of the earth how shitty life is always treating them, you know? So it's ok when it's in the right amount. And yes this was in the perfect amount people!
✿Grey:
Because, yes, he is the kind of hero I could always root for. Why? Because he constantly rang true. His emotions where palpable and raw and honest. While he may seem stereotypical when he's introduced (he screams bad boy), trust me when I say, he's not. He's so much more than his tattoos and bad behavior. He's so much more than a simple musician. He's just...freaking perfect. He's vulnerable and sweet. And dear Lord, sexy as feck! I might need a cold after this *cheeky smile*
So in the end, it was fun and I'm terribly sad I won't be seeing more of Grey in my future. *sigh*
Oh! BTW, there's a triangle, but screw the triangle cause I honestly couldn't have cared less.
Also, Anna I feel like hugging the heck out of you cause if it hadn't been for your review I would have never met the cuteness that is Grey!!!
Check out her review poeple!
Bounce Review
Pre-review:
I refuse to let overthinking change my rating so I'm rating this now and reviewing it later ^_^
But just in case you missed it, This freaking ROCKS!!!!
August 27, 2015
This is another case of it's not you, it's me. Gaaah, I so badly wanted to like this. Truly, I did. It's just even though Grey charmed the hell out of me (He's this tattooed bad boy on the outside but inside, he's pure squish. AHIDHAIOFHAIJDOPAFJSAHDJHSKL!!!! He's hilarious and sweet and ugh he's immature sometimes but I get him), I just couldn't make myself care for Skyler. At. All. And I knew right then that that was bad. I didn't ship them much. No fuzzy feelings here for me. No chemistry. Nada. The little I felt for the two of them was ruined by my disconnection to Skyler. Ugh. (Okay but if I were being honest, it was probably because I wanted Grey for myself. I SHIP ME AND GREY <3 Hehe.)
Another thing, there's this sort of love triangle that bothered me. It wasn't even a proper love triangle because the other guy was pretty much ignored most of the time but still. I hate love triangles and I can't believe I let it ruin my enjoyment for a book once again. Ugh.
Another thing, there's this sort of love triangle that bothered me. It wasn't even a proper love triangle because the other guy was pretty much ignored most of the time but still. I hate love triangles and I can't believe I let it ruin my enjoyment for a book once again. Ugh.
July 22, 2015
I love Noelle August.
When their books show up for me to read … it looks like this at my house.
Rebound is still one of my all-time favorite new adult reads and I don’t imagine it’s going to go anywhere! But Bounce has now made it on my favorites list as well!
Bounce is the third in this companion series and I was waiting impatiently for this one because IT IS GREY!! Grey is Adam’s younger half-brother and we meet him in the aftermath of an insane party.
A coating of party debris – cups, crushed chips, peanuts and beer cans – covers the coffee table and floor. Over on the kitchen island, heaps of liquor bottles, beer cans, Solo cups, and – what the hell is that? A person? Okay. Someone’s asleep on the counter. That’s bad.
So let’s just say that Grey starts out a little bit in trouble. In order to make good and help pay for all the cleaning and repairs Adam makes Grey work for him as an assistant to the star of the film his company is producing. And this is where he meets Skylar.
Skylar is trying to support herself and her mom back home and the occasional club gig just isn’t working. With the support of her roommates Beth and Mia, she decides to audition for the film that Blackwood Entertainment is producing. What she doesn’t expect is to connect and have any chemistry with the guy filling in for the leading man during auditions.
Both Grey and Skylar have other things going on in their lives. Grey has finally figured out what he wants for his life, but while he’s figured that out, he’s pushed his step-mother away. I honestly felt bad for Grey and not because of the family issues, but more because he has this feeling of not living up to these expectations that he thinks his family has for him. With a successful father and brother he struggles to figure out how exactly he’s supposed to fit in and so he pushes the one person he’s always yearned for approval from, away.
Skylar herself has family issues too – her father is a musician and always on the road, leaving her mother to fend for herself. Skylar has become the one person her mother depends on and she continues to ask her to come home to Kentucky to help… but she knows if she heads home, she’ll never get to leave again. But that’s not the only thing happening with her. As the lead actress in the movie, she feels certain expectations and those in addition to her family things are causing a lot of stress.
I think one of my favorite things about this story, besides Grey, is the female friendships. I won’t lie, there was one point I thought that we were going to get some drama, but I was so happy to see that it didn’t happen. That instead of showing this superficial version of friendship they instead show how amazing it can be to have people… girlfriends… who are there to support you and push you to do the things you want to do.
But Grey you guys… he’s totally a mess right now, but he’s adorable and funny and sweet and just wonderfully kind. I adored everything about him. He’s so passionate about what he wants and I just love how he totally falls for Skylar. He’s all in about his feelings for her and I love that he didn’t do the cliché thing and sleep around to try and forget about her while they aren’t together.
There is a bit of a triangle here… but it makes sense. I’m not going to provide you with details, but it actually allowed for the friendship between Skylar and Grey to deepen and progress at a great pace and eventually lead to the romance. I loved watching these two get to know each other and fall further and further.
Overall, I really enjoyed this addition to this series. I’m sad to say that I think this is the end … I swear I’m not really crying, my allergies are just bothering me. I’m definitely interested in seeing what is next for Rossi & Oberweger… they work amazingly well together and I hope we get to see more in the near future… I mean… there are a lot of other friends in these books, couldn’t we keep going?
If you’re looking for a fun, new adult series, these books are for you. There’s a reason I had this series on my summer must read list a couple weeks ago. The Noelle August writing duo are masters at romance, and swoon and they tell an amazing story along the way.
Thank you to William Morrow for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
When their books show up for me to read … it looks like this at my house.
Rebound is still one of my all-time favorite new adult reads and I don’t imagine it’s going to go anywhere! But Bounce has now made it on my favorites list as well!
Bounce is the third in this companion series and I was waiting impatiently for this one because IT IS GREY!! Grey is Adam’s younger half-brother and we meet him in the aftermath of an insane party.
A coating of party debris – cups, crushed chips, peanuts and beer cans – covers the coffee table and floor. Over on the kitchen island, heaps of liquor bottles, beer cans, Solo cups, and – what the hell is that? A person? Okay. Someone’s asleep on the counter. That’s bad.
So let’s just say that Grey starts out a little bit in trouble. In order to make good and help pay for all the cleaning and repairs Adam makes Grey work for him as an assistant to the star of the film his company is producing. And this is where he meets Skylar.
Skylar is trying to support herself and her mom back home and the occasional club gig just isn’t working. With the support of her roommates Beth and Mia, she decides to audition for the film that Blackwood Entertainment is producing. What she doesn’t expect is to connect and have any chemistry with the guy filling in for the leading man during auditions.
Both Grey and Skylar have other things going on in their lives. Grey has finally figured out what he wants for his life, but while he’s figured that out, he’s pushed his step-mother away. I honestly felt bad for Grey and not because of the family issues, but more because he has this feeling of not living up to these expectations that he thinks his family has for him. With a successful father and brother he struggles to figure out how exactly he’s supposed to fit in and so he pushes the one person he’s always yearned for approval from, away.
Skylar herself has family issues too – her father is a musician and always on the road, leaving her mother to fend for herself. Skylar has become the one person her mother depends on and she continues to ask her to come home to Kentucky to help… but she knows if she heads home, she’ll never get to leave again. But that’s not the only thing happening with her. As the lead actress in the movie, she feels certain expectations and those in addition to her family things are causing a lot of stress.
I think one of my favorite things about this story, besides Grey, is the female friendships. I won’t lie, there was one point I thought that we were going to get some drama, but I was so happy to see that it didn’t happen. That instead of showing this superficial version of friendship they instead show how amazing it can be to have people… girlfriends… who are there to support you and push you to do the things you want to do.
But Grey you guys… he’s totally a mess right now, but he’s adorable and funny and sweet and just wonderfully kind. I adored everything about him. He’s so passionate about what he wants and I just love how he totally falls for Skylar. He’s all in about his feelings for her and I love that he didn’t do the cliché thing and sleep around to try and forget about her while they aren’t together.
There is a bit of a triangle here… but it makes sense. I’m not going to provide you with details, but it actually allowed for the friendship between Skylar and Grey to deepen and progress at a great pace and eventually lead to the romance. I loved watching these two get to know each other and fall further and further.
Overall, I really enjoyed this addition to this series. I’m sad to say that I think this is the end … I swear I’m not really crying, my allergies are just bothering me. I’m definitely interested in seeing what is next for Rossi & Oberweger… they work amazingly well together and I hope we get to see more in the near future… I mean… there are a lot of other friends in these books, couldn’t we keep going?
If you’re looking for a fun, new adult series, these books are for you. There’s a reason I had this series on my summer must read list a couple weeks ago. The Noelle August writing duo are masters at romance, and swoon and they tell an amazing story along the way.
Thank you to William Morrow for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
August 14, 2015
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Bounce by Noelle August
Book Three of the Boomerang series
Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks
Publication Date: August 25, 2015
Rating: 1 star
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
Summary (from Goodreads):
Playing the occasional club gig just isn’t cutting it for twenty-two-year-old cellist Skyler Canby, who’s trying to support herself and her mother back home in Kentucky. Persuaded by her best friend Beth to accompany her on an audition for the first feature film launched by Blackwood Entertainment, she figures why not? Beth’s a shoe-in for the lead, but maybe Skyler’s newly dyed pink hair will help her stand out enough to score a small speaking part.
Never in her wildest dreams does Skyler imagine she’ll land the lead role or that she’ll have her shoes knocked off her feet by the kiss her audition partner, Grey Blackwood, plants on her—a kiss that feels very real and not at all “acted. ”
After throwing a party that causes thousands of dollars of damage to his older brother’s home, reckless musician Grey Blackwood gets roped into working off his debt on the set of his CEO brother’s newest project. Grey spends his days fetching coffee and doing odd jobs around the studio, but he lives for nights when he performs with his band. He knows if he can stay focused, success as a singer is just around the corner. But that’s tough with a distracting pink-haired girl occupying his every waking thought.
Skyler and Grey have every reason to resist each other. But, like a song neither of them can get out of their minds, they have no choice but to go where the music takes them.
What I Liked:
This book was a disappointment. I thought this would be my favorite of the series, because I was so intrigued by Grey since we "met" him earlier in the series. I thought Boomerang was okay, not great. I liked Rebound. This book was supposed to be my favorite, but instead, it is my least favorite of the series.
Grey is roped into working for his older brother Adam when he throws a party while Adam is away, and trashes his brother's house. Somehow, Grey ends up helping with the movie that Adam's company is filming. The male lead isn't available on audition day, so Grey fills in... which is how he and Skyler end up sharing a steamy kiss. Skyler is the newly cast lead of said film, and she can't stop thinking about the live sexual tension between her and Grey. Grey is on-set all time, acting as an assistant for the male lead of the film. With all that is going on in his personal life, does Grey need to be trying to get with the pretty girl who has the interest of the young director and Adam's friend, Brooks? Maybe not, but Grey and Skyler have off-the-charts chemistry, and the ball is in Skyler's court.
What did I actually like about this book? The beginning started really well. Super strong, very engaging, I couldn't flip the pages fast enough. Grey and Skyler meet just before the audition, by chance, when both of them want to get some fresh air. Both of them are interested in each other at this point. Even better is when Grey has to step in for the male lead (Garrett, I believe his name is?), and Grey acts out a scene with each hopeful girl. He is bored and hates doing it, until Skyler's audition. They make it through the entire scene, which involves a rather steamy kiss, steamier than on the script.
Things were going great at this point! I can't remember exactly at where this point was in the book, but I think it was around one-fifth in? So there was still a loooong way to go, but I was really feeling this book!
I absolutely adore Grey. I was on "his side" throughout the entire book, both relating to Skyler, and his mother. He has a lot of issues going, and he is a lot more than a drunk who likes to party. His "mother" is actually Adam's mother. Grey's stepmother. Grey and Madeline have things to work through, but Grey is stubborn and won't talk to her. Grey's band is doing so well, and it is what is driving him. He hates working for Adam, but likes what is going on between Skyler and him (though it honestly felt like nothing was going on - but I'll get to that in a minute). I really, really like Grey. I think he gave Skyler one too many chances, and she doesn't deserve him.
Moving on, proceed with caution: possible spoilers ahead.
What I Did Not Like:
I. Did. Not. Like. Skyler. And I know some people are going to be upset with me when I list my reasons why. The biggest thing I didn't like about her was her wishy-washy, vacillating behavior. There is somewhat of a love triangle in this story, and I find none of it okay. So I guess I'll make sure you all know that I HATE LOVE TRIANGLES and this is ENTIRELY an Alyssa issue. So if you love them, like them, aren't bothered by them, good for you.
Grey and Skyler's "thing" dominate the first third or so of the book. But Skyler keeps pushing Grey away, even though it is very clear that their desire and emotions are mutual (I'll get to the emotions part in a minute, too). Brooks shows a bit of interest in her (remember, he is the director of the film, and Adam's friend), and she is always over him. She hangs out with him, goes to him when she and Grey part ways roughly. She kisses him, goes on dates with him, lets him in. I don't know what the deal with this is, but I am not okay with this. Meanwhile, she and Grey still maintain... something. Their intimacy is SUPER limited (Brooks gets more action than Grey does, after that initial kiss between Grey and Skyler).
Which leads me to my next complaint - Grey and Skyler have no relationship. They sprout feelings fast than you can crack an egg. They kiss once and suddenly he's all caveman-jealous of her and Brooks, and she feels guilty for being with Brooks. Their feelings are so deeply rooted after like, two interactions (Skyler and Grey's). Insta-love much? I can't even say it was insta-lust because it's not like they're only thinking about the kiss, or each other's bodies. It seemed too soon and too rushed for them to "in love" with each other.
And then they play the friend card. Or, Skyler does, so she can engage in a ridiculous love triangle with Brooks. I think one of her friends even points out the love triangle, using those exact two words. Not even a little okay, when you think you have strong feelings for someone else (again, HOW does she have those strong feelings already?!).
I suppose it's entirely possibly to have that strong of feelings towards someone else, mutually (Grey and Skyler). Maybe. But I wanted to FEEL this, EXPERIENCE this, SEE this. Don't just tell me in words that he's jealous of Brooks or she feels guilty about being with Brooks (but still does it anyway, wtf, wishy-washy much?).
Skyler and Grey could have used many more interactions. So many. They kiss once, and that's basically the book, in terms of intimacy. I personally didn't like this, and then there's the love triangle. That just made me lose all interest, as soon as Skyler started dating Brooks (and pretty quickly, too). I'm sure these things happen in real life all the time, but that doesn't mean that I personally want to read about it. You feel me?
So. Little relationship development between Skyler and Grey. Heck, at one point, I wanted Skyler and Brooks to get it on and get married or whatever because THEIR relationship was very well-developed! Also Skyler does not deserve Grey. He waits and waits for her, even does The Grand Gesture that the male protagonist ALWAYS DOES (why in the world can't the female protagonist ever be "wrong", and have to do The Grand Gesture? Seriously!?). Skyler... no. I was never, ever "on her side" in this book. And I know feminists are going to come after me with pepper spray and handbags. But look - I'm as much of a feminist as another feminist. And being a feminist is all about embracing your decisions as a woman. Well, Skyler couldn't freaking MAKE a decision - about who she actually liked, her weight, her mother. And in any case, my decisions wouldn't be hers, but we're both still two women, two feminists, living our lives (well, I am. Skyler is fictional). I don't like her, what she did, and I don't have to.
Not to mention that while their chemistry was popping in the beginning of the book... I was pretty turned off by the end of the book, so the one sex scene fell flat. And there are like, two make-out scenes in this book, INCLUDING the first one. Romance? Naaah. The romance was so poorly written and basically not even there. It was choppy and split up and not romantic at all, especially since the "romantic pair" were barely around each other for like, 60% of the book (the second 60%, not the first).
Again, I realize that these things happen in real life, and that some people have no issues with these things. But they are things that this girl does not prefer to read, and this is MY review of what I did and didn't like.
Would I Recommend It:
I absolutely canNOT recommend this book on a good conscience. I thought Boomerang was meh, okay, and Rebound was decent, slightly better. But this one tanked, for me. What should have been my favorite is actually one of the worst books I've read. The more I think about it, the more I disliked this book. I started with 2.5 stars, and now I'm down to 1 star. I'm frustrated and disappointed and I can't believe I put myself through this book!
Rating:
1.5 stars -> rounded down to 1 star. This series, overall, is so meh. I had and have zero faith in New Adult contemporary, and this book/series did not help much, unfortunately. But I love Veronica Rossi, so I had to give her a shot.
Bounce by Noelle August
Book Three of the Boomerang series
Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks
Publication Date: August 25, 2015
Rating: 1 star
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
Summary (from Goodreads):
Playing the occasional club gig just isn’t cutting it for twenty-two-year-old cellist Skyler Canby, who’s trying to support herself and her mother back home in Kentucky. Persuaded by her best friend Beth to accompany her on an audition for the first feature film launched by Blackwood Entertainment, she figures why not? Beth’s a shoe-in for the lead, but maybe Skyler’s newly dyed pink hair will help her stand out enough to score a small speaking part.
Never in her wildest dreams does Skyler imagine she’ll land the lead role or that she’ll have her shoes knocked off her feet by the kiss her audition partner, Grey Blackwood, plants on her—a kiss that feels very real and not at all “acted. ”
After throwing a party that causes thousands of dollars of damage to his older brother’s home, reckless musician Grey Blackwood gets roped into working off his debt on the set of his CEO brother’s newest project. Grey spends his days fetching coffee and doing odd jobs around the studio, but he lives for nights when he performs with his band. He knows if he can stay focused, success as a singer is just around the corner. But that’s tough with a distracting pink-haired girl occupying his every waking thought.
Skyler and Grey have every reason to resist each other. But, like a song neither of them can get out of their minds, they have no choice but to go where the music takes them.
What I Liked:
This book was a disappointment. I thought this would be my favorite of the series, because I was so intrigued by Grey since we "met" him earlier in the series. I thought Boomerang was okay, not great. I liked Rebound. This book was supposed to be my favorite, but instead, it is my least favorite of the series.
Grey is roped into working for his older brother Adam when he throws a party while Adam is away, and trashes his brother's house. Somehow, Grey ends up helping with the movie that Adam's company is filming. The male lead isn't available on audition day, so Grey fills in... which is how he and Skyler end up sharing a steamy kiss. Skyler is the newly cast lead of said film, and she can't stop thinking about the live sexual tension between her and Grey. Grey is on-set all time, acting as an assistant for the male lead of the film. With all that is going on in his personal life, does Grey need to be trying to get with the pretty girl who has the interest of the young director and Adam's friend, Brooks? Maybe not, but Grey and Skyler have off-the-charts chemistry, and the ball is in Skyler's court.
What did I actually like about this book? The beginning started really well. Super strong, very engaging, I couldn't flip the pages fast enough. Grey and Skyler meet just before the audition, by chance, when both of them want to get some fresh air. Both of them are interested in each other at this point. Even better is when Grey has to step in for the male lead (Garrett, I believe his name is?), and Grey acts out a scene with each hopeful girl. He is bored and hates doing it, until Skyler's audition. They make it through the entire scene, which involves a rather steamy kiss, steamier than on the script.
Things were going great at this point! I can't remember exactly at where this point was in the book, but I think it was around one-fifth in? So there was still a loooong way to go, but I was really feeling this book!
I absolutely adore Grey. I was on "his side" throughout the entire book, both relating to Skyler, and his mother. He has a lot of issues going, and he is a lot more than a drunk who likes to party. His "mother" is actually Adam's mother. Grey's stepmother. Grey and Madeline have things to work through, but Grey is stubborn and won't talk to her. Grey's band is doing so well, and it is what is driving him. He hates working for Adam, but likes what is going on between Skyler and him (though it honestly felt like nothing was going on - but I'll get to that in a minute). I really, really like Grey. I think he gave Skyler one too many chances, and she doesn't deserve him.
Moving on, proceed with caution: possible spoilers ahead.
What I Did Not Like:
I. Did. Not. Like. Skyler. And I know some people are going to be upset with me when I list my reasons why. The biggest thing I didn't like about her was her wishy-washy, vacillating behavior. There is somewhat of a love triangle in this story, and I find none of it okay. So I guess I'll make sure you all know that I HATE LOVE TRIANGLES and this is ENTIRELY an Alyssa issue. So if you love them, like them, aren't bothered by them, good for you.
Grey and Skyler's "thing" dominate the first third or so of the book. But Skyler keeps pushing Grey away, even though it is very clear that their desire and emotions are mutual (I'll get to the emotions part in a minute, too). Brooks shows a bit of interest in her (remember, he is the director of the film, and Adam's friend), and she is always over him. She hangs out with him, goes to him when she and Grey part ways roughly. She kisses him, goes on dates with him, lets him in. I don't know what the deal with this is, but I am not okay with this. Meanwhile, she and Grey still maintain... something. Their intimacy is SUPER limited (Brooks gets more action than Grey does, after that initial kiss between Grey and Skyler).
Which leads me to my next complaint - Grey and Skyler have no relationship. They sprout feelings fast than you can crack an egg. They kiss once and suddenly he's all caveman-jealous of her and Brooks, and she feels guilty for being with Brooks. Their feelings are so deeply rooted after like, two interactions (Skyler and Grey's). Insta-love much? I can't even say it was insta-lust because it's not like they're only thinking about the kiss, or each other's bodies. It seemed too soon and too rushed for them to "in love" with each other.
And then they play the friend card. Or, Skyler does, so she can engage in a ridiculous love triangle with Brooks. I think one of her friends even points out the love triangle, using those exact two words. Not even a little okay, when you think you have strong feelings for someone else (again, HOW does she have those strong feelings already?!).
I suppose it's entirely possibly to have that strong of feelings towards someone else, mutually (Grey and Skyler). Maybe. But I wanted to FEEL this, EXPERIENCE this, SEE this. Don't just tell me in words that he's jealous of Brooks or she feels guilty about being with Brooks (but still does it anyway, wtf, wishy-washy much?).
Skyler and Grey could have used many more interactions. So many. They kiss once, and that's basically the book, in terms of intimacy. I personally didn't like this, and then there's the love triangle. That just made me lose all interest, as soon as Skyler started dating Brooks (and pretty quickly, too). I'm sure these things happen in real life all the time, but that doesn't mean that I personally want to read about it. You feel me?
So. Little relationship development between Skyler and Grey. Heck, at one point, I wanted Skyler and Brooks to get it on and get married or whatever because THEIR relationship was very well-developed! Also Skyler does not deserve Grey. He waits and waits for her, even does The Grand Gesture that the male protagonist ALWAYS DOES (why in the world can't the female protagonist ever be "wrong", and have to do The Grand Gesture? Seriously!?). Skyler... no. I was never, ever "on her side" in this book. And I know feminists are going to come after me with pepper spray and handbags. But look - I'm as much of a feminist as another feminist. And being a feminist is all about embracing your decisions as a woman. Well, Skyler couldn't freaking MAKE a decision - about who she actually liked, her weight, her mother. And in any case, my decisions wouldn't be hers, but we're both still two women, two feminists, living our lives (well, I am. Skyler is fictional). I don't like her, what she did, and I don't have to.
Not to mention that while their chemistry was popping in the beginning of the book... I was pretty turned off by the end of the book, so the one sex scene fell flat. And there are like, two make-out scenes in this book, INCLUDING the first one. Romance? Naaah. The romance was so poorly written and basically not even there. It was choppy and split up and not romantic at all, especially since the "romantic pair" were barely around each other for like, 60% of the book (the second 60%, not the first).
Again, I realize that these things happen in real life, and that some people have no issues with these things. But they are things that this girl does not prefer to read, and this is MY review of what I did and didn't like.
Would I Recommend It:
I absolutely canNOT recommend this book on a good conscience. I thought Boomerang was meh, okay, and Rebound was decent, slightly better. But this one tanked, for me. What should have been my favorite is actually one of the worst books I've read. The more I think about it, the more I disliked this book. I started with 2.5 stars, and now I'm down to 1 star. I'm frustrated and disappointed and I can't believe I put myself through this book!
Rating:
1.5 stars -> rounded down to 1 star. This series, overall, is so meh. I had and have zero faith in New Adult contemporary, and this book/series did not help much, unfortunately. But I love Veronica Rossi, so I had to give her a shot.
August 24, 2015
This series has consistently been amazing for me. With every book, I fell in love with this writing duo's stories and characters. Bounce had a different tone from the two previous books and I was initially worried that it wouldn't live up to all the expectations I had built up, but in the end, Noelle August managed to win me over with their lovely writing style.
The biggest difference in Bounce was the darker tone the book took. Both Boomerang and Rebound had that lighter and fluffier feel to it that Bounce did not possess. To be honest, I was a little bit disappointed at first because the popular NA trope of two characters with angsty pasts is very much prevalent in the book. It's a trope that I'm honestly tired of, but here's the great thing, these two authors were able to actually make me like the way the trope was written. Both Skylar and Grey were at that point in their lives where everything was falling apart and they didn't know what they wanted out of life. I connected easily with the characters because earlier this year, I went through exactly that phase. It wasn't easy and I thought the authors captured that despair and confusion very well.
When we meet Grey, he is just waking up at his brother's destroyed house after a raging party. Grey's punishment? Work for his brother, Adam's, movie production company to make up for the damage he had caused. Grey was no Ethan or Adam for me. He wasn't the confident man that his brother was, but he was goal-oriented and pushed through to achieve his dream. The focus of the book was a lot on his shaky relationship with the woman who raised him, his step-mother. He was also struggling to fit into the Blackwood mold with both his father and his brother being very successful figures in their careers.Grey's passion was music and I loved watching his devotion to music really come to the surface and was rooting for him and his career. Sky too was going through her own set of family issues. Her dad was a traveling musician who often left her mother all by herself for days without any source of income and this was a huge burden on Sky who was herself still discovering what she wanted to do with her life. I felt for her and watching her put so much pressure on herself was really heartbreaking.
Thankfully, Skylar had some amazing female friends that were always there for her. The strong female friendships that had no tinge of jealousy was one of my favorite things about Bounce. I loved how these girls were supportive of each other. I was especially proud of Sky's actress friend, Beth, who loses a movie part to Sky. She was obviously upset about not getting the part, but she never once put down her friend or let jealousy get in the way of their friendship. I need more depictions of such great friendships in my books! It's honestly so heartwarming to read about.
The romance in Bounce between Skylar and Grey was slow and beautifully paced. Those two started off with a steaming kiss at an audition and while the pages were brimming with their intense chemistry, they became good friends before they became a couple. I loved watching the progression of their relationship. Bounce did have a bit of a triangle and I could have done without it, but it's not one that was frustrating or rage-inducing. You knew exactly how things would end relationship-wise and the other guy was more of a small hurdle to their relationship. I did wish that Grey didn't doubt that he was good enough for Sky early on, but given his circumstances, it was easy to see where his insecurities were stemming from. Once he and Skylar were together though, despite it taking a long time, it was romantic and magical and gave me the feels!
I also liked seeing the "behind the scenes" of a movie production. Noelle August showcased both the glamorous and ugly side that can come with a career in movies. We also got glimpses of the previous couples in the series and it made me so happy to see them together and thriving at their relationships and careers.
While Bounce wasn't as light-hearted as Boomerang and Rebound were, it was still a book that I loved because the authors did a fantastic job with the characterization, the romance and the female friendships. I will miss these characters dearly, but Noelle August did them all justice. I hope that we get to read more of this duo's collaborations in the future.
September 30, 2015
Noelle August's Boomerang trilogy has been a delight to read. I hope Lorin Oberweger and Veronica Rossi have something else up their sleeves because I will read it. Sadly, Bounce didn't have the same special pull as the two previous books in the series, and I didn't really like it.
We met Grey, Adam Blackwood's brother, in Rebound. He is kind of in the middle of an identity crisis. After throwing a crazy party while Adam was away, he wakes to pure pandemonium and a very angry brother. The apartment is a destroyed. Adam makes Grey work for him as both punishment and to fulfill payment for the clean-up costs. Meanwhile, Grey is angry because it takes him away from his beloved band, which is on the verge of breaking into the music scene.
As part of his punishment, Grey is roped into helping with auditions for Blackwood production's remake of Jane Austen's Emma. The moment Skyler walks into the audition Grey can't keep his eyes or his lips off of her. Their fake audition kiss turns into a hot and heavy make out session. It's too bad Adam and Brooke already have their leading man chosen because WOWZA the physical chemistry between Skyler and Grey is there!
I liked Sky's character. She's just a girl who came to Los Angeles chasing her dream to become a successful cellist. In the book Skyler's style blends the classical with the modern day pop tunes with crazy and it kind of reminds me of these two dudes. SO AWESOME! But she ends up winning over all of the movie folks at her very first acting audition
This book had a great palette! Two musicians. One in a rock band and one classically trained cellist turned actor, on the verge of being a breakout star. The chemistry between Grey and Sky was there, but after a decent beginning the chemistry and momentum fizzled out. Most of the book was really slow, and I didn't really root for these characters at all. I was bored. I felt really apathetic towards them, to be honest. I wanted more relationship development instead of just pining and longing.
I really didn't care for Grey's character. There was growth in him over the course of the novel, but I found him to be kind of whiney. He didn't fight for Sky and tended to mope around. Instead of taking the initiative and pursuing her, he just assumed she wasn't interested when he sees her with another guy.
The thing that brought Grey and Sky together in the end was contrived. [spoiler]The diet pills Sky didn't realize she was taking throughout the movie shoot catch up to her and she collapses. Grey rushes in, missing his band's showcase he has been preparing for for months, to be with her. [/spoiler]Sweet but prior to this, there was very little interaction between Grey and Sky, save a few late night hangouts and text messages.
I liked that both characters in this book had to overcome family obstacles and issues. The issues they faced were real issues and appreciated that they worked through those together. However, since this is a romance, I can't give it a very favorable rating. It kills me that this book didn't work for me, since I've been such a cheerleader for Boomerang and Rebound.
*I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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October 11, 2019
I don't remember much from the previous two books. I think you can read each book as a standalone.
For the most part, I enjoyed this book. I really enjoyed side characters and hero- Grey is great.
What I didn't like was heroine and her bouncing around from Grey to that other guy. There is somewhat of triangle here happening. Which drove me mad! Her relationship with either of them wasn't developed enough, and when she suddenly changes her mind at the end of book that was very poorly done.
Overall, average New Adult book.
For the most part, I enjoyed this book. I really enjoyed side characters and hero- Grey is great.
What I didn't like was heroine and her bouncing around from Grey to that other guy. There is somewhat of triangle here happening. Which drove me mad! Her relationship with either of them wasn't developed enough, and when she suddenly changes her mind at the end of book that was very poorly done.
Overall, average New Adult book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2015
Bounce is the final book in the New Adult contemporary romance Boomerang trilogy.
The narrators are Grey Blackwood (Adam's brother) and Skyler (Mia's friend).
This book could be read as a standalone. However, characters from the other books are also in this book. And Bounce references things that happened in the first two books.
This book is a New Adult contemporary romance, however it definitely is not as steamy as many NA books. So even though the characters are 19 (Grey) and 22-23 (Skyler) much of it reads like YA. The format was interesting because while there is instant chemistry the romance moves quite slow.
Grey is a musician who is trying to make it big. Skyler plays the cello but has been taking acting lessons. Her and her roomie Beth are auditioning for a big movie (that Adam and his friend are making). Grey ends up having to help at the audition. And it is obvious that Grey and Skyler have a connection.
I really liked how friendship played such a key role in this book. I liked Mia, Beth and Skyler. And I enjoyed Skyler and Grey's friendship a lot.
Another key part of the book is family. Grey comes from a very rich family. But he has an issue with his mom. Skyler also has problems with her parents. I really enjoyed getting to delve deeper and see what the problems were in each family.
And the music and acting! I really enjoyed getting to see both Grey and Skyler play music, write songs ... and I enjoyed getting to see snippets of Skyler acting.
The book is sweet and enjoyable. If you are looking for a book that is all hot and heavy then this is not the book for you. But the story will keep your attention.
It is a cute series that ends a bit abruptly. But it does address the relationship statuses of characters from the other books. It was a good conclusion to an appealing series.
Thanks to edelweiss and William Morrow Paperbacks for allowing me to read this book.
August 26, 2015
I really enjoyed the first two books in the trilogy and couldn’t wait for the final installment. This one can be read as a stand alone, however you will miss the back stories of supporting characters, not to mention two great books. I liked Grey in Rebound, he was the mysterious younger brother but had hints of an interesting back-story waiting to be told. However, I wasn’t prepared for how much I came to adore him, and in the end he became my favorite hero from the series. He and Skyler have a complicated relationship that kept me on the edge of my Kindle until the last chapters.
“If you’re going to run every time you don’t like something, you’re going to spend half your life running.”
From the beginning, Skyler and Grey have a perplexing connection. Despite their mutual love of music, they do have an age difference. Normally, that’s nothing new, but here Skyler is the older and more mature heroine, while Grey is the younger, immature counterpart. I loved seeing a smart and few years older heroine try not fall for an impulsive, sometimes immature hero. While they have a connection, they have a slow building friendship first. It was painful at times, but it’s realistic and so worth the angst. My heart ached wondering if these two would ever be on the same page!
She has to know she’s beautiful. And I have nothing to lose. She’s not mine. She won’t ever be.
I absolutely loved seeing the previous characters from Boomerang and Rebound . The female characters have a fun but supportive relationship throughout the book. This trilogy is a hidden gem in the NA genre. I truly loved each book and hope that we will see more from Noelle August in the future.
** Thank you to HarperCollins Publishers for my advanced copy of this book.**
“If you’re going to run every time you don’t like something, you’re going to spend half your life running.”
From the beginning, Skyler and Grey have a perplexing connection. Despite their mutual love of music, they do have an age difference. Normally, that’s nothing new, but here Skyler is the older and more mature heroine, while Grey is the younger, immature counterpart. I loved seeing a smart and few years older heroine try not fall for an impulsive, sometimes immature hero. While they have a connection, they have a slow building friendship first. It was painful at times, but it’s realistic and so worth the angst. My heart ached wondering if these two would ever be on the same page!
She has to know she’s beautiful. And I have nothing to lose. She’s not mine. She won’t ever be.
I absolutely loved seeing the previous characters from Boomerang and Rebound . The female characters have a fun but supportive relationship throughout the book. This trilogy is a hidden gem in the NA genre. I truly loved each book and hope that we will see more from Noelle August in the future.
** Thank you to HarperCollins Publishers for my advanced copy of this book.**
August 19, 2017
While not quite as good as Boomerang, Bounce is still pretty sweet...
⇝Ratings Breakdown⇜
Plot: 4/5
Main Characters: 5/5
Secondary Characters: 5/5
The Feels: 4/5
Addictiveness: 4/5
Theme or Tone: 4/5
Flow (Writing Style): 5/5
Backdrop (World Building): 5/5
Book Cover: 2/5 It's just not right.
Narration: 4/5
Ending: 3.8/5 Cliffhanger: Nope
Total: 4.2/5 STARS
⇝My Thoughts⇜
I really liked Gray and Skylar, loved that they had a age difference with the girl older than the guy. After all, this is something I can get behind, since I'm six years older than my husband. I will recommend this series as a whole, just on quick wit alone, that is Noelle August, aka writing team Veronica Rossi and Lorin Oberweger. They have a writing style that is fresh and engaging. That's not bogged down with an over abundance of overly descriptive sex scenes. I just wish they had more for me to read.
⇝Will I read more from this Author⇜ Yes, I would. I'm wondering if I would like Veronica Rossi's YA stuff now???
⇝Ratings Breakdown⇜
Plot: 4/5
Main Characters: 5/5
Secondary Characters: 5/5
The Feels: 4/5
Addictiveness: 4/5
Theme or Tone: 4/5
Flow (Writing Style): 5/5
Backdrop (World Building): 5/5
Book Cover: 2/5 It's just not right.
Narration: 4/5
Ending: 3.8/5 Cliffhanger: Nope
Total: 4.2/5 STARS
⇝My Thoughts⇜
I really liked Gray and Skylar, loved that they had a age difference with the girl older than the guy. After all, this is something I can get behind, since I'm six years older than my husband. I will recommend this series as a whole, just on quick wit alone, that is Noelle August, aka writing team Veronica Rossi and Lorin Oberweger. They have a writing style that is fresh and engaging. That's not bogged down with an over abundance of overly descriptive sex scenes. I just wish they had more for me to read.
⇝Will I read more from this Author⇜ Yes, I would. I'm wondering if I would like Veronica Rossi's YA stuff now???
August 3, 2015
I loved the other 2 books in this series, so it was pretty much a sure thing that I would love this one.
I love love loved Sky and Grey. I love they way the act with each other and the unwavering support they provided. Their friendship was fun to read and I definitely wanted more of them together.
This one seemed to have a lot more drama than the other two did. Both of them have some issues to work out and for me, the incessant push and pull was a bit irritating. However, as always, these authors deliver and the HEA was adorable. I can't wait to see what comes next for this writing duo.
**Huge thanks to William Morrow and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
I love love loved Sky and Grey. I love they way the act with each other and the unwavering support they provided. Their friendship was fun to read and I definitely wanted more of them together.
This one seemed to have a lot more drama than the other two did. Both of them have some issues to work out and for me, the incessant push and pull was a bit irritating. However, as always, these authors deliver and the HEA was adorable. I can't wait to see what comes next for this writing duo.
**Huge thanks to William Morrow and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
January 1, 2016
A good conclusion to the series!
January 29, 2016
Bounce is very different from the other books of this series because damn, for the most part of the book I feel like there's a heavy weight that has been deposited (and still slowly building up) on my chest. If you can just read what Grey Blackwood's thoughts are, I'm sure you'll also end up with a heart aching over this kid. His thoughts and fears were so realistic (legit) and I can't help it but to feel more and more for his character as I flip from one page to another.
This book may be darker but just like Boomerang and Rebound, it was a really good New Adult book. Noelle August writes and brings out all the emotions/feels to the table without over complicating the plot. That's one of the things that I love about her. Also, the conflict in the story mostly resides within the characters and it is a thrill to watch how they handle and overcome it.
I fully hope that Noelle August writes more New Adult books. I love what their tandem is offering to the NA genre and community.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Full review will up during the blog tour.
This book may be darker but just like Boomerang and Rebound, it was a really good New Adult book. Noelle August writes and brings out all the emotions/feels to the table without over complicating the plot. That's one of the things that I love about her. Also, the conflict in the story mostly resides within the characters and it is a thrill to watch how they handle and overcome it.
I fully hope that Noelle August writes more New Adult books. I love what their tandem is offering to the NA genre and community.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Full review will up during the blog tour.
August 26, 2015
I enjoyed this book a lot. In fact, it was my favorite of the three books in Noelle August's Boomerang series. Featuring Grey Blackwood and Skyler Canby, the younger brother and best friend, respectively, of Adam and Mia from the prior books, it's a fun, fast read with a love story and nicely developed characters. I liked Grey and Skyler and, by the middle of the book, found that I cared about what happened to them.
Besides being enjoyable and holding your interest, Bounce is well-written. It's nice to find a good beach/airplane book with prose that's a pleasure to read. It had a few good, steamy sex scenes--to be enjoyed or skipped, depending on how you feel about those things. I think it works for most people, as it's a 95% "clean read."
My recommendation: by all means, take this book on vacation with you this summer. It's a perfect beach companion and a lot of fun, too!
Besides being enjoyable and holding your interest, Bounce is well-written. It's nice to find a good beach/airplane book with prose that's a pleasure to read. It had a few good, steamy sex scenes--to be enjoyed or skipped, depending on how you feel about those things. I think it works for most people, as it's a 95% "clean read."
My recommendation: by all means, take this book on vacation with you this summer. It's a perfect beach companion and a lot of fun, too!
April 21, 2017
I finally read a NA book all the way through! This book was super cute. I wish there had been a little more face time between the love interests, and I think Grey could use a little therapy, haha, but I mostly really enjoyed this. I definitely need to check out the others in the series. (I love when series are connected like these but not dependent on each other.)
did-not-finish
November 6, 2015Grey is an asshole I don't want to waste my time on, and Skyler deserves better. However this IS better written than the second book. It still relies on insta-love (or insta-lust) but the pacing and general characterizations are better. Too bad Grey was unbearable to read about.
July 19, 2015
Man, such a great book, so much fun to read, I loved Sky and Grey's story! So great, and a great end to the trilogy, so awesome!
August 26, 2015
This book was jointly reviewed with my co-blogger, Becca!
THE STORY:
Lisa: I first fell in love with Grey, Adam’s younger and much more rebellious brother, in Rebound where we got to know him on a smaller level. I had no idea how much I would love him once I got to hear his story.
Grey is basically a mess. Living with his brother, not speaking to his mother, Grey spends his days partying hard, playing in his band, and living the life… the unconventional rock star life, that is. After throwing a party that causes excessive amounts of damage to his brother’s house, he is forced to work with Adam until he has worked enough to pay the cleaning and repair bills. Little did he know that he would get more out of this job than just money.
Skyler is a cellist with an intense love of music. Since her musician father has left his mother to go on tour, Skyler feels the pressure of not only supporting herself, but also coming up with money to help support her mother and their household while her father’s away. The few gigs she gets playing her cello isn’t enough anymore, and she decides to try for a position as an actress to make some quick, much-needed cash. It blows her mind when she is cast for the leading role, quickly thrown into the celebrity lifestyle, one that she never expected… and doesn’t know quite how to deal with.
Becca: *Swoons* Yup I fell for Gray in Rebound as well. Even in just those brief glimpses I knew that I needed to hear his story. I really enjoyed experiencing the movie world setting through Beth’s eyes. It was so interesting and different. At the same time, we follow Grey on his journey into the music world. I also really enjoyed this aspect of the story and his passion for music really opened him up as a character.
As with the other books in this series, Bounce was humorous and a lot of fun to read, with just the right amount of romance!
THE CHARACTERS:
Becca: This cast of characters just keeps growing throughout the series and I absolutely love them all! Skyler and Grey were no exception! I just loved them both so much! Grey was sexy and intriguing and Skyler was sweet and passionate. They had such amazing chemistry from the very first scene and I loved it!
Grey is “young” as they mention, about ten thousand times in the novel ( and I’m not kidding LOL). He is 19 and living in the shadow of his brother Adam. He discovers his love of music and that he wants to be a musician. He however, really needs to grow up! At times his immaturity really makes an appearance. He definitely has some issues he needs to work out, with his family and with himself.
Skyler is trying to save the world, or more like her family. She has the burden of a failing family farm, an absent musician father and her own well being to take on. She of course puts herself last in every way and is always sacrificing herself to help others. I could see a lot of myself in her and so I really identified with her.
We get to see all of our favorites from the series in this novel, including Mia and Ethan and Adam and Alex. This is one of the reasons that I love companion novels, because we get to see all our favorites from the past and know what is going on in their lives. Also as secondary characters we meet Grey’s band mates, including Titus who was so fun! And Skyler and Mia’s roommate Beth, who was so sweet and I loved their friendship so much! I think that my favorite was Garrett though, Grey became his assistant on the film set and he was hilarious, outgoing and a breath of fresh air in this novel!
Lisa: YES!!! Loved, loved, loved Garrett! He was so entertaining.
Can we just talk about Grey and his age for a second. I mean, seriously… I get that he’s only 19… but SO WHAT?! It was seriously mentioned throughout the first half of the book in basically every chapter, more than once. I actually had to rant to Becca at one point as it was really starting to annoy me. I was happy to see that once the point was made (and, I mean, it was HAMMERED into our brains!) then the second half of the story didn’t mention it quite so much. I just didn’t understand why it was such a huge issue. Nineteen is legal where I come from. And Sklyer was early 20’s, making their age difference only a few years. So I didn’t understand why so much emphasis was put on Grey’s age.
I adored these characters as a whole! This story was very much about self-growth and friendship. I loved that the characters learned so much throughout the book and grew as individuals. No, these characters weren’t perfect. They had their issues, their flaws, and they all made bad decisions at different times. But they grew from these mistakes and learned a lesson or two in the process. Such a strong emphasis was put on friendship throughout this story (the entire series, really.) and I personally really love that. Seeing the bond between Skyler and her BFFs as well as Grey with his band members was a lot of fun. Seeing friends stick by each other during the tougher times is always a plus!
OVERALL:
Lisa: Another fun addition to this series. I’m so sad it’s over though. I would have loved to have seen a book about Beth and… nope, no spoilers here!! I thought this book was very different from the others in this series, but I still really enjoyed it. Sometimes it’s okay to be a little different, even if you’re part of the same series. Although this series is considered New Adult because of the age of the characters, it’s really a rather clean read. There were a few sexy scenes, but very minimal. This has been one of my favorite series over the past year or so, and I’m so sad to see it come to an end. A great conclusion to a very fun companion series and I continue to highly recommend.
Becca: You are so right Lisa I would have loved a Beth book or even a Brooks book! I think there were more storied to tell in this series and I am so sad to see it come to an end! I have truly enjoyed each book and have truly become a Noelle August fan! Her writing is so fun and full of humor! I love the friendships that were developed throughout the series and of course the OTP’s! I will definitely be on the look out for more by Noelle August in the future!!
(Thanks to William Morrow Paperbacks for the review copy!)
Find this review and others like it at Lost in Literature!
THE STORY:
Lisa: I first fell in love with Grey, Adam’s younger and much more rebellious brother, in Rebound where we got to know him on a smaller level. I had no idea how much I would love him once I got to hear his story.
Grey is basically a mess. Living with his brother, not speaking to his mother, Grey spends his days partying hard, playing in his band, and living the life… the unconventional rock star life, that is. After throwing a party that causes excessive amounts of damage to his brother’s house, he is forced to work with Adam until he has worked enough to pay the cleaning and repair bills. Little did he know that he would get more out of this job than just money.
Skyler is a cellist with an intense love of music. Since her musician father has left his mother to go on tour, Skyler feels the pressure of not only supporting herself, but also coming up with money to help support her mother and their household while her father’s away. The few gigs she gets playing her cello isn’t enough anymore, and she decides to try for a position as an actress to make some quick, much-needed cash. It blows her mind when she is cast for the leading role, quickly thrown into the celebrity lifestyle, one that she never expected… and doesn’t know quite how to deal with.
Becca: *Swoons* Yup I fell for Gray in Rebound as well. Even in just those brief glimpses I knew that I needed to hear his story. I really enjoyed experiencing the movie world setting through Beth’s eyes. It was so interesting and different. At the same time, we follow Grey on his journey into the music world. I also really enjoyed this aspect of the story and his passion for music really opened him up as a character.
As with the other books in this series, Bounce was humorous and a lot of fun to read, with just the right amount of romance!
THE CHARACTERS:
Becca: This cast of characters just keeps growing throughout the series and I absolutely love them all! Skyler and Grey were no exception! I just loved them both so much! Grey was sexy and intriguing and Skyler was sweet and passionate. They had such amazing chemistry from the very first scene and I loved it!
Grey is “young” as they mention, about ten thousand times in the novel ( and I’m not kidding LOL). He is 19 and living in the shadow of his brother Adam. He discovers his love of music and that he wants to be a musician. He however, really needs to grow up! At times his immaturity really makes an appearance. He definitely has some issues he needs to work out, with his family and with himself.
Skyler is trying to save the world, or more like her family. She has the burden of a failing family farm, an absent musician father and her own well being to take on. She of course puts herself last in every way and is always sacrificing herself to help others. I could see a lot of myself in her and so I really identified with her.
We get to see all of our favorites from the series in this novel, including Mia and Ethan and Adam and Alex. This is one of the reasons that I love companion novels, because we get to see all our favorites from the past and know what is going on in their lives. Also as secondary characters we meet Grey’s band mates, including Titus who was so fun! And Skyler and Mia’s roommate Beth, who was so sweet and I loved their friendship so much! I think that my favorite was Garrett though, Grey became his assistant on the film set and he was hilarious, outgoing and a breath of fresh air in this novel!
Lisa: YES!!! Loved, loved, loved Garrett! He was so entertaining.
Can we just talk about Grey and his age for a second. I mean, seriously… I get that he’s only 19… but SO WHAT?! It was seriously mentioned throughout the first half of the book in basically every chapter, more than once. I actually had to rant to Becca at one point as it was really starting to annoy me. I was happy to see that once the point was made (and, I mean, it was HAMMERED into our brains!) then the second half of the story didn’t mention it quite so much. I just didn’t understand why it was such a huge issue. Nineteen is legal where I come from. And Sklyer was early 20’s, making their age difference only a few years. So I didn’t understand why so much emphasis was put on Grey’s age.
I adored these characters as a whole! This story was very much about self-growth and friendship. I loved that the characters learned so much throughout the book and grew as individuals. No, these characters weren’t perfect. They had their issues, their flaws, and they all made bad decisions at different times. But they grew from these mistakes and learned a lesson or two in the process. Such a strong emphasis was put on friendship throughout this story (the entire series, really.) and I personally really love that. Seeing the bond between Skyler and her BFFs as well as Grey with his band members was a lot of fun. Seeing friends stick by each other during the tougher times is always a plus!
OVERALL:
Lisa: Another fun addition to this series. I’m so sad it’s over though. I would have loved to have seen a book about Beth and… nope, no spoilers here!! I thought this book was very different from the others in this series, but I still really enjoyed it. Sometimes it’s okay to be a little different, even if you’re part of the same series. Although this series is considered New Adult because of the age of the characters, it’s really a rather clean read. There were a few sexy scenes, but very minimal. This has been one of my favorite series over the past year or so, and I’m so sad to see it come to an end. A great conclusion to a very fun companion series and I continue to highly recommend.
Becca: You are so right Lisa I would have loved a Beth book or even a Brooks book! I think there were more storied to tell in this series and I am so sad to see it come to an end! I have truly enjoyed each book and have truly become a Noelle August fan! Her writing is so fun and full of humor! I love the friendships that were developed throughout the series and of course the OTP’s! I will definitely be on the look out for more by Noelle August in the future!!
(Thanks to William Morrow Paperbacks for the review copy!)
Find this review and others like it at Lost in Literature!
July 17, 2015
The full review can be found at The Book Bratz
Confession: This is my first Noelle August book, but I can tell you what. I will be looking forward to her writing in the future. Never mind the fact I can't wait to get my hands on the other books in this series now. Bounce was both refreshing and entertaining story of a girl who never planned to be a star and a troubled boy who couldn't help but fall for her.
Bounce is told in dual POV, switching between Skyler and Grey. I'm not going to bother sitting here and describing what happens throughout the novel. Honestly there is so much that goes on that it will take me all night to type anyway. Shortened version: Girl meets boy, boy is filling in for a movie star at a reading, girl sucks face with boy, a bunch of other things happen, happy ending. Just with a lot of drama in between. I enjoyed most of the characters, besides Sky and Grey I really loved Garrett. He reminded me of an over enthused over caffeinated puppy at moments.
FINALLY! A leading female who doesn't blush every time she is around a guy. Their is constant flirting between Sky and Grey, and of course she blushes. She wouldn't be human if she didn't. But she could say "penis" in front of him and not turn as red as a tomato. Sky wasn't unsure of herself in most situations, and that is what I loved most about her. She didn't question or over analyze the things she would say to Grey. Grey on the other hand was the opposite. He second guessed everything he said and his body temperature would spike when she was around. Both characters are dealing with a lot when they meet at Sky's audition. They never expect to see each other again, then Sky scores the leading role, playing the love interest to Garrett who's current assistant is Grey. So naturally, never seeing each other ever again didn't work out. I loved how they balanced each other out at times. Grey could calm Sky down and vise versa. They are a perfect match and I wanted to punch Grey every time he said he couldn't have her. (I wouldn't though. He has such a pretty face.)
Most New Adult sex scenes are heavy breathing, touching, and asking if they sure they don't want to stop, ect. Grey and Sky were able to laugh and joke around, be their selves in that moment. Plus, it wasn't as raunchy as other New Adult books I have read. It was a bit refreshing actually. I would basically rate this book for 15+ based on the sexual content, it wasn't too much like other New Adult books.
My biggest issue with this book is how Sky's view changed about her body. She said in beginning of Bounce that she knew the bottom half of her was fuller and she understood and accepted that. But after she lands the role of Emma, her weight starts to bother her. The girls in wardrobe handled the situation pretty shitty in my opinion. They could lie through their teeth that it was fine, but they looked at each other and made a face. Did they not expect her to see that?Then, one goes and offers Sky a weight loss/water pill thing like she is some sort of drug dealer. Maybe that is how things work on a movie set? But it annoyed they hell out of me. They basically made Sky feel ashamed that she wore a size ten in jeans. No body else cared. Grey thought that she was gorgeous. Brook still wanted to go out with her. Wardrobe could have ordered her clothes a size up. But I see how her weight was able to push the story along, and help with how everything wrapped up.
Besides the sadness I feel because I finished such an AMAZING book and wish I could live in Grey's and Sky's world longer I can easily rate this one five stars. It had everything I look for in contemporary books plus more. My blogger friends better watch out! I am going to be pushing this one on them!
Confession: This is my first Noelle August book, but I can tell you what. I will be looking forward to her writing in the future. Never mind the fact I can't wait to get my hands on the other books in this series now. Bounce was both refreshing and entertaining story of a girl who never planned to be a star and a troubled boy who couldn't help but fall for her.
Bounce is told in dual POV, switching between Skyler and Grey. I'm not going to bother sitting here and describing what happens throughout the novel. Honestly there is so much that goes on that it will take me all night to type anyway. Shortened version: Girl meets boy, boy is filling in for a movie star at a reading, girl sucks face with boy, a bunch of other things happen, happy ending. Just with a lot of drama in between. I enjoyed most of the characters, besides Sky and Grey I really loved Garrett. He reminded me of an over enthused over caffeinated puppy at moments.
FINALLY! A leading female who doesn't blush every time she is around a guy. Their is constant flirting between Sky and Grey, and of course she blushes. She wouldn't be human if she didn't. But she could say "penis" in front of him and not turn as red as a tomato. Sky wasn't unsure of herself in most situations, and that is what I loved most about her. She didn't question or over analyze the things she would say to Grey. Grey on the other hand was the opposite. He second guessed everything he said and his body temperature would spike when she was around. Both characters are dealing with a lot when they meet at Sky's audition. They never expect to see each other again, then Sky scores the leading role, playing the love interest to Garrett who's current assistant is Grey. So naturally, never seeing each other ever again didn't work out. I loved how they balanced each other out at times. Grey could calm Sky down and vise versa. They are a perfect match and I wanted to punch Grey every time he said he couldn't have her. (I wouldn't though. He has such a pretty face.)
Most New Adult sex scenes are heavy breathing, touching, and asking if they sure they don't want to stop, ect. Grey and Sky were able to laugh and joke around, be their selves in that moment. Plus, it wasn't as raunchy as other New Adult books I have read. It was a bit refreshing actually. I would basically rate this book for 15+ based on the sexual content, it wasn't too much like other New Adult books.
My biggest issue with this book is how Sky's view changed about her body. She said in beginning of Bounce that she knew the bottom half of her was fuller and she understood and accepted that. But after she lands the role of Emma, her weight starts to bother her. The girls in wardrobe handled the situation pretty shitty in my opinion. They could lie through their teeth that it was fine, but they looked at each other and made a face. Did they not expect her to see that?Then, one goes and offers Sky a weight loss/water pill thing like she is some sort of drug dealer. Maybe that is how things work on a movie set? But it annoyed they hell out of me. They basically made Sky feel ashamed that she wore a size ten in jeans. No body else cared. Grey thought that she was gorgeous. Brook still wanted to go out with her. Wardrobe could have ordered her clothes a size up. But I see how her weight was able to push the story along, and help with how everything wrapped up.
Besides the sadness I feel because I finished such an AMAZING book and wish I could live in Grey's and Sky's world longer I can easily rate this one five stars. It had everything I look for in contemporary books plus more. My blogger friends better watch out! I am going to be pushing this one on them!
August 25, 2015
A perfect ending to this highly addictive series, BOUNCE is flirty and fun, romantic and sexy, sweet, seductive, and tension-filled. Add in an irresistibly tempting boy, a stage kiss that sizzles, a friendship with seriously enticing benefits, and you have an absolutely delicious read that you won’t be able to put down.
Grey Blackwood has been hiding out at his brother Adam’s house, trying to avoid dealing with the repercussions of what went down with his family and trying to figure out what his next steps will be. But when a small get-together with his band becomes an out of control party that trashes Adam’s home, he’ll have to either dip into his trust fund or find another way to pay off the twelve thousand he owes for the damages.
As using his family’s money to pay for his mistake is not something he wants to do, when Adam insists he work for him until his debt is paid, he agrees. Even though being a gofer on the set of Adam’s latest project will not be the quickest or easiest way to make that happen. And it won’t be nearly as interesting or exciting as being the lead singer of a band.
Skyler Canby has been desperate to find a way to stay in Los Angeles and not have to return home to her needy mother and a life without any hope of a future she’d want. So when the opportunity arises to audition as an extra for Bounce, a film based on Jane Austen’s Emma, she jumps at the chance. Even if the odds are slim because she doesn’t have the experience or the typical “look.” Because this is her last chance and she has nothing left to lose.
So when a shot at the lead role becomes a real possibility she gives it everything she has. Including the stage kiss with the too young, too hot brother of the producer. Which might just be real enough to land her a role in the film. And which might just have been real enough to ignite something between them.
Noelle August concluded the series with two of its most interesting and likable characters. The authors gave Grey and Sky issues both could relate to, common interests, struggles, flaws. They allowed them to become friends first and foremost, even though their chemistry was undeniable. They also let the story be about each of them as individuals and not just about them as a couple. And they included just the right amount of romantic tension and swoon-worthy scenes to make this read riveting.
As with its predecessors, BOUNCE is told in alternating POV chapters, allowing readers to get to know and connect with both Grey and Skyler. It introduces a few new and positively adorable characters and it offers cameos of those from the two previous installments. Grey and Sky’s story and love story are well-developed, incredibly appealing, wickedly entertaining. This third and final book in the Boomerang series is not to be missed. It is an utterly bewitching, feel-good read and a wonderful way to say goodbye to the characters.
Original GR comments:
I love, love, LOVED this book about Grey and Sky. Their story had just the right amount of romance but was also about them as individuals, and also about their attempt at friendship. It was a one-sit read, sweet and hot and with a well-developed storyline. I instantly liked them both and became invested in the outcome. I'm kind of thinking that they're both my new favorite characters of the series.
Grey Blackwood has been hiding out at his brother Adam’s house, trying to avoid dealing with the repercussions of what went down with his family and trying to figure out what his next steps will be. But when a small get-together with his band becomes an out of control party that trashes Adam’s home, he’ll have to either dip into his trust fund or find another way to pay off the twelve thousand he owes for the damages.
As using his family’s money to pay for his mistake is not something he wants to do, when Adam insists he work for him until his debt is paid, he agrees. Even though being a gofer on the set of Adam’s latest project will not be the quickest or easiest way to make that happen. And it won’t be nearly as interesting or exciting as being the lead singer of a band.
Skyler Canby has been desperate to find a way to stay in Los Angeles and not have to return home to her needy mother and a life without any hope of a future she’d want. So when the opportunity arises to audition as an extra for Bounce, a film based on Jane Austen’s Emma, she jumps at the chance. Even if the odds are slim because she doesn’t have the experience or the typical “look.” Because this is her last chance and she has nothing left to lose.
So when a shot at the lead role becomes a real possibility she gives it everything she has. Including the stage kiss with the too young, too hot brother of the producer. Which might just be real enough to land her a role in the film. And which might just have been real enough to ignite something between them.
Noelle August concluded the series with two of its most interesting and likable characters. The authors gave Grey and Sky issues both could relate to, common interests, struggles, flaws. They allowed them to become friends first and foremost, even though their chemistry was undeniable. They also let the story be about each of them as individuals and not just about them as a couple. And they included just the right amount of romantic tension and swoon-worthy scenes to make this read riveting.
As with its predecessors, BOUNCE is told in alternating POV chapters, allowing readers to get to know and connect with both Grey and Skyler. It introduces a few new and positively adorable characters and it offers cameos of those from the two previous installments. Grey and Sky’s story and love story are well-developed, incredibly appealing, wickedly entertaining. This third and final book in the Boomerang series is not to be missed. It is an utterly bewitching, feel-good read and a wonderful way to say goodbye to the characters.
Original GR comments:
I love, love, LOVED this book about Grey and Sky. Their story had just the right amount of romance but was also about them as individuals, and also about their attempt at friendship. It was a one-sit read, sweet and hot and with a well-developed storyline. I instantly liked them both and became invested in the outcome. I'm kind of thinking that they're both my new favorite characters of the series.
July 21, 2015
Sweet and fun, with a couple of messages that are completely on-point for a new adult novel looking to go deeper beneath the surface, Bounce is nonetheless kind of missing that spark that electrified Boomerang so much. I liked Sky and Grey both and could relate to noth of them, but for me, the original remains unbeaten. However, I would like to see where Noelle August goes from here. Veronica and Lorin work well together, and I'm excited to see what comes next from their partnership.
December 3, 2015
FIRST THOUGHTS: I really enjoy this entire series! Bounce is probably my favorite of the 3, mostly because I adored Grey and Skyler. Their relationship is so well-written!!
January 2, 2022
I found this book in a dollar store, huh!? How does such a sweet fun romance get sold for a dollar? I'm not complaining though :)
April 18, 2021
3 stars
Ever since Boomerang first came out, I thought I'd found a new NA romance writing duo that would suck me into the genre. Sadly, by Bounce I can officially say that it's not quite the case. I enjoyed Bounce, sure, but it's more or less like every other new adult title out there. Nothing special.
I was super excited about Bounce when it was announced - we'd seen flashes of Grey in Rebound and he was the super fun, wild little brother to Adam. And he just joined a BAND. HELL FREAKING YEAH. I love stories about actors and/or musicians - the behind-the-scenes kind of stuff really makes me happy. And the start of the book, in that sense, was STRONG. Grey is forced to help Adam run auditions for their movie - and that's how he meets Skyler. She auditions, and it goes so well that they carry on with the scene until... the KISS. And obviously, this is a kiss with so much spark behind it that the two are instantly aware of each other.
But after that exciting, bounce-worthy beginning, the story more or less falls to the new adult clichés. Both Grey and Skyler have heavy pasts with certain familial issues that they're avoiding. Grey did *something* to his stepmother which led to him moving in with Adam, and now he's basically running away any time he hears her name. (It ends up being a total non-issue, because the stepmother keeps trying to reconnect with him, and he was in the wrong. Like... seriously, why are you even running when you feel guilty but she's not angry?) Skyler's parents are basically good for nothing: her father is in a band and he frequently ups and leaves her mother to go on tour - no communication, no money to pay bills. Her mother can't provide for herself at all, and she calls Skyler all the time to complain until Skyler pays her bills. Yeah, that's not really an ideal situation, but Skyler did get some respect from me for not completely giving up on them - though she should have reality checked them much sooner than she did.
The two both grow up a bit through the story - certainly also by meeting each other... but it's just so typical. And the problem is that the drama that they're respectively going through weren't things that I could relate to. They were such abstractions and the solutions were so simple that I hardly felt really sucked into the story.
The romance is what kept me going, because I've been desperate to read romance lately. And Grey and Skyler definitely have their fair share of cute moments. They connect as musicians and artists, and they have a tiny bit of banter between them that made me pretty happy. But there's also a love triangle in there that superbly frustrates things - Brooks, the director of the film Skyler's starring in, keeps hitting on her. This leads to jealousy stuff from Grey and confusion from Skyler. Shouldn't she fall for the more mature older guy who has his shit together as opposed to the young guy who accumulated a massive debt by partying and breaking his brother's house down? Um, well NO, because he's your fucking director. Jesus Christ, that this even seemed like a legitimate (and smart) option disgusts me.
But that's neither here nor there, because Grey is the one with a POV, so you know which way the romance is gonna go. Incidentally, if you're reading this particular title for some hot and sexy scenes, you'll probably be disappointed - because there aren't a lot of them. (Read: probably only two.) The romance is just so ~complicated~ that it takes forever for Grey and Skyler to get their shit together. At the end of the day, Grey is super sweet for her, and I'm happy with the ending, but boy did it take a while to get there.
Side note: there are some heavy anorexia triggers in this book and I'm not completely happy with how that was handled either.
Summing Up:
Bounce was good, passable, average, but not great. The beginning was really fun and exciting, and I liked seeing how Skyler and Grey connected behind-the-scenes of acting and performing. But at the end of the day there was too much drawn out familial drama and love triangle drama to really get me excited about this book. It fell to too many new adult pitfalls. It's definitely entertaining enough if you're in the mood for a nice dose of romance, but it's not one to really write home about.
GIF it to me straight!
Recommended To:
NA fans?
Ever since Boomerang first came out, I thought I'd found a new NA romance writing duo that would suck me into the genre. Sadly, by Bounce I can officially say that it's not quite the case. I enjoyed Bounce, sure, but it's more or less like every other new adult title out there. Nothing special.
I was super excited about Bounce when it was announced - we'd seen flashes of Grey in Rebound and he was the super fun, wild little brother to Adam. And he just joined a BAND. HELL FREAKING YEAH. I love stories about actors and/or musicians - the behind-the-scenes kind of stuff really makes me happy. And the start of the book, in that sense, was STRONG. Grey is forced to help Adam run auditions for their movie - and that's how he meets Skyler. She auditions, and it goes so well that they carry on with the scene until... the KISS. And obviously, this is a kiss with so much spark behind it that the two are instantly aware of each other.
But after that exciting, bounce-worthy beginning, the story more or less falls to the new adult clichés. Both Grey and Skyler have heavy pasts with certain familial issues that they're avoiding. Grey did *something* to his stepmother which led to him moving in with Adam, and now he's basically running away any time he hears her name. (It ends up being a total non-issue, because the stepmother keeps trying to reconnect with him, and he was in the wrong. Like... seriously, why are you even running when you feel guilty but she's not angry?) Skyler's parents are basically good for nothing: her father is in a band and he frequently ups and leaves her mother to go on tour - no communication, no money to pay bills. Her mother can't provide for herself at all, and she calls Skyler all the time to complain until Skyler pays her bills. Yeah, that's not really an ideal situation, but Skyler did get some respect from me for not completely giving up on them - though she should have reality checked them much sooner than she did.
The two both grow up a bit through the story - certainly also by meeting each other... but it's just so typical. And the problem is that the drama that they're respectively going through weren't things that I could relate to. They were such abstractions and the solutions were so simple that I hardly felt really sucked into the story.
The romance is what kept me going, because I've been desperate to read romance lately. And Grey and Skyler definitely have their fair share of cute moments. They connect as musicians and artists, and they have a tiny bit of banter between them that made me pretty happy. But there's also a love triangle in there that superbly frustrates things - Brooks, the director of the film Skyler's starring in, keeps hitting on her. This leads to jealousy stuff from Grey and confusion from Skyler. Shouldn't she fall for the more mature older guy who has his shit together as opposed to the young guy who accumulated a massive debt by partying and breaking his brother's house down? Um, well NO, because he's your fucking director. Jesus Christ, that this even seemed like a legitimate (and smart) option disgusts me.
But that's neither here nor there, because Grey is the one with a POV, so you know which way the romance is gonna go. Incidentally, if you're reading this particular title for some hot and sexy scenes, you'll probably be disappointed - because there aren't a lot of them. (Read: probably only two.) The romance is just so ~complicated~ that it takes forever for Grey and Skyler to get their shit together. At the end of the day, Grey is super sweet for her, and I'm happy with the ending, but boy did it take a while to get there.
Side note: there are some heavy anorexia triggers in this book and I'm not completely happy with how that was handled either.
Summing Up:
Bounce was good, passable, average, but not great. The beginning was really fun and exciting, and I liked seeing how Skyler and Grey connected behind-the-scenes of acting and performing. But at the end of the day there was too much drawn out familial drama and love triangle drama to really get me excited about this book. It fell to too many new adult pitfalls. It's definitely entertaining enough if you're in the mood for a nice dose of romance, but it's not one to really write home about.
GIF it to me straight!
Recommended To:
NA fans?
March 15, 2017
Sigh. I was spoiled when Boomerang was funny AND sexy. Bounce had basically neither of those things... plus so much angst. I liked the main characters but holy shit this was the least fun slow-burn romance ever. Way too much drama and changing minds for no reason and ugh. I loved this series and all of the characters as a whole, but neither the second nor third books came anywhere close to Boomerang. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
October 4, 2015
As seen on The Quiet Concert
Let me start by saying that I LOVE this series. I tend to shy away from most New Adult books because many of them read the same to me – two damaged characters saving one another - but when Boomerang was first released it was like a breath of fresh air – light, sexy, HEALTHY, and fun. This series has gotten a little heavier since the first book, first Adam and Allison and now Grey and Sky, definitely have had more issues than Mia and Ethan did, but it still has maintained that sexy, fun vibe that I can’t get enough of. I think the dating site company and now production studio setting really help with that. So much potential in those two backdrops.
When Grey was briefly introduced in Rebound, I was instantly attracted to him. I pictured him as a tall, dark, and handsome bad boy with a mysterious air about him and I needed to know more. When I learned that he would be the focus of Bounce, I was giddy with excitement. He’s definitely a troubled guy – he’s got Mommy issues and is weighed down by the expectations of his family and the achievements of his brother. He has a habit of running from his problems or making them worse and he made a lot of mistakes in this book. But you could tell he was just struggling to find his way and that he really was a GOOD guy with GOOD intentions. He also did some of the SWEETEST things and was SO GOOD to Sky. I think I love him the most of any of the men in this series so far.
The romance was a little frustrating because Sky believed Grey was too young and too unstable to be a suitable match so she resisted her attraction to him and instead wasted time dating Brooks. Meanwhile, Grey avoided Sky because he didn’t want to/know how to be just her friend. So they weren’t together a whole lot but it was obvious every time they were (to everyone but themselves) how right they were together. But I guess there had to be SOME obstacle to create tension and I did appreciate that they formed some sort of friendship before taking things to the next level. And of any relationship so far, I think Grey and Sky were the most relatable. I’ve loved all of the couples in this series but I definitely connected with these two the most. Maybe because they felt the least perfect... Sky with her curvy figure and money-problems and Grey with his uncertain future and habit of pushing people away. They were very real. I also loved that they shared a passion for music and were both really talented. I always love the presence of music in books.
I also appreciated the message about feeling comfortable in your own skin and having healthy habits. Sky definitely felt the pressure of the movie business and the need to lose weight but in the end (after a scare) she realized that nothing was worth her health and happiness and that those around her loved her for her she was.
I could go on and on about the things I loved in this series but I'll wrap up by saying that the characters are just so wonderful. I love that we still have moments with the previous couples and continue to meet new and exciting secondary characters. There are some wonderful friendship and sibling dynamics in this book. We really see a whole slew of different relationships and they all shine. There were so many good moments to appreciate.
I have had so much fun reading each and every book. I will truly miss this series but I am hoping that Veronica Rossi and Lorin Oberweger team up again and give us new couples to swoon over. If you haven’t given this series a shot yet YOU MUST. And I think this is a good gateway-NA book if you tend to avoid the genre like I do.
Let me start by saying that I LOVE this series. I tend to shy away from most New Adult books because many of them read the same to me – two damaged characters saving one another - but when Boomerang was first released it was like a breath of fresh air – light, sexy, HEALTHY, and fun. This series has gotten a little heavier since the first book, first Adam and Allison and now Grey and Sky, definitely have had more issues than Mia and Ethan did, but it still has maintained that sexy, fun vibe that I can’t get enough of. I think the dating site company and now production studio setting really help with that. So much potential in those two backdrops.
When Grey was briefly introduced in Rebound, I was instantly attracted to him. I pictured him as a tall, dark, and handsome bad boy with a mysterious air about him and I needed to know more. When I learned that he would be the focus of Bounce, I was giddy with excitement. He’s definitely a troubled guy – he’s got Mommy issues and is weighed down by the expectations of his family and the achievements of his brother. He has a habit of running from his problems or making them worse and he made a lot of mistakes in this book. But you could tell he was just struggling to find his way and that he really was a GOOD guy with GOOD intentions. He also did some of the SWEETEST things and was SO GOOD to Sky. I think I love him the most of any of the men in this series so far.
The romance was a little frustrating because Sky believed Grey was too young and too unstable to be a suitable match so she resisted her attraction to him and instead wasted time dating Brooks. Meanwhile, Grey avoided Sky because he didn’t want to/know how to be just her friend. So they weren’t together a whole lot but it was obvious every time they were (to everyone but themselves) how right they were together. But I guess there had to be SOME obstacle to create tension and I did appreciate that they formed some sort of friendship before taking things to the next level. And of any relationship so far, I think Grey and Sky were the most relatable. I’ve loved all of the couples in this series but I definitely connected with these two the most. Maybe because they felt the least perfect... Sky with her curvy figure and money-problems and Grey with his uncertain future and habit of pushing people away. They were very real. I also loved that they shared a passion for music and were both really talented. I always love the presence of music in books.
I also appreciated the message about feeling comfortable in your own skin and having healthy habits. Sky definitely felt the pressure of the movie business and the need to lose weight but in the end (after a scare) she realized that nothing was worth her health and happiness and that those around her loved her for her she was.
I could go on and on about the things I loved in this series but I'll wrap up by saying that the characters are just so wonderful. I love that we still have moments with the previous couples and continue to meet new and exciting secondary characters. There are some wonderful friendship and sibling dynamics in this book. We really see a whole slew of different relationships and they all shine. There were so many good moments to appreciate.
I have had so much fun reading each and every book. I will truly miss this series but I am hoping that Veronica Rossi and Lorin Oberweger team up again and give us new couples to swoon over. If you haven’t given this series a shot yet YOU MUST. And I think this is a good gateway-NA book if you tend to avoid the genre like I do.
Read
September 16, 2015BOUNCE sucked me in and tugged at my emotional heartstrings. For anyone looking for a romantic and meaningful NA contemporary series, BOOMERANG definitely fits those qualifications.
When Skyler and Grey are paired together to read a scene for Blackwood Entertainment, sparks fly. The only problem is that Sykler wasn't planning on getting the role she was playing and Grey was only there as an audition partner because he owed Adam, his brother, big time for trashing his condo. Two completely unexpected circumstances brings on an attraction that's hard for either one to resist.
Here's what I loved:
1. The complexity of the characters.
2. Friendship and loyalty. I was really happy to see family loyalty and loyal friends.
3. Characters from the pas.t
4. Grey having to face his demons.
5. Skyler sticking up for herself with her dad and her mom.
6. Grey making Skyler a priority in his life and really thinking about what she means to him.
7. Skyler playing the lead role in a film with very little acting background. I love that dreams can come true.
8. Pineapple on pizza?!?!
9. What pushed Grey over the edge to leave home and to go live with his brother, Adam!
10. This wasn't a novel that was loaded with sex scenes for the purpose of being gratuitous. The relationship seemed natural and real.
11. Grey's persistence of his dream. It made me really happy to see that he kept at it, even when family didn't always seem to approve.
12. Grey's younger than Skyler, but it wasn't a HUGE ISSUE! After high school, it seems to me that younger or older by a few years no longer matters. I liked this aspect of this novel!
Another winner in the series! Definitely recommend.
Thank you so much to the publisher for the review copy!
When Skyler and Grey are paired together to read a scene for Blackwood Entertainment, sparks fly. The only problem is that Sykler wasn't planning on getting the role she was playing and Grey was only there as an audition partner because he owed Adam, his brother, big time for trashing his condo. Two completely unexpected circumstances brings on an attraction that's hard for either one to resist.
Here's what I loved:
1. The complexity of the characters.
2. Friendship and loyalty. I was really happy to see family loyalty and loyal friends.
3. Characters from the pas.t
4. Grey having to face his demons.
5. Skyler sticking up for herself with her dad and her mom.
6. Grey making Skyler a priority in his life and really thinking about what she means to him.
7. Skyler playing the lead role in a film with very little acting background. I love that dreams can come true.
8. Pineapple on pizza?!?!
9. What pushed Grey over the edge to leave home and to go live with his brother, Adam!
10. This wasn't a novel that was loaded with sex scenes for the purpose of being gratuitous. The relationship seemed natural and real.
11. Grey's persistence of his dream. It made me really happy to see that he kept at it, even when family didn't always seem to approve.
12. Grey's younger than Skyler, but it wasn't a HUGE ISSUE! After high school, it seems to me that younger or older by a few years no longer matters. I liked this aspect of this novel!
Another winner in the series! Definitely recommend.
Thank you so much to the publisher for the review copy!
July 18, 2015
4.5 solid stars:)
Happy to say that Noelle August got her (their) groove back with Bounce! So I loved Boomerang, but Rebound was a disappointment, so HOORAY because Bounce totally, totally redeemed this series in my eyes!
The witty banter, humor, and super swoony connection is back in full force in this third and last book of the series. I adored Grey, he's definitely my fave of the three guys in this series (even more than swoony Ethan!) And I really, really liked Skylar too. She's no Mia (though come on, those are big boots to fill) but honestly Grey more than makes up for it in my opinion. I love how the age difference played into it and played out so well. I loved the music and movie business theme. Fun side characters, especially fellow actor Garrett who was a total HOOT, and Grey's band mates. The angst was dialed down just the right amount--there's still good family drama type stuff but nothing that will illicit a ton of eye rolls or severe under the breath grumbling. There is a slight, slight attempt at a possible dual love interest but honestly it was so tepid that I barely count it at all, in other words, no love triangle. There's less sex in this book than the other two, though still a TON O' SWOON, but I loved Grey and this story so much that it didn't even bother me (and that surprises even me, people!) So to any of you who read Boomerang and loved it but felt lukewarm about Rebound I say take a chance on Bounce-- it definitely read like the former and I actually enjoyed it even more:)
Happy to say that Noelle August got her (their) groove back with Bounce! So I loved Boomerang, but Rebound was a disappointment, so HOORAY because Bounce totally, totally redeemed this series in my eyes!
The witty banter, humor, and super swoony connection is back in full force in this third and last book of the series. I adored Grey, he's definitely my fave of the three guys in this series (even more than swoony Ethan!) And I really, really liked Skylar too. She's no Mia (though come on, those are big boots to fill) but honestly Grey more than makes up for it in my opinion. I love how the age difference played into it and played out so well. I loved the music and movie business theme. Fun side characters, especially fellow actor Garrett who was a total HOOT, and Grey's band mates. The angst was dialed down just the right amount--there's still good family drama type stuff but nothing that will illicit a ton of eye rolls or severe under the breath grumbling. There is a slight, slight attempt at a possible dual love interest but honestly it was so tepid that I barely count it at all, in other words, no love triangle. There's less sex in this book than the other two, though still a TON O' SWOON, but I loved Grey and this story so much that it didn't even bother me (and that surprises even me, people!) So to any of you who read Boomerang and loved it but felt lukewarm about Rebound I say take a chance on Bounce-- it definitely read like the former and I actually enjoyed it even more:)
January 1, 2016
Why can't I find this on my lists? I've been wanting to do a review for a while...here we go:
All right.
One, I will miss this series of books/characters. I can't believe there are only three books and done. It's rare to find a light, fluffy read that's pure fun and nothing preachy about life lessons.
Two, Grey and Skyler are adorable! Finally, Grey Blackwood found his way in life. Finally, Skyler Canby, is paying attention to something other than her cellos. Together, the younger Grey and older Skyler are too cute. Between their shared love of music and the love they share, they were fun...not so over-drama, but just fun.
Three, I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! THE ONLY reason I gave it four stars instead of five is because it felt like something was cut from the story. Like, "Uh oh, we're almost at 350 pages and we have 500 pages of material." So something was cut in an effort to save pages. Just a chunk of time...and really, I loved these characters so much, i would have read them at 600 to 700 pages...
This is going on my favorites shelf with lots of love and the proverbial "bent pages, highlighted, loved cover" status.
All right.
One, I will miss this series of books/characters. I can't believe there are only three books and done. It's rare to find a light, fluffy read that's pure fun and nothing preachy about life lessons.
Two, Grey and Skyler are adorable! Finally, Grey Blackwood found his way in life. Finally, Skyler Canby, is paying attention to something other than her cellos. Together, the younger Grey and older Skyler are too cute. Between their shared love of music and the love they share, they were fun...not so over-drama, but just fun.
Three, I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! THE ONLY reason I gave it four stars instead of five is because it felt like something was cut from the story. Like, "Uh oh, we're almost at 350 pages and we have 500 pages of material." So something was cut in an effort to save pages. Just a chunk of time...and really, I loved these characters so much, i would have read them at 600 to 700 pages...
This is going on my favorites shelf with lots of love and the proverbial "bent pages, highlighted, loved cover" status.
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