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Breaking Free
Kelsie Sullivan’s life has changed forever. The once outgoing cheerleader has a secret to hide. The car accident that killed her best friend Jenna? She caused it.
With an absent father and unforgiving stepmother, Kelsie has nowhere to turn. She manages her guilt and grief with razor blades. The fleeting release she experiences becomes an obsession and soon she's unable to hide it any longer. Once her cutting is revealed, Kelsie’s parents enroll her in a Wilderness Therapy program designed to rehabilitate troubled teens, but North Carolina is a world away from California.
Kelsie fights against everything the program has to offer until she befriends JC, a boy with a tortured past of his own. He’s also the only one who is able to ease her pain. The two grow close, but quickly discover that nature—both human and otherwise—can easily rip them apart.
Disclaimer: This book contains adult language, sexual themes, and explicit self-harm behavior. Parental discretion is recommended for those under 15 years of age
With an absent father and unforgiving stepmother, Kelsie has nowhere to turn. She manages her guilt and grief with razor blades. The fleeting release she experiences becomes an obsession and soon she's unable to hide it any longer. Once her cutting is revealed, Kelsie’s parents enroll her in a Wilderness Therapy program designed to rehabilitate troubled teens, but North Carolina is a world away from California.
Kelsie fights against everything the program has to offer until she befriends JC, a boy with a tortured past of his own. He’s also the only one who is able to ease her pain. The two grow close, but quickly discover that nature—both human and otherwise—can easily rip them apart.
Disclaimer: This book contains adult language, sexual themes, and explicit self-harm behavior. Parental discretion is recommended for those under 15 years of age
391 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2014
28 people are currently reading
1220 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Koz
4 books221 followersSM Koz was born in Michigan, but moved to North Carolina for college and never left.
She enjoys traveling, camping, hiking, photography, reading, spending time with foster kids who call her house home, and learning new things. When she’s not creating online training for pharmaceutical companies (her day job) or writing, Koz can be found at the local community college taking courses on various topics ranging from digital art to HTML to desktop publishing. Next in line are auto mechanics and cake decorating.
Being trained as a veterinarian, it’s not surprising that Koz and her husband were recently told they have a mini-zoo with their two dogs, fish, cockatiels, and foster cats. In the past, they have also had parakeets and a snake. Other than the fish, all the animals were acquired through rescue organizations, something Koz wholeheartedly supports.
SM Koz has written six novels. Although her stories differ by genre, ranging from contemporary realism to sci-fi to fanfiction, two things they all have in common are a young or new adult focus and romance. If you'd like to read more by SM Koz, check her out on Amazon.
She enjoys traveling, camping, hiking, photography, reading, spending time with foster kids who call her house home, and learning new things. When she’s not creating online training for pharmaceutical companies (her day job) or writing, Koz can be found at the local community college taking courses on various topics ranging from digital art to HTML to desktop publishing. Next in line are auto mechanics and cake decorating.
Being trained as a veterinarian, it’s not surprising that Koz and her husband were recently told they have a mini-zoo with their two dogs, fish, cockatiels, and foster cats. In the past, they have also had parakeets and a snake. Other than the fish, all the animals were acquired through rescue organizations, something Koz wholeheartedly supports.
SM Koz has written six novels. Although her stories differ by genre, ranging from contemporary realism to sci-fi to fanfiction, two things they all have in common are a young or new adult focus and romance. If you'd like to read more by SM Koz, check her out on Amazon.
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July 6, 2014
“Eventually we’ll forgive ourselves for what we did. And believe in ourselves again. Until then, we just need to be strong.”
Well, this was such a nice surprise! I didn't have high expectations before I dived into this book and let's just say this managed to impressed me.
Brief Summary:
Kelsie was in an car accident with her bestfriend, Jenna. Jenna was killed in the process and Kelsie blames herself for it. One awful thing lead to another and it ended up with Kelsie cutting herself to avoid the shame, guilt and pain that she felt. Her stepmother discovered her actions and she was sent away to be fixed. (Huh.)
So Kelsie went to a Wilderness Therapy camp where the people basically surround themselves with nature and just reflect on life. At first, Kelsie was skeptical. I mean, duh? Does this camping thingy really works? But soon, she met new people and they managed to learn and teach each other a thing or two. And maybe now, she'll learn to forgive anyone who hurt her, and maybe also forgive herself..
Well, I'm not sure about that camping thing. I doubt it'll work for me since I hate hiking. But as for this story, the author did it. Make it work, I mean. I couldn't stop reading.
The characters are described in such a beautiful way. They felt real and true. They're messed-up and I accepted it. The author made me. Being brutally honest about this issues, S.M. Koz made me see these people for who and what they are and not for what they have done. The past can't be changed anymore and the best thing to do is move on. Easier said than done, right? The author told me to embraced it, to not let it go, to see past the imperfections, past the outer layers.
I don't really understand why people cut. I guess as the book says, people cope using different ways. This topic is sensitive and very disturbing and I'm glad this book cleared some questions about self-harm that I have in mind.
Overall, this was such a brilliant debut. I am looking forward to reading more of this author's works.
Final Rating: 3.5/5 stars
**Copy provided by author in exchanged of an honest review.
September 13, 2014
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author S.M. Koz.)
17-year-old Kelsie is off to a wilderness camp because of problems undisclosed, but she’s sure that wilderness camp won’t work, and intends to get sent home as soon as possible.
Why is Kelsie at wilderness camp? What will it take for her to be a happy camper? And can wilderness camp ever put some demons to rest?
This was an interesting story, and it certainly kept me guessing.
Kelsie was a strong character, but I didn’t really like her to begin with. I found her quite selfish and self-absorbed at the beginning; although I did think she was blaming herself for what had happened when it really wasn’t her fault. I liked JC (the love interest) and his attitude towards life a bit more than I liked Kelsie though!
The storyline in this was very mysterious, and I had to keep reading to find out what had gone on! There seemed to be several mysteries all going on, and several unexpected twists evenly spaced throughout the story. It was definitely the mystery that kept me reading, even though I found the pace a little slow.
There was some romance, and I would have liked if it had been a little more developed. I felt like Kelsie and JC found their way to each other, but didn’t really get all that much time together over the duration of the book, it would have been nice if they had gotten a little more time to be happy together without all these twists and turns messing things up!
The ending to this was pretty good, and I liked that the mysteries were resolved, I think I would have enjoyed this more if I had been able to connect to Kelsie a little bit more, and the pace was maybe a little faster.
Overall; an enjoyable story, with plenty of mysteries and twists,
6.75 out of 10.
17-year-old Kelsie is off to a wilderness camp because of problems undisclosed, but she’s sure that wilderness camp won’t work, and intends to get sent home as soon as possible.
Why is Kelsie at wilderness camp? What will it take for her to be a happy camper? And can wilderness camp ever put some demons to rest?
This was an interesting story, and it certainly kept me guessing.
Kelsie was a strong character, but I didn’t really like her to begin with. I found her quite selfish and self-absorbed at the beginning; although I did think she was blaming herself for what had happened when it really wasn’t her fault. I liked JC (the love interest) and his attitude towards life a bit more than I liked Kelsie though!
The storyline in this was very mysterious, and I had to keep reading to find out what had gone on! There seemed to be several mysteries all going on, and several unexpected twists evenly spaced throughout the story. It was definitely the mystery that kept me reading, even though I found the pace a little slow.
There was some romance, and I would have liked if it had been a little more developed. I felt like Kelsie and JC found their way to each other, but didn’t really get all that much time together over the duration of the book, it would have been nice if they had gotten a little more time to be happy together without all these twists and turns messing things up!
The ending to this was pretty good, and I liked that the mysteries were resolved, I think I would have enjoyed this more if I had been able to connect to Kelsie a little bit more, and the pace was maybe a little faster.
Overall; an enjoyable story, with plenty of mysteries and twists,
6.75 out of 10.
May 31, 2014
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
The Plot
Breaking Free starts off with Kelsie in the present time recounting her life for the past few months. A past that included her best friend, a guy she loved and many tragic events that shatter her will to live and be strong. Told in the present and past, Breaking Free tells the story of her journey to finding her strength to live and to accept that which she had no control over. Through it all she finally finds the love she has never had in the most unlikely of people. People who stand by her through it all, even when she is at her cruelest and weakest points.
The Characters
If there is one thing I dislike are weak heroine. Fortunately, this was not the case with Kelsie. Although at first i wanted to strangle her because of her stuck up attitude, as the story progressed we finally got a view of her life. A life where she had no love or family but her best friend that she loved beyond anything in the world. Her pain and her guilt was so heartbreaking and so real that you cant help but feel for this girl that has lost all she held close.
Now JC is something else. From the beginning you cant help but quickly adore him. Against his better judgement and his situation he helps Kelsie find the strength in her. With his stories and his tenderness he gives Kelsie what no one beside her best friend has given her, love. But like the rest of the Wilderness pack he holds his own secrets and his own demons haunt him. While he helps Kelsie he doesn't confront his own until confronting them becomes the only thing that makes him whole.
The Romance
JC is everything Kelsie despises at first. But from the moment he helps her there is not stopping the growing friendship between the two. As Kelsie work through her demons JC becomes her light in the darkness and that type of connection blossoms to so much more. A love that's so pure and healing.
The Wrap up
What i first was hesitant about this story was the jump from present to past. I was not happy about it starting the book but after those two first chapters I couldn't have read this book any other way. It was not confusing and it made the story what it was. I cannot say much more but when it releases you need to pick this up and read it. Love it.
HAPPY READING!
Favorite Quotes
"'Aren't you supposed to be learning some life lesson about self-reliance?'
'I think I've learned it. When someone is better at something than you, accept their offer to help.'"
"He wanted to see you. The whole you. The good, the bad, and the ugly, and let you know that he accepted you. Every last bit of you."
"Things have taken a turn for the worse. No time to write, other than: I Love you, Mal. No matter where we are of what you do. Never forget that.
The Plot
Breaking Free starts off with Kelsie in the present time recounting her life for the past few months. A past that included her best friend, a guy she loved and many tragic events that shatter her will to live and be strong. Told in the present and past, Breaking Free tells the story of her journey to finding her strength to live and to accept that which she had no control over. Through it all she finally finds the love she has never had in the most unlikely of people. People who stand by her through it all, even when she is at her cruelest and weakest points.
The Characters
If there is one thing I dislike are weak heroine. Fortunately, this was not the case with Kelsie. Although at first i wanted to strangle her because of her stuck up attitude, as the story progressed we finally got a view of her life. A life where she had no love or family but her best friend that she loved beyond anything in the world. Her pain and her guilt was so heartbreaking and so real that you cant help but feel for this girl that has lost all she held close.
Now JC is something else. From the beginning you cant help but quickly adore him. Against his better judgement and his situation he helps Kelsie find the strength in her. With his stories and his tenderness he gives Kelsie what no one beside her best friend has given her, love. But like the rest of the Wilderness pack he holds his own secrets and his own demons haunt him. While he helps Kelsie he doesn't confront his own until confronting them becomes the only thing that makes him whole.
The Romance
JC is everything Kelsie despises at first. But from the moment he helps her there is not stopping the growing friendship between the two. As Kelsie work through her demons JC becomes her light in the darkness and that type of connection blossoms to so much more. A love that's so pure and healing.
The Wrap up
What i first was hesitant about this story was the jump from present to past. I was not happy about it starting the book but after those two first chapters I couldn't have read this book any other way. It was not confusing and it made the story what it was. I cannot say much more but when it releases you need to pick this up and read it. Love it.
HAPPY READING!
Favorite Quotes
"'Aren't you supposed to be learning some life lesson about self-reliance?'
'I think I've learned it. When someone is better at something than you, accept their offer to help.'"
"He wanted to see you. The whole you. The good, the bad, and the ugly, and let you know that he accepted you. Every last bit of you."
"Things have taken a turn for the worse. No time to write, other than: I Love you, Mal. No matter where we are of what you do. Never forget that.
July 27, 2014
Love Blooms in Wilderness Program
This New Adult romance will be released 8-1-14, and the psychological aspects of the story enticed me to read an advanced copy.
Kelsie is a 17-year-old cheerleader who’s a hot mess. Her best friend died in a car accident, and Kelsie unfairly blames herself. To numb her emotional pain, she starts self-injuring. While cutting oneself is horrifying, I didn’t fully appreciate the horror until I was right there with Kelsie, feeling her pain and her disgust from taking it out on her body.
To try to curb her harmful behavior, Kelsie’s father sends her to a wilderness therapy program. She is ill-prepared and ticked off, with her huge suitcase and even bigger attitude. But the counselor Chris knows just how to handle her, and Kelsie settles down enough to get through the first day, eventually growing closer to the other teens in the program.
JC is the young man who captures her attention the most. He’s athletic, light-hearted, and also blames himself for a loved one dying.
Keslie tells her story to the woman hired to keep her safe—Marta—after she finishes the program. Therefore, the novel consists of flashbacks, which might not have been the best choice for the pacing of the plot. I thought the story took a while to get going. Also, the nicknames Kelsie bestows on each program participant seemed to interfere with clarity and my connection to the characters.
But once the plot kicks into gear, I was riveted. Another boy in the program has it out for JC, and a brewing storm threatens the safety of the group. That’s when Kelsie is forced to grow up fast, discovering that people may not be what they seem.
I dislike when parents are portrayed as incompetent twits in YA and NA stories. Though Kelsie's stepmother is a shrew, I'm glad her father works hard at redeeming himself.
Kelsie’s interactions with JC provide much-needed lightness given the darkness they’ve experienced. The characters seem to be their age, which I appreciate.
I grab a handful of shirts and organize them by type, short-sleeved or long-sleeved, and color. After a few minutes, JC stands behind me and places his hand around my waist. “You really are OCD.”
“Is that a problem for you?”
“Yes, that is the final straw. I can handle everything else, but putting my shirts in rainbow order is too much.”
I loved the ending, which left me with a relieved, buoyant feeling. This is a wonderful debut novel!
This New Adult romance will be released 8-1-14, and the psychological aspects of the story enticed me to read an advanced copy.
Kelsie is a 17-year-old cheerleader who’s a hot mess. Her best friend died in a car accident, and Kelsie unfairly blames herself. To numb her emotional pain, she starts self-injuring. While cutting oneself is horrifying, I didn’t fully appreciate the horror until I was right there with Kelsie, feeling her pain and her disgust from taking it out on her body.
To try to curb her harmful behavior, Kelsie’s father sends her to a wilderness therapy program. She is ill-prepared and ticked off, with her huge suitcase and even bigger attitude. But the counselor Chris knows just how to handle her, and Kelsie settles down enough to get through the first day, eventually growing closer to the other teens in the program.
JC is the young man who captures her attention the most. He’s athletic, light-hearted, and also blames himself for a loved one dying.
Keslie tells her story to the woman hired to keep her safe—Marta—after she finishes the program. Therefore, the novel consists of flashbacks, which might not have been the best choice for the pacing of the plot. I thought the story took a while to get going. Also, the nicknames Kelsie bestows on each program participant seemed to interfere with clarity and my connection to the characters.
But once the plot kicks into gear, I was riveted. Another boy in the program has it out for JC, and a brewing storm threatens the safety of the group. That’s when Kelsie is forced to grow up fast, discovering that people may not be what they seem.
I dislike when parents are portrayed as incompetent twits in YA and NA stories. Though Kelsie's stepmother is a shrew, I'm glad her father works hard at redeeming himself.
Kelsie’s interactions with JC provide much-needed lightness given the darkness they’ve experienced. The characters seem to be their age, which I appreciate.
I grab a handful of shirts and organize them by type, short-sleeved or long-sleeved, and color. After a few minutes, JC stands behind me and places his hand around my waist. “You really are OCD.”
“Is that a problem for you?”
“Yes, that is the final straw. I can handle everything else, but putting my shirts in rainbow order is too much.”
I loved the ending, which left me with a relieved, buoyant feeling. This is a wonderful debut novel!
July 27, 2014
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review
“Breaking Free” is a gripping, honest story about grief and the desperate method used to cope with the loss.
I really loved the author’s writing style and she clearly did her research in the subject of cutting. The story revisits past events, but returns to the present seamlessly. I also appreciated the cadence of the story’s progression. It ebbed and flowed beautifully with twists and turns to keep you riveted.
The main character is Kelsie, who before is a girl living a rather charmed life without many cares, but after suffering a tragedy, becomes a damaged young woman, wrestling with her personal demons. Her escape from the pain is to cut herself, which allows her to focus on physical pain, rather than the inner torment of guilt she carries with her. When Kelsie’s secret is discovered, she’s promptly sent to a Wilderness Therapy program where she had to learn new skills for coping with her grief. She meets people her age that grapple with their own dragons to slay, often helping and sometimes hampering Kelsie’s recovery. They each had their own cross to bear, and I wanted to know more about them and their battles.
The struggle Kelsie endures to deal with her grief and to stop her cutting is slow and filled with challenges for her, both from her internal battle, as well as outside influences, but it’s a journey worth taking with her.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
“Breaking Free” is a gripping, honest story about grief and the desperate method used to cope with the loss.
I really loved the author’s writing style and she clearly did her research in the subject of cutting. The story revisits past events, but returns to the present seamlessly. I also appreciated the cadence of the story’s progression. It ebbed and flowed beautifully with twists and turns to keep you riveted.
The main character is Kelsie, who before is a girl living a rather charmed life without many cares, but after suffering a tragedy, becomes a damaged young woman, wrestling with her personal demons. Her escape from the pain is to cut herself, which allows her to focus on physical pain, rather than the inner torment of guilt she carries with her. When Kelsie’s secret is discovered, she’s promptly sent to a Wilderness Therapy program where she had to learn new skills for coping with her grief. She meets people her age that grapple with their own dragons to slay, often helping and sometimes hampering Kelsie’s recovery. They each had their own cross to bear, and I wanted to know more about them and their battles.
The struggle Kelsie endures to deal with her grief and to stop her cutting is slow and filled with challenges for her, both from her internal battle, as well as outside influences, but it’s a journey worth taking with her.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
February 22, 2015
Wow. Breaking Free left me speechless. I've never read a book that was more real than fiction. Usually words pour right out when I'm writing reviews but this one really stumped me. It's amazing that I just don't know what to say.
The main topic in this book is cutting, which, while it is a harsh topic, S.M. Koz really wrote about perfectly. Depression and actions such as cutting is really a big issue in the teenage world. As someone who has dealt with these issues myself, I really related to Kelsie, aka Mal.
This story takes you on an emotional ride with a few twists that you didn't see coming. I'm pretty sure my mouth flung open at a few of those twists. I'm glad this powerful story got the happy ending that everyone deserved. I look forward to reading more books from S.M. Koz. ~ Keisha, 5 stars
The main topic in this book is cutting, which, while it is a harsh topic, S.M. Koz really wrote about perfectly. Depression and actions such as cutting is really a big issue in the teenage world. As someone who has dealt with these issues myself, I really related to Kelsie, aka Mal.
This story takes you on an emotional ride with a few twists that you didn't see coming. I'm pretty sure my mouth flung open at a few of those twists. I'm glad this powerful story got the happy ending that everyone deserved. I look forward to reading more books from S.M. Koz. ~ Keisha, 5 stars
August 1, 2014
Reading the blurb for Breaking Free I was very intrigued. I love a good coming of age story and something about it just called to me. A book about two tortured souls… sounds right up my alley! I love it when a book explores the thoughts of overcoming great hardships and seeing the growth in the characters as they find themselves. SM Koz takes us on a journey of Kelsie Sullivan whose life has been turned upside down and even though the journey is not an easy one, she discovers more than just to love herself but love is more than just skin deep. There were plot twists that I honestly never saw coming and made me fall in love with the story even more. Love knows no color and SM Koz shows us that in Breaking Free.
I loved how the story unfolds. When Kelsie receives a journal from an out of state address for her campmate JC, she sits down and tells her the story past of events that leads up to her summer at Wilderness Camp and what happens while she is there. Within the story she goes back and forth between past and present events and it truly feels like you are sitting around the kitchen table listening to Kelsie and her story. She is sent to Wilderness Camp as her depression and cutting starts to spiral out of control after the death of her best friend. Wilderness Camp is for troubled teens and an alternative therapy to dealing with issues like drug abuse, bulimia, and other behavior issues. It’s a rigorous 30 day camping excursion in the woods involving hiking, team building, and self-exploration through daily journal entries. Kelsie hates being there. She is forced to be there or attend military school.
“After four hours of my own thoughts, I needed to cut. It was overwhelming. My stomach hurt, my chest hurt. It was as if a sumo wrestler was sitting on top of me. The harder I tried to breathe the more it hurt.”
What she doesn’t expect to get is a friendship with JC. A mysterious boy from South Carolina that intrigues Kelsie. On the outside he appears to be “normal”. There was a reason he was sent to Wilderness Camp and but she fails to pry out of him why. As they spend more time together the more their friendship blossoms. As she reads the journal to her Nanny, Kelsie slowly but surely is able to get inside of JC’s head and learn so much about him.
So much happens during their time at Wilderness Camp and the events leading up to their early departure. JC is convinced one of the fellow campers is set there to attack him. After several accidents things start to go from bad to worse. On a night of a rainstorm, another accident causes Kelsie and another camper to hike back and get help. The events leading to this had me on edge and I could not put down my kindle!
What happens after leaves Kelsie feeling like she has the kiss of death. But when her Nanny takes her on a trip to visit her daughter in the hospital, more twist are revealed and has Kelsie questioning everything she thought she knew. Kelsie’s journey out of depression and cutting is not an easy road. Will she be able to break free from that that hold her down and to discover that you don’t need to be related to have a family. That love will find a way if you open your heart to it.
“It don’t take blood to make a family. Just love.””
I loved how the story unfolds. When Kelsie receives a journal from an out of state address for her campmate JC, she sits down and tells her the story past of events that leads up to her summer at Wilderness Camp and what happens while she is there. Within the story she goes back and forth between past and present events and it truly feels like you are sitting around the kitchen table listening to Kelsie and her story. She is sent to Wilderness Camp as her depression and cutting starts to spiral out of control after the death of her best friend. Wilderness Camp is for troubled teens and an alternative therapy to dealing with issues like drug abuse, bulimia, and other behavior issues. It’s a rigorous 30 day camping excursion in the woods involving hiking, team building, and self-exploration through daily journal entries. Kelsie hates being there. She is forced to be there or attend military school.
“After four hours of my own thoughts, I needed to cut. It was overwhelming. My stomach hurt, my chest hurt. It was as if a sumo wrestler was sitting on top of me. The harder I tried to breathe the more it hurt.”
What she doesn’t expect to get is a friendship with JC. A mysterious boy from South Carolina that intrigues Kelsie. On the outside he appears to be “normal”. There was a reason he was sent to Wilderness Camp and but she fails to pry out of him why. As they spend more time together the more their friendship blossoms. As she reads the journal to her Nanny, Kelsie slowly but surely is able to get inside of JC’s head and learn so much about him.
So much happens during their time at Wilderness Camp and the events leading up to their early departure. JC is convinced one of the fellow campers is set there to attack him. After several accidents things start to go from bad to worse. On a night of a rainstorm, another accident causes Kelsie and another camper to hike back and get help. The events leading to this had me on edge and I could not put down my kindle!
What happens after leaves Kelsie feeling like she has the kiss of death. But when her Nanny takes her on a trip to visit her daughter in the hospital, more twist are revealed and has Kelsie questioning everything she thought she knew. Kelsie’s journey out of depression and cutting is not an easy road. Will she be able to break free from that that hold her down and to discover that you don’t need to be related to have a family. That love will find a way if you open your heart to it.
“It don’t take blood to make a family. Just love.””
June 25, 2014
Breaking Free by S.M. Koz
I received this as an ARC copy to review before release date.
8/10
I was hooked after the first couple pages. I couldn't put it down!
This book does have some very sensitive subjects, so be warned some people may be upset by reading it or you could be like me and be fine with it.
Troubled teen Kelsie is living every 16 year old girls nightmare. Mother isn't around anymore and she has the 'evil' stepmother. Not only does she have the evil stepmother but an absent father who pays no attention to her anymore.
She has her friends though, Jenna is her best friend. She would be lost without her.
Kelsie is gorgeous, rich, a cheerleader, she surely has nothing to complain about right?
Well you're right, she has nothing to complain about. Until the day her best friend dies. Kelsie spends her time blaming herself for Jenna's death. Ever single day is getting harder. So what do all evil step mothers do? Help? No. Of course not. Kelsie is shipped away to a wilderness therapy group with the promise of military school if she fails to complete the month in the wild.
Tyrell is strong on the outside. But breaking on the inside. Growing up with no money and mother who works multiple jobs to keep the food on the table, Tyrell knows hardship. He knows what its like to live in an area that is dangerous. He knows how life can be sh*t. Hell he is lucky not to be doing a life sentence in jail.
What he doesn't understand is why there is this Malibu barbie in the therapy wilderness group. She clearly has money, what could she possibly be going through? He wont judge her though because he knows everyone is dealing with their own stuff.
When he sees her struggling on the very first day with cut up feet and a pack that is more than twice her size, he knows he has to help her with it. After all no one else will. They have already proved that by continuing to walk up the trail. Not only is she tiny shes feisty and does not want to be there at all.
A friend ship is blossoming between Kelsie and Tyrell only Tyrell knows he wants more. Kelsie doesn't realize she wants more until its too late.
Tragedy is a main theme in this book and had me in tears a few times.
This book is beautifully written and so easy to read.
This book isn't out until August 1st. So keep your eyes open for it!
I received this as an ARC copy to review before release date.
8/10
I was hooked after the first couple pages. I couldn't put it down!
This book does have some very sensitive subjects, so be warned some people may be upset by reading it or you could be like me and be fine with it.
Troubled teen Kelsie is living every 16 year old girls nightmare. Mother isn't around anymore and she has the 'evil' stepmother. Not only does she have the evil stepmother but an absent father who pays no attention to her anymore.
She has her friends though, Jenna is her best friend. She would be lost without her.
Kelsie is gorgeous, rich, a cheerleader, she surely has nothing to complain about right?
Well you're right, she has nothing to complain about. Until the day her best friend dies. Kelsie spends her time blaming herself for Jenna's death. Ever single day is getting harder. So what do all evil step mothers do? Help? No. Of course not. Kelsie is shipped away to a wilderness therapy group with the promise of military school if she fails to complete the month in the wild.
Tyrell is strong on the outside. But breaking on the inside. Growing up with no money and mother who works multiple jobs to keep the food on the table, Tyrell knows hardship. He knows what its like to live in an area that is dangerous. He knows how life can be sh*t. Hell he is lucky not to be doing a life sentence in jail.
What he doesn't understand is why there is this Malibu barbie in the therapy wilderness group. She clearly has money, what could she possibly be going through? He wont judge her though because he knows everyone is dealing with their own stuff.
When he sees her struggling on the very first day with cut up feet and a pack that is more than twice her size, he knows he has to help her with it. After all no one else will. They have already proved that by continuing to walk up the trail. Not only is she tiny shes feisty and does not want to be there at all.
A friend ship is blossoming between Kelsie and Tyrell only Tyrell knows he wants more. Kelsie doesn't realize she wants more until its too late.
Tragedy is a main theme in this book and had me in tears a few times.
This book is beautifully written and so easy to read.
This book isn't out until August 1st. So keep your eyes open for it!
July 29, 2014
*I was given this book by the author, for an honest review*
I love a good emotional book, and when I read the synopsis for this book, I just knew it would be perfect for me.
Kelsie is a teenager who has experienced an awful tragedy, and she blames herself for it. Jenna, her best friend, is killed in a car accident, while the girls are on their way to the beach. Kelsie blames herself, because Jenna didn't really want to go. Kelsie is left feeling alone in a world without her best friend, and without a support system. Her dad is too involved with work, and her stepmom treats her like crap. She turns to a life of cutting, the one thing that can give her some reprieve from the hell she is in. She tries to hide it from her family, but is soon caught by her stepmom, who sends her to a wilderness program, to try to 'help' her.
She is currently at home, after the wilderness therapy. She is there with her Nanny Marta. The book shows us back and forth scenes that play out as she is reading from the journal of JC. We get to see what happened in the woods and her reactions to what he has written. You can see how close JC and Mal (Kelsie) become, but there is something hidden that JC won't reveal. We are also shown what has happened to lead her to being home...
Good times and bad times happen in the woods. You soon learn why most of the characters are in the program. You see the friendships develop, and you feel the fear from the one group member who is always lurking, never part of the group.
A few accidents and a fight between Bling and JC cause them to be forced to leave the program..... but unfortunately, tragedy strikes and the craziness ensues.
I won't say what happens next, because I could never convey into words the true feelings that I felt.
This book gave me the emotions that I was looking for. It was a great insight into how Kelsie felt with her cutting. I wanted to crawl into the book and throttle her stepmom.
This book is full of beauty and tragedy. I loved all the emotions that I felt.
I love a good emotional book, and when I read the synopsis for this book, I just knew it would be perfect for me.
Kelsie is a teenager who has experienced an awful tragedy, and she blames herself for it. Jenna, her best friend, is killed in a car accident, while the girls are on their way to the beach. Kelsie blames herself, because Jenna didn't really want to go. Kelsie is left feeling alone in a world without her best friend, and without a support system. Her dad is too involved with work, and her stepmom treats her like crap. She turns to a life of cutting, the one thing that can give her some reprieve from the hell she is in. She tries to hide it from her family, but is soon caught by her stepmom, who sends her to a wilderness program, to try to 'help' her.
She is currently at home, after the wilderness therapy. She is there with her Nanny Marta. The book shows us back and forth scenes that play out as she is reading from the journal of JC. We get to see what happened in the woods and her reactions to what he has written. You can see how close JC and Mal (Kelsie) become, but there is something hidden that JC won't reveal. We are also shown what has happened to lead her to being home...
Good times and bad times happen in the woods. You soon learn why most of the characters are in the program. You see the friendships develop, and you feel the fear from the one group member who is always lurking, never part of the group.
A few accidents and a fight between Bling and JC cause them to be forced to leave the program..... but unfortunately, tragedy strikes and the craziness ensues.
I won't say what happens next, because I could never convey into words the true feelings that I felt.
This book gave me the emotions that I was looking for. It was a great insight into how Kelsie felt with her cutting. I wanted to crawl into the book and throttle her stepmom.
This book is full of beauty and tragedy. I loved all the emotions that I felt.
June 10, 2015
We all deal with pain and loss in our own way. Kelsie cuts. In Breaking Free by S.M. Koz, Kelsie is consumed with guilt and grief over losing her best friend in a car accident that she feels responsible for. She soon relies on her razor blades for comfort, which is how she ends up in the Wilderness Therapy program. Among the other troubled teens there for rehabilitation is JC, a boy who is suffering with his own guilt and grief. At first, Kelsie and JC are just friends, but they then feel a deeper connection when they realize that they are helping each other through the pain they feel. Different circumstances, including their past, threaten to keep them apart. Will they both finally experience some happiness or is it too late for that?
With a plot so incredibly heartbreaking yet heartwarming at the same time, this book had me hooked from the beginning. Kelsie and JC have both been through so much in their lives that it’s difficult for them to envision any type of happiness in their futures…until they meet each other. Their connection made this story for me. I felt so attached to their story, to their struggles, which made it very difficult to put the book down. What I also loved about this book is how real it was. S.M. Koz didn’t sugarcoat anything. As a reader, I felt like these were real people with real pain. Anyone who has ever cut or who has ever known someone who has cut will find Kelsie’s thoughts and behavior completely authentic. I think Kelsie’s story is inspirational and can help anyone who is struggling with cutting. It is a very real struggle that isn’t talked about often, so I have so much respect and admiration for this author for addressing it. Incredible writing, real characters, and an unpredictable plot make Breaking Free a must-read. I will be keeping my eye on S.M. Koz. I hope to see many more books by her.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
With a plot so incredibly heartbreaking yet heartwarming at the same time, this book had me hooked from the beginning. Kelsie and JC have both been through so much in their lives that it’s difficult for them to envision any type of happiness in their futures…until they meet each other. Their connection made this story for me. I felt so attached to their story, to their struggles, which made it very difficult to put the book down. What I also loved about this book is how real it was. S.M. Koz didn’t sugarcoat anything. As a reader, I felt like these were real people with real pain. Anyone who has ever cut or who has ever known someone who has cut will find Kelsie’s thoughts and behavior completely authentic. I think Kelsie’s story is inspirational and can help anyone who is struggling with cutting. It is a very real struggle that isn’t talked about often, so I have so much respect and admiration for this author for addressing it. Incredible writing, real characters, and an unpredictable plot make Breaking Free a must-read. I will be keeping my eye on S.M. Koz. I hope to see many more books by her.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
October 27, 2014
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review*
*SPOILERS*
I absolutely loved this book. Not only was I able to relate to Kelsie (or Mal, as her love interest, and boy she crushes on at her therapy camp, Tyrell, nicknamed JC, calls her), but the story was executed awesomely! I loved the flipping between the memories, present conversations post-therapy, and reading JC's journal entries. JC was my favourite character, he had a great attitude for such a shitty situation that happened during his life and he just generally made me giddy when I read about him. I would have liked if JC and Mal's relationship developed more, also with more affection. JC was cheeky as hell and I basked in their witty banter. We didn't get much time with them together one-on-one. Mal was also an amazing character. I understood why she had the bratty attitude in the beginning (I think it was a defence mechanism and she was just generally lost and hurt). I really enjoyed learning more and more about the incidents that took place and there were plenty of plot twists to keep me occupied. I cried plenty because of the content and it really hit home. I feel like this book will shed some light on the subjects featured in this story. Each of the characters and their problems were interesting to read about. I feel like if we had more moments with Mal and JC then their quickly-developed feelings of love would have been more believable. Mal's back story was very intricate and really played a role on her thoughts and feelings. Same goes for JC. When I found out JC was "dead" my heart fell into my stomach and even I felt lonely and hopeless. But then we find out he isn't and we learn all about that, and I felt so relieved that Mal would get some closure. Marta and Chris were such amazing characters and I really admired them. The ideas and plot of this story were very unique and I loved the setting and reading about Mal's life and also JC's. Amazing read!
*SPOILERS*
I absolutely loved this book. Not only was I able to relate to Kelsie (or Mal, as her love interest, and boy she crushes on at her therapy camp, Tyrell, nicknamed JC, calls her), but the story was executed awesomely! I loved the flipping between the memories, present conversations post-therapy, and reading JC's journal entries. JC was my favourite character, he had a great attitude for such a shitty situation that happened during his life and he just generally made me giddy when I read about him. I would have liked if JC and Mal's relationship developed more, also with more affection. JC was cheeky as hell and I basked in their witty banter. We didn't get much time with them together one-on-one. Mal was also an amazing character. I understood why she had the bratty attitude in the beginning (I think it was a defence mechanism and she was just generally lost and hurt). I really enjoyed learning more and more about the incidents that took place and there were plenty of plot twists to keep me occupied. I cried plenty because of the content and it really hit home. I feel like this book will shed some light on the subjects featured in this story. Each of the characters and their problems were interesting to read about. I feel like if we had more moments with Mal and JC then their quickly-developed feelings of love would have been more believable. Mal's back story was very intricate and really played a role on her thoughts and feelings. Same goes for JC. When I found out JC was "dead" my heart fell into my stomach and even I felt lonely and hopeless. But then we find out he isn't and we learn all about that, and I felt so relieved that Mal would get some closure. Marta and Chris were such amazing characters and I really admired them. The ideas and plot of this story were very unique and I loved the setting and reading about Mal's life and also JC's. Amazing read!
May 8, 2014
**ARC received from author**
Kelsie Sullivan's life has been turned upside down. With an absent father and condescending stepmother, the only person Kelsie really has is her best friend, Jenna. One night, an accident takes Jenna's life, and Kelsie blames herself. Unable to cope with the grief and guilt, she turns to cutting to ease the pain.
It's not long before Kelsie's secret is discovered, and she's whisked off to a Wilderness Therapy Program in North Carolina. Coming from California, this is a huge change for her. Surrounded by other troubled teens and unable to use the one mechanism she's found to feel better, Kelsie has to come to grips with what the program is trying to show her.
Enter JC, one of the other teens on the trip. Of course he has a troubled past of his own, and he and Kelsie strike up a friendship which evolves into more. I don't want to give too much of the story away, but let's just say their time in the wilderness turns from innocent therapy into something life-threatening. Suddenly, nature turns on the group, leaving Kelsie, JC, and the others fighting for survival.
One thing I enjoyed about this story is the realistic nature. The issues JC and Kelsie face are real - there is nothing in this story fluffy or unbelievable. Kelsie and JC do not fall into insta-love, it's a progression. They get to know one another and discuss their ugly pasts. The book flips from present to past, and I will say I found myself sad at times. I seriously thought the author was trying to lure me into depression! However, when certain secrets are revealed, I'm happy to say the story stayed in the present and became hopeful. I believe S.M. Koz handled the true-to-life issues in this book with tact and class. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Kelsie Sullivan's life has been turned upside down. With an absent father and condescending stepmother, the only person Kelsie really has is her best friend, Jenna. One night, an accident takes Jenna's life, and Kelsie blames herself. Unable to cope with the grief and guilt, she turns to cutting to ease the pain.
It's not long before Kelsie's secret is discovered, and she's whisked off to a Wilderness Therapy Program in North Carolina. Coming from California, this is a huge change for her. Surrounded by other troubled teens and unable to use the one mechanism she's found to feel better, Kelsie has to come to grips with what the program is trying to show her.
Enter JC, one of the other teens on the trip. Of course he has a troubled past of his own, and he and Kelsie strike up a friendship which evolves into more. I don't want to give too much of the story away, but let's just say their time in the wilderness turns from innocent therapy into something life-threatening. Suddenly, nature turns on the group, leaving Kelsie, JC, and the others fighting for survival.
One thing I enjoyed about this story is the realistic nature. The issues JC and Kelsie face are real - there is nothing in this story fluffy or unbelievable. Kelsie and JC do not fall into insta-love, it's a progression. They get to know one another and discuss their ugly pasts. The book flips from present to past, and I will say I found myself sad at times. I seriously thought the author was trying to lure me into depression! However, when certain secrets are revealed, I'm happy to say the story stayed in the present and became hopeful. I believe S.M. Koz handled the true-to-life issues in this book with tact and class. I look forward to reading more from this author.
August 1, 2014
This advanced copy read is a realistic depiction of struggles that teenagers go through in life. It doesn't matter what walk of life you come from good and bad things happen. It is what you do with your experiences and challenges that mold you into who you grow up to become.
Kelsie feels guilty about an event that happened and she uses cutting to relieve the pain she is feeling. She does not have the support of a good family to help her work through her issues. Her father is never around and her step mother is not of any use either.
Kelsie is enrolled in a Therapy program to help her overcome her cutting habit. She does not want to go to this wilderness therapy program and does her best to try to get thrown out of the program.
The other troubled teens who are sent to this program have a wide variety of issues that they are there to try to overcome or strategies to deal with issues in a more productive way. Kelsie becomes friends with JC. The two of them both have past experiences that make them hold onto guilt that may be justifiable or not. JC is someone that she feels comfortable with, is able to talk to and he is able to help her work through some of the times she is dealing with pain.
You will have to read this book to see how the teenagers bond together or try to tear each other apart. See how their experiences in the wilderness either help them to better deal with their problems or not. See if any of the teenagers develop relationships amongst each other or the adult/s in charge of the group.
I feel that this book could help teens who are dealing with similar issues to see that there are people who are willing to listen and offer help. This book could possibly help someone who is going through similar problems and teach them how to better work through them. This is a very emotional book so have your tissues handy.
Kelsie feels guilty about an event that happened and she uses cutting to relieve the pain she is feeling. She does not have the support of a good family to help her work through her issues. Her father is never around and her step mother is not of any use either.
Kelsie is enrolled in a Therapy program to help her overcome her cutting habit. She does not want to go to this wilderness therapy program and does her best to try to get thrown out of the program.
The other troubled teens who are sent to this program have a wide variety of issues that they are there to try to overcome or strategies to deal with issues in a more productive way. Kelsie becomes friends with JC. The two of them both have past experiences that make them hold onto guilt that may be justifiable or not. JC is someone that she feels comfortable with, is able to talk to and he is able to help her work through some of the times she is dealing with pain.
You will have to read this book to see how the teenagers bond together or try to tear each other apart. See how their experiences in the wilderness either help them to better deal with their problems or not. See if any of the teenagers develop relationships amongst each other or the adult/s in charge of the group.
I feel that this book could help teens who are dealing with similar issues to see that there are people who are willing to listen and offer help. This book could possibly help someone who is going through similar problems and teach them how to better work through them. This is a very emotional book so have your tissues handy.
August 22, 2016
I going to start with the bottom line: I just added a new shelf to my GR books, "Superlative authors", and S. M. Koz is one of the reasons. There are writers and books which remind me what a five star rating is *really* for. One does give a rating when reviewing, but in this case giving a rating is the least of my responses to this book.
Koz tends to deal with real hard issues. How would you respond to finding out that someone you know cuts? Or indulges in any other self-destructive and compulsive behaviour? One of the biggest thing Koz achieves in this book is to give the reader a clue where to start.
The story revolves around Kelsie (aka 'Malibu Kreuger'(!) or 'Mal' for short) and JC, two young people in a small group of teens who are each wrestling with more than they can deal with. Kelsie is dispatched to this wilderness therapy camp by the step-mother from hell.
The characters and reality-grounded story are amazing. The way that Kelsie and the others struggle onwards through a maze of enabling, healing, and destructive relationships is never-let-you-go gripping. Kelsie and JC find one another like islands in a sea of sharks, and love follows - naturally, but not easily. The pace of the story is superb as well, not to mention the deep and nuanced plot. This book is a keeper.
This book made me feel that I could lose a limb, or two, and go on undefeated, still full of hope for the future. Thank you.
Koz tends to deal with real hard issues. How would you respond to finding out that someone you know cuts? Or indulges in any other self-destructive and compulsive behaviour? One of the biggest thing Koz achieves in this book is to give the reader a clue where to start.
The story revolves around Kelsie (aka 'Malibu Kreuger'(!) or 'Mal' for short) and JC, two young people in a small group of teens who are each wrestling with more than they can deal with. Kelsie is dispatched to this wilderness therapy camp by the step-mother from hell.
The characters and reality-grounded story are amazing. The way that Kelsie and the others struggle onwards through a maze of enabling, healing, and destructive relationships is never-let-you-go gripping. Kelsie and JC find one another like islands in a sea of sharks, and love follows - naturally, but not easily. The pace of the story is superb as well, not to mention the deep and nuanced plot. This book is a keeper.
This book made me feel that I could lose a limb, or two, and go on undefeated, still full of hope for the future. Thank you.
October 16, 2014
Kelsie has had some major changes in her life. She tried to deal with them by cutting herself which led her to being at wilderness camp. There she meets some interesting people. J.C. is the one she spends a lot of time with. J.C. is kind of secretive on why he is there. We know he did something to be there be we don't find out to much later what it is. both Kelsie and J.C. have a lot of guilty for what things that happened in the past.
Breaking Free is a great read. It's a very emotional roller coaster read. The story goes back and forth from past to present. The transitions from past to present are written wonderful and are not confusing at all. There are a lot of surprise twists in the story. Just when you come to terms with one surprise revaluation, S.M. Koz throws another one at you. It keeps you guessing on what going to happen next and how it's going to end. This is definitely a book that once you pick it up you won't want to put it down until you finish.
I absolutely love Kelsie and J.C.'s story. There is no cliffhanger. It's a standalone but the end leaves you wanting to know more about Kelsie's future.
Breaking Free is a great read. It's a very emotional roller coaster read. The story goes back and forth from past to present. The transitions from past to present are written wonderful and are not confusing at all. There are a lot of surprise twists in the story. Just when you come to terms with one surprise revaluation, S.M. Koz throws another one at you. It keeps you guessing on what going to happen next and how it's going to end. This is definitely a book that once you pick it up you won't want to put it down until you finish.
I absolutely love Kelsie and J.C.'s story. There is no cliffhanger. It's a standalone but the end leaves you wanting to know more about Kelsie's future.
June 6, 2014
I was given this book as and ARC from the author
Wow! I found this to be one of the most heart warming books ive read in along time.
I was gripped from the start and found it difficult to put down, the story had originality.
The story itself is a very realistic example of todays traumas and pressures people go through. Life isnt easy for everyone and what appears on the outside certainly isnt the reality on the inside for many of us.
The author did a great with the characters and they were brilliantly written. This book had me laughing and crying at points. At first I thought Kelsie had such an attitude but you son realise that is outside shell the inside goes much deeper and you find she is a caring and compassionate individual who doesnt judgeyou for who you are. JC you just knew you would fall in love with his character, the way he is with Kelsie dispite her inital attitude. The other characters Chris, the 'nanny' Martha , Mia and Neeky were great.
A job well done with this book!
Wow! I found this to be one of the most heart warming books ive read in along time.
I was gripped from the start and found it difficult to put down, the story had originality.
The story itself is a very realistic example of todays traumas and pressures people go through. Life isnt easy for everyone and what appears on the outside certainly isnt the reality on the inside for many of us.
The author did a great with the characters and they were brilliantly written. This book had me laughing and crying at points. At first I thought Kelsie had such an attitude but you son realise that is outside shell the inside goes much deeper and you find she is a caring and compassionate individual who doesnt judgeyou for who you are. JC you just knew you would fall in love with his character, the way he is with Kelsie dispite her inital attitude. The other characters Chris, the 'nanny' Martha , Mia and Neeky were great.
A job well done with this book!
August 8, 2014
This book had some really heavy stuff. Although it reads more like a YA novel, I think it is listed as a New Adult Romance, or something like that, and that may be because of the intensity, like with the cutting, and relationships, things like that. I pretty much cried the entire time I read this book, and once I started it, I could not put it down, I read it through the night into the morning cause I HAD to finish it. Even though the beginning, and middle were extremely heavy, the end almost was a too good to be true kind of thing, and is actually why I would consider it a YA, because the ending was SO happy. A lot of people stated they didn't like Mal, or Kelsie, because she was bratty, but I did like her, and felt bad for her, because I could see why she was like that, with no one really on her side, the adults in her life absent, I would think it was her defense mechanism, she was afraid to be hurt if she felt anything for anyone. This book was intense, and with the exception of the overly happy ending, I really loved it.
July 7, 2014
(A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.)
Breaking Free was an okay read, but at times it dragged.
Kelsie wasn't a very likable character to begin with. She didn't really care about the other people in the camp, and was quite selfish when it came to completing her punishment.
Luckily, she stopped being so self centered, and i started to like her near the end.
I really liked JC, and the mystery surrounding what happened to him kept me interested - Although, it could be a bit confusing at times!
The pacing could be quite slow at times, so there was some parts that really bored me.
If the pacing was a bit faster, and it didn't take me as long to warm to Kelsie as it did, this would have most likely been a 4 star rating.
Overall, alright, but cold have done with being a bit faster.
Breaking Free was an okay read, but at times it dragged.
Kelsie wasn't a very likable character to begin with. She didn't really care about the other people in the camp, and was quite selfish when it came to completing her punishment.
Luckily, she stopped being so self centered, and i started to like her near the end.
I really liked JC, and the mystery surrounding what happened to him kept me interested - Although, it could be a bit confusing at times!
The pacing could be quite slow at times, so there was some parts that really bored me.
If the pacing was a bit faster, and it didn't take me as long to warm to Kelsie as it did, this would have most likely been a 4 star rating.
Overall, alright, but cold have done with being a bit faster.
August 9, 2014
This book is my favorite read of 2014. It is amazing. Clearly the author did a lot of research on the topic of cutting.
Mal and JC capture you in the beginning and don't let go till you read the end and then you just want to start it all over again. Couldn't get enough of it. Loved the story, how it went about the real problems some deal with all the time. I loved Mal's will to keep going even if she had doubts, not everybody can do this and not everybody wants to. Do to SM Koz I want to say for a first book I read from you it was quite the impact it left on me. Hope to read more soon because this was really a five star read and certainly more.
Mal and JC capture you in the beginning and don't let go till you read the end and then you just want to start it all over again. Couldn't get enough of it. Loved the story, how it went about the real problems some deal with all the time. I loved Mal's will to keep going even if she had doubts, not everybody can do this and not everybody wants to. Do to SM Koz I want to say for a first book I read from you it was quite the impact it left on me. Hope to read more soon because this was really a five star read and certainly more.
June 12, 2014
ARC provided by Author
I started this book yesterday morning and finished before noon. I was instantly hooked and could not put it down. I was shocked to find that this is the author's debut novel!! It was fantastic!
Breaking Free is the heart warming and touching story of Mal who is struggling with the guilt of something that she had no control over. It takes us on her journey through recovery and of course has it's twists and turns along the way. I emailed S.m a few times in a panic.
This is a definite 5 star must read!!! Thanks S.M for giving me the chance!
I started this book yesterday morning and finished before noon. I was instantly hooked and could not put it down. I was shocked to find that this is the author's debut novel!! It was fantastic!
Breaking Free is the heart warming and touching story of Mal who is struggling with the guilt of something that she had no control over. It takes us on her journey through recovery and of course has it's twists and turns along the way. I emailed S.m a few times in a panic.
This is a definite 5 star must read!!! Thanks S.M for giving me the chance!
August 7, 2014
Love Kelsie, love how the author switched between her "rehab" and present and the emotional journey this character went through. Very emotional, intriguing and mysterious all in one. Kelsie not only deals with a accident that she can't get over but also a very unstable home life. JC 's character is just as great and these two together just made the Story come alive. The author captures each characters emotions and ups and downs wonderfully. The story gets a little slow in parts but over all a great story. 4 stars review by Nanee at upallnightreadallday.blogspot.com
May 12, 2014
***ARC received from author***
A very true to life book that deals with pressures that teens face these days. Cutting is a very serious, real thing teens use to try and cope. This story shows one girls journey with this issue and how she overcame with the help of a boy who was also dealing with his own demons. A couple of twists and turns made this book even more interesting to read. I am excited to read more by this author in the future!
A very true to life book that deals with pressures that teens face these days. Cutting is a very serious, real thing teens use to try and cope. This story shows one girls journey with this issue and how she overcame with the help of a boy who was also dealing with his own demons. A couple of twists and turns made this book even more interesting to read. I am excited to read more by this author in the future!
May 29, 2014
* ARC *
I was gifted an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
And I can honestly say I loved this book, there was so much too it, the cover is wonderful and the book is just WOW! S.M Koz is a brilliant writer, I definitely recommend this book to everyone. The story of Mal is just so different, Mal is a character who feels guilt for something she had no control over.
This is the type of book I could read more than once.
Thank you S.M for giving me this chance.
I was gifted an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
And I can honestly say I loved this book, there was so much too it, the cover is wonderful and the book is just WOW! S.M Koz is a brilliant writer, I definitely recommend this book to everyone. The story of Mal is just so different, Mal is a character who feels guilt for something she had no control over.
This is the type of book I could read more than once.
Thank you S.M for giving me this chance.
May 16, 2014
ARC received from author
I loved this book! It grabbed me right into the story, I lived the journey camping! How does one overcome such tragedy ? As in life we all grieve in different ways, I wanted to reach in and wipe her tears, I wanted her to hear my laughs as she laughed.
I would recommend this book to eve gone! One of the best reads I've had all year!
I loved this book! It grabbed me right into the story, I lived the journey camping! How does one overcome such tragedy ? As in life we all grieve in different ways, I wanted to reach in and wipe her tears, I wanted her to hear my laughs as she laughed.
I would recommend this book to eve gone! One of the best reads I've had all year!
August 3, 2014
Excellent read!! Nothing like what I expected. Literally read it cover to cover in one night
August 5, 2014
Absolutely fell in deep love with these characters!
Want to read
August 21, 2015Going to DNF this for now.
May 26, 2018
Breaking Free was a surprisingly mysterious and intriguing book that followed the story of Kelsie, a seventeen-year-old who has just gotten out of a month of wilderness therapy. The story switches from the present, where Kelsie is home at home after being "rehabilitated", and flashbacks to her time at the camp.
Kelsie was a decent character who had some up and down moments. I wasn't completely fond of her, at times she was awfully bratty and a bit selfish, but she grew as me as the story panned out. It was interesting to learn about her condition - what led her to being put into the rehabilitation program - and the events that led up to her meltdown. I obviously adored JC. He had a wonderful spark to him and I love how he approached his situation with a reassuring smile and a positive attitude.
The program itself was interesting. I have heard of these sorts of wilderness therapies but never really know how they worked or what sort of patients were sent there etc. It was interesting to see how Chris Kris dealt with some of the more problematic campers and how the campers themselves bonded over time because of their similar additions and/or conditions.
What bought this book down for me was how awfully slow paced it was, and how dull the second half was. The switching between the present and past provided great suspense as we didn't quite know what was happening in the present sections and we had to wait to see what had happened at camp that caused all the mystery. It certainly kept you guessing and I was pleasantly surprised by a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming. The second half, however, was dull. The mystery was over by then and I wasn't on board the new angle it took.
The romance was also a little underdeveloped. I loved the relationship between the couple - it was rather sweet - but I found that it was too rushed for my liking, they went from liking each other to "loving" one another a bit too easily in my opinion.
Overall, I found Breaking Free to be a decent contemporary romance that could have done with a bit more development. For a debut, it was rather well-written and I will certainly be picking up more of the author's future work.
Review copy provided by the author for an honest review..
Kelsie was a decent character who had some up and down moments. I wasn't completely fond of her, at times she was awfully bratty and a bit selfish, but she grew as me as the story panned out. It was interesting to learn about her condition - what led her to being put into the rehabilitation program - and the events that led up to her meltdown. I obviously adored JC. He had a wonderful spark to him and I love how he approached his situation with a reassuring smile and a positive attitude.
The program itself was interesting. I have heard of these sorts of wilderness therapies but never really know how they worked or what sort of patients were sent there etc. It was interesting to see how Chris Kris dealt with some of the more problematic campers and how the campers themselves bonded over time because of their similar additions and/or conditions.
What bought this book down for me was how awfully slow paced it was, and how dull the second half was. The switching between the present and past provided great suspense as we didn't quite know what was happening in the present sections and we had to wait to see what had happened at camp that caused all the mystery. It certainly kept you guessing and I was pleasantly surprised by a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming. The second half, however, was dull. The mystery was over by then and I wasn't on board the new angle it took.
The romance was also a little underdeveloped. I loved the relationship between the couple - it was rather sweet - but I found that it was too rushed for my liking, they went from liking each other to "loving" one another a bit too easily in my opinion.
Overall, I found Breaking Free to be a decent contemporary romance that could have done with a bit more development. For a debut, it was rather well-written and I will certainly be picking up more of the author's future work.
Review copy provided by the author for an honest review..
June 18, 2018
I was unsure when I decided to move this book to the top of my tbr pile. I have to say I’m glad I did, this book was really good! You follow Kelsie in present time and the past that has led to the present. You find out that a once popular cheerleader, with a wicked stepmother, a dad who isn’t ever present, is human and can fall down a dark hole. After an accident took her best friends life she turns to the razor and the relief it brings her to the pain and guilt she is carrying around. When her stepwitch sends her to a wilderness retreat to work out her issues. She meets a boy named JC who might just be able to save her and make her realize maybe it wasn’t all her fault and help her heal. With moment that will steal your breath, make you feel the sadness roll off the pages, SM Koz spins a story that many teens could learn from. Many things talked about in the book are still not a thing that families talk to their children about, maybe the signs could help others help the ones who are silently begging for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2018
Pretty good
I’ve been sitting on this book for close to 4 years...I’m not sure why it kept getting pushed back, maybe the heavy nature of the topic it was going to cover...? Nevertheless, a “clear your bookshelf” decree from my book club and I went to the last book on my shelf. I’m glad I finally read it...I felt like the topic was good, stepmother was a little “out there” and coupled with a VERY absentee father it was a little harder to believe some of the things that went down. I enjoyed the storyline of the wilderness retreat and the “nanny” who all ended up being connected together. I felt like the connection between JC and Mal was a bit much given their age...but they had both been through a lot in their young lives, so maybe I’m the one off-base.
I’ve been sitting on this book for close to 4 years...I’m not sure why it kept getting pushed back, maybe the heavy nature of the topic it was going to cover...? Nevertheless, a “clear your bookshelf” decree from my book club and I went to the last book on my shelf. I’m glad I finally read it...I felt like the topic was good, stepmother was a little “out there” and coupled with a VERY absentee father it was a little harder to believe some of the things that went down. I enjoyed the storyline of the wilderness retreat and the “nanny” who all ended up being connected together. I felt like the connection between JC and Mal was a bit much given their age...but they had both been through a lot in their young lives, so maybe I’m the one off-base.
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