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Fake Boobs
Coming February 2015.
New Adult Contemporary Romance.
Tori Albert is eighteen, her confidence level is zero. Her life experience…also zero. She’s a girl lost in the shuffle, hiding in the shadows, craving attention. If only someone, anyone, would notice her, maybe life would improve.
Grant Donovan can’t stop noticing Tori, but she is young, inexperienced and naïve. She is also his best friend’s younger sister. Grant knows the best thing he can do is just walk away. So why the hell isn’t he walking away?
When a late night knock lands across her bedroom door, Tori knows what stands behind it could end in disaster…but how many time does opportunity come knocking?
Just when she thinks her luck is finally changing, the assurance Tori believes she has finally found is taken away. With new assets and a new goal in sight, Tori will soon learn her new found confidence isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Unfortunately, some things you just have to learn the hard way.
*Contains Mature Content
New Adult Contemporary Romance.
Tori Albert is eighteen, her confidence level is zero. Her life experience…also zero. She’s a girl lost in the shuffle, hiding in the shadows, craving attention. If only someone, anyone, would notice her, maybe life would improve.
Grant Donovan can’t stop noticing Tori, but she is young, inexperienced and naïve. She is also his best friend’s younger sister. Grant knows the best thing he can do is just walk away. So why the hell isn’t he walking away?
When a late night knock lands across her bedroom door, Tori knows what stands behind it could end in disaster…but how many time does opportunity come knocking?
Just when she thinks her luck is finally changing, the assurance Tori believes she has finally found is taken away. With new assets and a new goal in sight, Tori will soon learn her new found confidence isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Unfortunately, some things you just have to learn the hard way.
*Contains Mature Content
Paperback
First published February 1, 2015
23 people are currently reading
572 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Ringbloom
20 books400 followersHi, I’m Ryan Ringbloom, a Jersey girl who doesn’t write Alphas. I couldn’t if I tried. Social Media stresses me the frick out, yet I can’t seem to walk away from it. I love to binge watch TV. I think cats are awesome. I’m obsessed with coffee and Fireball. But never together. I am counting down the days until self-driving cars are the norm. And if there is ever a zombie apocalypse, I won’t even try to run. I will let the first one I see eat my brain and get it over with.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 20, 2018
3 Conflicted Stars
* * *
Update:- I did this review in 2015 addressing the all of the "thoughts" I had while reading and after. It came across my notifications today and after re-reading it again in 2018 with the constant barrage of "Selfies Filtered to look Real", with people actually going to plastic surgeons to become more like their Shapchat pic...I think the review stands.
There is progress, though, with many new body positive campaigns taking place and more acceptance of how real people are beautiful without the cookie cutter images.
I would like to add part of a conversation I had in the comments, I think it sums up my feelings best:
The Original 2015 Review (A bit of a Rant... Not on the book but subject matter)
This is a hard review for me... reason being, I applaud any attention given to the hypocrisy of our society and how a women's worth is tied to their body shape. It saddens me we have generations of women and also men too, who have no clear understanding of they are more than their appearance.
Yes, it may seem naive to talk about how all of us should be more focused on who we are, in how we treat others, how we accomplish things of merit and be the type of person who really does live the golden rule fully..."do onto others as you wish to have done to you..." but that would be my wish.
Instead we have media of all types screaming at us constantly, how we are not right if our bodies don't conform to the popular image of the times. We have all heard how the Iconic Marilyn Monroe would never fit in as her size was a 16 not the popular 2 or glorified 0 zero . Yes, we also have an obsession with booty but that silhouette which is now promoted was not in vogue less than 10 years ago. So, depending on the decade...we women need to conform in order to be "wanted, considered beautiful and possibly loved".
I brought all this up because this book focused primarily on the chest...and the lack of one by our gal, Tori. Tori has long limbs, strong and lanky. She has beautiful brown eyes, dark shoulder length hair and no chest of any size. She has an older brother who she adores and has grown up hanging with him and his friends. Unfortunately, her parents have failed her in my book because instead of paying attention to her and seeing where she may need some encouragement and guidance, they pretty much ignored her... being those parents who seemed to have their desires over shadowing their responsibilities in parenting.
All of this has resulted in a girl insecure about her body, hanging out with her brother and his friends hearing and reenforcing the loathing she has for herself. Oh, they didn't say she was ugly or not worthy.... no... but all she would hear was how guys talk about girls, how they rated them on their body parts, how they would hit that or she was fugly... because Tori would be invisible to them...she was only Jim's little sister...and well... in their minds...she didn't count.
Now combine all of those comments and add the kids at school taunting her about how she looked like a boy or how she has no problems because she is slim so shut up...and it is a recipe for self loathing and disaster.
Tori is no longer the little kid sister, though. She is now 18 and getting ready for college. She has no life experience to speak of...hasn't even been kissed yet. She is at this point where she feels if she doesn't get some type of experience before going away... she will make a complete idiot of herself.
What happens as we learn about all of this is what may be happening everywhere there is a young girl on the verge of becoming a woman all over the world... After years of hearing what is supposed to be the perfect body to attract affection and love, Tori is willing to do whatever with one of her brother's drunken friends. This guy, who has a handsome face but is known by Tori and everyone else as a dog with girls, decides in his drunken state to approach her. All the friends had been hanging out with Jim, drinking... getting ready to return to their schools. In no shape to drive, Jim had places for them downstairs in the backroom on couches, etc to sleep it off.
Kyle comes to Tori's door and she lets him in...he flirts, tells her how pretty she has become and by the way... you are 18 now, right...
He moves closer and we are told how excited she feels and thinks Kyle may even be into her because he shows her how hard he is through his jeans...He uses the question of does she want to see and how he tastes just like a cherry Popsicle...She sort of does a little something, is teased as to how she doesn't know what she is doing..she rebounds to get a tie to pull her hair away... to "do better" when another friend she grew up with storms in breaking up the situation.
Grant is the good guy friend. He has always been the nice one. But right now Tori is upset because she thought she was finally going to have some experience... maybe not good, maybe not the best... but at least in her head... something. Grant gets the other guy out, settles him down for the night and tells Tori he is sorry for what Kyle was doing. She yells at him...he decides they need to have a real conversation later.
This pattern develops where Grant intervenes and saves Tori from being used again. He finally tries to explain she is leaving herself open to users and needs to watch out... Each time, he is clumsy in his comments because she only hears "no one would really want her because she is ugly and has no body"... when he is saying she is sweet, pretty and just hasn't experienced life.
The story progresses; Tori experiences some affection from Grant as he actually cares deeply for her...but is conflicted... she is his best friend's sister... and her insecurity bothers him.
We go on this self-hate journey with Tori and every step of the way she either gets negative reinforcement from either her new college roommate who is obsessed with using guys with her looks or by no contact with her parents (they are thriving in the empty nest period they are in)or brother (he is going to graduate soon and also be a baby daddy with his girlfriend). She is left to fend for herself.
She has one too many hurtful experiences; drinks the roommate's Kool-Aid of artificial makeovers resulting in her receiving the attention she has dreamed of...guys making idiots of themselves because she stuffed her bra with "chicken cutlet" boobs. Now they drool...now they talk to her chest and send drinks. She bleaches her hair platinum, applies the makeup and even gets blue contacts to go with the light hair....
Now she is what they want... right...
Now she is in control, not them...
Now she will play them, use them and that will make her happy...
Time passes; she is working at this bar which has the waitresses dressed in corsets which barely cover the nips...her roommate is a little jealous of Tori. Tori has taken the plunge... did the deed... got size D implants ... the size all those guys back home talked of...but she is not exactly happy and doesn't know how to fix it...She still dreams of Grant.
This story has this "forbidden" romance of brother's friend which starts out as a positive but then turns very negative due to neither of these two talking directly about how they feel. She was younger than him; inexperienced and it made some sense she was afraid to say anything...but for me, Grant messed up. A Lot... causing more negative feelings for Tori which was not what he intended.
The story had a message... it may not have gone about it the way I was comfortable with...but I do applaud the effort. The author touched on real issues which are happening right now as I type... and will not go away anytime soon.
The best take away from this would be read it; see if you have any unresolved issues of your own... look at them and let it all go- be who you are now and love yourself.
If you have children, then pay attention... especially when they think you are not listening and hear what they are saying and more importantly... what they are not saying...
Be available, open minded and supportive.... that is all we can do.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * *
Update:- I did this review in 2015 addressing the all of the "thoughts" I had while reading and after. It came across my notifications today and after re-reading it again in 2018 with the constant barrage of "Selfies Filtered to look Real", with people actually going to plastic surgeons to become more like their Shapchat pic...I think the review stands.
There is progress, though, with many new body positive campaigns taking place and more acceptance of how real people are beautiful without the cookie cutter images.
I would like to add part of a conversation I had in the comments, I think it sums up my feelings best:
"First of all....everyone has something we are not happy with...it is just human nature, I guess...But...it is the strength of knowing who you are which should help us deal with these things.
It is important to note...if changing a feature is what you feel will make you, you...then go for it..it is the WHY you do it...which is the key."
The Original 2015 Review (A bit of a Rant... Not on the book but subject matter)
This is a hard review for me... reason being, I applaud any attention given to the hypocrisy of our society and how a women's worth is tied to their body shape. It saddens me we have generations of women and also men too, who have no clear understanding of they are more than their appearance.
Yes, it may seem naive to talk about how all of us should be more focused on who we are, in how we treat others, how we accomplish things of merit and be the type of person who really does live the golden rule fully..."do onto others as you wish to have done to you..." but that would be my wish.
Instead we have media of all types screaming at us constantly, how we are not right if our bodies don't conform to the popular image of the times. We have all heard how the Iconic Marilyn Monroe would never fit in as her size was a 16 not the popular 2 or glorified 0 zero . Yes, we also have an obsession with booty but that silhouette which is now promoted was not in vogue less than 10 years ago. So, depending on the decade...we women need to conform in order to be "wanted, considered beautiful and possibly loved".
I brought all this up because this book focused primarily on the chest...and the lack of one by our gal, Tori. Tori has long limbs, strong and lanky. She has beautiful brown eyes, dark shoulder length hair and no chest of any size. She has an older brother who she adores and has grown up hanging with him and his friends. Unfortunately, her parents have failed her in my book because instead of paying attention to her and seeing where she may need some encouragement and guidance, they pretty much ignored her... being those parents who seemed to have their desires over shadowing their responsibilities in parenting.
All of this has resulted in a girl insecure about her body, hanging out with her brother and his friends hearing and reenforcing the loathing she has for herself. Oh, they didn't say she was ugly or not worthy.... no... but all she would hear was how guys talk about girls, how they rated them on their body parts, how they would hit that or she was fugly... because Tori would be invisible to them...she was only Jim's little sister...and well... in their minds...she didn't count.
Now combine all of those comments and add the kids at school taunting her about how she looked like a boy or how she has no problems because she is slim so shut up...and it is a recipe for self loathing and disaster.
Tori is no longer the little kid sister, though. She is now 18 and getting ready for college. She has no life experience to speak of...hasn't even been kissed yet. She is at this point where she feels if she doesn't get some type of experience before going away... she will make a complete idiot of herself.
What happens as we learn about all of this is what may be happening everywhere there is a young girl on the verge of becoming a woman all over the world... After years of hearing what is supposed to be the perfect body to attract affection and love, Tori is willing to do whatever with one of her brother's drunken friends. This guy, who has a handsome face but is known by Tori and everyone else as a dog with girls, decides in his drunken state to approach her. All the friends had been hanging out with Jim, drinking... getting ready to return to their schools. In no shape to drive, Jim had places for them downstairs in the backroom on couches, etc to sleep it off.
Kyle comes to Tori's door and she lets him in...he flirts, tells her how pretty she has become and by the way... you are 18 now, right...
He moves closer and we are told how excited she feels and thinks Kyle may even be into her because he shows her how hard he is through his jeans...He uses the question of does she want to see and how he tastes just like a cherry Popsicle...She sort of does a little something, is teased as to how she doesn't know what she is doing..she rebounds to get a tie to pull her hair away... to "do better" when another friend she grew up with storms in breaking up the situation.
Grant is the good guy friend. He has always been the nice one. But right now Tori is upset because she thought she was finally going to have some experience... maybe not good, maybe not the best... but at least in her head... something. Grant gets the other guy out, settles him down for the night and tells Tori he is sorry for what Kyle was doing. She yells at him...he decides they need to have a real conversation later.
This pattern develops where Grant intervenes and saves Tori from being used again. He finally tries to explain she is leaving herself open to users and needs to watch out... Each time, he is clumsy in his comments because she only hears "no one would really want her because she is ugly and has no body"... when he is saying she is sweet, pretty and just hasn't experienced life.
The story progresses; Tori experiences some affection from Grant as he actually cares deeply for her...but is conflicted... she is his best friend's sister... and her insecurity bothers him.
We go on this self-hate journey with Tori and every step of the way she either gets negative reinforcement from either her new college roommate who is obsessed with using guys with her looks or by no contact with her parents (they are thriving in the empty nest period they are in)or brother (he is going to graduate soon and also be a baby daddy with his girlfriend). She is left to fend for herself.
She has one too many hurtful experiences; drinks the roommate's Kool-Aid of artificial makeovers resulting in her receiving the attention she has dreamed of...guys making idiots of themselves because she stuffed her bra with "chicken cutlet" boobs. Now they drool...now they talk to her chest and send drinks. She bleaches her hair platinum, applies the makeup and even gets blue contacts to go with the light hair....
Now she is what they want... right...
Now she is in control, not them...
Now she will play them, use them and that will make her happy...
Time passes; she is working at this bar which has the waitresses dressed in corsets which barely cover the nips...her roommate is a little jealous of Tori. Tori has taken the plunge... did the deed... got size D implants ... the size all those guys back home talked of...but she is not exactly happy and doesn't know how to fix it...She still dreams of Grant.
This story has this "forbidden" romance of brother's friend which starts out as a positive but then turns very negative due to neither of these two talking directly about how they feel. She was younger than him; inexperienced and it made some sense she was afraid to say anything...but for me, Grant messed up. A Lot... causing more negative feelings for Tori which was not what he intended.
The story had a message... it may not have gone about it the way I was comfortable with...but I do applaud the effort. The author touched on real issues which are happening right now as I type... and will not go away anytime soon.
The best take away from this would be read it; see if you have any unresolved issues of your own... look at them and let it all go- be who you are now and love yourself.
If you have children, then pay attention... especially when they think you are not listening and hear what they are saying and more importantly... what they are not saying...
Be available, open minded and supportive.... that is all we can do.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
September 14, 2018
A bit of a frustrating read for me. I don’t enjoy reading about a heroine with such low self esteem like Tori had. Chalk it up to neglectful parents and being made fun of by her peers, and I could see why Tori felt the way she did. It made me sad that she related her feelings of self worth to her lack of (in her eyes) physical beauty.
And even when Grant came along and assured her of her beauty, she couldn’t believe him. Grant wasn’t exactly the best at expressing his feelings, and a lot of heartbreak could’ve been avoided if these two communicated better. Ack! At times they drove me crazy...
It was a long, complicated journey (filled with plenty of bad advice/decisions) and some needed maturity before Tori realized the woman she wanted to be.
A worthwhile read for young adults (especially girls).
3 1/2 stars
And even when Grant came along and assured her of her beauty, she couldn’t believe him. Grant wasn’t exactly the best at expressing his feelings, and a lot of heartbreak could’ve been avoided if these two communicated better. Ack! At times they drove me crazy...
It was a long, complicated journey (filled with plenty of bad advice/decisions) and some needed maturity before Tori realized the woman she wanted to be.
A worthwhile read for young adults (especially girls).
3 1/2 stars
June 10, 2015
3.5 Stars
Fake Boobs, told in dual POV's, takes us on a journey of self-hate, with eighteen year old Tori Albert. Naturally, Tori has the build of a slender boy. She is also lacking one prominent aspect of being female, boobs! She is flat chested and because of Tori's boyish looks; her feelings of loneliness, peer pressure, and lack of parental support. Further compounded by listening to her brother's friends, and all their commentary about women's looks. She firmly believes, that to be noticed by the opposite sex, Tori must fall into the stereotypical 'bombshell' category. With this impression branded and deeply seated within her, Tori's insecurities and her lack of life experience, has brought her to the brink of trouble on a few occasions.
Her saving grace comes in the form of Grant. Her brother's best friend. Grant is the good guy. The All American sweetheart. After saving Tori from some unsavory situations, Grants starts to spend time with Tori, before they both head out to college. Spending time together, Tori and Grant's friendliness soon turns into attraction. One that Grant is reluctant to start, because of Tori being his best bud's sister. Apparently, there is some unspoken code, against falling for your friend's sister.
Fast forward a couple months. Both Grant and Tori are now returning home for the Christmas break. Their farewell was bittersweet, and even if Grant doesn't want to admit it, he has feelings for Tori and can't wait to see her. This is where I applaud Tori, I was so surprised that she challenged Grant. More so, for herself, and her feelings, rather than what was expected or the 'norm.' She has become so obsessed with being 'ugly' and what other people think. So of course I was shocked.
It was finally happening. I was being kissed, and not by just anyone, but by Grant. Someone I had genuine feelings for. I never wanted the moment to end. His kiss melted away all the bad feelings I had about myself. It was as if every bad moment I'd ever experienced was in order to make this moment so perfect.
We didn't even come up for air. I didn't need air. Grant was my air.
Now, my heart really broke at this point. As the Christmas break is spent with family and loved ones. Grant and Tori take their friendship to the next level. Grant becomes Tori's first sexual encounter and first love. But as the holidays progress, and so does Tori and Grant's 'relationship', it soon becomes clear, that something 'BIG' is about to happen. Something, life changing.
Grant suddenly breaks it off with Tori. Claiming she is too young, and lacking life experience. Firmly believing that if they both were older, things would or could be different. Shattered! Distraught! Angry! Tori recedes into her former self. The one pre-Grant. Firmly believing that she was unwanted and unlovable, because of her looks.
As the story progresses, Tori decides to get the attraction she believes she wants. Physically, she became what she thinks every guy wants. Blond, blue-eyed bombshell with a D rack, and some serious back pains to prove it. But soon Tori realizes that the attention she once sort after, isn't all it's cracked up to be.
Throughout the years, Tori has always remembered Grant. His tender touches, the way his words made her feel appreciated and unique. The confidence she gained when she was with him Yet, it wasn't enough. Keeping a memento of Grant, a silver charm bracelet with a single cluster of pink hearts charm. A reminder not to ever be vulnerable again.
Tori always imagined meeting Grant again. But this time, she wanted him to fall head over heels for her and her new look. But when they finally met up, she felt rejected again. Twice by the same guy. This new Tori, was just a mask. She wasn't the Tori he knew and fell in love with.
This is where we're given some insight into Grant's thoughts and his reasons for breaking it off with Tori. Grant really proved to be such a selfless sweetheart. His reasons were admirable. It wasn't executed properly, but then, we wouldn't have any drama.
A serious theme within the confines of Fake Boobs. The author tried to make the story lighter by focusing on only the boobs aspect. I felt that Tori herself, was mostly unhappy She seemed to have reached a point in her life, where she thought, her experience would have been significant, especially as she was heading off to college. Mostly, it was the stigma, that affected her, I believe. Not so much peer pressure, or hearing men.. boys talk. She didn't know how to be girly. And without a doubt, she had no role models and no one to draw strength from.
"Nothing in my life has ever felt right until you."
*ARC provided by the author via NetGalley for an honest review* Thanks!
Fake Boobs, told in dual POV's, takes us on a journey of self-hate, with eighteen year old Tori Albert. Naturally, Tori has the build of a slender boy. She is also lacking one prominent aspect of being female, boobs! She is flat chested and because of Tori's boyish looks; her feelings of loneliness, peer pressure, and lack of parental support. Further compounded by listening to her brother's friends, and all their commentary about women's looks. She firmly believes, that to be noticed by the opposite sex, Tori must fall into the stereotypical 'bombshell' category. With this impression branded and deeply seated within her, Tori's insecurities and her lack of life experience, has brought her to the brink of trouble on a few occasions.
Her saving grace comes in the form of Grant. Her brother's best friend. Grant is the good guy. The All American sweetheart. After saving Tori from some unsavory situations, Grants starts to spend time with Tori, before they both head out to college. Spending time together, Tori and Grant's friendliness soon turns into attraction. One that Grant is reluctant to start, because of Tori being his best bud's sister. Apparently, there is some unspoken code, against falling for your friend's sister.
Fast forward a couple months. Both Grant and Tori are now returning home for the Christmas break. Their farewell was bittersweet, and even if Grant doesn't want to admit it, he has feelings for Tori and can't wait to see her. This is where I applaud Tori, I was so surprised that she challenged Grant. More so, for herself, and her feelings, rather than what was expected or the 'norm.' She has become so obsessed with being 'ugly' and what other people think. So of course I was shocked.
It was finally happening. I was being kissed, and not by just anyone, but by Grant. Someone I had genuine feelings for. I never wanted the moment to end. His kiss melted away all the bad feelings I had about myself. It was as if every bad moment I'd ever experienced was in order to make this moment so perfect.
We didn't even come up for air. I didn't need air. Grant was my air.
Now, my heart really broke at this point. As the Christmas break is spent with family and loved ones. Grant and Tori take their friendship to the next level. Grant becomes Tori's first sexual encounter and first love. But as the holidays progress, and so does Tori and Grant's 'relationship', it soon becomes clear, that something 'BIG' is about to happen. Something, life changing.
Grant suddenly breaks it off with Tori. Claiming she is too young, and lacking life experience. Firmly believing that if they both were older, things would or could be different. Shattered! Distraught! Angry! Tori recedes into her former self. The one pre-Grant. Firmly believing that she was unwanted and unlovable, because of her looks.
As the story progresses, Tori decides to get the attraction she believes she wants. Physically, she became what she thinks every guy wants. Blond, blue-eyed bombshell with a D rack, and some serious back pains to prove it. But soon Tori realizes that the attention she once sort after, isn't all it's cracked up to be.
Throughout the years, Tori has always remembered Grant. His tender touches, the way his words made her feel appreciated and unique. The confidence she gained when she was with him Yet, it wasn't enough. Keeping a memento of Grant, a silver charm bracelet with a single cluster of pink hearts charm. A reminder not to ever be vulnerable again.
Tori always imagined meeting Grant again. But this time, she wanted him to fall head over heels for her and her new look. But when they finally met up, she felt rejected again. Twice by the same guy. This new Tori, was just a mask. She wasn't the Tori he knew and fell in love with.
This is where we're given some insight into Grant's thoughts and his reasons for breaking it off with Tori. Grant really proved to be such a selfless sweetheart. His reasons were admirable. It wasn't executed properly, but then, we wouldn't have any drama.
A serious theme within the confines of Fake Boobs. The author tried to make the story lighter by focusing on only the boobs aspect. I felt that Tori herself, was mostly unhappy She seemed to have reached a point in her life, where she thought, her experience would have been significant, especially as she was heading off to college. Mostly, it was the stigma, that affected her, I believe. Not so much peer pressure, or hearing men.. boys talk. She didn't know how to be girly. And without a doubt, she had no role models and no one to draw strength from.
"Nothing in my life has ever felt right until you."
*ARC provided by the author via NetGalley for an honest review* Thanks!
February 16, 2015
"So what happened when our looks that we worked so hard to keep up started to go? When no matter what we did to make ourselves beautiful, it wouldn’t work? Looks gave us security now, but what about later? Would we be left with nothing?
What happened when the beauty faded? More make-up? More surgery? Was it an endless cycle of trying to hold onto an unobtainable ideal image? For who? In the end… who were we trying to please?"
This book was incredible!
Young women. Older women. Skinny, fat, short, tall, blonde, brunette, and everything in between, NEEDS to read this book.
Even at my age--and I'm no spring chicken--I still have insecurities. Major ones, actually. And reading this book, I felt so connected to Tori. She is absolutely everything I look for in a lead female character: funny, a bit quirky but most of all, strong. Of course there are times where you wanted to shake her, but at the same time, hug her. She's your best friend, your sister, your daughter. She is you, and you want nothing more than to make everything better. *sigh* Damn forever growing pains!
I'd say, definitely pick this one up for a quick, light hearted read.
What happened when the beauty faded? More make-up? More surgery? Was it an endless cycle of trying to hold onto an unobtainable ideal image? For who? In the end… who were we trying to please?"
This book was incredible!
Young women. Older women. Skinny, fat, short, tall, blonde, brunette, and everything in between, NEEDS to read this book.
Even at my age--and I'm no spring chicken--I still have insecurities. Major ones, actually. And reading this book, I felt so connected to Tori. She is absolutely everything I look for in a lead female character: funny, a bit quirky but most of all, strong. Of course there are times where you wanted to shake her, but at the same time, hug her. She's your best friend, your sister, your daughter. She is you, and you want nothing more than to make everything better. *sigh* Damn forever growing pains!
I'd say, definitely pick this one up for a quick, light hearted read.
April 12, 2015
Title: Fake Boobs
Author: Ryan Ringbloom
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Rating: 5 Stars *****
Review:
Before I go ahead and review the book, I feel there has to be an honorable mention for a part of it that for the first time in a very long time drew me to it to begin with.
The title. People choose books based on awesome covers, the authors name because they happen to be a fan of them, and the blurb is written so well that it draws you in and makes you want to know more. Up until this point, I’ve read all of the author’s books, and reviewed them, and I’m a fan of the writing style and the unique and original stories within, and her covers are beautiful BUT I’ve never been drawn in by a title before and that happened here. What a chance she took naming the book this way, but as you’ll see when you read it, it fits and it fits perfectly.
Now on to what made this book a 5 star read for me.
Self Esteem and insecurities, especially in women (though I’m well aware it happens just as much with men, just not as documented), is a very real thing. It’s something we all face on a daily basis no matter what age we are. Often times in some people, it’s even harder because they come from circumstances that instead of promoting healthy self-esteem, it’s the opposite, or they’re just plain ignored and left to figure out the mind field that is loving oneself on their own. The author tackles the subject here, and in a very real and organic way, through the eyes of main character Tori.
When you tackle a big subject in writing, you’ve got to do so in a way that makes the reader connect and sympathize, otherwise it won’t work. For me, the author did that here. Tori came across very real to me. Why she felt the way she did about herself, the lengths she would go later down the line to try and fix what she thought were her flaws, and the journey she had to take, both alone and with Grant to come out the other side of it, healthier and better than ever. Had Tori not been written the way she was, had you not been able to see inside her head and understand her motivations this would have fallen flat, but it didn’t. There was a perfect progression of growth here and I loved every second of it.
Enter Grant. A character that at times, I loved, and I do mean loved because he seemed like the only guy of her brother’s friends that wasn’t a complete asshat, but that in other instances, I wanted to smack the crap out of. He makes a decision on his own, early in the story and I just couldn’t get behind it. It seemed weak, but that’s because I’m not him. I’m not supposed to like that choice he made and what it did to Tori, but what I did like about it happening is that it was the catalyst for what would be the journey Tori took and the full circle like ending that came about, for both of them. Without Grant acting like that asshat I mentioned above, their story would have been a whole lot different, and that would have sucked. It also gave the author the chance to do what she does almost better than anyone else I know (myself included) and redeem Grant of his past mistakes.
Tori’s brother, her best friend and his friends. All played their parts well in this and in the case of her best friend and her brother, had their own coming of age within the pages as well. There was growth all around here, and that’s what makes a book phenomenal, at least for this reader. It was the ultimate payoff.
Pacing was brilliant. Story flowed easily and there were no moments I felt as though it moved too fast and I was missing things, or it dragged and I just wished it would end. I love stories that flow so smoothly that it’s over before you even realize it. I also enjoyed getting to see things from both points of view here. Especially the jaunt into the past that the author gave us through Grant’s eyes over a certain time period. That was a brilliant addition and again, if it had not been there, I might not have come out feeling the same about Grant. I needed that to connect and I’m overjoyed that I got it.
Tackling heavy subject matter, characters I felt for and believed in and wanted a happy ending for, brilliant pacing that almost seemed flawless and an end being reached that felt just as real as the subject tackled in the book. Check, Check, and Check. Ryan Ringbloom, you nailed it all and gave me one hell of a story to devour in the process.
Fantastic Read!
March 5, 2015
4.25 Low Esteem Theatre Stars
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Implants. Liposuction. Botox. Spanx. We live a make yourself over world. I feel so behind the times. I only have one of those four. Thank you Spanx.
Tori has some pretty low self esteem. She is bummed that she is 18 and has no curves. Her brother's cute friends just see her as a little girl. She is ready to change that. She does some pretty stupid things because she wants to prove she is big girl now.
Grant is one of the friends. He notices Tori. He notices that the other guys are noticing and her brother, Jim, isn't paying any attention. Someone needs to be paying attention to who is paying attention to Tori.
Grant and Tori become "friends" of a fashion. She has a total crush on him, but what are his feelings toward her?
I wish...I wish there was a season three.
Grant and Tori go there separate ways. Off to college. Tori finds a roomie who changes her. She needed some changing...but OMG. That is a lot of changing. A lot of silicone.
Does Grant feel anything for Tori? Is Tori the sweet girl we thought she was or has she really turned over a new, plastic leaf? There are so many reasons for Grant to stay away. Distance. His friendship with Joe. The age difference. And Tori, no one was paying attention when she was 18. Now she gets lots of attention, but not from her family. And not the good kind of attention.
There is lots of back and forth here. Lots of life changes. As life usually goes.
"I'm sure." I was so unsure it was frightening.
I enjoyed this one. It was my first Ryan Ringbloom. It was funny, true to life, fast paced and full of conflict. Just the right make over I needed. The book kind.
Implants. Liposuction. Botox. Spanx. We live a make yourself over world. I feel so behind the times. I only have one of those four. Thank you Spanx.
Tori has some pretty low self esteem. She is bummed that she is 18 and has no curves. Her brother's cute friends just see her as a little girl. She is ready to change that. She does some pretty stupid things because she wants to prove she is big girl now.
Grant is one of the friends. He notices Tori. He notices that the other guys are noticing and her brother, Jim, isn't paying any attention. Someone needs to be paying attention to who is paying attention to Tori.
Grant and Tori become "friends" of a fashion. She has a total crush on him, but what are his feelings toward her?
I wish...I wish there was a season three.
Grant and Tori go there separate ways. Off to college. Tori finds a roomie who changes her. She needed some changing...but OMG. That is a lot of changing. A lot of silicone.
Does Grant feel anything for Tori? Is Tori the sweet girl we thought she was or has she really turned over a new, plastic leaf? There are so many reasons for Grant to stay away. Distance. His friendship with Joe. The age difference. And Tori, no one was paying attention when she was 18. Now she gets lots of attention, but not from her family. And not the good kind of attention.
There is lots of back and forth here. Lots of life changes. As life usually goes.
"I'm sure." I was so unsure it was frightening.
I enjoyed this one. It was my first Ryan Ringbloom. It was funny, true to life, fast paced and full of conflict. Just the right make over I needed. The book kind.
March 2, 2015
It was not for me.
Too much self loathing. She does not love herself, at all. Tori does not believe others when told she is beautiful. Maybe I never had that problem because I did not care what other thought of me (I'm more the "your loss" type and "take it or leave it") and that's why I could not relate with her...
I understand some people might feel unsecure and I don't have anything at all against fake boobs but I expect ... I don't know, some journey and evolution from a character. It did happen but so late I was desperate.
And Grant was a coward. Yes, I know he did not want to seduce his friend's sister but trying to do the "right" thing he was not man enough for me (always my love for Alpha male).
It was too depressing and self destructive for my taste.
But maybe other readers would like it, I'm only a "one person" opinion.
Too much self loathing. She does not love herself, at all. Tori does not believe others when told she is beautiful. Maybe I never had that problem because I did not care what other thought of me (I'm more the "your loss" type and "take it or leave it") and that's why I could not relate with her...
I understand some people might feel unsecure and I don't have anything at all against fake boobs but I expect ... I don't know, some journey and evolution from a character. It did happen but so late I was desperate.
And Grant was a coward. Yes, I know he did not want to seduce his friend's sister but trying to do the "right" thing he was not man enough for me (always my love for Alpha male).
It was too depressing and self destructive for my taste.
But maybe other readers would like it, I'm only a "one person" opinion.
February 12, 2015
10 Amazing Stars
This book was given to me for my honest review by the author.
We have all heard the saying “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” at some point in our lives but if you really stop to think about what the saying means we can look deeper. Looking into ones eyes we can see beauty, honesty, flare, sadness, hope but we can also see smiles. Smiles are what our eyes do when we smile within ourselves they bring out such an emotion within our souls that smiling in itself could not do ourselves justice. Our eyes twinkle with happiness and joy that brings the smile out within.
Tori-pretty, smart and a bit insecure
Grant-hunky, smart and a bit reserved
Tori is a girl that has grown into a beautiful smart woman. She has always thought that the past would not dictate her future and that change is evident. But what happens when the past actually does dictate your future and knowing that change may or may not be the best for you? Tori has been on this mission that no one would feel what she feels but one day a friend appears from out of the shadows that makes her feel that beauty is in his eyes. Will she accept his eyes that truly hold the truth or will she run and transform all that she knows? Will she let the future dictate the past or will she forge on to see what they both have held within each other for so long?
Grant is a guy that has been friends with Tori’s brother since childhood but as they become distant and Tori comes into light will Grant be able to hold his tongue or will he take the leap that he has wanted to take for so long? He is hunky, cute and adorable too. He has what every woman wants but there has only been one that has held his heart truly since the beginning. Will Grant take the undeniable leap or will he fall short?
Tori and Grant’s journey is fun and exciting. As college comes near for Tori and Grant decisions that have been made only make this couples relationship become a worry zone. Grant knows that Tori needs to make the best of her college years but when they come together in the bedroom for the first time explosions and fireworks rocket throughout making his decision even harder. So the question will remain does this couple make it to their forever or will they part their ways and become a rocket that fizzles in the night? This is their amazing rocket journey. Will true love be able to stand the test of time or will they clash and fizzle in the night?
To the author: You have taken Tori and Grant to new heights you have shown that anything is possible even if two hearts separate. You have taken this reviewer on an emotional rollercoaster with word one till the last and final word of this amazing read. Dreams and wishes are out there for all of us but the silence of ones words truly becomes the wisdom we all will cherish. Kudos
To the readers: Just embrace this amazing read
Happy Reading
This book was given to me for my honest review by the author.
We have all heard the saying “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” at some point in our lives but if you really stop to think about what the saying means we can look deeper. Looking into ones eyes we can see beauty, honesty, flare, sadness, hope but we can also see smiles. Smiles are what our eyes do when we smile within ourselves they bring out such an emotion within our souls that smiling in itself could not do ourselves justice. Our eyes twinkle with happiness and joy that brings the smile out within.
Tori-pretty, smart and a bit insecure
Grant-hunky, smart and a bit reserved
Tori is a girl that has grown into a beautiful smart woman. She has always thought that the past would not dictate her future and that change is evident. But what happens when the past actually does dictate your future and knowing that change may or may not be the best for you? Tori has been on this mission that no one would feel what she feels but one day a friend appears from out of the shadows that makes her feel that beauty is in his eyes. Will she accept his eyes that truly hold the truth or will she run and transform all that she knows? Will she let the future dictate the past or will she forge on to see what they both have held within each other for so long?
Grant is a guy that has been friends with Tori’s brother since childhood but as they become distant and Tori comes into light will Grant be able to hold his tongue or will he take the leap that he has wanted to take for so long? He is hunky, cute and adorable too. He has what every woman wants but there has only been one that has held his heart truly since the beginning. Will Grant take the undeniable leap or will he fall short?
Tori and Grant’s journey is fun and exciting. As college comes near for Tori and Grant decisions that have been made only make this couples relationship become a worry zone. Grant knows that Tori needs to make the best of her college years but when they come together in the bedroom for the first time explosions and fireworks rocket throughout making his decision even harder. So the question will remain does this couple make it to their forever or will they part their ways and become a rocket that fizzles in the night? This is their amazing rocket journey. Will true love be able to stand the test of time or will they clash and fizzle in the night?
To the author: You have taken Tori and Grant to new heights you have shown that anything is possible even if two hearts separate. You have taken this reviewer on an emotional rollercoaster with word one till the last and final word of this amazing read. Dreams and wishes are out there for all of us but the silence of ones words truly becomes the wisdom we all will cherish. Kudos
To the readers: Just embrace this amazing read
Happy Reading
March 4, 2015
Asked to read for honest review
We all have things we don't like about our bodies. We all worry about how our looks will fade as we get older.
Well Tori is no different she is they typical 18 yr girl with insecurities of her own. She feels no boy will like her, because as she sees her self, because she is not pretty.
There is Grant Tori's brothers best friend. he likes tori but she is off limits. After everyone but himself and Tori head off to college they hang out. Things happen and Tori feels reject. Grant feels guilty for betraying his best friend.
Tori goes off to college and her visits home get fewer. She has some maintenance done. She thinks this will make her feel better about herself and look prettier.
But will this make her happy? Will she feel pretty? She has to learn the hard way as most of us do.
This is a great book for teenagers, adults of all ages. it gives you a new look on how you feel about yourself and how your love ones see you.
I am very glad I have read this book.
We all have things we don't like about our bodies. We all worry about how our looks will fade as we get older.
Well Tori is no different she is they typical 18 yr girl with insecurities of her own. She feels no boy will like her, because as she sees her self, because she is not pretty.
There is Grant Tori's brothers best friend. he likes tori but she is off limits. After everyone but himself and Tori head off to college they hang out. Things happen and Tori feels reject. Grant feels guilty for betraying his best friend.
Tori goes off to college and her visits home get fewer. She has some maintenance done. She thinks this will make her feel better about herself and look prettier.
But will this make her happy? Will she feel pretty? She has to learn the hard way as most of us do.
This is a great book for teenagers, adults of all ages. it gives you a new look on how you feel about yourself and how your love ones see you.
I am very glad I have read this book.
March 23, 2015
This is a story about growning up. This is a story about imperfect people and how they learn to live with their lack of perfection.
Tori is eighteen but she isn't confident. She hates everything about herself and in return, her awkwardness is making others look at her differently. This is a book about how looks can determine happiness. This is a story about how people should just accept who they are. Beauty is not always the answer to life's happiness. Everything that matters is in the heart and this book gives us a subtle lesson about love and joy. Happiness can be found in the choices we make, when they are bad and not for us, these choices can make us miserable.
Tori makes a lot of mistakes in this book, she acts superficially at times but I think Grant, our male hero, is there to anchor her.
This is a very emotional book and a quite easy read. I thouroughly enjoyed it.
4 Stars from me.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tori is eighteen but she isn't confident. She hates everything about herself and in return, her awkwardness is making others look at her differently. This is a book about how looks can determine happiness. This is a story about how people should just accept who they are. Beauty is not always the answer to life's happiness. Everything that matters is in the heart and this book gives us a subtle lesson about love and joy. Happiness can be found in the choices we make, when they are bad and not for us, these choices can make us miserable.
Tori makes a lot of mistakes in this book, she acts superficially at times but I think Grant, our male hero, is there to anchor her.
This is a very emotional book and a quite easy read. I thouroughly enjoyed it.
4 Stars from me.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2015
ARC provided by author in agreement of a honest review.
Ryan Ringbloom steals the spotlight once again with this amazing and beyond stunning novel that will have you relating, giggling and reaching for the tissues! I fell instantly in love with Fake Boobs as author Ryan Ringbloom weaved an intricate story about one girls struggle to be the perfect idea girl that any man would notice and the boy who has always noticed her, even when she believed no one ever could. Beautifully written, Ryan knows how to bring a tale to life! Tori and Grant will have you on the edge of your seat, rooting for a happily ever after all the way to the very end. This book will not disappoint!
Ryan Ringbloom steals the spotlight once again with this amazing and beyond stunning novel that will have you relating, giggling and reaching for the tissues! I fell instantly in love with Fake Boobs as author Ryan Ringbloom weaved an intricate story about one girls struggle to be the perfect idea girl that any man would notice and the boy who has always noticed her, even when she believed no one ever could. Beautifully written, Ryan knows how to bring a tale to life! Tori and Grant will have you on the edge of your seat, rooting for a happily ever after all the way to the very end. This book will not disappoint!
March 16, 2015
** I Love Story Time was gifted an ARC in exchange of an honest review **
4 Stars!
OMG! I can't stop laughing at how funny this book was! I really enjoyed it! It was definitely a cute, easy read, and there is nothing wrong with that! I loved Grant. He was really the sweetest guy. I loved that Grant and Tori's relationship started off as friends. Even though they both wanted more, Grant knew he had to take things slowly. I liked that they would meet up and watch their TV shows on Netftlex together. I really wish I knew what they were watching! LOL. What I loved the most about that, was what Grant told Tori when the season was over....
"Tori, I really wish."
"What do you wish. Grant?"
"I wish... I wish there was a season three."
Those words made me fall in love with Grant. He knew his time with Tori was coming to an end and wished for another season so he would have more time with her. Grant warmed my heart throughout this story. I liked that he knew what he wanted and didn't hold back getting it.
As for Tori, I liked her character, but at times I felt so bad for her. The rude things that people would say to her broke my heart. She was so lost, and no matter what she did she never found what she was looking for. I just can't imagine feeling the way she did about herself and then have it thrown in her face. As for Brendan...what a dick!! I can't believe what he said to her at the copy shop. I wish she had a hot cup of coffee to throw in his face! Then, when she broke down to her brother, Jim, I cried along with her. This poor girl finally let everything out. Tori continued to struggle with fitting in until she starts getting tips from her new college roommate, Kenna.
Kenna was too funny. The things she would say cracked me up! I did like Kenna and her sassy self, but she may have not been the best remodel for Tori. In the end, I think they both helped each other become a better person. Another character I liked was Jeanie. She was sweet and I liked that she always tried to include Tori in her plans. The whole Thanksgiving scene was hilarious! I couldn't stop laughing at Jeanie. I think she drank a whole bottle of wine within 10 minutes! My favorite part was.....
"Jeanie picked up her glass and sipped. There is no way I am ever hosting Thanksgiving again.' She sat back in her seat and sulked. 'And why the heck did you throw away that pie?"
I can totally picture that whole scene and Jeanie being all drunk and slurry! LOL. That was great! Another great part was the epilogue. Again, I couldn't stop laughing. I think because it reminded me of the conversations that I would have with my sisters about how our bodies "use to be" and also talking about "man boobs". LOL. That was another classic moment!
As you can tell, I really enjoyed Fake Boobs. It is the perfect book to pick up if you're looking for an easy, funny as heck, light read! I loved that everything came full circle and that it ended with a happily ever after.
~Juls
March 18, 2015
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Fake Boobs is a standalone new adult contemporary. And before we even get started, yes it is about fake boobs, but it is really about the larger picture of self esteem issues. I went back and forth with this book a little bit. There were a lot of things that I liked about the book, Fake Boobs, but there were a few things that rubbed me the wrong way. And not just about the main character, Tori. After I was done reading I sat back and tried to sort out my thoughts on the book and I kept coming back to the same thing, that the positive outweighed my annoyances.
So let's talk about the positive. I really liked Grant and Tori together. I liked the big picture of their relationship. I was very happy with the way everything left off, and I was happy that Grant wouldn't put up with Tori's nonsense, and at the same time he was more there for her than anyone else in her life was. I thought that Tori's journey was relate able and no matter how misguided she may have been, it was something that I think a lot of young women and teens would benefit from reading about. Sure, she had a very distorted view of herself and she made lots and lots of bad decisions, and she bugged me multiple times but it was all a part of her self discovery and self growth. She bugged me in the moment, but when I stepped back I found that I actually liked Tori quite a lot. And I loved that the story switched from her point of view to Grant's about half way through the book. I wasn't expecting that at all, but the events kind of rewound and were retold through his eyes. I thought it was a great writing technique for this story.
And now for my annoyances. I just said that Tori did a lot of stupid things and she was really misguided, and yes that bugged me but that annoyance was actually very fleeting and minimal. A big annoyance came from Grant. And I loved Grant, but he did what I hate a character (or anyone) doing. He decided what he thought was best for someone else and he just unilaterally made that decision. I can't tell you how much this grates on my nerves. Just sit down and talk to the other person instead of doing what you think they need. It wasn't Grant's decision to make, and like always it was wrong and royally messed things up. But like I said, it is a pet peeve of mine so that is probably why I rubbed me the wrong way.
Fake Boobs is the story of Tori and Grant just as much as it is the story of Tori's personal growth and becoming ok with who she was. It worked well as a standalone and the story felt well developed and complete. So yes, Fake Boobs is about Fake Boobs, but it's also more than that. I think it is worth a read.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Fake Boobs is a standalone new adult contemporary. And before we even get started, yes it is about fake boobs, but it is really about the larger picture of self esteem issues. I went back and forth with this book a little bit. There were a lot of things that I liked about the book, Fake Boobs, but there were a few things that rubbed me the wrong way. And not just about the main character, Tori. After I was done reading I sat back and tried to sort out my thoughts on the book and I kept coming back to the same thing, that the positive outweighed my annoyances.
So let's talk about the positive. I really liked Grant and Tori together. I liked the big picture of their relationship. I was very happy with the way everything left off, and I was happy that Grant wouldn't put up with Tori's nonsense, and at the same time he was more there for her than anyone else in her life was. I thought that Tori's journey was relate able and no matter how misguided she may have been, it was something that I think a lot of young women and teens would benefit from reading about. Sure, she had a very distorted view of herself and she made lots and lots of bad decisions, and she bugged me multiple times but it was all a part of her self discovery and self growth. She bugged me in the moment, but when I stepped back I found that I actually liked Tori quite a lot. And I loved that the story switched from her point of view to Grant's about half way through the book. I wasn't expecting that at all, but the events kind of rewound and were retold through his eyes. I thought it was a great writing technique for this story.
And now for my annoyances. I just said that Tori did a lot of stupid things and she was really misguided, and yes that bugged me but that annoyance was actually very fleeting and minimal. A big annoyance came from Grant. And I loved Grant, but he did what I hate a character (or anyone) doing. He decided what he thought was best for someone else and he just unilaterally made that decision. I can't tell you how much this grates on my nerves. Just sit down and talk to the other person instead of doing what you think they need. It wasn't Grant's decision to make, and like always it was wrong and royally messed things up. But like I said, it is a pet peeve of mine so that is probably why I rubbed me the wrong way.
Fake Boobs is the story of Tori and Grant just as much as it is the story of Tori's personal growth and becoming ok with who she was. It worked well as a standalone and the story felt well developed and complete. So yes, Fake Boobs is about Fake Boobs, but it's also more than that. I think it is worth a read.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
March 8, 2015
Well well well...where do I begin.
I had the privilege of reading this book from its beginning stages and watch it bloom into a wonderful story that I absolutely could NOT put down. Ryan Ringbloom really has a way of sucking you into her world until you are right beside her characters, crying every tear, feeling every heartache and swooning along with them. This book really blew me away. I have always been a fan of this author but after reading this book, I worship the ground she walks on and I am not ashamed to admit it. Fake Boobs falls - somewhat - under a forbidden love category as it is about a girl who has a crush on her brothers best friend and all the obstacles they face just to be together all the while Tori (the heroine) is struggling with insecurities of her own. And no don't worry, she is not one of those dumb girls that don't have a backbone. Oh no...her issues are very realistic. Will have people remembering themselves at that age. Don't even get me started on Grant. It took me a while to stop talking about him and I don't want to drive myself crazy over him again. There is only one thing I can say. I MUST say....He is my book boyfriend. You hear me ladies? MINE !!!!!!
THE WHOLE TIME, I WAS LIKE:
AFTERWARDS:
THEN:
AND:
SOME OF THIS:
AND FINALLY:
Overall, I ADORED this book and I can't wait to read it again once it's published <3
I had the privilege of reading this book from its beginning stages and watch it bloom into a wonderful story that I absolutely could NOT put down. Ryan Ringbloom really has a way of sucking you into her world until you are right beside her characters, crying every tear, feeling every heartache and swooning along with them. This book really blew me away. I have always been a fan of this author but after reading this book, I worship the ground she walks on and I am not ashamed to admit it. Fake Boobs falls - somewhat - under a forbidden love category as it is about a girl who has a crush on her brothers best friend and all the obstacles they face just to be together all the while Tori (the heroine) is struggling with insecurities of her own. And no don't worry, she is not one of those dumb girls that don't have a backbone. Oh no...her issues are very realistic. Will have people remembering themselves at that age. Don't even get me started on Grant. It took me a while to stop talking about him and I don't want to drive myself crazy over him again. There is only one thing I can say. I MUST say....He is my book boyfriend. You hear me ladies? MINE !!!!!!
THE WHOLE TIME, I WAS LIKE:
AFTERWARDS:
THEN:
AND:
SOME OF THIS:
AND FINALLY:
Overall, I ADORED this book and I can't wait to read it again once it's published <3
February 22, 2015
*Independent reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock*
4 fangs
Tori is a wallflower coming of legal age with absolutely no life experience or romantic experience. She has always been in her older brother's shadow and none of his friends have ever paid her any mind, or so she thought. One night because everyone leaves for college, Jim has a party with the guys and a friend, Kyle, sneaks to her room. Fortunately his plans of getting laid are thwarted by Grant. Tori is upset because she knew Kyle didn't care for her, but she really wanted something to happen before college. Grant interrupts yet another guy trying to take advantage of her and she leaves for school completely naïve with no experience with boys. Her college roommate is a bombshell, or so Tori thinks. After an awful winter break, Keena takes the reigns and remakes Tori in her image. And a new image it is. She totally shocks her whole family and no one is pleased with her. After four years, she finally runs into Grant, but it's not the reunion she was hoping for. After all she had done and thought she had confidence, it's all questioned in just a few minutes. Now Tori needs to figure out who she really is and what she wants out of life. Have all these changes made her a better person or has she become something she never wanted to be?
4 fangs
Tori is a wallflower coming of legal age with absolutely no life experience or romantic experience. She has always been in her older brother's shadow and none of his friends have ever paid her any mind, or so she thought. One night because everyone leaves for college, Jim has a party with the guys and a friend, Kyle, sneaks to her room. Fortunately his plans of getting laid are thwarted by Grant. Tori is upset because she knew Kyle didn't care for her, but she really wanted something to happen before college. Grant interrupts yet another guy trying to take advantage of her and she leaves for school completely naïve with no experience with boys. Her college roommate is a bombshell, or so Tori thinks. After an awful winter break, Keena takes the reigns and remakes Tori in her image. And a new image it is. She totally shocks her whole family and no one is pleased with her. After four years, she finally runs into Grant, but it's not the reunion she was hoping for. After all she had done and thought she had confidence, it's all questioned in just a few minutes. Now Tori needs to figure out who she really is and what she wants out of life. Have all these changes made her a better person or has she become something she never wanted to be?
February 16, 2015
I always like to read books by Ryan Ringbloom. They are funny and a little angsty. This book has both Grant and Tori's POV. Grant is Tori's brother's best friend. Tori is the little sister with poor self esteem because she's thin, flat chested, brown hair and brown eyes. She feels like a plain jane compared to all of her friends. She has graduated high school and never been kissed. Her brother's friends have never looked twice at her since she's always been the tag along sister that is 3 years younger. Tori is desperate to have some attention for a guy and starts making poor choices. Grant steps in, at first, to try to warn Tori to be careful before she heads off to college. As they get to know each other, feelings develop and misunderstandings ensue. We see how far Tori will go to get noticed and gain some confidence with males. Loved this story and enjoyed seeing what was going on in Grant's head.
February 11, 2015
I received this arc for my honest review
I really loved this book. I could relate to Tori. I was that girl with a brother four years older and knows what it feels like to be in the background and have no self confidence.
The book is in two parts Tori's side and Grants side.
On Tori is a typical teenage girl that struggles with her body image and what others may think of her. She does all she can to improve what she looks like on the outside in hopes it changes how she feels on the inside. She keeps falling for boys but never feels like she is loved for who she is.
Grand side you can see that he is a great guy and has the best intentions but he doesn't always go about showing his true feelings in the best way. He keeps sacrificing his own happiness for what he thinks is the right thing to do.
I really loved this book. I could relate to Tori. I was that girl with a brother four years older and knows what it feels like to be in the background and have no self confidence.
The book is in two parts Tori's side and Grants side.
On Tori is a typical teenage girl that struggles with her body image and what others may think of her. She does all she can to improve what she looks like on the outside in hopes it changes how she feels on the inside. She keeps falling for boys but never feels like she is loved for who she is.
Grand side you can see that he is a great guy and has the best intentions but he doesn't always go about showing his true feelings in the best way. He keeps sacrificing his own happiness for what he thinks is the right thing to do.
April 24, 2015
This was a pretty good book.
I enjoyed the characters, the story, the every day life challenges that people face. I adored Grant. He was just awesome!!!!
I felt for Tori. She just wanted to fit in so bad she didn't care what it took; when all she had to do was be herself!!!
Great book.
I enjoyed the characters, the story, the every day life challenges that people face. I adored Grant. He was just awesome!!!!
I felt for Tori. She just wanted to fit in so bad she didn't care what it took; when all she had to do was be herself!!!
Great book.
March 12, 2015
I think the title of this book was a little titillating. Be happy with yourself and people will gravitate towards you.
March 29, 2015
Change is the only permanent thing in the world, but not all change is good.
I have loved Ryan Ringbloom’s novel ever since I got my hands on her Flaw series. But Fake Boobs is different.
It’s a story of a girl with so much esteem problem I wanted to go inside the novel and give her a mirror. I hated that the people around Tori affirmed her thoughts about herself. It didn’t help at all. At eighteen, she had zero confidence, no love life, no experience at all. She settled with being in the background, craving a little attention – and it makes her a little vulnerable to advances.
Grant is a great guy – he was a knight in shining armor, only if he was brave enough to fight for his feelings rather than running away. He likes her, he wanted to be with her – but she’s young and inexperienced. He didn’t want to break the bro-code. But he did, and it was probably the best thing that ever happened to him, to them.
Something happened though, that made him rethink his decision. The best thing to do is to just turn around and walk away – only that it was probably the worst thing he did. It sealed the coffin to her confidence.
Years later, she was back. She was very different, she had gained confidence – but why isn’t she happy? Meeting Grant along the way, she thought she was ready to throw the new her into his face. What she didn’t expect was to be caught off-guard with her feelings for him still.
The bracelet he gave her was still on her wrist, it had given Grant a sense of hope. He wanted her in his life again – with or without the change. He didn’t like the new Tori too much, he prefers the old one who keeps on popping up every now and then in the most unexpected circumstances.
Overall, the novel was great – but that tiny part where I get to be inside Grant’s mind and realize I had a flashback of the previous scene. It would have been grand if the story continued in an alternate POV – that way it would have been told flawlessly.
Real love will look through your imperfections. It accepts your shortcomings, and love you for everything that you are. Perhaps, Grant isn’t just good with words, and Tori had cemented an opinion of herself. It took a while, and a whole lot of changes before they realize their mistakes. I was glad it wasn’t too late. Yep, there were some road blocks along the way, a string of heartbreaks and blow to the self-esteem, but the ending was totally perfect.
Review originally posted on my blog
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March 31, 2015
This is a book everyone with a daughter should read and have them read. If you are a big brother this is a book not only for you to read but your sister as well. The book has a very powerful message to convey and it does it beautifully. Here Tori is the young sister of Jim. She is a wallflower. Others overlook her and she feels ugly. she thinks she is nothing because she doesn’t have a chest or curves. Her parents ignore her and her brother doesn’t really spend time with her as well. She goes off to college with a broken heart and eventually allows her roommate to transform her into a carbon copy of everyone else. Along the way into becoming the blond haired blue eyed beauty she loses herself. She gets caught up in beauty that she forgets what is important. She becomes superficial. She dates men so she can have control and only ones who want her for her looks are datable. If they try for more they are out the door. She is more a inflatable doll than a person. She cannot see beyond what is in the mirror. grant is Jim’s best friend and such a genuinely nice guy. He crushes on Tori. But not the new tori. He loved the vivacious and genuine tori. The one who was uniquely beautiful and not artificial. The tori that didn’t see just what others wanted her to be for beautiful. He saw all of her. He makes a bad decision one night based on good intentions. He was confused as well. He wasn’t sure how Tori felt so he walked away hoping she would figure out what love was. Little did he know she was in love with him. For years he disappeared and than one night he sees the new her and isn’t impressed. Tori takes this as a second rejection and lowers her standards on men even further. His rejection was because of how fake she was. Tori’s genuine personality was replaced with flirtatious airy vain Tori and this didn’t make Grant happy. He still loved her but was having a hard time with the new Tori. To try to help her after he couldn’t get her mind off of her he tries to make ameds with Tori’s brother. Jim was a genuinely good guy but was a little self absorbed. It wasn’t until it was too late did he truly get his head out of the clouds. It was something he said to Grant that had Grant walk away from Tori and everyone. Only Grant could help thaw out Tori and have her see that beauty isn’t everything. Keeping up appearances that others define as beautiful isn’t all there is. Beauty is the whole package and not always blonde haired, blue eyed with a chest. Sometimes it is the air about you combined with a underappreciated grace and beauty that is attractive. Once Grant gets through to Tori she doesn’t like what she hears and sees and almost loses Grant. When they work things out you see a new tori. The old tori emerges with love for herself for the journey to see what beauty is and what love can do has been completed and she finds that beauty isn’t just the superficial looks or looks themselves but the whole package. A emotionally powerful and wonderfully written book on self esteem, confidence and not seeing just what is on the outside. About loving yourself and trusting in who you are and not what others think you should be.
March 6, 2015
My 5 Star Review:
Fake Boobs by Ryan Ringbloom had my interest peaked; I wasn’t really sure what a story with that title would be about. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed at all. One of Fake Boobs’ main characters is Tori. She is an innocent 18 year old virgin. She thinks that she is not pretty at all. She has brown hair and barely any breasts. Since her 22 year old brother has been seriously dating his girlfriend, Tori has been hanging out with her brother and his friends to keep her company. One night when her brother is out of the room, Tori overhears her brother’s friends talking about her. She is not surprised by what she hears them say about her; she knows that she is not anyone’s type that what she has heard just solidifies it. Earlier that same morning, one of her brother’s friends comes up to Tori’s room and tries to seduce her. Not having any experience with males, Tori practically throws herself at him but is caught by one of her brother’s other friend, Grant.
Grant takes it upon himself to “save” Tori. They begin to hang out and Grant finds himself enthralled with Tori. The time comes for Grant to leave to return to college and both her and Tori decide that their attraction is nothing more than one innocent kiss. But when Grant returns for Winter Break, he decides that he can’t stay away from Tori. Tori begins to sneak off to be with Grant without her parents or older brother’s knowledge. After Grant hears Tori’s older brother complaining about the fact that one of his other friends tried to go after his little sister, Grant decides to back off. Little did Grant know, this would have a devastating effect on Tori and her self-esteem just when she was beginning to feel beautiful and desirable.
Fake Boobs is a story about first love as well as lasting love. There were parts in the book that literally made me cry. Who of us ladies out there have not felt beautiful or very good about themselves at least one time? At the time, the reader doesn’t know for sure why Grant suddenly turns cold on Tori but we find out later in the book. At least at that point, I didn’t want to kick his ass anymore. This book ends with a HEA ending which I loved. I thought the story was relatable too and well written. And trust me, after you read the book, you will definitely understand the title and its meaning to the overall story.
Fake Boobs by Ryan Ringbloom had my interest peaked; I wasn’t really sure what a story with that title would be about. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed at all. One of Fake Boobs’ main characters is Tori. She is an innocent 18 year old virgin. She thinks that she is not pretty at all. She has brown hair and barely any breasts. Since her 22 year old brother has been seriously dating his girlfriend, Tori has been hanging out with her brother and his friends to keep her company. One night when her brother is out of the room, Tori overhears her brother’s friends talking about her. She is not surprised by what she hears them say about her; she knows that she is not anyone’s type that what she has heard just solidifies it. Earlier that same morning, one of her brother’s friends comes up to Tori’s room and tries to seduce her. Not having any experience with males, Tori practically throws herself at him but is caught by one of her brother’s other friend, Grant.
Grant takes it upon himself to “save” Tori. They begin to hang out and Grant finds himself enthralled with Tori. The time comes for Grant to leave to return to college and both her and Tori decide that their attraction is nothing more than one innocent kiss. But when Grant returns for Winter Break, he decides that he can’t stay away from Tori. Tori begins to sneak off to be with Grant without her parents or older brother’s knowledge. After Grant hears Tori’s older brother complaining about the fact that one of his other friends tried to go after his little sister, Grant decides to back off. Little did Grant know, this would have a devastating effect on Tori and her self-esteem just when she was beginning to feel beautiful and desirable.
Fake Boobs is a story about first love as well as lasting love. There were parts in the book that literally made me cry. Who of us ladies out there have not felt beautiful or very good about themselves at least one time? At the time, the reader doesn’t know for sure why Grant suddenly turns cold on Tori but we find out later in the book. At least at that point, I didn’t want to kick his ass anymore. This book ends with a HEA ending which I loved. I thought the story was relatable too and well written. And trust me, after you read the book, you will definitely understand the title and its meaning to the overall story.
March 19, 2015
I liked this book; I will say that it was hard to read at certain parts though. That is more a personal thing though. Tori has very low self-esteem and self-worth. She grew up almost forgotten by her parents. Her older brother Jim of course doesn’t want her hanging out with his friends. Tori believes that she isn’t pretty and therefore should just be happy with whoever wants her even if it is just to use her. She needs life experience but with the right kind of people. Grant is one of her brother’s best friends. Grant notices that others are noticing Tori because he is noticing her too. She isn’t just Jim’s little sister anymore, she is growing into a beautiful young woman. He is torn between his feeling for her and his loyalty to Jim. Grant sees Tori and beautiful but she doesn’t see it herself. Everyone tells her see doesn’t have anything to worry about because see is skinny but see doesn’t have any boobs. To her that is a big deal. That is all guys really care about. Tori thinks she needs to look like a cookie cutter Barbie doll to really be happy, she has no idea how beautiful she really is all on her own. At times I wanted to jump in the book and just shake Tori, sometimes Grant too. Even saying that I do feel that Tori needed to go through those things in order to really find her self-worth in the end. She couldn’t really appreciate love from someone else until she learned to love herself. Grant also needed to grow. He needed to learn how to help Tori see she didn’t need to be any different to be loved, that he would love her no matter what. Grant could have said or done somethings different but he was young himself. This book has a great moral standing and points out the pressure girls but on each other not just the media influence on them. Things could have been different for Tori if she had more family support, different friends. She just needed confidence in herself really. I look forward to reading other books from this author. I would even enjoy reading more about the characters in this book not just more about Tori and Grant.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
March 27, 2015
Eighteen year old Tori Albert has low self-esteem and lacks self confidence when it comes to her appearance. But there is one person who likes Tori for herself ... Grant Donovan is Tori's older brother Jim's best friend. Tori and Grant strike up a friendship, and when feelings start to develop between them, Grant gets spooked and walks away leaving Tori with a broken heart. Tori becomes so obsessed with her looks that she decides to completely change her appearance (fake boobs, new clothes, etc) ... but her new self confidence only lasts so long ...
Author Ryan Ringbloom weaves an interesting and enjoyable new adult tale that delves into the issues of self confidence, self esteem, struggling with self body image, and wanting desperately to fit in. These are all issues that young people can relate to when it comes to how they view their body, appearance, and attractiveness among their peers.
The story is told in the perspective of both Tori and Grant, and as the reader follows their journey, you can't help but feel empathy for these young people as they struggle to face the issues that peer pressure places upon them. I found myself pondering what makes people (especially young people) want to go so far to make a complete change in appearance, especially when their new image will only make them happy for just so long. It takes more than superficial changes to a person's image to find true happiness, and discover what is really more important in life.
Fake Boobs is a realistic and compelling story about dealing with personal insecurities, self awareness and confidence, peer pressure, finding and accepting your true inner self. Author Ryan Ringbloom thoughtfully delivers a power message that will resonate with the reader for a long time.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Reading Addiction Virtual Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlsizzlingbookreviews....
Author Ryan Ringbloom weaves an interesting and enjoyable new adult tale that delves into the issues of self confidence, self esteem, struggling with self body image, and wanting desperately to fit in. These are all issues that young people can relate to when it comes to how they view their body, appearance, and attractiveness among their peers.
The story is told in the perspective of both Tori and Grant, and as the reader follows their journey, you can't help but feel empathy for these young people as they struggle to face the issues that peer pressure places upon them. I found myself pondering what makes people (especially young people) want to go so far to make a complete change in appearance, especially when their new image will only make them happy for just so long. It takes more than superficial changes to a person's image to find true happiness, and discover what is really more important in life.
Fake Boobs is a realistic and compelling story about dealing with personal insecurities, self awareness and confidence, peer pressure, finding and accepting your true inner self. Author Ryan Ringbloom thoughtfully delivers a power message that will resonate with the reader for a long time.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Reading Addiction Virtual Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlsizzlingbookreviews....
March 9, 2015
What we do to ourselves is a product of self esteem and yeah how we stupidly value the opinions of boys that ignore us. Yes we are the products of public opinion. That is what Tori has grown up with. Her brothers friends talking about the girls that they are attracted to, yeah while she is sitting there just like one of the guys. So what do you think, did Tori feel like the beautiful woman she really was? No so hence the title of this book. But there was one person that not only like what she looked like, he was so attracted that he had to sit next to her and protect her, Grant.
Fear of his own heart is what ruled Grant to make the mistakes he made with the woman he loves, the years wasted pinning over her after he broke her heart. When he finally sees her again, shock is all he can feel. She has changed and although he loves her and will always think she is perfect he isn't happy with the changes. Now all he has to do is make her see the beauty he sees and his heart...again.
This book hit me because right now I have a daughter that is at the age that body image is so important, and like most women I don;t have the best image of myself. So I try everyday to have her see how beautiful she is and how she should be seen by others as the natural beauty she really is. Now she is 15 so I can't really have her read this book because it is sexy as all hell! I , however feel that the message is one that all women should take to heart. We are all beautiful, just the way we are. We shouldn't change ourselves for other but for ourselves. Be happy with who you are and everything else will follow even the man of your dreams!
Bravo, to Ryan for writing a book that isn't just about the romance and heat we all crave but about how we see ourselves. A book that we can all relate to above the fantasy of a prince to come to our hearts rescue. This book was perfection and Tori and Grant my hero's.
Fear of his own heart is what ruled Grant to make the mistakes he made with the woman he loves, the years wasted pinning over her after he broke her heart. When he finally sees her again, shock is all he can feel. She has changed and although he loves her and will always think she is perfect he isn't happy with the changes. Now all he has to do is make her see the beauty he sees and his heart...again.
This book hit me because right now I have a daughter that is at the age that body image is so important, and like most women I don;t have the best image of myself. So I try everyday to have her see how beautiful she is and how she should be seen by others as the natural beauty she really is. Now she is 15 so I can't really have her read this book because it is sexy as all hell! I , however feel that the message is one that all women should take to heart. We are all beautiful, just the way we are. We shouldn't change ourselves for other but for ourselves. Be happy with who you are and everything else will follow even the man of your dreams!
Bravo, to Ryan for writing a book that isn't just about the romance and heat we all crave but about how we see ourselves. A book that we can all relate to above the fantasy of a prince to come to our hearts rescue. This book was perfection and Tori and Grant my hero's.
March 14, 2015
3.5 Stars
I'm afraid to say I struggled to finish this book. It started out with promise but quickly lost it its way for me. I was warned about the split POVs and thought I could handle them but I found myself skim reading through Grant's POV until we were back in the present.
The story is one of hope: can the ugly ducking who turns into a artificially enhanced swan find someone to love who she really is? I guess the story kind of rings true in that it makes you question just what girls go through on a daily basis to make themselves pretty, is make up, waxing, dying, false tan etc etc really necessary just to be accepted by society? Or, are we fooling ourselves into a false sense of security.
Anyway, back to the story. You have to pity Tori, she is so lost in her thoughts that she can't see a way to live with her body. She wants to feel something just once with a guy that she willing accepts her brother's friend's drunken offer only to have her chance snatched away from her by Grant but little does Tori know Grant is developing feelings for her, just as she is, but instead of admitting his feelings he runs from her, once again making her feel worthless.
Realising that she must do something, the transformation commences and the false but confident Tori slowly emerges but will she be happy with who she has become?
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I'm afraid to say I struggled to finish this book. It started out with promise but quickly lost it its way for me. I was warned about the split POVs and thought I could handle them but I found myself skim reading through Grant's POV until we were back in the present.
The story is one of hope: can the ugly ducking who turns into a artificially enhanced swan find someone to love who she really is? I guess the story kind of rings true in that it makes you question just what girls go through on a daily basis to make themselves pretty, is make up, waxing, dying, false tan etc etc really necessary just to be accepted by society? Or, are we fooling ourselves into a false sense of security.
Anyway, back to the story. You have to pity Tori, she is so lost in her thoughts that she can't see a way to live with her body. She wants to feel something just once with a guy that she willing accepts her brother's friend's drunken offer only to have her chance snatched away from her by Grant but little does Tori know Grant is developing feelings for her, just as she is, but instead of admitting his feelings he runs from her, once again making her feel worthless.
Realising that she must do something, the transformation commences and the false but confident Tori slowly emerges but will she be happy with who she has become?
Follow Jezabell Girl & Friends, for your next hot read!!!
Email: jezabellgirlandfriends@gmail.com
Web: http://jezabellgirlandfriends.com
FB: http://facebook.com/jezabellgirlandfr...
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Jezabell_girl
Google+: http://google.com/+JezabellGirl
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April 28, 2015
**Copy provided by author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
I loved the whole idea of this book. I loved the idea behind this book. I loved the characters in this book. I just plain loved this book!
Tori was a character that was written in such a realistic way that it was hard not to empathize with her. The constant self-loathing and hate was a bit much a times. I felt like this was Tori basically for the entire book.
Grant was...interesting. He frustrated me more than Tori because WOW! own up to what you feel. This ENTIRE situation could have had a much better, much easier, much quicker outcome if someone had some balls. But no.
As much as that part of the book angered me, I am glad that the author did it. It really put things in perspective and set up everything that Tori goes through after that perfectly.
I liked the themes that this book brought up about girls and self-confidence, and what people are willing to go through to validate themselves. I loved that the author wasn't afraid to crash through that subject wall with a sledgehammer, but still be able to walk calmly through that wall after.
I'm going to have to check out some other works by this author, I was very impressed with this first look!
Read the full review at Bookaholic Raves
I loved the whole idea of this book. I loved the idea behind this book. I loved the characters in this book. I just plain loved this book!
Tori was a character that was written in such a realistic way that it was hard not to empathize with her. The constant self-loathing and hate was a bit much a times. I felt like this was Tori basically for the entire book.
Grant was...interesting. He frustrated me more than Tori because WOW! own up to what you feel. This ENTIRE situation could have had a much better, much easier, much quicker outcome if someone had some balls. But no.
As much as that part of the book angered me, I am glad that the author did it. It really put things in perspective and set up everything that Tori goes through after that perfectly.
I liked the themes that this book brought up about girls and self-confidence, and what people are willing to go through to validate themselves. I loved that the author wasn't afraid to crash through that subject wall with a sledgehammer, but still be able to walk calmly through that wall after.
I'm going to have to check out some other works by this author, I was very impressed with this first look!
Read the full review at Bookaholic Raves
March 2, 2015
First of all I hate the title of this book. Typing Fake Boobs into Amazon to find it to review it, brought up a whole load of things I didn’t even know existed!
Tori thinks she’s ugly. Probably because she’s been hanging around with her brother and his mates listening to their tales of prowess with the bigger busted ladies. She’s tall and slim and pretty flat chested and thinks that guys won’t like her because of it. Her friend at college even gives her a makeover and some chicken fillets to put in her bra! Now ladies, that is like getting a really really nice present and then on unwrapping it, finding something a bit crap! Don’t do it! Make the most of what you’ve got without resorting to adding half your dinner in your bra!
Grant is the love interest in this book and he seems like a nice bloke. He knows he shouldn’t be sniffing round his mate’s little sister because we all know that is a no no.
So the premise of the story is good. The execution is less than good in my opinion. The author has chosen to do this book in two parts. The first part in Tori’s POV and the second part in Grant’s POV. This only really works if you are bringing in unknown parts of the story. If the protagonist was absent and then in their POV you find out what’s happened etc. For me, the biggest mistake a dual POV can be is when it’s simply a retelling of the story. Yes we get a different opinion on things, but I’m not interested in reading the same thing twice.
It’s a shame that this book was so rinse and repeat because it could have been very, very good. Sadly for me, it missed the mark.
Tori thinks she’s ugly. Probably because she’s been hanging around with her brother and his mates listening to their tales of prowess with the bigger busted ladies. She’s tall and slim and pretty flat chested and thinks that guys won’t like her because of it. Her friend at college even gives her a makeover and some chicken fillets to put in her bra! Now ladies, that is like getting a really really nice present and then on unwrapping it, finding something a bit crap! Don’t do it! Make the most of what you’ve got without resorting to adding half your dinner in your bra!
Grant is the love interest in this book and he seems like a nice bloke. He knows he shouldn’t be sniffing round his mate’s little sister because we all know that is a no no.
So the premise of the story is good. The execution is less than good in my opinion. The author has chosen to do this book in two parts. The first part in Tori’s POV and the second part in Grant’s POV. This only really works if you are bringing in unknown parts of the story. If the protagonist was absent and then in their POV you find out what’s happened etc. For me, the biggest mistake a dual POV can be is when it’s simply a retelling of the story. Yes we get a different opinion on things, but I’m not interested in reading the same thing twice.
It’s a shame that this book was so rinse and repeat because it could have been very, very good. Sadly for me, it missed the mark.
July 31, 2015
ARC was provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Fake Boobie Stars!
Tori Albert is an 18-year-old thin, flat-chested girl lacking all confidence in her self. She’s quiet, doesn’t have many friends, and desperate for love and attention. Grant Donovan is one of her brother’s best friends. After a night where Tori really shows her desperation, things change for her and Grant; feelings get involved and hearts get broken. Tori hates the way she looks, so after a makeover from her new college roommate, Kenna, she starts to take action on building her confidence to become a new, and improved Tori.
Let me start off by saying there is a lot of self-depreciation going on in this book, but it really puts you into the mindset that Tori is in. It shows you what she really thinks about herself, and what a lot of girls think about themselves around that age. It’s easy for me to relate to that because I used to lack a lot of self-confidence, and I am still insecure about myself at times.
This was a really good read for me, and I really liked the fact that we got to see what happened from both POV’s. However, I did not care for Kenna that much. I feel like she was going through stuff herself and teaching all the wrong things to Tori, but maybe my mind will change after I read Hooker Heels.
3.5 Fake Boobie Stars!
Tori Albert is an 18-year-old thin, flat-chested girl lacking all confidence in her self. She’s quiet, doesn’t have many friends, and desperate for love and attention. Grant Donovan is one of her brother’s best friends. After a night where Tori really shows her desperation, things change for her and Grant; feelings get involved and hearts get broken. Tori hates the way she looks, so after a makeover from her new college roommate, Kenna, she starts to take action on building her confidence to become a new, and improved Tori.
Let me start off by saying there is a lot of self-depreciation going on in this book, but it really puts you into the mindset that Tori is in. It shows you what she really thinks about herself, and what a lot of girls think about themselves around that age. It’s easy for me to relate to that because I used to lack a lot of self-confidence, and I am still insecure about myself at times.
This was a really good read for me, and I really liked the fact that we got to see what happened from both POV’s. However, I did not care for Kenna that much. I feel like she was going through stuff herself and teaching all the wrong things to Tori, but maybe my mind will change after I read Hooker Heels.
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February 5, 2015PHENOMENAL !!!!
Well well well...where do I begin.
I had the privilege of reading this book from its beginning stages and watch it bloom into a wonderful story that I absolutely could NOT put down. Ryan Ringbloom really has a way of sucking you into her world until you are right beside her characters, cryin every tear, feeling every heartache and swooning along with them. This book really blew me away. I have always been a fan of this author but after reading this book, I worship the ground she walks on and I am not ashamed to admit it. Fake Boobs falls - somewhat - under a forbidden love category as it is about a girl who has a crush on her brothers best friend and all the obstacles they face just to be together all the while Tori (the heroine) is struggling with insecurities of her own. And no don't worry, she is not one of those dumb girls that don't have a backbone. Oh no...her issues are very realistic. Will have people remembering themselves at that age. Don't even get me started on Grant. It took me a while to stop talking about him and I don't want to drive myself crazy over him again. There is only one thing I can say. I MUST say....He is my book boyfriend. You hear me ladies? MINE !!!!!!
Overall, I ADORED this book and I am glad I purchased it. Worth every penny <3
Well well well...where do I begin.
I had the privilege of reading this book from its beginning stages and watch it bloom into a wonderful story that I absolutely could NOT put down. Ryan Ringbloom really has a way of sucking you into her world until you are right beside her characters, cryin every tear, feeling every heartache and swooning along with them. This book really blew me away. I have always been a fan of this author but after reading this book, I worship the ground she walks on and I am not ashamed to admit it. Fake Boobs falls - somewhat - under a forbidden love category as it is about a girl who has a crush on her brothers best friend and all the obstacles they face just to be together all the while Tori (the heroine) is struggling with insecurities of her own. And no don't worry, she is not one of those dumb girls that don't have a backbone. Oh no...her issues are very realistic. Will have people remembering themselves at that age. Don't even get me started on Grant. It took me a while to stop talking about him and I don't want to drive myself crazy over him again. There is only one thing I can say. I MUST say....He is my book boyfriend. You hear me ladies? MINE !!!!!!
Overall, I ADORED this book and I am glad I purchased it. Worth every penny <3
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