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Discovering Trilogy #1
Discovering April
April Landau thinks she has everything she’s ever wanted. Her high school sweetheart, a house she can’t afford, her bipolar tabby cat, and she’s all set to begin her Junior year of college. Just when she least expects it, her life gets thrown for a loop. When things between her and her long time boyfriend unravel, she becomes stuck in a downward spiral of emotion. Finally, opening her eyes to the fact that she may have given up more than she ever could have imagined in this relationship. She finds herself struggling to keep her head above water.
Enter April’s next door neighbor— Jared Hoffman. He’s her complete opposite. A high school drop out who was forced to take over his parent’s business after their untimely death. It’s no surprise this tragedy affected him greatly, causing him to recede almost completely from society.
But he has one secret. A secret he’s been carrying around for years.
What happens when their worlds collide? Can an old friendship be the one thing that brings these two back to life?
A new adult love story filled with drama, sex, death, and the complications of all of the above.
Enter April’s next door neighbor— Jared Hoffman. He’s her complete opposite. A high school drop out who was forced to take over his parent’s business after their untimely death. It’s no surprise this tragedy affected him greatly, causing him to recede almost completely from society.
But he has one secret. A secret he’s been carrying around for years.
What happens when their worlds collide? Can an old friendship be the one thing that brings these two back to life?
A new adult love story filled with drama, sex, death, and the complications of all of the above.
446 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2015
41 people are currently reading
1482 people want to read
About the author
Sheena Hutchinson
9 books408 followersSheena is a born and raised New Yorker, who followed her happily ever after to a much more rural town in Maine. When she’s not driving an hour to find a Starbucks or running from bugs that are way to big for her taste, she’s focusing on writing stories that empower and inspire.
Sheena always roots for the underdog, believes in love at first sight, and that everyone should have their happily ever after.
For more on Sheena and her books visit her website: www.SheenaHutchinson.com.
Sheena always roots for the underdog, believes in love at first sight, and that everyone should have their happily ever after.
For more on Sheena and her books visit her website: www.SheenaHutchinson.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
July 8, 2015
2.5 stars
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Xpresso book tours, and author Sheena Hutchinson)
“No we aren’t… it’s time we face facts, April. We aren’t working anymore.”
This started out okay, but I lost interest.
The characters annoyed me a bit in this book, they both make split second decisions on little information, and then wondered why their lives went tits-up. Why not wait until you have all the information to fly off the handle? Why make silly assumptions?
The storyline in this consisted of characters having spats over wrong assumptions, and a lot of anger and hostility. There were a couple of sex scenes, which were probably the best part of the book, but they couldn’t save it for me. And why oh why people have to butcher the phrase – 'Once IN a while’ – they stupidly say ‘once and a while’ which makes zero sense, is quite beyond me.
The ending to this was likewise full of misunderstanding, and I was just pleased to be finished.
5 out of 10
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Xpresso book tours, and author Sheena Hutchinson)
“No we aren’t… it’s time we face facts, April. We aren’t working anymore.”
This started out okay, but I lost interest.
The characters annoyed me a bit in this book, they both make split second decisions on little information, and then wondered why their lives went tits-up. Why not wait until you have all the information to fly off the handle? Why make silly assumptions?
The storyline in this consisted of characters having spats over wrong assumptions, and a lot of anger and hostility. There were a couple of sex scenes, which were probably the best part of the book, but they couldn’t save it for me. And why oh why people have to butcher the phrase – 'Once IN a while’ – they stupidly say ‘once and a while’ which makes zero sense, is quite beyond me.
The ending to this was likewise full of misunderstanding, and I was just pleased to be finished.
5 out of 10
May 25, 2015
“Sometimes you have to kind of die inside in order to rise from your own ashes and believe in yourself and love yourself to become a new person.”
----Gerard Way
Sheena Hutchinson, an American author, pens her new contemporary romance novel, Discovering April that is all about taking the road to self-discovery, falling in love, and all the issues attached with it. Centered around a college junior, named April whose perfect life turns imperfect with just one stroke of a mistake.
Synopsis:
April Landau thinks she has everything she’s ever wanted. Her high school sweetheart, a house she can’t afford, her bipolar tabby cat, and she’s all set to begin her Junior year of college. Just when she least expects it, her life gets thrown for a loop. When things between her and her long time boyfriend unravel, she becomes stuck in a downward spiral of emotion. Finally, opening her eyes to the fact that she may have given up more than she ever could have imagined in this relationship. She finds herself struggling to keep her head above water.
Enter April’s next door neighbor— Jared Hoffman. He’s her complete opposite. A high school drop out who was forced to take over his parent’s business after their untimely death. It’s no surprise this tragedy affected him greatly, causing him to recede almost completely from society.
But he has one secret. A secret he’s been carrying around for years.
What happens when their worlds collide? Can an old friendship be the one thing that brings these two back to life?
It happens many a times that you lose your identity in order to keep yourself up in a high-maintenance relationship. April reminds me of myself when I was in my previous relationship, where I lost myself because of the my ex-boyfriend. Although, I had no one like Jared to help me find me, but still I managed to crawl out of that sticky situation and even managed to find myself.
April is a college junior, leaves in her parents' fancy house, but it is a real struggle to pay the bills off all by yourself and moreover, when you have a boyfriend who is a complete jerk. Hunter is a football player and an idiot when it comes to April, he has no respect for her. On the other hand, April stretches herself to keep herself with Hunter. But one day everything falls apart when she finds out that Hunter has been cheating on her. Jared, April's next door neighbor and her once-upon-a-time-best-friend, jumps into the scene to rescue April from the relationship puddle and in that process, he helps her to find herself.
The writing style of the author is fantastic and she have layered her plot with the right amount of emotions that are enough to make us feel every bit of story. The book begins with a slower pace, mainly because of April and Hunter drama and her annoying attitude. But mid-way through the book, especially, when Jared makes his presence felt to us, the story catches up pace and I felt engaged till the very last page.
The characters are all drawn with enough realism among their demeanor, like I said, April felt like an extremely real person, and I could relate to her every tantrum thrown by her. In the begining of the book, April is bound to annoy and irritate everyone, but once she embarks on to the road to self-discovery alongside Jared, she turns into an adorable person. Moreover, we get to see the story through her own voice.
Jared, on the other hand, is a closed book, and I wish the author could have developed him bit further, instead of featuring him as a closed book. He is the only mature character in the book who gets a hold of April to show her the correct way. Jared is the best thing in this story. He is caring, kind and patient. Not only that, Jared has his own personal grief to worry about His chemistry with April is portrayed with a lot of lust and passion.
This is quite a heart-touching story with an uplifting theme centered around finding one-self. I bet April's journey will help a lot of young women who give themselves up because of a relationship.
Verdict: This book will appeal to all the contemporary romance fans.
Courtesy: I received this book for a blog tour.
----Gerard Way
Sheena Hutchinson, an American author, pens her new contemporary romance novel, Discovering April that is all about taking the road to self-discovery, falling in love, and all the issues attached with it. Centered around a college junior, named April whose perfect life turns imperfect with just one stroke of a mistake.
Synopsis:
April Landau thinks she has everything she’s ever wanted. Her high school sweetheart, a house she can’t afford, her bipolar tabby cat, and she’s all set to begin her Junior year of college. Just when she least expects it, her life gets thrown for a loop. When things between her and her long time boyfriend unravel, she becomes stuck in a downward spiral of emotion. Finally, opening her eyes to the fact that she may have given up more than she ever could have imagined in this relationship. She finds herself struggling to keep her head above water.
Enter April’s next door neighbor— Jared Hoffman. He’s her complete opposite. A high school drop out who was forced to take over his parent’s business after their untimely death. It’s no surprise this tragedy affected him greatly, causing him to recede almost completely from society.
But he has one secret. A secret he’s been carrying around for years.
What happens when their worlds collide? Can an old friendship be the one thing that brings these two back to life?
It happens many a times that you lose your identity in order to keep yourself up in a high-maintenance relationship. April reminds me of myself when I was in my previous relationship, where I lost myself because of the my ex-boyfriend. Although, I had no one like Jared to help me find me, but still I managed to crawl out of that sticky situation and even managed to find myself.
April is a college junior, leaves in her parents' fancy house, but it is a real struggle to pay the bills off all by yourself and moreover, when you have a boyfriend who is a complete jerk. Hunter is a football player and an idiot when it comes to April, he has no respect for her. On the other hand, April stretches herself to keep herself with Hunter. But one day everything falls apart when she finds out that Hunter has been cheating on her. Jared, April's next door neighbor and her once-upon-a-time-best-friend, jumps into the scene to rescue April from the relationship puddle and in that process, he helps her to find herself.
The writing style of the author is fantastic and she have layered her plot with the right amount of emotions that are enough to make us feel every bit of story. The book begins with a slower pace, mainly because of April and Hunter drama and her annoying attitude. But mid-way through the book, especially, when Jared makes his presence felt to us, the story catches up pace and I felt engaged till the very last page.
The characters are all drawn with enough realism among their demeanor, like I said, April felt like an extremely real person, and I could relate to her every tantrum thrown by her. In the begining of the book, April is bound to annoy and irritate everyone, but once she embarks on to the road to self-discovery alongside Jared, she turns into an adorable person. Moreover, we get to see the story through her own voice.
Jared, on the other hand, is a closed book, and I wish the author could have developed him bit further, instead of featuring him as a closed book. He is the only mature character in the book who gets a hold of April to show her the correct way. Jared is the best thing in this story. He is caring, kind and patient. Not only that, Jared has his own personal grief to worry about His chemistry with April is portrayed with a lot of lust and passion.
This is quite a heart-touching story with an uplifting theme centered around finding one-self. I bet April's journey will help a lot of young women who give themselves up because of a relationship.
Verdict: This book will appeal to all the contemporary romance fans.
Courtesy: I received this book for a blog tour.
August 19, 2015
*I received an e-ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Review is also posted on Let’s Say It’s A Blog
THE ENDING, oh God, the ending…..
Okay, I know I’m being a tease, lol, can’t help it really.
Discovering April is a new adult contemporary romance by Sheena Hutchinson with first person POV (heroine). I always found it interesting to read a book by author who belongs ‘new’ to me. Writing style is always my first anticipation. I began by reading one chapter first and despite the appearance of annoying character (yes, Hunter indeed) I knew I’d enjoy this book because of Ms. Hutchinson’s writing style. At first, I was thinking that this book would be a light read with minor climax but then in the end of chapter 29 I dropped my jaw and had to welcome myself into weeping state…
All her life, April Landau didn’t realize that she had a need of labeling herself before stepping up to the outside world. As a kid, it was always Jared and April. Jared, the neighbor slash childhood best friend who was slowly drifted apart one summer during high school. Growing, it changed into Hunter and April. It was always two of them against the world. Whenever Hunter happened to mess up and they had one of their little break-ups, April would be like a lost puppy not knowing what to do or where to go. So when one day they broke it up for real, April lost herself. Or seemed like it. She avoided the crowd, she didn’t come out, she practically locked herself up at home. Then came Jared. Jared, the neighbor slash old best friend slash stranger. It’s been years since they last talked to each other. Been years since Jared’s parents died and he shut himself out to focus onto work. Jared came around one day when April was weeping over the ‘real’ breakup she had with Hunter. Slowly the old best friends started to hang out together again. But things were different now. They were not just two old friends tried to catch up the missing years. April might be oblivious but Jared couldn’t deny the buried feeling he had for years. When the two of them finally realized their own feelings, it was time to be true to each other. Jared helped April to find herself again, to pick up the pieces that lost by being a shadow on previous relationship. Jared managed to make April believe that she needed no label whatsoever to live her life. It was no need to be back to Jared and April. It should always be April Landau. And Jared on the frame was not as the light or as the shadow; he was simply as the company. When they thought things finally fell into its places, they were once again faced with the hurdle that could break them apart or tighten them even more.
I actually thought that Discovering April started slow in the beginning chapters. Even when it passed 50%, I admit I thought this was going to end in such cliché heroine-have-a-happily-ever-after-with-the-childhood-crush-slash-neighbour kind of ending and I was a bit scared that there was no such thing that would make great memory that will flashing on my mind every time this book is mentioned in the future. But then... then Ms. Hutchinson made a hard kick around 76% and made me weeping over and over again from chapter 30 to the end. This couple might have a slow and smooth beginning but then again… there’s no true love that wasn’t touch by God’s test. So, yeah, the climax wrapping made me gasping for air. Some people might think that it was a bit dramatic but God, I looooooove it so much!
I disliked April’s character at first. The repeating cycle of breakup with Hunter was really a big minus for me. Added it with her overreacting and hysterical demeanor. Then Jared came and that’s when I started to like April. When she started to get a grip of her old self, April was actually kind of cool. I loved it that Jared came back was not just for his own benefit, but he came to help April became the one he used to know before, he came to help April discover herself. Jared, even though I found him a bit closed and has a strange habit of taking April on sudden trips, was kind of sweet and understanding.
Yes, Jared, I’m in love with you.....
Err.. I mean, I agree with you!
GO, good boy!
I wanted so bad to share what I felt from chapter 30 to the rest but I don’t want to make any spoilers or anything. So I’ll just say that I couldn’t stop crying and aww-ing. I’m usually not a drama-lover type of reader but this one, though… this one had me gripping tightly to my e-reader. And oh, the HEA… <3
Thanks, Ms. Hutchinson for creating such a lovely ending for both of them! :)
Review is also posted on Let’s Say It’s A Blog
THE ENDING, oh God, the ending…..
Okay, I know I’m being a tease, lol, can’t help it really.
Discovering April is a new adult contemporary romance by Sheena Hutchinson with first person POV (heroine). I always found it interesting to read a book by author who belongs ‘new’ to me. Writing style is always my first anticipation. I began by reading one chapter first and despite the appearance of annoying character (yes, Hunter indeed) I knew I’d enjoy this book because of Ms. Hutchinson’s writing style. At first, I was thinking that this book would be a light read with minor climax but then in the end of chapter 29 I dropped my jaw and had to welcome myself into weeping state…
All her life, April Landau didn’t realize that she had a need of labeling herself before stepping up to the outside world. As a kid, it was always Jared and April. Jared, the neighbor slash childhood best friend who was slowly drifted apart one summer during high school. Growing, it changed into Hunter and April. It was always two of them against the world. Whenever Hunter happened to mess up and they had one of their little break-ups, April would be like a lost puppy not knowing what to do or where to go. So when one day they broke it up for real, April lost herself. Or seemed like it. She avoided the crowd, she didn’t come out, she practically locked herself up at home. Then came Jared. Jared, the neighbor slash old best friend slash stranger. It’s been years since they last talked to each other. Been years since Jared’s parents died and he shut himself out to focus onto work. Jared came around one day when April was weeping over the ‘real’ breakup she had with Hunter. Slowly the old best friends started to hang out together again. But things were different now. They were not just two old friends tried to catch up the missing years. April might be oblivious but Jared couldn’t deny the buried feeling he had for years. When the two of them finally realized their own feelings, it was time to be true to each other. Jared helped April to find herself again, to pick up the pieces that lost by being a shadow on previous relationship. Jared managed to make April believe that she needed no label whatsoever to live her life. It was no need to be back to Jared and April. It should always be April Landau. And Jared on the frame was not as the light or as the shadow; he was simply as the company. When they thought things finally fell into its places, they were once again faced with the hurdle that could break them apart or tighten them even more.
I actually thought that Discovering April started slow in the beginning chapters. Even when it passed 50%, I admit I thought this was going to end in such cliché heroine-have-a-happily-ever-after-with-the-childhood-crush-slash-neighbour kind of ending and I was a bit scared that there was no such thing that would make great memory that will flashing on my mind every time this book is mentioned in the future. But then... then Ms. Hutchinson made a hard kick around 76% and made me weeping over and over again from chapter 30 to the end. This couple might have a slow and smooth beginning but then again… there’s no true love that wasn’t touch by God’s test. So, yeah, the climax wrapping made me gasping for air. Some people might think that it was a bit dramatic but God, I looooooove it so much!
I disliked April’s character at first. The repeating cycle of breakup with Hunter was really a big minus for me. Added it with her overreacting and hysterical demeanor. Then Jared came and that’s when I started to like April. When she started to get a grip of her old self, April was actually kind of cool. I loved it that Jared came back was not just for his own benefit, but he came to help April became the one he used to know before, he came to help April discover herself. Jared, even though I found him a bit closed and has a strange habit of taking April on sudden trips, was kind of sweet and understanding.
“Chivalrous acts are done as a sign of respect to you. Men, real men, that is, do these things for women not because we have to, but because we feel they deserve to be honored in some small, tiny way every single day.”
(Jared Hoffman; Chapter XX, Discovering April)
Yes, Jared, I’m in love with you.....
Err.. I mean, I agree with you!
GO, good boy!
I wanted so bad to share what I felt from chapter 30 to the rest but I don’t want to make any spoilers or anything. So I’ll just say that I couldn’t stop crying and aww-ing. I’m usually not a drama-lover type of reader but this one, though… this one had me gripping tightly to my e-reader. And oh, the HEA… <3
Thanks, Ms. Hutchinson for creating such a lovely ending for both of them! :)
February 15, 2016
Won a free copy of this book from the Goodreads Giveaway and I was happily surprised that I really liked it. The story follows April Landau who is currently in an unhealthy relationship with her on and off again boyfriend Hunter. She doesn't know who she is without him so she rather be in this type of relationship than to be on her own. But when she is forced to deal with a world without him, her neighbor Jared pops back into her life and she may get another chance to find herself and experience true love.
I read this book all the way through until I finished it. It had moments where I was annoyed with the main character April because she was so fixated on her awful ex-boyfriend even after the way he treated her and I was just so over how she was dealing with the break up. But as I continued I realized that it was an honest reaction because I have had friends who thought they were in love with someone and lost themselves along the way. It is scary to realize that you don't even know who you are anymore without that someone you thought you would spend the rest of your life with.
Although, I have read many love stories I really feel that the characters were fleshed out and you couldn't help but root for Jared who has loved April since they were little kids. It was nice to experience a story were there was pure trust and love among two people who were fighting for each other in a world of chaos.
*** I just want to have donuts with someone special***
Rating: 3.5
I read this book all the way through until I finished it. It had moments where I was annoyed with the main character April because she was so fixated on her awful ex-boyfriend even after the way he treated her and I was just so over how she was dealing with the break up. But as I continued I realized that it was an honest reaction because I have had friends who thought they were in love with someone and lost themselves along the way. It is scary to realize that you don't even know who you are anymore without that someone you thought you would spend the rest of your life with.
Although, I have read many love stories I really feel that the characters were fleshed out and you couldn't help but root for Jared who has loved April since they were little kids. It was nice to experience a story were there was pure trust and love among two people who were fighting for each other in a world of chaos.
*** I just want to have donuts with someone special***
Rating: 3.5
July 8, 2015
Actual rating - 2.5
This started out okay, but I lost interest rather quickly unfortunately. The pacing was too slow for me, and when things started happening, I still felt bored.
The characters weren't ones I could love either unfortunately, they were pretty annoying at times.
This started out okay, but I lost interest rather quickly unfortunately. The pacing was too slow for me, and when things started happening, I still felt bored.
The characters weren't ones I could love either unfortunately, they were pretty annoying at times.
July 4, 2015
*I received a copy of this from Xpresso Book Tours for review.
*Review can be found at The Fox's Hideaway.
My Review!
Minor spoilers.
I can't even with how upset I am at this book right now. It started off fine, I was enjoying it. But then little annoyances started to add up, until I was slogging through the boring drama in the book. I mean, it wasn't all dramatics. There was a fair bit of cheesiness involved, as well as very little IMPORTANT and EMOTIONAL dialogue between the couple. And it all added up to an epilogue that made absolutely no fucking sense.
Let's start with the main character, April. I didn't like her. She was shallow, dense, immature, and had zero personality. Her character was just so bland. I found myself not caring about her, though understanding some of the choices she made. And she may have been a fighter, but she was passive where it counts. In letting a guy walk all over her, and not standing up for herself and her decisions more. I didn't like how she let people treat her, and I just felt that she still didn't have a sense of who she was by the end of the book. She didn't grow. Not to mention, she slut-shamed all of the women who were a threat, to both her ex and her crush. That wasn't cool at all. She lost major points for that.
I didn't even like Jared. He just, he never stood out to me. And he kind of treated her like a child most times. Also he had moods and was never honest with her about anything (not counting the quick and seemingly random "I love you"). Oh, his best friend is being a dick? Well, he's just been through a lot. That's not an excuse, and neither is ignoring how much your BFF is making your girlfriend uncomfortable. And what he did at the end? I'm sorry, but fuck that. I didn't like April all that much, but she did NOT deserve what he did to her. She should have made him grovel for that, and not apologize and literally chase after him until he finally decided to get over himself and LISTEN. You don't just walk away from someone for four months and then make them fight for you.
Their romance was all cheese and had no emotional depth at all. I don't think they even had ONE deep conversation. As much dialogue as there was in here, it didn't really leave the surface level. Even when they started sleeping together, even when they became a couple, they never truly talked. I never believed in their romance, and I wish it had been developed better. Not to mention, I am still so fucking upset with that ending and with what Jared did that I don't care how long they've known each other or how in love they are, I'm not a fan of this relationship at all.
Speaking of what could have been developed better, the relationships with the secondary characters were lacking. The characters were all cardboard cutouts, and I liked only a few of them (but still better than the two above). They would just kind of show up at random times, make it seem like April actually has a life and friends, and then leave again. None of them ever really stayed in the story. And there was this, I don't know, secondary story-line involving two of the side characters. It felt irrelevant to this book, and it does not make me want to read their story after this.
The plot was so boring. I had trouble just wanting to continue, because nothing was happening. Nothing that exciting, and I think my feelings (or lack thereof) for the characters made me not enjoy it at all. And after the accident, everything just seemed to drag on and on and on and... That led up to the worst epilogue in the history epilogues I've ever read. Talk about not knowing when to stop writing a book. Because I was upset about Jared's decision, I didn't give a shit in hearing what he was thinking during it. I found that, and the epilogue, to completely erase the perfect ending before that. Why did it need to go on? Why did we need Jared's POV for the months that didn't matter? It was ridiculous!
This was a YA novel disguised as an NA one with how immature the characters acted and with how young the MC's voice sounded. I had been excited to read it but ended up pushing through just because I had to write this review. I am so fucking disappointed in Discovering April.
Rating: 2 Paw Prints!
*Review can be found at The Fox's Hideaway.
My Review!
Minor spoilers.
I can't even with how upset I am at this book right now. It started off fine, I was enjoying it. But then little annoyances started to add up, until I was slogging through the boring drama in the book. I mean, it wasn't all dramatics. There was a fair bit of cheesiness involved, as well as very little IMPORTANT and EMOTIONAL dialogue between the couple. And it all added up to an epilogue that made absolutely no fucking sense.
Let's start with the main character, April. I didn't like her. She was shallow, dense, immature, and had zero personality. Her character was just so bland. I found myself not caring about her, though understanding some of the choices she made. And she may have been a fighter, but she was passive where it counts. In letting a guy walk all over her, and not standing up for herself and her decisions more. I didn't like how she let people treat her, and I just felt that she still didn't have a sense of who she was by the end of the book. She didn't grow. Not to mention, she slut-shamed all of the women who were a threat, to both her ex and her crush. That wasn't cool at all. She lost major points for that.
I didn't even like Jared. He just, he never stood out to me. And he kind of treated her like a child most times. Also he had moods and was never honest with her about anything (not counting the quick and seemingly random "I love you"). Oh, his best friend is being a dick? Well, he's just been through a lot. That's not an excuse, and neither is ignoring how much your BFF is making your girlfriend uncomfortable. And what he did at the end? I'm sorry, but fuck that. I didn't like April all that much, but she did NOT deserve what he did to her. She should have made him grovel for that, and not apologize and literally chase after him until he finally decided to get over himself and LISTEN. You don't just walk away from someone for four months and then make them fight for you.
Their romance was all cheese and had no emotional depth at all. I don't think they even had ONE deep conversation. As much dialogue as there was in here, it didn't really leave the surface level. Even when they started sleeping together, even when they became a couple, they never truly talked. I never believed in their romance, and I wish it had been developed better. Not to mention, I am still so fucking upset with that ending and with what Jared did that I don't care how long they've known each other or how in love they are, I'm not a fan of this relationship at all.
Speaking of what could have been developed better, the relationships with the secondary characters were lacking. The characters were all cardboard cutouts, and I liked only a few of them (but still better than the two above). They would just kind of show up at random times, make it seem like April actually has a life and friends, and then leave again. None of them ever really stayed in the story. And there was this, I don't know, secondary story-line involving two of the side characters. It felt irrelevant to this book, and it does not make me want to read their story after this.
The plot was so boring. I had trouble just wanting to continue, because nothing was happening. Nothing that exciting, and I think my feelings (or lack thereof) for the characters made me not enjoy it at all. And after the accident, everything just seemed to drag on and on and on and... That led up to the worst epilogue in the history epilogues I've ever read. Talk about not knowing when to stop writing a book. Because I was upset about Jared's decision, I didn't give a shit in hearing what he was thinking during it. I found that, and the epilogue, to completely erase the perfect ending before that. Why did it need to go on? Why did we need Jared's POV for the months that didn't matter? It was ridiculous!
This was a YA novel disguised as an NA one with how immature the characters acted and with how young the MC's voice sounded. I had been excited to read it but ended up pushing through just because I had to write this review. I am so fucking disappointed in Discovering April.
Rating: 2 Paw Prints!
May 15, 2015
**I received a digital copy of the book via Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.**
OH MY GOD, THIS BOOK WAS EPIC! I was so thrilled when I got the email late at night telling me that they had approved my request. I got so exited that I couldn't sleep at all. And after finishing this book, it was totally worth it. I enjoyed every damn moment of this roller coaster emotional ride.
It's a story about April who is a college student struggling to pay her bills and maintain a relationship with her boyfriend Hunter. Hunter is pretty wealthy, a football player and a jerk. April's parent's have moved to Florida and left their house to April. She works at the local coffee shop and most of the time doesn't even have food in her refrigerator. April is pretty devastated when she finds out Hunter is cheating on her. Her world comes crashing down around her and she finds herself at a loss. But then Jared, her next door neighbour (MEET MY NEW OH-SO-GORGEOUS BOOK BOYFRIEND!!) steps in and she begins to pick up her pieces and discover herself in a new light.
The plot was well laid. At first I thought it was going pretty much the way I was thinking and then BAM! I was shocked at what happened in chapter 29 and I was a sobbing mess from chapter 30 onwards. I don't think anybody who has read this book saw that coming.
April was a character who irritated me at first. I mean how could she be with a guy like Hunter who treated her like he owned her. Even she understood that she deserved someone better but she just clung onto him because he was her first love. I was so happy when they finally broke up. But her life turned into a mess because she had her life build up around Hunter. And without him she lost herself. Oh, believe me this happens in real life as well cause I've seen one of my classmate going through this and at the end she turned herself into an alien, sort of, I mean she just became a whole new person and in a bad way. Luckily that didn't happen here because there was Jared.
Jared was a guy I liked immediately and after this-
I feel in love with him. *SWOONS*
Jared and April were childhood friends but they drifted apart when Jared's parents died and he isolated himself. April moved on with her life but Jared never did, he remained in love with her. And after April's breakup they started reconnecting. He was a sweet, caring and lovable kind of guy. He challenged her, made her see life in a different way and with him even April realised he made her a better person.
But Jared was afraid of one thing, he didn't want to be her rebound.
I was literally squealing in this scene. After this there was no stopping them when April confirmed he was never gonna be his rebound but much more.
Their relationship was pretty smooth at first with a few cute fights. Their first official date was awsome! Jared's friends accpted her except Eric but now I understand why he thought that way, I loved Stacey and Ro, they were the best girlfriends ever in their own unique way. And finally when April realised she was in love with him and confessed that, I was in tears because of the situation. Oh, Ms. Hutchinson you know how to make someone cry.
The only tini-tiny thing that bothered me at first was the writing style, it was written in 1st person POV but in present tense. It took me a few chapters but then I was pretty comfortable with it.
The story was intense, it made me laugh, cry, swoon, it had heart wrenching moments and everything that makes a story perfect and complete. I loved this book. I'm so glad that I requested it. :-)
Recommend it?
A BIG YES.
OH MY GOD, THIS BOOK WAS EPIC! I was so thrilled when I got the email late at night telling me that they had approved my request. I got so exited that I couldn't sleep at all. And after finishing this book, it was totally worth it. I enjoyed every damn moment of this roller coaster emotional ride.
It's a story about April who is a college student struggling to pay her bills and maintain a relationship with her boyfriend Hunter. Hunter is pretty wealthy, a football player and a jerk. April's parent's have moved to Florida and left their house to April. She works at the local coffee shop and most of the time doesn't even have food in her refrigerator. April is pretty devastated when she finds out Hunter is cheating on her. Her world comes crashing down around her and she finds herself at a loss. But then Jared, her next door neighbour (MEET MY NEW OH-SO-GORGEOUS BOOK BOYFRIEND!!) steps in and she begins to pick up her pieces and discover herself in a new light.
The plot was well laid. At first I thought it was going pretty much the way I was thinking and then BAM! I was shocked at what happened in chapter 29 and I was a sobbing mess from chapter 30 onwards. I don't think anybody who has read this book saw that coming.
April was a character who irritated me at first. I mean how could she be with a guy like Hunter who treated her like he owned her. Even she understood that she deserved someone better but she just clung onto him because he was her first love. I was so happy when they finally broke up. But her life turned into a mess because she had her life build up around Hunter. And without him she lost herself. Oh, believe me this happens in real life as well cause I've seen one of my classmate going through this and at the end she turned herself into an alien, sort of, I mean she just became a whole new person and in a bad way. Luckily that didn't happen here because there was Jared.
Jared was a guy I liked immediately and after this-
“Chivalrous acts are done as a sign of respect to you. Men, real men, that is, do these things for women not because we have to, but because we feel they deserve to be honored in some small, tiny way every single day.”
I feel in love with him. *SWOONS*
Jared and April were childhood friends but they drifted apart when Jared's parents died and he isolated himself. April moved on with her life but Jared never did, he remained in love with her. And after April's breakup they started reconnecting. He was a sweet, caring and lovable kind of guy. He challenged her, made her see life in a different way and with him even April realised he made her a better person.
“You’ve said life is a series of choices, but I think it’s also a series of opportunities, a series of lessons, a series of moments all strung together that loops around into a lifetime—it’s a lifetime of moments. Every decision, every person that has entered my life, has shaped who I am today.”
But Jared was afraid of one thing, he didn't want to be her rebound.
“I don’t want to be just another guy—because I am the guy for you.”
I was literally squealing in this scene. After this there was no stopping them when April confirmed he was never gonna be his rebound but much more.
Their relationship was pretty smooth at first with a few cute fights. Their first official date was awsome! Jared's friends accpted her except Eric but now I understand why he thought that way, I loved Stacey and Ro, they were the best girlfriends ever in their own unique way. And finally when April realised she was in love with him and confessed that, I was in tears because of the situation. Oh, Ms. Hutchinson you know how to make someone cry.
The only tini-tiny thing that bothered me at first was the writing style, it was written in 1st person POV but in present tense. It took me a few chapters but then I was pretty comfortable with it.
The story was intense, it made me laugh, cry, swoon, it had heart wrenching moments and everything that makes a story perfect and complete. I loved this book. I'm so glad that I requested it. :-)
Recommend it?
A BIG YES.
April 30, 2015
4 1/2 Stars!
Discovering April is a sweet, feisty, fast paced romance that pulled me in.
We meet April who's life quickly starts changing right in front of her, and she's left to pick up the pieces of all of the events that have happened. Everything seems to be going to crap for April, and then her childhood best friend, the guy she hasn't talked to in years, who is also her neighbor, helps put her back together again.
I instantly loved Jared, and understood his reservations about April, but the way he treated her, and the things he did for her, he was a dream come true. Watching him and April figure out their friendship/relationship after so many years of not talking was quite interesting, and I knew it was going to progress to more. April couldn't get her mind off of him, and when they both finally decide to move forward, it made me extremely happy.
Seeing Jared and how much he cares for April was beautiful, the things he says and does for her.. OMG. That first "date".. I was definitely swooning over Jared!
I loved how this story progressed and how Sheena Hutchinson didn't make this an insta-love story, but more of finding yourself, and the person you are meant to be with. I loved getting to know more of Jared and April's childhood friendship, and getting to know their past and how it all relates to where they are now.
Jared's friends were all so amazing with him and April, well except Erik, but I understand his reservations now. Watching April go out and find her friends and who she was was also sweet to watch. She really didn't know who she was, she lost herself along the way and with the help of her new found friends, and definitely Jared, she found herself again. I am definitely grateful for this, since in the beginning I wasn't a huge fan of hers, but I definitely fell in love with her character as well.
Discovering April is a gripping book that will suck you in, and I highly recommend this amazing stand alone. You won't regret one-clicking this book today!
Discovering April is a sweet, feisty, fast paced romance that pulled me in.
We meet April who's life quickly starts changing right in front of her, and she's left to pick up the pieces of all of the events that have happened. Everything seems to be going to crap for April, and then her childhood best friend, the guy she hasn't talked to in years, who is also her neighbor, helps put her back together again.
I instantly loved Jared, and understood his reservations about April, but the way he treated her, and the things he did for her, he was a dream come true. Watching him and April figure out their friendship/relationship after so many years of not talking was quite interesting, and I knew it was going to progress to more. April couldn't get her mind off of him, and when they both finally decide to move forward, it made me extremely happy.
Seeing Jared and how much he cares for April was beautiful, the things he says and does for her.. OMG. That first "date".. I was definitely swooning over Jared!
I loved how this story progressed and how Sheena Hutchinson didn't make this an insta-love story, but more of finding yourself, and the person you are meant to be with. I loved getting to know more of Jared and April's childhood friendship, and getting to know their past and how it all relates to where they are now.
Jared's friends were all so amazing with him and April, well except Erik, but I understand his reservations now. Watching April go out and find her friends and who she was was also sweet to watch. She really didn't know who she was, she lost herself along the way and with the help of her new found friends, and definitely Jared, she found herself again. I am definitely grateful for this, since in the beginning I wasn't a huge fan of hers, but I definitely fell in love with her character as well.
Discovering April is a gripping book that will suck you in, and I highly recommend this amazing stand alone. You won't regret one-clicking this book today!
April 28, 2015
I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First I have to say I truly loved this book. It is well written and the characters are well developed and easy to relate too. I mean who among us hasn't been hurt by someone we love?
April is a college student struggling to pay her bills and maintain a relationship with her boyfriend Hunter.
Hunter is pretty wealthy and a football player and a jerk. April's parent's have moved to Florida and left their house to April.
April works at the local coffee shop and most of the time doesn't even have food in her refrigerator. April is pretty devastated when she finds out Hunter is cheating on her. Her world comes crashing down around her and she finds herself at a loss. She is in a pretty bad way, that is when her life long friend and neighbor Jared steps in and decides to help snap her out of the funk she is in. Jared challenges her, makes her think and do things that in the past she would have done without thinking about it. April didn't realize how much of herself she had lost by shaping her life and her future around Hunter. Now with Jared's help she is finally beginning to find herself again.
Jared has been in love with April all of his life. He has watched her his entire life, has been in love with her for his entire life. He could not just sit back and watch her suffer any longer. Slowly as April becomes the April he once knew he tells her that he loves her, but he doesn't want to be the rebound guy.
Jared and April are the perfect couple, most of his friends like her and she fits right in except for his friend Eric who for some reason seems to hate April. Just as April and Jared begin to get closer and tragedy strikes. April is tested in the worst way anyone could imagine when she and Jared are hit my a truck while out on his motorcycle.
First I have to say I truly loved this book. It is well written and the characters are well developed and easy to relate too. I mean who among us hasn't been hurt by someone we love?
April is a college student struggling to pay her bills and maintain a relationship with her boyfriend Hunter.
Hunter is pretty wealthy and a football player and a jerk. April's parent's have moved to Florida and left their house to April.
April works at the local coffee shop and most of the time doesn't even have food in her refrigerator. April is pretty devastated when she finds out Hunter is cheating on her. Her world comes crashing down around her and she finds herself at a loss. She is in a pretty bad way, that is when her life long friend and neighbor Jared steps in and decides to help snap her out of the funk she is in. Jared challenges her, makes her think and do things that in the past she would have done without thinking about it. April didn't realize how much of herself she had lost by shaping her life and her future around Hunter. Now with Jared's help she is finally beginning to find herself again.
Jared has been in love with April all of his life. He has watched her his entire life, has been in love with her for his entire life. He could not just sit back and watch her suffer any longer. Slowly as April becomes the April he once knew he tells her that he loves her, but he doesn't want to be the rebound guy.
Jared and April are the perfect couple, most of his friends like her and she fits right in except for his friend Eric who for some reason seems to hate April. Just as April and Jared begin to get closer and tragedy strikes. April is tested in the worst way anyone could imagine when she and Jared are hit my a truck while out on his motorcycle.
November 1, 2015
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review.*
3.5 stars!
This was the first book I read by Sheena and I enjoyed it for the most pat. I thought it to be a little too corny at times and a little... immature. The way the characters interacted would've been appropriate for somebody still in high school. The only thing making this a NA romance was the sexual content and their living status. There were also some things that were left unanswered. Like the author forgot where the story was going, maybe?
This book was hilarious but I just couldn't get past all the exclamation marks. I liked Jared mostly. Yes, he would act like a high schooler too but he had his moments. The declaration of feelings was a little too quick for me too and it made me question everything about their relationship. I'm not proud of it though. I wish there had been more... depth. The conversations were a little shallow for the most part. I just love it when characters really dig deep. I think it was because I've seen this plot before that I couldn't relate to it.
I fully regret that I just couldn't like April for the life of me. Her personality felt forced to me and I found myself rolling my eyes at her than enjoying the plot. She was a complete dram queen, again, suited for somebody in high school. She yelled so much and just automatically jumped to conclusions, it wasn't fun.
What had me giving this almost 4 stars was that the plot definitely had my pulse racing million miles a minute at the end. Especially when I stumbled into the page before the Acknowledgements...
All I'm going to say is that I NEED to read the other series by Sheena! I need to know what that was all about!!
3.5 stars!
This was the first book I read by Sheena and I enjoyed it for the most pat. I thought it to be a little too corny at times and a little... immature. The way the characters interacted would've been appropriate for somebody still in high school. The only thing making this a NA romance was the sexual content and their living status. There were also some things that were left unanswered. Like the author forgot where the story was going, maybe?
This book was hilarious but I just couldn't get past all the exclamation marks. I liked Jared mostly. Yes, he would act like a high schooler too but he had his moments. The declaration of feelings was a little too quick for me too and it made me question everything about their relationship. I'm not proud of it though. I wish there had been more... depth. The conversations were a little shallow for the most part. I just love it when characters really dig deep. I think it was because I've seen this plot before that I couldn't relate to it.
I fully regret that I just couldn't like April for the life of me. Her personality felt forced to me and I found myself rolling my eyes at her than enjoying the plot. She was a complete dram queen, again, suited for somebody in high school. She yelled so much and just automatically jumped to conclusions, it wasn't fun.
What had me giving this almost 4 stars was that the plot definitely had my pulse racing million miles a minute at the end. Especially when I stumbled into the page before the Acknowledgements...
All I'm going to say is that I NEED to read the other series by Sheena! I need to know what that was all about!!
May 1, 2015
I received this for an honest review.. I have to say OMG I absolutely fell in love with this book.
April is with Hunter who treats her horribly but she stays because they have been together for too long. Can I just say I really felt the need to DROP KICK HIM IN THE HEAD!!! Then thankfully they breakup and April goes through breakup unhappiness all the while right across the street is Jared who she used to be friends with but they grew apart and Jared has been biding his time waiting!!! OMG I loved these two together and I LOVED their relationship and how good Jared is for April...
This book was one of those books I thought I would read a couple of chapters before bed, but no that is not what happened next thing I know it is 1242 in the morning and I have finished this GREAT WONDERFUL book!!! I had the best book hangover to prove it.. I absolutely can not wait to see what else this author has in store for us!!!
April is with Hunter who treats her horribly but she stays because they have been together for too long. Can I just say I really felt the need to DROP KICK HIM IN THE HEAD!!! Then thankfully they breakup and April goes through breakup unhappiness all the while right across the street is Jared who she used to be friends with but they grew apart and Jared has been biding his time waiting!!! OMG I loved these two together and I LOVED their relationship and how good Jared is for April...
This book was one of those books I thought I would read a couple of chapters before bed, but no that is not what happened next thing I know it is 1242 in the morning and I have finished this GREAT WONDERFUL book!!! I had the best book hangover to prove it.. I absolutely can not wait to see what else this author has in store for us!!!
April 15, 2015
I recived an arc of this awesome read in exchange for a review
I give it 5 fun filled angsty stars I'm officially In love with Jared and April I could have just kept on reading there story and been perfectly happy !!! This romance starts with childhood friends who grow to young adults April has lost herself lost her fire because of her cheating ex hunter ....enter Jared Hoffman who has always loved herald wants to see that fire back in her eyes but when tragedy strikes and Jared is landed in a coma and the cheating ex hunter realizes he's made a mistake will April stand by Jared or return to hunter because he's familiar and not been in a coma for months read this amazing book to find out:)
I give it 5 fun filled angsty stars I'm officially In love with Jared and April I could have just kept on reading there story and been perfectly happy !!! This romance starts with childhood friends who grow to young adults April has lost herself lost her fire because of her cheating ex hunter ....enter Jared Hoffman who has always loved herald wants to see that fire back in her eyes but when tragedy strikes and Jared is landed in a coma and the cheating ex hunter realizes he's made a mistake will April stand by Jared or return to hunter because he's familiar and not been in a coma for months read this amazing book to find out:)
March 15, 2015
* I received a copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review. *
This is a great book and a perfect beach read. Who doesn’t love a happy ever after romance. It is sweet, sexy and fun all in one. Jared, the hero is a tough, self-made man who has had to overcome a lot of lifes curve balls however he never loses his first love. April, the heroine is a college girl who is convinced that she must fit into a mold. I loved seeing the romance between April and Jared bloom all while he brings her back to her true self.
This is a great book and a perfect beach read. Who doesn’t love a happy ever after romance. It is sweet, sexy and fun all in one. Jared, the hero is a tough, self-made man who has had to overcome a lot of lifes curve balls however he never loses his first love. April, the heroine is a college girl who is convinced that she must fit into a mold. I loved seeing the romance between April and Jared bloom all while he brings her back to her true self.
May 18, 2015
I had the pleasure of getting an ARC copy of this book in return for a honest review.. All I can say is I am in LOVE! Seriously. I am just head over heals for Jared and he has officially replaced my past loves and become my new book boy friend! Sigh.. The story is so sweet and sexy. It leaves you wanting to fall in love, be loved and to reconsider how you look at love. There are lots of twists and turn in the story line that kept you guessing til the very end. This was an amazing book that I literately was so drawn in that I could not put it down. I would highly recommend it.
April 20, 2015
I just received an advanced copy of Discovering April a couple of days ago. Needless to say, I was totally blown away with the story line. This book had so many twists to it, regarding a childhood friendship that turned into an ever lasting love. They conquered their past fears and a tragic accident that could destroy their future. I'm excited to read other books tied to other characters from this book. This is a great book and a must read if you love romance!!!!
October 19, 2015
I LOVED Discovering April!!! It was such a sweet romance! April is a wonderfully complex main character going through some major life issues. I liked that it wasn't about abuse or cancer, or more depressing issues. The author developed an intensely emotional plot with an epic romance that unraveled in a steady pace.
This was a new adult book worth checking out! I look forward to reading the next book by Sheena Hutchinson! Five glittery stars!
This was a new adult book worth checking out! I look forward to reading the next book by Sheena Hutchinson! Five glittery stars!
March 29, 2015
I found this to be an amazing read that once I started I could not put down no matter what. It moved along at an amazing pace, has awesome characters and a story that wont let you down. This is a must read.
February 13, 2018
1.5 stars
April 26, 2015
Reviewed by Dawn Vickers on behalf of Kindle Friends Forever.
April Landau thinks she has it all. Her high school sweetheart; Hunter, her own home and her cat! April’s about start junior year at college. Hunter and April’s relationship wasn’t perfect and their little arguments were often witnessed by an amused Jared. But after discovering her boyfriend has cheated, April ends it for good and descends into a spiral of emotions and despair.
Jared Hoffman is April’s next door neighbour. They were childhood friends who drifted apart. He dropped out of high school to take over his parents business after they died, their death having a profound effect on him. He keeps himself to himself, doesn’t really mix with anyone and throws himself into his work. However, he’s carting a burden of his own, a secret he’s never told anyone which weighs him down every day.
Jared calls round to find April crying and upset, and slowly the two of them rekindle a lost friendship. Jared has harboured feelings for April for years too. So he helps April rediscover herself and the two of them can no longer deny the feelings that have grown. When tragedy strikes, Aprils emotions are tested once again. Hunter re-enters her life wanting her back, will she revert to type and go back to her old familiar self, or will she embrace a new future with Jared?
This book is told only from April’s point of view and I must confess I would have loved it if Jared had given his. It would have brought so much more to the story. It took a while to get going but once it did, I was hooked. Lots of twists and turns, emotions and of course; love, which all makes for a great story. The character of April I didn’t care for at first, although I think I changed my opinion of her when Jared walked into her life. She changed with him for the better, and Jared… what a man!! He was kind, caring, and sweet but kind of closed off. I loved him straight away. It’s very emotional in parts too which had me filling up!!
Overall, it’s a great read. Sometimes I found it a bit slow, though it did pick up again. The twists and turns will keep you invested in the story holding on till the end and what an ending!!!
April Landau thinks she has it all. Her high school sweetheart; Hunter, her own home and her cat! April’s about start junior year at college. Hunter and April’s relationship wasn’t perfect and their little arguments were often witnessed by an amused Jared. But after discovering her boyfriend has cheated, April ends it for good and descends into a spiral of emotions and despair.
Jared Hoffman is April’s next door neighbour. They were childhood friends who drifted apart. He dropped out of high school to take over his parents business after they died, their death having a profound effect on him. He keeps himself to himself, doesn’t really mix with anyone and throws himself into his work. However, he’s carting a burden of his own, a secret he’s never told anyone which weighs him down every day.
Jared calls round to find April crying and upset, and slowly the two of them rekindle a lost friendship. Jared has harboured feelings for April for years too. So he helps April rediscover herself and the two of them can no longer deny the feelings that have grown. When tragedy strikes, Aprils emotions are tested once again. Hunter re-enters her life wanting her back, will she revert to type and go back to her old familiar self, or will she embrace a new future with Jared?
This book is told only from April’s point of view and I must confess I would have loved it if Jared had given his. It would have brought so much more to the story. It took a while to get going but once it did, I was hooked. Lots of twists and turns, emotions and of course; love, which all makes for a great story. The character of April I didn’t care for at first, although I think I changed my opinion of her when Jared walked into her life. She changed with him for the better, and Jared… what a man!! He was kind, caring, and sweet but kind of closed off. I loved him straight away. It’s very emotional in parts too which had me filling up!!
Overall, it’s a great read. Sometimes I found it a bit slow, though it did pick up again. The twists and turns will keep you invested in the story holding on till the end and what an ending!!!
May 3, 2015
******Nic's Review*****
I was given this Arc for an honest review.
WOW! All I can say is this book was an emotional rollercoaster. The first few chapters had me in tears. April is a college student in love with Hunter. Things are not going well with their relationship. The struggles she endures is gut wrenching. I could so relate with this character and understand her feelings and the utter despair she felt. For April the worse thing was that she lost herself. Jared her childhood friend and next door neighbor is the one to show her who she use to be. Jared will help April find and rediscover who she once was. Before Hunter changed and destroyed her. This book had me laughing in so many different parts and it had me angry. I love it when I am able to lose myself in a book and get so wrapped up in a variety of emotions. This book is one I would highly recommend to family and friends. It's got a little bit of everything and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. I give this a 5 star rating.
****K's Review!**** ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
I struggled to get into this book at first, but I persevered and I'm so glad I did!
This is a sweet romance story with quite a few trips on the old emotional roller coaster!
We meet April as she struggles as a college student living alone and struggling with money. April is going out with a man named Hunter - I disliked this guys character from the start and shouted at my kindle multiple times! There's some definite want to throw your kindle across the room moments! April has a neighbour named Jared they were friends as kids but no longer talk. Jared always seems to be there in the background and helping April when she needs it. Jared and April slowly kindle a romance.
At one point I thought that I could guess where this story was heading but it definitely had some surprises for me that I would never have guessed.
There's moments in this book when I was laughing my head off and moments when I felt completely devastated by what was happening!
All in all a great read and I will definitely be looking for more by this author.
Four stars.
I was given this Arc for an honest review.
WOW! All I can say is this book was an emotional rollercoaster. The first few chapters had me in tears. April is a college student in love with Hunter. Things are not going well with their relationship. The struggles she endures is gut wrenching. I could so relate with this character and understand her feelings and the utter despair she felt. For April the worse thing was that she lost herself. Jared her childhood friend and next door neighbor is the one to show her who she use to be. Jared will help April find and rediscover who she once was. Before Hunter changed and destroyed her. This book had me laughing in so many different parts and it had me angry. I love it when I am able to lose myself in a book and get so wrapped up in a variety of emotions. This book is one I would highly recommend to family and friends. It's got a little bit of everything and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. I give this a 5 star rating.
****K's Review!**** ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
I struggled to get into this book at first, but I persevered and I'm so glad I did!
This is a sweet romance story with quite a few trips on the old emotional roller coaster!
We meet April as she struggles as a college student living alone and struggling with money. April is going out with a man named Hunter - I disliked this guys character from the start and shouted at my kindle multiple times! There's some definite want to throw your kindle across the room moments! April has a neighbour named Jared they were friends as kids but no longer talk. Jared always seems to be there in the background and helping April when she needs it. Jared and April slowly kindle a romance.
At one point I thought that I could guess where this story was heading but it definitely had some surprises for me that I would never have guessed.
There's moments in this book when I was laughing my head off and moments when I felt completely devastated by what was happening!
All in all a great read and I will definitely be looking for more by this author.
Four stars.
April 29, 2015
This was an enjoyable read. This is the story of April and Jared, friends from childhood and next door neighbors, although we know the book starts with the fact that they haven't talked to each other for over 7 years, since the death of Jared's parents. April has been dating Hunter for a long time but starts to wonder if he isn't seeing someone behind her back. Hunter seemed like a jerk from the beginning and I wanted to shake her and tell her not to take him back after each of their fights and break-ups. Because they are neighbors, Jared sees her upset and distraught after each break-up but says nothing. He is very mysterious in the beginning and seems to have a chip on his shoulder, but as the story unfold, we begin to understand why.
Jared is wonderful! I feel in love with him and how thoughtful and caring he was once he opened up and we get to see just who he is.
"See that right there--that smile?" He points his muddy finger towards my face. "Reminds me of the old April. I want to see her again. I may have lost my parents, but I think you lost more than that...you lost yourself."
As they spend more and more time together, we see April re-discovering just who she is now that she has a life beyond Hunter. It is with Jared's help, she figures out who she is.
"And the rose?" I ask breathlessly as my eyes stare, unbelieving. "It's you." He pauses, taking a step closer to me, and I lift my eyes up to his. "Because once you get past the thorns, you're absolutely beautiful."
Just as this story is moving to an HEA, or so I thought, something terrible happens!! I won't divulge anything, but the last quarter of this book made me chew my fingernails off. And I was shocked at Jared's actions! And I loved that the final chapters were from Jared's POV!
I highly recommend this sweet, sassy, yet, angsty read!
I received this copy in exchange for my honest review.
Jared is wonderful! I feel in love with him and how thoughtful and caring he was once he opened up and we get to see just who he is.
"See that right there--that smile?" He points his muddy finger towards my face. "Reminds me of the old April. I want to see her again. I may have lost my parents, but I think you lost more than that...you lost yourself."
As they spend more and more time together, we see April re-discovering just who she is now that she has a life beyond Hunter. It is with Jared's help, she figures out who she is.
"And the rose?" I ask breathlessly as my eyes stare, unbelieving. "It's you." He pauses, taking a step closer to me, and I lift my eyes up to his. "Because once you get past the thorns, you're absolutely beautiful."
Just as this story is moving to an HEA, or so I thought, something terrible happens!! I won't divulge anything, but the last quarter of this book made me chew my fingernails off. And I was shocked at Jared's actions! And I loved that the final chapters were from Jared's POV!
I highly recommend this sweet, sassy, yet, angsty read!
I received this copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 28, 2015
April Landau is about to begin her Junior year of college. She doesn’t have many friends but thinks she has everything she ever wanted. Her high school sweetheart, Hunter, the house her parents signed over to her when they moved out of state, and her tabby cat. She works part-time in the local coffee shop to help pay the bills but that is struggle.
During the school year, things start to fall apart with Hunter. They aren’t as close as they use to be and everything seems to revolve around what he wants. She finally realizes that what she thinks about her relationship with Hunter is what it truly is and she becomes stuck in a downward spiral of emotion, even thinking suicide. She is now struggling to keep her head above water.
Jared Hoffman, April’s next door neighbor and childhood friend that she unfortunately hasn’t spoken to since high school. Jared dropped out of school to take over his dad’s construction business when his parents were killed in a car accident. This tragedy has affected him greatly.
Jared sees April sinking and tries to offer her a friendship and encourages her to find out who she is and what she wants. She needs to discover who she really is. Will her friendship with Jared help her to discover herself and bring her back to life?
I found the book to be slow moving and many times April was very annoying but she is trying to find herself. She needed to be gone from Hunter the first time they broke up. Jared showed her who her old self was. The last several chapters of the book were a very emotional one and boy it was sure a surprise. I loved the old or new and improved April.
The story is told in April’s point of view, which was great but there were several times that I really wanted to know what was going on in Jared’s head. I read and reviewed this book for Kylie’s Fiction Addiction.
During the school year, things start to fall apart with Hunter. They aren’t as close as they use to be and everything seems to revolve around what he wants. She finally realizes that what she thinks about her relationship with Hunter is what it truly is and she becomes stuck in a downward spiral of emotion, even thinking suicide. She is now struggling to keep her head above water.
Jared Hoffman, April’s next door neighbor and childhood friend that she unfortunately hasn’t spoken to since high school. Jared dropped out of school to take over his dad’s construction business when his parents were killed in a car accident. This tragedy has affected him greatly.
Jared sees April sinking and tries to offer her a friendship and encourages her to find out who she is and what she wants. She needs to discover who she really is. Will her friendship with Jared help her to discover herself and bring her back to life?
I found the book to be slow moving and many times April was very annoying but she is trying to find herself. She needed to be gone from Hunter the first time they broke up. Jared showed her who her old self was. The last several chapters of the book were a very emotional one and boy it was sure a surprise. I loved the old or new and improved April.
The story is told in April’s point of view, which was great but there were several times that I really wanted to know what was going on in Jared’s head. I read and reviewed this book for Kylie’s Fiction Addiction.
July 10, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in rxchange for an honest review.
April and Jared have lived next door to one another since they were just kids. As children they were the best of friends. In high school they started to drift apart and then Jared's parents were killed in a car accident and he withdrew from everyone around him. Years later they are still neighbours, though they haven't truly been friends since the accident.
When April's boyfriend breaks up with her she struggles to find her footing and remember who she really is, when she's not just his girlfriend. She surprised, shocked and dismayed to realize that she hasn't recently considered who she was or what she wanted to do with her life.
Jared sees her struggling to move past her lost relationship and decides to help her remember the way she used to be, so that she could remember the girl she was, once upon a time.
I really did enjoy watching the way that April and Jared both evolved through the story. I liked seeing the way they grew up, while also remembering to embrace their inner child and have fun once in a while. And I really loved to watch them fall in love with each other too.
I have to admit that I struggled with reading this book through the first quarter of it. At times it was if the writing was done by a child - the wording, syntax and even the watery plot seemed immature. Then it changed. Almost in time with the evolution of the characters the writing improved. Or it seemed to me it did anyways. There were a couple moments here and there where I'd get that immature feeling again but then I'd turn a page and it was good again. Maybe it was just me, maybe it's a failing of the editing. Either way, in the end DISCOVERING APRIL by Sheena Hutchinson is a very sweet story that I enjoyed reading and am happy to recommend to others.
April and Jared have lived next door to one another since they were just kids. As children they were the best of friends. In high school they started to drift apart and then Jared's parents were killed in a car accident and he withdrew from everyone around him. Years later they are still neighbours, though they haven't truly been friends since the accident.
When April's boyfriend breaks up with her she struggles to find her footing and remember who she really is, when she's not just his girlfriend. She surprised, shocked and dismayed to realize that she hasn't recently considered who she was or what she wanted to do with her life.
Jared sees her struggling to move past her lost relationship and decides to help her remember the way she used to be, so that she could remember the girl she was, once upon a time.
I really did enjoy watching the way that April and Jared both evolved through the story. I liked seeing the way they grew up, while also remembering to embrace their inner child and have fun once in a while. And I really loved to watch them fall in love with each other too.
I have to admit that I struggled with reading this book through the first quarter of it. At times it was if the writing was done by a child - the wording, syntax and even the watery plot seemed immature. Then it changed. Almost in time with the evolution of the characters the writing improved. Or it seemed to me it did anyways. There were a couple moments here and there where I'd get that immature feeling again but then I'd turn a page and it was good again. Maybe it was just me, maybe it's a failing of the editing. Either way, in the end DISCOVERING APRIL by Sheena Hutchinson is a very sweet story that I enjoyed reading and am happy to recommend to others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2015
Where should I start? Maybe I should just say that I had a hard time with this book. Bear in mind, I really, really want to love every single book that I read, and I'm always so let down and disappointed when a book just doesn't do it for me. Reading all the glowing reviews left on Goodreads by other reviewers, I had to wonder if they were reading the same book as me. But to each their own. What works for me may not work for them, and vice-versa.
This book was a DNF for me. I got about a third of the way through Discovering April before I finally realized that I just didn't want to discover anything else. I just couldn't like that character. I'm sure at some point, things may have changed, she may have found herself, grew, learned, etc... but it would have been too little, too late for me.
This is a character that went from zero to screeching in about half a second. I found myself sympathizing with the boyfriend who left her. If someone screeched at me during every conversation, I'd have to be looking elsewhere too, and I am definitely not one who condones cheating. Additionally, there is a moment in there that makes it pretty clear that she has no self-respect, and is pretty cowardly. I just couldn't like her as a character.
The only saving grace for me was Jared, but I couldn't finish the book, even for him, because as much as I loved him, I couldn't understand why he hung around for her. Why did he put himself through her? He had the patience of a saint.
There was nothing wrong with the writing... it all just came down to character for me. And with my issues with the main character, this book just wasn't for me.
This book was a DNF for me. I got about a third of the way through Discovering April before I finally realized that I just didn't want to discover anything else. I just couldn't like that character. I'm sure at some point, things may have changed, she may have found herself, grew, learned, etc... but it would have been too little, too late for me.
This is a character that went from zero to screeching in about half a second. I found myself sympathizing with the boyfriend who left her. If someone screeched at me during every conversation, I'd have to be looking elsewhere too, and I am definitely not one who condones cheating. Additionally, there is a moment in there that makes it pretty clear that she has no self-respect, and is pretty cowardly. I just couldn't like her as a character.
The only saving grace for me was Jared, but I couldn't finish the book, even for him, because as much as I loved him, I couldn't understand why he hung around for her. Why did he put himself through her? He had the patience of a saint.
There was nothing wrong with the writing... it all just came down to character for me. And with my issues with the main character, this book just wasn't for me.
July 31, 2015
In the cover the author show us the real lesson behind this love story.
“Sometimes what you are searching for is right in front of you.”
The book tells the story about Jared and April. They have known each other since they where little kids and they grew up as next door neighbors. When they become teenager a terrible event harper and they stop talking for more than 7 years. Although they both missed each other they grow in their own life. Now that April is in collage and dating her high school sweetheart she starts to have problems she doesn't wants to face, especially with her boyfriend, Hunter.
“No we aren’t, its time we face facts, April we aren't working anymore”
Now with her heart and life broken she faces reality, only to find out that she does know what to do or how to react. As the story goes on April discover that she lost herself with her relationship with Hunter and now the only one that can help her recuperate her normal and unique way is the only person that knows her best, hr next door neighbor.
The most important thing that I love about this book is Jared. I like the fact that he is very thoughtful and caring. The story complete show us the evolution of Jared and you can discover he is a total gentleman.
“April I know you are capable of opening a door or pulling out your own chair. Chivalrous acts are done as a sign of respect to you. Men, real men that is, do these thing for women not because we have to but because to be honored in some small tiny way every single day.”
There are sine actions of the character that seem childish for my taste, but the overall book is awesome and the HEA is great. It is well written and easy to read.
“Sometimes what you are searching for is right in front of you.”
The book tells the story about Jared and April. They have known each other since they where little kids and they grew up as next door neighbors. When they become teenager a terrible event harper and they stop talking for more than 7 years. Although they both missed each other they grow in their own life. Now that April is in collage and dating her high school sweetheart she starts to have problems she doesn't wants to face, especially with her boyfriend, Hunter.
“No we aren’t, its time we face facts, April we aren't working anymore”
Now with her heart and life broken she faces reality, only to find out that she does know what to do or how to react. As the story goes on April discover that she lost herself with her relationship with Hunter and now the only one that can help her recuperate her normal and unique way is the only person that knows her best, hr next door neighbor.
The most important thing that I love about this book is Jared. I like the fact that he is very thoughtful and caring. The story complete show us the evolution of Jared and you can discover he is a total gentleman.
“April I know you are capable of opening a door or pulling out your own chair. Chivalrous acts are done as a sign of respect to you. Men, real men that is, do these thing for women not because we have to but because to be honored in some small tiny way every single day.”
There are sine actions of the character that seem childish for my taste, but the overall book is awesome and the HEA is great. It is well written and easy to read.
April 27, 2015
I received this book from the author as a gift in exchange for an honest review.
April has completely lost her identity and doesn’t even realize it until it’s too late. After years of dating Hunter she has become no more than his girlfriend, she doesn’t know how to be her without him. When she catches him with another girl she tries to leave him, but his kissable lips draw her back in every single time. There were parts that I just wanted to slap April silly, all the signs were there that she was in a horrible relationship and needed out, but she couldn’t seem to break away from being Hunter’s April.
FINALLY things change and Hunter is out of the picture and at this point I found myself wanting to slap her silly again for the way she reacted to their break up. She was beside herself and there was no one there to help her get passed her heartache.
That is until she snapped one day and her neighbor and ex best friend came to her rescue. He helped her find her way back to the girl he knew and the person he’d loved all his life.
I loved Jared I thought him and April were perfect together, but their road wasn’t an easy one. My heart broke for them at one point and I couldn’t read fast enough to see how it would all turn out.
There are a few things I’d like to know that went unanswered in this book, like what happened to April’s boss and Sera with an E? Hopefully there will be a book about that. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I give Discovering April 4.5 Stars!
April has completely lost her identity and doesn’t even realize it until it’s too late. After years of dating Hunter she has become no more than his girlfriend, she doesn’t know how to be her without him. When she catches him with another girl she tries to leave him, but his kissable lips draw her back in every single time. There were parts that I just wanted to slap April silly, all the signs were there that she was in a horrible relationship and needed out, but she couldn’t seem to break away from being Hunter’s April.
FINALLY things change and Hunter is out of the picture and at this point I found myself wanting to slap her silly again for the way she reacted to their break up. She was beside herself and there was no one there to help her get passed her heartache.
That is until she snapped one day and her neighbor and ex best friend came to her rescue. He helped her find her way back to the girl he knew and the person he’d loved all his life.
I loved Jared I thought him and April were perfect together, but their road wasn’t an easy one. My heart broke for them at one point and I couldn’t read fast enough to see how it would all turn out.
There are a few things I’d like to know that went unanswered in this book, like what happened to April’s boss and Sera with an E? Hopefully there will be a book about that. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I give Discovering April 4.5 Stars!
May 2, 2015
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
The book description for Discovering April immediately caught my attention. I love friends to lovers stories and the fact that they were neighbors, even better. Jared and April had been best friends until Jared's parents died and he closed himself off to everyone. Years later, when April's heart is broken, Jared is there to help her pick up the pieces.
For the most part, I liked Jared and April and enjoyed the story. The connection between them was strong, they had great chemistry and the nicknames were cute. I felt Jared's love for April through his words and actions and I developed my own little crush on him!
"Apes, it's always been you. I've been in love with you since the moment I first saw you."~ Jared
"I don't want to be just another guy-because I am the guy for you."~Jared
I did however, have a few issues with the story and felt like there were several unrealistic situations that occurred. One that bothered me the most was when April woke up after her accident- she started pulling needles out of her arm, threatened hospital employees (with no consequences) and walked around on a broken leg. She was then allowed to do whatever she wanted because the staff was so scared of her. Also, aside from one quick scene, her parents were basically absent from her life and she was hardly ever in school or at work. Overall, it was a good story but I felt like the characters and relationships could have been better developed.
Good HEA ending! Loved the cat!!
The book description for Discovering April immediately caught my attention. I love friends to lovers stories and the fact that they were neighbors, even better. Jared and April had been best friends until Jared's parents died and he closed himself off to everyone. Years later, when April's heart is broken, Jared is there to help her pick up the pieces.
For the most part, I liked Jared and April and enjoyed the story. The connection between them was strong, they had great chemistry and the nicknames were cute. I felt Jared's love for April through his words and actions and I developed my own little crush on him!
"Apes, it's always been you. I've been in love with you since the moment I first saw you."~ Jared
"I don't want to be just another guy-because I am the guy for you."~Jared
I did however, have a few issues with the story and felt like there were several unrealistic situations that occurred. One that bothered me the most was when April woke up after her accident- she started pulling needles out of her arm, threatened hospital employees (with no consequences) and walked around on a broken leg. She was then allowed to do whatever she wanted because the staff was so scared of her. Also, aside from one quick scene, her parents were basically absent from her life and she was hardly ever in school or at work. Overall, it was a good story but I felt like the characters and relationships could have been better developed.
Good HEA ending! Loved the cat!!
April 28, 2015
Rating 4.8 stars
I’m so lucky honor won out against preference. When I discovered this book was written in the first person and that it was a young adult, I wanted to stop reading. Especially since I thought the lead female was an immature twit. But for some reason, which I couldn’t remember I had not only agreed to read and review the book. I had actively made the choice. So I forced myself to read on. And was rewarded!
Discovering April is the journey of a young woman named April, finding herself. First she had to lose herself. Remember I said she was a twit. Well she grows up during this journey. Not in age, but in self esteem, and wisdom, leaving the twit behind. This is also a story of love and relationships. Boyfriend - girlfriend, female bonding, and the strengths those friendships can give us. This book touched me on many levels. It made me smile, cry, laugh, give a shout now and then. Most of all it made me glad that I had read it. Even before I finished it, I recommended it to a friend.
As with most YA books, the story was light on stream, but it was heavy on chemistry. The chemistry between Jared and April absolutely sizzles. The story was engrossing and the characters had depth. As did all the supporting characters . In fact, Miss Hutchinson was very good at teasing us with little snippets of Jack and Sera with an E, that I want to go read, no, I need to go read their story….
I was given an eARC of this book for an honest review.
I’m so lucky honor won out against preference. When I discovered this book was written in the first person and that it was a young adult, I wanted to stop reading. Especially since I thought the lead female was an immature twit. But for some reason, which I couldn’t remember I had not only agreed to read and review the book. I had actively made the choice. So I forced myself to read on. And was rewarded!
Discovering April is the journey of a young woman named April, finding herself. First she had to lose herself. Remember I said she was a twit. Well she grows up during this journey. Not in age, but in self esteem, and wisdom, leaving the twit behind. This is also a story of love and relationships. Boyfriend - girlfriend, female bonding, and the strengths those friendships can give us. This book touched me on many levels. It made me smile, cry, laugh, give a shout now and then. Most of all it made me glad that I had read it. Even before I finished it, I recommended it to a friend.
As with most YA books, the story was light on stream, but it was heavy on chemistry. The chemistry between Jared and April absolutely sizzles. The story was engrossing and the characters had depth. As did all the supporting characters . In fact, Miss Hutchinson was very good at teasing us with little snippets of Jack and Sera with an E, that I want to go read, no, I need to go read their story….
I was given an eARC of this book for an honest review.
April 27, 2015
April’s life is crumbling around her. The love of her life has dumped her again and this time she doesn’t think he is coming back. Unable to face him at school, she goes to work and back home barely making it through the day. Living in her family home, she sees the disapproving looks that her neighbor and childhood friend Jared gives her as she comes and goes. She knows she is a mess, but she just doesn’t have the energy to care. When Jared suggests a ride on his motorcycle, April feels lighter and almost free for the first time in months on the back of that bike. Jared reminds her of how fierce, strong and independent she once was and he misses his old friend. While spending time together and re-discovering her old self, April realizes her old friend has feelings for her. She is torn, she knows the future with Jared makes her excited and happy but she is still sad at what she has lost with her ex-boyfriend. When a moment in time changes everything, and her indecisiveness hurts those she cares about, April discovers what she is truly made of. She learns how to fight to get just what she not only wants from life but also what she deserves.
I really enjoyed this book. I was so worried about poor, sweet Jared. I was certain and that she would break his heart at a few parts of the book, I was almost afraid to go on reading it. Loved the epilogue and really enjoyed the book, 4 stars!
I really enjoyed this book. I was so worried about poor, sweet Jared. I was certain and that she would break his heart at a few parts of the book, I was almost afraid to go on reading it. Loved the epilogue and really enjoyed the book, 4 stars!
May 4, 2015
April has everything she thinks she wants; her boyfriend since high school, her childhood home (to herself), a part time job, and a crazy cat.
While April is struggling to make ends meet she refuses to let go. Her relationship is starting to unravel. April keeps turning a blind eye and justifying her boyfriends actions, willing to settle. But finally things come to an end, and April downward spirals... hard. She realizes that she lost herself along the way, her identity became her her boyfriends identity. And she doesn't know how to survive and put herself back together again.
Jared has been April's next door neighbor since they were little, but along the way in the process of growing up, they went their separate ways.
Jared and April start to reconnect and reminisce about their past, all the while helping April to see who she really is. Just as things seem to be on the up and up...
A "holy shitballs! I didn't see that coming!" moment occurs.
This story flowed making April a believable main character. Who hasn't been in that position of ending things with your first love, the first person you had sex with. The pull and push of justifications of that relationship were true. And Jared... the best friend (and more) you could ever ask for.
What happens? Go one-click to find out! You won't be dissapointed.
While April is struggling to make ends meet she refuses to let go. Her relationship is starting to unravel. April keeps turning a blind eye and justifying her boyfriends actions, willing to settle. But finally things come to an end, and April downward spirals... hard. She realizes that she lost herself along the way, her identity became her her boyfriends identity. And she doesn't know how to survive and put herself back together again.
Jared has been April's next door neighbor since they were little, but along the way in the process of growing up, they went their separate ways.
Jared and April start to reconnect and reminisce about their past, all the while helping April to see who she really is. Just as things seem to be on the up and up...
A "holy shitballs! I didn't see that coming!" moment occurs.
This story flowed making April a believable main character. Who hasn't been in that position of ending things with your first love, the first person you had sex with. The pull and push of justifications of that relationship were true. And Jared... the best friend (and more) you could ever ask for.
What happens? Go one-click to find out! You won't be dissapointed.
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