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Reckless
‘Are you going to ask me in?’ he replied, a cheeky smile forming on the edges of his lips. Then he leaned towards me conspiratorially. ‘We aren’t strangers, you know.’
Milly Benton wants it all to go away. Wants to flip the bird to the nightmares and her parent’s grief and the incessant questions about when she’s going to make something of herself.
But when her parents exile her to the country, Milly has to cope with her annoyingly helpful aunt and three cousins instead. Bitter at the hand she’s been dealt, Milly has stopped dreaming of a future.
In steps Jerome with his tormented blue eyes. Familiar from her childhood and as broken as she. They need each other. But how can they forget?
Milly Benton wants it all to go away. Wants to flip the bird to the nightmares and her parent’s grief and the incessant questions about when she’s going to make something of herself.
But when her parents exile her to the country, Milly has to cope with her annoyingly helpful aunt and three cousins instead. Bitter at the hand she’s been dealt, Milly has stopped dreaming of a future.
In steps Jerome with his tormented blue eyes. Familiar from her childhood and as broken as she. They need each other. But how can they forget?
- GenresContemporaryNew Adult
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2013
363 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Weiler
5 books33 followersFrom the time Danielle could hold a pen, she has written. On the bunk-bed in pink texta, the vowels in her name backwards; storybooks stapled together with coloured paper; diaries with and without mini padlocks; social articles for the university newspaper; all finally culminating into novel-writing. Her debut YA novel, Friendship on Fire, was published in 2011. Her second, a YA/NA crossover called Reckless, was published in 2013. Danielle lives in Perth, Western Australia, with her non-vampire husband Edward, naughty toddler Ezra and rejected ranga cat, Ginger.
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August 10, 2013
My review can also be found on my blog Collections.
After reading and liking Danielle Weiler's debut Friendship on Fire last year, I asked her in an interview about Reckless (which had a slightly different title back then). I remember being really intrigued by it because not only did I love reading Australian novels, I was also a fan of new adult books. My love for Australia and new adult still hasn't changed, so it's no surprise that I was very much excited to start reading Reckless.
The story revolved around Milly, a 19-year-old girl trying to move on from the nightmares and grief that have consumed her life for the past two years since the death of her twin brother Christian. The way Milly coped with the tragedy was by being rebellious. She acted out and did irresponsible and thoughtless things like shoplifting and hooking up with a strange man she just met online. Milly's choices and decisions in the beginning of the book didn't make her the most likeable person to the people around her. As a reader, I couldn't bring myself to dislike her because it was evident that deep down this was not the type of person she wanted to be. I had no idea where her life was headed, and all I could do was root for her and hope for the best.
What I appreciated about Reckless was that, while it may have contained heartbreak like death and regret, it wasn't entirely a sad or depressing book. It actually was a light and fast-paced read. It had humorous and fun moments, and I enjoyed reading the dynamics between Milly and her little sister and her three all-boy cousins. I also really liked the relationship she shared with her aunt Charmaine and her new friend Shelia. I was relieved that Milly was able to get along with them, considering her relationships with two important women in her life back home weren't the greatest. All these characters played a role in Milly's life whether it was major or minor, and these relationships proved she had the ability to grow and mature.
I can't forget to mention my favorite relationship in the book: Milly and Jerome. The interesting thing about it was that Jerome was Christian's best friend, and Milly hadn't seen him since her brother's death. Even though they weren't particularly close when Christian was alive, I loved how easy it was for them to build a friendship. They seemed content around each other. Of course, though, nothing is ever that simple. After they began to fall for each other, things became complicated, and I was sadden by how things were turning out for them. There were some surprise chapters from Jerome's perspective near the end, and I was glad to have gotten those. At the same time, it made me wish there had been more insight from him because he was such a sweet guy and I thought he deserved to be happy right along with Milly.
As I've indicated before, Reckless had some hard-hitting moments, but it was not a hard read at all and it's quick to get through. It was filled with all the lows and highs Milly was experiencing in her life, and by the end, it left me with a sense of hope for her and everyone she cared about. I definitely felt like I got the closure I needed. Reckless is the second book by Danielle Weiler that I've enjoyed, and I can't wait to read whatever she plans next.
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November 27, 2013I really, really wanted to enjoy this story. It sounded so promising and the storyline was actually really good. My problems with it came in the form of the characters. I can't say that I liked any of them. And I had a real dislike for the stories main character Milly. I understand that she is grieving the loss of her twin brother, but her complete disregard for anyone else's feelings was really hard to fathom. She is rude and disrespectful to everyone. The supporting characters weren't a whole lot better. Her parents really offered her no support and her best friend was anything but.
I read to about two thirds of the way in when I had to put the book aside. Had Milly have had more redeeming qualities I would have really enjoyed the story because the authors writing is really quite good. I really wanted to see the impact that Jerome would have on her but for the time being I just couldn't be in Milly's head any more.
Will I come back to the story? Quite possibly at a later time just to see if there are any changes in Milly's attitude. No star rating at the moment since the book is unfinished.
I read to about two thirds of the way in when I had to put the book aside. Had Milly have had more redeeming qualities I would have really enjoyed the story because the authors writing is really quite good. I really wanted to see the impact that Jerome would have on her but for the time being I just couldn't be in Milly's head any more.
Will I come back to the story? Quite possibly at a later time just to see if there are any changes in Milly's attitude. No star rating at the moment since the book is unfinished.
December 10, 2018
Reckless starts out with showing us a little bit about how Milly is trying to deal with her twin brother passing away. Which is to say she's really not dealing at all. She's making stupid choices, and doing dangerous things, mainly reckless behavior. That is until on mistakes has her parents sending her to live with her aunt and cousins on a farm. Milly hates this idea, and thinks everyone is out to get her.
But while she's on the farm she actually starts to make a few friends. She also enjoys spending time with her cousins. Not only that but she meets a boy who was a huge part of her past. They start to form a friendship, and maybe a little bit more as well. All of this is going Milly is still just trying to figure out what she's suppose to do now that her brother is gone.
I have to say the story was good, and I loved how it was written. But I didn't really care much for Milly. She got on my nerves a lot. I understood a lot of how she acted, but I think she took everything way to far. It really bothered me how she acted. Other than that it was okay. I enjoyed Jerome, and the other side characters as well. Especially Milly's aunt, she was awesome!
But while she's on the farm she actually starts to make a few friends. She also enjoys spending time with her cousins. Not only that but she meets a boy who was a huge part of her past. They start to form a friendship, and maybe a little bit more as well. All of this is going Milly is still just trying to figure out what she's suppose to do now that her brother is gone.
I have to say the story was good, and I loved how it was written. But I didn't really care much for Milly. She got on my nerves a lot. I understood a lot of how she acted, but I think she took everything way to far. It really bothered me how she acted. Other than that it was okay. I enjoyed Jerome, and the other side characters as well. Especially Milly's aunt, she was awesome!
November 7, 2013
“Is it possible that the person who caused you pain, could be the only one able to bring you out of it?”–Milly
Almost two years after the death of her twin brother, nineteen year-old Milly and her family are still lost in grief. Milly becomes reckless, living in the now without consequences to the future while her parents quietly struggle with their own pain. When her parents can’t ignore Milly’s reckless behavior any longer, they send her to the country for a change of scenery. While in the middle of nowhere, Milly runs into an important person from her past, and suddenly the future seems like something to look forward to…
“Not a friend, not dating, not an acquaintance, not a stranger. Who was he then?”–Milly
This was such a wonderful story of a lost soul coming to grips with losing her other twin half while learning about acceptance and forgiveness. The last two-thirds of the book is so fantastic as we watch Milly, under the kind but firm hand of her Aunt, slowly pick up the pieces of her life as she deals with the grief of losing her brother Christian. Since Millie and Christian were so close, losing him still gives her nightmares and saying his name even brings her pain. When she reconnects with Jerome, Christian’s best friend, the story gets even better as he helps her not only deal with her grief but also encourages her to not lose hope because of her reckless past and go back to living her life, starting with joining the university.
The characters were great, especially Aunt Charmaine and Milly’s darling little sister Rose. The interactions between Milly and all the characters were believable, and I really felt bad for the situation between the two sisters. Rose idealizes Milly, but Millie feels inept at watching over her since she feels that Christian was better at being with Rose. At the same time, she loves her, and it’s sad to read Milly try to stop Rose from taking the same reckless path as her while Milly still can’t figure out how to stop grieving to be like she used to be. As for their parents, I also felt bad for them since they physically lost one child and don’t know how to stop from emotionally losing another one.
While I really enjoyed the last two-thirds of the book, I didn’t like the first third since we basically watch Millie’s decline that causes her parents to snap out of their apathy and try to deal with Millie’s reckless behavior. It felt like watching a slow motion train-wreck. I’m glad I stuck through that first part since it gave the background needed for the later parts of the book. I do wish that section could have been weaved in as flashbacks instead so that we could have gone straight into the healing part without having to experience so much of the decent. However, there were many flashbacks to moments with Christian and short segments that she talked to Christian that I wish could have been weaved into the story through dialogue or internal reminiscing instead of actual scene breaks. The jumping back and forth took me out of the story since we were switching so much.
This is a great example of the New Adult genre since aside from dealing with Christian’s death, she also has to figure out what to do with the rest of her life. Being focused so much in her family’s loss, she works jobs she doesn’t like while ignoring her Aunt’s suggestions that she look at going to college. I love Jerome for being so supportive and helping Milly with this struggle. I should also point out that the romance heat level in this book is low. While there is mention of sex, there isn’t anything graphic. Last thing to note is that this is set in Australia so there were some terms I wasn’t familiar with but could figure out.
Overall, if you like character-driven stories with serious issues such as coping with grief, depression, mental illness and its consequences, and reckless behavior, you should check this one out! This is a 3 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Almost two years after the death of her twin brother, nineteen year-old Milly and her family are still lost in grief. Milly becomes reckless, living in the now without consequences to the future while her parents quietly struggle with their own pain. When her parents can’t ignore Milly’s reckless behavior any longer, they send her to the country for a change of scenery. While in the middle of nowhere, Milly runs into an important person from her past, and suddenly the future seems like something to look forward to…
“Not a friend, not dating, not an acquaintance, not a stranger. Who was he then?”–Milly
This was such a wonderful story of a lost soul coming to grips with losing her other twin half while learning about acceptance and forgiveness. The last two-thirds of the book is so fantastic as we watch Milly, under the kind but firm hand of her Aunt, slowly pick up the pieces of her life as she deals with the grief of losing her brother Christian. Since Millie and Christian were so close, losing him still gives her nightmares and saying his name even brings her pain. When she reconnects with Jerome, Christian’s best friend, the story gets even better as he helps her not only deal with her grief but also encourages her to not lose hope because of her reckless past and go back to living her life, starting with joining the university.
The characters were great, especially Aunt Charmaine and Milly’s darling little sister Rose. The interactions between Milly and all the characters were believable, and I really felt bad for the situation between the two sisters. Rose idealizes Milly, but Millie feels inept at watching over her since she feels that Christian was better at being with Rose. At the same time, she loves her, and it’s sad to read Milly try to stop Rose from taking the same reckless path as her while Milly still can’t figure out how to stop grieving to be like she used to be. As for their parents, I also felt bad for them since they physically lost one child and don’t know how to stop from emotionally losing another one.
While I really enjoyed the last two-thirds of the book, I didn’t like the first third since we basically watch Millie’s decline that causes her parents to snap out of their apathy and try to deal with Millie’s reckless behavior. It felt like watching a slow motion train-wreck. I’m glad I stuck through that first part since it gave the background needed for the later parts of the book. I do wish that section could have been weaved in as flashbacks instead so that we could have gone straight into the healing part without having to experience so much of the decent. However, there were many flashbacks to moments with Christian and short segments that she talked to Christian that I wish could have been weaved into the story through dialogue or internal reminiscing instead of actual scene breaks. The jumping back and forth took me out of the story since we were switching so much.
This is a great example of the New Adult genre since aside from dealing with Christian’s death, she also has to figure out what to do with the rest of her life. Being focused so much in her family’s loss, she works jobs she doesn’t like while ignoring her Aunt’s suggestions that she look at going to college. I love Jerome for being so supportive and helping Milly with this struggle. I should also point out that the romance heat level in this book is low. While there is mention of sex, there isn’t anything graphic. Last thing to note is that this is set in Australia so there were some terms I wasn’t familiar with but could figure out.
Overall, if you like character-driven stories with serious issues such as coping with grief, depression, mental illness and its consequences, and reckless behavior, you should check this one out! This is a 3 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
January 28, 2015
Reckless tells the story of Milly, living a life of chaos whilst she and her family are still suffering from the death of her twin brother. Milly makes bad choice after bad choice and did have me tearing my hair out with frustration for the first half of Reckless.
I disliked all the characters so much that I could have stopped reading before I’d reached halfway, but something told me this book was worth continuing and I’m so glad I did!
Reckless picked up as soon as Milly’s parents sent her to live with Aunt Charmaine and her cousins, in the hope that it would force Milly to right her wrongs and make something of herself.
Character wise, Danielle Weiler wrote so well. She did a great job of changing my opinion from hating Milly for being so moody and nasty, with little ambition; ‘How could this girl, ugly and boring, know what she wanted out of life and I didn’t?’ to liking her and rooting for her right to the end.
I thought Reckless developed really well. There were a few twists which I had kind of expected at some point but by the time they actually happened, I’d been so engrossed in the story that they came as a shock to me.
Danielle made it all quite believable too – nothing was too rushed or too ridiculous for me to imagine it happening in real life.
And then there was Jerome…
I know it’s random, but I liked the way he stood. The way he spoke to people. He was different from playing the part of “Christian’s friend” years ago. I don’t know why I ever thought he’d be the same. I liked his scruffy hair. I liked his dress sense. I liked that he knew what he wanted. I liked that he tried to understand me.
Maybe what you really like, is him, my mind told me, and I frowned.
Come on, don’t we all want a guy like Jerome?! I loved his character and his story. However, I did feel like Reckless could have either switched to his perspective more often, or not at all. I think twice the story went from Milly’s thoughts to his, and it all seemed a bit out of the blue.
Overall, despite the start of the book which I struggled to get into, I really enjoyed Reckless. This is the first novel I’ve read by Danielle Weiler, but I know I’ll be back for more.
4/5.
(review also seen on my blog http://beentherereadthatreviewedthebo...)
I disliked all the characters so much that I could have stopped reading before I’d reached halfway, but something told me this book was worth continuing and I’m so glad I did!
Reckless picked up as soon as Milly’s parents sent her to live with Aunt Charmaine and her cousins, in the hope that it would force Milly to right her wrongs and make something of herself.
Character wise, Danielle Weiler wrote so well. She did a great job of changing my opinion from hating Milly for being so moody and nasty, with little ambition; ‘How could this girl, ugly and boring, know what she wanted out of life and I didn’t?’ to liking her and rooting for her right to the end.
I thought Reckless developed really well. There were a few twists which I had kind of expected at some point but by the time they actually happened, I’d been so engrossed in the story that they came as a shock to me.
Danielle made it all quite believable too – nothing was too rushed or too ridiculous for me to imagine it happening in real life.
And then there was Jerome…
I know it’s random, but I liked the way he stood. The way he spoke to people. He was different from playing the part of “Christian’s friend” years ago. I don’t know why I ever thought he’d be the same. I liked his scruffy hair. I liked his dress sense. I liked that he knew what he wanted. I liked that he tried to understand me.
Maybe what you really like, is him, my mind told me, and I frowned.
Come on, don’t we all want a guy like Jerome?! I loved his character and his story. However, I did feel like Reckless could have either switched to his perspective more often, or not at all. I think twice the story went from Milly’s thoughts to his, and it all seemed a bit out of the blue.
Overall, despite the start of the book which I struggled to get into, I really enjoyed Reckless. This is the first novel I’ve read by Danielle Weiler, but I know I’ll be back for more.
4/5.
(review also seen on my blog http://beentherereadthatreviewedthebo...)
November 10, 2013
I really liked the book and I think it would be appropriate for all young who would think that the problems they face are the biggest in the world (do not we all believe that?).
The changes that are imposed or rather the misfortunes that can befall on somebody can transform for the worse that person. Shallow distortions or not, they can turn the life path and the way that our heroine Milly took is not the best to follow.
Indulging loss and without the (direct) help or empathy of her parents that themselves fail to manage what the fate has given them to bear, Milly gets to give up too easily on everything that defines her. However, to put down one’s foot can bring benefits and reignites the hope when everything seems pointless. The first part of the book presents the "monster" Molly that seems to be a deplorable human being, but as the author asks you, you must continue to read! The true Molly can be seen through the nightmares that haunt her and her hidden thoughts. You cannot not understand her and hope that she will find her peace of mind, the strength to overcome the torment and move on, even when the things may seem at one point worse than were at the beginning.
One successful thing is that the author managed to put face to face two kinds of love. The experiences and feelings from the first part of the book are totally different from those experienced in Armidale, and Jerome’s importance is indicated by the chapters (two, I think) in which we receive his point of view.
I also liked how the author keeps the balance: she doesn’t give us a blunt representation of facts, but neither falls into a cheap or exaggerated patheticalness. It is that middle able to draw many warning signals as lyrically as they are powerfully. Even if is based on a sad event and its aftermath, the story has a good pace and is not a soupy one – we will find even a bit of humor.
Reckless is that kind of book that deserves to talk about it with someone who has already read it, to exchange ideas and comment on a particular passage, a particular decision ... how the past returns somehow to correct more or less its mistakes and to give Molly a ... I was about to say a consolation, but better said would be a new chance, a new life.
The changes that are imposed or rather the misfortunes that can befall on somebody can transform for the worse that person. Shallow distortions or not, they can turn the life path and the way that our heroine Milly took is not the best to follow.
Indulging loss and without the (direct) help or empathy of her parents that themselves fail to manage what the fate has given them to bear, Milly gets to give up too easily on everything that defines her. However, to put down one’s foot can bring benefits and reignites the hope when everything seems pointless. The first part of the book presents the "monster" Molly that seems to be a deplorable human being, but as the author asks you, you must continue to read! The true Molly can be seen through the nightmares that haunt her and her hidden thoughts. You cannot not understand her and hope that she will find her peace of mind, the strength to overcome the torment and move on, even when the things may seem at one point worse than were at the beginning.
One successful thing is that the author managed to put face to face two kinds of love. The experiences and feelings from the first part of the book are totally different from those experienced in Armidale, and Jerome’s importance is indicated by the chapters (two, I think) in which we receive his point of view.
I also liked how the author keeps the balance: she doesn’t give us a blunt representation of facts, but neither falls into a cheap or exaggerated patheticalness. It is that middle able to draw many warning signals as lyrically as they are powerfully. Even if is based on a sad event and its aftermath, the story has a good pace and is not a soupy one – we will find even a bit of humor.
Reckless is that kind of book that deserves to talk about it with someone who has already read it, to exchange ideas and comment on a particular passage, a particular decision ... how the past returns somehow to correct more or less its mistakes and to give Molly a ... I was about to say a consolation, but better said would be a new chance, a new life.
August 29, 2013
I have yet to fully jump on the NA band wagon, but the few NA books I have read are slowly converting me. Reckless by Danielle Weiler being one of them. Reckless is story about love and forgiveness. Milly's brother Christian has died and her family seems to be one big black hole of grief and bitterness.
For me, I found Milly to be a very unlikable character. Even though she has lost her brother, I found I held no sympathy for her. She is rude, blunt, slightly wild and has no direction in life. Her constant bad choices will have you asking why and you may even feel like putting the book down, but don't. You will find small insights into her character that will have you realising she hides behind a wall of indifference. These small little moments give you hope for her.
Milly's story doesn't really begin until her parents send her away to live on her aunts farm. This is when you'll find yourself flipping though the pages to see how she's going. Her journey from being a bitter and broken young woman is not easy or pretty. Her overly helpful aunt and slightly annoying younger cousins all help to show her that life is worth so much more than she can see. I loved reading about Milly's metamorphosis.
Jerome. A boy she used to know, who's just as damaged as her. Their romance is slow but real. At first they find friendship with each other, Christian being the glue that binds them. Jerome is one of those good guys; the kind, caring, and supportive type who stick by you no matter how ugly your life seems to be. The romance is sweet and you can't help but hope they find happiness together. There is a revelation though that could tear them apart and I think this is when Milly realises that even if life is hard it can also be beautiful.
This is the second book I have read and reviewed for Danielle Weiler and I can't wait to see what she has coming up next. Danielle's books are a breathe of fresh air. I suggest you add her to your TBR.
For me, I found Milly to be a very unlikable character. Even though she has lost her brother, I found I held no sympathy for her. She is rude, blunt, slightly wild and has no direction in life. Her constant bad choices will have you asking why and you may even feel like putting the book down, but don't. You will find small insights into her character that will have you realising she hides behind a wall of indifference. These small little moments give you hope for her.
Milly's story doesn't really begin until her parents send her away to live on her aunts farm. This is when you'll find yourself flipping though the pages to see how she's going. Her journey from being a bitter and broken young woman is not easy or pretty. Her overly helpful aunt and slightly annoying younger cousins all help to show her that life is worth so much more than she can see. I loved reading about Milly's metamorphosis.
Jerome. A boy she used to know, who's just as damaged as her. Their romance is slow but real. At first they find friendship with each other, Christian being the glue that binds them. Jerome is one of those good guys; the kind, caring, and supportive type who stick by you no matter how ugly your life seems to be. The romance is sweet and you can't help but hope they find happiness together. There is a revelation though that could tear them apart and I think this is when Milly realises that even if life is hard it can also be beautiful.
This is the second book I have read and reviewed for Danielle Weiler and I can't wait to see what she has coming up next. Danielle's books are a breathe of fresh air. I suggest you add her to your TBR.
January 2, 2014
Did I enjoy this book: This book was alright. Did I enjoy it? Not really. Did I keep reading it? Yes.
First, I didn’t realize this book was set in Australia or written by an Australian writer when I started reading this book. It took a little while to get into that language and rhythm. Once I got in the groove, it was fine.
I understand that everyone experiences grief differently. I just never understood the whole “I’m going to do everything and anything to tick off my family and everyone around me because I have a great excuse” way of dealing with grief. Milly is 19 years old. She’s old enough to realize that she isn’t the only one hurting and that she is hurting her family.
I kept expecting something more out of this book. All the way to the end, I was wanting something more. I felt so bad for Milly throughout but I was angry with her as well. She just didn’t make much sense to me. I really liked her aunt Charmaine. She had her head together and knew how to get to Milly. She was there but didn’t push. She was what Milly needed. I felt bad for Rose. She was left behind yet she seemed to get it the most.
Why 3 stars? It was a decent story. I couldn’t really fault it. It just wasn’t for me. It just didn’t resonate. This is a topic that should resonate. It should be powerful. This just didn’t hit that mark for me.
Would I recommend it: I don’t know. If you like angsty new adult books, then yes, check this one out. If you’re tired of the “I’m out of control because I lost someone and know one understands me and know one cares,” then don’t read this book.
Will I read it again: I will not.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2013/12/re...
First, I didn’t realize this book was set in Australia or written by an Australian writer when I started reading this book. It took a little while to get into that language and rhythm. Once I got in the groove, it was fine.
I understand that everyone experiences grief differently. I just never understood the whole “I’m going to do everything and anything to tick off my family and everyone around me because I have a great excuse” way of dealing with grief. Milly is 19 years old. She’s old enough to realize that she isn’t the only one hurting and that she is hurting her family.
I kept expecting something more out of this book. All the way to the end, I was wanting something more. I felt so bad for Milly throughout but I was angry with her as well. She just didn’t make much sense to me. I really liked her aunt Charmaine. She had her head together and knew how to get to Milly. She was there but didn’t push. She was what Milly needed. I felt bad for Rose. She was left behind yet she seemed to get it the most.
Why 3 stars? It was a decent story. I couldn’t really fault it. It just wasn’t for me. It just didn’t resonate. This is a topic that should resonate. It should be powerful. This just didn’t hit that mark for me.
Would I recommend it: I don’t know. If you like angsty new adult books, then yes, check this one out. If you’re tired of the “I’m out of control because I lost someone and know one understands me and know one cares,” then don’t read this book.
Will I read it again: I will not.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2013/12/re...
November 1, 2013
I honestly started out the first few pages of the book wondering if I was truly going to like this one. Before I got further into it, really started to see what made Milly tick, I wasn’t sure how I was going to find any sympathy for this character. Then I got more into it, figured out what was behind all of her anger and “I don’t give a crap” attitude and I started to understand what was driving this character.
When she was with the first guy, I wanted to smack her for her stupidity. I honestly could not believe she did what she did with someone who was such a slime ball, at least to me as a reader. I have to admit, if that was one of my daughters, I would have exiled her to the country too and then I would have gotten myself into a counselor to get my head on straight.
Then in steps Jerome, a reminder of the past, of something tragic, of something she has been trying to bury. The first fight she picked with him, I didn’t understand. I don’t think she did either, so it is all good. She still had all this stuff to work through and it just came bubbling out.
Jerome was a really good guy, patient, kind and understanding. He was kind of the balance for me, the steadiness next to Milly’s I don’t care about anyone attitude.
Her best friend Ava was someone I really didn’t like, until we got to the part that made feel guilty for not liking her. Ava seemed like the bad influence on Milly until you realize that birds of a feather do their flocking thing.
Great book. I enjoyed it once I really got to know what was going on in Milly’s mind and there were some strong characters involved to give me a bit of hope for her.
When she was with the first guy, I wanted to smack her for her stupidity. I honestly could not believe she did what she did with someone who was such a slime ball, at least to me as a reader. I have to admit, if that was one of my daughters, I would have exiled her to the country too and then I would have gotten myself into a counselor to get my head on straight.
Then in steps Jerome, a reminder of the past, of something tragic, of something she has been trying to bury. The first fight she picked with him, I didn’t understand. I don’t think she did either, so it is all good. She still had all this stuff to work through and it just came bubbling out.
Jerome was a really good guy, patient, kind and understanding. He was kind of the balance for me, the steadiness next to Milly’s I don’t care about anyone attitude.
Her best friend Ava was someone I really didn’t like, until we got to the part that made feel guilty for not liking her. Ava seemed like the bad influence on Milly until you realize that birds of a feather do their flocking thing.
Great book. I enjoyed it once I really got to know what was going on in Milly’s mind and there were some strong characters involved to give me a bit of hope for her.
October 30, 2013
*Given a review copy for a blog tour in exchange for an honest review.*
The loss of Milly's twin has left her and the rest of her family reeling. Directionless and unsure of her place in the world, Milly has taken to apathy in virtually every aspect of her life, most of all at home. When her detachment goes a step to far and lands her in trouble, Milly finds herself shipped of to her aunt and uncle's farm to make sure she stays out of it.
Milly's hard to like at first. Before we get her full back story, there's a lot of anger and not a lot of clear reasons why. She makes horrible decisions, is harsh to the people that love her, and generally acts obnoxious. Gradually, we're given little nuggets that show us what she's really feeling, what she's been through. You start to feel for her a little more. But it takes going to her aunt's and seeing her away from the ghosts that haunt her for Milly to really become someone worth rooting for.
Her relationship with Jerome was sweet and full of comfort. For me, it lacked epic-ness, which I feel all NA books try to portray, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's a gentle romance that's full of friendship and support and can warm your heart without setting fires of either the good or bad kind.
Overall, I enjoyed Reckless. It was slow to get started and the pacing felt rough at times, but the story of a an entire group of people finally healing is sweet and heartwarming. Reckless is a great choice for fans of NA and redemption-style stories.
The loss of Milly's twin has left her and the rest of her family reeling. Directionless and unsure of her place in the world, Milly has taken to apathy in virtually every aspect of her life, most of all at home. When her detachment goes a step to far and lands her in trouble, Milly finds herself shipped of to her aunt and uncle's farm to make sure she stays out of it.
Milly's hard to like at first. Before we get her full back story, there's a lot of anger and not a lot of clear reasons why. She makes horrible decisions, is harsh to the people that love her, and generally acts obnoxious. Gradually, we're given little nuggets that show us what she's really feeling, what she's been through. You start to feel for her a little more. But it takes going to her aunt's and seeing her away from the ghosts that haunt her for Milly to really become someone worth rooting for.
Her relationship with Jerome was sweet and full of comfort. For me, it lacked epic-ness, which I feel all NA books try to portray, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's a gentle romance that's full of friendship and support and can warm your heart without setting fires of either the good or bad kind.
Overall, I enjoyed Reckless. It was slow to get started and the pacing felt rough at times, but the story of a an entire group of people finally healing is sweet and heartwarming. Reckless is a great choice for fans of NA and redemption-style stories.
October 18, 2013
Have you ever struggled through a book and then find that it does pick up eventually , but it takes a bit more effort to get stuck into it ? This is what happened with Danielle's book "Reckless" as I started it and after the second page , it wasn't really me and I normally would have put it down and stopped reading it. However knowing it was a VBT# I thought Ok, I'll persevere with this one and in one way I am glad I did as after the first couple of chapters the book's pace does pick up. It made me think that maybe after the second chapter, the author found her mojo and started writing a great book. Reckless tells the story of Milly , whose twin brother has passed away - not coping with the death of her twin she has resorted to playing up and being well..... "Reckless". Her parents are at the end of their tethers with her so they send her to her Aunt's in a small country wop-wop place hoping that a change of scenery and people will straighten her out and change her ways. Give her hope and life to move on with her brother's death. As usual, with the New Adult books there is a guy and in Reckless the guy's name is Jerome , which has now given me a different image as I always assumed that Jerome tended to be a black character's name. Like another trend with New Adult books, both characters are damaged - but can they help each other find their way back into reality and onto the straight and narrow paths ?
Find out in Reckless by Danielle Weiler - good if you are wanting a New Adult Fix.
Find out in Reckless by Danielle Weiler - good if you are wanting a New Adult Fix.
April 27, 2016
Original review at Gabic Reads as part of the Reckless Blog Tour.
At first, my feelings about Reckless were meh. But as the story went on, I came to appreciate Milly's struggle. Her brother was dead and she felt like her parents despised her for being the twin that was still alive. She didn't a have a place she belonged. She only had a manipulative best friend, a jerk of a "boyfriend," a sister who reminded Milly of her brother, and parents she thought hated her. Seems like a crappy life, right?
Milly didn't like to confront her problems. All she did was run away or ignore them. That really bothered me about her character. She also never admitted that anything was her fault. It was always someone else's fault. I liked the character of Jerome. He was sweet and you could tell he was hurting from what had happened.He just wanted to heal, both himself and Milly.
Reckless is an emotional read and definitely worth the time. It deals with a lot of hard issues that most authors don't like to write about. Check it out :)
At first, my feelings about Reckless were meh. But as the story went on, I came to appreciate Milly's struggle. Her brother was dead and she felt like her parents despised her for being the twin that was still alive. She didn't a have a place she belonged. She only had a manipulative best friend, a jerk of a "boyfriend," a sister who reminded Milly of her brother, and parents she thought hated her. Seems like a crappy life, right?
Milly didn't like to confront her problems. All she did was run away or ignore them. That really bothered me about her character. She also never admitted that anything was her fault. It was always someone else's fault. I liked the character of Jerome. He was sweet and you could tell he was hurting from what had happened.He just wanted to heal, both himself and Milly.
Reckless is an emotional read and definitely worth the time. It deals with a lot of hard issues that most authors don't like to write about. Check it out :)
October 23, 2013
"Things change. People change."
Milly has a hard time coping with her brothers dead and has resorted to reckless and at times dangerous behavior. When her parents has had enough they pretty much send her to exile, to go from the beaches to farmland county to live with her aunt. Her mother made it clear that she is not to be back until she fixed herself. Life in the country is not what she expected, and find that she enjoys it more than she thought, then she accidentally bumps into a guy from her past. Theres an attraction they both have towards each other, but there is also a secret that can separate them. Will they last through the big secret?
"Is it possible that the person who caused you pain, could be the only one able to bring you out of it?"
This book is filled with heartbreak, guilt and bad decisions. This book was fun and fast paced. I liked all the characters even if Milly seemed to annoy me a lot throughout the book. I liked that towards the ended we get the POV of Jerome. I liked that Milly was learned to grow up and get past her brothers death. This book was well written and very enjoyable.
Overall this book is about letting go the past and learning to go on. 4 of 5 Stars!
Milly has a hard time coping with her brothers dead and has resorted to reckless and at times dangerous behavior. When her parents has had enough they pretty much send her to exile, to go from the beaches to farmland county to live with her aunt. Her mother made it clear that she is not to be back until she fixed herself. Life in the country is not what she expected, and find that she enjoys it more than she thought, then she accidentally bumps into a guy from her past. Theres an attraction they both have towards each other, but there is also a secret that can separate them. Will they last through the big secret?
"Is it possible that the person who caused you pain, could be the only one able to bring you out of it?"
This book is filled with heartbreak, guilt and bad decisions. This book was fun and fast paced. I liked all the characters even if Milly seemed to annoy me a lot throughout the book. I liked that towards the ended we get the POV of Jerome. I liked that Milly was learned to grow up and get past her brothers death. This book was well written and very enjoyable.
Overall this book is about letting go the past and learning to go on. 4 of 5 Stars!
August 1, 2013
One of the things I like most about Danielle’s books is that her writing feel real. You can relate and feel sympathetic about the characters, even when you don’t like them. That was how I felt about Milly, I hated that girl for at least the first half of the book. Still, I could totally understand her and why she did what she did and was so reckless, even if I didn’t agree with it.
Pierre was a douchebag, and I was so angry with Milly, and specially her parents, for letting the situation go on for long. Still, like I said before, I could see why they did it. Now about Jerome, I liked him from the start and think he was really the right guy for Milly. I loved Charmaine and her kids too! I think Ava was a really good friend to Milly up to a point, after Christian’s loss she was more like fuel to Milly’s recklessness and self-destructive behavior.
I really liked how the story was developed, I wanted to keep reading to see where things were going, and I liked how Milly grew up through her mistakes. Once again, Danielle made a great book, so if you're looking for a nice and different New Adult, go for it!
Pierre was a douchebag, and I was so angry with Milly, and specially her parents, for letting the situation go on for long. Still, like I said before, I could see why they did it. Now about Jerome, I liked him from the start and think he was really the right guy for Milly. I loved Charmaine and her kids too! I think Ava was a really good friend to Milly up to a point, after Christian’s loss she was more like fuel to Milly’s recklessness and self-destructive behavior.
I really liked how the story was developed, I wanted to keep reading to see where things were going, and I liked how Milly grew up through her mistakes. Once again, Danielle made a great book, so if you're looking for a nice and different New Adult, go for it!
November 4, 2013
Reckless got off to a bit of a rough start for me. I really hated Milly. She was just not a very good person. There was a time I almost put the book down, but then something about her caught my attention. It wasn't that she was just a bad person - she was damaged and lashing out in some pretty terribly ways, but it wasn't really her. Although I probably could have down without her relationship with the French guy, he was disgusting.
Once we get past that first part though we get to see who the real Milly is. The real Milly slowly comes out of her bomb shelter when she goes to visit her Aunt in the country. She begins to heal until she runs into a boy from her past. This is where the real meat of the story begins. I wish it had started sooner because I really enjoyed the last half far more than the first. Secrets begin to come out, old woulds are opened, and new wounds are healed. It was a fantastic story about the power of life and forgiving.
- See more at: http://hotofftheshelves.blogspot.com/...
Once we get past that first part though we get to see who the real Milly is. The real Milly slowly comes out of her bomb shelter when she goes to visit her Aunt in the country. She begins to heal until she runs into a boy from her past. This is where the real meat of the story begins. I wish it had started sooner because I really enjoyed the last half far more than the first. Secrets begin to come out, old woulds are opened, and new wounds are healed. It was a fantastic story about the power of life and forgiving.
- See more at: http://hotofftheshelves.blogspot.com/...
January 9, 2014
Reckless is an astounding book.
It holds in it’s pages family heart ache that goes far beyond the family even realizes. This pain causes Milly to be reckless. Is this to get attention? Maybe. However, her actions bring her parents to the decision of showing tough love, and sending her to an aunt to live and find herself.
Milly finds out that working on the farm is hard work. She is alone except for her young cousins, however, does meet a neighbor girl who is the complete opposite of her. Their friendship grows. Milly helps her Aunt with the boys, and she reconnects with someone from her past.
She misses her brother desperately, and talks to him often.
Reckless has a great story of change, healing and forgiveness. There is complete heartbreak, however this helps Milly grow as a person and make drastic changes in her life. Amidst the seriousness though, there is humor and fun times along Milly’s journey.
The ending will surprise you.
Give it a try, it’s definitely worth it.
It holds in it’s pages family heart ache that goes far beyond the family even realizes. This pain causes Milly to be reckless. Is this to get attention? Maybe. However, her actions bring her parents to the decision of showing tough love, and sending her to an aunt to live and find herself.
Milly finds out that working on the farm is hard work. She is alone except for her young cousins, however, does meet a neighbor girl who is the complete opposite of her. Their friendship grows. Milly helps her Aunt with the boys, and she reconnects with someone from her past.
She misses her brother desperately, and talks to him often.
Reckless has a great story of change, healing and forgiveness. There is complete heartbreak, however this helps Milly grow as a person and make drastic changes in her life. Amidst the seriousness though, there is humor and fun times along Milly’s journey.
The ending will surprise you.
Give it a try, it’s definitely worth it.
April 8, 2015
Milly Benton wants it all to go away. Wants all the nightmares and fears to go. She wants an end to her parent’s grief and all of the questions about how she is going to spend the rest of her life to go away as well. Her parents try one last hope of sending Milly away to her annoyingly helpful aunt and three cousins’ home in the country. Milly, bitter about the way life has been to her, has stopped dreaming of a beautiful future. Someone from her childhood comes back into her life, just as broken as she is. Can they help each other overcome their pasts?
This genre is becoming wildly popular as of late, and they just keep getting better. It was wonderful to read and really intriguing. I took me a bit to really get into Reckless as the beginning really was not something I was not interested in but I powered through and really enjoyed how Danielle Weiler told Milly’s life. I felt sympathetic with the main characters and really loved reading about how they evolved within the story.
This genre is becoming wildly popular as of late, and they just keep getting better. It was wonderful to read and really intriguing. I took me a bit to really get into Reckless as the beginning really was not something I was not interested in but I powered through and really enjoyed how Danielle Weiler told Milly’s life. I felt sympathetic with the main characters and really loved reading about how they evolved within the story.
September 5, 2013
Reckless is an appropriate title to Danielle Weiler's new novel. Although the opening lines promote Milly as being the reckless character, her behaviour is more a reflection and consequence of others' recklessness.
However much it was laced with death and destructive actions, Milly's journey through dealing with grief and discovering her place in the world was not a laborious or sad read.
Weiler has managed to lightly, but not disrespectfully, cover some tough topics that face too many youths today.
Again, like Friendship on Fire, the characters are believable and the settings are uniquely Australian.
With the city/country split of events and moments of unexpected drama, Reckless will provide many a new young adult with a read they'll enjoy.
However much it was laced with death and destructive actions, Milly's journey through dealing with grief and discovering her place in the world was not a laborious or sad read.
Weiler has managed to lightly, but not disrespectfully, cover some tough topics that face too many youths today.
Again, like Friendship on Fire, the characters are believable and the settings are uniquely Australian.
With the city/country split of events and moments of unexpected drama, Reckless will provide many a new young adult with a read they'll enjoy.
November 23, 2013
Milly loses her twin brother in an accident, and shes grieve stricken, she starts acting totally out of character- stealing, inviting a French guy to come over to live with her for a while. Until she is sent to live with her aunt in the country. There she comes face to face with a face from the past. Jerome.
I thought this was ok. I liked it. I think the start was slow. I felt sorry for Milly losing her brother. Who knows have you will react when you lose a loved one especially a twin. Millys friend Ava got on my nerves. And thank god for her aunt. This is a nice read. The pace lost me a bit. I liked the way Milly was still talking to Christian, I suppose it's hard to stop and makes her feel better.
I would give this 3.5 stars.
I thought this was ok. I liked it. I think the start was slow. I felt sorry for Milly losing her brother. Who knows have you will react when you lose a loved one especially a twin. Millys friend Ava got on my nerves. And thank god for her aunt. This is a nice read. The pace lost me a bit. I liked the way Milly was still talking to Christian, I suppose it's hard to stop and makes her feel better.
I would give this 3.5 stars.
October 7, 2013
Note: I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. As I saw it put elsewhere a free book does not equal a five star review.
While I wasn't sure how I felt about reckless at first, it grew on me pretty quickly. Milly went through hell and then some, and still came out alright in the end.
*spoilers*
I'm sad to say Ava's suicide didn't come as a surprise. I dreaded it from the moment I realized it was coming, and when it happened I was as devastated as she was. I really admire Danielle weiler's ability to convey complex emotions without histrionics or overly long explanations.
Be prepared for an emotional ride if you read this book.
While I wasn't sure how I felt about reckless at first, it grew on me pretty quickly. Milly went through hell and then some, and still came out alright in the end.
*spoilers*
I'm sad to say Ava's suicide didn't come as a surprise. I dreaded it from the moment I realized it was coming, and when it happened I was as devastated as she was. I really admire Danielle weiler's ability to convey complex emotions without histrionics or overly long explanations.
Be prepared for an emotional ride if you read this book.
Read
November 16, 2013DNF. There were so many things in this book that annoyed me. Especially the main character. Could not finish it
December 10, 2013
Review coming soon!
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