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Infinite Dolls
I had been awake for nearly twenty-seven hours straight. A part of me longed to conclude the night was all a hallucination, because nothing so short-lived should have felt so encompassing. All I could rely on was the warmth that would not subside. It blanketed over me, lulling me to sleep with blunt truth: Something in my spirit had changed, something so large that I had been woken up by a sleeping girl. —Callum Trovatto
***
Callum Trovatto entered his third year of medical school with his head down, hoping to please his hard-ass attending, and earn a passing grade. When his class is assigned to solve a differential about a girl with a rare medical condition, Callum begins to find himself drawn to the light of her spirit, craving more than to be on professional terms. But there's more than one mystery surrounding the girl, and the first begins with her name.
INFINITE DOLLS is a story of grief, faith, and how the power of deep-rooted love encourages living in the preciousness of Now.
***
Callum Trovatto entered his third year of medical school with his head down, hoping to please his hard-ass attending, and earn a passing grade. When his class is assigned to solve a differential about a girl with a rare medical condition, Callum begins to find himself drawn to the light of her spirit, craving more than to be on professional terms. But there's more than one mystery surrounding the girl, and the first begins with her name.
INFINITE DOLLS is a story of grief, faith, and how the power of deep-rooted love encourages living in the preciousness of Now.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2015
27 people are currently reading
546 people want to read
About the author
Emalynne Wilder
7 books70 followers"The voices in my head are shadows." - Edward Sharp and the Magnetic Zeros
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 7, 2015
Book – Infinite Dolls
Author – Emalynne Wilder
Publication Date – June 7, 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars
Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts - Story
Wow…this book is gripping, emotionally draining and in some ways an affirmative lesson in life. This book through the eyes of a terminal girl gives meaning to living a full life instead of worrying about making it to the next day.
This was unique and beautiful and definitely a book that needs a ton of tissues next to your Kindle.
I think the only problem I had with it was it seemed dragged out in parts and could have been a bit more condensed to have the story flow a bit smoother. I did find myself at times skimming parts to get to the meat of the story.
But trust me…this is not your ‘normal’ book…this is a book of life’s journey for Everly Anne and how Callum is there to give it to her.
Ms Wilder is genius at opening up this story and introducing Everly Anne into Callum’s life…Genius!
Re-Cap
Callum is a med student and has one of the hardest professors at school…a professor who introduces a girl with a terminal illness who should have died at the age of 3 but is still living. These students must figure out what her diagnosis is with spending only 5 minutes with her asking questions.
Callum is immediately mesmerized by this girl and will stop at nothing to get to know more about her. This means even jumping through hoops and making promises he doesn’t know he will be able to keep. Along the way, he falls in love with this mystery and will stop at nothing to give her life she so wants.
Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam – 4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4 out of 5 Stars
HEA (Spoiler) –
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys a love story that needs tissues
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Author – Emalynne Wilder
Publication Date – June 7, 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars
Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts - Story
Wow…this book is gripping, emotionally draining and in some ways an affirmative lesson in life. This book through the eyes of a terminal girl gives meaning to living a full life instead of worrying about making it to the next day.
This was unique and beautiful and definitely a book that needs a ton of tissues next to your Kindle.
I think the only problem I had with it was it seemed dragged out in parts and could have been a bit more condensed to have the story flow a bit smoother. I did find myself at times skimming parts to get to the meat of the story.
But trust me…this is not your ‘normal’ book…this is a book of life’s journey for Everly Anne and how Callum is there to give it to her.
Ms Wilder is genius at opening up this story and introducing Everly Anne into Callum’s life…Genius!
Re-Cap
Callum is a med student and has one of the hardest professors at school…a professor who introduces a girl with a terminal illness who should have died at the age of 3 but is still living. These students must figure out what her diagnosis is with spending only 5 minutes with her asking questions.
Callum is immediately mesmerized by this girl and will stop at nothing to get to know more about her. This means even jumping through hoops and making promises he doesn’t know he will be able to keep. Along the way, he falls in love with this mystery and will stop at nothing to give her life she so wants.
Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam – 4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4 out of 5 Stars
HEA (Spoiler) –
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys a love story that needs tissues
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
May 3, 2016
You’ll find that very few things in life happen by coincidence
Infinite Dolls is a story unique in its kind. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to read this way ahead of publication date and, ever since, I’ve been excited for everyone else to read it too.
For all of you readers who like sweet and sassy heroines, and for all of you readers who love caring heroes, I have some good news, because this book has both. Everly is sassy and unattainable on the outside, but sweet and a bit afraid on the inside. Callum is the kind of man every father should want his daughter to date. He has darkness inside of him, but he’s genuine, caring and understanding. And where you might think this book is Everly’s story, it’s not. It’s actually entirely written in Callum’s point of view.
This book is Callum Trovatto’s story about his one and true love, Everly Anne, who has taught him to hope and believe.
The only way she wasn’t beautiful was when she was hopeless.Everly Anne has a very rare medical disease that’s going to kill her sooner or later. While the sands of her time are slipping through the hourglass, she meets Callum who makes her wonder, makes her feel and gives her the desire to live. Even if living is exactly what’s going to kill her.
I had an abnormal heart, the kind that stretched like a rubber-band and weakened with every tug I allowed someone to have.This book is different from others that deal with fatal illnesses, in that it doesn’t focus on Everly or her disease. It’s there, but this book is mainly Callum’s story. It’s about the color that Everly brought into his life after the death of his mother left a black spot. It’s about him knowing he will lose her at one point in the future, but choosing to experience the color regardless, and trying to find ways to maintain it when she’s gone. They’re star-crossed, their stars are going to fall, but would you rather avoid love in order to avoid pain? Or feel love and take the pain as proof?
Something in my spirit had changed, something so large that I had been woken up, that night, by a sleeping girl.This is a beautiful and inspiring book about true love that transcends life & death and lives in a sky full of stars. A book about fate and having faith. About finding peace and living while keeping her alive as long as you can. A paradox, because if living is what's going to kill you, would you prefer to be dead?
--
Some song lyrics that are so right for this book:
The Script - The Energy Never Dies
I fell for you and I never got up
I'll stay here forever 'til I turn to dust
Just take every minute make it last for life
24/7, baby, 3-6-5
We could all be blown to pieces
Because time's a ticking bomb
We could all be dead tomorrow
But our love will carry on
'Cause when you know your days are numbered
And you're looking in my eyes
It's not the end, 'cause the energy never dies
Mr. Probz - Nothing Really Matters
I know what it feels like swimming through the stars when I see her
And I don't need air because I breathe her
--
Also find my review on Reading is my Breathing blog
January 21, 2019
Rating: 4,5 stars
HEA:
Once in a while, as a reader, you come across a novel that is so impactful you have no choice but to take a pause. This year, Infinite dolls by Emalynne Wilder is that novel for me. It's an unbelievable, emotional and lyrical read, so outstanding in its delivery, it will leave you struggling with the aftermath for days to come.
This author’s voice was magical and pure; her writing was polished and stunning. Profoundly lyrical.
How is that even possible that the world hasn’t heard of her?
This novel is about a twenty-four year old guy, Callum Andrew Trovatto, Cornell’s smartest medical student and a nineteen year old girl, Everly Anne, his differential case with a rare and terminal condition; one that he has to solve to get his grade and graduate.
Their interactions, their words though… They will make raise goosebumps on your skin.
You think you know where the story is headed to by now, don’t you?
Well, you certainly don’t.
Because this novel revolves around a thoughtful plot, completely unpredictable and gripping in its complexity, two mature characters and a once in a lifetime soulmate love that will defy your absolutes and believes in terms of life and death.
This book will linger in your mind for months to come. It will do anything, anything but end.
Entirely told by Callum’s point of view, his words, his love for Everly Anne will move you. They will move your world, your heart, your mind.
I can still hear them, all around me, like a beautiful storm.
A mature coming of an age story.
Poignant and unforgettable.
Buy this book. Hardcover copy, paperback copy, whatever you want. But read this novel. It will change you. It will feed your soul.
HEA:
“Do you think every healthy baby grows up to be a solid human being just because they started out on a good path? You can’t wonder about this stuff, Callum. You fix. You heal. That’s all.”
Once in a while, as a reader, you come across a novel that is so impactful you have no choice but to take a pause. This year, Infinite dolls by Emalynne Wilder is that novel for me. It's an unbelievable, emotional and lyrical read, so outstanding in its delivery, it will leave you struggling with the aftermath for days to come.
This author’s voice was magical and pure; her writing was polished and stunning. Profoundly lyrical.
Walking alongside her in silence, though, I unexpectedly found a form of comfort. It wasn’t as good as sleep, but it was on pair with dreaming.
How is that even possible that the world hasn’t heard of her?
This novel is about a twenty-four year old guy, Callum Andrew Trovatto, Cornell’s smartest medical student and a nineteen year old girl, Everly Anne, his differential case with a rare and terminal condition; one that he has to solve to get his grade and graduate.
Their interactions, their words though… They will make raise goosebumps on your skin.
You think you know where the story is headed to by now, don’t you?
Well, you certainly don’t.
Because this novel revolves around a thoughtful plot, completely unpredictable and gripping in its complexity, two mature characters and a once in a lifetime soulmate love that will defy your absolutes and believes in terms of life and death.
And as I searched her face for answers to the feelings budding inside of me, I realized why she was beautiful in a way I hadn’t seen in other girls —girls like Cecily, with the coconut oil skin and no interesting secrets. Everly’s beauty rivaled the way autumn leaves strip branches to the bone. Her structure stood raw before me, her secrets wading in the depths of her eyes, so close I could call on them, if I desired, knowing that, for me, she would answer.
This book will linger in your mind for months to come. It will do anything, anything but end.
Entirely told by Callum’s point of view, his words, his love for Everly Anne will move you. They will move your world, your heart, your mind.
I can still hear them, all around me, like a beautiful storm.
“Now you belong to everyone, doctor.”
My fingers lifted her chin. “Tell those lies to my heartbeat.”
A mature coming of an age story.
Poignant and unforgettable.
“Why are we here?” she asked.
“I wanted to stand still for a while, Everly Anne. This is the place I can do that for you. This is me standing still.”
Buy this book. Hardcover copy, paperback copy, whatever you want. But read this novel. It will change you. It will feed your soul.
June 24, 2015
☆ I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ! ☆
Damn, was this an emotional read.
After starting reading the book synopsis and getting into this read, I knew that I was going to be wrecked and an utter mess of conflicting emotions at the end.
Infinite Dolls balances a lot of life's blessings and woes, and the bittersweet comings of love.
I honestly thought that it would focus a lot on Callum's ailing ladylove, Everly Anne, but it doesn't. While it is a present factor, everything centers on Callum, and his journeys through love, loss, coping, healing, and aspirations for the future.
In entirety, Infinite Dolls was like a fight song for Callum and anyone battling obscurities. It's about living, it's about looking to the light despite how dark things may be and trudging on.
I really liked the themes and inflections it brings to the table, and enjoyed it's raw depiction of the human spirit.
Great book debut, Emalynne!
Damn, was this an emotional read.
After starting reading the book synopsis and getting into this read, I knew that I was going to be wrecked and an utter mess of conflicting emotions at the end.
Infinite Dolls balances a lot of life's blessings and woes, and the bittersweet comings of love.
I honestly thought that it would focus a lot on Callum's ailing ladylove, Everly Anne, but it doesn't. While it is a present factor, everything centers on Callum, and his journeys through love, loss, coping, healing, and aspirations for the future.
In entirety, Infinite Dolls was like a fight song for Callum and anyone battling obscurities. It's about living, it's about looking to the light despite how dark things may be and trudging on.
I really liked the themes and inflections it brings to the table, and enjoyed it's raw depiction of the human spirit.
Great book debut, Emalynne!
May 2, 2016
I knew going into Infinites Dolls by Emalynne Wilder I’d probably be pulled in all different directions emotionally, and seeing the initial reviews with such promising ratings, I had high hopes for this story. Well, Wilder’s debut novel was everything I expected… unique, emotional and most of all hopeful. Well done!
Callum Trovatto is in his third year of medical school and knows that the last thing he has time for is falling in love. Well as fate would have it, Callum is expected to complete a differential on a patient for one of his classes, however Everly Anne Brighton has no intentions of making this easy on him. Everly Anne has spent her entire life being questioned, probed and treated by insensitive doctors because of her rare condition, so when Callum is expected to diagnose her condition she takes a standoff approach. Therefore, Callum decides to use an unconventional method, which is to get to know her first in the hopes she will open up. But as he and Everly Anne begin to spend time together, a love between these two slowly transpires, and Everly Anne and Callum must face fate’s cruel hand.
First off, I really enjoyed that Infinite Dolls was told in Callum’s perspective. I was worried that as a reader, I’d be submerged into a painful medical experience from someone suffering from a rare condition. Wilder proved that she can make her story just as emotional coming from a third year medical student that refuses to let fate and cruel doctors dictate how and when he and Everly Anne can build a life together.
Secondly, I was pleasantly surprised at how Wilder was able to take a rare disease and have her readers journey along with Callum as he tried to diagnose her condition. I never heard of the disease and learning about it was a combination of fascinating and heartbreaking.
Overall, the high ratings don't lie. Emalynne Wilder hit it out of the ballpark with her debut novel and I can’t wait to see was she writes next. Emotional story that was both unique and heartfelt.
Callum Trovatto is in his third year of medical school and knows that the last thing he has time for is falling in love. Well as fate would have it, Callum is expected to complete a differential on a patient for one of his classes, however Everly Anne Brighton has no intentions of making this easy on him. Everly Anne has spent her entire life being questioned, probed and treated by insensitive doctors because of her rare condition, so when Callum is expected to diagnose her condition she takes a standoff approach. Therefore, Callum decides to use an unconventional method, which is to get to know her first in the hopes she will open up. But as he and Everly Anne begin to spend time together, a love between these two slowly transpires, and Everly Anne and Callum must face fate’s cruel hand.
First off, I really enjoyed that Infinite Dolls was told in Callum’s perspective. I was worried that as a reader, I’d be submerged into a painful medical experience from someone suffering from a rare condition. Wilder proved that she can make her story just as emotional coming from a third year medical student that refuses to let fate and cruel doctors dictate how and when he and Everly Anne can build a life together.
Secondly, I was pleasantly surprised at how Wilder was able to take a rare disease and have her readers journey along with Callum as he tried to diagnose her condition. I never heard of the disease and learning about it was a combination of fascinating and heartbreaking.
Overall, the high ratings don't lie. Emalynne Wilder hit it out of the ballpark with her debut novel and I can’t wait to see was she writes next. Emotional story that was both unique and heartfelt.
July 14, 2015
Definitely unique and significant. Endearing. The author is extremely talented in her way with words. Though I wasn't able to bond as quickly, strongly as I would have liked, there's no doubt this is one special piece of literature.
June 24, 2015
Beautiful, rich storytelling.
Review to come.
Review to come.
July 5, 2015
It's not very often that a book moves me the way this one did. Infinite Dolls is an extremely unique story of a young man in medical school who meets a young woman with a rare genetic disorder and they fall in love. Their story is truly beautiful. Callum and Everly are both one of a kind and their interactions are both captivating and comical. They form a unique bond that slowly leads to friendship and then love.
Everly's days are numbered, but really all of our days are. Callum teaches her that she should not miss out on the experiences of life just because her days may be less than the rest of ours. And Everly helps bring Callum out of the dark hole he has been in ever since his mother died 10 years earlier. Even though Callum knows he will lose Everly, he chooses to love her with his whole heart. He would rather have a year or two with her and experience a real soul deep love, than never have it at all.
There is so much to love about this book. The characters for one. Everly is incredibly smart and witty, and Callum is funny as well, with a sweet, sensitive side. The secondary characters are so lovable as well. Callum's best friend Tatum and her husband brought a lot of comic relief to the story.
Then there is the writing. This book is masterfully written, I felt like I was reading a book by a seasoned writer. I never would have thought this was Emalynne's first novel.
Do not miss out in this amazing story. You will laugh, you will most definitely cry, and I guarantee you will not regret reading it. It will go right onto your favorites shelf like it has mine.
5+++ stars!
Everly's days are numbered, but really all of our days are. Callum teaches her that she should not miss out on the experiences of life just because her days may be less than the rest of ours. And Everly helps bring Callum out of the dark hole he has been in ever since his mother died 10 years earlier. Even though Callum knows he will lose Everly, he chooses to love her with his whole heart. He would rather have a year or two with her and experience a real soul deep love, than never have it at all.
There is so much to love about this book. The characters for one. Everly is incredibly smart and witty, and Callum is funny as well, with a sweet, sensitive side. The secondary characters are so lovable as well. Callum's best friend Tatum and her husband brought a lot of comic relief to the story.
Then there is the writing. This book is masterfully written, I felt like I was reading a book by a seasoned writer. I never would have thought this was Emalynne's first novel.
Do not miss out in this amazing story. You will laugh, you will most definitely cry, and I guarantee you will not regret reading it. It will go right onto your favorites shelf like it has mine.
5+++ stars!
July 22, 2015
4 stars!
Well, this is a cryfest. There is nothing traditional or usual about this impassioned love story. Which makes sense as there is nothing usual about Everly Anne’s condition or Callum’s love for her. Callum’s a med student who, while following in his father’s medical footsteps, has no desire to follow in his father’s drunken footsteps. He’s trying to blaze his own path and isn’t focused on anything other than studying. However, when the new assignment is to interview Everly to attempt to diagnose her, all of his logic disappears with the first glance into her eyes.
There’s obviously something physically wrong with Everly, but even though Callum’s grade – and future – depends on finding out what that something is, he’d rather learn about Everly herself. The relationship between the two takes a completely circuitous route, but it’s beautiful, pure and so heartfelt that I was perfectly fine with taking the long road to get there.
The couple finds themselves up against so many obstacles – Everly’s father, her condition, Callum’s schooling – but neither of them can rid themselves of the intense connection that they feel for each other. It’s like their hearts were meant to collide to form a whole one – beating wildly everytime they’re together.
This story is emotionally gutting but sweetly beautiful. Callum’s love for Everly Anne never wavers and never fades. He tailors the love to her needs and in the process he pushes aside his own wants, needs and future. I felt honored to take the journey with them both and let my tears flow freely. This isn’t the typical happily-ever-after feel good romance, but it’s a real romance that shows heartbreak, loss and utter joy.
[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review]
This review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/0...
Well, this is a cryfest. There is nothing traditional or usual about this impassioned love story. Which makes sense as there is nothing usual about Everly Anne’s condition or Callum’s love for her. Callum’s a med student who, while following in his father’s medical footsteps, has no desire to follow in his father’s drunken footsteps. He’s trying to blaze his own path and isn’t focused on anything other than studying. However, when the new assignment is to interview Everly to attempt to diagnose her, all of his logic disappears with the first glance into her eyes.
There’s obviously something physically wrong with Everly, but even though Callum’s grade – and future – depends on finding out what that something is, he’d rather learn about Everly herself. The relationship between the two takes a completely circuitous route, but it’s beautiful, pure and so heartfelt that I was perfectly fine with taking the long road to get there.
The couple finds themselves up against so many obstacles – Everly’s father, her condition, Callum’s schooling – but neither of them can rid themselves of the intense connection that they feel for each other. It’s like their hearts were meant to collide to form a whole one – beating wildly everytime they’re together.
This story is emotionally gutting but sweetly beautiful. Callum’s love for Everly Anne never wavers and never fades. He tailors the love to her needs and in the process he pushes aside his own wants, needs and future. I felt honored to take the journey with them both and let my tears flow freely. This isn’t the typical happily-ever-after feel good romance, but it’s a real romance that shows heartbreak, loss and utter joy.
[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review]
This review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/0...
January 31, 2016
I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This story was really well written. You found yourself totally invested in the characters and their journey together. They meet in College under unusual circumstances and a friendship blooms and then eventually love blooms. The relationship between Everly and Callum is lovely, it's full of sweet and endearing moments.
Everly of course has a secret and Callum makes it his mission to find out what her secret is. They have a over protective father to deal with too.
This story covers a few years, a few dramas and a few wonderful moments as well. A really lovely love story with great supporting characters.
This story was really well written. You found yourself totally invested in the characters and their journey together. They meet in College under unusual circumstances and a friendship blooms and then eventually love blooms. The relationship between Everly and Callum is lovely, it's full of sweet and endearing moments.
Everly of course has a secret and Callum makes it his mission to find out what her secret is. They have a over protective father to deal with too.
This story covers a few years, a few dramas and a few wonderful moments as well. A really lovely love story with great supporting characters.
June 11, 2015
I've been thinking about how to review this book for the past couple of hours - ever since I finished reading it.
I really don't think I can do it sufficiently because my heart still hurts. This story has made my heart ache so badly...
It is beautifully written, refreshingly original, somewhat quirky but very sweet, enriching and without a doubt full of love.
"I adore you endlessly..."
I really don't think I can do it sufficiently because my heart still hurts. This story has made my heart ache so badly...
It is beautifully written, refreshingly original, somewhat quirky but very sweet, enriching and without a doubt full of love.
"I adore you endlessly..."
February 13, 2016
HOLY BUCKETS!!!!! Not just another book. I ugly cried and broke into pieces and then was stitched back together again. This book is an emotional ride that brings peace, hope, understanding and fate together. I would definitely read more from this author and wouldn't mind having a Tatum and Nick story too!
July 25, 2015
This story is beyond beautiful and the 5 stars don't even touch on how much I loved this griping tale. Emalynne Wilder's words just touched me in this story. Incredible read and highly recommended!
January 25, 2016
Beautifully heartbreaking. Wow. Just wow.
May 3, 2016
There are times when a book is more than a story of two people but a story about life and loss and deep love and just being! This is one of those. Ha, it’s also about the word “just” and how it’s used and how Callum Andrew didn’t like the word! He had too many bad moments associated with the loss of his mother to cancer to like the word. Once it was addressed, I couldn’t start noticing every just word in the book and its meaning. Now, I bet you won’t be able not to notice it for a while!!
But when Everly came into his life, he learned that it also has a good meaning. Here is a portion of a note left inside of the book Peter Pan that Everly left for Callum Andrew...
The words in the book show meaning to life and love and happiness in the time we have in this world. The author weaves words about thoughts like a poem often more than just a story about a boy and a girl. A girl who will die sooner than later and a boy who is willing to love her anyway and will enjoy every moment he can with her. Me, I would be way too scared to know my heart would soon be broken and I would run away screaming. But the author shows me why my thoughts are illogical.
The story is tender and while there is a fatal medical diagnosis, this story is about living with it and not what everyone is doing about it. You have to read her acknowledgments at the end. Where the story has ended, her thoughts keep you thinking and it so sweet.
I know it is only a piece of the story I have given you here it is really something you have to read for yourself. There were times I wasn’t sure how I felt about the book. Some moments I thought I didn’t like it at all. My emotions were all over the place. Then I would cry about some moment or spoken word here and there and of course you like it when you cry! I am only going to 4.5 because sometimes I was a little lost.
“Just one bite of food. Just take one bit, Julep.”
“I was thirteen, and it was Christmas Eve….. They told me my mom just stopped breathing.”
But when Everly came into his life, he learned that it also has a good meaning. Here is a portion of a note left inside of the book Peter Pan that Everly left for Callum Andrew...
James Barrie’s words were bolded at the top. Just always be waiting for me. And underneath, she had written: Not every “just” leads to doom. What if the word “just” only loses all its goodness when you stop looking at it as such. Justice, fair, evenhanded, unbiased, good, moral. This is the Family of Just. But like any family that starts out wholesome, there is room for a shift. All it takes is one person to stop believing in the foundation. Then that family is only on the outskirts of what remains, until no one addresses it as a whole, just the broken bits that fell away. Just the crumbles of what was once so sturdy. Just. You can make anything whole again. Just. You just have to nurse it back to health.
The words in the book show meaning to life and love and happiness in the time we have in this world. The author weaves words about thoughts like a poem often more than just a story about a boy and a girl. A girl who will die sooner than later and a boy who is willing to love her anyway and will enjoy every moment he can with her. Me, I would be way too scared to know my heart would soon be broken and I would run away screaming. But the author shows me why my thoughts are illogical.
I wasn't talking about death. I'm talking about life. That's the damn problem. Everyone is so focused on losing some unforseen day in the future, they don't even cherish what they have right now. Well, right now, I'm in love with this girl. That's not denial. It's the absolute truth. Worry warts are in denial, believing every carefully-made choice won't end badly. Guess what Tot? We all die someday. So what if I get ten days or ten years with her? Are we all so concerned with quantity, we won't even consider some of the best moments of our lives are the shortest lived? I might end up spending more time in my life reminding patients to watch their cholesterol than I ever will spend tenderly with Everly Anne...But does that make her lesser? Are those moments not worth having?
The story is tender and while there is a fatal medical diagnosis, this story is about living with it and not what everyone is doing about it. You have to read her acknowledgments at the end. Where the story has ended, her thoughts keep you thinking and it so sweet.
I know it is only a piece of the story I have given you here it is really something you have to read for yourself. There were times I wasn’t sure how I felt about the book. Some moments I thought I didn’t like it at all. My emotions were all over the place. Then I would cry about some moment or spoken word here and there and of course you like it when you cry! I am only going to 4.5 because sometimes I was a little lost.
September 20, 2016
“Save me,” she said.
“From what?”
“Myself.”
Everly Anne
She was just a girl, his assignment and patient.
She is the girl who can’t feel her hands being burnt, the girl with scars and never ending bruises, and who can't eat in front of people.
The girl who was supposed to die at the age of three.
The sky is falling. The sky is falling. And I fear you won’t believe it until you’re covered in stars.
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Callum Andrew Trovatto
With a well known father in the medical world, becoming a Doctor was the easiest part of his life.
He's in Dr. Brighton class and one of the students in charge of Everly's differential, trying to solve the mistery behind her unusual condition.
We watched one another for a moment, and I believe this was where the first star fell into my eye.
[image error]
This book shows how Callum and Everly love was something meant to happen, something magnificent and worth fighting for.
Callum Andrew meets Everly Anne after she is assigned as study subject in his class.
Everly Anne has an strange medical condition that she has survived against all odds, she was raised too guarded by his father, who only mission has been to prolong Everly Anne's life.
She has avoided to make a deep connection to someone else because she has accepted she the fact that her days are limited. But Callum Andrew makes her take risks and decisions she never thought she will have to make, but more importantly he makes her want to really live and enjoy all the things she and her father had denied to in her life.
The story is told from Callum's POV and is so deep and heartbreaking to read all those feelings he has for her, since the beginning he felt curious and attracted to her, and with every day that pasted he just wanted to know and enjoy all the uniqueness that was Everly Anne.
“You aren’t some dream I want to relive. You’re the part of my life that someone has decided to rip away and I’m trying to figure out how to tie us back together."
[image error]
I was happy this book didn't show a girl painfully dying but all the contrary, it shows a girl that even though her condition has decided to make the most of her life fighting against her fears.
Everly's and Callum's relationship was so unique; they had the most deep conversations about their lives, dreams, fears, and the possibility of a future together. Everything was so AMAZINGLY portrait that became in the most heartbreaking book I have ever read, but every tear, laugh, and heartache caused by this book was worth it.
Another aspect that I love is how it shows people deal differently with the lost of a love one, been both Everly and Callum lost their mother at a very young age, that experience not only affected them but also change the people around them, especially their fathers, each of them still dealing with a lot of feelings inside them.
She was the ghost who would always haunt me.
Wide awake.
Dreaming soundly.
I could never remove her from under my ribs.
Emalynne Wilder is a really talented author, the way this book was written just catches you right away and you can't put it down, not only the story but the characters are magnificently developed. I definitely want to read more from her.
**Review edited after re-reading the book for the fourth time**
I just love it.
“From what?”
“Myself.”
Everly Anne
She was just a girl, his assignment and patient.
She is the girl who can’t feel her hands being burnt, the girl with scars and never ending bruises, and who can't eat in front of people.
The girl who was supposed to die at the age of three.
The sky is falling. The sky is falling. And I fear you won’t believe it until you’re covered in stars.
[image error]
Callum Andrew Trovatto
With a well known father in the medical world, becoming a Doctor was the easiest part of his life.
He's in Dr. Brighton class and one of the students in charge of Everly's differential, trying to solve the mistery behind her unusual condition.
We watched one another for a moment, and I believe this was where the first star fell into my eye.
[image error]
This book shows how Callum and Everly love was something meant to happen, something magnificent and worth fighting for.
Callum Andrew meets Everly Anne after she is assigned as study subject in his class.
Everly Anne has an strange medical condition that she has survived against all odds, she was raised too guarded by his father, who only mission has been to prolong Everly Anne's life.
She has avoided to make a deep connection to someone else because she has accepted she the fact that her days are limited. But Callum Andrew makes her take risks and decisions she never thought she will have to make, but more importantly he makes her want to really live and enjoy all the things she and her father had denied to in her life.
The story is told from Callum's POV and is so deep and heartbreaking to read all those feelings he has for her, since the beginning he felt curious and attracted to her, and with every day that pasted he just wanted to know and enjoy all the uniqueness that was Everly Anne.
“You aren’t some dream I want to relive. You’re the part of my life that someone has decided to rip away and I’m trying to figure out how to tie us back together."
[image error]
I was happy this book didn't show a girl painfully dying but all the contrary, it shows a girl that even though her condition has decided to make the most of her life fighting against her fears.
Everly's and Callum's relationship was so unique; they had the most deep conversations about their lives, dreams, fears, and the possibility of a future together. Everything was so AMAZINGLY portrait that became in the most heartbreaking book I have ever read, but every tear, laugh, and heartache caused by this book was worth it.
Another aspect that I love is how it shows people deal differently with the lost of a love one, been both Everly and Callum lost their mother at a very young age, that experience not only affected them but also change the people around them, especially their fathers, each of them still dealing with a lot of feelings inside them.
She was the ghost who would always haunt me.
Wide awake.
Dreaming soundly.
I could never remove her from under my ribs.
Emalynne Wilder is a really talented author, the way this book was written just catches you right away and you can't put it down, not only the story but the characters are magnificently developed. I definitely want to read more from her.
**Review edited after re-reading the book for the fourth time**
I just love it.
April 24, 2016
Review to come!
Update 4/23/16:
See more reviews on my blog Novels and Necklaces
Actual rating 4.5 stars
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review as part of the upcoming Blog Tour. Check it out on my blog on May 3!
How it begins is how it goes.
This book blew me away. Extremely emotional and bittersweet, Infinite Dolls is a book unlike any I have read before. You know going in that Everly Anne has a terminal illness, but the beauty of this book lies in the fact that while her illness is present, it is not the focus. This might not make much sense now, but when you read this (which you have to because it's so good), you'll understand. At the end of the day, this book is entirely Callum's story, and how this beautiful, wonderful girl entered his life in a whirlwind type way and changed him in countless ways. Emalynne Wilder has such a passionate and gorgeous way of writing...one that transports you to another place while reading. You feel every single emotion the characters feel, from gut wrenching heartbreak to crazy happy moments. This book is a journey of love and loss, coping and accepting. It does what any good book does, it makes you reflect on your own life, and remember how important it is to stop and appreciate what you have around you.
Everly Anne was an absolute delight! I loved her spunk and sassiness. She seemed reserved at first, but once she truly opens up you see how amazing she is. Everly Anne was actually a very relatable character because she has lived in a bubble her entire life, every action being controlled by her father. However, when she is finally able to break free a bit and actually live, she becomes who she was truly meant to be. It was a wonderful journey to experience, even though this book was entirely from Callum's perspective. I think it shows just how great an author Ms. Wilder is that she can showcase this type of transformation from an outside perspective. Callum is definitely someone you will fall in love with right away. He is exactly the type of guy every girl deserves. He intends to give Everly Anne the world, and he does...in his own way. Callum has a bit of sadness in him, but he is incredibly genuine and understanding.
The romance between Everly Anne and Callum was bittersweet and so romantic. It was extremely natural, and from the moment they met, you could tell how beautiful their story would be. However, even before reading this book you know how things will end. Granted, you hope you're wrong, but alas, there is one scene that virtually ripped my heart out and left me gross sobbing. Their relationship though reminds us all of how transcendent love can be, and that while fate, destiny, etc. plays a role in our lives, at the end of the day, we need to have faith that things will work out how they are supposed to. This book in general reminds us that things happen for a reason, and if two people are meant to be together, they will be in the end.
Something in my spirit had changed, something so large that I had been woken up, that night, by a sleeping girl.
I highly recommend reading this gorgeously written novel by Emalynne Wilder. It's one of those books that makes you think and believe in true love. While there were some parts that dragged, which made the book feel a lot longer than it actually was, it was still an amazing story that will leave you teary-eyed. I will definitely be checking out future books from Ms. Wilder!
Happy reading :)
Update 4/23/16:
See more reviews on my blog Novels and Necklaces
Actual rating 4.5 stars
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review as part of the upcoming Blog Tour. Check it out on my blog on May 3!
How it begins is how it goes.
This book blew me away. Extremely emotional and bittersweet, Infinite Dolls is a book unlike any I have read before. You know going in that Everly Anne has a terminal illness, but the beauty of this book lies in the fact that while her illness is present, it is not the focus. This might not make much sense now, but when you read this (which you have to because it's so good), you'll understand. At the end of the day, this book is entirely Callum's story, and how this beautiful, wonderful girl entered his life in a whirlwind type way and changed him in countless ways. Emalynne Wilder has such a passionate and gorgeous way of writing...one that transports you to another place while reading. You feel every single emotion the characters feel, from gut wrenching heartbreak to crazy happy moments. This book is a journey of love and loss, coping and accepting. It does what any good book does, it makes you reflect on your own life, and remember how important it is to stop and appreciate what you have around you.
Everly Anne was an absolute delight! I loved her spunk and sassiness. She seemed reserved at first, but once she truly opens up you see how amazing she is. Everly Anne was actually a very relatable character because she has lived in a bubble her entire life, every action being controlled by her father. However, when she is finally able to break free a bit and actually live, she becomes who she was truly meant to be. It was a wonderful journey to experience, even though this book was entirely from Callum's perspective. I think it shows just how great an author Ms. Wilder is that she can showcase this type of transformation from an outside perspective. Callum is definitely someone you will fall in love with right away. He is exactly the type of guy every girl deserves. He intends to give Everly Anne the world, and he does...in his own way. Callum has a bit of sadness in him, but he is incredibly genuine and understanding.
The romance between Everly Anne and Callum was bittersweet and so romantic. It was extremely natural, and from the moment they met, you could tell how beautiful their story would be. However, even before reading this book you know how things will end. Granted, you hope you're wrong, but alas, there is one scene that virtually ripped my heart out and left me gross sobbing. Their relationship though reminds us all of how transcendent love can be, and that while fate, destiny, etc. plays a role in our lives, at the end of the day, we need to have faith that things will work out how they are supposed to. This book in general reminds us that things happen for a reason, and if two people are meant to be together, they will be in the end.
Something in my spirit had changed, something so large that I had been woken up, that night, by a sleeping girl.
I highly recommend reading this gorgeously written novel by Emalynne Wilder. It's one of those books that makes you think and believe in true love. While there were some parts that dragged, which made the book feel a lot longer than it actually was, it was still an amazing story that will leave you teary-eyed. I will definitely be checking out future books from Ms. Wilder!
Happy reading :)
July 24, 2015
Infinite Dolls is a different and unique story and it moves you in an unusual way. When I first started reading this book, I didn't expect the waterworks to flow. Be prepared!
This is a story of a young man in medical school who meets a young woman with a rare genetic disorder and they fall in love. This story is simply amazing and inspiring. This is a book about faith and having faith, but also about finding peace. The overall meaning of this book seems to be to allow things happen as they may. If they were meant to be then thats how it will be.
This book is Callum Trovatto's story about a girl who he falls in love with and has taught him to believe and care about people rather than being your typical doctor. Everly Anne is going to die from this disease sooner or later so she lives life to the fullest that she can. She brings light into the place where Callum's mother once used to and brings him out of the dark hole he was in from his mothers death. Callum knows he will one day loose Everly, but he chooses to keep the light and experience it regardless of what is to come. She is his peach. The light to his darkness that consumed him all those years.
I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend this to anyone. I can't believe this is Emalynne Wilder's first book! The writing style was awesome! Like stated before this is a sad book, but along with the sadness, you will laugh and not regret reading this heartfelt book. This is a romance book that shows true passion and heartfelt.
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
Rating: 5/5
This is a story of a young man in medical school who meets a young woman with a rare genetic disorder and they fall in love. This story is simply amazing and inspiring. This is a book about faith and having faith, but also about finding peace. The overall meaning of this book seems to be to allow things happen as they may. If they were meant to be then thats how it will be.
This book is Callum Trovatto's story about a girl who he falls in love with and has taught him to believe and care about people rather than being your typical doctor. Everly Anne is going to die from this disease sooner or later so she lives life to the fullest that she can. She brings light into the place where Callum's mother once used to and brings him out of the dark hole he was in from his mothers death. Callum knows he will one day loose Everly, but he chooses to keep the light and experience it regardless of what is to come. She is his peach. The light to his darkness that consumed him all those years.
I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend this to anyone. I can't believe this is Emalynne Wilder's first book! The writing style was awesome! Like stated before this is a sad book, but along with the sadness, you will laugh and not regret reading this heartfelt book. This is a romance book that shows true passion and heartfelt.
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
Rating: 5/5
June 24, 2015
“The worst part about a person dying is all the destruction it leaves behind [...] sometimes watching the aftermath of what it’s done to my father is worse. My mother’s pain left with her, but his pain is infinite. And if I am the flesh of his flesh and blood of his blood, then his pain is also mine, isn’t it?”[...] “I would say yes. But I would also say that means the joy is yours too. The pain comes from the joy. So there must have been so much joy that once it’s gone the world looks void.”
I laughed. I awed. I loved. I cried. Even though I'm in the throes of heartbreak due to having finished this book almost a second ago, I know for sure, I couldn't find the words in me to write a proper review if a month had passed since I read the last word, so I won't even try.
“That’s how I feel—your heart swallowed me like a well and I will never be able to climb out. I fell. I fell into your infinity. And my inability to free myself will doom your life.”
I believe the shelves and the 5* rating will have to speak for me on this one.
“Everly Anne,” I slid my hands under her hair and turned her face up close to mine. “I love you no less than 358 ways. Please never allow anything to sway you from believing it’s the absolute truth. Even if the sky does fall, even if we do turn to dust, I’ll always be waiting for you.”
Emalynne Wilder, I got my eyes on you.
February 3, 2016
I was lucky enough to receive this ARC for an honest review. So, here it is.
Emotionally wrenching, heart stopping. We meet Everly Ann and Callum Andrew in a Med School classroom, he is the student & she is the case study.
A liking blossoms into full blown love, a forbidden love. But Callum and Everly fight to be together in the end, conquering all obstacles in their lives.
Knowing their lives have an expiration they live to the fullest making a family against all odds.
Sassy, funny, mysterious puzzle that is Everly who had never had a say in her life and the curious puzzle breaker that is Callum who gives her voice and the opportunity to choose for herself. They are a perfect match.
But in the end the decision is too difficult for Callum to make as Everly sees so it is she who must carry the burden and give it to someone else.
A beautiful choise is made. A decision that would be too much for Callum to make but he realizes that she made the right one.
Emotionally wrenching, heart stopping. We meet Everly Ann and Callum Andrew in a Med School classroom, he is the student & she is the case study.
A liking blossoms into full blown love, a forbidden love. But Callum and Everly fight to be together in the end, conquering all obstacles in their lives.
Knowing their lives have an expiration they live to the fullest making a family against all odds.
Sassy, funny, mysterious puzzle that is Everly who had never had a say in her life and the curious puzzle breaker that is Callum who gives her voice and the opportunity to choose for herself. They are a perfect match.
But in the end the decision is too difficult for Callum to make as Everly sees so it is she who must carry the burden and give it to someone else.
A beautiful choise is made. A decision that would be too much for Callum to make but he realizes that she made the right one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2016
Ho-lee -Buckets!!!!
If this isn't love In the purest form, then I don't know what it. Callum was the most patient, charming, genuine, and loving guy. Yes, Everly was sick, but she was more alive in this book than any other character. For the first half of the book, I felt like I was watching an episode of House. That's where they met, these beautiful lovers, in a hospital, trying to diagnose Everly. That's where they both really started living. One minute I'm smiling, or covering my eyes and giggling, and the next I'm breaking down in tears. Gah!! I ugly cried in the end. Not all sad tears though. It was so bittersweet. Once the tears subside, you're right back to smiling again. The writing style is almost poetic, using only beautiful words and a love story, to capture your heart. This book didn't need sex to sell love. I think that's what I loved most about it.
If this isn't love In the purest form, then I don't know what it. Callum was the most patient, charming, genuine, and loving guy. Yes, Everly was sick, but she was more alive in this book than any other character. For the first half of the book, I felt like I was watching an episode of House. That's where they met, these beautiful lovers, in a hospital, trying to diagnose Everly. That's where they both really started living. One minute I'm smiling, or covering my eyes and giggling, and the next I'm breaking down in tears. Gah!! I ugly cried in the end. Not all sad tears though. It was so bittersweet. Once the tears subside, you're right back to smiling again. The writing style is almost poetic, using only beautiful words and a love story, to capture your heart. This book didn't need sex to sell love. I think that's what I loved most about it.
May 9, 2016
A tale of hope and love, and living......
This book did not play out at all like I had expected it too. Told from Callum's POV we get to see everything through his eyes. The story however very touching, emotional, and sweet was a little drawn out. So it took me a while to get into the story and the characters, and at times I found myself wanting to skim. But overall I thoroughly enjoyed the story and it's message. Living life to it's fullest even in the midst of one that may be challenging. And fate, how it brings us all together for one specific reason, even if that reason isn't what we want or desire, and surviving the pain that it may bring.
In the end my heart was left broken but in a good happy way. This is one of those books that may stick with you for awhile, and some may even need some tissues to get through it.
This book did not play out at all like I had expected it too. Told from Callum's POV we get to see everything through his eyes. The story however very touching, emotional, and sweet was a little drawn out. So it took me a while to get into the story and the characters, and at times I found myself wanting to skim. But overall I thoroughly enjoyed the story and it's message. Living life to it's fullest even in the midst of one that may be challenging. And fate, how it brings us all together for one specific reason, even if that reason isn't what we want or desire, and surviving the pain that it may bring.
In the end my heart was left broken but in a good happy way. This is one of those books that may stick with you for awhile, and some may even need some tissues to get through it.
July 24, 2015
This is a beautiful novel and I find it so hard to believe this could be anyone's first novel. Everything, from the writing, to the main characters, to the secondary characters was beautiful. It was inspiring and touching, while also being comical. The dialogue between the characters brought spurts of laughter within the sadness. I loved that although Everly is ill and terminal, that was not the main focus. This book was about loving someone whole heartedly despite how short your time together may be. She gave him the ability to believe in a hope and love, and he gave her a chance to truly live. Callum Andrews was so grateful for his little infinity with Everly Anne and I couldn't even cry when that infinity ended because it was so great and so hopeful.
February 6, 2016
This was an emotional and heart gripping story. Everly and Callum's story was an emotional rollercoaster.
This was a well written story of accepting what life gives you and trying to make the best of. Learning not to be scared to live.
I was rooting for Callum and Everly throughout the entire story. I wanted them to have a happy ending and in a way, they did.
****received an ARC for a honest review****
This was a well written story of accepting what life gives you and trying to make the best of. Learning not to be scared to live.
I was rooting for Callum and Everly throughout the entire story. I wanted them to have a happy ending and in a way, they did.
****received an ARC for a honest review****
June 23, 2015
What a book! I stayed up way past my bedtime reading and then I couldn't go to sleep thinking about it. It was well written, with a well thought out story line. I felt the complex emotions right along with the characters. I can't believe this is a debut novel. I am looking forward to reading Emalynne Wilder's next novel.
August 5, 2015
Beautiful Beautiful Beautiful!
Will post review soon!
Will post review soon!
May 4, 2016
Everly's beauty rivaled the way autumn leaves strip branches to the bone.
Infinite Dolls by Emalynne Wilder
Publication date: May 3rd 2016
Genres: New Adult, Romance
Synopsis:
Born to be the best.
Head of his class.
No strings attached.
The third year of medical school is supposed to be the hardest, but Callum Trovatto has no idea what he’s about to face when Everly Anne Brighton stands between him and a passing grade, shaking up his world with her secrets, and digging into his dark past.
Hopeless.
Trapped by her father’s rules.
Longing for freedom.
Expected to die before her twenty-first birthday at the hands of a rare medical condition, Everly Brighton begins to defy the carefully crafted routine her father enforces to keep her alive, despite the fact that it could kill her.
INFINITE DOLLS is an emotionally charged love story about finding faith, coping with loss and living in the preciousness of Now.
You guys. Holy Buckets. Ugly fucking tears. I loved this novel. I loved this novel so hard that I don't know how I am going to move on. My soul aches with longing for the ghosts these characters will leave behind.
This novel is actually the first new adult novel I have read that is completely in the male's POV. I've read many that swapped, but this was all Callum. I will let you in on a little secret, it was breathtaking. I felt so close to him, so enamored by him being enamored by Everly that my heart was so achingly full.
I wiped many tears off my screen while reading Infinite Dolls, but I also laughed through so much of the dialog. I think a few of my tears may have been from laughter! Serg and Tatum were everything they needed to be. Their friendship with Callum complimented his personality in such a way that I found myself wishing they were my best friends.
Wide awake. Dreaming soundly. I could never remove her from under my ribs.
Emalynne is an eloquent writer. I say that with the utmost respect. The words on the page were not words on a page, they were pieces of her soul laid out for the world to see. I will anxiously await her next novel.
Um, how gorgeous is this cover?! It breathes Everly. Perfection.
Go grab the tissues and read this now. Absolutely one of my top reads of the year!
(This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review)
July 14, 2020
This book will break you.
There, that’s it. Right there. Done.
Okay, not really, but honestly this book went way beyond any of my expectations.
This is a tale of life and learning to take chances, even when all the odds are stacked against you. This book is about perseverance in the face of adversity. This book is about understanding that life isn’t always fair, but it should never prevent you from doing what you aspire to do.
Callum was doing just fine in school until Everly came around. An enigma to everyone, the only one she was civil with was Callum. Through their chats they learned that neither is what they seem – Everly wants to experience the world, but is afraid of what could happen, while Callum wants to help people, but he’s having trouble accepting that he isn’t a superhero. The story was gripping and beautiful and I want to tell you everything that happened, but if you don’t actually read the book, you’ll miss the beauty of it.
The story was raw and real – but not necessarily realistic. Maybe it’s the fact that Everly had to grow too fast, or that Callum is a smart genius child, but they both seemed eon’s ahead of their time. The dialogue was real and raw, but often more poetic and “confessional” than I’ve ever heard, even from adults. Sometimes it was great, other times it kind of detracted from the novel and made you sit back like, “Wait… they’re only like 20, right?” That being said, this type of dialogue left room for a lot of life lessons that really hit home for me, and it really added to the overall feel of the novel.
One thing that really impacted me was Callum’s obsession with the word “just” and its effect on how a statement comes across. It’s amazing how, when you think about it, one word can change how you respond to a statement. “It was just a million dollars” versus “It was a million dollars” – it’s a big difference in how someone comes across, and my use of the word will be something that I’ll keep in mind in my own life.
All in all, this book was a beautifully written novel. The characters were well crafted with unique and surprising personalities. With a captivating story line, from Callum’s POV, through which we follow him through school, his practicum, and his career, and watching him and Everly navigate every obstacle that comes their way, this story will hit you straight through the heart.
I know I’m making this sound cheesy, but honestly this is a breathtaking novel. Definitely would recommend.
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
World Building: 4/5
Writing: 4.5/5
Overall: 5/5
GoodReads: 4.49/5
There, that’s it. Right there. Done.
Okay, not really, but honestly this book went way beyond any of my expectations.
This is a tale of life and learning to take chances, even when all the odds are stacked against you. This book is about perseverance in the face of adversity. This book is about understanding that life isn’t always fair, but it should never prevent you from doing what you aspire to do.
Callum was doing just fine in school until Everly came around. An enigma to everyone, the only one she was civil with was Callum. Through their chats they learned that neither is what they seem – Everly wants to experience the world, but is afraid of what could happen, while Callum wants to help people, but he’s having trouble accepting that he isn’t a superhero. The story was gripping and beautiful and I want to tell you everything that happened, but if you don’t actually read the book, you’ll miss the beauty of it.
The story was raw and real – but not necessarily realistic. Maybe it’s the fact that Everly had to grow too fast, or that Callum is a smart genius child, but they both seemed eon’s ahead of their time. The dialogue was real and raw, but often more poetic and “confessional” than I’ve ever heard, even from adults. Sometimes it was great, other times it kind of detracted from the novel and made you sit back like, “Wait… they’re only like 20, right?” That being said, this type of dialogue left room for a lot of life lessons that really hit home for me, and it really added to the overall feel of the novel.
One thing that really impacted me was Callum’s obsession with the word “just” and its effect on how a statement comes across. It’s amazing how, when you think about it, one word can change how you respond to a statement. “It was just a million dollars” versus “It was a million dollars” – it’s a big difference in how someone comes across, and my use of the word will be something that I’ll keep in mind in my own life.
All in all, this book was a beautifully written novel. The characters were well crafted with unique and surprising personalities. With a captivating story line, from Callum’s POV, through which we follow him through school, his practicum, and his career, and watching him and Everly navigate every obstacle that comes their way, this story will hit you straight through the heart.
I know I’m making this sound cheesy, but honestly this is a breathtaking novel. Definitely would recommend.
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
World Building: 4/5
Writing: 4.5/5
Overall: 5/5
GoodReads: 4.49/5
May 4, 2016
4.5 STARS!
Wow. Infinite Dolls is a beautifully written story about finding love when you least expect it. It will tug your heart in multiple places...more like it was being stabbed multiple times. You will definitely have THE FEELS. It left me speechless and an emotional mess. It made me appreciate living in the moment and the people I have in life. My heart still hurts...hours after finishing it.
Thoughts:
PLOT LINE - I really don't have the words to describe how heart wrenching this story can be. It just sucks you in and leaves you wondering...about everything. Everly Brighton was part of a test. An unsolvable test meant to fail students. Callum Trovatto is willing to accept the challenge. He just didn't know love will play a part in it. It came unexpectedly...just like anything in life.The more Everly tried to distance herself, the more Callum became intrigued. She became less of an assignment and more of a story waiting to be unraveled.
These characters will go through a lot of development. They have grown so much through out the story...they seemed like different people near the end. The story was also pretty realistic. All the problems Everly and Callum had to go through...readers will find a way to connect with them.
CHEMISTRY - From the beginning, it's like they had some sort of secret language they can only understand. It's this connection filled with riddles, which translated into poetry. That first touch, it was the start of a beautiful relationship...one that can never be broken. No matter who or what stands in their way. Maybe it was the mystery behind Everly that left Callum in awe. In awe of her beauty, seeing past her condition and truly seeing her for who she is. A broken girl, willing to break free. It was like he can see her soul...a light, which too can shine through his darkest moments. They are meant for each other. A balance they both needed.
ENDING - It just killed me. Everything was perfect. I have no other words to describe it.
*ARC kindly provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Wow. Infinite Dolls is a beautifully written story about finding love when you least expect it. It will tug your heart in multiple places...more like it was being stabbed multiple times. You will definitely have THE FEELS. It left me speechless and an emotional mess. It made me appreciate living in the moment and the people I have in life. My heart still hurts...hours after finishing it.
Thoughts:
PLOT LINE - I really don't have the words to describe how heart wrenching this story can be. It just sucks you in and leaves you wondering...about everything. Everly Brighton was part of a test. An unsolvable test meant to fail students. Callum Trovatto is willing to accept the challenge. He just didn't know love will play a part in it. It came unexpectedly...just like anything in life.The more Everly tried to distance herself, the more Callum became intrigued. She became less of an assignment and more of a story waiting to be unraveled.
These characters will go through a lot of development. They have grown so much through out the story...they seemed like different people near the end. The story was also pretty realistic. All the problems Everly and Callum had to go through...readers will find a way to connect with them.
CHEMISTRY - From the beginning, it's like they had some sort of secret language they can only understand. It's this connection filled with riddles, which translated into poetry. That first touch, it was the start of a beautiful relationship...one that can never be broken. No matter who or what stands in their way. Maybe it was the mystery behind Everly that left Callum in awe. In awe of her beauty, seeing past her condition and truly seeing her for who she is. A broken girl, willing to break free. It was like he can see her soul...a light, which too can shine through his darkest moments. They are meant for each other. A balance they both needed.
ENDING - It just killed me. Everything was perfect. I have no other words to describe it.
*ARC kindly provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2018
Infinite praises for this amazing book!!! I loved this book so much. What a beautiful story about love, loss, staying strong, and staying in the now. This story was so beautifully written and definitely tugged at my heartstrings.
"Everly sat silent and composed. Her eyes listened, her ears absorbed. She was like a journal entry, comfortable and leading" This is an example of the amazing fresh writing style in this book.
Everly has some secrets and Callum is clueless to them. He has a colorful past while she seems to want to know more. I loved these characters especially Everly. She seemed so cool and funny. Callum was beyond swoon worthy and sweet, patient, loving, and most of all genuine. Reading about his huge heart made me smile throughout this whole book. I need me a Callum like yesterday!!!!!
This is the first book I have read by this author. I loved it and am very interested in reading much more by her. Her writing style is fresh, fast, fun, and VERY addicting as I had no intentions of puting this book down to cook. And if that isn't a great sign of a wonderful book than i don't know what is. I highly recommend this book.
"Everly sat silent and composed. Her eyes listened, her ears absorbed. She was like a journal entry, comfortable and leading" This is an example of the amazing fresh writing style in this book.
Everly has some secrets and Callum is clueless to them. He has a colorful past while she seems to want to know more. I loved these characters especially Everly. She seemed so cool and funny. Callum was beyond swoon worthy and sweet, patient, loving, and most of all genuine. Reading about his huge heart made me smile throughout this whole book. I need me a Callum like yesterday!!!!!
This is the first book I have read by this author. I loved it and am very interested in reading much more by her. Her writing style is fresh, fast, fun, and VERY addicting as I had no intentions of puting this book down to cook. And if that isn't a great sign of a wonderful book than i don't know what is. I highly recommend this book.
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