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It's All Your Fault
Up until forty-eight hours ago, Caitlin had
Tasted alcohol, kissed a boy, sang in public at the top of her lungs, kidnapped anyone or --- WHAT? STOLEN A CONVERTIBLE?
Now she's in jail and has no idea what to
The police, her parents, the mayor, all of those camera crews and everyone on Twitter.
She has just noticed
Her nose is pierced and -- WAIT? IS THAT A TATTOO?
She blames one person for the entire insane
Her famous cousin.
Who is also her former best friend.
Who she has HATED for the past four years.
Who she also might miss like crazy.
IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT, HELLER HARRIGAN!!!!
Tasted alcohol, kissed a boy, sang in public at the top of her lungs, kidnapped anyone or --- WHAT? STOLEN A CONVERTIBLE?
Now she's in jail and has no idea what to
The police, her parents, the mayor, all of those camera crews and everyone on Twitter.
She has just noticed
Her nose is pierced and -- WAIT? IS THAT A TATTOO?
She blames one person for the entire insane
Her famous cousin.
Who is also her former best friend.
Who she has HATED for the past four years.
Who she also might miss like crazy.
IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT, HELLER HARRIGAN!!!!
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2016
49 people are currently reading
4181 people want to read
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January 28, 2016
Available now!
Happy New Year! I hope 2016 will be full of many amazing books for us all! I've been MIA for a little while, travelling between Los Angeles, New York and London, but I should be back to obsessively checking out the books you're all reviewing from now on :)
It's All Your Fault was one of the last books I read in 2015. I managed to get my hands on an ARC but, to be honest, I hadn't really heard anything about the book or author before I started reading. So it was a very pleasant surprise when Mr Rudnick had me snorting with laughter from page one.
This really is such a fun book. It's quite lighthearted and silly, but for once I actually welcomed some laugh-out-loud humour amid all the dramatic contemporaries and bloody fantasies I generally like to pick up. The characters, though comedic, are fantastic. The dynamic between Caitlin and her cousin - Heller Harrigan - is absolutely hilarious. It's just an enjoyable, improbable adventure across New York City.
Caitlin is a good Christian girl, who sings in her family choir and is never found without her knee socks. But then she is suddenly assigned the task of chaperoning her trouble-prone, just out of rehab, teen star cousin - Heller Harrigan - to ensure Heller doesn't drink, do drugs, have sex or otherwise dirty her public image in the run-up to the movie's release.
Angel Wars is a huge franchise that Heller stars in and obviously (hilariously) alludes to both Twilight and The Hunger Games, with nods to the plots of the aforementioned, the crazy fans, and the attention garnered by the male actors. In a series of bizarre events that take our innocent Caitlin around Brooklyn, we see her increasingly dragged outside her comfort zone and towards parties, alcohol and - oh my - boys!
Both funny and touching, it's soon obvious that Caitlin and Heller have a lot to learn from each other. Their different personalities drive the novel and its humour, giving many moments that are giggle-worthy but also full of heart.
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Happy New Year! I hope 2016 will be full of many amazing books for us all! I've been MIA for a little while, travelling between Los Angeles, New York and London, but I should be back to obsessively checking out the books you're all reviewing from now on :)
It's All Your Fault was one of the last books I read in 2015. I managed to get my hands on an ARC but, to be honest, I hadn't really heard anything about the book or author before I started reading. So it was a very pleasant surprise when Mr Rudnick had me snorting with laughter from page one.
This really is such a fun book. It's quite lighthearted and silly, but for once I actually welcomed some laugh-out-loud humour amid all the dramatic contemporaries and bloody fantasies I generally like to pick up. The characters, though comedic, are fantastic. The dynamic between Caitlin and her cousin - Heller Harrigan - is absolutely hilarious. It's just an enjoyable, improbable adventure across New York City.
Caitlin is a good Christian girl, who sings in her family choir and is never found without her knee socks. But then she is suddenly assigned the task of chaperoning her trouble-prone, just out of rehab, teen star cousin - Heller Harrigan - to ensure Heller doesn't drink, do drugs, have sex or otherwise dirty her public image in the run-up to the movie's release.
Angel Wars is a huge franchise that Heller stars in and obviously (hilariously) alludes to both Twilight and The Hunger Games, with nods to the plots of the aforementioned, the crazy fans, and the attention garnered by the male actors. In a series of bizarre events that take our innocent Caitlin around Brooklyn, we see her increasingly dragged outside her comfort zone and towards parties, alcohol and - oh my - boys!
Both funny and touching, it's soon obvious that Caitlin and Heller have a lot to learn from each other. Their different personalities drive the novel and its humour, giving many moments that are giggle-worthy but also full of heart.
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September 22, 2015
Laughed so hard, then kept wanting to read lines out loud to people! SO FUNNY, but also sweetly touching.
January 20, 2018
JESUS! - *smack from Catey* What a surprising and refreshing story! Finally a contemporary YA that doesn't attach the greatest importance to romance but rather insists on picturing family and friendship bonds!
FUCK YEAH. (sorry Catey, just deal with it)
Yet I have to admit that at first, the story didn't seem like something I would enjoy. Christian choir singer? Teen Movie Star? Kneesocks? (I kid, I kid, they're great - I guess so) It sure didn't scream fangirl material, to be honest. But it was without counting on the HILARIOUS (yes, I'm using CAPS because COME ON! I lost my ability to stop laughing and snorting like a crazy person on page two) dialogues and inner thoughts and situations and EVERYTHING.
(here lies the moment when I realize that this review will be nothing more than my random thoughts)
(I'm sorry)
(No, I don't believe in penance)
(I'm no Caitlin)
What you need to know is that Caitlin and Heller, albeit being cousins, haven't seen each others for four years (for a reason that involves a TV show called Anna Banana, a chain, and a gigantic metallic arm - you wish you'd know, right?) when Caitlin learns that she's the Chosen One to make her cousin fucking behave (think no sex, no alcohol, no drugs, no *insert random fun activity*) for the weekend during which Angel Wars, Heller's new movie, is launched for everyone to see.
It won't come as a surprise that they're both unhappy about this situation.
"I'll do it," I said proudly, although I was also trying to sound selfless and humble because that's who I am. "I'll go."
Well, not really. I mean, Caitlin does wait for apologies and for her cousin to understand how better and healthier and perfect her lifestyle is (yes, she is *cough* *a little* *cough* judgmental). She doesn't want to take pride in it, though. She's a good Christian. She don't do boasting.
"I'd told her that if she kept skipping school and using bad words that terrible things would happen. While I didn't want to act superior and snitty and tell Heller and everyone else I told you so, well, I TOLD YOU SO.
YOU'RE WELCOME."
Much.
It follows their (not always believable) adventures during this *not* crazy weekend (Catey does end in jail, so there's that) during which they'll realize that maybe, just maybe, they both own a part of the answers to their struggles. Neither of them is perfect in any way (but far from it), and I found it wonderful. Beyond all these - Trust me on this. Just do it - laugh out loud passages, this story is about overtaking your fears and your past. Moving on. Taking risks. Understanding that perhaps we all have our crazy sides and that's for the best.
"Catey, you were so on it," said Sophie. "You just stood there and you looked around and you saw this convertible. You pointed at it and you said, 'The Lord provides.' "
"You looked up to heaven and you gave this little salute," said Heller."
Moreover, the way Paul Rudnick managed to picture the fan world was fantastic and filled with self-derision. Think about Angel Wars like a mash up of The Hunger Games and Angelfall (or any YA PNR book really). Now think about fandoms, Teams, crazy fangirls and boys who don't know when to let it GO (LET IT GOOOO) (you're welcome). Think about the level of attention and scrutiny the actors who play these roles are under. Frankly? I find it terrifying.
See, I'm not really a fan person. I know - I KNOW - it can seem so crazy because I do fangirl (A LOT) about many books, but
1) The only actors I know are those I've known for 10 years. So WHAT? It takes TIME to remember all these names. Like, right now? I wouldn't be able to write Peeta's character name. Don't kill me Chels. I don’t know, people keep telling me their names and THEY DON'T STUCK. I AM A LOST CAUSE.
2) Actually, I would feel pretty lame if I met these actors - each time I did, I never knew what to say because there's this moment when you realize that no matter how many movies they starred, you have no idea who these people really are. No. Freaking. Clue.
What does a Anna meets a Movie Star looks like?
Hello...
*blinks*
...You.
Your movie was amazing!
*awkward silence*
Okay! Now I'm gonna go... there... for some reason.
*internal cringing*
I'm not saying that fans are ridiculous and that I'm better than them. I'm sure not. Yet I found incredibly interesting to see those two opposite opinions - Caitlin's and Heller's - being taken into account. As usual in life, there's no such thing as a general right answer, and it took a great journey for them to understand it. I enjoyed every step of it.
Oh, and there's that :
"In so many YA books the heroine, who's just a regular girl, has to choose between two dreamboats who are both, for no particular reason, madly in love with her, which is probably why these books are labeled fiction."
(...) Because yes, there are boys, but don't worry, they make for the funniest scenes and ... Oh, well. I'll let you see for yourself *wink*
► In a word, here's a book that doesn't take itself seriously but ends being absolutely endearing and so clever. If the characters come as stereotypical, in my opinon that's completely intentional, and that's what makes this book so enjoyable. Recommended
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May 5, 2016
Review posted on Fafa's Book Corner !
Beware spoilers ahead!
This book was recommended to me by my GR friend Anna ! Click on her name to read her review.
I had heard about this book in the beginning of the year. It was one of those books that for the most part went unnoticed. While the synopsis sounded hilarious it didn't grab my attention. Then a few weeks back on Anna's blog, her co-bloggers were putting books that they recommended. I saw It's All Your Fault and found out that it was in my library. I thought 'Why not' as I'm always in search of hilarious books. I am happy to say that I enjoyed it!
The book begins with Caitlin in jail. She explains what's mentioned in the synopsis. Two more chapters of rambling and we're then taken to beginning. Caitlin hasn't been in contact with her famous cousin Hellar in four years. Much to Caitlin's surprise her Aunt Nancy is over.
Aunt Nancy explains that over the past year Hellar has spiraled out of control. Hellar developed an addiction and was sent to rehab. The next day Hellar would be released to do interviews and whatnot for her lasted movie Angel Wars. Angel Wars is an extremely popular book series and everyone's counting on Hellar not to screw up.
In order to ensure that Hellar doesn't epically screw up they want her to get some body guard. Aunt Nancy doesn't want some random nobody guarding her. She asks Caitlin to be said bodyguard. Aunt Nancy explains that Hellars people don't trust her and what better person to ask than Caitlin who is obedient and determined. At first Caitlin is hesitant because the last time she saw Hellar things didn't end well. Caitlin agrees deciding that this is her mission from God.
When Caitlin runs into Hellar again she realizes that her mission is much harder than she thought it would be. But nonetheless Caitlin continues on having faith in God and herself. While Hellar spends most of her time mad at Caitlin for ruining her fun, Caitlin carries on. That is until Hellar goes to meet a child with cancer for a Make-A-Wish program. Sophie (said girl) has this list of three things she wants to do. All of which include illegal activities.
Throughout this journey Caitlin and Hellar work together to make Sophie happy.Caitlin gets a glimpse into the life of a movie star and overcomes several of her fears. She also has a few sweet moments with Hellar and eventually the of them make up. Caitlin gains several new experiences. Some good most bad but comes to a conclusion about how she leads her life.
I did not expect to enjoy this book! I thought that it would be a three star rating. This book surprised me in a good way! The book is written in first person in Caitlin's point of view. There are chapter numbers and titles. Which was unique as I've never read a book formatted as such. It's quite a small book with a large font. Note that I am talking about the hardcover edition. The writing style is good. I got a good understanding of all the characters.
Caitlin is home schooled. Due to this she lacks a lot of understanding in social interaction. She's also not that good at taking ques from people. What's interesting about Caitlin is that she has anxiety. Throughout her life and the book she lets her anxiety define her. She doesn't get out much because she's too scared to. Which is why she doesn't get along with Hellar. Hellar has a larger than life personality and lives her life to the fullest. This includes constantly doing reckless things to gain new experiences.
In the beginning to relationship between Hellar and Caitlin is quite tense. Throughout Caitlin's body guard duties the two of them try to ignore what happened between them that ruined their relationship. When it comes time to talk they end up fighting. After having some time to think things through, the two do make up.
I really loved how the anxiety was dealt with in this book! I've never read about anxiety literally controlling someone's life. It was interesting and well done. I found it so interesting how Caitlin needed to say tap an object three times otherwise nothing in her life would be alright. It was well researched and interesting to read about.
All the relationships were well done! Especially Hellar and Caitlin. They had so much history that it was hard for them to interact with one-another. I thought that I would dislike Hellar but I had no problem with her. She had a pretty hard life and did a well job pulling through. I liked reading about Hellar's Hollywood life. I've never read about an actress before so it was really interesting. I will definitely keep a lookout for more books focusing on Hollywood.
While Caitlin was judgmental throughout the book I didn't mind her either. I liked reading about how her faith in God pushed her through. Never once did she think about giving up. Instead she rationalized that nothing in life is easy so she plowed through. Their are several mentions about Christianity but it never bothered me. It intrigued me and I admired Caitlin. Caitlin also learns that no one can be perfect even in terms of religion. Which I think is an important lesson and I'm glad it was in the book.
The journey that Hellar, Caitlin and Sophie took was wild and completely crazy! But at the same time it was refreshing and fun to read about! I was never once annoyed instead I had a ball reading about the crazy things they did.
This book has a larger focus on the characters and the relationships with one-another. It has literally no romance which was refreshing to read about. I really appreciated how the larger focus was put on family.
I only had three problems with It's All Your Fault. Some things that happened were completely unrealistic. The sentences were really long and almost run-on sentences. There were times that I just skimmed the sentences. And there were a lot of caps lock to express the characters shock or anger. Nonetheless I had tons of fun reading this book!
Overall this was a fun read! I recommend this to everyone because it's a unique contemporary book.
Beware spoilers ahead!
This book was recommended to me by my GR friend Anna ! Click on her name to read her review.
I had heard about this book in the beginning of the year. It was one of those books that for the most part went unnoticed. While the synopsis sounded hilarious it didn't grab my attention. Then a few weeks back on Anna's blog, her co-bloggers were putting books that they recommended. I saw It's All Your Fault and found out that it was in my library. I thought 'Why not' as I'm always in search of hilarious books. I am happy to say that I enjoyed it!
The book begins with Caitlin in jail. She explains what's mentioned in the synopsis. Two more chapters of rambling and we're then taken to beginning. Caitlin hasn't been in contact with her famous cousin Hellar in four years. Much to Caitlin's surprise her Aunt Nancy is over.
Aunt Nancy explains that over the past year Hellar has spiraled out of control. Hellar developed an addiction and was sent to rehab. The next day Hellar would be released to do interviews and whatnot for her lasted movie Angel Wars. Angel Wars is an extremely popular book series and everyone's counting on Hellar not to screw up.
In order to ensure that Hellar doesn't epically screw up they want her to get some body guard. Aunt Nancy doesn't want some random nobody guarding her. She asks Caitlin to be said bodyguard. Aunt Nancy explains that Hellars people don't trust her and what better person to ask than Caitlin who is obedient and determined. At first Caitlin is hesitant because the last time she saw Hellar things didn't end well. Caitlin agrees deciding that this is her mission from God.
When Caitlin runs into Hellar again she realizes that her mission is much harder than she thought it would be. But nonetheless Caitlin continues on having faith in God and herself. While Hellar spends most of her time mad at Caitlin for ruining her fun, Caitlin carries on. That is until Hellar goes to meet a child with cancer for a Make-A-Wish program. Sophie (said girl) has this list of three things she wants to do. All of which include illegal activities.
Throughout this journey Caitlin and Hellar work together to make Sophie happy.Caitlin gets a glimpse into the life of a movie star and overcomes several of her fears. She also has a few sweet moments with Hellar and eventually the of them make up. Caitlin gains several new experiences. Some good most bad but comes to a conclusion about how she leads her life.
I did not expect to enjoy this book! I thought that it would be a three star rating. This book surprised me in a good way! The book is written in first person in Caitlin's point of view. There are chapter numbers and titles. Which was unique as I've never read a book formatted as such. It's quite a small book with a large font. Note that I am talking about the hardcover edition. The writing style is good. I got a good understanding of all the characters.
Caitlin is home schooled. Due to this she lacks a lot of understanding in social interaction. She's also not that good at taking ques from people. What's interesting about Caitlin is that she has anxiety. Throughout her life and the book she lets her anxiety define her. She doesn't get out much because she's too scared to. Which is why she doesn't get along with Hellar. Hellar has a larger than life personality and lives her life to the fullest. This includes constantly doing reckless things to gain new experiences.
In the beginning to relationship between Hellar and Caitlin is quite tense. Throughout Caitlin's body guard duties the two of them try to ignore what happened between them that ruined their relationship. When it comes time to talk they end up fighting. After having some time to think things through, the two do make up.
I really loved how the anxiety was dealt with in this book! I've never read about anxiety literally controlling someone's life. It was interesting and well done. I found it so interesting how Caitlin needed to say tap an object three times otherwise nothing in her life would be alright. It was well researched and interesting to read about.
All the relationships were well done! Especially Hellar and Caitlin. They had so much history that it was hard for them to interact with one-another. I thought that I would dislike Hellar but I had no problem with her. She had a pretty hard life and did a well job pulling through. I liked reading about Hellar's Hollywood life. I've never read about an actress before so it was really interesting. I will definitely keep a lookout for more books focusing on Hollywood.
While Caitlin was judgmental throughout the book I didn't mind her either. I liked reading about how her faith in God pushed her through. Never once did she think about giving up. Instead she rationalized that nothing in life is easy so she plowed through. Their are several mentions about Christianity but it never bothered me. It intrigued me and I admired Caitlin. Caitlin also learns that no one can be perfect even in terms of religion. Which I think is an important lesson and I'm glad it was in the book.
The journey that Hellar, Caitlin and Sophie took was wild and completely crazy! But at the same time it was refreshing and fun to read about! I was never once annoyed instead I had a ball reading about the crazy things they did.
This book has a larger focus on the characters and the relationships with one-another. It has literally no romance which was refreshing to read about. I really appreciated how the larger focus was put on family.
I only had three problems with It's All Your Fault. Some things that happened were completely unrealistic. The sentences were really long and almost run-on sentences. There were times that I just skimmed the sentences. And there were a lot of caps lock to express the characters shock or anger. Nonetheless I had tons of fun reading this book!
Overall this was a fun read! I recommend this to everyone because it's a unique contemporary book.
February 19, 2016
3 1/2 stars. This was honestly so cheesy and silly, but I think it will totally satisfy anyone's craving for a funny, fast-paced chick lit.
The characters were all stereotypical and acted overly dramatic but that just added to the hilariousness. The whole cast was a huge ball of laughter. Catey was your typical well-mannered, homeschooled, Christian girl who wore knee socks while her cousin Heller was her polar opposite - loud, wild, and obscene.
When Catey is tasked to look after her cousin for the weekend things quickly get out of hand. Catey is faced with profanity, inappropriate behavior, drugs, and alcohol - all of which are quite shocking to her. And her job is to keep her cousin away from all of these things. But what will happen when the bad influences eventually rub off on Catey?
There was a friendship theme that was heavily emphasized through Catey and Heller. The two eventually learned to work together despite their differences and there was even a secret from the girls' past revealed in the end.
The plot was so fun and humorous and I cracked up when Catey's energetic, bubbly personality came in full force to save an awkward interview or when Heller and Catey were off on a wild adventure involving a tattoo parlor, a bank robbery, and a sweet cake factory.
Heller was an actress and this book showed a glimpse into the Hollywood industry. Heller admitted to Catey how stressful her life was and that all the comments about her weight, who she was dating, and the latest scandal in her life really got to her. She couldn't always shrug off the hateful comments - sometimes the only thing she could do was drown her sorrows in alcohol or parties.
This was a cute book with some positive themes, though it could get a bit overly ridiculous at times with LOTS OF SENTENCES IN CAPS LOCK, not to mention exclamation points!!!! But that only added to the quirky and sweetness of this story that ultimately focused on two friends learning to overcome their problems.
The characters were all stereotypical and acted overly dramatic but that just added to the hilariousness. The whole cast was a huge ball of laughter. Catey was your typical well-mannered, homeschooled, Christian girl who wore knee socks while her cousin Heller was her polar opposite - loud, wild, and obscene.
When Catey is tasked to look after her cousin for the weekend things quickly get out of hand. Catey is faced with profanity, inappropriate behavior, drugs, and alcohol - all of which are quite shocking to her. And her job is to keep her cousin away from all of these things. But what will happen when the bad influences eventually rub off on Catey?
There was a friendship theme that was heavily emphasized through Catey and Heller. The two eventually learned to work together despite their differences and there was even a secret from the girls' past revealed in the end.
The plot was so fun and humorous and I cracked up when Catey's energetic, bubbly personality came in full force to save an awkward interview or when Heller and Catey were off on a wild adventure involving a tattoo parlor, a bank robbery, and a sweet cake factory.
Heller was an actress and this book showed a glimpse into the Hollywood industry. Heller admitted to Catey how stressful her life was and that all the comments about her weight, who she was dating, and the latest scandal in her life really got to her. She couldn't always shrug off the hateful comments - sometimes the only thing she could do was drown her sorrows in alcohol or parties.
This was a cute book with some positive themes, though it could get a bit overly ridiculous at times with LOTS OF SENTENCES IN CAPS LOCK, not to mention exclamation points!!!! But that only added to the quirky and sweetness of this story that ultimately focused on two friends learning to overcome their problems.
May 10, 2017
"No one under the age of eighteen needs a cell phone unless they're a surgeon, a drug dealer, or a prostitute.”
July 16, 2018
Do you ever read a book so horrible you feel obligated to write a review of it just to tell the world how horrible it is? For me, this is most definitely one of those books.
Plot: A sheltered, home schooled, uptight Christian girl named Caitlin is sent to look after her deeply troubled actress cousin, Heller. Heller is basically pulling a Lindsay Lohan. She's one of the top actresses of her generation but as typical of many Hollywood starlets has headed down the path of alcohol, drugs, clubbing and a few trips to rehab. With her family worried about her, Heller's parents think that Caitlin has the power to change Heller and help her see the error of her ways.
First, I absolutely hated the characters and found most of this book to be pretty offensive. Both Caitlin and Heller are just so one dimensional. Caitlin is such a stereotype of the home schooled, Christian girl who never leaves her parents house. As a Christian I was absolutely offended at how the author portrayed them. Not every Christian is uptight and thinks they're going to hell just because they wear a short skirt and wear makeup. I've also encountered many people who are in fact home schooled and I found them to be very intelligent, cultured, socialized and well rounded people. My guess is that the author thought he was being funny but it was just flat out offensive. In addition to this Caitlin also has a severe anxiety disorder. The way this was handled appalled me. Anxiety is not something to take lightly, it is not something that is just in your head. I was really surprised how Caitlin's family never addressed her anxiety and instead their solution was just to keep her at home for most of her life and not let her get help and on top of that that her anxiety was portrayed in a comedic manner. On a different note, Heller, Caitlin's cousin is just so vile. I recognize that she had her problems but she did absolutely nothing to help herself. I tried to feel compassion for her as the issues she encountered were very serious but she was profane, rude, manipulative, expected everyone to clean up her messes and took no responsibility for her actions.
Neither of these characters really evolved throughout the novel. Sure, they encountered many problems but did they learn from them? In my opinion, no they did not. They remained the same immature and awful people they were when the book started.
I think the author was trying to convey that Hollywood is a very dangerous place especially for young people. There's the constant pressure to be perfect, everything you do is under the microscope, and you're expected to attend so many red carpet and social events, where quite honestly it is so easy to get your hands on drugs and alcohol (which are actually encouraged in many circles). However, I thought he could have conveyed this in a much more decent manner. Again, this book was in no way funny and very offensive. I rarely ever say these words but Paul Rudnick should never write another book. Ever. Give this one a major pass.
Plot: A sheltered, home schooled, uptight Christian girl named Caitlin is sent to look after her deeply troubled actress cousin, Heller. Heller is basically pulling a Lindsay Lohan. She's one of the top actresses of her generation but as typical of many Hollywood starlets has headed down the path of alcohol, drugs, clubbing and a few trips to rehab. With her family worried about her, Heller's parents think that Caitlin has the power to change Heller and help her see the error of her ways.
First, I absolutely hated the characters and found most of this book to be pretty offensive. Both Caitlin and Heller are just so one dimensional. Caitlin is such a stereotype of the home schooled, Christian girl who never leaves her parents house. As a Christian I was absolutely offended at how the author portrayed them. Not every Christian is uptight and thinks they're going to hell just because they wear a short skirt and wear makeup. I've also encountered many people who are in fact home schooled and I found them to be very intelligent, cultured, socialized and well rounded people. My guess is that the author thought he was being funny but it was just flat out offensive. In addition to this Caitlin also has a severe anxiety disorder. The way this was handled appalled me. Anxiety is not something to take lightly, it is not something that is just in your head. I was really surprised how Caitlin's family never addressed her anxiety and instead their solution was just to keep her at home for most of her life and not let her get help and on top of that that her anxiety was portrayed in a comedic manner. On a different note, Heller, Caitlin's cousin is just so vile. I recognize that she had her problems but she did absolutely nothing to help herself. I tried to feel compassion for her as the issues she encountered were very serious but she was profane, rude, manipulative, expected everyone to clean up her messes and took no responsibility for her actions.
Neither of these characters really evolved throughout the novel. Sure, they encountered many problems but did they learn from them? In my opinion, no they did not. They remained the same immature and awful people they were when the book started.
I think the author was trying to convey that Hollywood is a very dangerous place especially for young people. There's the constant pressure to be perfect, everything you do is under the microscope, and you're expected to attend so many red carpet and social events, where quite honestly it is so easy to get your hands on drugs and alcohol (which are actually encouraged in many circles). However, I thought he could have conveyed this in a much more decent manner. Again, this book was in no way funny and very offensive. I rarely ever say these words but Paul Rudnick should never write another book. Ever. Give this one a major pass.
September 24, 2017
"Of course I love Heller because we're related so my mom says I have to..."
That one sentence aptly describes the relationship between the two girls, Caitlin and Heller.
Picture this: A conservative, home-schooled 17-year-old is sent to "babysit" her ultra famous cousin for the weekend of her biggest movie release. All she's told is to keep an eye on Heller and not get in trouble, which was like shoving a baby deer into a loud supermarket and ordering it not to knock anything over. Not going to happen. Of course Caitlin got in trouble.
This book was pure entertainment and a literal laugh-out-loud romp. I laughed so much my stomach started aching! (Chapter 17 was simple comedic genius!!!)
It involves two Hollywood hunks, a crazy aunt, crazed fans, and a break-in. What more do you need?
Highly recommend.
That one sentence aptly describes the relationship between the two girls, Caitlin and Heller.
Picture this: A conservative, home-schooled 17-year-old is sent to "babysit" her ultra famous cousin for the weekend of her biggest movie release. All she's told is to keep an eye on Heller and not get in trouble, which was like shoving a baby deer into a loud supermarket and ordering it not to knock anything over. Not going to happen. Of course Caitlin got in trouble.
This book was pure entertainment and a literal laugh-out-loud romp. I laughed so much my stomach started aching! (Chapter 17 was simple comedic genius!!!)
It involves two Hollywood hunks, a crazy aunt, crazed fans, and a break-in. What more do you need?
Highly recommend.
pass
February 15, 2016http://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/14/fas...
“I want to write things that will be a relief from the earnest torment of typical Y.A. literature,” he said at a diner next door to P.S. 3 where he ordered a glass of orange juice."
OH FUCK YOU.
You can take your "something different" YA book and get the FUCK out of a community that is sick and tired of the snobbery. We have plenty of good books, thank you, without the White Male population trying to come and and redefine it. The ladies are good. We don't need your fucking assholery here.
Bugger off.
“I want to write things that will be a relief from the earnest torment of typical Y.A. literature,” he said at a diner next door to P.S. 3 where he ordered a glass of orange juice."
OH FUCK YOU.
You can take your "something different" YA book and get the FUCK out of a community that is sick and tired of the snobbery. We have plenty of good books, thank you, without the White Male population trying to come and and redefine it. The ladies are good. We don't need your fucking assholery here.
Bugger off.
April 10, 2017
3 stars. This wasn't necessarily the best thing I've ever read, but it was definitely fun.
I have to admit, the humor style didn't totally work for me. There were funny moments and I was definitely entertained, but I wasn't cracking up every ten seconds like I was when reading No Good Deed or Beauty Queens.
There's a nice parody here of fandom culture. Angel Wars is a combination of the Hunger Games and any typical paranormal romance. It's a loving parody and definitely an entertaining one. This was actually the funniest part of the book for me.
Thank goodness this story had something more than just humor. The relationship between Caitlin and Heller is sweet and heartfelt. Caitlin's character arc, while suitably messy for a comedic contemporary book, is executed fairly well. There's no annoying romance here; there's a brief love triangle parody, but it's not the focus at all.
It's All Your Fault is not a must-read, but it's definitely an entertaining and enjoyable read.
I have to admit, the humor style didn't totally work for me. There were funny moments and I was definitely entertained, but I wasn't cracking up every ten seconds like I was when reading No Good Deed or Beauty Queens.
There's a nice parody here of fandom culture. Angel Wars is a combination of the Hunger Games and any typical paranormal romance. It's a loving parody and definitely an entertaining one. This was actually the funniest part of the book for me.
Thank goodness this story had something more than just humor. The relationship between Caitlin and Heller is sweet and heartfelt. Caitlin's character arc, while suitably messy for a comedic contemporary book, is executed fairly well. There's no annoying romance here; there's a brief love triangle parody, but it's not the focus at all.
It's All Your Fault is not a must-read, but it's definitely an entertaining and enjoyable read.
July 11, 2017
Reseña en el blog: http://librosdelcielo.blogspot.com.es...
En plena crisis lectora, este es el libro que necesitaba leer: no es un libro que te vaya a cambiar la vida, ni mucho menos. It's all your fault es un libro sin pretensiones, cuyo objetivo es entretener y hacer que te desternilles de la risa. Lo ha conseguido y me ha encantado.
En plena crisis lectora, este es el libro que necesitaba leer: no es un libro que te vaya a cambiar la vida, ni mucho menos. It's all your fault es un libro sin pretensiones, cuyo objetivo es entretener y hacer que te desternilles de la risa. Lo ha conseguido y me ha encantado.
April 2, 2016
История о том, как хорошая девочка Кейт, умница-разумница, хористка, христианка, гольфики-юбочки-уроки, пала на самое дно и за 48 часов докатилась до ареста.
Ну, как докатилась... подтолкнули. Кейт велели присматривать за проблемной кузиной (которая прежде была еще и лучшей подругой, но потом пути разошлись, и между девчонками пролегла ненависть), а та, во-первых, звезда, во-вторых, не гнушается наркоты и алкоголя, и в-третьих, просто выводит Кейт из себя.
Это вызов, с которым Кейт не справилась. Или справилась? Ведь за эти 48 часов она узнала о жизни больше, чем за предыдущие годы, вышла из своей крохотной зоны комфорта и наконец-то начала вести себя по-человечески.
Роман очень смешной, признаю. До жути шаблонный, да, но над некоторыми моментами я ухохатывалась в голос. Он не принесет никаких новых открытий, герои будут казаться знакомыми, ибо вы видели их уже в сотне книг/фильмов, но для поднятия настроения - самое оно. Если вас не коробит типично американский молодежный юмор.
Единственное, что дико раздражало - бесконечные капслоки и восклицательные знаки. Будто кого-то из наших СИшниц читаю, а не взрослого дядю. Полагаю, так он пытался передать ту же молодежную манеру письма, но... без нее было бы лучше, право слово.
В остальном - весьма простенькое чтиво на вечер, посмеяться и забыть.
Кстати, автор неплохо постебался над всякими "Сумерками", "Голодными играми" и прочим))
Ну, как докатилась... подтолкнули. Кейт велели присматривать за проблемной кузиной (которая прежде была еще и лучшей подругой, но потом пути разошлись, и между девчонками пролегла ненависть), а та, во-первых, звезда, во-вторых, не гнушается наркоты и алкоголя, и в-третьих, просто выводит Кейт из себя.
Это вызов, с которым Кейт не справилась. Или справилась? Ведь за эти 48 часов она узнала о жизни больше, чем за предыдущие годы, вышла из своей крохотной зоны комфорта и наконец-то начала вести себя по-человечески.
Роман очень смешной, признаю. До жути шаблонный, да, но над некоторыми моментами я ухохатывалась в голос. Он не принесет никаких новых открытий, герои будут казаться знакомыми, ибо вы видели их уже в сотне книг/фильмов, но для поднятия настроения - самое оно. Если вас не коробит типично американский молодежный юмор.
Единственное, что дико раздражало - бесконечные капслоки и восклицательные знаки. Будто кого-то из наших СИшниц читаю, а не взрослого дядю. Полагаю, так он пытался передать ту же молодежную манеру письма, но... без нее было бы лучше, право слово.
В остальном - весьма простенькое чтиво на вечер, посмеяться и забыть.
Кстати, автор неплохо постебался над всякими "Сумерками", "Голодными играми" и прочим))
October 12, 2016
IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT is about a girl named Catey who has to go to New York to help her cousin and former best friend, Heller Harrigin, from staying out of trouble before her movie "Angel Wars" premires. Heller has to spend the weekend with a girl with cancer who wanted to do all these crazy things like going to a candy factory, getting a tattoo, and jumping off a cliff. I gave this book four out of five stars because this wasn't a book that I couldn't put down. I liked this book because it has a ton of unexpected twists and turns. I would recommend this book to people who like suspenceful stories.
October 11, 2016
It's a stretch for me to give this 3 stars, Young adult is not my typical genre. Having said that it was decently entertaining! The characters were funny and reminded me of a PG-13 Hollywood version of Hannah Montana meets ICarly. Definitely a book for teens and Mom's of teenage girls.
March 15, 2016
4 stars are too much, I know. It would be better 3.5 but the author was really good, so I chosen to be good.
Review to come.
Review to come.
March 2, 2019
In the beginning I found Caitlin's voice refreshing and hilarious. But soon my demeanour changed to eye-rolling and gosh was this over-the-top! (I know it's extra like this but it still got on my nerves). In short- my enjoyment wasn't very high. Still I liked the honest parody of Angel Wars and its fandom and how Paul Rudnick writes his character to do stereotypical things but they reflect at the same time on how stupid/unrealistic this is (eg two movie stars fight over a nice small town girl? Yep of course).
February 13, 2016
This was an amazing book. Religion, jail, a weekend with fun and revelations, dares, and much much more. You will laugh your butt off.
Say hello to Caitlin, our super-religious + sheltered girl. Say hello to her cousin Heller, who is a Hollywood star + just out of rehab. Heller has a weekend full of movie stuff to do, and Caitlin is there to keep Heller on track.
I really loved that idea, though we later find out a different view on that weekend idea. One that I liked even more than what we see at the beginning of the book.
I always like it when books take place over the course of a few days, it always feels so much longer than when books take place over a longer time. I have no clue why, or how that works, but that is how it works for me.
The weekend is full with hilarious events, but also some scary things, with dares, with helping out a girl who turns out to be totally different from what we see at first (which was hilarious btw, I never saw that switch coming, so when it came my mouth just was wide open and my eyes all round, like wait whaaaaaaattttttt). The weekend is full! And in that weekend we also learn more about Heller (Is she really this bad girl that she shows to the world? Why did she drink so much? and several other things) and we find out more about Caitlin (What happened between her and Heller back some years ago? Why does she hate Heller that much?). It was all very interesting to see both characters show us their true colours and learn about them. Even if some answers took some time to pop up.
The book switches between the time in the jail to the weekend, and I think that was really well done. Sure, it jarred me out of the story at times, but mostly I was happy to see that we were getting a clearer image each time we visited. Things started to make sense.
I do have to admit that Caitlin was a worry for me. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against people who are religious (I am religious as well), but I was worried that Caitlin would be TOO much. And at times she was, at times I just wanted to duct tape her mouth so she wouldn't be able to preach and do stuff. But quite often there was this great girl who didn't immediately dive to God and preaching. And I loved that girl.
As the story continues she does loosen up a bit and gets more relaxed. She even does a few things that she never thought she would do.
I have to say one thing though, I think it was absolute BULL that she called herself a slut and other words when she kissed a guy. HER FIRST KISS guys. She never even kissed a guy, but she found herself a slut and a floozy. WTH. I found that just ridiculous and I was wondering how her parents educated her in the sex/kissing topic, or that she was so sheltered that she apparently thinks it is bad to do something that isn't in her normal daily life.
But come on girl. You are 17, kissing isn't bad, especially if you do it with just one guy. We will talk again when you keep kissing different guys in a span of a week or something. :|
I didn't like that Ava girl, what a total *insert some choice words*. Bah, those kind of people just ruin it for other people. And hurt a lot of people in the process. The actors, the writers (who the hell stalks an author????), the movie crew, and many more. :|
Heller turned out to be a great girl. At times I didn't like her though, I found her mean and rude, but as we learned more and more, I saw a different Heller and I could also imagine why she was acting like that (still not saying it is good, but I can see why she did it).
There is also a kind of love triangle going on, but I didn't mind it that much. It wasn't that much around + it was mostly the guys going after one girl (which is a change of scenery for once).
I laughed my butt off during so many parts. There are just too many to mention. This book was amazing, it had well-written characters, a great story with lots of questions and answers, a great world, and much much more. This was one of my most anticipated books of the year, and it really fulfilled all my hopes and dreams I had for it.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone!
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
Say hello to Caitlin, our super-religious + sheltered girl. Say hello to her cousin Heller, who is a Hollywood star + just out of rehab. Heller has a weekend full of movie stuff to do, and Caitlin is there to keep Heller on track.
I really loved that idea, though we later find out a different view on that weekend idea. One that I liked even more than what we see at the beginning of the book.
I always like it when books take place over the course of a few days, it always feels so much longer than when books take place over a longer time. I have no clue why, or how that works, but that is how it works for me.
The weekend is full with hilarious events, but also some scary things, with dares, with helping out a girl who turns out to be totally different from what we see at first (which was hilarious btw, I never saw that switch coming, so when it came my mouth just was wide open and my eyes all round, like wait whaaaaaaattttttt). The weekend is full! And in that weekend we also learn more about Heller (Is she really this bad girl that she shows to the world? Why did she drink so much? and several other things) and we find out more about Caitlin (What happened between her and Heller back some years ago? Why does she hate Heller that much?). It was all very interesting to see both characters show us their true colours and learn about them. Even if some answers took some time to pop up.
The book switches between the time in the jail to the weekend, and I think that was really well done. Sure, it jarred me out of the story at times, but mostly I was happy to see that we were getting a clearer image each time we visited. Things started to make sense.
I do have to admit that Caitlin was a worry for me. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against people who are religious (I am religious as well), but I was worried that Caitlin would be TOO much. And at times she was, at times I just wanted to duct tape her mouth so she wouldn't be able to preach and do stuff. But quite often there was this great girl who didn't immediately dive to God and preaching. And I loved that girl.
As the story continues she does loosen up a bit and gets more relaxed. She even does a few things that she never thought she would do.
I have to say one thing though, I think it was absolute BULL that she called herself a slut and other words when she kissed a guy. HER FIRST KISS guys. She never even kissed a guy, but she found herself a slut and a floozy. WTH. I found that just ridiculous and I was wondering how her parents educated her in the sex/kissing topic, or that she was so sheltered that she apparently thinks it is bad to do something that isn't in her normal daily life.
But come on girl. You are 17, kissing isn't bad, especially if you do it with just one guy. We will talk again when you keep kissing different guys in a span of a week or something. :|
I didn't like that Ava girl, what a total *insert some choice words*. Bah, those kind of people just ruin it for other people. And hurt a lot of people in the process. The actors, the writers (who the hell stalks an author????), the movie crew, and many more. :|
Heller turned out to be a great girl. At times I didn't like her though, I found her mean and rude, but as we learned more and more, I saw a different Heller and I could also imagine why she was acting like that (still not saying it is good, but I can see why she did it).
There is also a kind of love triangle going on, but I didn't mind it that much. It wasn't that much around + it was mostly the guys going after one girl (which is a change of scenery for once).
I laughed my butt off during so many parts. There are just too many to mention. This book was amazing, it had well-written characters, a great story with lots of questions and answers, a great world, and much much more. This was one of my most anticipated books of the year, and it really fulfilled all my hopes and dreams I had for it.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone!
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
January 18, 2016
Review:
Protagonist: This book is told from the point of view of Caitlin Singleberry, yes that's her actual last name, don't ask me why. Anyway, Caitlin is your typical all around "Good Christian Girl" which means she's uptight, pious, and stuck-up. Heller Harrigan, Caitlin's famous cousin is her polar opposite, she's a bitchy party-girl who's fallen off the wagon one too many times. It's when these two characters come together and balance each other out that they can start to look at their lives, and each other, in a whole new way. While I was annoyed with Caitlin's sanctimonious nature a lot of the time, but sometimes it can be downright laughable, in a good comedic way. Over the course of the book, though not as soon as you might think, Caitlin begins to loosen up and realize that no one's perfect, not even herself.
Romance: So there's really isn't much romance in this book. Honestly I debated even putting this section in here, but there is a romance in this book, a love triangle in fact. It's not your typical love triangle though, it's not over the top, no one drops the L-word, and it's a fun and scandalous romance for Caitlin to be caught between two boys. There's some great irony written in to the romance and some really meta moments that were really fun to read.
World-Building: Gah! There's so much to this world that I loved. First off, Heller stars in this big blockbuster YA series turned movie series. With it comes all of these great meta YA moments. Even though I know it's fiction and I don't know how much research the author put into it, I'm assuming a lot based on how real it feels, it's so interesting to see this side of things, how stressed out actors get, how they feel about online backlash of casting choices, and how one person's opinion can send the internet, and the actor, spiraling. I felt as though this was the perfect backdrop for the story and lended a lot to the story progression and some of the humor and appeal of this book. There are definitely a lot of pop culture and bookish references made, though most of them are masked with thinly veiled pseudonyms. There's a lot to this story to enjoy and learn about.
Predictability: So I have to say, other than a few things, this book was fairly unpredictable. From the start we know that somewhere down the line in the story Heller and Caitlin will end up in jail, but the ride on the way to the slammer isn't as cut and dry as you'd think. I loved seeing the way things were twisted and just how much of Caitlin's freak out was her overreacting and how much of it was the truth.
Ending: So this book doesn't really have a final climax, I mean, I guess all of the stuff after we catch back up with Caitlin in jail and how that's dealt with could be considered the final climax, but as I was reading it I never felt that doubt about where the story was going to go, that tension and feeling like things may not quite go right. The final chapter served as the cool down and there was a lot to love about it. The ending wasn't super idealistic, it still felt real and the characters still felt so real. While I know this is a stand alone I can't help but want to know what happens next.
Rating:
I'm actually surprised that I ended up giving this book five stars, when I first started it, things were a little slow, Caitlin was an annoying character, but once the story got going and I got to see more than just the surface of these character's personalities I really got invested into this world and ended up loving this book!
Protagonist: This book is told from the point of view of Caitlin Singleberry, yes that's her actual last name, don't ask me why. Anyway, Caitlin is your typical all around "Good Christian Girl" which means she's uptight, pious, and stuck-up. Heller Harrigan, Caitlin's famous cousin is her polar opposite, she's a bitchy party-girl who's fallen off the wagon one too many times. It's when these two characters come together and balance each other out that they can start to look at their lives, and each other, in a whole new way. While I was annoyed with Caitlin's sanctimonious nature a lot of the time, but sometimes it can be downright laughable, in a good comedic way. Over the course of the book, though not as soon as you might think, Caitlin begins to loosen up and realize that no one's perfect, not even herself.
Romance: So there's really isn't much romance in this book. Honestly I debated even putting this section in here, but there is a romance in this book, a love triangle in fact. It's not your typical love triangle though, it's not over the top, no one drops the L-word, and it's a fun and scandalous romance for Caitlin to be caught between two boys. There's some great irony written in to the romance and some really meta moments that were really fun to read.
World-Building: Gah! There's so much to this world that I loved. First off, Heller stars in this big blockbuster YA series turned movie series. With it comes all of these great meta YA moments. Even though I know it's fiction and I don't know how much research the author put into it, I'm assuming a lot based on how real it feels, it's so interesting to see this side of things, how stressed out actors get, how they feel about online backlash of casting choices, and how one person's opinion can send the internet, and the actor, spiraling. I felt as though this was the perfect backdrop for the story and lended a lot to the story progression and some of the humor and appeal of this book. There are definitely a lot of pop culture and bookish references made, though most of them are masked with thinly veiled pseudonyms. There's a lot to this story to enjoy and learn about.
Predictability: So I have to say, other than a few things, this book was fairly unpredictable. From the start we know that somewhere down the line in the story Heller and Caitlin will end up in jail, but the ride on the way to the slammer isn't as cut and dry as you'd think. I loved seeing the way things were twisted and just how much of Caitlin's freak out was her overreacting and how much of it was the truth.
Ending: So this book doesn't really have a final climax, I mean, I guess all of the stuff after we catch back up with Caitlin in jail and how that's dealt with could be considered the final climax, but as I was reading it I never felt that doubt about where the story was going to go, that tension and feeling like things may not quite go right. The final chapter served as the cool down and there was a lot to love about it. The ending wasn't super idealistic, it still felt real and the characters still felt so real. While I know this is a stand alone I can't help but want to know what happens next.
Rating:
I'm actually surprised that I ended up giving this book five stars, when I first started it, things were a little slow, Caitlin was an annoying character, but once the story got going and I got to see more than just the surface of these character's personalities I really got invested into this world and ended up loving this book!
January 9, 2017
First of all I have never laughed so hard while reading a book. Ever. I had tears in my eyes at times, and I have recommended this book to anyone willing to listen to me ramble about how great it is. This was everything I loved about YA books. Witty, ridiculous, crazy, laugh out loud funny, amazing characters, friendship, adventurous. Quick someone take the dictionary away from me because I can’t stop finding words to describe It’s All Your Fault.
Caitlin is a good girl. She grew up in a very religious family that is home schooled, wears knee socks, has little contact with pop culture and sings in a family band together in polyester sweaters. She is the biggest sweetheart and I have to commend Paul Rudnick with the way he described Caitlin’s anxiety disorder. It was one of the best portrayals I’ve ever read in a YA book. Seeing her battle with anxiety but at the same time slowly let herself loosen up was so realistic. It does not glorify mental illness nor does Caitlin magically become better at the end. Instead she comes to terms with who she is and how the anxiety will never go away but she can properly manage it. THIS IS SUPER IMPORTANT. People need to be reminded that even though they have a mental illness they are not broken nor will they ever been 100% over it but to accept it and manage it can lead to a happy life.
Heller is all things her namesake brings to mind. She grew up without restrictions, a young child star, drugs, drinking, out of control tabloid fueling exploits and Caitlin’s ex-best friend. She also deals with issues like addiction and depression. Watching the story around Heller and Caitlin slowly unfold and come back together is one of the most satisfying and hilarious emotional roller-coasters of 2016.
I also want to point out that the book series inside of this book that Paul Rudnick made up should seriously be made. It sounds amazing and right up a YA trilogy lovers alley.
Final thoughts:
This was a blast to read and I am so happy I won this ARC in a giveaway so I could get my hands on it sooner. I hope Rudnick makes more YA books because his writing style is amazing.
Would I recommend this book?
Yes, yes, yes 10000% over. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a serious yet funny read. This is a must buy for 2016. Although I own a paperback copy of the ARC I’m totally buying the publisher version.
April 4, 2023
13 May 2016
Caitlin is a very good girl, home-schooled, in a family singing group, well-behaved. Her cousin, Heller, is not a good girl; she's famous and out of control. The two teens used to be best friends, but thas been a while. Now they're an odd couple, and they are funny together.
I've been a fan of Rudnick since 1989, and there were a lot of novelless-years when I missed him like crazy despite Libby Gelman-Waxner's fabulous film reviews and some filmscripts (playscripts are hard to get ahold of). I'll Take It is among my top ten novels of all time; it is both deeply kind to human foibles and funny as hell. I'm delighted he's writing novels again, although I'd probably read his grocery list if he published it.
***
4 April 2023
Seven years on, the plot was long forgotten. Along with everything else that wasn't in the first paragraph of the above.
Rudnick is adept at setting the scene and then, seemingly, stepping out of the way and letting the charcters take over. The contrast between the two cousins is perfect, for the way their responses to a situation reflect interior states. I love how he pokes fun at novels that have been popular with teen girls, without denigrating readers or what books give them. In his kindness, he understands and empathizes with teen girls (including the most heinous). He demonstrates so well that people will make bad choices and endure bad outcomes, but these aren't consequences inflected on them for being bad people.
Also, I really love that he doesn't tell us what Heller and Caitlin look like, only how other characters perceive them.
And finally, how is this not a film? It would be such a blast and there can never be too many films about teen girls having adventures.
Library copy
Caitlin is a very good girl, home-schooled, in a family singing group, well-behaved. Her cousin, Heller, is not a good girl; she's famous and out of control. The two teens used to be best friends, but thas been a while. Now they're an odd couple, and they are funny together.
I've been a fan of Rudnick since 1989, and there were a lot of novelless-years when I missed him like crazy despite Libby Gelman-Waxner's fabulous film reviews and some filmscripts (playscripts are hard to get ahold of). I'll Take It is among my top ten novels of all time; it is both deeply kind to human foibles and funny as hell. I'm delighted he's writing novels again, although I'd probably read his grocery list if he published it.
***
4 April 2023
Seven years on, the plot was long forgotten. Along with everything else that wasn't in the first paragraph of the above.
Rudnick is adept at setting the scene and then, seemingly, stepping out of the way and letting the charcters take over. The contrast between the two cousins is perfect, for the way their responses to a situation reflect interior states. I love how he pokes fun at novels that have been popular with teen girls, without denigrating readers or what books give them. In his kindness, he understands and empathizes with teen girls (including the most heinous). He demonstrates so well that people will make bad choices and endure bad outcomes, but these aren't consequences inflected on them for being bad people.
Also, I really love that he doesn't tell us what Heller and Caitlin look like, only how other characters perceive them.
And finally, how is this not a film? It would be such a blast and there can never be too many films about teen girls having adventures.
Library copy
March 21, 2017
Funny at times but I didn't care for the way he portrayed christians and Christianity. Take out all that stereotyping and it would have been a much better read.
February 21, 2016
FIVE STARS!! I DON'T CARE, I LOVE IT.
January 27, 2021
3,5
Un libro over the top, strampalato, ma al contempo avvincente e appassionante, che riesce a ricreare un'atmosfera che ricorda le parti più assurde e strampalate dell'adolescenza, portandole all'estremo.
Un racconto irrealistico, ma estremamente divertente, che, ascoltato come audiolibro, è riuscito a prendermi completamente, nonostante la forte componente legata alla fede della protagonista, che avrebbe potuto rovinare l'intera lettura, se affrontata sotto un altra luce.
Ciò nonostante, mi limito a dare quest'opera solo 3,5 stelline, perché non riesco a valutarlo in maniera migliore, in quanto questo romanzo rappresenta solo intrattenimento allo stato puro.
Un libro over the top, strampalato, ma al contempo avvincente e appassionante, che riesce a ricreare un'atmosfera che ricorda le parti più assurde e strampalate dell'adolescenza, portandole all'estremo.
Un racconto irrealistico, ma estremamente divertente, che, ascoltato come audiolibro, è riuscito a prendermi completamente, nonostante la forte componente legata alla fede della protagonista, che avrebbe potuto rovinare l'intera lettura, se affrontata sotto un altra luce.
Ciò nonostante, mi limito a dare quest'opera solo 3,5 stelline, perché non riesco a valutarlo in maniera migliore, in quanto questo romanzo rappresenta solo intrattenimento allo stato puro.
August 6, 2020
Maybe it's unfair to rate and review a book that I haven't finished, but this was just so bad I couldn't help myself.
The characters were extremely bland and stereotypical. The main character is apparently a christian who is way too uptight compared to actual christian girls her age. Source, I'm a christian and I am nothing like her. In fact, this book offended me, and I tried to let it slide but I just couldn't. Also, the main character has anxiety, apparently severe, and yet she's fine pretty much the entire time.
You know what, I won't go on and on and on, since I didn't finish it. Just take my word and stay away from this book at all costs.
The characters were extremely bland and stereotypical. The main character is apparently a christian who is way too uptight compared to actual christian girls her age. Source, I'm a christian and I am nothing like her. In fact, this book offended me, and I tried to let it slide but I just couldn't. Also, the main character has anxiety, apparently severe, and yet she's fine pretty much the entire time.
You know what, I won't go on and on and on, since I didn't finish it. Just take my word and stay away from this book at all costs.
July 2, 2016
I reserve the right to voice my own, personal opinion, as negative as it may be. If you don't want to read a (probably nonsensical) rant about my utter dislike for this novel, then you really shouldn't read any farther. Thank you for your cooperation!
It's All Your Fault overwhelmed me, & I don't mean that it was just so good that my eyes watered with happy tears because I loved this book so much.
No.
Practically everything about this book made me want to rip my hair out. First, there was the incredibly random yet totally boring plot, in which we have our good-Christian-girl who ends up going bad (for approximately, like, 2 hours) because she took a BABY ADVIL. Which apparantly can cause people to experience memory loss, a complete personality transplant, & to talk like someone from the 1600s. Don't look at me, not my idea.
Here's what bothered me the most: it was just so...fake. Everything was so, so forced, especially the dialogue. I felt like all of the characters acted as if they were still in middle school. They had no chill whatsover. Does this sound like the dialogue of a grown man to you? "Oh my god, I'm almost finished with the last [book]! Don't tell me what happens! I'm on Team Myke! I can't wait to see the movie!!" etc. etc. At one point, there are SIX EXCLAMATION POINTS after a character's comment. That's a little unecessary if you ask me. Not to mention, I had to wonder whether Paul Rudnick's caps lock key was stuck because it felt like every single time Sophie spoke, she was yelling. Just...ugh. And don't even get me started on the Twitter comments. Here's a few samples for ya: "IF TALLWEN LOOKS AT ME IM GONNA SKREAM!!!" & "MIKE ROX!!!" If you are over the age of fourteen & you still spell rocks "rox," yes, I am judging you. (and since when was "skream" even a thing?)
Maybe I'm being a bit nitpickity here? But all I'm asking for is a teen fic with teens that actually act their age (or, if anything, slightly older).
Can we go back to talking about the fandom thing though, & how literally EVERYONE is OBSESSED with another over-cliched good vs. evil, angel/demon book series? I mean, Catey's against all sin & everything, but she's perfectly okay with Heller, like, bribing their way out of jail? Because the Judge, is, of course another one of those Angel Warrior fangirls (his grandkids are named Hermione, Bella, and Katniss. subtle much?). I don't understand it. It seemed like whenever they needed to get out of trouble, Heller would just use her starpower (see Sweetcakes factory, judge, etc.) because everyone just loves Lynnea. To me, this is just a lazy way for the author to resolve conflict.
Oh, and, Heller's "broke," right? So can anyone explain why she has the money to buy Sophie a 24k gold halo from Tiffany? That's at least $500, & because it's Tiffany, probably more. So, yeah, it's fair to say I'm very confused by this (admittedly minor) detail.
I'm just gonna bring this to an abrupt halt before I get even more worked up. All I can say is: if you're looking for a dull, fluffy YA book, that tries way too hard to be funny (there was maybe...one truly funny exchange? by my count) & doesn't make sense at times, then yes, this is the book for you.
I might add to this review later, since there's so much more I could say. Who knows!!!!!!!!
It's All Your Fault overwhelmed me, & I don't mean that it was just so good that my eyes watered with happy tears because I loved this book so much.
No.
Practically everything about this book made me want to rip my hair out. First, there was the incredibly random yet totally boring plot, in which we have our good-Christian-girl who ends up going bad (for approximately, like, 2 hours) because she took a BABY ADVIL. Which apparantly can cause people to experience memory loss, a complete personality transplant, & to talk like someone from the 1600s. Don't look at me, not my idea.
Here's what bothered me the most: it was just so...fake. Everything was so, so forced, especially the dialogue. I felt like all of the characters acted as if they were still in middle school. They had no chill whatsover. Does this sound like the dialogue of a grown man to you? "Oh my god, I'm almost finished with the last [book]! Don't tell me what happens! I'm on Team Myke! I can't wait to see the movie!!" etc. etc. At one point, there are SIX EXCLAMATION POINTS after a character's comment. That's a little unecessary if you ask me. Not to mention, I had to wonder whether Paul Rudnick's caps lock key was stuck because it felt like every single time Sophie spoke, she was yelling. Just...ugh. And don't even get me started on the Twitter comments. Here's a few samples for ya: "IF TALLWEN LOOKS AT ME IM GONNA SKREAM!!!" & "MIKE ROX!!!" If you are over the age of fourteen & you still spell rocks "rox," yes, I am judging you. (and since when was "skream" even a thing?)
Maybe I'm being a bit nitpickity here? But all I'm asking for is a teen fic with teens that actually act their age (or, if anything, slightly older).
Can we go back to talking about the fandom thing though, & how literally EVERYONE is OBSESSED with another over-cliched good vs. evil, angel/demon book series? I mean, Catey's against all sin & everything, but she's perfectly okay with Heller, like, bribing their way out of jail? Because the Judge, is, of course another one of those Angel Warrior fangirls (his grandkids are named Hermione, Bella, and Katniss. subtle much?). I don't understand it. It seemed like whenever they needed to get out of trouble, Heller would just use her starpower (see Sweetcakes factory, judge, etc.) because everyone just loves Lynnea. To me, this is just a lazy way for the author to resolve conflict.
Oh, and, Heller's "broke," right? So can anyone explain why she has the money to buy Sophie a 24k gold halo from Tiffany? That's at least $500, & because it's Tiffany, probably more. So, yeah, it's fair to say I'm very confused by this (admittedly minor) detail.
I'm just gonna bring this to an abrupt halt before I get even more worked up. All I can say is: if you're looking for a dull, fluffy YA book, that tries way too hard to be funny (there was maybe...one truly funny exchange? by my count) & doesn't make sense at times, then yes, this is the book for you.
I might add to this review later, since there's so much more I could say. Who knows!!!!!!!!
January 25, 2016
Caitlin has never done anything sinful ever in her entire life because she is a good little Christian girl who wears knee socks, never complains, and is someone everyone can rely on. However, when she is called upon to babysit her famous cousin, whom she hasn’t spoken to in four years, Catey feels like this is the Lord calling her to do the impossible: save Heller’s soul. Up until that fateful weekend, however, Catey had never: tasted alcohol, kissed a boy, kidnapped anyone, stolen a convertible, held a gun and- WAIT, IS THAT A TATTOO???? She blames ones person for this weekend and all of the terrible, unforgivable, and sinful things she has done. IT’S ALL YOU’RE FAULT, ONCE AGAIN, HELLER HARRIGAN!! Paul Rudnick has surprised me in all the ways I did not know possible, and I look forward to picking up his book Gorgeous to see if it is nearly as good as It’s All Your Fault. The characters are fresh and exciting which made me devour that book as I tried to read more of Catey and her hilarious commentary, and Heller and her seemingly thick shell and unpredictable behavior.
*Reviewed for San Francisco Book Review
*Reviewed for San Francisco Book Review
February 24, 2016
Review by Tina
I flagged this book during a booktube viewing. It may have been discussed as a funny book so I was curious.
The story and style catches me unawares. The writing is teenage exaggerated. One cousin is forward thinking in a former disney kid kind of way and another is a backward sheltered everything-is-taboo kind of kid. The story spins quickly from one disaster to another.
I am less than enthused. I don't find it funny or attention grabbing. Frankly, I can't imagine 10 year olds reading this book for fun either.
I flagged this book during a booktube viewing. It may have been discussed as a funny book so I was curious.
The story and style catches me unawares. The writing is teenage exaggerated. One cousin is forward thinking in a former disney kid kind of way and another is a backward sheltered everything-is-taboo kind of kid. The story spins quickly from one disaster to another.
I am less than enthused. I don't find it funny or attention grabbing. Frankly, I can't imagine 10 year olds reading this book for fun either.
July 21, 2016
This is a book you can't take seriously. Absolutely, at all. But if you decide to read it the way you would watch an SNL skit, it works and it's funny. There were some parts that were a little too over the top or annoying for me, and there seemed to be times when this book was trying to relay a serious message. But at that point I wasn't taking any of it seriously. I got some good laughs out of this and thats enough for me.
Good summer read or if you're in the mood for something completely mindless and have a good sense of humor.
Good summer read or if you're in the mood for something completely mindless and have a good sense of humor.
March 10, 2016
This book was absolutely horrid, in my opinion. It was overly cheesy, unoriginal, and was a mess. I wanted to DNF this book so many times, but I pushed myself to finish it since I try to always complete what I start. I hate saying this, but this may honestly be the most disappointing book I'll have read this year.
March 18, 2016
Actual rating: 2.5/5 stars
Review to come
Review to come
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