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Soulmates #1
Soulmates
Librarian note: alternate cover edition of Kindle edition B00V400W26.
Madison met Jake Keller when she was six years old. They thought nothing could separate them. Everything changes when they enter high school. One fight gets out of control and they go from inseparable friends to bitter enemies.
When tragedy strikes they are drawn to each other again. There is no doubt that they have an insane attraction to each other but, can they fix what has been broken?
Follow Madison and Jake as they navigate through the pain, sexual tension, pressure, tears, and heartbreak of adolescence and young adulthood.
*New adult romance recommended for 18 and older for mature content.
Madison met Jake Keller when she was six years old. They thought nothing could separate them. Everything changes when they enter high school. One fight gets out of control and they go from inseparable friends to bitter enemies.
When tragedy strikes they are drawn to each other again. There is no doubt that they have an insane attraction to each other but, can they fix what has been broken?
Follow Madison and Jake as they navigate through the pain, sexual tension, pressure, tears, and heartbreak of adolescence and young adulthood.
*New adult romance recommended for 18 and older for mature content.
123 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 22, 2015
8 people are currently reading
582 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,536 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
March 26, 2015
Downloaded for free from Amazon.co.uk
This was a bit of a shocking story for me.
Madison was a girl who at the start of the story had a very strong opinion about not losing her virginity recklessly. She wanted to be in a relationship, with someone that she really loved, and she wasn’t going to give it up any sooner than she was ready – which seems sensible enough to me. However, half-way through the book she then did a complete turnaround, had sex with a boy she wasn’t in a relationship with, and then had sex with an ex. I mean what? How on earth did she go from wanting to save her virginity, to having casual sex on a regular basis? I’m confused.
Then there was Jake, who having been Madison’s friend since they were six, had an argument with her (because she didn’t like that he was sleeping around), and called her a ‘tease’ and then they were basically enemies. Once again, this seemed like a massive turnaround from being best friends, to hating each other within the space of a few minutes. I didn’t like this, and I really thought that once they got over being mad, they’d be friends again, but no, they seemed to really hold a grudge.
Anyway, the storyline in this book shocked me to be honest. I must have either been really naïve when I was a teenager at school, or I went to a different type of school to these guys, because I couldn’t believe all the sex going on! It was actually difficult to keep track of who had had sex with who, because they were literally all hoping in and out of each other’s pants! At the age of 16! When I was 16 I only had 1 friend who had lost her virginity, and she wasn’t going around bed hopping! I mean, do 16-year-olds really do that?
There was also a heck of a lot of cheating going on in this book too, and I did feel sorry for Madison at points, although she made up for it a bit later in the book. When did she become so clueless? Had all the sex gone to her head?
The ending to this was okay, although I expected it really. This book really did shock me though, I’m not sure I’d want my child to read it when he’s older.
6 out of 10
Oh, and another thing that puzzled me
This was a bit of a shocking story for me.
Madison was a girl who at the start of the story had a very strong opinion about not losing her virginity recklessly. She wanted to be in a relationship, with someone that she really loved, and she wasn’t going to give it up any sooner than she was ready – which seems sensible enough to me. However, half-way through the book she then did a complete turnaround, had sex with a boy she wasn’t in a relationship with, and then had sex with an ex. I mean what? How on earth did she go from wanting to save her virginity, to having casual sex on a regular basis? I’m confused.
Then there was Jake, who having been Madison’s friend since they were six, had an argument with her (because she didn’t like that he was sleeping around), and called her a ‘tease’ and then they were basically enemies. Once again, this seemed like a massive turnaround from being best friends, to hating each other within the space of a few minutes. I didn’t like this, and I really thought that once they got over being mad, they’d be friends again, but no, they seemed to really hold a grudge.
Anyway, the storyline in this book shocked me to be honest. I must have either been really naïve when I was a teenager at school, or I went to a different type of school to these guys, because I couldn’t believe all the sex going on! It was actually difficult to keep track of who had had sex with who, because they were literally all hoping in and out of each other’s pants! At the age of 16! When I was 16 I only had 1 friend who had lost her virginity, and she wasn’t going around bed hopping! I mean, do 16-year-olds really do that?
There was also a heck of a lot of cheating going on in this book too, and I did feel sorry for Madison at points, although she made up for it a bit later in the book. When did she become so clueless? Had all the sex gone to her head?
The ending to this was okay, although I expected it really. This book really did shock me though, I’m not sure I’d want my child to read it when he’s older.
6 out of 10
Oh, and another thing that puzzled me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2015
soulmate
ˈsəʊlmeɪt/
noun
plural noun: soulmates
a person ideally suited to another as a close friend or romantic partner.
This is what google says it means. However, to each individual, the meaning is different. For me, I don't know if I truly believe in the word soulmate, because it sounds so spiritual and ethereal. What I do believe, is that their is someone special in the world suited for everyone. We don't always find that person, but for those who do, it's spectacular. A soulmate is supposed to be someone that builds you up and makes you want to be a better person. Someone that can put a smile on your face through remembering silly things they did. Get you so mad, you don't know where is up or down. A person that will love you in bad times, even though they hate you a little or even a lot. Someone who essentially believes in you. A friend, a love, maybe even both.
Without a doubt I will say the book emcompasses this meaning to me. From Madison's POV, this is a coming of age novella, showcasing how Jake and Madison traverse adolescence and becoming young adults. Humans evolve on a continuous basis and each relationship is dynamic. As with Jake and Madison, we see how two inseparable friends, soon become enemies, to consoling lovers, to distant memories, and ultimately the air the other needs to breathe.
Soulmates is centred around a group of friends, but mainly focuses on Madison and Jake. Jake and Madison have been best friends from the age of six and inseparable. Until they have a huge disagreement that turns into years of bitter enemies all through highschool. Madison is a naive young girl, with strong principles and even stronger morals. Never one to succumb to peer pressure or the stereotypical teenager image. She has a group of friends that have all lost their virginity. Becoming manwhores, and her girlfriends are more than promiscuous. Choosing to wait for the right moment, with the right person, Madison holds on to her virginity.
As the story progresses, Madison has a couple of boyfriends, all of who she chooses not to be fully intimate with. She loves them but isn't sure about going all the way. Life, poor choices and immaturity, sees her ending these relationships. Learning and growing with her experiences.
A fatal accident occurs, and both her and Jake, 'do the nasty.' Now I know this was inevitable, and with all the bitterness and verbal sparring between them, I was rooting for them to get together. I actually love how it occurred. The scene played out well. Consolation and relief for a short period of time, through grief.
Now this is where I had some concerns. Jake and Madison start up a hidden relationship of casual intercourse. Never being one for casual sex, and bitching to her others friends about it, this was a total 360 for Madison and for me. Then to top it all off, she goes and has casual sex with an ex-boyfriend, under the pretense of Jake and her relationship, not being defined. They're just friends with benefits. Yet, all she can think about it Jake. All the time.
Madison's character was powerful and so lacking in society these days. But when she took a turn for the worse half way through the book. I was more than sorely disappointed. She came off as fickle, and judgemental. Through all of this, all her friends were more or less having sex with each other. I was like WTF!! it was like a big orgy in my mind, trying to keep up with which friend was having sex with which other friend.
Heading into young adulthood and off to college, returning home during breaks, her and Jake keep up a casual sexual relationship, until she obtains another boyfriend. This time, I felt as if Madison was completely lost to herself. She just up and disappeared. Eventually, life and her relationship took over, and she finds herself getting engaged. But, something never felt right about this change in status to her. Then one night with Jake, has her reevaluating her life choices, and she ends the engagement. Leading her towards Jake's open arms.
One thing I learned in my twenty two years is that love is painful. Sometimes it takes making a lot of mistakes and being with the wrong person to lead you to the perfect one.
Why three stars, because I loved the intended plot of the story. The characters were well developed- Jake, he stayed true to himself throughout the book, and he realized that Madison had to make her own mistakes, and gain experiences before she could make the right decision. Also, even though Madison lost herself halfway through, I still felt that, this is what needed to happened, even though I didn't agree with how it playout. It felt too much like succumbing to what should and went along with everything without much thought. As if she didn't want to be alone.
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review* Thanks! and I'm looking forward to reading Jake's POV.
ˈsəʊlmeɪt/
noun
plural noun: soulmates
a person ideally suited to another as a close friend or romantic partner.
This is what google says it means. However, to each individual, the meaning is different. For me, I don't know if I truly believe in the word soulmate, because it sounds so spiritual and ethereal. What I do believe, is that their is someone special in the world suited for everyone. We don't always find that person, but for those who do, it's spectacular. A soulmate is supposed to be someone that builds you up and makes you want to be a better person. Someone that can put a smile on your face through remembering silly things they did. Get you so mad, you don't know where is up or down. A person that will love you in bad times, even though they hate you a little or even a lot. Someone who essentially believes in you. A friend, a love, maybe even both.
Without a doubt I will say the book emcompasses this meaning to me. From Madison's POV, this is a coming of age novella, showcasing how Jake and Madison traverse adolescence and becoming young adults. Humans evolve on a continuous basis and each relationship is dynamic. As with Jake and Madison, we see how two inseparable friends, soon become enemies, to consoling lovers, to distant memories, and ultimately the air the other needs to breathe.
Soulmates is centred around a group of friends, but mainly focuses on Madison and Jake. Jake and Madison have been best friends from the age of six and inseparable. Until they have a huge disagreement that turns into years of bitter enemies all through highschool. Madison is a naive young girl, with strong principles and even stronger morals. Never one to succumb to peer pressure or the stereotypical teenager image. She has a group of friends that have all lost their virginity. Becoming manwhores, and her girlfriends are more than promiscuous. Choosing to wait for the right moment, with the right person, Madison holds on to her virginity.
As the story progresses, Madison has a couple of boyfriends, all of who she chooses not to be fully intimate with. She loves them but isn't sure about going all the way. Life, poor choices and immaturity, sees her ending these relationships. Learning and growing with her experiences.
A fatal accident occurs, and both her and Jake, 'do the nasty.' Now I know this was inevitable, and with all the bitterness and verbal sparring between them, I was rooting for them to get together. I actually love how it occurred. The scene played out well. Consolation and relief for a short period of time, through grief.
Now this is where I had some concerns. Jake and Madison start up a hidden relationship of casual intercourse. Never being one for casual sex, and bitching to her others friends about it, this was a total 360 for Madison and for me. Then to top it all off, she goes and has casual sex with an ex-boyfriend, under the pretense of Jake and her relationship, not being defined. They're just friends with benefits. Yet, all she can think about it Jake. All the time.
Madison's character was powerful and so lacking in society these days. But when she took a turn for the worse half way through the book. I was more than sorely disappointed. She came off as fickle, and judgemental. Through all of this, all her friends were more or less having sex with each other. I was like WTF!! it was like a big orgy in my mind, trying to keep up with which friend was having sex with which other friend.
Heading into young adulthood and off to college, returning home during breaks, her and Jake keep up a casual sexual relationship, until she obtains another boyfriend. This time, I felt as if Madison was completely lost to herself. She just up and disappeared. Eventually, life and her relationship took over, and she finds herself getting engaged. But, something never felt right about this change in status to her. Then one night with Jake, has her reevaluating her life choices, and she ends the engagement. Leading her towards Jake's open arms.
One thing I learned in my twenty two years is that love is painful. Sometimes it takes making a lot of mistakes and being with the wrong person to lead you to the perfect one.
Why three stars, because I loved the intended plot of the story. The characters were well developed- Jake, he stayed true to himself throughout the book, and he realized that Madison had to make her own mistakes, and gain experiences before she could make the right decision. Also, even though Madison lost herself halfway through, I still felt that, this is what needed to happened, even though I didn't agree with how it playout. It felt too much like succumbing to what should and went along with everything without much thought. As if she didn't want to be alone.
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review* Thanks! and I'm looking forward to reading Jake's POV.
Want to read
October 8, 2015
FREE on Amazon US today (10/8/2015)
Book 1 and 2 has same H/he but book 2 can be read as stand-alone. Book 3 has a different couple.
BLURB:
Madison met Jake Keller when she was six years old. They thought nothing could separate them. Everything changes when they enter high school. One fight gets out of control and they go from inseparable friends to bitter enemies.
When tragedy strikes they are drawn to each other again. There is no doubt that they have an insane attraction to each other but, can they fix what has been broken?
Follow Madison and Jake as they navigate through the pain, sexual tension, pressure, tears, and heartbreak of adolescence and young adulthood.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00V...
FREEBIES are often good for MORE than one day, I have gathered all my FREEBIES on a special shelf: Kindle-freebies (currently over 490 books)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...
September 15, 2015
I wouldn't call this necessarily a novel...it's more like a diary with dialogue in it...
It wasn't bad but it wasn't great either. It was a fast read that approaches the mistakes teenagers do and regret (or not!) later.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
It wasn't bad but it wasn't great either. It was a fast read that approaches the mistakes teenagers do and regret (or not!) later.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
April 12, 2015
It's always a delight to read a book by someone I have met on GR! It makes me feel honored that they would trust me to read and review their work. As I have been graciously offered an arc for Fate the second of the Soulmates series, I felt it was imperative to read the first book in the series. I am truly glad that I did!
Soulmates is definitely a "coming of age" story. Although the majority of the story takes place while the characters are in high school, this is NOT a YA book. I would definitely categorize it as a NA book.
Madison is just a young girl when she meets Jake. The two become fast friends and of course share their first kiss.
Madison and Jake have a close group of friends and they go through first kisses, first dates, drunken parties, and all of the firsts that kids experience.
While Madison and Jake remain close, it is only friendship between them. When the "brat pack" begin to sleep around, Maddy remains a virgin in order to save herself for when the time is right.
When Jake makes a stupid mistake, Maddy confronts him and they get in a huge fight. What should have blown over in a few days turns into years of battling. Jake was so cruel to Maddy. Maddy copes with the bullying the best she can. She even dates another friend from the pack which causes Jake to ridicule her even more. Of course Maddy is unwilling to give up her virginity and eventually the relationship fizzles out.
When trauma hits Jake hard, Maddy is there to comfort him. They are instantly brought together. Maddy has no trouble giving herself to Jake.
There is quite a few back and forth between the two. It takes a while for the two to final come to terms with what it takes for them to be together.
Overall, I enjoyed this read. I felt like the time shift was rather abrupt because there were several years covered in just a few chapters. I would have loved to have more character development for the main characters. Although I connected with them individually, I didn't quite understand the way they came back together so quickly. Also, I struggled when they got back together but then it took more time for them to work things out. Although I found it very believable for high schoolers to be so sexually active (I work everyday with teenagers), I did wonder where were the parents? I also am dying to understand more about Jake's past with his parents divorce and . Perhaps the next book will answer more. Finally, after everything these two have been through I would have loved a longer HEA!
I normally don't read books where the main plot line is based on just love, sex, and friends. There was an awful lot of drama jam packed into such short read. However, I am very glad that I read this book and I look forward to reading the next in the series. Thank you Nicole for sharing your work with me!
Soulmates is definitely a "coming of age" story. Although the majority of the story takes place while the characters are in high school, this is NOT a YA book. I would definitely categorize it as a NA book.
Madison is just a young girl when she meets Jake. The two become fast friends and of course share their first kiss.
Madison and Jake have a close group of friends and they go through first kisses, first dates, drunken parties, and all of the firsts that kids experience.
While Madison and Jake remain close, it is only friendship between them. When the "brat pack" begin to sleep around, Maddy remains a virgin in order to save herself for when the time is right.
When Jake makes a stupid mistake, Maddy confronts him and they get in a huge fight. What should have blown over in a few days turns into years of battling. Jake was so cruel to Maddy. Maddy copes with the bullying the best she can. She even dates another friend from the pack which causes Jake to ridicule her even more. Of course Maddy is unwilling to give up her virginity and eventually the relationship fizzles out.
When trauma hits Jake hard, Maddy is there to comfort him. They are instantly brought together. Maddy has no trouble giving herself to Jake.
There is quite a few back and forth between the two. It takes a while for the two to final come to terms with what it takes for them to be together.
Overall, I enjoyed this read. I felt like the time shift was rather abrupt because there were several years covered in just a few chapters. I would have loved to have more character development for the main characters. Although I connected with them individually, I didn't quite understand the way they came back together so quickly. Also, I struggled when they got back together but then it took more time for them to work things out. Although I found it very believable for high schoolers to be so sexually active (I work everyday with teenagers), I did wonder where were the parents? I also am dying to understand more about Jake's past with his parents divorce and . Perhaps the next book will answer more. Finally, after everything these two have been through I would have loved a longer HEA!
I normally don't read books where the main plot line is based on just love, sex, and friends. There was an awful lot of drama jam packed into such short read. However, I am very glad that I read this book and I look forward to reading the next in the series. Thank you Nicole for sharing your work with me!
September 9, 2015
I'm a little bias, but I hope that you will give this book a chance. This is the first book in the series about a group of friends trying to get through adolescence and new adulthood.
This book is Maddy's. She is the sweetheart of the group. The naïve girl that struggles with watching her friends making mistakes with everything that comes with being a teenager in a fast paced world.
This book is Maddy's. She is the sweetheart of the group. The naïve girl that struggles with watching her friends making mistakes with everything that comes with being a teenager in a fast paced world.
January 2, 2021
Wow.....
I dunno what I was expecting, but that sure wasn't it. This book was awesome. It kinda reminded me of B.B Reids Broken Love series (check it out if you haven't already ;) ). The characters jelled so well together and the plot and storyline was unique and had so many twists I was always kept on the edge of my seat. The author managed to create a unique and perfect blend of love, hate, romance and sacrifice in this beautiful story.
For any authors first novel (which this was for Nicole Dykes) it was.....
Now onto book two which is in Jakes POV! Can't wait to see what was going on his head.... ;)
*Digital copy received in exchange for an honest review*
I dunno what I was expecting, but that sure wasn't it. This book was awesome. It kinda reminded me of B.B Reids Broken Love series (check it out if you haven't already ;) ). The characters jelled so well together and the plot and storyline was unique and had so many twists I was always kept on the edge of my seat. The author managed to create a unique and perfect blend of love, hate, romance and sacrifice in this beautiful story.
For any authors first novel (which this was for Nicole Dykes) it was.....
Now onto book two which is in Jakes POV! Can't wait to see what was going on his head.... ;)
*Digital copy received in exchange for an honest review*
June 13, 2015
☆☆☆ 3.5 We Were Meant To Be Stars ☆☆☆
Jake Keller has been in my life since we were six years old.
AND
This is a story of friendship and fun. Jake and Maddy are best friends. They have been a part of each other's lives since forever. Until one day Madison over steps her friend boundary with Jake and rips him for sleeping around and using his friends just for sex.
Jake being tired of Maddy's goodie goodie image he tells her off calling her an ice princess and a prude......which she mostly definitely is and I am sure her parents greatly appreciated that!!
Their friendship pretty much turns to hate from that point. Jake teasing Maddy any chance he could get.
Their lives are forever entangled thru their mutual friend drama and high school life filled with teenage angsty drama.
Then one night, after a party, Jake's brother is killed in a car accident. This tragedy brings Jake and Maddy back together. Leaning on each other thru their grief, realizing they both want each other, but never speak those words to each other.
As their lives move on in different directions at a very fast pace, they only see each other a couple times briefly.
After breaking off her engagement to another man, two weeks before their wedding, Maddy moves closer to home as does Jake and they pretty much live happily ever after.
Don't get me wrong, cute story, but just way too fast paced for me with very little drama besides your normal high school drama, he said she said, make out sessions.
My mind needs crazy, dark, gritty, what the hell kind of page turners.
I need BAD BAD things to happen in books.
Jake Keller has been in my life since we were six years old.
AND
This is a story of friendship and fun. Jake and Maddy are best friends. They have been a part of each other's lives since forever. Until one day Madison over steps her friend boundary with Jake and rips him for sleeping around and using his friends just for sex.
Jake being tired of Maddy's goodie goodie image he tells her off calling her an ice princess and a prude......which she mostly definitely is and I am sure her parents greatly appreciated that!!
Their friendship pretty much turns to hate from that point. Jake teasing Maddy any chance he could get.
Their lives are forever entangled thru their mutual friend drama and high school life filled with teenage angsty drama.
Then one night, after a party, Jake's brother is killed in a car accident. This tragedy brings Jake and Maddy back together. Leaning on each other thru their grief, realizing they both want each other, but never speak those words to each other.
As their lives move on in different directions at a very fast pace, they only see each other a couple times briefly.
After breaking off her engagement to another man, two weeks before their wedding, Maddy moves closer to home as does Jake and they pretty much live happily ever after.
Don't get me wrong, cute story, but just way too fast paced for me with very little drama besides your normal high school drama, he said she said, make out sessions.
My mind needs crazy, dark, gritty, what the hell kind of page turners.
I need BAD BAD things to happen in books.
July 27, 2015
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
For me, there something that didn't let me fully connect with the story. I'm not actually sure what it was that made me feel this way about the book though. I thought there was maybe too much focus on the loss of Maddy's virginity. One thing I did like though was that, being a fairly short book, the story was fast paced.
For me, there something that didn't let me fully connect with the story. I'm not actually sure what it was that made me feel this way about the book though. I thought there was maybe too much focus on the loss of Maddy's virginity. One thing I did like though was that, being a fairly short book, the story was fast paced.
June 10, 2015
Beautiful coming of age read
Arc kindly gifted for honest review
The author has written this book from Maddy's point of view its like reading her memoirs, very descriptive and it draws you in and is beautifully done.
Madeline & Jake are childhood best friends this is Maddy's journey from childhood and through her school years with Jake and her other friends, its sweet and you can picture these childhood friends in their everyday lives of school and play.
Teenage years are thrust upon them and with it comes changes, Jake changed like any boy at his age and starts to experiment with girls then comes the peer pressure of sex.
A turn of events turn this beautiful friendship with Jake and Maddy into one of hate and if you have read bully you will like this.
The journey continues with Maddy into her college years her releationships glimpses of Jake and her missed friendship which leads you to the final peak of a HEA.
Its a good coming of age read which flows beautifully has you gripped, it's sweet with a bit of angst consisting all the dramas of one teenage girl and her highs and lows.
Arc kindly gifted for honest review
The author has written this book from Maddy's point of view its like reading her memoirs, very descriptive and it draws you in and is beautifully done.
Madeline & Jake are childhood best friends this is Maddy's journey from childhood and through her school years with Jake and her other friends, its sweet and you can picture these childhood friends in their everyday lives of school and play.
Teenage years are thrust upon them and with it comes changes, Jake changed like any boy at his age and starts to experiment with girls then comes the peer pressure of sex.
A turn of events turn this beautiful friendship with Jake and Maddy into one of hate and if you have read bully you will like this.
The journey continues with Maddy into her college years her releationships glimpses of Jake and her missed friendship which leads you to the final peak of a HEA.
Its a good coming of age read which flows beautifully has you gripped, it's sweet with a bit of angst consisting all the dramas of one teenage girl and her highs and lows.
February 27, 2020
One word - awful.
The hero, Jake, has sex with the heroine's BFFs. Please note, it is plural. Not one BFF, but multiple. One of these BFFs even loses her virginity to Jake. That BFF was in "love" with Jake. UGH. The heroine was not the brightest.
Jake and Madison have been friends since they were six. This is supposed to be a friends to more type of story. Instead it felt like a big orgy among friends. Jake never even gives the hint of being attracted to Maddie until much later, but I think he just wanted to have sex at that point. Whenever, Madison expressed to Jake that he it was disgusting for making out or having sex with her friends, he told her that she was a prude. I never left the chemistry. Madison has a switch in personality later in the story. The premise was great, but the execution and behaviors of the characters was awkward. The writing had no depth. Everything is told to the reader.
You may love it. This is my opinion.
The hero, Jake, has sex with the heroine's BFFs. Please note, it is plural. Not one BFF, but multiple. One of these BFFs even loses her virginity to Jake. That BFF was in "love" with Jake. UGH. The heroine was not the brightest.
Jake and Madison have been friends since they were six. This is supposed to be a friends to more type of story. Instead it felt like a big orgy among friends. Jake never even gives the hint of being attracted to Maddie until much later, but I think he just wanted to have sex at that point. Whenever, Madison expressed to Jake that he it was disgusting for making out or having sex with her friends, he told her that she was a prude. I never left the chemistry. Madison has a switch in personality later in the story. The premise was great, but the execution and behaviors of the characters was awkward. The writing had no depth. Everything is told to the reader.
You may love it. This is my opinion.
July 6, 2015
SOULMATES
Soulmate Series - Book One
Author: Nicole Dykes
Type of Book: eBook
Genre: Romance, Young Adult
Length: 122 pages
Release Date: March 22, 2015
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jake and Madison met when they were both six years old. Their fathers worked together in the oil fields and they lived only three houses away from each other.
The two quickly became best friends and were inseparable. That is, until their Freshman year of high school when they had a huge fight.
That fight ended their friendship completely and they actually began to hate each other.
Maddy is a good girl and remains a virgin for many years. Maddy is waiting for "the one" before losing her virginity. Jake is the exact opposite. He has sex with lots of different girls and has no interest in actually dating any of his bed partners.
Jake calls Maddy a "prude."
Maddy calls Jake an "asshole."
Then in their Senior year of high school tragedy strikes and Jake and Maddy are drawn to each other again. But, can they get over the pain they've caused each other over the past few years?
This book can almost be considered a novella since it only consists of 122 pages.
* NOTE*
This book contains scenes that are sexual in nature and that are not suitable for readers under the age of eighteen.
I enjoyed reading this book. It is a sweet story about two people who were always meant to be together, but who; through various events and misunderstandings always seem to be at odds with each other.
Readers should have no problem relating to the characters. Everyone knows someone who is just like Maddy, and everyone knows a person who behaves the way that Jake does.
This book can teach new adults the value of communication. If Maddy and Jake had sat down together and let each other know how they felt, they could have saved themselves lots of heartache.
This book is perfect for those who are past their teenage years, but have not yet settled into a comfortable adult life. I love that there is now a "New Adult" book category.
I rate this book as 4 out of 5 stars in the New Adult category. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
* I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
To read more of my reviews visit http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Soulmate Series - Book One
Author: Nicole Dykes
Type of Book: eBook
Genre: Romance, Young Adult
Length: 122 pages
Release Date: March 22, 2015
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jake and Madison met when they were both six years old. Their fathers worked together in the oil fields and they lived only three houses away from each other.
The two quickly became best friends and were inseparable. That is, until their Freshman year of high school when they had a huge fight.
That fight ended their friendship completely and they actually began to hate each other.
Maddy is a good girl and remains a virgin for many years. Maddy is waiting for "the one" before losing her virginity. Jake is the exact opposite. He has sex with lots of different girls and has no interest in actually dating any of his bed partners.
Jake calls Maddy a "prude."
Maddy calls Jake an "asshole."
Then in their Senior year of high school tragedy strikes and Jake and Maddy are drawn to each other again. But, can they get over the pain they've caused each other over the past few years?
This book can almost be considered a novella since it only consists of 122 pages.
* NOTE*
This book contains scenes that are sexual in nature and that are not suitable for readers under the age of eighteen.
I enjoyed reading this book. It is a sweet story about two people who were always meant to be together, but who; through various events and misunderstandings always seem to be at odds with each other.
Readers should have no problem relating to the characters. Everyone knows someone who is just like Maddy, and everyone knows a person who behaves the way that Jake does.
This book can teach new adults the value of communication. If Maddy and Jake had sat down together and let each other know how they felt, they could have saved themselves lots of heartache.
This book is perfect for those who are past their teenage years, but have not yet settled into a comfortable adult life. I love that there is now a "New Adult" book category.
I rate this book as 4 out of 5 stars in the New Adult category. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
* I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
To read more of my reviews visit http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
July 16, 2015
*ARC received from author, in exchange for an honest review*
Their love story was messy, but cute. I felt bad for Maddy, getting cheated on and then finding a good guy, but having him move away, and most of all, losing her friendship with Jake. And Jake, ughh, he became a real slut and I hated him for most of the book. He acted like such a jerk. I don't know if his confession of love towards the end made up for his actions throughout the story, but I was happy they ended up together. There's some sex, although not overly graphic, but a pleasant surprise.
Their love story was messy, but cute. I felt bad for Maddy, getting cheated on and then finding a good guy, but having him move away, and most of all, losing her friendship with Jake. And Jake, ughh, he became a real slut and I hated him for most of the book. He acted like such a jerk. I don't know if his confession of love towards the end made up for his actions throughout the story, but I was happy they ended up together. There's some sex, although not overly graphic, but a pleasant surprise.
March 25, 2015
I loved this book! It was a quick read and I cant wait to continue with the series! My emotions were all over the place with Jake. One chapter I loved him and the next he was such a jerk that I hated him. It was great watching Maddy and Jake grow and fight and the banter between the two of them brought back so many high school memories for me. The subjects Nicole writes about are things we have all had to deal with growing up. I cant believe this is a debut novel and I'm looking forward to reading more by Nicole. The characters were so real for me and totally relatable. Once I started reading I knew I was going to read it in one sitting. I was totally invested in all of their lives and felt as if I was sitting right there at the lunch table with them discussing who was doing what with whom!!
September 3, 2015
*A complimentary copy of this ebook was given to me by the author in exchange for my honest review.*
This was a short story of two Soulmates with their beginning, middle, & end. They've known each other since they were six years old. As they got older things became...awkward. They were just in that stage where you like that person, you just don't know how to go about telling that person. It was different for them each. Maddy was jealous and didn't know why. Jake was an ass and used every chance he got to throw cheap shots at Maddy & cause her hurt. It isn't until a death brings them together and while it's not official, it kind of was. By the end, all I'm doing is rooting for Jake & Maddy to be together. What I liked most was that there wasn't too much, and by that I mean it wasn't dragged out and things actually progressed in this story. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This was a short story of two Soulmates with their beginning, middle, & end. They've known each other since they were six years old. As they got older things became...awkward. They were just in that stage where you like that person, you just don't know how to go about telling that person. It was different for them each. Maddy was jealous and didn't know why. Jake was an ass and used every chance he got to throw cheap shots at Maddy & cause her hurt. It isn't until a death brings them together and while it's not official, it kind of was. By the end, all I'm doing is rooting for Jake & Maddy to be together. What I liked most was that there wasn't too much, and by that I mean it wasn't dragged out and things actually progressed in this story. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
May 22, 2015
I read Fate first which is the 2nd book in this series. (They are standalone and I was not confused at all by reading them out of order) I really enjoyed it and may have read it again someday but when I found out Soulmates is the same story in Maddy's POV, I decided not to wait. It was cool to read a book again but see different things. I loved Jake in Fate, but he was even better in Soulmates. You can't help but root for him to finally know he is loved--something he's never really had.
This story lets you watch as this group of kids grow up. It takes you from the time they are six up through their early twenties. As a person who thrives on watching people and wondering what motivates them to do what they do, both of these books were right up my alley. They are def worth the read.
This story lets you watch as this group of kids grow up. It takes you from the time they are six up through their early twenties. As a person who thrives on watching people and wondering what motivates them to do what they do, both of these books were right up my alley. They are def worth the read.
June 1, 2015
I received this book to give m True & Honest Review
I love this book to do with schoolmates & Best Mates Until things went out of control between Maddy & Jake. It'll remind Girls & Boys from School with their love, infatuation and becoming of age. They were BEST MATES from the age of 6 till Junior high when they started to learn about maturing. So Will thy be able to mend the ways & Become Best of Mates again. These 2 you can see through ALL the Highs, Lows and HEARTBREAK. With the Fall Out & Re-Uniting before it's time to go into the direction Of College/Work.
We Meet Mark when Maddy's at college & Jake heads to Alsaka
We see this View from Maddy's
I love this book to do with schoolmates & Best Mates Until things went out of control between Maddy & Jake. It'll remind Girls & Boys from School with their love, infatuation and becoming of age. They were BEST MATES from the age of 6 till Junior high when they started to learn about maturing. So Will thy be able to mend the ways & Become Best of Mates again. These 2 you can see through ALL the Highs, Lows and HEARTBREAK. With the Fall Out & Re-Uniting before it's time to go into the direction Of College/Work.
We Meet Mark when Maddy's at college & Jake heads to Alsaka
We see this View from Maddy's
Read
February 27, 2020What?! Wait! The name of this book is SOULMATES ?! Can I laugh now ??? 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
July 2, 2015
I added this book to my TBR shelf and the author offered to let me read it in exchange for a honest review
I liked this book... I liked the idea behind it... I liked the characters... I just didn't care that a lot was condensed into a 122 pages...
The book follows Madison from when she meets Jake when she was younger all the way until she graduates college..
Important parts felt grazed over... rushed... and left me wanting more detail.. more explanation... I liked the characters but wanted to know more about them... get a little more connected...
Growing up Madison is not a follower.. she makes her own decisions and doesn't allow herself to be pressured to do what everyone else is doing... she is a lil feisty.. and ok with not rushing to grow up... she does at times come across a little judgmental in regards to the decisions her friends make... and at times dramatic...
The story is from Madison's POV so you get to know Jake through her eyes... Jake seems to have had feelings for Madison since they were young... he is a typical boy... doing typical boy things.. but always has an eye on Madison... Madison keeps him in the friend zone.. but I know she has feelings for him too...
Throughout the book they go from being close to hating each other... and then one night something tragic happens and shes the only one who can reach him... this is the same night that they connect in a way they never have...
I enjoyed their love story... I will say again that I wanted more... more of a connection... more details... they were hot together... but I'm greedy and want more...
Overall I liked the book... besides the few issues I had... it was a decent read... I'm pretty sure I will not be moving froward with this series only because I don't like how rushed it all was...
I liked this book... I liked the idea behind it... I liked the characters... I just didn't care that a lot was condensed into a 122 pages...
The book follows Madison from when she meets Jake when she was younger all the way until she graduates college..
Important parts felt grazed over... rushed... and left me wanting more detail.. more explanation... I liked the characters but wanted to know more about them... get a little more connected...
Growing up Madison is not a follower.. she makes her own decisions and doesn't allow herself to be pressured to do what everyone else is doing... she is a lil feisty.. and ok with not rushing to grow up... she does at times come across a little judgmental in regards to the decisions her friends make... and at times dramatic...
The story is from Madison's POV so you get to know Jake through her eyes... Jake seems to have had feelings for Madison since they were young... he is a typical boy... doing typical boy things.. but always has an eye on Madison... Madison keeps him in the friend zone.. but I know she has feelings for him too...
Throughout the book they go from being close to hating each other... and then one night something tragic happens and shes the only one who can reach him... this is the same night that they connect in a way they never have...
I enjoyed their love story... I will say again that I wanted more... more of a connection... more details... they were hot together... but I'm greedy and want more...
Overall I liked the book... besides the few issues I had... it was a decent read... I'm pretty sure I will not be moving froward with this series only because I don't like how rushed it all was...
March 25, 2015
**May contain slight spoilers**
I liked the idea of this book and the general storyline. I'm always a fan of the "friends since childhood-to-lovers" plot. However I found with this book that there was too much of them NOT together. The description explains how they're friends but get in a fight and don't talk. There's just so much of the book thats Madison's life outside of Jake, even to the point of her with multiple other guys and I just didn't like that much. I understand maybe trying to get over someone or what not and dating another guy but it was just a bit too much. I wanted to see more of Jake and Maddy in a good place-not fighting all the time.
Also it was very fast paced-the first chunk of the book spans over multiple years and sometimes got a bit jumbled. Explaining all the friends relationships with each other and other people was a bit too much-I sometimes had to read the paragraph over to get all the names straight of the people dating who.
Overall was an OK book. I might be interested in seeing Jakes POV and maybe get more of Jake and Maddy but if it's just a retelling of this one I imagine it's probably a lot of Jake with other girls as well.
October 10, 2015
I freaking loved this book. once i started i couldnt put it down.
Maddy and Jake have known each other since they were 6 and have been inseparable. This book had my emotions going all over. One minute I loved them both, then the next i wanted to smack Jake and tell Maddy that yeah some of the things he said were a bit true. But then looking at their age i was like yeah Jake is being a jerk.
They go through middle school and high school drama together... care about each other one minute then have a fall out the next. Something happens and it brings them back together for a while then yet another thing happens and they go back to not speaking.
I loved how it was all told in Maddy's POV but would have loved to hear Jake's side of things in a few different parts but I guess that is book 2 that I'm ready to jump into and read to see how he explains himself.
Well done Nicole.. wonderful story cannot wait to read more. Thank you for the ARC I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
Maddy and Jake have known each other since they were 6 and have been inseparable. This book had my emotions going all over. One minute I loved them both, then the next i wanted to smack Jake and tell Maddy that yeah some of the things he said were a bit true. But then looking at their age i was like yeah Jake is being a jerk.
They go through middle school and high school drama together... care about each other one minute then have a fall out the next. Something happens and it brings them back together for a while then yet another thing happens and they go back to not speaking.
I loved how it was all told in Maddy's POV but would have loved to hear Jake's side of things in a few different parts but I guess that is book 2 that I'm ready to jump into and read to see how he explains himself.
Well done Nicole.. wonderful story cannot wait to read more. Thank you for the ARC I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
January 7, 2016
This was a sweet story. I had a soft spot for Jake even though he was horrible to Maddy at points.
Due to it being such a short read I felt alot of it was crammed in and lots of events were skip without going into too much detail. I would have like to experiance more with them and their friends. It just seemed a little too rushed for me.
I was a lovly read and kept me guessing throughout and I couldnt wait to see how it turned out and whether they got their HEA.
Thank you Nicole Dykes for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book :D
Due to it being such a short read I felt alot of it was crammed in and lots of events were skip without going into too much detail. I would have like to experiance more with them and their friends. It just seemed a little too rushed for me.
I was a lovly read and kept me guessing throughout and I couldnt wait to see how it turned out and whether they got their HEA.
Thank you Nicole Dykes for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book :D
April 25, 2015
This was a great nice and easy read. I read it all in one sitting. It sort of reminded me of The Duff in a way which happens to be one of my favorite books. I loved Jake and Maddy even if Jake was a total asshole at times. But what high school boy isn't? I'm so glad Maddy didn't marry Mark and the ending was just absolutely perfect. I can't wait to read the next one and see the story from Jake's point of view.
June 7, 2015
First off I want to thank Nicole for sending me this book to review.
This is a really quick read. I enjoyed it and completed it in a short period of time. There was so much packed into this book. Friends to enemies to friends and more. I wish at times that time didn't go so quickly from one chapter to the next. I felt like I was rushed through a short period of time.
Overall this book had sex and drama (ALOT of drama) and kept me quite entertained.
This is a really quick read. I enjoyed it and completed it in a short period of time. There was so much packed into this book. Friends to enemies to friends and more. I wish at times that time didn't go so quickly from one chapter to the next. I felt like I was rushed through a short period of time.
Overall this book had sex and drama (ALOT of drama) and kept me quite entertained.
October 15, 2015
Wow
This was a very good story. I was pissed off the whole time because I wanted Jake and Maddy to be together, but had that happened the story wouldn't have turned out so great!
Maddy was definitely a character that any girl/woman could relate to. She was strong and didn't fall into peer pressure, like most girls would in her position. Her virginity was important to her and she had no plans of losing it, until she found the right person. Absolutely, loved this story.
This was a very good story. I was pissed off the whole time because I wanted Jake and Maddy to be together, but had that happened the story wouldn't have turned out so great!
Maddy was definitely a character that any girl/woman could relate to. She was strong and didn't fall into peer pressure, like most girls would in her position. Her virginity was important to her and she had no plans of losing it, until she found the right person. Absolutely, loved this story.
April 24, 2015
wow that was a quick good read, it seemed a bit rushed but i liked it, i didn't like the whole engaged thing and how Maddy hurt the guy like that.. i liked the end though
June 27, 2015
3.5 Stars coming of age to mature adult content! review to come
My emotions are pulled everywhere on this!
My emotions are pulled everywhere on this!
December 30, 2015
ARC received from author
Think Sweet Valley High meets Beverly Hills 90210. Plenty of high school/college angsty teenager drama. A nice little love story buried under the way too young sex.
Think Sweet Valley High meets Beverly Hills 90210. Plenty of high school/college angsty teenager drama. A nice little love story buried under the way too young sex.
June 11, 2015
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review*
I'm a sucker for love stories between friends who have known each other since they were little and that's why this book caught my eye. I had to laugh, though, because throughout the beginning of the book I kept forgetting they were at such young ages. I kept thinking, What are doing???? Stop!!! So immature!!! but then I'd remember they're all like 13-16 years old and that's those glorious years full of stupid mistakes and drama. I thought it was cool that we got to see Jake and Maddy from when they were little until they were around 22, but the way it's explained was confusing. Most books will talk about the characters' present life and have flashbacks or explain memories from past times, whereas this book was jumping all over the place and there was a lot of things that weren't really crucial to the story. There was a lot of "that Christmas..." and "later that year..." and "for that thanksgiving..." and it confused me when it skipped a few months ahead or backtracked to past times. The characters didn't have much depth and they all seemed to screw around – they seemed like a bunch of backstabbers, except for Michelle... she was solid. Jake was cool, but I didn't understand how he was Maddy's best friend, then they fight over something stupid (which, I get it, they're like, what, 14?) but they remain enemies for years!!!! Then all of the sudden they're sleeping together, then best friends, and they barely even talk about how rude Jake was in previous years, then Jakes confessing his feelings for her. I didn't find it hard to believe that they were all having sex at such a young age, which is sad, but I see it around me, and I did when I was younger, too. I actually really liked Chris because he was one of the only genuine characters. There wasn't much heartfelt emotion in this story sadly. I think this book definitely shows the power of friendship and love. Since the ripe age of six Jake and Maddy were destined to be together judging by all the shit they went through but yet still managed to end up together.
I'm a sucker for love stories between friends who have known each other since they were little and that's why this book caught my eye. I had to laugh, though, because throughout the beginning of the book I kept forgetting they were at such young ages. I kept thinking, What are doing???? Stop!!! So immature!!! but then I'd remember they're all like 13-16 years old and that's those glorious years full of stupid mistakes and drama. I thought it was cool that we got to see Jake and Maddy from when they were little until they were around 22, but the way it's explained was confusing. Most books will talk about the characters' present life and have flashbacks or explain memories from past times, whereas this book was jumping all over the place and there was a lot of things that weren't really crucial to the story. There was a lot of "that Christmas..." and "later that year..." and "for that thanksgiving..." and it confused me when it skipped a few months ahead or backtracked to past times. The characters didn't have much depth and they all seemed to screw around – they seemed like a bunch of backstabbers, except for Michelle... she was solid. Jake was cool, but I didn't understand how he was Maddy's best friend, then they fight over something stupid (which, I get it, they're like, what, 14?) but they remain enemies for years!!!! Then all of the sudden they're sleeping together, then best friends, and they barely even talk about how rude Jake was in previous years, then Jakes confessing his feelings for her. I didn't find it hard to believe that they were all having sex at such a young age, which is sad, but I see it around me, and I did when I was younger, too. I actually really liked Chris because he was one of the only genuine characters. There wasn't much heartfelt emotion in this story sadly. I think this book definitely shows the power of friendship and love. Since the ripe age of six Jake and Maddy were destined to be together judging by all the shit they went through but yet still managed to end up together.
June 7, 2015
** Provided on behalf of the author for an honest review **
Best friends.
School mates.
Bonded forever.
But what happens when it all falls apart?
How do you move forward when the one person who you always thought you could rely on is no longer there?
How do you deal with having to see them each and every single day at school?
How do you simply cope losing your best friend?
This is Madison and Jake’s story.
Best friends since Madison was six years old, never once did she think that the bond of their friendship would be broken and shattered.
But that is exactly what happens.
Heartbroken, Madison is determined to move forward from the hurt and the pain of losing Jake.
But what happens when tragedy strikes?
Will Madison and Jake ever rekindle their friendship?
Can it be repaired?
Or has too much been said and done?
Soulmates is the first novel in the Soulmates Series.
We have to admit that we have never read anything by Nicole Dykes, but we are definitely glad we were given the opportunity too.
Soulmates is a YA novel that explores the issues that all teenagers face growing up. Boyfriends, girlfriends, relationships, best friends, casual sex, bullying, marriage….These are all issues that at one time or another teenagers will all come to face and Soulmates is a novel that takes you on that journey.
A short read but it is definitely one we believe that shouldn’t be missed. We are pretty sure that ALL young adults could definitely relate to the content of this novel.
A thoroughly enjoyable read.
For us a definite 4 star read.
Best friends.
School mates.
Bonded forever.
But what happens when it all falls apart?
How do you move forward when the one person who you always thought you could rely on is no longer there?
How do you deal with having to see them each and every single day at school?
How do you simply cope losing your best friend?
This is Madison and Jake’s story.
Best friends since Madison was six years old, never once did she think that the bond of their friendship would be broken and shattered.
But that is exactly what happens.
Heartbroken, Madison is determined to move forward from the hurt and the pain of losing Jake.
But what happens when tragedy strikes?
Will Madison and Jake ever rekindle their friendship?
Can it be repaired?
Or has too much been said and done?
Soulmates is the first novel in the Soulmates Series.
We have to admit that we have never read anything by Nicole Dykes, but we are definitely glad we were given the opportunity too.
Soulmates is a YA novel that explores the issues that all teenagers face growing up. Boyfriends, girlfriends, relationships, best friends, casual sex, bullying, marriage….These are all issues that at one time or another teenagers will all come to face and Soulmates is a novel that takes you on that journey.
A short read but it is definitely one we believe that shouldn’t be missed. We are pretty sure that ALL young adults could definitely relate to the content of this novel.
A thoroughly enjoyable read.
For us a definite 4 star read.
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