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I Wish #1
I Wish
What she needs is a miracle. What she gets is a genie with rules. Lacey Linden has gotten good at hiding the truth of her life—a depressed mom, a crumbling house, and bills too big to pay. In school, she's a girl with a ready smile and good grades, but at night, Lacey spends her time dreaming up ways to save her family. On a get-cash-quick trip to the flea market, she stumbles over a music box that seemingly begs her to take it home. She does, only to find it is inhabited by a gorgeous "genie." He offers her a month of wishes, one per day, but there's a catch. Each wish must be humanly possible. Grant belongs to a league of supernatural beings, dedicated to serving humans in need. After two years of fulfilling conventional wishes, he's one assignment away from promotion to a new job with more challenging cases. His month with Lacey is exactly what he expects and nothing like he imagines. Lacey and Grant soon discover that the hardest task of all might be saying goodbye. "Langston wisely limits the power of wishes, so there can be no easy fixes to complex problems...putting the focus on the compelling and sympathetic characters." --School Library Journal
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 18, 2014
142 people are currently reading
1955 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Langston
16 books198 followersElizabeth Langston lives in North Carolina, midway between the beach and the mountains. When she's not writing stories, she likes to stream mysteries, travel to faraway places, or curl up with a good book and a cup of coffee.
Elizabeth writes historical/ women's fiction and YA magical realism. As Julia Day, she has also written contemporary romance.
Elizabeth writes historical/ women's fiction and YA magical realism. As Julia Day, she has also written contemporary romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
September 17, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to FictionEtc Press and NetGalley.)
“My official title is ‘Benevolent Supernatural Being.’”
This was an okay paranormal romance, but the pace was pretty slow.
I felt quite sorry for Lacey in this story, coping with her mother’s depression was bad enough, without having the worries of paying the mortgage and keeping her family fed. The way that everybody kept telling her that ‘all she thought about was money’ was also unfair because she needed to think about money or they’d end up on the streets!
The storyline in this was a bit mushy, and I didn’t really like the romance. The rules concerning when genie’s could grant were pretty awful – no such thing as ‘can’t kill anybody, can’t make anyone fall in love, and can’t bring anyone back from the dead’, oh no, these rules were much worse! What use is a genie if he won’t use magic, can’t do anything that a human can’t, and won’t make you rich?! Not much use in my opinion.
The ending to this was okay, but it did leave certain things open, which I wasn’t really happy about.
6 out of 10
“My official title is ‘Benevolent Supernatural Being.’”
This was an okay paranormal romance, but the pace was pretty slow.
I felt quite sorry for Lacey in this story, coping with her mother’s depression was bad enough, without having the worries of paying the mortgage and keeping her family fed. The way that everybody kept telling her that ‘all she thought about was money’ was also unfair because she needed to think about money or they’d end up on the streets!
The storyline in this was a bit mushy, and I didn’t really like the romance. The rules concerning when genie’s could grant were pretty awful – no such thing as ‘can’t kill anybody, can’t make anyone fall in love, and can’t bring anyone back from the dead’, oh no, these rules were much worse! What use is a genie if he won’t use magic, can’t do anything that a human can’t, and won’t make you rich?! Not much use in my opinion.
The ending to this was okay, but it did leave certain things open, which I wasn’t really happy about.
6 out of 10
July 4, 2017
"Sometimes the hardest thing one can do is say goodbye."
A story of magic, realism, characteristics that helped me chuckle to myself in a room alone & smile so wide that I felt my smile muscles become a little sore, and adventure that didn't involve wild wishes, just wonderfully humane ones that seemed small, but were larger than first perceived.
(Did you know it takes more muscles to frown than to smile? Fun stuff).
•
•This was entertaining to say in the least. I enjoyed the advancements/changes to genies and their wishes the author made. Instead of any wish, the wish the human(s) got to make had to be "humanly as possible."
•I liked how the tragedy played out. How we, the readers, knew in the beginning what would happen in the end (based on the blurb) because it made us latch onto the story more so and hope. It helped me enjoy the heck out of this tale because it was wonderful and truthful.
•When people make mistakes, someone in this novel helped them. They helped each other see their errors, fix them, and admit that they would do better. I loved that.
•Friendship is an important thing and I enjoyed Eli's friendship development with Lacey.
•Pretty sure Henry, Lacey's brother, is my favorite character of this book. He was funny, helpful, a more honest and realistic portrayal of what a young kid really is, and when he was in the story, it made me smile because he was there. I liked how spunky he was, useful to the plot or not, he always tried to help and that had me grinning from cheek to cheek.
•This reminds me of a Dr. Seuss's quote, "Don't cry because it ended. Smile because it happened." (I wrote that from memory, so it may not be exact wording, but the message is clear).
Enjoy what you have now because you may not have it forever.
Work for that which you want. If it's worth it, work for it.
Never assume you know completely why someone is doing something.
This was a joyful tale with bits of woe sewn in and I applaud the author. Thank you for writing this.
A story of magic, realism, characteristics that helped me chuckle
(Did you know it takes more muscles to frown than to smile? Fun stuff).
•
•This was entertaining to say in the least. I enjoyed the advancements/changes to genies and their wishes the author made. Instead of any wish, the wish the human(s) got to make had to be "humanly as possible."
•I liked how the tragedy played out. How we, the readers, knew in the beginning what would happen in the end (based on the blurb) because it made us latch onto the story more so and hope. It helped me enjoy the heck out of this tale because it was wonderful and truthful.
•When people make mistakes, someone in this novel helped them. They helped each other see their errors, fix them, and admit that they would do better. I loved that.
•Friendship is an important thing and I enjoyed Eli's friendship development with Lacey.
•Pretty sure Henry, Lacey's brother, is my favorite character of this book. He was funny, helpful, a more honest and realistic portrayal of what a young kid really is, and when he was in the story, it made me smile because he was there. I liked how spunky he was, useful to the plot or not, he always tried to help and that had me grinning from cheek to cheek.
•This reminds me of a Dr. Seuss's quote, "Don't cry because it ended. Smile because it happened." (I wrote that from memory, so it may not be exact wording, but the message is clear).
Enjoy what you have now because you may not have it forever.
Work for that which you want. If it's worth it, work for it.
Never assume you know completely why someone is doing something.
This was a joyful tale with bits of woe sewn in and I applaud the author. Thank you for writing this.
July 20, 2015
I loved this book up until the last few chapters. The ending dropped this book from four stars to three for me. I know some reviewers would think this is unfair, but a book's ending can change my whole perception. This is an ending that some people will love and others, like me, will hate. It's well-written and one could make the argument for its realism. But that's not what I typically look for in books (why I prefer fantasy). Life is hard and I usually read to escape. When it comes to romance, I want my HEA. That's what I was hoping for in this book, and it did not deliver. It just left me feeling sad and I hate feeling that way at the end of a book I've invested in emotionally. Since it looks like the next book in the series follows this MC's friend instead of her, I don't really have an interest in reading it. I will wait to see the reviews.
This book was mostly fun, fast-paced, quirky, and well-written and I know many readers will enjoy it despite the ending. But for now, I am disappointed.
This book was mostly fun, fast-paced, quirky, and well-written and I know many readers will enjoy it despite the ending. But for now, I am disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2015
(I received a copy from Netgalley, In exchange for an honest review.)
Lacey had to deal with quite a lot in this, so I felt quite sorry for her.
This wasn't a bad read, but the pacing was really slow, which made the story drag for me.
I wasn't a fan of the romance side of the book, which only made the dragging worse unfortunately.
Overall, Not bad, but not sure if I'll be continuing with the series.
Lacey had to deal with quite a lot in this, so I felt quite sorry for her.
This wasn't a bad read, but the pacing was really slow, which made the story drag for me.
I wasn't a fan of the romance side of the book, which only made the dragging worse unfortunately.
Overall, Not bad, but not sure if I'll be continuing with the series.
November 21, 2014
Review Originally Posted At: The Y.A. Bookworm Blogger
After reading the synopsis for I Wish, I immediately asked myself, "When was the last time you read a genie book?" The answer to that was "I HAVE NO IDEA BECAUSE I'M PRETTY SURE I'VE NEVER READ A GENIE BOOK!" (You may think the caps are an exaggeration, but no, my mind is just that crazy, haha)! Long story short, I knew that I Wish was a book that I really wanted to read and Spencer Hill Press was generous enough to send me a copy to review. I finished this book within a day and I'm overwhelmed by its adorable magic-ness!
Our main character, Lacey, is a teen who's been forced to be the grown-up in her house after her step-father's passing about a year ago. Lacey has had to take on the heavy responsibility of working while in school, paying the bills and taking after her younger brother, Henry, because her mom is stuck in a state of depression. One day when Lacey brings home a music box from the flea market, help in the form of an extremely good-looking genie appears. The genie-- who goes by the name Grant-- will grant (tehehe) Lacey one humanly possible wish a day for a month.
One of the things I really admire about this book is the fact that although it's a genie book, I didn't find it cheesy. Grant is not your typical Aladdin genie; he looks like an everyday human, has a British accent, and can make any girl swoon. It was interesting to see that although I Wish is a book about Lacey, we also see lots of growth in Grant's character through his 'Daily Reports' to his boss at the end of each chapter.
I always love reading books centered around strong, female heroines and I Wish definitely has one of those. Lacey is a character who puts everyone else first and is determined to do whatever she can to keep her family together. I couldn't help but admire her and cheer her on throughout the entire book.
Grant's entrance into Lacey's life really turns Lacey's world upside down. He's able to use her wishes to help fix up her house in the physical sense, but she is unprepared for the emotional changes Grant brings to her family. Grant plays an instrumental role in Lacey's growth as a character, and it's one of the reasons I enjoyed their relationship so much. Their romantic relationship had all of those good swoony things, but there was also a lot of understanding and vulnerability between them that made them work beautifully as a couple. My only complaint about I Wish is the way the relationship between the two of them was left off...I know this is supposed to be the first in a series but because we don't know whether the next book is still going to be about Lacey, I'm a little disappointed.
After reading the synopsis for I Wish, I immediately asked myself, "When was the last time you read a genie book?" The answer to that was "I HAVE NO IDEA BECAUSE I'M PRETTY SURE I'VE NEVER READ A GENIE BOOK!" (You may think the caps are an exaggeration, but no, my mind is just that crazy, haha)! Long story short, I knew that I Wish was a book that I really wanted to read and Spencer Hill Press was generous enough to send me a copy to review. I finished this book within a day and I'm overwhelmed by its adorable magic-ness!
Our main character, Lacey, is a teen who's been forced to be the grown-up in her house after her step-father's passing about a year ago. Lacey has had to take on the heavy responsibility of working while in school, paying the bills and taking after her younger brother, Henry, because her mom is stuck in a state of depression. One day when Lacey brings home a music box from the flea market, help in the form of an extremely good-looking genie appears. The genie-- who goes by the name Grant-- will grant (tehehe) Lacey one humanly possible wish a day for a month.
One of the things I really admire about this book is the fact that although it's a genie book, I didn't find it cheesy. Grant is not your typical Aladdin genie; he looks like an everyday human, has a British accent, and can make any girl swoon. It was interesting to see that although I Wish is a book about Lacey, we also see lots of growth in Grant's character through his 'Daily Reports' to his boss at the end of each chapter.
I always love reading books centered around strong, female heroines and I Wish definitely has one of those. Lacey is a character who puts everyone else first and is determined to do whatever she can to keep her family together. I couldn't help but admire her and cheer her on throughout the entire book.
Grant's entrance into Lacey's life really turns Lacey's world upside down. He's able to use her wishes to help fix up her house in the physical sense, but she is unprepared for the emotional changes Grant brings to her family. Grant plays an instrumental role in Lacey's growth as a character, and it's one of the reasons I enjoyed their relationship so much. Their romantic relationship had all of those good swoony things, but there was also a lot of understanding and vulnerability between them that made them work beautifully as a couple. My only complaint about I Wish is the way the relationship between the two of them was left off...I know this is supposed to be the first in a series but because we don't know whether the next book is still going to be about Lacey, I'm a little disappointed.
September 22, 2015
*I was provided an eARC by FictionEtc Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
When I read the blurb for this book I decided that I needed to read it mostly because I never read a genie book. However this is not a simple genie book, it’s like a contemporary book, that I love, with a little bit of fantasy. I really liked this book and couldn’t stop reading which means that someone (me :P ) stayed up reading until 3 am and ended up reading this book in one-sitting.
The main character, Lacey, has a lot of problems. Her family doesn’t have money for food and she has to be the grown-up because of her mother’s depression. In one trip to the flea market Lacey gets a music box that happens to have a genie, Grant (can we talk about the great name? :P ), inside. Of course that with this development a lot happens and Grant starts helping Lacey. One thing I liked is that this is not like normal genie stories. Lacey has the right to 30 humanly possible wishes (one a day) instead of the normal 3 wishes. This was great because it allowed to see the characters development in that time frame. Another thing I really liked was that the romance in this book wasn’t insta-love. You can see their growing feelings through the month. I also enjoyed how in the end of each chapter we could read Grant’s letters to his boss with daily developments because you can really see his growth through the letters. I really liked all the characters, especially Lacey little brother Henry, and I loved to see that a lot of people really cared about her even if the thought that no one wanted to care about her. My main problem with this book was the ending. I needed more and I needed other things to happen but I understand why the author decided to write that ending.
Overall, this was a cute fast pacing book and if you want to read a cute contemporary book with a little bit of magic you should give this one a try. I know that I will be reading the next book in the series because I need to know more and read more about these characters.
When I read the blurb for this book I decided that I needed to read it mostly because I never read a genie book. However this is not a simple genie book, it’s like a contemporary book, that I love, with a little bit of fantasy. I really liked this book and couldn’t stop reading which means that someone (me :P ) stayed up reading until 3 am and ended up reading this book in one-sitting.
The main character, Lacey, has a lot of problems. Her family doesn’t have money for food and she has to be the grown-up because of her mother’s depression. In one trip to the flea market Lacey gets a music box that happens to have a genie, Grant (can we talk about the great name? :P ), inside. Of course that with this development a lot happens and Grant starts helping Lacey. One thing I liked is that this is not like normal genie stories. Lacey has the right to 30 humanly possible wishes (one a day) instead of the normal 3 wishes. This was great because it allowed to see the characters development in that time frame. Another thing I really liked was that the romance in this book wasn’t insta-love. You can see their growing feelings through the month. I also enjoyed how in the end of each chapter we could read Grant’s letters to his boss with daily developments because you can really see his growth through the letters. I really liked all the characters, especially Lacey little brother Henry, and I loved to see that a lot of people really cared about her even if the thought that no one wanted to care about her. My main problem with this book was the ending. I needed more and I needed other things to happen but I understand why the author decided to write that ending.
Overall, this was a cute fast pacing book and if you want to read a cute contemporary book with a little bit of magic you should give this one a try. I know that I will be reading the next book in the series because I need to know more and read more about these characters.
December 29, 2017
I don't know about you but I love books about genies! I loved I Dream of Genie when I was younger. This book is a new and different way to look at genies. A genie that can only grant wished humanly possible? Grant can't use magic on wish for anyone but his own wishes. I enjoyed this different way to look at genies. The book had me all the way through. Lacey and her family needed help and a genie they shall receive. I loved it!
November 11, 2015
Lacey's life is rough. After her stepfather's death, her mother hasn't been able to cope with life so she has taken on the responsibility of running the household. She has an 8-year-old brother, Henry, and she works hard to make sure he has a somewhat normal life. While at the flea market one day, she picks up a music box which she soon discovers is housing a handsome genie named Grant. He is able to grant one wish per day for a month which need to be humanly possible.
It was fun to see the changes Lacey went through during that month. I can't imagine how difficult her life was and it had to have been a relief to have someone to lean on and help her out. She was fun to get to know as she dealt with friend, family and relationship issues. I honestly wasn't sure where the romance would be in this book and was a little surprised at the direction it went. I enjoyed it, though, and also wasn't surprised at how it left off.
Grant, the genie, went through lots of changes as well. At the end of each chapter, he submits status reports to his boss and we get some insight into his thoughts and feelings. He's not impressed with Lacey at first but his opinion changes over time and he learns valuable lessons throughout the book.
This was a fun book to read from beginning to end! When I got done, I was glad I had the next one to start reading right away!
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
It was fun to see the changes Lacey went through during that month. I can't imagine how difficult her life was and it had to have been a relief to have someone to lean on and help her out. She was fun to get to know as she dealt with friend, family and relationship issues. I honestly wasn't sure where the romance would be in this book and was a little surprised at the direction it went. I enjoyed it, though, and also wasn't surprised at how it left off.
Grant, the genie, went through lots of changes as well. At the end of each chapter, he submits status reports to his boss and we get some insight into his thoughts and feelings. He's not impressed with Lacey at first but his opinion changes over time and he learns valuable lessons throughout the book.
This was a fun book to read from beginning to end! When I got done, I was glad I had the next one to start reading right away!
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
October 15, 2015
A very interesting and well-written book. Loved how this writer has this unique style of writing for this YA book. I enjoyed reading it very much, this is a must read for any all who love a thrill ride of adventure, romance, and magic.
August 20, 2018
Now that my heart has been ripped from me, I shall try to find words that accurately describe this stunning story.
At first look, this may appear to be a sappy high school romance with some feel good scenes, and as much as I enjoy YA Romances, I’m so glad that this book was more than that. Lacey and Grant are certainly the main characters, but the story is centered around repairing the brokenness of Lacey’s family, not their impossible romance. And to me, that was so much better.
I admired how Lacey handled her complicated life. She is a character who is self-reliant and a “get-it-done” girl who always puts her brother and her mother first, even if that means she has to give up the rest of her childhood so her 8-year-old brother can have a good one. She denies herself so many things that other teen girls take for granted and she battles realistic fears. I genuinely grew to love her and her family alike.
Grant is easy to love. He is patient, understanding, and cares deeply for this family that is so broken. Despite the fact that he’s a genie and literally has a timer for how much longer he has with them, he opens himself up to them and goes above and beyond what is wished of him.
Also, my close experience with family and friends being in the military (my sister is in the Navy and my two best friends are Marines), made me immensely appreciative of the honor and respect given to our military in this book. There are several distinct scenes that have the sole purpose of honoring our fallen heroes.
I loved everything about this book really, but the last thing I’ll mention specifically is the fact that Lacey and her brother Henry loved their step-father just as much as their real dad. And I believe that is huge in today’s literature. So many books and movies portray step family members as symbols of hate, and that’s simply not fair. There are many step families that have problems, sure, but there are also many that are blessings. So seeing the good image given to a step-dad for once in a YA book, pleased me more than I would have thought it would.
I Wish definitely receives a full 5 out of 5 stars from me along with a warning that there is a decent amount of cursing and several kisses, but nothing more.
This is a LiteratureApproved.com Review. I was not required to write a review.
At first look, this may appear to be a sappy high school romance with some feel good scenes, and as much as I enjoy YA Romances, I’m so glad that this book was more than that. Lacey and Grant are certainly the main characters, but the story is centered around repairing the brokenness of Lacey’s family, not their impossible romance. And to me, that was so much better.
I admired how Lacey handled her complicated life. She is a character who is self-reliant and a “get-it-done” girl who always puts her brother and her mother first, even if that means she has to give up the rest of her childhood so her 8-year-old brother can have a good one. She denies herself so many things that other teen girls take for granted and she battles realistic fears. I genuinely grew to love her and her family alike.
Grant is easy to love. He is patient, understanding, and cares deeply for this family that is so broken. Despite the fact that he’s a genie and literally has a timer for how much longer he has with them, he opens himself up to them and goes above and beyond what is wished of him.
Also, my close experience with family and friends being in the military (my sister is in the Navy and my two best friends are Marines), made me immensely appreciative of the honor and respect given to our military in this book. There are several distinct scenes that have the sole purpose of honoring our fallen heroes.
I loved everything about this book really, but the last thing I’ll mention specifically is the fact that Lacey and her brother Henry loved their step-father just as much as their real dad. And I believe that is huge in today’s literature. So many books and movies portray step family members as symbols of hate, and that’s simply not fair. There are many step families that have problems, sure, but there are also many that are blessings. So seeing the good image given to a step-dad for once in a YA book, pleased me more than I would have thought it would.
I Wish definitely receives a full 5 out of 5 stars from me along with a warning that there is a decent amount of cursing and several kisses, but nothing more.
This is a LiteratureApproved.com Review. I was not required to write a review.
November 18, 2015
Disclaimer: This book was sent to me by the publisher, FictionETC Press, via NetGalley for an honest review.
Opinion: This is a very sweet YA story that is sure to grab your attention and keep it. Even if you think this story is predictable and will turn out in the way you suspect, it doesn’t.
Lacey Linden is struggling with the burden of being the sole provider for her family, as well as still being in high school. Due to the death of her step-father, Lacey’s mother has become overly depressed and “checked out”. Due to her mother, Crystal, not being able to work and bring money into their home, Lacey has been left to deal with the responsibilities of taking care of her little brother Henry and paying their various bills and debt. But after Lacey purchases a music box from the flea market, her entire world changes. After Lacey arrives home and begins polishing the music box, to her astonishment, a genie by the name of Grant appears. Grant explains to Lacey that she will receive one wish each day for a month. But instead of Lacey wasting each wish on herself, she focuses on how to make money, spruce up her family’s home, and help her family become whole again.
I wanted to start out by saying that I wasn’t too thrilled about how this book began, purely because it felt rushed. Maybe I am just used to the beginning of a story being slow so that the author can allow time for the reader to get acquainted with the characters and the situations, but this felt much too thrown together. However, once Grant gets introduced into the picture the story keeps a steady past until the end.
The character of Lacey feels highly realistic to me. She has been placed into the role of being the parent of her household, and tries very hard to keep her family together. She over obsesses about their money issues, looks over her younger brother as if he were her child, and tries to manage school and a job all at once. I think that Lacey was extremely hard on her mother, even considering the circumstances that her mother has placed her in. I think she has a right to be angry, but obviously that wasn’t helping anyone’s situation. The idea of bringing a genie into this story and giving it a nice twist by only allowing the wishes to be completed if they were humanely possible was brilliant. I think it helps the reader appreciate the character of Grant more because he has to learn each skill that he possesses, as well as do all of the work on his own. The romance between Lacey and Grant was cute, but not as thrilling and exceptional as I hoped it would be. I think it could have been a little more developed and lead into something more special than how it was portrayed, simply put, this felt rushed as well. But other than those few things, I loved reading this book. I was addicted and stayed awake so that I could finish it and find out what happened.
Overall, this is perfect for young adult readers (maybe a little bit of a younger age group) who love a little romance and some magic. I also received the second book, Wishing For You, which I cannot wait to read…purely because I need to know what happens after the author just left me HANGING at the end of this book. ;)
Opinion: This is a very sweet YA story that is sure to grab your attention and keep it. Even if you think this story is predictable and will turn out in the way you suspect, it doesn’t.
Lacey Linden is struggling with the burden of being the sole provider for her family, as well as still being in high school. Due to the death of her step-father, Lacey’s mother has become overly depressed and “checked out”. Due to her mother, Crystal, not being able to work and bring money into their home, Lacey has been left to deal with the responsibilities of taking care of her little brother Henry and paying their various bills and debt. But after Lacey purchases a music box from the flea market, her entire world changes. After Lacey arrives home and begins polishing the music box, to her astonishment, a genie by the name of Grant appears. Grant explains to Lacey that she will receive one wish each day for a month. But instead of Lacey wasting each wish on herself, she focuses on how to make money, spruce up her family’s home, and help her family become whole again.
I wanted to start out by saying that I wasn’t too thrilled about how this book began, purely because it felt rushed. Maybe I am just used to the beginning of a story being slow so that the author can allow time for the reader to get acquainted with the characters and the situations, but this felt much too thrown together. However, once Grant gets introduced into the picture the story keeps a steady past until the end.
The character of Lacey feels highly realistic to me. She has been placed into the role of being the parent of her household, and tries very hard to keep her family together. She over obsesses about their money issues, looks over her younger brother as if he were her child, and tries to manage school and a job all at once. I think that Lacey was extremely hard on her mother, even considering the circumstances that her mother has placed her in. I think she has a right to be angry, but obviously that wasn’t helping anyone’s situation. The idea of bringing a genie into this story and giving it a nice twist by only allowing the wishes to be completed if they were humanely possible was brilliant. I think it helps the reader appreciate the character of Grant more because he has to learn each skill that he possesses, as well as do all of the work on his own. The romance between Lacey and Grant was cute, but not as thrilling and exceptional as I hoped it would be. I think it could have been a little more developed and lead into something more special than how it was portrayed, simply put, this felt rushed as well. But other than those few things, I loved reading this book. I was addicted and stayed awake so that I could finish it and find out what happened.
Overall, this is perfect for young adult readers (maybe a little bit of a younger age group) who love a little romance and some magic. I also received the second book, Wishing For You, which I cannot wait to read…purely because I need to know what happens after the author just left me HANGING at the end of this book. ;)
September 17, 2018
Recensione a cura di Lady Owl per Feel the Book
Devo confessare che quando ho iniziato a leggere questo libro mi sarei insultata da sola. Le prime battute sembravano riportarmi a uno young/fantasy/paranormal per niente attraente e pensavo di essere incappata in personaggi piatti e anche un po’ sciocchi.
Meno male che ho continuato a leggere.
Questo è un libro che parla di crescita, quella vera, quella che ti capita quando la tua vita è oramai entrata in un vicolo cieco dal quale è difficile poter uscire.
Lacey è un’adolescente alla quale non è consentito vivere come tale. Abita in una casa che non può più permettersi, si occupa di una madre depressa che non è più tale da tempo e di un fratellino di otto anni, l’unico che ostinatamente la spinge a resistere.
Poi nella vita di Lacey entra il più improbabile dei personaggi.
Lacey compra un carillon in un mercatino delle pulci e neanche lei sa perché. Risulterà che quell’oggetto è abitato da un genio, o meglio un Essere Soprannaturale Benevolo, dall’aspetto adolescenziale di nome Grant.
I guai di Lacey sembrerebbero risolti, ha addirittura trenta desideri da esprimere, uno al giorno, per cui questione risolta.
Manco per idea. Grant è un genio strano, non può usare la magia per soddisfare i desideri di Lacey, ha un regolamento da rispettare.
nsomma all’apparenza una fregatura, meglio neanche trovarlo un genio così. Eppure, piano piano, Grant si insinua nella triste vita di Lacey risolvendo, volta per volta, i problemi che si presentano, standole accanto nei momenti peggiori e iniziando a nutrire per lei sentimenti decisamente umani.
Lacey, dal canto suo, all’inizio lo vede solo come qualcuno che può tornarle utile, ma lentamente, si rende conto di quanto fosse vuota e complicata la sua vita prima dell’arrivo di quello strano alleato.
Lacey e Grant faranno un percorso di crescita in due mondi così lontani che era inimmaginabile potessero, infine, toccarsi. Le decisioni che prenderanno modificheranno profondamente la loro vita e forse li condurranno dove non pensavano di poter arrivare.
Questo è un libro sulla speranza e la gioia per le piccole grandi scoperte della vita, sulla perdita e sull’importanza dei legami familiari, sull’amore che arriva e che conquista.
Scritto e tradotto molto bene, ti cattura e ti resta dentro, una lettura che ti fa riconciliare con l’adolescente che ancora alberga in te.
Consigliato a tutti, ma in particolare ai ragazzi e alle ragazze che danno per scontato il loro benessere e che si perdono in mille futili desideri, quando quelli veri non sono per noi stessi, ma coinvolgono sempre gli altri.
Il finale forse non sarà quello che ci si aspettava, ma quando mai lo è nella vita vera?
Editing a cura di Ash per Feel the Book
Devo confessare che quando ho iniziato a leggere questo libro mi sarei insultata da sola. Le prime battute sembravano riportarmi a uno young/fantasy/paranormal per niente attraente e pensavo di essere incappata in personaggi piatti e anche un po’ sciocchi.
Meno male che ho continuato a leggere.
Questo è un libro che parla di crescita, quella vera, quella che ti capita quando la tua vita è oramai entrata in un vicolo cieco dal quale è difficile poter uscire.
Lacey è un’adolescente alla quale non è consentito vivere come tale. Abita in una casa che non può più permettersi, si occupa di una madre depressa che non è più tale da tempo e di un fratellino di otto anni, l’unico che ostinatamente la spinge a resistere.
Poi nella vita di Lacey entra il più improbabile dei personaggi.
Lacey compra un carillon in un mercatino delle pulci e neanche lei sa perché. Risulterà che quell’oggetto è abitato da un genio, o meglio un Essere Soprannaturale Benevolo, dall’aspetto adolescenziale di nome Grant.
I guai di Lacey sembrerebbero risolti, ha addirittura trenta desideri da esprimere, uno al giorno, per cui questione risolta.
Manco per idea. Grant è un genio strano, non può usare la magia per soddisfare i desideri di Lacey, ha un regolamento da rispettare.
nsomma all’apparenza una fregatura, meglio neanche trovarlo un genio così. Eppure, piano piano, Grant si insinua nella triste vita di Lacey risolvendo, volta per volta, i problemi che si presentano, standole accanto nei momenti peggiori e iniziando a nutrire per lei sentimenti decisamente umani.
Lacey, dal canto suo, all’inizio lo vede solo come qualcuno che può tornarle utile, ma lentamente, si rende conto di quanto fosse vuota e complicata la sua vita prima dell’arrivo di quello strano alleato.
Lacey e Grant faranno un percorso di crescita in due mondi così lontani che era inimmaginabile potessero, infine, toccarsi. Le decisioni che prenderanno modificheranno profondamente la loro vita e forse li condurranno dove non pensavano di poter arrivare.
Questo è un libro sulla speranza e la gioia per le piccole grandi scoperte della vita, sulla perdita e sull’importanza dei legami familiari, sull’amore che arriva e che conquista.
Scritto e tradotto molto bene, ti cattura e ti resta dentro, una lettura che ti fa riconciliare con l’adolescente che ancora alberga in te.
Consigliato a tutti, ma in particolare ai ragazzi e alle ragazze che danno per scontato il loro benessere e che si perdono in mille futili desideri, quando quelli veri non sono per noi stessi, ma coinvolgono sempre gli altri.
Il finale forse non sarà quello che ci si aspettava, ma quando mai lo è nella vita vera?
Editing a cura di Ash per Feel the Book
November 22, 2014
A richly captivating and lovely YA read, I Wish was definitely a great book. From its well portrayed emotions to the engaging characters, this book was wonderful and I really liked it.
Lacey was definitely a strong character. Her father had died when she was young, her stepfather died a few years later, and her mother fell off the deep end after dealing (or not dealing, I guess) with all that grief. That left Lacey to taking care of her catatonic mother and little brother. She was certainly tough, protective over her family, and determined to do anything to take care of them. My only complaint is that her strength became stubbornness on a couple of occasions, when she was stuck on seeing other people's kindness as pity rather than a friend helping a friend. Other than that, though, I thought she was great.
Grant was good as well. His character was a little more shaky. On one had, he had some great character growth. At the end of each chapter, there was a report on that day's wish that he would send to his boss and I liked how his mindset and tone changed as the book went on. Not to mention how sweet he was and how caring he was of not only Lacey, but her mother and brother. However, at the same time, I didn't feel like we got to fully know his character. Things like his past, his true thoughts of his job. Basically anything about him that didn't pertain specifically to his happenings with Lacey's family was left out and that kept his character from being as deep as he could be. But, overall, I still liked him.
The romance was light, but worked really well. I thought Lacey and Grant were great together, though after that ending I wonder how things will go for them.
The plot was steadily paced. This author really does a great job of drawing the reader into the story with the captivating language and richly emotional world she creates, so that made sure I was kept engaged all the way through. I really liked the story and the ending has me curious to find out what happens next.
I Wish was a lovely YA read that I really enjoyed. With its realistically drawn characters and deep emotions, this book was definitely great. YA lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 18, 2015
I’ve always wanted a genie. Since watching I Dream of Jeannie as a child, I wanted my own genie. I remember making up a list of things I would want from my genie so when I saw this novel on NetGalley I had to read it, I had to just see how Lacey handles her month of “humanly possible” wishes. Humanly possible wishes are wishes that don’t require magic of any type, so she can’t wish for bags of money, a cure for an illness or a new car. Her wishes have to humanly done or conceived. Her genie Grant is gorgeous and this becomes an issue later, as the bigger issues in her life become smaller. Her major issue now is money or lack of money. Her stepfather death and now her mother’s depression has caused financial problems for the family and the financial situation lies on Lacey’s lap. Granting one wish per day, she uses Grant’s ability to help her family. Grant on the other hand, is confused with his placement; his daily reports transmitted to his boss reflect his thoughts and concerns about his assignment and what his future holds. Lacey wants to be 17 but this responsibility can’t let her be the teen she wants to be. Grant is trying to hold on to his position as her genie but he sees what is going on within the family and he’s struggling to be her servant.
There were many individuals who cared about Lacey and she kept them all within arm’s reach. She never had them close but yet they stayed there reaching out to her as she pulled herself back, if they got too close. There was something about her, they all knew it. They cared enough to question Grants character, to question the man who worked for nothing. Many great friendships flowed between the pages in this novel. It was a fun entertaining read.
I received a copy of this novel from NetGalley and Spencer Hill Press in exchange for an honest review.
There were many individuals who cared about Lacey and she kept them all within arm’s reach. She never had them close but yet they stayed there reaching out to her as she pulled herself back, if they got too close. There was something about her, they all knew it. They cared enough to question Grants character, to question the man who worked for nothing. Many great friendships flowed between the pages in this novel. It was a fun entertaining read.
I received a copy of this novel from NetGalley and Spencer Hill Press in exchange for an honest review.
September 4, 2015
I didn't know what to expect with this book, but I honestly didn't want to put it down! It was too much to read in one sitting, but I kept coming back to it as fast as I could!
Lacey is a strong character. Her father died when she was young, and her stepfather has recently died. Her mother has fallen apart, and Lacey is trying to make ends meet while not letting anyone know the poverty they are in. She is keeping it all together for her younger brother - her biggest fear is that people will find out how bad things are and that CPS will take her younger brother away.
Lacey needs help, and she gets it... in the form of a Supernatural Being, i.e. Genie named Grant. Grant has all kinds of rules - she gets 30 wishes in 30 days, no more than one wish a day, and it has to be humanly possible. What Lacey thinks she needs isn't humanly possible... Grant is arrogant and thinks he knows everything about Lacey. But even he is surprised at how much she is covering up and his opinions of her begin to change. He has never worked with a human that was so selfless and strong. I really liked getting Grant's POV at the end of each chapter.
I loved the other characters in this book, too... Her little brother Henry who tried so hard to not be another burden on Lacey, Eli who was so patient and kind, and there for her whether or not she wanted him to be, and Kimberley with her unusual disability added another interesting layer to this story.
Some things in this book didn't go the way I expected or maybe even wanted them to go, but that just made me love it even more. This was the first book I have read by this author, but it won't be the last...
Content: Clean, some mild swearing
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
Lacey is a strong character. Her father died when she was young, and her stepfather has recently died. Her mother has fallen apart, and Lacey is trying to make ends meet while not letting anyone know the poverty they are in. She is keeping it all together for her younger brother - her biggest fear is that people will find out how bad things are and that CPS will take her younger brother away.
Lacey needs help, and she gets it... in the form of a Supernatural Being, i.e. Genie named Grant. Grant has all kinds of rules - she gets 30 wishes in 30 days, no more than one wish a day, and it has to be humanly possible. What Lacey thinks she needs isn't humanly possible... Grant is arrogant and thinks he knows everything about Lacey. But even he is surprised at how much she is covering up and his opinions of her begin to change. He has never worked with a human that was so selfless and strong. I really liked getting Grant's POV at the end of each chapter.
I loved the other characters in this book, too... Her little brother Henry who tried so hard to not be another burden on Lacey, Eli who was so patient and kind, and there for her whether or not she wanted him to be, and Kimberley with her unusual disability added another interesting layer to this story.
Some things in this book didn't go the way I expected or maybe even wanted them to go, but that just made me love it even more. This was the first book I have read by this author, but it won't be the last...
Content: Clean, some mild swearing
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
November 21, 2015
I beyond fell in love with this novel the second that I started reading it. The author has such a way with words that I never wanted to stop reading... I found myself taking every second of my breaks just to get a little farther into Lacey's story. Lacey is such a complex character that I couldn't get enough; I wanted to know more and more about her. I felt like she was a very relate-able person. She would push people away because she honestly felt like she had no choice and I could understand it.
Most of the characters were expanded on- I liked the fact that the main characters had backstories... like Kim with her cancer and Sara with her parents; too often supporting characters don't get enough attention but I felt like the author gave these supporting characters just enough to make them important and interesting.
Eli and Grant. Heart throbs? Dream guys? Oh heck yes. Generous, kind, handsome... everything a girl could ever want! Perfect characters to include in this book.
The author writes with a grace that is not common, her paragraphs flow from one to the other seamlessly. The scenes change at exactly the right time; you can't help but keep reading because it consumes you. I loved this book and I can't not wait to read the next one.
Most of the characters were expanded on- I liked the fact that the main characters had backstories... like Kim with her cancer and Sara with her parents; too often supporting characters don't get enough attention but I felt like the author gave these supporting characters just enough to make them important and interesting.
Eli and Grant. Heart throbs? Dream guys? Oh heck yes. Generous, kind, handsome... everything a girl could ever want! Perfect characters to include in this book.
The author writes with a grace that is not common, her paragraphs flow from one to the other seamlessly. The scenes change at exactly the right time; you can't help but keep reading because it consumes you. I loved this book and I can't not wait to read the next one.
September 17, 2015
Lacey is struggling--she needs a miracle. The death of her step father sent her mother spiraling out of control. She no longer puts any effort into life-which leaves Lacy struggling to support her family without anyone knowing how bad life has become. What she gets is a music box with a genie inside. He happens to be 18, super hot and has rules about her wishes. They have to be humanly possible. BUT, she does get 30 of them. Once she decides she isn't really hallucinating, she has to decide what she can accept help doing.
This story was cute. Grant's job is to learn about human emotions and no one feels a wide range of emotions faster and deeply than a teenage girl! Poor Grant. I could totally relate to this story and will read the next book in this series.
This story was cute. Grant's job is to learn about human emotions and no one feels a wide range of emotions faster and deeply than a teenage girl! Poor Grant. I could totally relate to this story and will read the next book in this series.
September 9, 2015
I enjoyed this book a lot. I gave it four stars even though some things bothered me that the proofreader didn't catch. No I don't expect perfection. I love the twist on the genie and his abilities. Sometimes Lacey got on my nerves, but I could understand and relate to her. Her mother not so much. Lacey is doing everything she can, and does it all in secret. I was disappointed that we didn't find out about what she did with the stuff in the storage or what was in the box for Henry. I will be reading the second book.
September 23, 2015
Received from: FictionEtc Press
Received Via: NetGalley.com
THE REVIEW
Why this book?
It seemed like a book for me
What I thought
I really liked this book. The characters felt real and I connected with them easily and the plot flowed Seamlessly. I also liked the romance I was rooting for it from the beginning! Lacey is a character that can get on your nerves, but I really liked Grant though. I really felt for them and wished they could just be together. With that said this was overall an enjoyable read.
Received Via: NetGalley.com
THE REVIEW
Why this book?
It seemed like a book for me
What I thought
I really liked this book. The characters felt real and I connected with them easily and the plot flowed Seamlessly. I also liked the romance I was rooting for it from the beginning! Lacey is a character that can get on your nerves, but I really liked Grant though. I really felt for them and wished they could just be together. With that said this was overall an enjoyable read.
February 5, 2016
Er zaten heel wat hartverwarmende momenten in dit boek en ik vond het dan ook echt een heel leuk boek. Er zit ook veel romantiek in waarbij ik af en toe echt hardop zei; “Ah lief!” maar er zaten ook best serieuze momenten in.
lees de hele recensie op mijn blog
lees de hele recensie op mijn blog
March 2, 2015
I really enjoyed this book told from the POV of the young girl and the genie. It was an interesting format as his POV is in letters to his boss reporting the day he's just had.
I thought this book explored how grief affects a family without being too grim. Looking forward to the follow up.
I thought this book explored how grief affects a family without being too grim. Looking forward to the follow up.
May 16, 2015
I just have a lot of feelings right now...
June 7, 2018
*This book stirred lots of emotions while I was reading it. Lacey is not your typical teen. Not only did she take over the obligation of her only living parent, but also she had to keep their situation discreet for the welfare of her family especially of her brother. You'll applaud her skill of finding a solution to almost everything. After all she'd been going through, she deserved to be happy. Thanks to the gorgeous Benevolent Supernatural Being named Grant who came her way. The fact that he was only able to grant wishes that are humanly possible set him apart from the genie that we're accustomed to. It also sent the message that we are capable of solving our own miseries. Sometimes all we need is just a little push, acknowledge that no man is an island and a pat on the back means a lot to keep us going.
*I like how the early chapters ended with a letter of Grant to his Boss. It gave us a peek on what's going on inside his head. I giggled like a teen when he started to develop feelings to his Chief to the point that he was willing to put his promising career behind just to stay with her and her family because he never felt that happy.
*I was broken when Lacey decided to let him go. She deserved to be happy as I mentioned earlier. She also shouldn't have denied Grant that same happiness brought by loving and being loved. But she had to do it, otherwise the whole series wouldn't be possible.
*Call me shallow or whatever but I shed a tear or two when the two had this brief reunion at Lacey's attic bedroom. Too bad that it ended too soon with Lacey only wishing Grant well.
*A good read. I had a hard time putting the book down. I had my hopes high through most of the chapters, though the ending was a letdown. But it's how the author played with emotions. Will definitely be reading the next one.
*I like how the early chapters ended with a letter of Grant to his Boss. It gave us a peek on what's going on inside his head. I giggled like a teen when he started to develop feelings to his Chief to the point that he was willing to put his promising career behind just to stay with her and her family because he never felt that happy.
*I was broken when Lacey decided to let him go. She deserved to be happy as I mentioned earlier. She also shouldn't have denied Grant that same happiness brought by loving and being loved. But she had to do it, otherwise the whole series wouldn't be possible.
*Call me shallow or whatever but I shed a tear or two when the two had this brief reunion at Lacey's attic bedroom. Too bad that it ended too soon with Lacey only wishing Grant well.
*A good read. I had a hard time putting the book down. I had my hopes high through most of the chapters, though the ending was a letdown. But it's how the author played with emotions. Will definitely be reading the next one.
October 9, 2024
Lacey Linden is smart, talented, dedicated, and a protective big sister. Lacey is trying to finish out her senior year early so that she can work full time to support her grieving widowed mother and her young brother. Her mother has checked out of reality, and is drowning deep in depression so it is up to Lacey to put food on the table, pay the bills, and keep Henry safe and away from foster care. It’s not an easy task, and Lacey refuses to ask for help, she will do whatever it takes to keep their family together. While selling items at the local flee market for some much needed cash, Lacey stumbles across a beautiful music box that seems to call her name; the owner throws the magic box into the trade. When she arrives home, Lacey discovers that there is more to the music box than just music. She now is now the master to a very cute, very sweet, and very hardworking genie. For the next month she can make a wish every day. This is exactly the break that she has needed. Grant and Lacey must work together and learn from each other throughout his stay.
I get so excited when I stumble across a new talented author. This is the first time I have read a story about genies, I loved it! It’s definitely a new topic that I would like to read more of in the future. Lacey is such a strong independent character that you come to respect. I found myself caring for this young woman who loves her little brother so much, and I admired the spunk and courage she needs to carry the family through its rough times. It's a bonus that we get to see such a sweet romance that blossoms between a genie and his master. I can’t wait to read the second book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I get so excited when I stumble across a new talented author. This is the first time I have read a story about genies, I loved it! It’s definitely a new topic that I would like to read more of in the future. Lacey is such a strong independent character that you come to respect. I found myself caring for this young woman who loves her little brother so much, and I admired the spunk and courage she needs to carry the family through its rough times. It's a bonus that we get to see such a sweet romance that blossoms between a genie and his master. I can’t wait to read the second book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2022
Hey, there are things I like about I Wish including the overall premise (I love djinn), an ISTJ female protagonist, and the discussion of themes such as poverty, depression, grief, disabilities, ableism, and community. I especially like the underlying message that our MC Lacey should be able to go to her community for help when her family's in need. However, I think the author chose too many themes to tackle, so there none of the themes were handled particularly well.
There are also things I think are handled poorly, including their teacher only respecting a student with disabilities after he found out the student's grandfather is a powerful figure in their community. The author styled this as a triumph, but is it really? Why can't their teacher just respect the student for who they are?
I agree with other reviewers that the romance was completely unnecessary and underdeveloped. The two MCs had zero chemistry, and I don't think they spent enough time interacting to have a robust relationship.
I also didn't understand how Lacey had any friends as she wasn't really a likable person even though we, the readers, feel bad for her.
I could've done without the random "WE LOVE THE MILITARY!!!!! THEY'RE HEROES!!!!!" moment. And maybe I'm unique in this, but when I was in high school, students never literally stood up and applauded something another student said in class (as opposed to during a presentation or speech), but yet it happens TWO TIMES in I Wish. I feel like our author spends a little too much time on Facebook with all her conservative friends lol
There are also things I think are handled poorly, including their teacher only respecting a student with disabilities after he found out the student's grandfather is a powerful figure in their community. The author styled this as a triumph, but is it really? Why can't their teacher just respect the student for who they are?
I agree with other reviewers that the romance was completely unnecessary and underdeveloped. The two MCs had zero chemistry, and I don't think they spent enough time interacting to have a robust relationship.
I also didn't understand how Lacey had any friends as she wasn't really a likable person even though we, the readers, feel bad for her.
I could've done without the random "WE LOVE THE MILITARY!!!!! THEY'RE HEROES!!!!!" moment. And maybe I'm unique in this, but when I was in high school, students never literally stood up and applauded something another student said in class (as opposed to during a presentation or speech), but yet it happens TWO TIMES in I Wish. I feel like our author spends a little too much time on Facebook with all her conservative friends lol
January 19, 2022
A smart take on the genie gives you wishes plot. This time, the genie, who prefers to be called "Benevolent Supernatural Being," AKA Grant, lives in a tiny church that's part of a Christmas scene inside a music box. When Lacey Linden's depressed and irresponsible mom steals her hard earned money, designated to pay the electric bill, Lacey is desperate. She takes a set of antique silver candlesticks to a lady at the local flea market to see if she can recoup the stolen funds. When she spots the music box, something compels her to buy it.
This is the beginning of a very interesting journey for both Lacey and Grant. He's at her service for thirty days, able to grant one wish per day within guidelines. Neither makes a good first impression on the other, but as time goes on, they begin to understand more and work together. Grant's initial impression of Lacey as a spoiled, impatient teen is blown out of the water, as is her view of him as arrogant and unemotional. The unfolding following the initial wish is done to perfection, thanks to his reports to his boss at the end of most chapters plus how each wish is revealed. Add in a nice supporting cast and you get a terrific read. One so good I ordered the other two books in the series as soon as I finished this one.
This is the beginning of a very interesting journey for both Lacey and Grant. He's at her service for thirty days, able to grant one wish per day within guidelines. Neither makes a good first impression on the other, but as time goes on, they begin to understand more and work together. Grant's initial impression of Lacey as a spoiled, impatient teen is blown out of the water, as is her view of him as arrogant and unemotional. The unfolding following the initial wish is done to perfection, thanks to his reports to his boss at the end of most chapters plus how each wish is revealed. Add in a nice supporting cast and you get a terrific read. One so good I ordered the other two books in the series as soon as I finished this one.
August 3, 2018
How to rate this fairly? I rated this on the quality factor, not my enjoyment factor.
This book was written well in my opinion, I can’t complain about that.
It flowed a tad slowly, the characters were mostly likable & I could relate to the what’s going on with them in the story, & the story held my attention.
My problem, is this book was so very sad, it pulled on my heart-strings. I cried a lot! Too much! I don’t like to read such sad stories. I don’t mind a bit of sadness to a story if it works out to an HEA in the end. This story was sad all the way thru. The ending has a mild cliff hanger, enough to give a reader an ending point if they don’t want to continue, or a place to want to continue to see where the characters end up. I personally won’t continue with the series. It’s also not a book I would ever want to re-read. I read for escapism from life, I want up-lifting endings to make me feel good about what I read, not make me have swollen tear stained eyes & a runny red nose. I definitely don’t recommend this be read in a public place, so people won’t be looking at you strangely for crying over a book.
(To rate this on enjoyment factor would have been a 2 star)
This book was written well in my opinion, I can’t complain about that.
It flowed a tad slowly, the characters were mostly likable & I could relate to the what’s going on with them in the story, & the story held my attention.
My problem, is this book was so very sad, it pulled on my heart-strings. I cried a lot! Too much! I don’t like to read such sad stories. I don’t mind a bit of sadness to a story if it works out to an HEA in the end. This story was sad all the way thru. The ending has a mild cliff hanger, enough to give a reader an ending point if they don’t want to continue, or a place to want to continue to see where the characters end up. I personally won’t continue with the series. It’s also not a book I would ever want to re-read. I read for escapism from life, I want up-lifting endings to make me feel good about what I read, not make me have swollen tear stained eyes & a runny red nose. I definitely don’t recommend this be read in a public place, so people won’t be looking at you strangely for crying over a book.
(To rate this on enjoyment factor would have been a 2 star)
November 30, 2018
I thought this book would probably be silly. As it turned out it was a little less silly than I anticipated, so that was a nice surprise. (Though it is definitely silly.) Honestly I read it because it was a free download and I wanted something light and on that note it delivered.
However while the plot did have it's moving moments it was mostly boring. The romance also felt forced to me and had very little to do with the actual plot. It really didn't need to be in there.
And let me just say Grant is kind of useless as a genie. What good is a genie that can only do what is humanly possible? Free skilled labor is nice, don't get me wrong, but he didn't do a single thing that Lacy or her friends couldn't do themselves. I suppose that was the point but seriously, why would a magical genie do manual labor? It isn't like he's trapped, he WANTS to do this. It's weird.
However while the plot did have it's moving moments it was mostly boring. The romance also felt forced to me and had very little to do with the actual plot. It really didn't need to be in there.
And let me just say Grant is kind of useless as a genie. What good is a genie that can only do what is humanly possible? Free skilled labor is nice, don't get me wrong, but he didn't do a single thing that Lacy or her friends couldn't do themselves. I suppose that was the point but seriously, why would a magical genie do manual labor? It isn't like he's trapped, he WANTS to do this. It's weird.
September 24, 2018
This book was a breath of fresh air; an ingenious twist on genies, the way their supernatural society is organized, and the wishes they are allowed to grant. It is an easy, enjoyable read, a bit naive, but very sweet nonetheless. I really liked Lacey's narrative voice and, the scatterbrain that I am, admired her practicality, responsibility and organizational skills.The alternating, often clashing POVs made for a really entertaining experience, and the genie's perspective very often made me smile. His growing appreciation for Lacey and the way he becomes more and more human with each new report is so funny to watch!
Oh, and it gets bonus points for avoiding the traditional happy ending.
Oh, and it gets bonus points for avoiding the traditional happy ending.
August 29, 2018
Ok, I’m willing to admit that I nearly cried a couple times reading this. Lacey’s life was heartrendingly difficult; she and her family had been dealt blow after blow. And then this “benevolent supernatural being” (aka genie) comes along and changes everything, but not in the ways you would expect.
This was surprisingly realistic to me, considering there was a genie involved. Their feelings ran deep, and it was hard not to feel everything they were feeling as they experienced it.
The ending even wasn’t what I expected; it was more realistic than most books would normally go for.
5 stars, and I’m happy to give them.
This was surprisingly realistic to me, considering there was a genie involved. Their feelings ran deep, and it was hard not to feel everything they were feeling as they experienced it.
The ending even wasn’t what I expected; it was more realistic than most books would normally go for.
5 stars, and I’m happy to give them.
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