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Love in the 80s #2
1981: Jessie's Girl
From USA TODAY bestselling author, Lindy Zart, comes 1981: Jessie's Girl --
The road trip from Minnesota to Pennsylvania and back is meant to be the final adventure before four friends go their separate ways in the fall.
Except nothing goes as intended, beginning with the unexpected addition of Catherine Tate, Jessie Keller’s new girlfriend. Sam Kent denies his attraction to her while simultaneously deflecting unusual interest from his pal Hannah Lopez. Dickie Dean is the socially inept book lover who surprises them all.
Amidst a malfunctioning vehicle, being caught in the middle of a robbery, beer drinking, mosquito attacks, and other teenage drama, the five experience courage, broken hearts, fear, and laughter. Most importantly, they make memories.
**************************************
Before the internet…before sext messages, selfies, like buttons, and d**k picks…epic loves and broken hearts played out offline, on mixtapes that became the self-made soundtracks of a generation.
Love in the 80s: A New Adult Mix will be a collection of ten contemporary romance, new adult, stand-alone novellas set in the 1980s.
Written by award-winning and bestselling authors, one digital novella will be released on the last Friday of each month January - October in 2016. The title of each love story will be a hit song from the year that the novella represents. The totally awesome authors include: Casey L. Bond, Lindy Zart, Cambria Hebert, Amber Lynn Natusch, Misty Provencher, Rebecca Yarros, Rachel Higginson, RK Ryals, Cameo Renae and Chelsea Fine.
Love in the 80s: A New Adult Mix was created by UTOPiAcon founder, Janet Wallace, and is co-produced with award-winning book cover designer Regina Wamba (together they are WaWa Productions).
The road trip from Minnesota to Pennsylvania and back is meant to be the final adventure before four friends go their separate ways in the fall.
Except nothing goes as intended, beginning with the unexpected addition of Catherine Tate, Jessie Keller’s new girlfriend. Sam Kent denies his attraction to her while simultaneously deflecting unusual interest from his pal Hannah Lopez. Dickie Dean is the socially inept book lover who surprises them all.
Amidst a malfunctioning vehicle, being caught in the middle of a robbery, beer drinking, mosquito attacks, and other teenage drama, the five experience courage, broken hearts, fear, and laughter. Most importantly, they make memories.
**************************************
Before the internet…before sext messages, selfies, like buttons, and d**k picks…epic loves and broken hearts played out offline, on mixtapes that became the self-made soundtracks of a generation.
Love in the 80s: A New Adult Mix will be a collection of ten contemporary romance, new adult, stand-alone novellas set in the 1980s.
Written by award-winning and bestselling authors, one digital novella will be released on the last Friday of each month January - October in 2016. The title of each love story will be a hit song from the year that the novella represents. The totally awesome authors include: Casey L. Bond, Lindy Zart, Cambria Hebert, Amber Lynn Natusch, Misty Provencher, Rebecca Yarros, Rachel Higginson, RK Ryals, Cameo Renae and Chelsea Fine.
Love in the 80s: A New Adult Mix was created by UTOPiAcon founder, Janet Wallace, and is co-produced with award-winning book cover designer Regina Wamba (together they are WaWa Productions).
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First published February 26, 2016
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About the author
Lindy Zart
25 books1,058 followersLindy Zart is an American USA Today bestselling author who writes across a number of fictional genres such as new adult, contemporary romance, and fantasy. Her rom-com Roomies (2014) was an international bestseller that rose to #1 in Satire Fiction, Romantic Comedy, General Humor, and Humorous, becoming a USA Today bestseller. Lindy currently lives in Wisconsin with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 19, 2016
We all have an era that we wish we were born in or one that we love and fantasize about, for me it is the 80's and so it made sense to me to get the Love in the 80's collection. In this collection, each book is named after a popular song of that year, and each book is a year in the 1980's decade. I have to admit at first take I was surprised at this read as I am not used to the males being the lead characters in New Adult books or the fact that the males outweigh some female characters. In 1981, we met Sam who has been awoken by one of his best mates Jessie and Jessie's current flavor of the week Catherine Tate. The group of friends couldn't be any more different, but this is their last bit of freedom and time together before college hits. We have Sam - the main character, Jessie - the jerk, Catherine - his flavor of the week, Dickie - their brainiac and slightly overweight friend and Hannah - the female jock. During their road trip, they are about to discover that being in confined spaces; their friendships will be tested and emotions run high as they go through being victims of a hold-up, liking one another and jealousy striking. It will be one road-trip that this group of friends will never forget. The Love in the 80's books are all New Adult themed and written as Novellas - so are fast-paced reads.
February 27, 2016
I have to be honest and say that when I started I thought it would be something cheesy and with the typical "I like the girl of my best friend" because that is what it seems by the title and the way it begins (or maybe just it was my crazy imagination, who knows)
“You two just met last night, and you’re dating?” I lift my eyebrows. “Yes,” Catherine answers, brackets of unease surrounding her mouth as she divides her gaze between us. Jessie gives me a thumbs up sign while nodding enthusiastically. “We totally have a connection. Like, totally.”
Well, Jessie's girl is the story of Sam and his friends (plus an unexpected new girlfriend) on a road trip where he will discover one or two secrets and will be in a few dangerous and embarrassing situations. I liked the characters, with Jessie I have a love/hate relationship for how he behaved but later showed the kind of friend that he is, despite being a little idiot.
I’m going to try to be a better friend.” Jessie smiles faintly, the swelling of his nose and chin contorting his features. “I’m not sure I’ll be any good at it, but I’m going to try. I guess I needed to be hit a few times to realize some things.”
Even Cat, whom I thought I would hate for be the apple of discord at first but Lindy knew what to do with each scene and character. It’s a light book with the perfect length to tell the story, Jessie's girl is a sweet romance with real characters. Completely recommended.
“You two just met last night, and you’re dating?” I lift my eyebrows. “Yes,” Catherine answers, brackets of unease surrounding her mouth as she divides her gaze between us. Jessie gives me a thumbs up sign while nodding enthusiastically. “We totally have a connection. Like, totally.”
Well, Jessie's girl is the story of Sam and his friends (plus an unexpected new girlfriend) on a road trip where he will discover one or two secrets and will be in a few dangerous and embarrassing situations. I liked the characters, with Jessie I have a love/hate relationship for how he behaved but later showed the kind of friend that he is, despite being a little idiot.
I’m going to try to be a better friend.” Jessie smiles faintly, the swelling of his nose and chin contorting his features. “I’m not sure I’ll be any good at it, but I’m going to try. I guess I needed to be hit a few times to realize some things.”
Even Cat, whom I thought I would hate for be the apple of discord at first but Lindy knew what to do with each scene and character. It’s a light book with the perfect length to tell the story, Jessie's girl is a sweet romance with real characters. Completely recommended.
January 8, 2019
4 long-time friends go on a road trip to spend time together after graduating high school. There’s the nerd, the tomboy, the jerk, and the ‘regular’ guy. The jerk brings his new, as of last night, ‘perfect’ girl friend along without asking his friends first. This causes some major issues between them to be revealed where they have to deal with some ugly truths. A ‘coming-of-age’ story that takes place between Minnesota and West Virginia in an on-it’s-last-leg, orange Renault. A little draggy but a cute ending.
June 2, 2017
2 Stars
1981: Jessie's Girl is part of the Love in the 80s anthology and my second book in this series (the other one was 1984: Against All Odds by Rebecca Yarros).
The novella follows four friends from high school (Sam, Jessie, Hannah and Dickie) and Catherine who turns out to be Jessie's new flavor-of-the-week. The four friends + Catherine go on a roadtrip before they head off to college or start working.
I was not really satisfied with this novella. Unfortunately, the plot was not as good as the blurb promised. Sure, a road trip sounds fun but not this one. Although this novella has only 160 odd pages, I wanted to give up many times. The story dragged and the happenings along the way are not worth mentioning.
Another thing I didn't like were the characters, well, except for Dickie, who was a guy after my liking. He always had a book at hand and was adorably shy.
Then there was Jessie. Jessie was total a-hole, seriously. He made fun of everyone on the trip, even his gf Catherine. And not the good kind of fun, it was the bad and hurtful kind of fun. I really don't know what the deal with him was. More than half of this novella consisted of fighting. It was exhausting!
Sam (we see the story through his POV) was weird too. He had a thing for Hannah, no, he had a thing for Catherine, no Hannah, no Catherine etc. You see, I got whiplash because he changed his feelings every few pages.
I still don't know why the book is called "Jessie's Girl" since Jessie's girl was Catherine, but it didn't make much sense after reading, so who knows.
Also, I didn't feel any 80s vibes. The only thing I noticed was the mentioning of a few bands, who were famous in the 80s... Or maybe not, I'm a 90s kid so I wouldn't know. Plus, Dickie wanted to work with computers after college because he is sure that computers will take over the world - yes, my friend you were right about that! ;)
This novella is definitely for fans of the Love in the 80s anthology and Lindy Zart only.
1981: Jessie's Girl is part of the Love in the 80s anthology and my second book in this series (the other one was 1984: Against All Odds by Rebecca Yarros).
The novella follows four friends from high school (Sam, Jessie, Hannah and Dickie) and Catherine who turns out to be Jessie's new flavor-of-the-week. The four friends + Catherine go on a roadtrip before they head off to college or start working.
I was not really satisfied with this novella. Unfortunately, the plot was not as good as the blurb promised. Sure, a road trip sounds fun but not this one. Although this novella has only 160 odd pages, I wanted to give up many times. The story dragged and the happenings along the way are not worth mentioning.
Another thing I didn't like were the characters, well, except for Dickie, who was a guy after my liking. He always had a book at hand and was adorably shy.
Then there was Jessie. Jessie was total a-hole, seriously. He made fun of everyone on the trip, even his gf Catherine. And not the good kind of fun, it was the bad and hurtful kind of fun. I really don't know what the deal with him was. More than half of this novella consisted of fighting. It was exhausting!
Sam (we see the story through his POV) was weird too. He had a thing for Hannah, no, he had a thing for Catherine, no Hannah, no Catherine etc. You see, I got whiplash because he changed his feelings every few pages.
I still don't know why the book is called "Jessie's Girl" since Jessie's girl was Catherine, but it didn't make much sense after reading, so who knows.
Also, I didn't feel any 80s vibes. The only thing I noticed was the mentioning of a few bands, who were famous in the 80s... Or maybe not, I'm a 90s kid so I wouldn't know. Plus, Dickie wanted to work with computers after college because he is sure that computers will take over the world - yes, my friend you were right about that! ;)
This novella is definitely for fans of the Love in the 80s anthology and Lindy Zart only.
April 2, 2016
I do love books that are set in the past few decades, so was sure I would love this newer series Love In The 80s. I picked up Jessie's Girl first as I'd not read any of Lindy's books before plus the books aren't connected I believe. Each book is relatively short, easily read in 1 sitting I felt if this one was a guide.
I just didn't connect with this one like I hoped though. I didn't have a love for any of the characters, nor related to them either. It was an ok story, but I was disappointed I admit. I have been a bit in a rut with reading recently, so this could be the case with this book and maybe i'm judging it more harshly. Either way I didn't love it and was hoping to.
I just didn't connect with this one like I hoped though. I didn't have a love for any of the characters, nor related to them either. It was an ok story, but I was disappointed I admit. I have been a bit in a rut with reading recently, so this could be the case with this book and maybe i'm judging it more harshly. Either way I didn't love it and was hoping to.
November 20, 2019
I suppose you could say this was sort of a typical "coming of age" story I've already read a few times. But you know what? Sometimes I'm just a sucker for them. And I loved Sam and Hannah the very first moment they both appeared.
March 8, 2016
Ohhhhh, guys! I thought this story wasn't going to top the last one, but, man, was I wrong. I really think every story will get better and better. I'm loving everything about the 80s. Life was so simple back then.
This time around, we are 1981. When the biggest hit was Jessie's Girl by Rick Springfield and of course, in this story there would be a character call Jessie. Let me tell you, I never ever expect how everything turn out. Jessie Keller is the biggest jerk you can read about, but he is a jerk because of things or more like someone. Sam Kent is the biggest sweet boy ever, but he is very in the middle. Hannah Lopez is the girl that no girl likes, but all the boys want to hang out with. Catherine Tate is the most plastic and dumb girl in the planet. Dickie Dean is the bookworm, but oh surprise surprise... Everyone in this story changes completly!
Like always, I wanted more of this story. It just ended so quickly! This is basically a coming-to-age story of these friends who planned a road-trip before they went to separate ways after the summer. Truths are being kept, mysteries are going up the surface and friendships are put in the danger zone. The whole story keeps you wanting for more and more. I really enjoy it and love every single second of it.
I can't wait for the other stories. The 80s rock!
This time around, we are 1981. When the biggest hit was Jessie's Girl by Rick Springfield and of course, in this story there would be a character call Jessie. Let me tell you, I never ever expect how everything turn out. Jessie Keller is the biggest jerk you can read about, but he is a jerk because of things or more like someone. Sam Kent is the biggest sweet boy ever, but he is very in the middle. Hannah Lopez is the girl that no girl likes, but all the boys want to hang out with. Catherine Tate is the most plastic and dumb girl in the planet. Dickie Dean is the bookworm, but oh surprise surprise... Everyone in this story changes completly!
Like always, I wanted more of this story. It just ended so quickly! This is basically a coming-to-age story of these friends who planned a road-trip before they went to separate ways after the summer. Truths are being kept, mysteries are going up the surface and friendships are put in the danger zone. The whole story keeps you wanting for more and more. I really enjoy it and love every single second of it.
I can't wait for the other stories. The 80s rock!
May 4, 2016
"In a life of uncertainties, change is always a constant."
... is definitely the motto of this story. Four friends and one tag-along head off on an adventure. A final roadtrip to celebrate the end of an era, no more school and a last hoorah before adulthood and going their separate ways. Times are changing for these teens, feelings are evolving and secrets are revealed on this rocky adventure.
Though only a short story it sure packed a punch! It delved into the characters of these five people so well I felt as if I was there with the characters, each of them endearing in their own ways.
I couldn't help but fall in love with Sam, who as Hannah says, has a beautiful mind ... "I think ... that any place that has suffered great loss has remnants of its tragedy locked within the soil of the land." (And that's just one quote I highlighted from this well-written book!)
If you're looking for a quick escape read check this one out. It was brilliant! 4.5 stars
Though only a short story it sure packed a punch! It delved into the characters of these five people so well I felt as if I was there with the characters, each of them endearing in their own ways.
I couldn't help but fall in love with Sam, who as Hannah says, has a beautiful mind ... "I think ... that any place that has suffered great loss has remnants of its tragedy locked within the soil of the land." (And that's just one quote I highlighted from this well-written book!)
If you're looking for a quick escape read check this one out. It was brilliant! 4.5 stars
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February 26, 2016Jessie’s Girl by Lindy Zart (Young Adult)
I seriously love Lindy Zart. In my opinion, she cannot write a bad book. The year is 1981, and five friends go on a road trip that forever changes their lives. The dynamic between the five friends is amazing and realistic. Lindy Zart always knows how to tap into making you feel what the characters are feeling and what they are thinking. She has a way of making the characters come to life in such a way that you feel like you are right there with them.
I seriously loved all of the characters from the main character Sam Kent to the secondary characters. My only complaint with this book is that it was too short. Seriously it made me laugh, cry, and escape the drama of my real life. Kudos to you Lindy for writing another amazing story.
I give this story 5/5 Platypires and I will recommend it to others.
I seriously love Lindy Zart. In my opinion, she cannot write a bad book. The year is 1981, and five friends go on a road trip that forever changes their lives. The dynamic between the five friends is amazing and realistic. Lindy Zart always knows how to tap into making you feel what the characters are feeling and what they are thinking. She has a way of making the characters come to life in such a way that you feel like you are right there with them.
I seriously loved all of the characters from the main character Sam Kent to the secondary characters. My only complaint with this book is that it was too short. Seriously it made me laugh, cry, and escape the drama of my real life. Kudos to you Lindy for writing another amazing story.
I give this story 5/5 Platypires and I will recommend it to others.
April 26, 2016
:: 4 Pretty Little Stars ::
Another great addition to the Love in the 80's series. I love the 80's, so when I saw that an entire series was going to be published dedicated to this amazing era, I knew I HAD to read it. This is the second one I have read and once again, I really enjoyed it. These novellas are light, fun, and really cute. Each novella is dedicated to an awesome 80's song too so that makes the series even better. YAY. Just so much fun! Highly recommend this cool little series :)
Another great addition to the Love in the 80's series. I love the 80's, so when I saw that an entire series was going to be published dedicated to this amazing era, I knew I HAD to read it. This is the second one I have read and once again, I really enjoyed it. These novellas are light, fun, and really cute. Each novella is dedicated to an awesome 80's song too so that makes the series even better. YAY. Just so much fun! Highly recommend this cool little series :)
February 28, 2016
This short read packs quite an emotional punch! Don't let the length fool you, from beginning to end you get a complete story that's full of humor, drama, nostalgia, love and so much more. Jessie's Girl is a tad more serious that the previous book, but still manages to embody the classic 80's feel. I can't wait to see what else this series has in store for us, and look forward to discovering more authors I've never read before.
February 26, 2016
A great story about friendship.
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February 26, 2016DNF at 28%. I don't care about any of the characters and it isn't funny.
March 23, 2022
For someone who puts anything 80's to high regard, I find this an entertaining read. Although, I would have to admit this one was not gratifying on the romance front (not to mention the title ). Nonetheless, the simplicity of the decade, plus the entire story taking place of our characters on a road trip gives an engagingly nostalgic read for me.
This is my first book from the author and I think her writing style and storytelling is okay. She will surely be on my radar. And after reading this, I would also make sure to revisit this series because anything 80's inspired is truly a must read in my book...literally!
This is my first book from the author and I think her writing style and storytelling is okay. She will surely be on my radar. And after reading this, I would also make sure to revisit this series because anything 80's inspired is truly a must read in my book...literally!
July 18, 2017
This book follows the Rick Springfield song Jessie's Girl from the 80's (if you were not around in that era it really doesn't matter you will still enjoy this book-you can always YouTube it). The author did a great job at bringing this song to life. The novel follows four friends plus one on a road trip right after high school and just before they strike out on their adult life. While it is set in the 80's it can probably be any era with a road trip and older teens as the themes of finding oneself and learning about life are endless. This was a shorter read with some obvious teen angst but fun at times to keep it interesting.
May 27, 2024
Such a sweet novella and easy to pick up and binge on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Lindy Zart always does a great job with her character development and that's what shines through in this quick read.
No need to read "Love in the 80s" books in any order. In fact, start with this one!!!
Lindy Zart always does a great job with her character development and that's what shines through in this quick read.
No need to read "Love in the 80s" books in any order. In fact, start with this one!!!
February 19, 2018
Love ..love your best-friend
April 9, 2020
This dragged a little for me. I was glad Sam ended up with Hannah, though I had a feeling it was heading in that direction. This group of friends seems like an odd fit, but it works.
February 21, 2016
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jessie's Girl is a part of a Love in the 80's book series.
The year is 1981. The music is on point and the feel of the book is nostalgic.
I was born in 1981, so I don't remember the specific details of that year firsthand, but as a child born in that era, you tend to learn quickly as you're growing up. From the mention of Air Supply to the bold choices of color combinations... the eighties are alive and well in this book.
Putting the decade aside and focusing solely on the story itself... there was a lot to love about this novella about a group of friends spending their last summer together on a road trip from Minnesota to Pennsylvania.
It begins with Jessie, who obnoxiously wakes up his friend Sam in wee hours of the morning to start their road trip. Soon Sam discovers that Jessie is bringing along an unexpected guest, Catherine, his new girlfriend, whom he is immediately attracted to. Add to the mix Hannah, the strong, independent best friend and Dickie, the socially awkward bookworm and you've got quite the mix of personalities to fit into a small car going across the country.
I don't want to give too much away about the book because it's so much more fun going in with less information and discovering it on your own.
This is a book about much more than a road trip with friends. Each character goes on their own personal journey as they overcome fear, discover new and relive old feelings, break out of their comfort zone... changing the dynamic of their close group without even realizing it.
There were plenty of laugh out loud moments, as well as parts where my heart beat a little faster -- whether from excitement or from curiosity of what would happen next. Books that keep me on the edge of my proverbial seat as I'm reading are my favorite, and this book did just that and more!
My only complaint -- I wish it wasn't a novella and I could have more of their story. I would definitely recommend this to everyone who enjoys a good trip down memory lane and/or a story that swallows you up and doesn't let go until you reach the conclusion.
Jessie's Girl is a part of a Love in the 80's book series.
The year is 1981. The music is on point and the feel of the book is nostalgic.
I was born in 1981, so I don't remember the specific details of that year firsthand, but as a child born in that era, you tend to learn quickly as you're growing up. From the mention of Air Supply to the bold choices of color combinations... the eighties are alive and well in this book.
Putting the decade aside and focusing solely on the story itself... there was a lot to love about this novella about a group of friends spending their last summer together on a road trip from Minnesota to Pennsylvania.
It begins with Jessie, who obnoxiously wakes up his friend Sam in wee hours of the morning to start their road trip. Soon Sam discovers that Jessie is bringing along an unexpected guest, Catherine, his new girlfriend, whom he is immediately attracted to. Add to the mix Hannah, the strong, independent best friend and Dickie, the socially awkward bookworm and you've got quite the mix of personalities to fit into a small car going across the country.
I don't want to give too much away about the book because it's so much more fun going in with less information and discovering it on your own.
This is a book about much more than a road trip with friends. Each character goes on their own personal journey as they overcome fear, discover new and relive old feelings, break out of their comfort zone... changing the dynamic of their close group without even realizing it.
There were plenty of laugh out loud moments, as well as parts where my heart beat a little faster -- whether from excitement or from curiosity of what would happen next. Books that keep me on the edge of my proverbial seat as I'm reading are my favorite, and this book did just that and more!
My only complaint -- I wish it wasn't a novella and I could have more of their story. I would definitely recommend this to everyone who enjoys a good trip down memory lane and/or a story that swallows you up and doesn't let go until you reach the conclusion.
March 2, 2016
So I thought I'd set the mood while reading this shortish story. I put on my Breakfast Club soundtrack, grabbed a pair of really thick socks that I scrunched down. You know what I'm talking about. Found an insanely old scrunchie and put my hair up in a wild ponytail. My daughter said I looked kinda freaky. I said this was all the rage back in the day. She was unimpressed. Anyway, I love all things Lindy. Her stories suck you in & make your heart sing. She has this way of making you NEED to know everything about her characters and she fills you with such anticipation for what's to come. I love it!
Jessie's Girl is about a last road trip between 4 friends + 1 last minute addition. These people have known each other for all their lives and yet, they are just finally seeing each other in a new light. Whether it's the impending forced separation due to their after high school plans, or the close proximity driving through several states all crammed in a tiny car, these friends discover that the relationships they may have had at the beginning of the trip will never be the same. The quiet one stands up for himself. The bully gets knocked down a notch or two. The sensible one finally sees his best friend in a new light and the girl stuck in the perpetual "friend zone" manages to open the eyes of her true love.
This story is fun, makes me remember the simplicity of just driving around with friends and nostalgic for my childhood. Such a fun, quick read that, in true Lindy form, leaves you wanting more.
Jessie's Girl is about a last road trip between 4 friends + 1 last minute addition. These people have known each other for all their lives and yet, they are just finally seeing each other in a new light. Whether it's the impending forced separation due to their after high school plans, or the close proximity driving through several states all crammed in a tiny car, these friends discover that the relationships they may have had at the beginning of the trip will never be the same. The quiet one stands up for himself. The bully gets knocked down a notch or two. The sensible one finally sees his best friend in a new light and the girl stuck in the perpetual "friend zone" manages to open the eyes of her true love.
This story is fun, makes me remember the simplicity of just driving around with friends and nostalgic for my childhood. Such a fun, quick read that, in true Lindy form, leaves you wanting more.
May 10, 2016
Okay guys.
This is it. This is one of those books I wasn't too sure of when I first started but Lindy Zart did an amazing job to turn me around and make me love it.
It starts off with Sam being interested in his friend Jessie's girl named Catherine. She's cool, pretty, and this natural goddess that captures everyone's attention. However, we get to know more about Hannah--Sam's best friend since childhood. We start to see Hannah struggling to cope with how all the boys are falling for Catherine's charm but most importantly, how Sam is falling for her.
I was really annoyed because clearly, Catherine isn't that great compared to the connection Sam and Hannah shared but what do you know...don't judge a book by its name because things are kind of twisted.
"I don't know how or when it happened, but it was like, on day, out of nowhere, I noticed how green your eyes really are. They shine, and they're warm, like your heart. When you wink at me, my stomach spins," She whispers. "And your smile makes me want to smile. And the thought of leaving you hurts--not leaving my family or friends, not leaving the town, but you."
CAN I JUST DIE. THIS IS THE SWEETEST EVER!
Highly recommend this light read on a summer day. Oh and Lindy Zart?
She's the coolest. Here's the message at the very end of the book.
"If you enjoyed this book, please consider leaving a review on the site from where you bought it from. If you did not enjoy this book, please consider leaving a review on the site from where you bought it from. Keep it classy--all hateful posts will be framed and hung on a wall in my home for my kids to read. Please don't traumatize my kids." -Lindy.
This is it. This is one of those books I wasn't too sure of when I first started but Lindy Zart did an amazing job to turn me around and make me love it.
It starts off with Sam being interested in his friend Jessie's girl named Catherine. She's cool, pretty, and this natural goddess that captures everyone's attention. However, we get to know more about Hannah--Sam's best friend since childhood. We start to see Hannah struggling to cope with how all the boys are falling for Catherine's charm but most importantly, how Sam is falling for her.
I was really annoyed because clearly, Catherine isn't that great compared to the connection Sam and Hannah shared but what do you know...don't judge a book by its name because things are kind of twisted.
"I don't know how or when it happened, but it was like, on day, out of nowhere, I noticed how green your eyes really are. They shine, and they're warm, like your heart. When you wink at me, my stomach spins," She whispers. "And your smile makes me want to smile. And the thought of leaving you hurts--not leaving my family or friends, not leaving the town, but you."
CAN I JUST DIE. THIS IS THE SWEETEST EVER!
Highly recommend this light read on a summer day. Oh and Lindy Zart?
She's the coolest. Here's the message at the very end of the book.
"If you enjoyed this book, please consider leaving a review on the site from where you bought it from. If you did not enjoy this book, please consider leaving a review on the site from where you bought it from. Keep it classy--all hateful posts will be framed and hung on a wall in my home for my kids to read. Please don't traumatize my kids." -Lindy.
September 5, 2016
It begins with a road trip. The four friends will go their separate ways in two months. Four different lives, four different journeys. The dynamics between these four friends shifts while on a road trip together. They disclose information about each other that had not been revealed before.
Story's told from Sam's POV. It's a short story consisting of five chapters. Four friends set out on a road trip before heading off in different directions. During the trip everyone is acting differently and strangely. Some adventurous stuff happens along the way. Drinking alcohol and playing truth or dare helps pass the time. Catherine seems to be the catalyst that starts the confessional during the trip.
I wish it had been longer than five chapters. I would have liked more information regarding their childhood together as friends. I would have liked more in regards to their future plans and how they achieved living different lives. It was a decent read. Some sweet and innocent romance occurred but for the most part it was PG rated.
Story's told from Sam's POV. It's a short story consisting of five chapters. Four friends set out on a road trip before heading off in different directions. During the trip everyone is acting differently and strangely. Some adventurous stuff happens along the way. Drinking alcohol and playing truth or dare helps pass the time. Catherine seems to be the catalyst that starts the confessional during the trip.
I wish it had been longer than five chapters. I would have liked more information regarding their childhood together as friends. I would have liked more in regards to their future plans and how they achieved living different lives. It was a decent read. Some sweet and innocent romance occurred but for the most part it was PG rated.
February 26, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jessie’s Girl by Lindy Zart took me back to the days of watching ‘80s movies. Jessie’s Girl has the coming-of-age trip and the sweet teen romance so prevalent in the ‘80s. The story tugged at my heart with its bittersweet plot of one last road trip for the friends (plus one tag-a-long girlfriend) before they would all be parting ways for college and adult life. Zart’s characters always hook me, and this story was no different. The characters are on the cusp of adulthood and trying to discover who they are while each of them deals with their own personal demons. I instantly loved Hannah with her spitfire attitude and her fierce loyalty. Sam is an endearing character; he truly loves his friends even though he’s also not perfect. Dickie is probably my favorite character. There’s just something about a bookworm I can’t resist. Although I think the story was the exact length it needed to be, I was sad that it ended so soon! This was a wonderful read, and I highly recommend it.
Jessie’s Girl by Lindy Zart took me back to the days of watching ‘80s movies. Jessie’s Girl has the coming-of-age trip and the sweet teen romance so prevalent in the ‘80s. The story tugged at my heart with its bittersweet plot of one last road trip for the friends (plus one tag-a-long girlfriend) before they would all be parting ways for college and adult life. Zart’s characters always hook me, and this story was no different. The characters are on the cusp of adulthood and trying to discover who they are while each of them deals with their own personal demons. I instantly loved Hannah with her spitfire attitude and her fierce loyalty. Sam is an endearing character; he truly loves his friends even though he’s also not perfect. Dickie is probably my favorite character. There’s just something about a bookworm I can’t resist. Although I think the story was the exact length it needed to be, I was sad that it ended so soon! This was a wonderful read, and I highly recommend it.
February 27, 2016
I loved this story!
I was born in the 80's but I do remember most of the things that were talked about in Jessie's Girl. It was fun to be transported back in time that was before texting and Facebook and instagram (and goodreads.. lol).
The story was a tale of friends to lovers. These friends had feelings for each other for so long but neither one acted on them until it was almost too late. They found out they liked each other during the summer between high school and heading off to higher education.
Cute story of a slow burn love that the characters hid for so long, and then they were able to lay it all on the line and explore their new found love for each other.
I was born in the 80's but I do remember most of the things that were talked about in Jessie's Girl. It was fun to be transported back in time that was before texting and Facebook and instagram (and goodreads.. lol).
The story was a tale of friends to lovers. These friends had feelings for each other for so long but neither one acted on them until it was almost too late. They found out they liked each other during the summer between high school and heading off to higher education.
Cute story of a slow burn love that the characters hid for so long, and then they were able to lay it all on the line and explore their new found love for each other.
February 25, 2016
Another winning story from Lindy Zart. I will say that I am not always an enthusiast about short stories just because the ones I have read felt like more should have been said. However, as those who are familiar with Lindy Zart's writing, this short story left nothing to wonder about behind. Once again her characters are well developed, the plot of the story is clear, and the details are enough that the reader is getting a complete picture of what is happening during the story. Although I am a child of the 1960's, this '80's story was great in my memory anyway. I totally enjoyed this story and highly recommend it!
March 7, 2016
Love this book.
This book is a cute reminder of my younger days. I loved this song back then. Love all the reminders of young love and the things we did without cellphones and such. This road trip is fun and hilarious for all the characters. This group of id's is a mix of every type of personality. Jessie it in and wild and doesn't want to grow up. Hannah and Sam have known each other as friends but don't see what is between them. Dickie is the shy quiet geek and Cat is the blonde cute type. The ups and downs on the road trip is fun a d hilarious. Brings back memories from my youth. Loved it.
This book is a cute reminder of my younger days. I loved this song back then. Love all the reminders of young love and the things we did without cellphones and such. This road trip is fun and hilarious for all the characters. This group of id's is a mix of every type of personality. Jessie it in and wild and doesn't want to grow up. Hannah and Sam have known each other as friends but don't see what is between them. Dickie is the shy quiet geek and Cat is the blonde cute type. The ups and downs on the road trip is fun a d hilarious. Brings back memories from my youth. Loved it.
April 27, 2016
I didn't like this one as much as the previous one in the series. I think it was because of the single character POV. Still, I do understand why it was needed. If we got the perspective of the other characters, like Hannah, for instance, a lot of the plot would be spoiled early on. Also I really disliked the character of Jessie, even after he admitted that a lot of his behavior was wrong.
Still, I enjoyed parts of the story. It had the feel of a John Cusack movie. I really liked the character of Catherine, wished I got to hear more about her. Like the previous one, I also love how the clever way that the song title was incorporated into the plot.
Still, I enjoyed parts of the story. It had the feel of a John Cusack movie. I really liked the character of Catherine, wished I got to hear more about her. Like the previous one, I also love how the clever way that the song title was incorporated into the plot.
April 30, 2016
I enjoyed Jessie's Girl. This is a fun, 80's-set novella filled with fun adventure and great use of era dialogue. Zart doesn't waste any space with this one, as it is far shorter than her other books at around 30,000 words. All of the characters in the book are so exceptionally diverse in personality and looks, but somehow have a dynamic friendship with one another. The inclusion of Jessie's new girl, Catherine Tate, throws a wrench in the core group's plans for a road trip.
The only thing I would have liked more of was visual imagery; I got an idea of what everything looked like, but I wanted more.
The only thing I would have liked more of was visual imagery; I got an idea of what everything looked like, but I wanted more.
June 17, 2016
The book from the beginning is beyond obvious. Look past that, I'm sure you didn't start reading because you were looking for adventure or action but a flashback of our youth in the eighties. The vocabulary makes me cringe. Did we really say those sayings back then? Mind you, I was a kid, not a teen but still. With the overly hairspray teased hair and the Maimi Vice look I can picture how Sam and Jessie look. It is a very fast read, adorable, cute book that will make you reminisce. Love this series!
July 29, 2016
This second book in the New Adult Mix is a very good read. I love the author’s take on the Jessie’s Girl writing prompt. It is well imagined.
The foundation of the story is built on a post high school road trip. The rest of the story is character driven. Four unlikely, life-long friends (plus one) discover things about themselves, and each other, as they travel together. Although all of the characters drive aspects of the story, it is told through only one point of view. It is impressive that author Lindy Zart achieves this seamlessly.
I am looking forward to 1982. 5 stars
The foundation of the story is built on a post high school road trip. The rest of the story is character driven. Four unlikely, life-long friends (plus one) discover things about themselves, and each other, as they travel together. Although all of the characters drive aspects of the story, it is told through only one point of view. It is impressive that author Lindy Zart achieves this seamlessly.
I am looking forward to 1982. 5 stars
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