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Plain Vanilla
Despite her quirky name and equally quirky family, 16-year-old Tempest Juan knows she's ordinary. After reading a comment on Facebook which likened her to vanilla ice cream, Tempest decides she has to do something about it or be forever branded as plain, lukewarm, and well, vanilla. It doesn't help that the comment was made by Paco Lorenzo, her cousin’s cute friend (no longer cute in her book!). When she happens upon a book of dares, she decides to attempt each one, no matter how hard. This is her personality at stake, after all. But somehow, Paco, the cause of all this, finds a way to be at every dare Tempest attempts, confusing her and forcing her to question what’s really going on inside her heart.
56 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2016
5 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Ines Bautista-Yao
20 books148 followersReading and writing are close to Ines Bautista Yao's heart ever since she was a child. She graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University with a degree in AB Communication Arts. She has been a teacher at the Assumption College San Lorenzo and the Ateneo de Manila University's English department.
Her debut novel One Crazy Summer was first penned in 2007 when she was pregnant with her first daughter Addie. Being a mother has taken much of Ines' time so she was only able to write 13 pages of her novel. She completed her story in April 2011, while three-year-old Addie was sleeping and inspiration struck her again. Two months later her story was complete. After eight months, her dream of publishing her own book came true. The book was only launched last January 26, 2012, but Ines is already writing her second novel.
Most readers can remember Ines as the former editor-in-chief of K-Zone Magazine and Candy Magazine . At present, Ines is working as an editor of Summit Books. She is also married to photographer Marc Yao, whom she says she consults whenever she's stuck in the middle of a story she's writing.
Sources:
One Crazy Summer Author Ines Bautista Yao on Juggling Writing and Motherhood by Belle Yambao
Spotlight on Filipino Authors: Ines Bautista-Yao
Her debut novel One Crazy Summer was first penned in 2007 when she was pregnant with her first daughter Addie. Being a mother has taken much of Ines' time so she was only able to write 13 pages of her novel. She completed her story in April 2011, while three-year-old Addie was sleeping and inspiration struck her again. Two months later her story was complete. After eight months, her dream of publishing her own book came true. The book was only launched last January 26, 2012, but Ines is already writing her second novel.
Most readers can remember Ines as the former editor-in-chief of K-Zone Magazine and Candy Magazine . At present, Ines is working as an editor of Summit Books. She is also married to photographer Marc Yao, whom she says she consults whenever she's stuck in the middle of a story she's writing.
Sources:
One Crazy Summer Author Ines Bautista Yao on Juggling Writing and Motherhood by Belle Yambao
Spotlight on Filipino Authors: Ines Bautista-Yao
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 20, 2017
THIS WAS SO CUTE!!! So cute in fact, I pretty much wish it had been a full length novel. All the characters were lovely, as were the romantic, family and platonic relationships. I loved the Manila setting and the Filipino culture woven throughout. This was the perfect, fun, adorable summer read to get me through a holiday traffic jam. I'd 100% recommend it!
August 14, 2017
Ines Bautista-Yao is easily one of my favorite authors. All the YA stories I've read by her, she's truly been able to capture falling in love in your teens and the voices of her characters are so authentic.
"Tempest, you are a Juan. We're all different. It's what makes our family special."
"But not really. I'm the least Juan-like! So let me do this, okay?" Tempest pleaded. "At the very least, it will make me feel better about myself."
At one point I had tears because I have felt the same way as Tempest, being the "plain" one in the family, and it was refreshing to see so much of myself in her character. This book was everything I love about the YA genre and color me kilig because Tempest and Paco were the sweetest! <3
"Tempest, you are a Juan. We're all different. It's what makes our family special."
"But not really. I'm the least Juan-like! So let me do this, okay?" Tempest pleaded. "At the very least, it will make me feel better about myself."
At one point I had tears because I have felt the same way as Tempest, being the "plain" one in the family, and it was refreshing to see so much of myself in her character. This book was everything I love about the YA genre and color me kilig because Tempest and Paco were the sweetest! <3
February 13, 2017
This is a short story about a "normal" girl named Tempest and how she will discover herself with the help of her crazy cousins, the Juan's and a guy named Paco.
PLOT
The plot is perfectly written, you can see the Pinoy (Philippine) touch in this story. As I was reading this I can really feel the connection between me and the characters, the author never fails to amaze me with her works, each and every one of it has it's own unique "flavor"! This story has it's teenage vibe to it, it was just perfect for those who are trying to find themselves... Maybe you can find yourself while reading this novel :)
CHARACTERS
I LOVE THEM! They're fun and very likable especially the main character you can easily relate to her, you can understand her frustrations in a very not annoying way. Tempest is just our ordinary girl living with her "crazy" family, the Juan's, crazy means they're doing things like there's no limitations all the fun stuff that Tempest has been missing out all her life. But then she meets Paco, the guy who made Tempest think twice about herself, about who she really is and what she can really do. Paco's character is very simple, he's sweet in his own ways. Her cousins, Marga & Clara are very lovable they have their own personality that just really fits with Tempest's. I had the most wonderful time with them, especially when they were doing the DARES! Those dares that really helped Tempest show her true self, it was nice in a way that they were all having a good time and it was helping someone to get out of her comfort zone.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
All in all, I really loved and enjoyed this short story! Yet again, another great work by Ines B. Yao! The way she writes her novels AHHH I just flew through the pages, it's fun and cute. This novel made me realize some things, that it's not that bad to try different things once in a while, maybe try a new flavor of ice cream (Bacon & Salted Caramel, Red Pepper Chocolate flavor), try a different hobby or go restaurant hopping, maybe travel alone all those things that you're scared to do. Maybe give it a try sometimes? Go ahead and make your own bucket list! :) I RECOMMEND THIS FOR EVERYONE TO READ!
PLOT
The plot is perfectly written, you can see the Pinoy (Philippine) touch in this story. As I was reading this I can really feel the connection between me and the characters, the author never fails to amaze me with her works, each and every one of it has it's own unique "flavor"! This story has it's teenage vibe to it, it was just perfect for those who are trying to find themselves... Maybe you can find yourself while reading this novel :)
CHARACTERS
I LOVE THEM! They're fun and very likable especially the main character you can easily relate to her, you can understand her frustrations in a very not annoying way. Tempest is just our ordinary girl living with her "crazy" family, the Juan's, crazy means they're doing things like there's no limitations all the fun stuff that Tempest has been missing out all her life. But then she meets Paco, the guy who made Tempest think twice about herself, about who she really is and what she can really do. Paco's character is very simple, he's sweet in his own ways. Her cousins, Marga & Clara are very lovable they have their own personality that just really fits with Tempest's. I had the most wonderful time with them, especially when they were doing the DARES! Those dares that really helped Tempest show her true self, it was nice in a way that they were all having a good time and it was helping someone to get out of her comfort zone.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
All in all, I really loved and enjoyed this short story! Yet again, another great work by Ines B. Yao! The way she writes her novels AHHH I just flew through the pages, it's fun and cute. This novel made me realize some things, that it's not that bad to try different things once in a while, maybe try a new flavor of ice cream (Bacon & Salted Caramel, Red Pepper Chocolate flavor), try a different hobby or go restaurant hopping, maybe travel alone all those things that you're scared to do. Maybe give it a try sometimes? Go ahead and make your own bucket list! :) I RECOMMEND THIS FOR EVERYONE TO READ!
March 25, 2017
3 stars for the writing, 4 stars for making me go awwwww and making me feel good. Also, for being the first YA in forever that I finished.
I've been telling my friend Sue that Filipinos and Malays have a lot in common, so I live vicariously through Pinoy YA for rep. I love the Juan family dynamic, the friendship between Tempest and her cousins Marga and Clara, and of course the sweet moments between Tempest and Paco. I especially adore the ice-cream definitions I smothered my face with my pillow. TOO CUTE.
The only thing I dislike is that whole thing with Cindy; the bitchy girl thing isn't necessary, and Cindy's dialogues felt a little cartoonish to me, but otherwise this is an entertaining read. Highly recommended if you need a light-hearted fluffy read to pass time.
I've been telling my friend Sue that Filipinos and Malays have a lot in common, so I live vicariously through Pinoy YA for rep. I love the Juan family dynamic, the friendship between Tempest and her cousins Marga and Clara, and of course the sweet moments between Tempest and Paco. I especially adore the ice-cream definitions I smothered my face with my pillow. TOO CUTE.
The only thing I dislike is that whole thing with Cindy; the bitchy girl thing isn't necessary, and Cindy's dialogues felt a little cartoonish to me, but otherwise this is an entertaining read. Highly recommended if you need a light-hearted fluffy read to pass time.
April 1, 2016
I have previously read Only A Kiss by the same author and I really liked it. So consider me excited when I heard about this book. The thing about Ines' way of writing is that it's very Filipino so it's close to the heart.
The story was about Tempest, a quirky and adorable young lady who was called "vanilla" by her crush, Paco, so she put it upon herself to try to change it by attempting to do everything in a certain book of dares that she came across. Only to be more confused and distracted by Paco.
Tempest was one of the freshest characters I have ever read. It was so easy to get into her character. She's close to her family and friends. Paco' almost the same too! And he's really sweet so it wasn't hard to like him.
I adored the writing style, though it may seem simple, but it was really enjoyable! It didn't make me swoon that hard but I do commend the effort that was put into writing it! Overall, the book was a fun experience and I'm looking forward to reading more from the author.
The story was about Tempest, a quirky and adorable young lady who was called "vanilla" by her crush, Paco, so she put it upon herself to try to change it by attempting to do everything in a certain book of dares that she came across. Only to be more confused and distracted by Paco.
Tempest was one of the freshest characters I have ever read. It was so easy to get into her character. She's close to her family and friends. Paco' almost the same too! And he's really sweet so it wasn't hard to like him.
I adored the writing style, though it may seem simple, but it was really enjoyable! It didn't make me swoon that hard but I do commend the effort that was put into writing it! Overall, the book was a fun experience and I'm looking forward to reading more from the author.
February 6, 2016
This is a cute short story. Tempest is a likable, believable character. I think my favorite part of this author's work is how genuine her teens seem without becoming unlikable. They do have quirks and faults and an immature take on the world, but they aren't stupid or ridiculously angsty like a lot of modern teens. I found the ending touching.
Parental concerns: some mention of alcohol consumption by under-aged drinkers.
I received a copy of this story in return for my honest review.
August 27, 2023
Rep: Filipino mcs
February 6, 2018
I've never attempted to read a Young Adult (YA) book before and figured I'd try it out to see what all the fuss is about. Voila! Plain Vanilla came in sight amidst a table of YA books, I looked for a synopsis that applied to me despite the surpassed age range. The storyline reminded me of the same vibes of Sweet Valley or Babysitters Club set in Manila. A crazy family, supportive friends, a girl and of course the boy crush. It all seems predictable as you read the book but as I read the last pages, this story is truly apt for girls today. Social pressures of being different and to stand out growing up has always been there but more evident in this generation. I miss the simplicity of a good set of friends and outdoor summer activities that was just clean fun. Such nostalgia echoed in Plain Vanilla and also opened up the awkward painful moments I too experienced when I was a teenager, Tempest, the main character reminded me of myself. When you feel overpowered and outshined by those around you either through beauty, brains and skill, you can't help but to feel empty and plain. The story sends out a simple and needed message to girls/women to always be themselves no matter who they're with. The boy you liked may or may not like you then but know that your character was seen in all honesty and besides, as you grow older, those kind of boys have a way of remembering you and somehow come back in your life so why stress and change yourself. A short yet apt read for this generation.
August 2, 2017
I’ll keep this review short and sweet because that’s what this was, short but super sweet!
I enjoyed it a lot because it is reminiscent of American YA books I used to bring home from the library and yet the characters and settings are distinctly Filipino. And I share Tempest’s troubles with having an unusual name, awful nicknames is sitting right on top. :)
The list of dares is an interesting plot device and I loved that while not all are really ‘daring’ in my opinion, all of it was enough to gently coax Tempest out of hiding. Paco’s explanation for the Vanilla comment is a little extra of him to me, but it’s a satisfying ending and I accept it.
Plain Vanilla’s romance is perfect and not plain at all. I didn’t get too kilig (because I’m old and grumpy) but I can imagine the younger readers thoroughly enjoying this short story.
P.S. It’s a shame summer is over this year because my cousins, nephews and nieces would absolutely love the dare suggestions at the end of this book, but there’s always next year.
4 of 5 Stars. Can I get a Margarita spin-off? Please? Haha!
*This review also appears on my personal blog: bentchcreates.tumblr.com
I enjoyed it a lot because it is reminiscent of American YA books I used to bring home from the library and yet the characters and settings are distinctly Filipino. And I share Tempest’s troubles with having an unusual name, awful nicknames is sitting right on top. :)
The list of dares is an interesting plot device and I loved that while not all are really ‘daring’ in my opinion, all of it was enough to gently coax Tempest out of hiding. Paco’s explanation for the Vanilla comment is a little extra of him to me, but it’s a satisfying ending and I accept it.
Plain Vanilla’s romance is perfect and not plain at all. I didn’t get too kilig (because I’m old and grumpy) but I can imagine the younger readers thoroughly enjoying this short story.
P.S. It’s a shame summer is over this year because my cousins, nephews and nieces would absolutely love the dare suggestions at the end of this book, but there’s always next year.
4 of 5 Stars. Can I get a Margarita spin-off? Please? Haha!
*This review also appears on my personal blog: bentchcreates.tumblr.com
August 19, 2018
You have to let the energy of life flow through you. Let things happen, let the cards fall where they may. Stop trying to control everything.”
I was looking for a short story or novella that is easy to read and that will help me clean my reading palate, before I start reading some fast pace stories or the heavy drama book I was planning to pick up next. So I'm glad I decided to try reading this ebook because it did not disappoint. It was fun and a cute story.
I love all the Filipino culture depicted in this book. Yes, I miss hearing those familiar Filipino terms/words like baon, angas, Lola, and even Yaya. It's like walking down memory lane of my younger years. My family is not like the Juans but I always remember the parties my parents and family used to have. It was fun and, yes, the costumes and food were kinda like the Juans.
The protagonist, Tempest Juan also reminds me of a friend I used to know in high school. I'm so happy I found this author. I'm definitely reading more of her books. I'm giving this 4 stars out of 5.
I was looking for a short story or novella that is easy to read and that will help me clean my reading palate, before I start reading some fast pace stories or the heavy drama book I was planning to pick up next. So I'm glad I decided to try reading this ebook because it did not disappoint. It was fun and a cute story.
I love all the Filipino culture depicted in this book. Yes, I miss hearing those familiar Filipino terms/words like baon, angas, Lola, and even Yaya. It's like walking down memory lane of my younger years. My family is not like the Juans but I always remember the parties my parents and family used to have. It was fun and, yes, the costumes and food were kinda like the Juans.
The protagonist, Tempest Juan also reminds me of a friend I used to know in high school. I'm so happy I found this author. I'm definitely reading more of her books. I'm giving this 4 stars out of 5.
July 23, 2017
So cute omg I need more!!!
May 9, 2018
Soooo cute.
Perfect little story to read while in a reading slump :)
Perfect little story to read while in a reading slump :)
October 10, 2018
Sweet
This is a sweet story. Tempest has the usual self doubt, but by challenging herself figures out a way out. Nothing angst, but a comforting story of friendship and young love.
This is a sweet story. Tempest has the usual self doubt, but by challenging herself figures out a way out. Nothing angst, but a comforting story of friendship and young love.
October 16, 2019
Very cute. Just read it for half a day. Very relaxing read.
May 19, 2020
This was cute, short, and sweet. I wish it were longer than 50 pages and more fleshed out but for what it was it was a fun time.
July 19, 2020
i really liked this a lot. sure, it was a bit cliche and has bit of stereotypes but i saw myself quite a lot in here and it added to the enjoyment factor lmao. i hope to read more of her books.
November 27, 2020
A cute, short, fluffy read. I think this had full-novel potential, and was a little sad to miss more details on scenes that were only mentioned.
February 7, 2017
Fun, sweet romance novella with a lovely couple at the centre who I really liked together. Tempest's family are great too and I found this to be a quick and cute read. Would definitely read more by Ines Bautista-Yao!
February 12, 2016
ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted at b i n i b i n i
OMG eeeee! The Queen of Philippine YA Romance (WHOA LEVELS!!) has done her magic again! And maaan, I feel so freaking happy reading this I feel like my face is going to split in two! I highly recommend all of Ines Bautista-Yao's books if you want to feel delighted after reading a romance book or if you need a refresher from the huge selection of contemporary NA romances out there. Her books will always deliver---that I am sure of.
Tempest Juan is the normal one among the crazy Juan clan. She's pretty ordinary compared to her cousins Clara and Margarita. She was having fun blending with them though because of course, they're family, and best friends, as well. So when a Paco Lorenzo, Marga's best friend, came crashing along to their family event, she was kind of confused because what guy would hangout with a girl like... her? She's basically a nobody but she didn't mind the fun she was having with Paco's company. Until she found out he called her a vanilla. The boring, not special at all girl that she was. With that, she willed herself to do things which were so not her to prove something of herself (that's what she thought). But only if Paco wouldn't always be around looking like a stalker.
Paco Lorenzo is one of the sweetest characters I've read in a YA. He's been a constant companion to Margarita that others may think he's a lost Juan cousin. Or they're a thing. Only, he only has eyes for a certain Juan. If only that certain Juan could see that.
Tempest Juan. Oh gosh. I love the girl! Because plain and simple---she's relatable and I love the fact that she's a developed character. I was actually scared that she'd turned out to be a flat one but yay we she came full circle and am cheering on her until now! Let's not forget Paco! He's the sweetest if not the second most annoying character. Haha! But he actually made me smile so I guess he's in the roster of my Sweet and Cute BBFs. (Let's pretend I'm 17, okay?)
The secondary characters, Clara, Margarita and Alfonso, were also crazy hilarious! Hmm, I think I'd like Ines to write Marga's story. She's one of those characters that held my attention because of her frank attitude. I like her already!
Overall, Plain Vanilla is one pint-sized feels mixed with the signature Ines Bautista-Yao warm, comfy narrative, witty banter between equally charming characters and fluffing sweet romance that sure is going to melt your heart. It's also fascinating because the truly Filipino vibe like the presence of family, even the annoying sibling relationship, crazy cousins was very evident. I love everything about this book! It's light, fun, well-paced and so very vanilla. (And nope, that doesn't even mean boring! At all! Read the story to find out! ;) You're welcome!)
Originally posted at b i n i b i n i
"It also means you fit right in. With me."
OMG eeeee! The Queen of Philippine YA Romance (WHOA LEVELS!!) has done her magic again! And maaan, I feel so freaking happy reading this I feel like my face is going to split in two! I highly recommend all of Ines Bautista-Yao's books if you want to feel delighted after reading a romance book or if you need a refresher from the huge selection of contemporary NA romances out there. Her books will always deliver---that I am sure of.
Tempest Juan is the normal one among the crazy Juan clan. She's pretty ordinary compared to her cousins Clara and Margarita. She was having fun blending with them though because of course, they're family, and best friends, as well. So when a Paco Lorenzo, Marga's best friend, came crashing along to their family event, she was kind of confused because what guy would hangout with a girl like... her? She's basically a nobody but she didn't mind the fun she was having with Paco's company. Until she found out he called her a vanilla. The boring, not special at all girl that she was. With that, she willed herself to do things which were so not her to prove something of herself (that's what she thought). But only if Paco wouldn't always be around looking like a stalker.
Paco Lorenzo is one of the sweetest characters I've read in a YA. He's been a constant companion to Margarita that others may think he's a lost Juan cousin. Or they're a thing. Only, he only has eyes for a certain Juan. If only that certain Juan could see that.
Tempest Juan. Oh gosh. I love the girl! Because plain and simple---she's relatable and I love the fact that she's a developed character. I was actually scared that she'd turned out to be a flat one but yay we she came full circle and am cheering on her until now! Let's not forget Paco! He's the sweetest if not the second most annoying character. Haha! But he actually made me smile so I guess he's in the roster of my Sweet and Cute BBFs. (Let's pretend I'm 17, okay?)
The secondary characters, Clara, Margarita and Alfonso, were also crazy hilarious! Hmm, I think I'd like Ines to write Marga's story. She's one of those characters that held my attention because of her frank attitude. I like her already!
Overall, Plain Vanilla is one pint-sized feels mixed with the signature Ines Bautista-Yao warm, comfy narrative, witty banter between equally charming characters and fluffing sweet romance that sure is going to melt your heart. It's also fascinating because the truly Filipino vibe like the presence of family, even the annoying sibling relationship, crazy cousins was very evident. I love everything about this book! It's light, fun, well-paced and so very vanilla. (And nope, that doesn't even mean boring! At all! Read the story to find out! ;) You're welcome!)
February 12, 2016
I read "Plain Vanilla" in one morning on my way to work and and finished it in less than an hour. This was actually a well-told short story, even if the protagonist isn't necessarily the kind of character I would align with.
Plain Vanilla is about young girls coming of age, set in the world of daring. The author highlights well the isolation, pressure, confusion, angst, and experiences by all teenage girls. The thing about being a teen is the whole adventure of it all but Tempest is different. She's plain like vanilla.
Being an 'onlies' I know absolutely nothing about a teenage girls struggling to keep up with a big crazy family. The author, on the other hand, either she's with one or has done prodigious research into the subject.
Tempest met a boy named Paco, her cousin Marga's bff, during Valentine's day celebration of the Juan family. Tempest has become strangely attracted to Paco but after reading a comment Paco made on their picture on Facebook calling her 'vanilla', the resulting confusion has her rethinking most of her life choices. She confronts her preconceived notions about how she fits into the world around her and decides to attempt each dare she happens to stumble upon a book.
I thought it was worthwhile seeing how she changes from someone who is predominantly plain to someone who has the world on her tail.
It was halted when Paco revealed to her the true meaning of 'vanilla' for him.
Of course, I loved it. Just the right tone all the way through.
This tale was about as easy to swallow as sundae. Overall, this was a quick read, and I enjoyed it for what it offered.
Plain Vanilla is about young girls coming of age, set in the world of daring. The author highlights well the isolation, pressure, confusion, angst, and experiences by all teenage girls. The thing about being a teen is the whole adventure of it all but Tempest is different. She's plain like vanilla.
Being an 'onlies' I know absolutely nothing about a teenage girls struggling to keep up with a big crazy family. The author, on the other hand, either she's with one or has done prodigious research into the subject.
Tempest met a boy named Paco, her cousin Marga's bff, during Valentine's day celebration of the Juan family. Tempest has become strangely attracted to Paco but after reading a comment Paco made on their picture on Facebook calling her 'vanilla', the resulting confusion has her rethinking most of her life choices. She confronts her preconceived notions about how she fits into the world around her and decides to attempt each dare she happens to stumble upon a book.
I thought it was worthwhile seeing how she changes from someone who is predominantly plain to someone who has the world on her tail.
It was halted when Paco revealed to her the true meaning of 'vanilla' for him.
Of course, I loved it. Just the right tone all the way through.
This tale was about as easy to swallow as sundae. Overall, this was a quick read, and I enjoyed it for what it offered.
February 14, 2016
Read more book reviews at The Perfictionist.
Despite its length, I think this is one well-written story about young love. This is actually my second young-adult story from Ines Bautista Yao, and she remains consistent in keeping her voice young and relatable, which is something I really appreciate.
Truth is, I got a little confused with the story when I began reading because I thought 'Plain Vanilla' meant something else. LOL. The fault was entirely my own, and partly because FSOG has given the term 'vanilla' a different meaning. It was funny because I got confused and thought, 'how in the hell is there going to be a love scene in this story?! WTF?!' When I finally recovered, I had the urge to smack myself senseless for my sheer stupidity. haha!
Anyway, I really enjoyed this Valentine offering! Tempest (Pesty! Great nickname, by the way.) is a really charming character even if she thinks she's boring and normal. I'd rather describe her as stable and grounded. She might not see herself this way, but I think her cousins did a great job at keeping Pesty from the brink of depression and hopelessness.
I don't have a crazy family as Pesty, so I can't say I can relate, but the way her family was described in this story was downright hilarious. I couldn't help but chuckle and smile while I was reading.
All in all, this was a really great story, which I wished my tween self could have had an opportunity to read.
January 22, 2021
Actual rating: 4.5
“Let things happen, let the cards fall where they may. Stop trying to control everything.”⠀
I remember writing an introduce-yourself paper back in college entitled “Vanilla Ailla” after reading this five years ago (tour stop + review here: https://bit.ly/2XU66qv) Obviously, it centered about being plain, ordinary, and well - vanilla.⠀
⠀
But true to the book I was inspired with, it also came with acknowledging how important it is to be confident in your own skin; how you don’t really have to fit in with the cool kids for people to appreciate you for who you are ✨⠀
⠀
I’m just turning 23 this weekend but man, it feels so long since I’ve been in the “province of the young” that I’ve forgotten what being sixteen felt like haha! I can say that re-reading Plain Vanilla made me remember - the sweet, the bitter, and everything else in between 🍦❤⠀
“Let things happen, let the cards fall where they may. Stop trying to control everything.”⠀
I remember writing an introduce-yourself paper back in college entitled “Vanilla Ailla” after reading this five years ago (tour stop + review here: https://bit.ly/2XU66qv) Obviously, it centered about being plain, ordinary, and well - vanilla.⠀
⠀
But true to the book I was inspired with, it also came with acknowledging how important it is to be confident in your own skin; how you don’t really have to fit in with the cool kids for people to appreciate you for who you are ✨⠀
⠀
I’m just turning 23 this weekend but man, it feels so long since I’ve been in the “province of the young” that I’ve forgotten what being sixteen felt like haha! I can say that re-reading Plain Vanilla made me remember - the sweet, the bitter, and everything else in between 🍦❤⠀
February 11, 2016
I read Plain Vanilla when it first came out at BuqoYA Reads, and I'm glad I had a reason to read it again!
As a girl with nine siblings and a family (almost) as crazy as the Juans, I understood how Tempy (best name ever) felt when she was labelled as the boring one. Yikes. I loved the idea of going through a list of dares, although some of them didn't feel very daring. The one in the school though, I can totally imagine! Tempest was strong, brave, to the point that it made her hide herself away. But I liked that about her. Paco's reasoning for calling her 'vanilla' was a little meh to me, but I believed him in the end.
It's a definite must read for the younger teen set, and I can't wait to read more from Ines, as always. :)
As a girl with nine siblings and a family (almost) as crazy as the Juans, I understood how Tempy (best name ever) felt when she was labelled as the boring one. Yikes. I loved the idea of going through a list of dares, although some of them didn't feel very daring. The one in the school though, I can totally imagine! Tempest was strong, brave, to the point that it made her hide herself away. But I liked that about her. Paco's reasoning for calling her 'vanilla' was a little meh to me, but I believed him in the end.
It's a definite must read for the younger teen set, and I can't wait to read more from Ines, as always. :)
September 21, 2016
Plain Vanilla is such a cute novella. It has the summer-y vibe even though it is not summer in the book. It has a cute boy, some great dares brought to you by a Book of Dares, family that supports you always and a girl who wants to fit in more with her family.
~ It's a Filipino romance, an #ownvoices. It's amazing and I love when I recognize some words and food names because some of them are also used here in México and the food you can also find it here, like champurrado!
~ Paco Lorenzo, the cute shy guy who is head over heels for Tempest
~ JUAN COUSINS ARE MY EVERYTHING. I want to meet them and hang out with them please
~ It's like super short: 55 pages, I think? So you'll finish it super quick and love it with me
~ This book is fabulous
~ It's a Filipino romance, an #ownvoices. It's amazing and I love when I recognize some words and food names because some of them are also used here in México and the food you can also find it here, like champurrado!
~ Paco Lorenzo, the cute shy guy who is head over heels for Tempest
~ JUAN COUSINS ARE MY EVERYTHING. I want to meet them and hang out with them please
~ It's like super short: 55 pages, I think? So you'll finish it super quick and love it with me
~ This book is fabulous
February 7, 2016
The story kicks off with Tempest Juan feeling like normal is the new abnormal when it comes to her and her funky, crazy family. It quickly sets the tone of the book, and also gets me to fall in love with Tempest just as easily. She had me cheering for her as she performed dare after dare from that Book of Dares (not pleased with the one in the school yard though. What will the teachers say??? LOL). I loved the adventures Temp bravely took on. With each one, she tried to be a just a tiny bit crazier, and hopefully a tad bit less vanilla. Until, well, better you read it to find out.
And oh yes, Paco <3
And oh yes, Paco <3
February 10, 2016
I'm always so excited when Ines Bautista-Yao comes out with a new book! She's one of my go-to authors when I need a feel-good, well-written story about young love. Her writing is so authentic and enjoyable, it has all the goodness of melted butter on warm bread. :D Plain Vanilla is totally not plain but like vanilla ice cream, it's very sweet. The main characters and supporting cast come to life on the pages, and the dialogue is fun and believable. Best of all, readers of all ages will enjoy reading the list of dares at the end of the book (what a great idea to include that!).
Thanks to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2016
Plain Vanilla is so not plain, unless you mean plain delight! Well written, well scripted, good characters, fast pace, nice tension and as brightly coloured as the Philippines themselves, this is a very satisfying YA romance with an ethnic flavour - that is to say, tasty! This is, as advertised, quite short, but it's longer than a short story; call it a novelette. Enjoy!
February 14, 2016
This is a fun sweet romance about a wonderful girl named Tempest who sees herself as "boring" compared to her flamboyant cousins, hence the title. How she challenges herself is endearing, and all the supporting characters make this a sparkling story. And then there's Paco, who is multi-faceted and loveable, and you can help but hope these two get together! I love the list of "dares" in the back and the glossary of words used in the Philippines. Highly recommended for teens and used-to-be-teens!
February 9, 2016
Reading this made me wish that there were already Bautista-Yao books when I was growing up. The writing style reminded me of the Sweet Valley Twins series, which I collected--sweet, kilig, and in tune with the YA voice. It's a refreshing break because sometimes, you just want to curl up with a book that will show you the beginnings of young love, minus the angst and complicated issues. For sure, my tween self would've also collected her books, hungrily waiting for the next installment.
February 24, 2016
I have now read a few of this authors books and I must say I'm a huge fan! This story did not disappoint either! Ines has a way with words -- her dialogue is natural and believable and she captures the emotions of a young heart with such clarity and simplicity that once I start reading I cannot stop. Five stars seems barely enough.
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