What do you think?
Rate this book
Something More #1-2
Something More: Normal / ReCap / Okay
NORMAL (Book 1)
It's the kind of situation most people would dread. Starting at a new high school, in the middle of my senior year, in a new town, in a new state. I know no one. No one knows me. That's what I'm counting on.
A year ago, Aurora "Rory" Pine was just a normal teenage girl - just as sweet and naive as the fairy tale princess she was named after.
But this isn't a year ago.
Rory is broken, and suffering from a new debilitating anxiety disorder, wrought with precarious triggers, she moves across the country to escape the source of her troubles. Her plan is anonymity, but that's easier said than achieved for the new girl having a panic episode outside of calculus. The worst part? There's a witness - and a gorgeous one at that.
Sam is a walking trigger for Rory. Incredibly handsome, built like the star athlete he obviously is, and undoubtedly popular, Sam outwardly represents everything Rory despises about high school. But as the fates keep throwing them together, a connection sparks that neither ever expected, and certainly can’t ignore.
But Sam has issues too, and Rory's past won't just stay in the damned past. When friendship evolves into something deeper, can a girl utterly destroyed by the worst kind of betrayal and a boy battling demons of his own ever have a normal relationship? Is that even what they want? Find out in NORMAL, a gritty story of trust and abuse, heartbreak and salvation, and if they're lucky - love. This is not a flowery romance - not for the faint of heart.
ReCAP (Book 1.5)
Rory and Sam fell in love in NORMAL, and we all fell in love right along with them. Now see it all unfold through Sam's eyes, and learn just how the new girl with anxiety issues stole the heart of the gorgeous heartthrob, and turned his world upside down.
You already heard the story. The one of how Rory and I fell in love, supposedly, even if she couldn't handle it in the end. You know how it all went.
Or you think you do.
You only know her side. But I have my own point of view, and even Rory couldn't know my thoughts in those few months it took for her to go from being a stranger to my whole entire world.
Every moment is permanently ingrained in my memory. In my goddamned soul. From the moment I stumbled upon the girl panicking outside of calculus - the one with the tight little body, the angelic face, and the fierce attitude - to the night she abandoned me in Miami. It was the sum of those moments that changed me irrevocably.
Our story isn't over. I won't let it be. But this, this is what happened so far, the way I saw it.
I'm Cap. Or Sam, to Rory. And this is my story.
OKAY (Book 2)
After the horrors she’s survived over the past year, Rory never expected to find the one thing she certainly wasn’t looking for – love. But after the painful realization that her past has left her a dangerous liability to the person she cares for the most, she finally understands that for her and Sam, love means letting go.
Can two people hopelessly in love ever revert back to just friends? Neither Rory nor Sam knows for sure. But the one thing they do know – it’s the only choice they have.
As Rory recovers from a devastating assault, Sam will do anything to make sure it never happens again. But how far will he go to keep her safe? Their choices will change everything, and they will either bring them back together or destroy them irrevocably.
It's the kind of situation most people would dread. Starting at a new high school, in the middle of my senior year, in a new town, in a new state. I know no one. No one knows me. That's what I'm counting on.
A year ago, Aurora "Rory" Pine was just a normal teenage girl - just as sweet and naive as the fairy tale princess she was named after.
But this isn't a year ago.
Rory is broken, and suffering from a new debilitating anxiety disorder, wrought with precarious triggers, she moves across the country to escape the source of her troubles. Her plan is anonymity, but that's easier said than achieved for the new girl having a panic episode outside of calculus. The worst part? There's a witness - and a gorgeous one at that.
Sam is a walking trigger for Rory. Incredibly handsome, built like the star athlete he obviously is, and undoubtedly popular, Sam outwardly represents everything Rory despises about high school. But as the fates keep throwing them together, a connection sparks that neither ever expected, and certainly can’t ignore.
But Sam has issues too, and Rory's past won't just stay in the damned past. When friendship evolves into something deeper, can a girl utterly destroyed by the worst kind of betrayal and a boy battling demons of his own ever have a normal relationship? Is that even what they want? Find out in NORMAL, a gritty story of trust and abuse, heartbreak and salvation, and if they're lucky - love. This is not a flowery romance - not for the faint of heart.
ReCAP (Book 1.5)
Rory and Sam fell in love in NORMAL, and we all fell in love right along with them. Now see it all unfold through Sam's eyes, and learn just how the new girl with anxiety issues stole the heart of the gorgeous heartthrob, and turned his world upside down.
You already heard the story. The one of how Rory and I fell in love, supposedly, even if she couldn't handle it in the end. You know how it all went.
Or you think you do.
You only know her side. But I have my own point of view, and even Rory couldn't know my thoughts in those few months it took for her to go from being a stranger to my whole entire world.
Every moment is permanently ingrained in my memory. In my goddamned soul. From the moment I stumbled upon the girl panicking outside of calculus - the one with the tight little body, the angelic face, and the fierce attitude - to the night she abandoned me in Miami. It was the sum of those moments that changed me irrevocably.
Our story isn't over. I won't let it be. But this, this is what happened so far, the way I saw it.
I'm Cap. Or Sam, to Rory. And this is my story.
OKAY (Book 2)
After the horrors she’s survived over the past year, Rory never expected to find the one thing she certainly wasn’t looking for – love. But after the painful realization that her past has left her a dangerous liability to the person she cares for the most, she finally understands that for her and Sam, love means letting go.
Can two people hopelessly in love ever revert back to just friends? Neither Rory nor Sam knows for sure. But the one thing they do know – it’s the only choice they have.
As Rory recovers from a devastating assault, Sam will do anything to make sure it never happens again. But how far will he go to keep her safe? Their choices will change everything, and they will either bring them back together or destroy them irrevocably.
942 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 18, 2016
42 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Pearl
13 books1,331 followersDanielle Pearl is the Amazon and iBooks best selling author of the Something More series. She lives in New Jersey with her three delicious children and ever-supportive husband, who--luckily--doesn't mind sharing her with an array of fictional men. She did a brief stint at Boston University and worked in marketing before publishing her debut novel, Normal. She writes mature Young Adult and New Adult Contemporary Romance. Danielle enjoys coffee, wine, and cupcakes, and not in moderation.
Danielle is represented by Erica Silverman @ Trident Media Group
Learn more at Daniellepearl.com
Like her Facebook page for updates -- Facebook.com/daniellepearlauthor
Follow her on twitter.com/danipearlauthor and Instagram.com/daniellepearlauthor
Danielle is represented by Erica Silverman @ Trident Media Group
Learn more at Daniellepearl.com
Like her Facebook page for updates -- Facebook.com/daniellepearlauthor
Follow her on twitter.com/danipearlauthor and Instagram.com/daniellepearlauthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 7, 2017
I loved loved Sam! He is def by far one of the most worthy hero's I have read in a long long time. Why can't we have more hero's like him??
November 30, 2016
This is not your normal, average love story. It is full of heartbreak, it is sad, but at the same time, it is so beautiful and encompassing. You get drawn into the story of Aurora "Rory" Pine’s life and the tragedy it has become. Her life went from happiness, security, love to horror, scared, anger, confusion, and hopelessness. The character in this book, Rory, is a victim of rape and by someone she knows. This is her story of how she rose above what happened to her and healing from her horrific ordeal. There is a lot of blame that can be cast but never at Rory. It goes to the people in her life at the time the attack(s) happened. See, when the truth comes out, the whole town (including her father) turns against her. When I read this, I was so upset and felt so bad for Rory. When the harassment becomes too much for Rory to endure, her mom finally takes Rory and leaves to live in New York, where she is from. Thing is, for Rory, before her first class, she meets the most popular boy in school, Sam Caplan, where she has a panic attack and he helps her thru it. After a few issues, Sam and Rory form this strong friendship. He is her rock and the person she turns to when things become rough. But because she is the new girl, she has people already trying to start trouble when she is only wanting to get thru school with no trouble.
Sam was absolutely amazing in this book. He wanted to totally protect Rory even though she didn’t want it. I loved how he stuck up for her , even with others and went to the mat for the woman he came to realize he completely loved, that had his heart. There is this POV that will take you a moment to get a used to but when you realize what is going on ,it adds to the story and I liked it. There are some great supporting characters ( Carl and Tucker ) who I can’t wait to read their stories . Let me just say, you will read each book in this box set ( Normal, Recap, and Okay ) and the emotions that will grip you will leave you feeling as though you rode a roller coaster and came out the other side completely changed --You will laugh, you will cry, you will want to hurt a lot of people during the reading of this book, like I did but overall, by the end, the love that Rory and Sam share, you end up feeling the love they share and falling in love with them and the characters in this series. I would love to read at least one more follow up book to know how Sam and Rory are doing because that is how awesome they are. Kudos to the author for the writing she exhibited to show the range of emotions because I felt each and every one. This is one box set you do not want to miss out on.
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Sam was absolutely amazing in this book. He wanted to totally protect Rory even though she didn’t want it. I loved how he stuck up for her , even with others and went to the mat for the woman he came to realize he completely loved, that had his heart. There is this POV that will take you a moment to get a used to but when you realize what is going on ,it adds to the story and I liked it. There are some great supporting characters ( Carl and Tucker ) who I can’t wait to read their stories . Let me just say, you will read each book in this box set ( Normal, Recap, and Okay ) and the emotions that will grip you will leave you feeling as though you rode a roller coaster and came out the other side completely changed --You will laugh, you will cry, you will want to hurt a lot of people during the reading of this book, like I did but overall, by the end, the love that Rory and Sam share, you end up feeling the love they share and falling in love with them and the characters in this series. I would love to read at least one more follow up book to know how Sam and Rory are doing because that is how awesome they are. Kudos to the author for the writing she exhibited to show the range of emotions because I felt each and every one. This is one box set you do not want to miss out on.
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
December 4, 2016
I read this series based off of a recommendation from a friend and it did not disappointment. The feelings this series brought out, wow. I loved reading them and I couldn’t put them down, I might have even given up eight hours of sleep to just to finish. The box set includes Normal, Recap and Okay (Recap is told from Sam’s point of view and takes place at the same time as book 1, Normal).
These books are the journey of Rory starting over in a new place- new state, new school, everything- during her senior year of high school and finding herself. At times I loved her character and at times I wanted to smack her for being so much like a typical teenage girl. My heart broke for her but slowly healed as we progressed through Normal and Okay. I love how she meets Sam and the soothing influence he provides for her. I love how the story ended, especially knowing she gets the happy ending she so thoroughly deserves. I don’t want to give away too much of the story line because I feel you have to read it to appreciate just how much she grew as a character. The struggles she survived make you love her even more.
Sam, goodness gracious… I love him. There couldn’t have been a better male counterpart for Rory. He loved her with all of him, even if he didn’t think he deserved it. Sam had his own struggles to go through, but I think the experiences that Sam has had up until he meet Rory are what made him so good for her. He has this side to him that made you feel for him. Sam has to be one of the most patience characters I’ve ever read about and I can honestly say, he is probably one of my favorites. I loved that we got to see his point of view during Recap, because it allowed you to connect with him on a whole new level. Seeing inside his mind was fun. I’m glad he met Rory and was able to get the happiness he deserved as well.
I couldn’t put these books down. I devoured them. I can’t wait to read In Ruins, which is a spin off. I am giving this series an overall rating of 4.5 stars.
These books are the journey of Rory starting over in a new place- new state, new school, everything- during her senior year of high school and finding herself. At times I loved her character and at times I wanted to smack her for being so much like a typical teenage girl. My heart broke for her but slowly healed as we progressed through Normal and Okay. I love how she meets Sam and the soothing influence he provides for her. I love how the story ended, especially knowing she gets the happy ending she so thoroughly deserves. I don’t want to give away too much of the story line because I feel you have to read it to appreciate just how much she grew as a character. The struggles she survived make you love her even more.
Sam, goodness gracious… I love him. There couldn’t have been a better male counterpart for Rory. He loved her with all of him, even if he didn’t think he deserved it. Sam had his own struggles to go through, but I think the experiences that Sam has had up until he meet Rory are what made him so good for her. He has this side to him that made you feel for him. Sam has to be one of the most patience characters I’ve ever read about and I can honestly say, he is probably one of my favorites. I loved that we got to see his point of view during Recap, because it allowed you to connect with him on a whole new level. Seeing inside his mind was fun. I’m glad he met Rory and was able to get the happiness he deserved as well.
I couldn’t put these books down. I devoured them. I can’t wait to read In Ruins, which is a spin off. I am giving this series an overall rating of 4.5 stars.
December 1, 2016
I gave this an overall 4 stars to encompass all the books in the set.
This series is really great and now the first three books are together in one boxed set! Normal is Rory and Sam's story through Rory's voice. ReCAP is the story told by Sam. Finally, in Okay, more of Sam and Rory's story and this one is particularly heartbreaking.
This is a can't miss series!
warning: these books cover some sensitive topics.
This series is really great and now the first three books are together in one boxed set! Normal is Rory and Sam's story through Rory's voice. ReCAP is the story told by Sam. Finally, in Okay, more of Sam and Rory's story and this one is particularly heartbreaking.
This is a can't miss series!
warning: these books cover some sensitive topics.
November 22, 2016
I really loved this series and could not put it down! It brought out so many emotions and feelings - joy, heartbreak, anger, confusion, and ultimately hope. Definitely recommend this series! Links to reviews for each book, Normal, ReCap, and Okay, below :)
Normal
ReCap
Okay
*Many thanks to the author for providing these ARCs free of charge*
Normal
ReCap
Okay
*Many thanks to the author for providing these ARCs free of charge*
February 7, 2018
Refreshing and healing
Officially in my top 5 favorite authors. The courage Rory shows in her healing is...I can't find the words...but if I could they'd all be good. And helps me to know healing is possible for me too. The love between her and Sam makes me believe I can find that too. Even after everything.
Officially in my top 5 favorite authors. The courage Rory shows in her healing is...I can't find the words...but if I could they'd all be good. And helps me to know healing is possible for me too. The love between her and Sam makes me believe I can find that too. Even after everything.
June 7, 2017
My first read by this author! I was immediately absorbed into this story and just didn't want to put it down. The writing, the character development and the plot were great! Can't wait to read about Carl and Tuck!
November 27, 2016
NORMAL
This is not your average love story. It is sad and heartbreaking but most of all beautiful and intoxicating. I have the biggest book hangover from it, I'm having trouble picking up another book after this one because I so badly need the second book to Rory and Sam's story. This book gives you the present mixed with the past that Rory had to go through to make her who she is today.
Rory is broken and she is now at a new school. She has a massive anxiety problem that has too many triggers to make life livable without a set of pills. When she meets Sam she is rightfully confused, he seems to be genuine and kind when she expects someone to not understand her issues and she can't help the attraction she feels for him. I like Rory a lot and learning of her story is so heartbreaking and you can't help but feel this onslaught of emotions from reading it. I was sad for her and shocked at the situation and angry at the men in her life and devastated for all the pain she has suffered. Sam is someone she learns to start to trust and he becomes a way for her to start living again and overcoming her triggers for anxiety.
Sam has got to be one of the greatest men in the world! He is so kind to Rory and understanding and all he wants is to help her and make her see she can be stronger. He has enough fight in him for the both of them and is willing to help her through all her issues without even realizing what they are at first. Sam is not your average hunk of a jock senior and has his own dark past that clouds his present and future. Sam makes a comment to Rory at one point of how they are Kindred and I absolutely LOVED this. Not only is he completely perfect but he too feels this strange attraction to Rory that can't be explained and feels like more than just a friendship and even more than just a sexual attraction.
Although it takes a long time for them to come together the way you know they should be, it seems perfect and un-rushed. But I knew with how soon the book was coming to the end and Rory seemed so unsure of her relationship with Sam, because she didn't want to endanger Sam anymore, that this wasn't going to be their happily ever after yet. So I'm hoping everything works out perfectly in the next book, because I NEED for these two to get the best relationship they deserve and this is the best relationship. EVER! Check out ReCAP, Normal from Sam's POV, and the conclusion OKAY!!
ReCAP
So this was awesome to get, I love the story from the mans POV!! This is Normal from Sam’s POV and it was so great to read and so emotional at the same time. I’m really not going to give away as much as I did in the other two reviews, just know that it is amazing and it really completes the entire series.
OKAY
I can count on one hand the books that have affected me so deeply I have laughed, cried, or been angry with characters and two of them happen to be written by Danielle Pearl. Normal and Okay are AMAZING books and I feel like I'll have this long book hangover because I still want to be in Sam and Rory's world with them. I am telling you now, you need to read these books, they are filled with what almost seems like teen angst (but really it's not, Rory and Sam are wise beyond their years due to having to grow up fast) and real life traumatic situations and the deepest love you will ever read about.
I absolutely love Rory's transformation in this book. She goes from this extremely traumatized girl who is on the verge of an anxiety attack if some guy looks at her wrong, to this strongly empowered woman who is learning how to deal with her anxiety in the best way she can. Of course she has Sam to thank for a lot of that but she follows through. It nearly broke my heart when she left Sam in Miami during spring break and left a note. Not only broke my heart for her decision she made but for how I know it would affect Sam. I understood her reason but damn was it upsetting. So the next steps of them just going back to just friends is doomed to fail, as you can see from Normal they didn't exactly have a standard relationship/love, there is no going back from what they had.
Poor Sammy!! Oh my God, his broken little heart, and he tries to stay so strong and be the friend that Rory still needs even though all he wants to do it hold her and profess his love for her. But he does it, it sucks a lot and he is practically dying inside, but I have to give the man some credit. You really see the length Sam will go in this book to make sure Rory is happy and safe and I absolutely love his protective side and how deeply he cares and loves her to give her what she needs. He's definitely one of my favorite book boyfriends of all time.
Like I said, YOU NEED to read these books!! They are so amazing and will make you fall in love with all of the characters that are awesome and truly hate the ones who aren't. You just don't get that from a lot of books these days and I am so thankful to have been contacted for the ARC for Normal all those months ago.
This is not your average love story. It is sad and heartbreaking but most of all beautiful and intoxicating. I have the biggest book hangover from it, I'm having trouble picking up another book after this one because I so badly need the second book to Rory and Sam's story. This book gives you the present mixed with the past that Rory had to go through to make her who she is today.
Rory is broken and she is now at a new school. She has a massive anxiety problem that has too many triggers to make life livable without a set of pills. When she meets Sam she is rightfully confused, he seems to be genuine and kind when she expects someone to not understand her issues and she can't help the attraction she feels for him. I like Rory a lot and learning of her story is so heartbreaking and you can't help but feel this onslaught of emotions from reading it. I was sad for her and shocked at the situation and angry at the men in her life and devastated for all the pain she has suffered. Sam is someone she learns to start to trust and he becomes a way for her to start living again and overcoming her triggers for anxiety.
Sam has got to be one of the greatest men in the world! He is so kind to Rory and understanding and all he wants is to help her and make her see she can be stronger. He has enough fight in him for the both of them and is willing to help her through all her issues without even realizing what they are at first. Sam is not your average hunk of a jock senior and has his own dark past that clouds his present and future. Sam makes a comment to Rory at one point of how they are Kindred and I absolutely LOVED this. Not only is he completely perfect but he too feels this strange attraction to Rory that can't be explained and feels like more than just a friendship and even more than just a sexual attraction.
Although it takes a long time for them to come together the way you know they should be, it seems perfect and un-rushed. But I knew with how soon the book was coming to the end and Rory seemed so unsure of her relationship with Sam, because she didn't want to endanger Sam anymore, that this wasn't going to be their happily ever after yet. So I'm hoping everything works out perfectly in the next book, because I NEED for these two to get the best relationship they deserve and this is the best relationship. EVER! Check out ReCAP, Normal from Sam's POV, and the conclusion OKAY!!
ReCAP
So this was awesome to get, I love the story from the mans POV!! This is Normal from Sam’s POV and it was so great to read and so emotional at the same time. I’m really not going to give away as much as I did in the other two reviews, just know that it is amazing and it really completes the entire series.
OKAY
I can count on one hand the books that have affected me so deeply I have laughed, cried, or been angry with characters and two of them happen to be written by Danielle Pearl. Normal and Okay are AMAZING books and I feel like I'll have this long book hangover because I still want to be in Sam and Rory's world with them. I am telling you now, you need to read these books, they are filled with what almost seems like teen angst (but really it's not, Rory and Sam are wise beyond their years due to having to grow up fast) and real life traumatic situations and the deepest love you will ever read about.
I absolutely love Rory's transformation in this book. She goes from this extremely traumatized girl who is on the verge of an anxiety attack if some guy looks at her wrong, to this strongly empowered woman who is learning how to deal with her anxiety in the best way she can. Of course she has Sam to thank for a lot of that but she follows through. It nearly broke my heart when she left Sam in Miami during spring break and left a note. Not only broke my heart for her decision she made but for how I know it would affect Sam. I understood her reason but damn was it upsetting. So the next steps of them just going back to just friends is doomed to fail, as you can see from Normal they didn't exactly have a standard relationship/love, there is no going back from what they had.
Poor Sammy!! Oh my God, his broken little heart, and he tries to stay so strong and be the friend that Rory still needs even though all he wants to do it hold her and profess his love for her. But he does it, it sucks a lot and he is practically dying inside, but I have to give the man some credit. You really see the length Sam will go in this book to make sure Rory is happy and safe and I absolutely love his protective side and how deeply he cares and loves her to give her what she needs. He's definitely one of my favorite book boyfriends of all time.
Like I said, YOU NEED to read these books!! They are so amazing and will make you fall in love with all of the characters that are awesome and truly hate the ones who aren't. You just don't get that from a lot of books these days and I am so thankful to have been contacted for the ARC for Normal all those months ago.
October 20, 2016
A little too long and a lot of characters thoughts but I've loved the story and I think it has been a wonderful read.
May 12, 2016
Normal Book 1
4.5 Stars
Normal takes on the difficult subject matter of teen domestic/sexual abuse. Please be aware that there are some disturbing scenes in this book that are a bit difficult to read. The character in this book, Rory, is the victim in this book. This is her story of rising above and healing from her horrific ordeal.
Rory was not only physically and mentally abused by her ex-boyfriend, but raped repeatedly as well. When the truth comes out, the whole town (including her father) turns against her. See, her ex is a football star and the golden boy in their town. When the harrassment becomes too much, her mother takes her to live in New York, where she is from. Understandably, Rory tries to stay invisible at her new school. Unfortunately, before her first class, she meets the most popular boy in school, Sam Caplan, when he helps her through a panic attack. After a few issues, Sam and Rory form an unbreakable friendship. He becomes her rock. However, in her new life, she also makes friends with a couple of girls. One of the girls, Carl, she knew from when she would visit her grandparents, so they already had a bond. It just strengthened.
This story is told so wonderfully. It is told in the present, when Rory is trying to rebuild not just her life, but herself. We also get flashbacks of the past. Of her former best friend, Cam, their relationship, then the relationship that wrecked her world and the ensuing chaos. My heart broke for Rory, but I also celebrated her victories when she would get over a trigger or stand up for herself. I did predict some things that happened in the book, but the author's writing immerses you so in the moment of the book that it almost feels like you're blindsided. She infuses this story with a vast array of emotions. You feel the character's sharp heartbreak and defeat and her moments of joy and heartbreak. I didn't merely read this book – I experienced it.
Recap Book 1.5
3.5 Stars
Well, the title says it all. This novella is a Recap of Normal. However, it is told in Sam's POV. I'm always pretty leery when it comes to the retelling of stories from the other POV. I can count on one hand the ones that I enjoyed and thought contributed to the series as a whole.
The author does a pretty decent job at retelling the events in book 1. It wasn't a play by play, but just important scenes where we got Sam's thoughts. I thought Sam was wonderful in Normal. I still like him, but he seems so full of guilt or something. I don't know. He just feels like everything is his fault. I guess that makes him a product of his childhood, though, so I can't really fault his character. I absolutely loved witnessing him fall for Rory through his thoughts.
I'm usually bored when I read these alternate POV books, but I wasn't with this book. While I knew what was going to happen, I didn't feel like it was all redundant. The author presented it in a way that the scenes felt new and I felt like I experienced them for the first time. The emotions are just as potent in this book as it was the first. I'm curious to see how the story will play out in Okay.
Okay Book 3
5 Stars
This book just catapulted this series to my favorites list for the year. It is beautifully written with a healthy dose of emotions. Okay is anything but. It is a beautifully written book of the healing power of love.
This book is told in the dual POVs of Sam and Rory. The longing and heartache for each other is etched into each page. They love each other so much and want the best for the other. Thus their current situation.
Rory… my heart broke for this character. What she endured and is still going through is terrible. Then, to feel like she has to deny herself her one sliver of peace and happiness in order to protect Sam. She deserved something happy. Then we have Sam. The playboy with the heart of gold. He falls so deeply in love with a girl who changes his outlook on life and relationships, but she is just out of his grasp. However, he loves her enough to take her any way that he can – as just a friend.
I want so badly to tell everyone detail of this story, but I just can’t bring myself to ruin this reading experience for others. This story has embedded itself into my heart, like good ones do. This series is a favorite for sure!
4.5 Stars
Normal takes on the difficult subject matter of teen domestic/sexual abuse. Please be aware that there are some disturbing scenes in this book that are a bit difficult to read. The character in this book, Rory, is the victim in this book. This is her story of rising above and healing from her horrific ordeal.
Rory was not only physically and mentally abused by her ex-boyfriend, but raped repeatedly as well. When the truth comes out, the whole town (including her father) turns against her. See, her ex is a football star and the golden boy in their town. When the harrassment becomes too much, her mother takes her to live in New York, where she is from. Understandably, Rory tries to stay invisible at her new school. Unfortunately, before her first class, she meets the most popular boy in school, Sam Caplan, when he helps her through a panic attack. After a few issues, Sam and Rory form an unbreakable friendship. He becomes her rock. However, in her new life, she also makes friends with a couple of girls. One of the girls, Carl, she knew from when she would visit her grandparents, so they already had a bond. It just strengthened.
This story is told so wonderfully. It is told in the present, when Rory is trying to rebuild not just her life, but herself. We also get flashbacks of the past. Of her former best friend, Cam, their relationship, then the relationship that wrecked her world and the ensuing chaos. My heart broke for Rory, but I also celebrated her victories when she would get over a trigger or stand up for herself. I did predict some things that happened in the book, but the author's writing immerses you so in the moment of the book that it almost feels like you're blindsided. She infuses this story with a vast array of emotions. You feel the character's sharp heartbreak and defeat and her moments of joy and heartbreak. I didn't merely read this book – I experienced it.
Recap Book 1.5
3.5 Stars
Well, the title says it all. This novella is a Recap of Normal. However, it is told in Sam's POV. I'm always pretty leery when it comes to the retelling of stories from the other POV. I can count on one hand the ones that I enjoyed and thought contributed to the series as a whole.
The author does a pretty decent job at retelling the events in book 1. It wasn't a play by play, but just important scenes where we got Sam's thoughts. I thought Sam was wonderful in Normal. I still like him, but he seems so full of guilt or something. I don't know. He just feels like everything is his fault. I guess that makes him a product of his childhood, though, so I can't really fault his character. I absolutely loved witnessing him fall for Rory through his thoughts.
I'm usually bored when I read these alternate POV books, but I wasn't with this book. While I knew what was going to happen, I didn't feel like it was all redundant. The author presented it in a way that the scenes felt new and I felt like I experienced them for the first time. The emotions are just as potent in this book as it was the first. I'm curious to see how the story will play out in Okay.
Okay Book 3
5 Stars
This book just catapulted this series to my favorites list for the year. It is beautifully written with a healthy dose of emotions. Okay is anything but. It is a beautifully written book of the healing power of love.
This book is told in the dual POVs of Sam and Rory. The longing and heartache for each other is etched into each page. They love each other so much and want the best for the other. Thus their current situation.
Rory… my heart broke for this character. What she endured and is still going through is terrible. Then, to feel like she has to deny herself her one sliver of peace and happiness in order to protect Sam. She deserved something happy. Then we have Sam. The playboy with the heart of gold. He falls so deeply in love with a girl who changes his outlook on life and relationships, but she is just out of his grasp. However, he loves her enough to take her any way that he can – as just a friend.
I want so badly to tell everyone detail of this story, but I just can’t bring myself to ruin this reading experience for others. This story has embedded itself into my heart, like good ones do. This series is a favorite for sure!
March 19, 2017
I fell in love with Danielle's books 2 years ago when Goodreads added Normal to my recommendation page. I had my second re-read right before In Ruins was released and I had every intention of waiting to do this 3rd re-read closer to the In Pieces release this October, but I just could not wait! I own every book in paperback form, however I wanted to be be able to sneak in a few chapters while at work, so I downloaded the boxed set to my kindle/kindle cloud reader.
I do not like going into specific detail when reviewing a book, however it should be known that this series will trigger many different emotions. For me to be able to enjoy a book, the character development must be strong, not only for the main characters, but the secondary ones as well. Especially in a series with such sensitive subject matter. Which is exactly what Danielle has done, there is so much depth with each character and each book continued to add more layers. The dialogue was realistic as was the overall storyline in each book. I honestly think this is a series worth checking out and when you are done you should move on to the next chapter in this series (In Ruins, the In Pieces) because I really do believe you will not be sorry when you hit the purchase button.
I do not like going into specific detail when reviewing a book, however it should be known that this series will trigger many different emotions. For me to be able to enjoy a book, the character development must be strong, not only for the main characters, but the secondary ones as well. Especially in a series with such sensitive subject matter. Which is exactly what Danielle has done, there is so much depth with each character and each book continued to add more layers. The dialogue was realistic as was the overall storyline in each book. I honestly think this is a series worth checking out and when you are done you should move on to the next chapter in this series (In Ruins, the In Pieces) because I really do believe you will not be sorry when you hit the purchase button.
February 9, 2017
Normal
Holy crap this book. My heart literally went through the ringer reading this. But in the best way possible. It just, there are really now words. I without a doubt adore these characters and the way in which they all interact with each other.
We start off the story with Rory starting in a new school. She's closed off and is keeping to herself. Until she has a panic attack and enters Sam. And from there is the beginning of one of the most beautiful friendships and relationships I've ever read.
Sam is not your average 18 year old jock. He's sweet, he's kind, he knows how to treat Rory even if she doesn't exactly know what she needs. Basically he's perfect and a saint and can I just steal him from Rory?!?
There is so much to this story but it all starts with a fiercely strong amazing girl even if she doesn't exactly know it. It takes Sam and more friendships for Rory to see his to the point where she believes she can be the girl she once was. And that's all I wanted for her more than the world while reading! ❤️
Recap
This is just a short and sweet novella kind of recapping Normal, hence the title. But you get Sam's POV which I love. You get to see how much Sam cares for Rory in his POV and so on. I loved it and it had me wanting more and more of these beloved
characters!
Okay
Ohhhh I wasn't ready to say goodbye to Sam and today. There story through it all was absolutely amazing!! Ups, downs, fights, but ultimately love can get you through anything. And these two are a perfect example of that!
This story just keeps on continuing with its awesomeness. Our beloved characters are still on their ultimately journey to get to the happy ending we all strive for. It isn't easy but it's doable. Sam is determined to make it happen. And in the end so is Rory. It's hard to believe in happy endings after all Rory has been through. But it's Sam and if anyone can help Rory find her happy ending it's him. I believed with all my heart he could do it!!
Holy crap this book. My heart literally went through the ringer reading this. But in the best way possible. It just, there are really now words. I without a doubt adore these characters and the way in which they all interact with each other.
We start off the story with Rory starting in a new school. She's closed off and is keeping to herself. Until she has a panic attack and enters Sam. And from there is the beginning of one of the most beautiful friendships and relationships I've ever read.
Sam is not your average 18 year old jock. He's sweet, he's kind, he knows how to treat Rory even if she doesn't exactly know what she needs. Basically he's perfect and a saint and can I just steal him from Rory?!?
There is so much to this story but it all starts with a fiercely strong amazing girl even if she doesn't exactly know it. It takes Sam and more friendships for Rory to see his to the point where she believes she can be the girl she once was. And that's all I wanted for her more than the world while reading! ❤️
Recap
This is just a short and sweet novella kind of recapping Normal, hence the title. But you get Sam's POV which I love. You get to see how much Sam cares for Rory in his POV and so on. I loved it and it had me wanting more and more of these beloved
characters!
Okay
Ohhhh I wasn't ready to say goodbye to Sam and today. There story through it all was absolutely amazing!! Ups, downs, fights, but ultimately love can get you through anything. And these two are a perfect example of that!
This story just keeps on continuing with its awesomeness. Our beloved characters are still on their ultimately journey to get to the happy ending we all strive for. It isn't easy but it's doable. Sam is determined to make it happen. And in the end so is Rory. It's hard to believe in happy endings after all Rory has been through. But it's Sam and if anyone can help Rory find her happy ending it's him. I believed with all my heart he could do it!!
May 4, 2016
For Normal:
Normal is the kind of book that opens your heart, examines its parts and then stomps all over it only to put it back together again, better than before. It’s feels overload. The flashback scenes are gut-wrenching, horrifying, the sort of paralyzing trauma that leaves you breathless in sheer fear and trembling with tears. Rory’s suffering is incredibly moving and heartbreaking. Every remembered incident is an open wound and your heart will bleed right along with her. Grab your tissues. Lots of them.
For ReCap:
From the first page of this series, I’ve been hooked. I love everything about Rory and Sam, their complex relationship, the past trauma, how they heal each other’s wounds and see how strong they truly are just by being loved. It’s beautiful, uplifting, heartbreaking, everything you could ever want in a story and so so so important. The Something More series deals with crucial issues that are not voiced enough, that people look away from rather than take action against like domestic abuse and rape. In many ways, when we do hear these stories, they’re from one side, or maybe two, the victim and the attacker, but what about the people who are there after, those who love and cherish those who have been hurt so deeply? ReCap is that other story. The powerful and life-changing POV of those who fall madly in love with someone who has been abused and the everyday struggles that come up.
For Okay:
When I first read NORMAL, I was absolutely stunned and impressed with Danielle Pearl’s voice. The way she captured the anxiety, the terror, and just how debilitating living with PTSD is on a daily basis was precise, accurate and showcased a substantial amount of research and understanding. Generally when people think of PTSD, I think they assume soldiers. PTSD has many faces and many levels of distress. Danielle Pearl does an amazing job informing the reader of the little things, the tiny day-to-day activities that those who do not suffer from PTSD don’t think about and sheds light on the strength it takes to endure when anxiety and memory strike. OKAY is a continuation of Rory and Sam’s romance and hones in more on self acceptance, learning to love in the face of a traumatic series of sexual abuse, and discovering that no matter how dark and horrendous the past can be, hope is as resilient as the human spirit.
December 5, 2016
Danielle Pearl is a talented writer. Her books lure readers into her plotlines. Like magic. The Something More Boxed Set has everything readers who enjoy romances will want.
In Normal (book 1), we are introduced to the beginning of a realistic couple. Rory is a broken girl who falls in love with a guy she should despise...yet fate brings them together not once but many times. Maybe they're meant for another. But then, there's a catch. Sam's life isn't as perfect as Rory would assume. Relating to each of these main characters is easy. Both have heavy yet real life drama to deal with like the rest of us. This made me want to read more about Rory and Sam.
Luckily for me, Danielle Pearl, had the second part of this couple's story. Inside Recap (book 1.5), readers get the scoop of the same story but told in Sam's point of view. This was brilliant on the writer to do so. Readers like myself love viewing a story from both main characters' point of views. Because it gives the same story a deep and more emotional attachment if one point of view was left out of the book.
Last but not least, there is Okay (book 2). This novel is the epic turning point for both Rory and Sam. They both know what they should do but doing it is so much harder. This tale has a Romeo and Juliet feel to it. It's safer if they stayed friends...but what the hearts wants can destroy them forever and is more powerful than what the brain tells them.
Overall, I was hooked. Every page contained suspense and intrigue. I couldn't stop reading this Boxed set. The characters pulled me inside their lives. I was trapped and excited. A thrilling sensation filled me as I followed both to the last page of Okay. The characters are complex. Their emotions was like one wild rollercoaster ride. I enjoyed every intense moment. Their relationship was a constant state of pull and push. Engaging, entertaining, and phenomenal. Danielle Pearl has clearly caught my attention with this boxed set. I highly recommend this contemporary romance set t readers everywhere. Each book, is definitely worth the time to read. Something More is exactly right. This set is something more...
In Normal (book 1), we are introduced to the beginning of a realistic couple. Rory is a broken girl who falls in love with a guy she should despise...yet fate brings them together not once but many times. Maybe they're meant for another. But then, there's a catch. Sam's life isn't as perfect as Rory would assume. Relating to each of these main characters is easy. Both have heavy yet real life drama to deal with like the rest of us. This made me want to read more about Rory and Sam.
Luckily for me, Danielle Pearl, had the second part of this couple's story. Inside Recap (book 1.5), readers get the scoop of the same story but told in Sam's point of view. This was brilliant on the writer to do so. Readers like myself love viewing a story from both main characters' point of views. Because it gives the same story a deep and more emotional attachment if one point of view was left out of the book.
Last but not least, there is Okay (book 2). This novel is the epic turning point for both Rory and Sam. They both know what they should do but doing it is so much harder. This tale has a Romeo and Juliet feel to it. It's safer if they stayed friends...but what the hearts wants can destroy them forever and is more powerful than what the brain tells them.
Overall, I was hooked. Every page contained suspense and intrigue. I couldn't stop reading this Boxed set. The characters pulled me inside their lives. I was trapped and excited. A thrilling sensation filled me as I followed both to the last page of Okay. The characters are complex. Their emotions was like one wild rollercoaster ride. I enjoyed every intense moment. Their relationship was a constant state of pull and push. Engaging, entertaining, and phenomenal. Danielle Pearl has clearly caught my attention with this boxed set. I highly recommend this contemporary romance set t readers everywhere. Each book, is definitely worth the time to read. Something More is exactly right. This set is something more...
December 2, 2016
This review is for all 3 stories, as it was hard to put it down. The first story Normal was the harrowing account through Rory’s eyes. Where the past is interspersed and unfolding along with the present. Seeing how her relationship with Robin unfolds, seen through her eyes is written really well, even if to some the self-blame may be overtop, I think it captured the manipulations by others very well . We also see her relationship with Sam develop, and it was lovely to see.
We then have Recap, where we see everything through Sam’s eyes, and follows meeting Rory and everything up to the end of Normal. This gave us another perspective, and we saw Rory through different eyes.
The third story Normal was told from a dual perspective, Rory and Sam. We also see all the repercussions from the Miami trip. It was wonderful to see Rory growing stronger and more of a normal teenage girl, by the end of this book. This was a gripping account the rape and sexual abuse of a teenage girl, and how it affected all aspects of her life. Never the less it is a story of hope and happiness. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
We then have Recap, where we see everything through Sam’s eyes, and follows meeting Rory and everything up to the end of Normal. This gave us another perspective, and we saw Rory through different eyes.
The third story Normal was told from a dual perspective, Rory and Sam. We also see all the repercussions from the Miami trip. It was wonderful to see Rory growing stronger and more of a normal teenage girl, by the end of this book. This was a gripping account the rape and sexual abuse of a teenage girl, and how it affected all aspects of her life. Never the less it is a story of hope and happiness. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
January 3, 2017
This entire series blew my mind and ripped my heart out all in the one go!
It was haunting in it's story with a tale that has etched itself in my heart ever since I finished it.
Rory is a teenager who has been to hell and back. Putting the pieces of this story together as the pages turned was killing me!
Sam (Cap) is adorable and the way he sees Rory is so touching but he has his own crosses to bear so this series is one where delicate situations are detailed in such a beautiful respectful and heart wrenching way.
The secondary characters are perfect! The support cast for this beautiful series is so on point it's crazy!
And Cam - holy shit I cant even mention him without feeling my eyes water up - he stole my heart and the some!
The bond that grows and blossoms Rory and Cap especially during a time in their lives where they have no idea how badly they need each other is strong and poignant!
I couldn't recommend this series or anyone of the book included enough!
5 plus stars for this series that ripped my heart out and kept a piece of it before putting it back together!!
It was haunting in it's story with a tale that has etched itself in my heart ever since I finished it.
Rory is a teenager who has been to hell and back. Putting the pieces of this story together as the pages turned was killing me!
Sam (Cap) is adorable and the way he sees Rory is so touching but he has his own crosses to bear so this series is one where delicate situations are detailed in such a beautiful respectful and heart wrenching way.
The secondary characters are perfect! The support cast for this beautiful series is so on point it's crazy!
And Cam - holy shit I cant even mention him without feeling my eyes water up - he stole my heart and the some!
The bond that grows and blossoms Rory and Cap especially during a time in their lives where they have no idea how badly they need each other is strong and poignant!
I couldn't recommend this series or anyone of the book included enough!
5 plus stars for this series that ripped my heart out and kept a piece of it before putting it back together!!
May 4, 2016
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading this box set but let me just say....from page one I was hooked. My heart completely broke for Rory. Although at first your not to sure what is wrong with her you do quickly realize it although not to what extent. Sam was absolutely amazing!!! I loved him and how patient he was with Rory. I'm usually not one who like the flashbacks from chapter to chapter but I must say with this one it definitely worked. You will laugh, you will cry, you will want to hurt several people along the way but by the end of this series you will have fallen in live with the characters and not want the book to end. Book one is all Rory's POV and I love that we get Sam's POV with 1.5. It definitely brings so much more to light and you will fall in love with him even more. Book 2 we get both Rory and Sam's POV. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed that this is not the end yet to Rory and Sam. I think they at least need one more book or even a novella!! Great job Danielle Pearl....I can't wait to read more of your books!!!
April 23, 2016
Pre-order The Something More Boxed Set
FOR JUST .99¢
Check out the Exclusive excerpt and links on Wanderlust & Books http://wanderlustandbooks.weebly.com/...
FOR JUST .99¢Check out the Exclusive excerpt and links on Wanderlust & Books http://wanderlustandbooks.weebly.com/...
October 24, 2016
Fantastic series!!
I was hooked from the first couple pages of Normal and didn't put my kindle down until I read them all.
These books will make you swoon, laugh, cry, get angry .....and then do it all over again. I think I have found another go to author in Danielle Pearl--I can't wait to see what's next!!
I was hooked from the first couple pages of Normal and didn't put my kindle down until I read them all.
These books will make you swoon, laugh, cry, get angry .....and then do it all over again. I think I have found another go to author in Danielle Pearl--I can't wait to see what's next!!
April 30, 2016
Wow, this series took me by surprise. It was extremely heartbreaking to read at times but it was an amazing story. I really wished there was more of an HEA and not a happy for now. However I am keeping my fingers crossed for a final book for Rory & Sam.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews