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The Prototype #2
Finding Kennedy
When Kennedy James unexpectedly shows up at her grandma’s house in Tyler, Texas, no one knows what to make of her arrival—including her. The only thing Kennedy does know is that something in her life has to change, and it needs to happen right now. She’s been numb for much too long.
Then she meets Travis Broussard, the perceptively cool guitarist of the indie soul band, The Prototype. The timing couldn’t be worse, but their attraction is instant, magnetic, and at times overwhelming, causing Kennedy to question if it’s possible to feel too much.
As Kennedy attempts to embark on a new path, she finds herself at a crossroads. But if she chooses to follow her heart, is she prepared to deal with what she might find?
Then she meets Travis Broussard, the perceptively cool guitarist of the indie soul band, The Prototype. The timing couldn’t be worse, but their attraction is instant, magnetic, and at times overwhelming, causing Kennedy to question if it’s possible to feel too much.
As Kennedy attempts to embark on a new path, she finds herself at a crossroads. But if she chooses to follow her heart, is she prepared to deal with what she might find?
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2016
149 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
Jacinta Howard
21 books522 followersJacinta Howard is an Atlanta-based culture journalist, editor and author with more than a decade of experience across genres of media. Her bylined articles have appeared at Eater, Atlanta magazine, Shondaland, Denver Westword, BET, and Rock The Bells, LL Cool J’s media company, where she served as managing editor. Jacinta’s 2022 article about the chicken wings served at Magic City, Atlanta’s world-famous strip club, was nominated for an American Society of Magazine Editors Award, and her novels have been featured in USA Today, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Book Riot and OkayAfrica. She digs summertime, flip flops, old fashioneds, deep bass lines, good lyrics, goofy jokes, and kind people. She also believes there’s an Andre 3000 lyric to fit any situation. Her happy place is hanging on the beach somewhere with her family, preferably with a good book and a dope playlist.
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June 2, 2016
Finding Kennedy is book two in The Prototype series by Jacinta Howard. This book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review by the author.
For the last two years, Kennedy James has been barely existing in Colorado where she lives. She has tried to make herself numb. She doesn’t want to feel. She knew she couldn’t go on like this much longer so she packed a bag, got in her car, and drove to Tyler, Texas to her Grandmother, Pepper’s house. She loved her grandmother but hasn’t seen her in a longtime. Maybe a change of scenery will help, a fresh start.
It doesn’t take long for Kennedy to meet the oh so sexy Travis Broussard. Travis is a guitarist and plays in the band, The Prototype, with Jersey and Zay whom we met in the first book. The connection between Kennedy and Travis goes beyond strong chemistry. It does deeper. They are tied together in ways neither of them can understand.
Travis Broussard is Zay’s cousin. The first time he saw Kennedy he felt it, that soul deep connection. It’s obvious she feels it too but he also sees pain in her eyes. He doesn’t know what her secrets are or what she ran from but it’s obvious that she is still struggling with it. As he and Kennedy get to know each other, the connection gets stronger. But the timing is off. This isn’t the right time for them.
As the push and pull continues between Travis and Kennedy, she finally starts to find herself in Tyler, Texas. Her grandmother has a way of knowing just what she needs and Kennedy discovers things about herself she never thought possible. Slowly, a new kind of future begins to form before her. Just how will Travis fit in to that future? Is Kennedy ready to let go of the past and move on?
This is a sweet story of a young woman who has seen way too much darkness in her young life. She finds a strength she didn’t know she had and finally finds her footing. But the going isn’t easy, for either she or for Travis. Obstacles are continually thrust in their paths. Watching what these two had to go through was painful and heart breaking. I admit I struggled a bit with some of the terminology but I think that’s an age thing. It’s obvious from the start that Travis and Kennedy are meant for each other and I hated that their journey had to be so rocky.
This book could be read as a stand alone but it would definitely be even more enjoyable if you read Happiness in Jersey first and meet Jersey and Zay and the rest of the band.
“Love bears, love believes, love hopes, love endures.”
For the last two years, Kennedy James has been barely existing in Colorado where she lives. She has tried to make herself numb. She doesn’t want to feel. She knew she couldn’t go on like this much longer so she packed a bag, got in her car, and drove to Tyler, Texas to her Grandmother, Pepper’s house. She loved her grandmother but hasn’t seen her in a longtime. Maybe a change of scenery will help, a fresh start.
It doesn’t take long for Kennedy to meet the oh so sexy Travis Broussard. Travis is a guitarist and plays in the band, The Prototype, with Jersey and Zay whom we met in the first book. The connection between Kennedy and Travis goes beyond strong chemistry. It does deeper. They are tied together in ways neither of them can understand.
Travis Broussard is Zay’s cousin. The first time he saw Kennedy he felt it, that soul deep connection. It’s obvious she feels it too but he also sees pain in her eyes. He doesn’t know what her secrets are or what she ran from but it’s obvious that she is still struggling with it. As he and Kennedy get to know each other, the connection gets stronger. But the timing is off. This isn’t the right time for them.
As the push and pull continues between Travis and Kennedy, she finally starts to find herself in Tyler, Texas. Her grandmother has a way of knowing just what she needs and Kennedy discovers things about herself she never thought possible. Slowly, a new kind of future begins to form before her. Just how will Travis fit in to that future? Is Kennedy ready to let go of the past and move on?
This is a sweet story of a young woman who has seen way too much darkness in her young life. She finds a strength she didn’t know she had and finally finds her footing. But the going isn’t easy, for either she or for Travis. Obstacles are continually thrust in their paths. Watching what these two had to go through was painful and heart breaking. I admit I struggled a bit with some of the terminology but I think that’s an age thing. It’s obvious from the start that Travis and Kennedy are meant for each other and I hated that their journey had to be so rocky.
This book could be read as a stand alone but it would definitely be even more enjoyable if you read Happiness in Jersey first and meet Jersey and Zay and the rest of the band.
“Love bears, love believes, love hopes, love endures.”
May 30, 2016
Whenever I read anything of Jacinta Howard's, there's never any question that I'm going to enjoy it. The question is always, 'how much?' She writes brooding, soulful, heartfelt-without-being-corny prose that just gets you right in the gut. How could I not like that? And so I always do, no matter whether it's a short piece on her blog, or a full-length novel. But there are those of her works I don't just like, I love and 'Finding Kennedy' is definitely one of those.
While reading it, I'm pretty sure I experienced just about every emotion possible, and found myself highlighting passages that were either profound, quirky, amusing or just plain ol' well-written. This author's voice is stronger than it's ever been, but as always it shines most in the voices of her characters. When they speak, you hear them, and hear in them the voices of people you know, and whom you've met; and if not that, certainly people you would like to know and meet. And in this novel, more than ever before, I could see, feel, smell and touch things, just as the characters were. In moments that some writers would not be attentive to, she painted a picture.
Like this one when the main character Kennedy gets up the first morning after moving to her grandmother's and heads to the bathroom :
"The house was quiet and bright with natural sunlight when I stepped out of the room and made my way down the hall to the bathroom. It was tiny, with yellow flowered wallpaper and pea green linoleum on the floor. It was hideous but comforting."
A totally meaningless moment, but one that paints a picture -- we've all been in that bathroom in our grandmomma's house, haven't we?? And written in a way that is so clean, so simple, so accessible and yet it manages to transport us there nevertheless. Stuff like that makes an okay book, a great book for me.
And stuff like this, when Travis is thinking about how much he likes his old house, and wouldn't want it modernized. The wood floors, the author says "shined with weary experience". See, for me? That's the good stuff right there. For me, that's what makes a book live, instead of just being words on a page. It's in my mind like having a friend tell you a story in such vivid detail that years later when you're recounting it for someone else, you can almost believe you were there personally, and that it was not just a story someone told you. That's how vivid this book was.
But okay, it would be fair comment to say that not everyone geeks out on stylistic flourishes, so what about the story, the characters, the romance?
Trust me when I tell you all of that was tight as well. Following up on the powerful connection we saw between Jersey and Zay in book one of The Prototype series, she gives us Travis and Kennedy. And whoa. Now here's the real: I NEVER believe it when couples have an "instant attraction" unless the writer makes it clear that it's purely physical. That immediate soul connection stuff has never been convincingly portrayed (to me). Jacinta Howard did it here. After Travis and Kennedy's very first encounter when they almost kiss (yeah, right?) I believed that they would and almost could have kissed under those circumstances because she wrote it so well.
And later, when they actually do have that first kiss, it was one of the best written "first-kiss scenes" I have ever read. Because it was about emotion and connection and ambivalence and longing and animalistic attraction (or, as Kennedy would say, "some National Geographic shit"). And I felt it. It was (on my ereader anyway) a two-page build-up and navigation of will and emotion before the characters' lips met and it was effing perfect.
Because I'm in serious danger of gushing, I'm going to wrap up here with a couple more notes. The character of Travis was not just "book-boyfriend sexy", he was amazing in the way that Zay was amazing in 'Happiness in Jersey'--once he decided that he wanted Kennedy, he never faltered, never played games and never deviated from the plan of getting her. I love that about Jacinta Howard's heroes. Age and stage in life notwithstanding, they decide they want their woman and then they become single-minded about getting her. I was so moved by the emotion between Kennedy and Travis, I didn't need the physical stuff, but of course that blazed as well. The challenge to their relationship was well-played. Not too much drama (who needs it?) but just enough to make you understand how they might mess things up, as we humans are prone to doing.
A few moments I marked:
"He wasn't just looking at me. He was looking into me, seeing me--my cracks, my breaks, the lines and scars that defined my soul now."
and this, describing a kiss ...
"It was slow but hungry, full of intention, realization ... acceptance."
And Travis realizing his losing (initial) battle against his attraction to Kennedy ...
"I smelled her. Like a damn animal, I'd actually smelled Kennedy's scent lingering in the house, and I wanted to go to her, strip away her clothes and all the layers of stuff between us and just ... take her. Over and over and over until she couldn't move. Over and over until the only thing she breathed, and thought, and felt was me."
Okay, did I say earlier that the author's voice shines most brightly in the voices of her characters? I take that back. This is all her. And it's all good. Highly recommend this one.
While reading it, I'm pretty sure I experienced just about every emotion possible, and found myself highlighting passages that were either profound, quirky, amusing or just plain ol' well-written. This author's voice is stronger than it's ever been, but as always it shines most in the voices of her characters. When they speak, you hear them, and hear in them the voices of people you know, and whom you've met; and if not that, certainly people you would like to know and meet. And in this novel, more than ever before, I could see, feel, smell and touch things, just as the characters were. In moments that some writers would not be attentive to, she painted a picture.
Like this one when the main character Kennedy gets up the first morning after moving to her grandmother's and heads to the bathroom :
"The house was quiet and bright with natural sunlight when I stepped out of the room and made my way down the hall to the bathroom. It was tiny, with yellow flowered wallpaper and pea green linoleum on the floor. It was hideous but comforting."
A totally meaningless moment, but one that paints a picture -- we've all been in that bathroom in our grandmomma's house, haven't we?? And written in a way that is so clean, so simple, so accessible and yet it manages to transport us there nevertheless. Stuff like that makes an okay book, a great book for me.
And stuff like this, when Travis is thinking about how much he likes his old house, and wouldn't want it modernized. The wood floors, the author says "shined with weary experience". See, for me? That's the good stuff right there. For me, that's what makes a book live, instead of just being words on a page. It's in my mind like having a friend tell you a story in such vivid detail that years later when you're recounting it for someone else, you can almost believe you were there personally, and that it was not just a story someone told you. That's how vivid this book was.
But okay, it would be fair comment to say that not everyone geeks out on stylistic flourishes, so what about the story, the characters, the romance?
Trust me when I tell you all of that was tight as well. Following up on the powerful connection we saw between Jersey and Zay in book one of The Prototype series, she gives us Travis and Kennedy. And whoa. Now here's the real: I NEVER believe it when couples have an "instant attraction" unless the writer makes it clear that it's purely physical. That immediate soul connection stuff has never been convincingly portrayed (to me). Jacinta Howard did it here. After Travis and Kennedy's very first encounter when they almost kiss (yeah, right?) I believed that they would and almost could have kissed under those circumstances because she wrote it so well.
And later, when they actually do have that first kiss, it was one of the best written "first-kiss scenes" I have ever read. Because it was about emotion and connection and ambivalence and longing and animalistic attraction (or, as Kennedy would say, "some National Geographic shit"). And I felt it. It was (on my ereader anyway) a two-page build-up and navigation of will and emotion before the characters' lips met and it was effing perfect.
Because I'm in serious danger of gushing, I'm going to wrap up here with a couple more notes. The character of Travis was not just "book-boyfriend sexy", he was amazing in the way that Zay was amazing in 'Happiness in Jersey'--once he decided that he wanted Kennedy, he never faltered, never played games and never deviated from the plan of getting her. I love that about Jacinta Howard's heroes. Age and stage in life notwithstanding, they decide they want their woman and then they become single-minded about getting her. I was so moved by the emotion between Kennedy and Travis, I didn't need the physical stuff, but of course that blazed as well. The challenge to their relationship was well-played. Not too much drama (who needs it?) but just enough to make you understand how they might mess things up, as we humans are prone to doing.
A few moments I marked:
"He wasn't just looking at me. He was looking into me, seeing me--my cracks, my breaks, the lines and scars that defined my soul now."
and this, describing a kiss ...
"It was slow but hungry, full of intention, realization ... acceptance."
And Travis realizing his losing (initial) battle against his attraction to Kennedy ...
"I smelled her. Like a damn animal, I'd actually smelled Kennedy's scent lingering in the house, and I wanted to go to her, strip away her clothes and all the layers of stuff between us and just ... take her. Over and over and over until she couldn't move. Over and over until the only thing she breathed, and thought, and felt was me."
Okay, did I say earlier that the author's voice shines most brightly in the voices of her characters? I take that back. This is all her. And it's all good. Highly recommend this one.
July 12, 2023
Young adults or coming of age stories are usually not my cup of tea. But, this was done to perfection. Kennedy is looking for a change. She’s looking to feel something different than what she's been feeling. She left Colorado to escape her mundane life and a past that haunts her. She ends up at her grandmother’s home, and immediately, things start to change. She meets Travis and joins a band. She and Travis’ chemistry were so strong that I could feel it through the pages of this book. Their love for music brought them together in such a pure, beautiful, and deep way. Travis' stoic demeanor was everything in this book. He loved hard and was persistent. He handled Kennedy with such love and care, even when drama entered their circle. He wanted her and fought for her. This story pulled at my heart, and I loved the H&h and all the music and song references. Though I’m late, this is a new to me author, and I thoroughly enjoyed her style and am definitely looking forward to diving more into her catalog. This was a really feel-good story always, Wesleigh and Jakobi delivered.
August 18, 2016
Spoiler Free Review
4 STAR Read
Genre: Romance (has music/musician theme)
Series: Book two in The Prototype series but can be read as a standalone
After a life altering experience Kennedy James fell into a routine. An introverted routine that left her social life non existent. Suddenly feeling suffocated by it all she up and leaves home; and that is where the book starts.
Kennedy James
In need of a change Kennedy finds herself leaving Denver on the road to a Texas small town named Tyler. The second she arrives at her grandmother Pepper's house she questions her decision. In the midst of doubts Pepper assures her that she is more than welcome to stay. In fact she'd been expecting her.
“I hope that you’re the one… if not, you are the prototype…” -Outkast
Travis Broussard
Travis is a guitarist in a band called The Prototype. His introduction scene is filled with witty dialogue and a strong attraction between he and Kennedy that's undeniable. Although the attraction is instant, it is also on a deeper level that he nor she could have ever expected. Especially for a first encounter... After said first encounter Travis knew he was in trouble because Kennedy was temptation in the flesh. His words, not mine. I would also like to note that he is very much an alpha male.
Their connection is on point however their timing is all screwed up. His past can't seem to STAY in the past. Nevertheless, Travis stands firm in his desire to have her in EVERY way. Mind, body and soul. Letting her know point blank and period... I want you Kennedy.
My Thoughts..
This is my first read by Jacinta and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed her writing. In Finding Kennedy, Howard melds her craft with another.. Music. Thus engaging the readers with the passion of music held by her characters.
->What I did not like? Maya. She can go choke on something sharp and pointy. LOL!
->What I liked, no what I loved was their chemistry. It was literally soul stirring and very well written. Tastefully sensual in a teasing manner.
The writing
I am really digging her style. ❤️ I give this a solid 4 stars. The writing was smooth, true to life with relatable characters and situations. I most definitely look forward to reading more of her work.
To buy OR Not to buy? Buy!
Series: Yes, this is book 2. BUT The Prototype can be read as a standalone.
Recommendation: Yes. And I would read book 1 it's a standalone but you'll become interested in the first book after meeting the couple.
Plot/Storyline: Relatable with true life situations.
Steam Factor: High. On a scale of 1-10 I say 8.5
Now go forth and read, then come tell us what you thought about it! If only just a few words, reviews are important to authors.
4 STAR Read
Genre: Romance (has music/musician theme)
Series: Book two in The Prototype series but can be read as a standalone
After a life altering experience Kennedy James fell into a routine. An introverted routine that left her social life non existent. Suddenly feeling suffocated by it all she up and leaves home; and that is where the book starts.
Kennedy James
In need of a change Kennedy finds herself leaving Denver on the road to a Texas small town named Tyler. The second she arrives at her grandmother Pepper's house she questions her decision. In the midst of doubts Pepper assures her that she is more than welcome to stay. In fact she'd been expecting her.
“I hope that you’re the one… if not, you are the prototype…” -Outkast
Travis Broussard
Travis is a guitarist in a band called The Prototype. His introduction scene is filled with witty dialogue and a strong attraction between he and Kennedy that's undeniable. Although the attraction is instant, it is also on a deeper level that he nor she could have ever expected. Especially for a first encounter... After said first encounter Travis knew he was in trouble because Kennedy was temptation in the flesh. His words, not mine. I would also like to note that he is very much an alpha male.
Their connection is on point however their timing is all screwed up. His past can't seem to STAY in the past. Nevertheless, Travis stands firm in his desire to have her in EVERY way. Mind, body and soul. Letting her know point blank and period... I want you Kennedy.
My Thoughts..
This is my first read by Jacinta and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed her writing. In Finding Kennedy, Howard melds her craft with another.. Music. Thus engaging the readers with the passion of music held by her characters.
->What I did not like? Maya. She can go choke on something sharp and pointy. LOL!
->What I liked, no what I loved was their chemistry. It was literally soul stirring and very well written. Tastefully sensual in a teasing manner.
The writing
I am really digging her style. ❤️ I give this a solid 4 stars. The writing was smooth, true to life with relatable characters and situations. I most definitely look forward to reading more of her work.
To buy OR Not to buy? Buy!
Series: Yes, this is book 2. BUT The Prototype can be read as a standalone.
Recommendation: Yes. And I would read book 1 it's a standalone but you'll become interested in the first book after meeting the couple.
Plot/Storyline: Relatable with true life situations.
Steam Factor: High. On a scale of 1-10 I say 8.5
Now go forth and read, then come tell us what you thought about it! If only just a few words, reviews are important to authors.
May 26, 2016
Whew, man! This is more than just love at first sight. Imagine hearing the sound of someone’s voice, and you just know that that person was put on this earth just for you. Well, that’s what happens between Kennedy and Travis, only the tie that binds isn’t words, but music and mere presence. I have never read about two people who are so inexplicably drawn to each other simply because the other person “exists”.
This story is so visual, that you feel like you are witnessing everything as it unfolds in real time. Kennedy James is on the run, escaping a tragic past that is preventing her from living in the moment. She seeks refuge in her grandmother’s home who lives in the small town of Tyler, Texas. Kennedy has no plan, but it’s all good because fate has already taken care of that. Enter Travis Broussard.
Travis is a man on a mission: Getting that degree and taking his band The Prototype to the next level. Falling in love is the last thing on his agenda-until he’s almost attacked with a spoon by a brown-skinned thickums named Kennedy. The energy between these two just fly off the page, and just reading about their interaction with one another was so intense at times, that I had to put my Kindle down and take a break!
This story is truly engaging and entertaining from first swipe to the last. There are a few unexpected plot twists and o-m-g moments that will take you by surprise because I thought I had this story all figured out. I like that shit! The music is the backdrop to this love story, and the playlist is off the chain.
This story is so visual, that you feel like you are witnessing everything as it unfolds in real time. Kennedy James is on the run, escaping a tragic past that is preventing her from living in the moment. She seeks refuge in her grandmother’s home who lives in the small town of Tyler, Texas. Kennedy has no plan, but it’s all good because fate has already taken care of that. Enter Travis Broussard.
Travis is a man on a mission: Getting that degree and taking his band The Prototype to the next level. Falling in love is the last thing on his agenda-until he’s almost attacked with a spoon by a brown-skinned thickums named Kennedy. The energy between these two just fly off the page, and just reading about their interaction with one another was so intense at times, that I had to put my Kindle down and take a break!
This story is truly engaging and entertaining from first swipe to the last. There are a few unexpected plot twists and o-m-g moments that will take you by surprise because I thought I had this story all figured out. I like that shit! The music is the backdrop to this love story, and the playlist is off the chain.
January 6, 2023
Whew the connection was strong between these two!!! Just electrifying⚡️⚡️⚡️. Kennedy is looking for a fresh start and picks up with a little more than the clothes on her back and heads to her granny’s house. No longer able to deal with the pain that living in Denver brings she is desperately seeking solace in her new environment. From the very first encounter with Travis the chemistry was like no other. These two spoke a language no one else understood. From music notes to mind reading these two were deeply connected! They experienced their fair share of drama but after it was all said and done they found their way right back to each other! This book has really made me fall in love with this crew! Book one had me on the fence but Kennedy’s story made up for that and then some! I’m excited to dive into Willow’s story because she has me intrigued. She and Devin seem like an odd couple so I’m ready to see how their story will unfold.
May 26, 2016
“Where’s your head at?”
“All over the place.”
“You know you’re my heart, right?”
“It’s not all over the place is it?”
“No. You have it."
Sa-woooooon!!!
4.5 Stars!!!!
I dove into this the minute I had it and adored every up and every down Travis and Kennedy had!!!!
Stay tuned for my full review with Lustful Literature!!!!!!!
“All over the place.”
“You know you’re my heart, right?”
“It’s not all over the place is it?”
“No. You have it."
Sa-woooooon!!!
4.5 Stars!!!!
I dove into this the minute I had it and adored every up and every down Travis and Kennedy had!!!!
Stay tuned for my full review with Lustful Literature!!!!!!!
June 1, 2016
Well, I struggled with this review because I was going to preach and gush, I really was! This book, Finding Kennedy. This author, Jacinta Howard. They're just both that darn good!
Yup, that's it. No flowery words, no verbose text. None of that is really necessary here. Besides, if I had to describe all that I liked about this book this review would take wayyy too long.
Jacinta uses her 'senses' in her writing like no tomorrow. Everything has an image, a fragrance, texture, smell, and sound. Now, I'm a music lover, as Jacinta Howard evidently is as well. So, instead of, wording it out, why not try a metaphor with this review instead?
For me, you know that feeling when a friend recommends you seriously need to check-out a song from a band you've never heard of before, The Prototype. And, when you switch to the track , it runs something like this...
The intro...something about this book's vibe immediately grabs you, like the riffs of the guitar (who's the dude? OK, Travis...and believe me Jacinta's words gonna tell you exactly how sexy and sweet his sound is), then the instrumentation comes in (the return to the band...The Prototype, old characters still doing their sensual creative thing), the base hits that chamber in your gut and resonates just before a voice like none other (who's the chick?...the beautiful, sweet, but hurting...Kennedy) makes your spine quiver, and you are like what the...? Yup, this love story between Kennedy James and Travis Broussard is dripping in all of that sensual descriptive brilliance. It is that good.
Jacinta Howard, for me, both in the knowledgable depth and descriptive breadth of her writing, hits this love story way out the park. She's not just a brilliant perceptive writer; Jacinta Howard is a writer whose soulfulness is evident on every page.
Finding Kennedy was easily the best book I've read so far this year. So, how do you go about rating it? Something my eight year old would say resonated...Give it 6 out of 5 stars! And, I dare any reader not to 'want' to do the same.
Yup, that's it. No flowery words, no verbose text. None of that is really necessary here. Besides, if I had to describe all that I liked about this book this review would take wayyy too long.
Jacinta uses her 'senses' in her writing like no tomorrow. Everything has an image, a fragrance, texture, smell, and sound. Now, I'm a music lover, as Jacinta Howard evidently is as well. So, instead of, wording it out, why not try a metaphor with this review instead?
For me, you know that feeling when a friend recommends you seriously need to check-out a song from a band you've never heard of before, The Prototype. And, when you switch to the track , it runs something like this...
The intro...something about this book's vibe immediately grabs you, like the riffs of the guitar (who's the dude? OK, Travis...and believe me Jacinta's words gonna tell you exactly how sexy and sweet his sound is), then the instrumentation comes in (the return to the band...The Prototype, old characters still doing their sensual creative thing), the base hits that chamber in your gut and resonates just before a voice like none other (who's the chick?...the beautiful, sweet, but hurting...Kennedy) makes your spine quiver, and you are like what the...? Yup, this love story between Kennedy James and Travis Broussard is dripping in all of that sensual descriptive brilliance. It is that good.
Jacinta Howard, for me, both in the knowledgable depth and descriptive breadth of her writing, hits this love story way out the park. She's not just a brilliant perceptive writer; Jacinta Howard is a writer whose soulfulness is evident on every page.
Finding Kennedy was easily the best book I've read so far this year. So, how do you go about rating it? Something my eight year old would say resonated...Give it 6 out of 5 stars! And, I dare any reader not to 'want' to do the same.
June 27, 2016
Megan's Review 4.5 STARS
“I can give you time, Kennedy. I can be patient for you. But I dunno about the space part, baby doll. I don’t know if I can give you that. You’re gonna have to deal with me.”
I love Jacinta’s guys! I love them, and her!!! They always make me smile and fall so lovely. This baby was not the exception. Immediately I couldn’t get enough of Travis and Kennedy and every conversation they had, funny or serious, sentimental or aching I was tuned in.
You know when you highlight or post quotes and other don’t quite get the weight or meaning behind it. But to you it meant something?? Either, feeling or made you smile or heard yourself say ‘awe’….
That’s what I felt. I had so many quotes I could share or post but taken out of context wouldn’t portray the scene. It would have been words pushed together not Travis and Kennedy conversation.
“Why are you up?”
“I never went to sleep. I was up thinking and finally I just decided to get out of the bed.”
“What were you thinking about?”
“You.”
“Were they bad thoughts?”
“No, not at all. And also, yes, absolutely.”
I truly and completely enjoyed Travis and Kennedy as they fell. I even appreciated the almost instant crush they had on one another. It felt so real. Even more so I loved that there wasn’t an immediate jump. They lingered, their longing increased. The reason why, not new or out of the blue but I like how it was handled. I fell again when times went cra cra and Travis was still the guy Kennedy fell for even when she was questioning EVERYTHING.
“I wish you’d talk to me.”
“You’re not available for that. Not any more.”
“I’m here Kennedy.”
“No, you’re not. You’re a ghost too.”
“Travis?”
“Yeah baby?”
“My heart hurts.”
(BTW, that is possibly my favorite line, and once you read it you’ll feel so many emotions from all around. So much lies in these words, in her feelings)
May 31, 2016
While I am not a fan of YA Genre Romance, I really enjoyed this story that features two young adults with a sizzling, soulful instant attraction that immediately grabs the reader and not let go until the end of the story. Kennedy and Travis are two talented, attractive college age millennials who are musically gifted. Kennedy finds herself leaving her home in Colorado and traveling to Texas to live with her insightful grandmother. Trying to overcome a traumatic experience, Kennedy seeks to find inner peace in order to move on with her life. Music plays an important role in this, and Travis proves to be the right man to help her to move on. This was an excellent story written in some of the most exquisite descriptive prose that
I've read in a long time. I highly recommend it.
I've read in a long time. I highly recommend it.
September 25, 2024
I’m enjoying this series. Kennedy and Travis were cute together. Even though Kennedy had experienced trauma in her past, she was open to finding love. Her and Travis were connected from the beginning. Great love story. Ready for the next one.
July 17, 2020
This book wore me out
February 6, 2021
This is my 2nd book by this author and I’m finding that I really enjoy this author’s writing and storytelling and the way she writes about heartbreak and pain is beyond beautiful, and you can tell that her knowledge of music is absolutely stellar. I kept pausing to listen to the songs I didn’t know whilst reading this. In style, I found this to be quite similar to the first book in The Prototype series, however as much as I enjoyed this book, I liked the first one better.
The premise is that Kennedy is on the run from the demons which consumed her in Denver after facing a devastating and traumatic tragedy. When she arrives Tyler, TX to stay with her grandmother, she discovers her neighbors are the up and coming band, The Prototype, and she has an undeniable connection to Travis, one of the band’s guitarists, who is unfortunately unavailable.
I think this was a really entertaining and unputdownable read. It just had a few messy parts in the story that weren’t really to my taste. I wasn’t really a big fan of the love triangles around Travis and Kennedy, and I also couldn’t help but judge Travis in a way for his role in that love triangle. I think it was realistic and the kind of juvenile behavior you expect from a college kid, but it was also the sort of thing that makes me typically avoid romances featuring younger protagonists, whereas in the first book, it didn’t signify to me that they were new adult. In parts, this was a little too messy for me overall. There are some dubious consent elements and some cheatacious elements, but nothing completely irredeemable, I just don’t like the way it played out.. Once again, this book was begging for therapy or counseling to be on the table for the heroine, and even potentially the hero. I feel like after the heroine explained what happened to her, it was never alluded to again and instead the love triangle elements and her “fear” (which to me, wasn’t well-articulated) became her central conflicts. I did ultimately like it and recommend it, but it may not be fore everyone. I am intrigued by Devin and Willow and plan to continue with their book next.
The premise is that Kennedy is on the run from the demons which consumed her in Denver after facing a devastating and traumatic tragedy. When she arrives Tyler, TX to stay with her grandmother, she discovers her neighbors are the up and coming band, The Prototype, and she has an undeniable connection to Travis, one of the band’s guitarists, who is unfortunately unavailable.
I think this was a really entertaining and unputdownable read. It just had a few messy parts in the story that weren’t really to my taste. I wasn’t really a big fan of the love triangles around Travis and Kennedy, and I also couldn’t help but judge Travis in a way for his role in that love triangle. I think it was realistic and the kind of juvenile behavior you expect from a college kid, but it was also the sort of thing that makes me typically avoid romances featuring younger protagonists, whereas in the first book, it didn’t signify to me that they were new adult. In parts, this was a little too messy for me overall. There are some dubious consent elements and some cheatacious elements, but nothing completely irredeemable, I just don’t like the way it played out.. Once again, this book was begging for therapy or counseling to be on the table for the heroine, and even potentially the hero. I feel like after the heroine explained what happened to her, it was never alluded to again and instead the love triangle elements and her “fear” (which to me, wasn’t well-articulated) became her central conflicts. I did ultimately like it and recommend it, but it may not be fore everyone. I am intrigued by Devin and Willow and plan to continue with their book next.
May 22, 2016
Finding Kennedy was a much anticipated book. The second installment in the Prototype series. Travis and Kennedy had a connection that defied logic. It was like a chemistry experiment gone array. The story lived up to and met all my expectations for a good book. 1. It was well-written. 2. The story had a purpose that could be easily discerned. 3. The connection between the couple was just amazing. The story was worth the wait. The backstory with Jersey, Zay, Devin, Willow, Bam and Pepper added to the stories fabric. I recommend this book without a single reservation. I would recommend however that you read Happiness in Jersey before reading this book to be able to follow the story better. I can hardly wait for the next installment.. Bravo Ms. Howard.. You are the WoMan!!!
July 15, 2021
Wow, I’m speechless. I don’t even know how to articulate my thoughts on this read so I’ll come back to this review
THATS how powerful this was, it literally moved me to my core. I had to pause so many times to get my emotions in check. The intensity was just over the moon. I probably felt every emotion there is to feel, even some I didn’t know I was capable of feeling. How lovely it is to find someone that loves all of you, even the ugly parts and still think your a blessing; that’s how Travis saw Kennedy. To love you through faults, through the rain, awkwardness, even days you don’t love yourself, Travis was THAT MAN.
Black women are SO deserving of this type of love
THATS how powerful this was, it literally moved me to my core. I had to pause so many times to get my emotions in check. The intensity was just over the moon. I probably felt every emotion there is to feel, even some I didn’t know I was capable of feeling. How lovely it is to find someone that loves all of you, even the ugly parts and still think your a blessing; that’s how Travis saw Kennedy. To love you through faults, through the rain, awkwardness, even days you don’t love yourself, Travis was THAT MAN.
Black women are SO deserving of this type of love
May 30, 2019
AMAZING. I don’t even have words for this authors writing and this series. Just so good.
June 15, 2025
2.5
This story line was great. 17 year old Kennedy witnessed her boyfriend getting shot in a mass mall shooting. She was the only survivor.
A year later, it seems, she spontaneously leaves home to live with her Gma, Pepper. Almost immediately she meets Travis. Instant connection…
I hated that this book was so sexual driven and that Travis’ character felt like a love bombing stalker. Very possessive in nature. It was supposed to be sexy but all I could see was a problem. While there were some compelling details, they were overshadowed by the sex crazed tempo. So much of this was fast forwarded, that’s why it was such a quick read. I image the rest of the series is much of the same.
This story line was great. 17 year old Kennedy witnessed her boyfriend getting shot in a mass mall shooting. She was the only survivor.
A year later, it seems, she spontaneously leaves home to live with her Gma, Pepper. Almost immediately she meets Travis. Instant connection…
I hated that this book was so sexual driven and that Travis’ character felt like a love bombing stalker. Very possessive in nature. It was supposed to be sexy but all I could see was a problem. While there were some compelling details, they were overshadowed by the sex crazed tempo. So much of this was fast forwarded, that’s why it was such a quick read. I image the rest of the series is much of the same.
March 19, 2024
Messy college drama. I liked it. He’s certain, has passion and a girlfriend. She has ptsd and is searching for her new normal. She finds it in the band. She also finds love.
January 9, 2021
Jacinta got me hooked! This is only my 2nd book from her and I am loving it and wish I didn't wait this long to start! If only my mind set was like this when I was their age, my life would have been different lol. Anyway, Kennedy and Travis' story touched on sensitive topics that was beautifully written by Jacinta and it just made you feel. Made you feel you were with them through all their struggles and successes both with their music, life and with their love for one another.
This was narrated by Wesleigh Siobhan and Jakobi Diem so you know it's on point! Wesleigh did her thing and made me swoon with her male voice...this woman is so talented and has become my favorite female narrator! Jakobi was great with his bayou accent and swoon-worthy alpha tone. You can never go wrong with a novel narrated by these two! On to book 3!
This was narrated by Wesleigh Siobhan and Jakobi Diem so you know it's on point! Wesleigh did her thing and made me swoon with her male voice...this woman is so talented and has become my favorite female narrator! Jakobi was great with his bayou accent and swoon-worthy alpha tone. You can never go wrong with a novel narrated by these two! On to book 3!
May 27, 2016
Kennedy James was suffocating.
She arrived in Tyler, Texas not exactly knowing her path but a fated encounter with Travis Broussard brings her to a crossroad of... finding herself. As she becomes acclimated to her new surroundings, she realizes she was only existing.. until she met Travis. But like with every fast rush, there is a sharp nosedive. When both of their pasts come back to haunt them, will their kismet love crash and burn?
I literally sighed when I finished reading this book. My chest felt kind of achy as book depression settled in ..like "is it really over?" I love when a book can touch me to the point of wanting to know what happens but not wanting to reach the end because then it will be over. And "Finding Kennedy" is def one of those type of books!
Though I have enjoyed all Howard's books, this by far is my favorite book by her. I felt the plot flowed seamlessly with plausible conflict and was paced perfectly to the build of Kennedy and Travis' relationship. Howard is a master at portraying build in a storyline, and there is nothing more that I like than when a story unravels at the seams.
This book was so intense in emotions, I held my breath at some points or would just put it down for a minute to recover. I found myself slowing my reading pace just to adjust to its intensity. Howard evokes raw emotions throughout this entire plot as Kennedy and Travis interacted with each other: her way with words through their dialogue and even a simple stare or facial expression, makes Kennedy and Travis' chemistry so palpable that you can feel it coming up off the pages affecting your own emotions. The sex scenes were all the more hotter because of the passion that the characters had for each other: I was for sure panting while reading some scenes!!
Let me not forget to mention the cameos, that dare I say were needed additions that added so much to the storyline itself. You should definitely read "Happiness in Jersey" to get a feel for how The Prototype came about and how far it has come, not just as a band but in terms of friendships and relationships.
Howard stays true to the characters of Kennedy and Travis. Their trials and tribulations that drived their relationship made for a unique ending that fit them perfectly. I wanted more natually as it was an exceptional read, but know I'll hear more from them in book 3 of this series.
She arrived in Tyler, Texas not exactly knowing her path but a fated encounter with Travis Broussard brings her to a crossroad of... finding herself. As she becomes acclimated to her new surroundings, she realizes she was only existing.. until she met Travis. But like with every fast rush, there is a sharp nosedive. When both of their pasts come back to haunt them, will their kismet love crash and burn?
I literally sighed when I finished reading this book. My chest felt kind of achy as book depression settled in ..like "is it really over?" I love when a book can touch me to the point of wanting to know what happens but not wanting to reach the end because then it will be over. And "Finding Kennedy" is def one of those type of books!
Though I have enjoyed all Howard's books, this by far is my favorite book by her. I felt the plot flowed seamlessly with plausible conflict and was paced perfectly to the build of Kennedy and Travis' relationship. Howard is a master at portraying build in a storyline, and there is nothing more that I like than when a story unravels at the seams.
This book was so intense in emotions, I held my breath at some points or would just put it down for a minute to recover. I found myself slowing my reading pace just to adjust to its intensity. Howard evokes raw emotions throughout this entire plot as Kennedy and Travis interacted with each other: her way with words through their dialogue and even a simple stare or facial expression, makes Kennedy and Travis' chemistry so palpable that you can feel it coming up off the pages affecting your own emotions. The sex scenes were all the more hotter because of the passion that the characters had for each other: I was for sure panting while reading some scenes!!
Let me not forget to mention the cameos, that dare I say were needed additions that added so much to the storyline itself. You should definitely read "Happiness in Jersey" to get a feel for how The Prototype came about and how far it has come, not just as a band but in terms of friendships and relationships.
Howard stays true to the characters of Kennedy and Travis. Their trials and tribulations that drived their relationship made for a unique ending that fit them perfectly. I wanted more natually as it was an exceptional read, but know I'll hear more from them in book 3 of this series.
September 22, 2016
This was my third read by Jacinta Howard and I must say it was the best, and so of course that means I'm a fan.
Someone in a bookclub recommended this to me and I'd actually had it for some time. I read by mood and decided the mood was right for Finding Kennedy.
I'd read book 1 of this series and thought it was pretty good but boy did Howard come to play this time. This installment was a notch above book 1. It's actually better than a 4 and I'll explain my rating later.
Book 1 was really about the story for me. I think I rated it a 4 as well. I didn't really care for the heroine, Jersey, but I understood her if that's possible. I liked Zay but this isn't about them! This is all about Kennedy and Travis (fans self several times at mention of his name).
Kennedy was running away from life. She ran from Denver to Texas. She has experienced something in Denver that had caused her to check out for a spell. It was too overwhelming. She really needed to breathe and it's ironic because that word is used a couple of times in her perspective. When she arrives at Pepper's, her grandmother, a fine as wine band member by the name of Travis Broussard happens upon her. From that moment sparks literally fly and there is this magnetic thing going on.
Of course there are obstacles to their union and it's a very drawing read. It pulls you in and I just couldn't put it down. Travis is something special. I loved how Howard crafted him. It's no secret I'm an alpha male fan girl and Travis wasn't super super alpha but he was just right. He was definitely more so than Zay and I was captured. Reading book 1, Travis wasn't anyone that caught my attention but wow!
This is a really great love story. Maybe even
Love at first sight.... Maybe. It's worth the read.
On the technical side: The editing wasn't as good as book 1. There were several missing words. Was it enough to distract? Not so much, but it was noticeable. I understood everything that was being relayed (mostly) but I think with the caliber of writer I believe Howard to be, I couldn't let that go without mentioning. That's why I gave it less than a perfect score.
Someone in a bookclub recommended this to me and I'd actually had it for some time. I read by mood and decided the mood was right for Finding Kennedy.
I'd read book 1 of this series and thought it was pretty good but boy did Howard come to play this time. This installment was a notch above book 1. It's actually better than a 4 and I'll explain my rating later.
Book 1 was really about the story for me. I think I rated it a 4 as well. I didn't really care for the heroine, Jersey, but I understood her if that's possible. I liked Zay but this isn't about them! This is all about Kennedy and Travis (fans self several times at mention of his name).
Kennedy was running away from life. She ran from Denver to Texas. She has experienced something in Denver that had caused her to check out for a spell. It was too overwhelming. She really needed to breathe and it's ironic because that word is used a couple of times in her perspective. When she arrives at Pepper's, her grandmother, a fine as wine band member by the name of Travis Broussard happens upon her. From that moment sparks literally fly and there is this magnetic thing going on.
Of course there are obstacles to their union and it's a very drawing read. It pulls you in and I just couldn't put it down. Travis is something special. I loved how Howard crafted him. It's no secret I'm an alpha male fan girl and Travis wasn't super super alpha but he was just right. He was definitely more so than Zay and I was captured. Reading book 1, Travis wasn't anyone that caught my attention but wow!
This is a really great love story. Maybe even
Love at first sight.... Maybe. It's worth the read.
On the technical side: The editing wasn't as good as book 1. There were several missing words. Was it enough to distract? Not so much, but it was noticeable. I understood everything that was being relayed (mostly) but I think with the caliber of writer I believe Howard to be, I couldn't let that go without mentioning. That's why I gave it less than a perfect score.
May 25, 2016
Well..... I went through this book like.......
Semi-review: Full review to come. 4.5 stars.
This was book two in the Prototype Series. If you haven't read Happiness In Jersey, be sure to do that. Now on to Finding Kennedy
All I can say is.... When I grow up, I want the chemistry and connection that Travis and Kennedy have. The thing about their attraction to each other is, it was so potent, that it can turn dangerous... quick and fast. They'll have to wield their power with and over each other very carefully!
This book was all about energy, chemistry and the undeniable connection they not only shared with each other, but with their friends and family.
Lesson: At times, we trust our thoughts so much that we block out feelings. It's OK to trust how you feel - you always know the truth by how something feels.
Semi-review: Full review to come. 4.5 stars.
This was book two in the Prototype Series. If you haven't read Happiness In Jersey, be sure to do that. Now on to Finding Kennedy
All I can say is.... When I grow up, I want the chemistry and connection that Travis and Kennedy have. The thing about their attraction to each other is, it was so potent, that it can turn dangerous... quick and fast. They'll have to wield their power with and over each other very carefully!
This book was all about energy, chemistry and the undeniable connection they not only shared with each other, but with their friends and family.
Lesson: At times, we trust our thoughts so much that we block out feelings. It's OK to trust how you feel - you always know the truth by how something feels.
June 4, 2016
Awesome read!
This was my first time reading this author's work and I am truly impressed.
I normally do not enjoy books written with characters that are teens or really young adults (early 20s). Sometimes authors write young people in a way that makes the characters seem silly and naive. That was not the case with Finding Kennedy! The characters were written with such depth. I loved the connection between Travis and Kennedy. Their chemistry jumped off of the page. I also loved how there was enough drama in the story to pull you in, but not so much to make it unrealistic.
The connection between Kennedy and Travis can be summed up perfectly with this quote from Helen Keller, "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart."
This was my first time reading this author's work and I am truly impressed.
I normally do not enjoy books written with characters that are teens or really young adults (early 20s). Sometimes authors write young people in a way that makes the characters seem silly and naive. That was not the case with Finding Kennedy! The characters were written with such depth. I loved the connection between Travis and Kennedy. Their chemistry jumped off of the page. I also loved how there was enough drama in the story to pull you in, but not so much to make it unrealistic.
The connection between Kennedy and Travis can be summed up perfectly with this quote from Helen Keller, "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart."
May 25, 2016
Awesome Read!
I thoroughly enjoyed Kennedy and Travis' story. I love an excellent story where you can just feel the chemistry and connection between two people. Jacinta Howard does that and so much more with this story.
I read Happiness in Jersey and have fallen in love with those Broussard boys.
Jacinta is an excellent writer and I have enjoyed the Prototype Books. I look forward to the next book in the series but in the meantime I will read the Love Always series. I haven't read those yet.
Keep up the excellent work Ms. Howard!
I thoroughly enjoyed Kennedy and Travis' story. I love an excellent story where you can just feel the chemistry and connection between two people. Jacinta Howard does that and so much more with this story.
I read Happiness in Jersey and have fallen in love with those Broussard boys.
Jacinta is an excellent writer and I have enjoyed the Prototype Books. I look forward to the next book in the series but in the meantime I will read the Love Always series. I haven't read those yet.
Keep up the excellent work Ms. Howard!
June 16, 2016
Excellent!!!
Ms. Howard, all I can say is WOW! Excellent book! I couldn't put it down because I wanted to see how it ended. I loved the relationship & chemistry between Travis & Kennedy. It was tangible and real. The passion that was placed in this book brought it to life. Again, excellent job!
Ms. Howard, all I can say is WOW! Excellent book! I couldn't put it down because I wanted to see how it ended. I loved the relationship & chemistry between Travis & Kennedy. It was tangible and real. The passion that was placed in this book brought it to life. Again, excellent job!
May 25, 2016
Compelling Read
I fall more in love with this author's work with each book I read. Her characters are so alive that it encompasses your soul while you're reading it.
When two wounded souls come together and find instant chemistry, you know the storyline will be great. However, Kennedy and Travis' story was so much more. I would highly recommend this and all of her books.
I fall more in love with this author's work with each book I read. Her characters are so alive that it encompasses your soul while you're reading it.
When two wounded souls come together and find instant chemistry, you know the storyline will be great. However, Kennedy and Travis' story was so much more. I would highly recommend this and all of her books.
August 11, 2019
Finding your way.
In my past occupation I've come across many people suffering from Survivor's Guilt, so I'm keenly aware how debilitating it can be. Kudos to this author for tackling an issue that is so topical at this point in time.
Buy it, read it and enjoy.🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾
In my past occupation I've come across many people suffering from Survivor's Guilt, so I'm keenly aware how debilitating it can be. Kudos to this author for tackling an issue that is so topical at this point in time.
Buy it, read it and enjoy.🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾
January 7, 2024
Young Adult/Coming of Age Romance
"There are so many ways to get high... Maybe the one you get addicted to is the one you fell in love with first"
Main Characters: Kennedy James and Travis Broussard. Chemistry, energy, and emotions between the two MC's was amazing. I really like Jacinta Howard's writing. I listened to the audiobook narrated by: Wesleigh Siobhan and Jakobi Diem
Trigger: Most characters in the entire series are dealing with loss and grief.
Series: The Prototype Series - A series about members of an indie soul band
Happiness in Jersey
Finding Kennedy
Keeping Willow
Loving Cassie
"There are so many ways to get high... Maybe the one you get addicted to is the one you fell in love with first"
Main Characters: Kennedy James and Travis Broussard. Chemistry, energy, and emotions between the two MC's was amazing. I really like Jacinta Howard's writing. I listened to the audiobook narrated by: Wesleigh Siobhan and Jakobi Diem
Trigger: Most characters in the entire series are dealing with loss and grief.
Series: The Prototype Series - A series about members of an indie soul band
Happiness in Jersey
Finding Kennedy
Keeping Willow
Loving Cassie
February 7, 2021
Loved this read!!! Oh my goodness I loved this book so much... I don’t think that I was ready for the chemistry between Kennedy and Travis... I never believe in love at first sight but it was their connection to each other that was transcending all reality to something deeper than they could both fathom... They were created for each other... their past lead them to each other and it was a wonderful romance to see blossom... definitely can’t wait for more of them throughout this series
December 16, 2024
Loved these two and the writing. Excellent.
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