Lilienne Altamirano is not your typical probinsyana. Taliwas siya sa stereotype ng mga probinsyanang mahinhin at mahiyain. She's a wanderess. A lioness. She can tame every sheep. And she can't be tamed. By anyone. Or probably by anything. Or that's what she thought. Dahil may isang bagay na hindi niya kayang gawin. Isang taong hindi niya kayang paamuin. Iyon ang pinagtuonan niya ng pansin. All her steps, little by little, are leading to him. Dahil, hindi, hindi siya naniniwala na hindi niya iyon kayang gawin. She can do it, you see. She's Lilienne Altamirano!
She thinks she'll succeed, only to find out that she didn't tame him, he tamed her. She toppled, stumbled... complete with bruises... and the pieces of her heart were scattered on the ground... Because it was all too late. It's all too late. She tripped. Alone. Fell. All alone. Gone. Alone.
She made sure she won't make the same mistakes again. Alegria, she'll be back with the bruises all healed and her heart whole again. She vowed to never fall again. That's for sure now. But then again... she tripped.
Jonahmae Pacala (publishing as Jonaxx) was never fond of reading longnovels during her elementary years but found a deep connection with sshort sad stories. She discovered her flair for writing at the early age of ten. What was once a hobby has now grown into a passion for writing online.
I am not really that good with controlling myself eh? Because just after one night, I already indulge myself with this story. I guess Jonaxx cast a spell on me? Hehe
I am really excited to read this story because Lilienne (main female character) was mentioned on Ripped, which is the book 2 of Alegria Girls series, and I really thought she was Leon's ex-girlfriend, haha. I am curious on how this story will go and I have to say that it was quite different to other books from Jonaxx that I've read. Why is that? Because the heroine in this story is somewhat a rebel. I'll tell you more about it in a few minutes.
And speaking of Leon, I'm still having a little hangover from the second book while reading this story that's why whenever Leon was mentioned, I can't help but squeal in delight. Also, it was nice to know that he and Freya is finally having their happily ever after with their 2 kids. Isn't that just nice? I was really hoping that Knoxx or the Montefalco cousins would be present here, but to my dismay, they're not.
But it's not that bad at all, why? Because this story is so damn good that it made me act like a retard again. You want me to elaborate it? Well, let me start with me not being with my usual self which actually started last Saturday evening, being agitated, so excited, frustrated, and because of too much emotion, it keeps me jumping and squealing at the same time. Haha, now tell me, what kind of book will make you do all that?
Just like the first two books from the Alegria Girls series, this book was also composed of 50 chapters plus the epilogue which is all taken from the guy's POV. This story started so casual. I also love how refreshing the characters especially the main female lead is. I'm not really into stories where the girl is the one who's pursuing the guy. Haha, I just simply don't like the logic, I guess I'm stuck in the older era where it is the guy who's making the move eh? I know, I should be realistic, but it's fiction, I can always think what I want, blee! But so far, the part where the girl is pursuing the guy didn't annoy me at all. I guess it's because this story is so well written that you'll forgot that you don't like that idea at all. And it also helped that the efforts of Lilienne was worth it, ayeeeiii, can't help but smile on those scenes.
Surprisingly, I love the story line. I know I told you I am not a fan with stories where the girl is the one who's pursuing the guy, but it's just rewarding to read that all her efforts were paid off, though it took her 8 years to finally claim her prize. As usual, all the scenes in this story were unpredictable and not cliché. You'll absolutely feel loved because almost all chapters in this story have that "kilig" worthy scenes that will sure make you squeal in delight.
Despite how I loved this story, I have to say that the conflict made me drop 1 star making it a 4-star rating. The part where the girl is pushing the guy away from her is really annoying. I know, that part is justifiable because of what happened to her but I just don't like it. I just don't like drama. It ended up hurting both of their feelings and it's breaking my heart especially when Riguel plead. Actually, I already broke my heart when I found out that Yeshua (Lilienne's twin brother) died. Writing it here really makes me eyes moist. Huhu. I don't want to elaborate more about it for I'm afraid I'll sob. Of all the three books in the Alegria Girls serries, this book really made me cry, I almost sob actually, good thing I was able to suppress it.
For the characters:
Lilienne a kind of girl that isn't following what other people are telling her to follow. She believes that both men and women are equal. But she started to change little by little when she found out that her admiration for Riguel was not just a simple admiration but, she's in love. But something happened that made her stronger. Her transformation from being a rebel to the girl she is now is quite great actually, it makes her character more realistic.
Riguel on the other hand is the exact opposite of Lilienne. He's intelligent and almost all the girls worships him. Who would have thought that he would also fall for Lilienne eh? Btw, I almost forgot to mention. In the POV, I thought all of his feelings will be revealed. But unlike the first two books in the Alegria Girls series, I just think Riguel's part wasn't properly introduced. I just think there's still missing.
Even after all the things that happened to Lilienne, I'm just so relieved to know that her bestfriend Suki is still by her side, even Nicholas, the playboy brother of Leon. Surprising isnt it? Can't wait to read his story and Suki's too, which I hope Jonaxx will write soon.
And the thing that I also noticed about this story is that the SPG scenes here were so intense and they're quite many, haha. I didn't feel harassed at all, Jonaxx wrote it nicely that you wouldn't feel violated, actually, I find it quite kilig, haha lol. (erase erase the shower scene to my system please, haha)
Overall, this story is a kind of story that I will find myself rereading in a few days. Well, actually all Jonaxx's novels are. I hope there's still more in this series.
Riguel!! Riguel 'the standard' Alleje. I'm completely smitten with this story. I've been rereading this for at least a thousand times. I highly recommend this book.
My all time favorite book ever! I have never been attached to book character, but, this book definitely changed that. My whole perspective in life changed because of the female main character here: Lilienne Ylena Altamirano. I now understand why Jonaxx’s readers called her the most bravest and strongest Jgirl, it’s because she truly is. I have to another word to express how good this book is. Definitely my favorite Jgirl and female main character(I’ve tried to read so many books, just so I can get rid of Lilienne and Riguel out of my mind even just for a minute. I failed. Miserably.) It almost felt like I was watching a movie while reading this book. This story is one heck of a roller coaster. I cried with the characters as if I know them in real life, mourn with them, and celebrate happiness when they’re happy. Thank you, Jonaxx, for writing this beautiful story. I never thought that a book would save me during my darkest times. For Lilienne, thank you for being my inspiration to continue life. If you survived all of that, why can’t I? After all, your my favorite character. Lastly, for Riguel, thank for setting up my expectations on men so high, that I now think I will be single forever, not unless I find someone like you. Ate J, I only have one question, when is this book will be publish? From your dearest readers, not patiently waiting( kidding aside.) Just go read this book, with open mind, and enjoy the ride. You will certainly need to a bucket or tissue by your side.
I don’t have to explain why this book is five star. I will leave it like that. Love love love this book. This is the book that I will tell my future spouse, future children, and future grandchildren ( because I already told my family. And I think they’re done with me. I mean, I just can’t stop talking about this book to everyone. Even my friends knows how this story goes, they’re not even Filipino. Lol.) honestly, don’t understand people who will rate this book or even hate the book, or more like hate the main character ( I MEAN, WHAT?!). But, I guess, we all have different opinions and I respect that ( or do I? I think, I will at least slightly change someone if they hate this book. Just slightly. Lol. O-o) Just go read this book. Sure, you will not regret it. And the female main character here? Ugh. I’m inlove with her, more than the male character.
Where would I even begin?. First of all, I just want to say that this book is incredibly beautiful!, it is indeed a masterpiece by Jonaxx. I am absolutely in love with this book. Words are not enough to express my love for this book. This book became my comfort book for four years!. I have never read a book before, that I'm so attached to it. I am usually not a "re-reader" type, but boy oh boy this book turned me into one. I remember vividly reading this book upon reading the summary, I fully dive into this book not knowing that this book will change my life( may sound dramatic, but it actually did). This book is just chef kisses. I am so in love with the characters, I mean who wouldn't with the heroine that is so strong, brave, powerful. And the hero that is a standard. I am fully aware that people "hype up" the hero more, which I find kinda odd because the heroine deserves it too!.
Let's first talk about my ultimate bias and will forever be engraved in my soul; Lilienne Ylena Altamirano. I adore her so much. She is not our typical probinsyana girl, as a matter of fact, she is the opposite of it. She is witty, out-going, wild, she believes that men and women should be equal. If men can do it, why women can't. She doesn't care about her education that much as you can see at the beginning of the chapter. Her character captivates me from every beginning, she is different from all Jonaxx female characters. But, slowly as she gets to know the hero, her perspective in life slowly changed( for the better), she started studying, etc.
What I didn't expect was what happened to her- I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll give it like that. I sobbed in this book at 3 am. The very first book that made me feel all the emotions was so raw, and heartbreaking. I didn't expect it. I cried with Lilienne, I remember that moment I just want to dive into her story and hug her( I mean, even now). She doesn't deserve all of that. Yet, she survived it all by herself. All I want Lilienne to be happy because she deserves it! more than anyone. And that's where the title of the story makes sense: Tripped. Wala akong masabi kundi ang galing talaga ni ate J!.
Now, to the hero; Riguel. I will admit at the first I got annoyed with Riguel's action. I mean how hard is it to admit that you like someone?, especially that Lilienne already admitted it. But, thankfully he explained it to his POV. Only I wish na naging vocal more si Riguel about his feelings to Lili from the very beginning. But, oh well, I guess the story wouldn't flow as it is.
Characters: Chef kisses, the main characters: Lilienne and Riguel are both perfection, I couldn't ask for more. Although, people are more captivated with Riguel, I am honestly more captivated and in love with Lilienne's character. I have never read a book that I'm more in love with the heroine than the hero. Pero wala eh, si Lilienne kasi. I also think that no other character male or female can change that. Lilienne is just different.
I also just wish that this story has more, pero pwede ba ung happy moments na lng, as in wala ng sakit?. One of the reason why I look forward for this book to get publish, I just want to see Lilienne to be happy as well as Riguel kung saan bubuo na sila ng sarili nilang pamilya. Hopefully, ma publish na ung series na to and mag karon din sana ng second gen because I want to more Lilienne and Riguel.
Thank you ate J, for creating this series and story, specifically these characters. Lilienne taught me a lot. - I know this review is all over the place and long, I just really want to express my love for this book. I will be editing this soon.
2.5 or 3 stars Typical love story, nothing seemed special to me, and I somehow found hard to get attached to the characters. There were parts that I got bored to the point that I just rolled my eyes. I hated the protagonist because of her wrong decisions and quick change of mind and I found this story unrealistic as a whole but I felt the fluff I wanted and the author delivered it well.
I don't want to bother her writing style anymore. It wasn't bad and it wasn't good either, I just found it so basic and it could've written more widely and vividly. I hated that she changes languages midsentence, from Tagalog to English. I'm tired of pointing out and correcting typos because there are TOO MANY.
The way I see this story, it is a love story that depicts on how people cope up when inevitable event happened wherein they are uncertain for unknown things in which they couldn't even help but to wonder where it will lead them, if it is worthy or not. I am impressed how they handle their problems and being firm to their decisions. And also how each one of them trying to achieve their goals in life that they can sacrifice anything for it.
4.5 stars. Rating is a bit biased because I seriously love this series. But I'm not gonna lie, this is one of Jonah's best works. Although it didn't work that much for me, I just wanted Lillienne to be happy. Because she deserves it.
I'm surely going to miss Alegria. I'd wait for the second gen books, though. Alegria will always be my home.
I honestly believe that this is one of Jonah's best works. It is the best in the whole Alegria Series. The narration was not very poetic, and it matched Lilienne's character. It was like Lilienne was telling me her story, and not Jonah telling Lilienne's story. The angst and romance of this book, god. I loved it. I love it. So much.
This book was very very painful to read. I can't count how many times I've read this but I, with no doubt, cried every time. The rising action was very intense that I could not do anything but anticipate the pain that the conflict would cause me.
"All of these, Lilienne... Yes, I want to become successful because I want to equal your lifestyle. Because I want you to lay in bed, every night, with no worries with me..." This probably is the most romantic line in the entire book. Just Riguel professing his profound love, the things he'd do, and the lengths he'd go just to provide Lili the BEST future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Naiinis ako sa ibang jsl na minumura at pinag sasalitaan ng kung ano ano si Lili nung nag umpisa nang sumakit yung ulo ni Yeshua. I hate them so much istg. Hindi naman manghuhula si Lili para malaman kung ano ba talagang nangyayare sa twin niya. Lalo na don sa part na tumawag si Yesh kay Lili. Awang awa rin ako kay Yesh that time pero yung iba sa com sec sa jonapp nakakairita na. Yes, gustong pauwiin ni Yesh si Lili that time pero alam ba ni Lili yung kondisyon niya? Kung ako nasa posisyon ni Lili tapos malay ko bang ganoon ang kapatid ko, iisipin ko nag papalambing lang e uuwi naman ako sa bahay mamatay. E itong si Riguel parang once in a lifetime lang ganon.
It’s been a long time since I’ve read some local books that I even find some of my favorites are now a bit meh😅 This is what scares me everytime I’m considering reading some of my favorite local books because I just want my opinions stay as they are. But here we go. I rated this book 5 stars before, and after rereading it, I changed it to 4.5! Still a pretty good read though! Still love the characters and the story! Still made me tear up a bit🥺
this story made me realize a lot of things. first is to treasure your family and have quality time with them you'll never know hanggang kailan lang tayo mabubuhay, second is to think about others not just ourselves, i'll surely bring all these lessons i've learn fron this story forever. see you you again mr. and mrs. alleje ma mimiss ko kayong dalawaaaa, bye bye tripped thank you alegria girl series see you yesterday :((
4.5!!!!!! I actually loved this book so much. It made me laugh so hard! It is the best book among all the books of AGS (in my opinion of course). Riguel is officially my favorite (hmmm tie with jacob i think) jonaxx hottie. HAHAHA! I'm a sapiosexual. ;) I think I will post a more detailed review of the three books soon. :)
Is was my 3rd time re-reading this book and It's still so good. I will not get tired of re-reading this book again. Riguel Alleje is walking green flag, please I love him so much. Lilienne is one of the strong woman I adore so much, Imagine all of the grief and the acceptance she faced when she was in US. If you guys are planning to read this, go and don't hesitate! It's worth reading.
I love reading this, no actually I've been so stuck with the stories. I cant move on. Im on my knees, I'm tripped and can't stand up. Im so inlove towards Riguel, who set my standard too high. And to my baby Lilienne, I'm in love with you so much. I enjoy it, no enjoy is an understatement. I'm being inlove to the point that I can't stop loving it. A worth to read.
this is a reread. i first read this way back in 7th grade. with my naiveté and lack of experience, Riguel seemed like the most perfect man to ever exist, lmao. i still love his character, but i've started to notice a lot of flaws. he's incredibly traditional and conservative. still love him— just sharing my two cents. fun reread! made me lose a night of sleep!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is literally my favorite in Alegria Girls Series. I can't count how many times I've read it. Kapag namimiss ko si Riguel at Lilienne and kapag nakakakita ako ng post abt them sa fb or twt ire-read ko nanaman ulit. I think this is my most reread na stories ni ate j!! AAAAH ily jonaxx mwah! <33
So far This is the Best among the best of jonaxx’s storiI have read so far…..the plots, characters and all are just superb…no words can further explain how I love this story so much…If I was watching a show, I already dis my standing ovation with a deafening applause…excellent masterpiece!!!
lili and riguel are literally my baes, riguel is the standard and i want to be lili because she’s so brave, i need the book published and i am willing to create a shrine for this book and put it my hollywood walk of fame for books
I’ve read this book more times than I can count, and yet somehow, it still made me cry. I know Jonaxx’s stories aren’t for everyone, and that’s totally fair—it all comes down to personal taste. But personally, I’ve always enjoyed her works, and this one was no exception. I loved following their journey from high school all the way to the present. Out of the three installments in the series, this one’s definitely my favorite. Fourth and Freya will always have a special place in my heart—though I can’t say the same for Knoxx (sorry, not sorry!). It was worth to read, I can't wait for AGS to be published!!