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How To Be Someone Else
Sometimes it is the one who knows you best who can love you best. Penny has lived her life letting others take the reins, leaving her to simply follow in line. After completing her senior year of College she'll join her father's marketing firm, get married and start a family. When her parents drop a bomb on her - that they are getting divorced - Penny decides it's time to start living by her own rules. And when she meets mysterious P.J. Hawthorne, a published writer who seems to know much more about Penny than she lets on, she knows this is her chance to finally get her life moving in the right direction. But as questions about her new life overwhelm her, so do thoughts of sweet and gorgeous Alex - who just so happens to be her best friend. What follows is a series of poor decisions, each one more worrisome than the last, forcing Penny further and further away from not only Alex, but from becoming the woman she's sure she's meant to be.
347 pages, Paperback
Published September 12, 2016
1 person is currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Del
4 books40 followersRachel Del is a head-in-the-clouds introvert, homebody and thirty-something writer currently living in Las Vegas, Nevada with her husband and son. Originally from Ontario, Canada she works in publishing and spends her free time reading, writing and drinking far too much black coffee.
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December 11, 2016**Two Boundless Stars** Full Review and rating will be up at Boundless Book Reviews
July 10, 2017
I'm conflicted about this one. The writing was good, but the story itself isn't for me. I found it to be too cheesy and predictable. What I did like about the book was that it was fast-moving. There weren't any unnecessary details slowing down the story line. I'm a big fan of multiple POVs too.
This is the first book I've read by Rachel, and I'd definitely read another. Like I said, the writing is good – it's just not my type of story/genre.
This is the first book I've read by Rachel, and I'd definitely read another. Like I said, the writing is good – it's just not my type of story/genre.
November 9, 2016
What seemed like an interesting, “find yourself” sort of novel, turned out to be an absolute disappointment.
WHAT I LIKED:
- THE IDEA was decent. It could have been written in a more captivating way. Penny, struggling with her parents divorce, the whole life turning upside down – seemed like an interesting plot to start with.
- PJ and her influence as a writer and mentor. Actually an interesting twist at the end of the book when it comes to PJ. Look out for it!
- Penny being an avid reader and a writer. That is something most of us (bookworms) can relay to and enjoy reading about something so close to our hearts.
WHAT I DISLIKED:
- Everything else! The writing was not for me, the spicy scenes was something I did not expect when requesting this book. Alex was annoying. Penny was twice as annoying. The things she struggled over didn’t seem like a big deal for me. Everything was a little bit exaggerated (when I say a little I mean A LOT!). I cringed and I cringed and I cringed some more until the book was over.
Sadly, this book was not for me. I was hoping for some Literary Fiction and instead this is more of a New Adult novel (that I am not particularly fond of).
WHAT I LIKED:
- THE IDEA was decent. It could have been written in a more captivating way. Penny, struggling with her parents divorce, the whole life turning upside down – seemed like an interesting plot to start with.
- PJ and her influence as a writer and mentor. Actually an interesting twist at the end of the book when it comes to PJ. Look out for it!
- Penny being an avid reader and a writer. That is something most of us (bookworms) can relay to and enjoy reading about something so close to our hearts.
WHAT I DISLIKED:
- Everything else! The writing was not for me, the spicy scenes was something I did not expect when requesting this book. Alex was annoying. Penny was twice as annoying. The things she struggled over didn’t seem like a big deal for me. Everything was a little bit exaggerated (when I say a little I mean A LOT!). I cringed and I cringed and I cringed some more until the book was over.
Sadly, this book was not for me. I was hoping for some Literary Fiction and instead this is more of a New Adult novel (that I am not particularly fond of).
December 22, 2016
I voluntarily received a copy, in exchange for an honest review.
Ok, I really really wanted to like this book. I loved the cover for one and it just seemed like it was going to interesting. But unfortunately, it wasn’t for me. Penny just acted insanely juvenile to her parents divorce. I honestly thought she was a teenager. In my mind, that’s what I imagined. But no she’s in her Twenties. Alex, her best friend, whose in love with her. He was just over the top. I understood he cared for her, but it was a little too much.
I could not at all connect to any of the characters. I think the original idea of this story is good. But the characters just did not speak to me. I was more annoyed with them through out the whole story, than anything. And the whole twist with Penny, what?! This is the first book I’ve read of Del’s. I would still give another story a chance. Don’t get me wrong, the writing is well done. But it didn't tug at me emotionally. I feel it was ok, but it could of been better.
Overall, I give this Two Boundless Stars...Lissa
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Ok, I really really wanted to like this book. I loved the cover for one and it just seemed like it was going to interesting. But unfortunately, it wasn’t for me. Penny just acted insanely juvenile to her parents divorce. I honestly thought she was a teenager. In my mind, that’s what I imagined. But no she’s in her Twenties. Alex, her best friend, whose in love with her. He was just over the top. I understood he cared for her, but it was a little too much.
I could not at all connect to any of the characters. I think the original idea of this story is good. But the characters just did not speak to me. I was more annoyed with them through out the whole story, than anything. And the whole twist with Penny, what?! This is the first book I’ve read of Del’s. I would still give another story a chance. Don’t get me wrong, the writing is well done. But it didn't tug at me emotionally. I feel it was ok, but it could of been better.
Overall, I give this Two Boundless Stars...Lissa
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
September 16, 2016
LOVED this book! Rachel never disappoints. Couldn't put it down... I can definitely relate to Penny and I'm sure a lot of readers will feel the same. How to Be Someone Else hits close to home on so many levels. A must read for sure!
October 19, 2016
3.5*
Review to come!
Review to come!
December 11, 2016
How To Be Someone Else is the first novel I've had the pleasure of reading by Rachel Del. The plot and subject struck home for me-like Penny, my parents divorced in my late teens/early twenties and I had a challenging time picking myself up. I think in a lot of ways, when your parents divorce later in life it hits you harder. You begin to question everything you thought you once knew with certainty, because surely if you were wrong about your parents love then you're wrong about everything else...right?
It was a beautifully written novel, and I have to say the plot twist did surprise me! That being said, Penny frustrated me A LOT at times. I wanted to shake her, but at the same time...I understood. As I said above, that sort of thing makes you question everything else. I guess my frustration with Penny came from a few years of wisdom under my belt.
It was a beautifully written novel, and I have to say the plot twist did surprise me! That being said, Penny frustrated me A LOT at times. I wanted to shake her, but at the same time...I understood. As I said above, that sort of thing makes you question everything else. I guess my frustration with Penny came from a few years of wisdom under my belt.
October 20, 2016
Originally posted on The Late Night Reader
[I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review]
How To Be Someone Else is the newest novel by Rachel Del and brings us the story of Penny Williams. She’s always let everyone else make decisions for her, following along as a bystander in her own life. The girl who had her future planned out. She had her boyfriend Matt, whom she was going to marry and have a family with. She was going to graduate college and work at her dad’s marketing firm. That was the plan. Until her parents announced they were getting divorced, turning Penny’s world upside down. This single incident set off a chain of events that had Penny questioning everything in her life. Penny wanted to rid herself of the girl everyone knew. Her boyfriend, Matt, and her best friend, Alex, became casualties in her quest to find her true self. The only one who truly understood her was the mysterious author, P.J. Hawthorne, who offered to help Penny turn her dream of writing a book into a reality. But different and new doesn’t always equal happy.
Penny – I felt Penny’s story is going to be relatable to a lot of people. Who doesn’t question their life at some point, the decisions they’ve made, career choices, all of it. She got lost and ended up pushing away all the wrong people, choosing to surround herself with bad influences. She would frustrate me throughout the book, her choices – some completely
immature at times. I felt her immature decisions lent to the fact that she let so many people make decisions in her life. She was making bad choices you normally see seventeen or eighteen year olds making while they are experiencing their first realities of making decisions on their own. Penny let people do it for her for too long.
Alex – The best friend who is secretly in love with Penny. Willing to take all the terrible behavior and things Penny through his way, knowing she needed him and she would come around and see that. At least he hoped that. Alex could see all the terrible decisions Penny was making, but knew her well enough that she wasn’t going to stop making them just because he asked. I wish we saw a little more of Alex’s life outside of Penny. His time with his sister or his parents. Regardless, he’s one of the good ones.
PJ Hawthorne was great – Penny needed her. I was really pleased with how that played out. For the most part I enjoyed watching Penny on her journey, even though her decision infuriated me. They were all necessary. At some parts, her repetitive bad choices left me annoyed with her and struggling to push through. But I’m glad I did. I wish the book didn’t wrap up so quickly in the end, I would’ve liked to see a little more added in there. Ms. Del
‘s writing was great, the alternating POV gave a little more depth to the characters. The premise of How To Be Someone Else was one I haven’t read in a while – I liked that Penny’s struggles was the main focus and the love story was secondary. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
[I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review]
How To Be Someone Else is the newest novel by Rachel Del and brings us the story of Penny Williams. She’s always let everyone else make decisions for her, following along as a bystander in her own life. The girl who had her future planned out. She had her boyfriend Matt, whom she was going to marry and have a family with. She was going to graduate college and work at her dad’s marketing firm. That was the plan. Until her parents announced they were getting divorced, turning Penny’s world upside down. This single incident set off a chain of events that had Penny questioning everything in her life. Penny wanted to rid herself of the girl everyone knew. Her boyfriend, Matt, and her best friend, Alex, became casualties in her quest to find her true self. The only one who truly understood her was the mysterious author, P.J. Hawthorne, who offered to help Penny turn her dream of writing a book into a reality. But different and new doesn’t always equal happy.
Penny – I felt Penny’s story is going to be relatable to a lot of people. Who doesn’t question their life at some point, the decisions they’ve made, career choices, all of it. She got lost and ended up pushing away all the wrong people, choosing to surround herself with bad influences. She would frustrate me throughout the book, her choices – some completely
immature at times. I felt her immature decisions lent to the fact that she let so many people make decisions in her life. She was making bad choices you normally see seventeen or eighteen year olds making while they are experiencing their first realities of making decisions on their own. Penny let people do it for her for too long.
Alex – The best friend who is secretly in love with Penny. Willing to take all the terrible behavior and things Penny through his way, knowing she needed him and she would come around and see that. At least he hoped that. Alex could see all the terrible decisions Penny was making, but knew her well enough that she wasn’t going to stop making them just because he asked. I wish we saw a little more of Alex’s life outside of Penny. His time with his sister or his parents. Regardless, he’s one of the good ones.
PJ Hawthorne was great – Penny needed her. I was really pleased with how that played out. For the most part I enjoyed watching Penny on her journey, even though her decision infuriated me. They were all necessary. At some parts, her repetitive bad choices left me annoyed with her and struggling to push through. But I’m glad I did. I wish the book didn’t wrap up so quickly in the end, I would’ve liked to see a little more added in there. Ms. Del
‘s writing was great, the alternating POV gave a little more depth to the characters. The premise of How To Be Someone Else was one I haven’t read in a while – I liked that Penny’s struggles was the main focus and the love story was secondary. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
October 20, 2016
How To Be Someone Else by Rachel Del is one of those books that you are unable to put down. The story takes a hold of you and holds you captive until the very end. This is the first book of Rachel’s that I have read and it certainly will not be my last!
The story revolves around Penny and Alex. Both characters have been best friends for the past 9 years, with things never developing further between them. Your brought on quite an emotional journey that many readers may have experienced themselves, as Penny’s world seems to come crashing down around her and in the process she begins to lose who she is. I think most of us have experienced this to some extent as some point in our lives, and this made me fall for the book even more. The fact that Rachel has developed such relatable characters ensures you are right there with them experiencing everything as it all unfolds.
This book has it all, your emotions will become a jumbled mess, and at times I found myself getting so frustrated with the characters and their actions, demonstrating the brilliance of Rachel’s skill as a writer. Her attention to detail throughout ensures the characters come to life while your reading allowing you to get lost in their world.
I loved the element of mystery that also ran throughout the story, giving it an edge over other romances that you read nowadays. It made it exciting, as I wasn’t quite sure where some parts of the story where headed keeping me enthralled!
Ultimately, this story for me was about finding yourself with the help of others, and gaining a bit of confidence to be able to go for what your heart desires, and not settling to try to protect yourself. It was so beautifully written; I have come away feeling very emotional while trying to write this review!
I definitely recommend you lend your time to this book as you certainly wont regret it!
5 super stars!!
The story revolves around Penny and Alex. Both characters have been best friends for the past 9 years, with things never developing further between them. Your brought on quite an emotional journey that many readers may have experienced themselves, as Penny’s world seems to come crashing down around her and in the process she begins to lose who she is. I think most of us have experienced this to some extent as some point in our lives, and this made me fall for the book even more. The fact that Rachel has developed such relatable characters ensures you are right there with them experiencing everything as it all unfolds.
This book has it all, your emotions will become a jumbled mess, and at times I found myself getting so frustrated with the characters and their actions, demonstrating the brilliance of Rachel’s skill as a writer. Her attention to detail throughout ensures the characters come to life while your reading allowing you to get lost in their world.
I loved the element of mystery that also ran throughout the story, giving it an edge over other romances that you read nowadays. It made it exciting, as I wasn’t quite sure where some parts of the story where headed keeping me enthralled!
Ultimately, this story for me was about finding yourself with the help of others, and gaining a bit of confidence to be able to go for what your heart desires, and not settling to try to protect yourself. It was so beautifully written; I have come away feeling very emotional while trying to write this review!
I definitely recommend you lend your time to this book as you certainly wont regret it!
5 super stars!!
October 19, 2016
There are so many things I want to say about this book, but there's so much that can be said that would give away too much.
I have a soft spot for Penny, no one deserves to go through what she went through. Parents going through a divorce is so hard, and in Penny's case I think it is 10 times worse. How she deals with it though? That drove me insane. In this book I loved Penny just as much as a I hated Penny. She was so insightful and real, but at the same time I hated that. The realness of this book was earth shattering. Typically when reading you feel like you are in a fantasy land. Rachel did such a good job capturing the essence of this story that it's almost too real. For this reason it is absolutely one of my favorite books of the year. I could not put it down. I actually would sneak and read a little bit here and there while I was at work so I could finish it.
Now Alex, her best friend. He's the best friend that every girl needs, but how do you not fall for that? Every girl needs her best friend and her lover to be one person, that's the best part about a relationship. Yet, these two are in the friend zone. I felt for him throughout this whole story. It would really be hard to see your best friend go through all of this turmoil and not be able to help. To not have your help be accepted. Sometimes you just need to be there for someone, even if it means doing something your uncomfortable with, and that was Alex. He was there. And for this reason, 80% of this book I wanted to absolutely shake Penny.
I cannot wait for you guys to read this and see what you all think. I loved the whole book so much!
I have a soft spot for Penny, no one deserves to go through what she went through. Parents going through a divorce is so hard, and in Penny's case I think it is 10 times worse. How she deals with it though? That drove me insane. In this book I loved Penny just as much as a I hated Penny. She was so insightful and real, but at the same time I hated that. The realness of this book was earth shattering. Typically when reading you feel like you are in a fantasy land. Rachel did such a good job capturing the essence of this story that it's almost too real. For this reason it is absolutely one of my favorite books of the year. I could not put it down. I actually would sneak and read a little bit here and there while I was at work so I could finish it.
Now Alex, her best friend. He's the best friend that every girl needs, but how do you not fall for that? Every girl needs her best friend and her lover to be one person, that's the best part about a relationship. Yet, these two are in the friend zone. I felt for him throughout this whole story. It would really be hard to see your best friend go through all of this turmoil and not be able to help. To not have your help be accepted. Sometimes you just need to be there for someone, even if it means doing something your uncomfortable with, and that was Alex. He was there. And for this reason, 80% of this book I wanted to absolutely shake Penny.
I cannot wait for you guys to read this and see what you all think. I loved the whole book so much!
February 17, 2017
*
Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
*
I generously received an ARC from YABound Book Tours in exchange for an honest review...
This is the first book that I have been fortunate enough to read from author Rachel Del and I can happily tell you that it will not be my last. When I first came across this book on YA Bound Book Tours I jumped at the opportunity to read and review it. The cover was what immediately drew me to this book and once I read the synopsis I was hooked.
How To Be Someone Else by Rachel Del was a beautifully written story that revolves around self-discovery, friendship and love that follows Penny and Alex’s story of new beginnings. After Penny’s parents announce their plans to divorce she begins questioning what she’s believed to be true her entire life. This book was told in alternating point-of-views that added a new element to the story. I absolutely adored this aspect of the book because I was able to see both sides of this story unfold. Penny and Alex’s story takes us on a journey that captures your attention from beginning to end!
I strongly recommend this book and hope who ever reads it loves it too. To find out what happens in this amazing book pick up your copy today!
I generously received an ARC from YABound Book Tours in exchange for an honest review...
This is the first book that I have been fortunate enough to read from author Rachel Del and I can happily tell you that it will not be my last. When I first came across this book on YA Bound Book Tours I jumped at the opportunity to read and review it. The cover was what immediately drew me to this book and once I read the synopsis I was hooked.
How To Be Someone Else by Rachel Del was a beautifully written story that revolves around self-discovery, friendship and love that follows Penny and Alex’s story of new beginnings. After Penny’s parents announce their plans to divorce she begins questioning what she’s believed to be true her entire life. This book was told in alternating point-of-views that added a new element to the story. I absolutely adored this aspect of the book because I was able to see both sides of this story unfold. Penny and Alex’s story takes us on a journey that captures your attention from beginning to end!
I strongly recommend this book and hope who ever reads it loves it too. To find out what happens in this amazing book pick up your copy today!
October 20, 2016
I started following Rachel Del on Instagram, intrigued by the fact that she is a Canadian writer living in the States, and also that her son is close to Marko's age. I'd interacted with her a few times on Instagram, and then requested a review copy of her upcoming book, How to Be Someone Else.
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I started this book, especially because it was my very first indie read. While it didn't blow me away, it was a very sweet and heartfelt book that hit all the right points for a good contemporary. Rachel Del's writing style is fluid and easy to read, and I flew through the pages. There were a couple of plot twists that I could see coming, but they were still well thought out. In many ways, the book reminded me of Colleen Hoover's coming-of-age type stories (Colleen is the only indie-esque writer that I have experienced, since she used to self-publish) and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it from beginning to end. I scalded my hand quite badly while making tea one evening and this book was the perfect companion as I sat up reading late into the night, my hand soaking in a bowl of cool water. It's a page turner with interesting and compelling characters, and has just the right amount of heart without becoming too sappy.
Highly recommend picking this one up if you're looking for a good new adult read with just the right amount of sexiness and character growth!
Note: An eARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review, but this fact did not influence my opinion of the book in any way.
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I started this book, especially because it was my very first indie read. While it didn't blow me away, it was a very sweet and heartfelt book that hit all the right points for a good contemporary. Rachel Del's writing style is fluid and easy to read, and I flew through the pages. There were a couple of plot twists that I could see coming, but they were still well thought out. In many ways, the book reminded me of Colleen Hoover's coming-of-age type stories (Colleen is the only indie-esque writer that I have experienced, since she used to self-publish) and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it from beginning to end. I scalded my hand quite badly while making tea one evening and this book was the perfect companion as I sat up reading late into the night, my hand soaking in a bowl of cool water. It's a page turner with interesting and compelling characters, and has just the right amount of heart without becoming too sappy.
Highly recommend picking this one up if you're looking for a good new adult read with just the right amount of sexiness and character growth!
Note: An eARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review, but this fact did not influence my opinion of the book in any way.
November 12, 2016
I'd like to thank Rachel Del for providing me the ARC to How To Be Someone Else. This book needs to be made into a movie. I could see Mila Kunis playing Penny and Alex being played by Chris Galya. This story was beautiful and heartbreaking.
Penny is dealing with how to handle her parent's divorce and is on a personal journey trying to overcome that heartache while trying to discover who she really is. She experiences so many emotions - as does the reader. You will fall in love with her passion for becoming a writer.
This plot was strong, moving, inspiring, and beautiful. I loved every single word I read on every page. Penny, of course, was my favorite character but her mother Jill was one that I was in awe of. You'll find out why when you read the book.
This story to me felt personal. You couldn't help but wonder if Rachel put some of her own personal experiences into this. I wouldn't be surprised if that was the case. Her writing was passionate and personal. Rachel Del, it is obvious your poured your heart out when writing this book. I could keep on going about how great this book was but I won't because you have to read it yourself to understand why I need this book in paperback and on my favorites shelf.
I give this book 5+/5 stars. Thank you, Rachel, for writing a story that many can relate to. For Writing from your heart and sharing it with all of us!
P.S. I need a movie. I want to witness Penny and ALex's story on screen!
Penny is dealing with how to handle her parent's divorce and is on a personal journey trying to overcome that heartache while trying to discover who she really is. She experiences so many emotions - as does the reader. You will fall in love with her passion for becoming a writer.
This plot was strong, moving, inspiring, and beautiful. I loved every single word I read on every page. Penny, of course, was my favorite character but her mother Jill was one that I was in awe of. You'll find out why when you read the book.
This story to me felt personal. You couldn't help but wonder if Rachel put some of her own personal experiences into this. I wouldn't be surprised if that was the case. Her writing was passionate and personal. Rachel Del, it is obvious your poured your heart out when writing this book. I could keep on going about how great this book was but I won't because you have to read it yourself to understand why I need this book in paperback and on my favorites shelf.
I give this book 5+/5 stars. Thank you, Rachel, for writing a story that many can relate to. For Writing from your heart and sharing it with all of us!
P.S. I need a movie. I want to witness Penny and ALex's story on screen!
February 8, 2017
This book is one that I had been looking forward to reading - it was one that I had wanted to read because I had read other books by Rachel Del before and I liked them. And this one seemed like it would resonate with me a little bit more.
I liked it, but I feel like I could have liked it more. I think that part of the problem was that I loved Penny so much and I wanted to reach through my Kindle and slap her as I was reading. And another part of me wanted to grab Penny and have her tell me how I should act. Either way, I think it might have hit a little too close to home for me to enjoy it as much as I wanted to originally.
Overall, a good story line and one that is worth looking into. I'm not a huge romance reader and the romance bits weren't constant. BUT, I did find myself wishing that Penny had run to someone besides the person she ran to when her life began to spiral out of her control.
One piece of the book that I wish had been expanded on more was the relationship with PJ. I feel like it could have been so much more interesting and so much more in depth and I want to explore it even more - but I knew not to expect much of that as it isn't the type of story that Del usually writes - but it is what I found myself wanting more of.
Or more of the person that I wish she had run to from the beginning (who I won't name because...spoilers!).
Overall, a good and fun read.
I liked it, but I feel like I could have liked it more. I think that part of the problem was that I loved Penny so much and I wanted to reach through my Kindle and slap her as I was reading. And another part of me wanted to grab Penny and have her tell me how I should act. Either way, I think it might have hit a little too close to home for me to enjoy it as much as I wanted to originally.
Overall, a good story line and one that is worth looking into. I'm not a huge romance reader and the romance bits weren't constant. BUT, I did find myself wishing that Penny had run to someone besides the person she ran to when her life began to spiral out of her control.
One piece of the book that I wish had been expanded on more was the relationship with PJ. I feel like it could have been so much more interesting and so much more in depth and I want to explore it even more - but I knew not to expect much of that as it isn't the type of story that Del usually writes - but it is what I found myself wanting more of.
Or more of the person that I wish she had run to from the beginning (who I won't name because...spoilers!).
Overall, a good and fun read.
February 15, 2017
I love the storyline as it's so applicable to the real world, especially the ups and downs in relationships, friendships, careers... and I love love love happy endings.. I really like how the author writes the inner thoughts of the 2 main characters so that I can fully understand how each of them feels and thinks in every situations. Very good read. Once I started reading it, I was anxious to know the ending and hoping it is a happy ending and yay! Indeed is a happy ending :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2016
This book really resonated with me. I haven’t been in any of the situations Penny finds herself in, but I still saw myself in her somehow. Penny is a thinker and an achiever who hasn’t taken control of her life. When her parents announce their divorce she realizes that she hasn’t ever done anything in her life and sets out to change that. She makes poor decisions (what 21 year old hasn’t) but eventually realizes what she really wants in life.
Alex is Penny’s best friend. He is four years older than her and in a career that he finds unfulfilling. He tries to be there for Penny but she pushes him away.
The connection between Alex and Penny is so sweet. Alex really cares for her and tries to help her and save her from herself. From the first page of the book, I found myself rooting for them to get together, even though they both made decisions at times that had me screaming “stop, you idiot!”
I enjoyed this book so much that I read it in one day. The overarching story is a romance but there is a hint of a mystery with the character of P.J. I wondered from the moment Penny met her what her story was and how it would turn out. I was not disappointed! I recommend this book for adults 18+ who are looking for a sweet and easy read that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Alex is Penny’s best friend. He is four years older than her and in a career that he finds unfulfilling. He tries to be there for Penny but she pushes him away.
The connection between Alex and Penny is so sweet. Alex really cares for her and tries to help her and save her from herself. From the first page of the book, I found myself rooting for them to get together, even though they both made decisions at times that had me screaming “stop, you idiot!”
I enjoyed this book so much that I read it in one day. The overarching story is a romance but there is a hint of a mystery with the character of P.J. I wondered from the moment Penny met her what her story was and how it would turn out. I was not disappointed! I recommend this book for adults 18+ who are looking for a sweet and easy read that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 12, 2016
*I received an ARC from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.*
This is the first full-length novel from Rachel Del, and I really enjoyed it! The story centers on Penny, a young woman whose life and future are thrown into question when her parents announce they are getting a divorce. What follows is her journey of trying to take control of her life, making mistakes and great revelations in the process. I thought the characters in this novel were so relatable, and Rachel really captured what it feels like when you're young and trying to figure out who you want to be (and all the bad decisions you can make on your journey to get there). I loved the relationship between the two main characters, Penny and her long-time best friend Alex, although their lack of realization of their feelings for each other drove me crazy! Haha. The character of PJ, a writer who assists Penny with realizing her dreams, gave the story an interesting and surprising twist as well. The setting of Las Vegas and references to different places throughout the valley was also cool for me, being a Vegas local for the last 19 years. All in all, I thought this was a great first novel, and I will definitely be reading Rachel's future work!
This is the first full-length novel from Rachel Del, and I really enjoyed it! The story centers on Penny, a young woman whose life and future are thrown into question when her parents announce they are getting a divorce. What follows is her journey of trying to take control of her life, making mistakes and great revelations in the process. I thought the characters in this novel were so relatable, and Rachel really captured what it feels like when you're young and trying to figure out who you want to be (and all the bad decisions you can make on your journey to get there). I loved the relationship between the two main characters, Penny and her long-time best friend Alex, although their lack of realization of their feelings for each other drove me crazy! Haha. The character of PJ, a writer who assists Penny with realizing her dreams, gave the story an interesting and surprising twist as well. The setting of Las Vegas and references to different places throughout the valley was also cool for me, being a Vegas local for the last 19 years. All in all, I thought this was a great first novel, and I will definitely be reading Rachel's future work!
October 4, 2016
I was fortunate enough to get my hands on an ARC of Rachel Del’s upcoming release, How To Be Someone Else, which is a New Adult romance novel that chronicles the whirlwind of catastrophe and discovery that follows Penny Williams upon the announcement of her parents’ divorce.
Though I’ve never experienced most of the events that Penny does, I found myself easily empathizing with her. Growing up and learning to walk in your brand new adult shoes is hard and confusing. There is always that line between doing what you’re “supposed” to do and doing what you want that a new adult needs to learn to walk.
Penny’s struggles are relatable—the sudden separation of family, a perfect-on-paper-only boyfriend, coming to terms with flaws in others, especially those you believed to be incapable of malfunction, turbulence in friendships, messy, spontaneous mistakes, and misjudged remedies to all of life’s problems. We’ve all been there. We’re all learning and growing and just trying to figure adulthood out and Penny’s illustrates the chaos wonderfully.
Read my full review here: http://theresasopko.com/2016/10/04/re...
Though I’ve never experienced most of the events that Penny does, I found myself easily empathizing with her. Growing up and learning to walk in your brand new adult shoes is hard and confusing. There is always that line between doing what you’re “supposed” to do and doing what you want that a new adult needs to learn to walk.
Penny’s struggles are relatable—the sudden separation of family, a perfect-on-paper-only boyfriend, coming to terms with flaws in others, especially those you believed to be incapable of malfunction, turbulence in friendships, messy, spontaneous mistakes, and misjudged remedies to all of life’s problems. We’ve all been there. We’re all learning and growing and just trying to figure adulthood out and Penny’s illustrates the chaos wonderfully.
Read my full review here: http://theresasopko.com/2016/10/04/re...
October 2, 2016
*I received an ARC from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.*
I truly loved this book. As someone who has been through a lot of crazy life happenings outside of my control, I really identified with Penny's struggle and thought process. Rachel captured perfectly the way it feels to have your whole world tilt when your life is ripped apart, and the intense struggle to right it. The internal battle between saying "fuck it, I'm just going to do my own thing and not care," and actually letting yourself feel your feelings and process through them is also beautifully illustrated.
This is a book I know I will read again, and I would highly recommend this book (and others by Rachel Del) to anyone who enjoys romance against the backdrop of life's many complications.
I truly loved this book. As someone who has been through a lot of crazy life happenings outside of my control, I really identified with Penny's struggle and thought process. Rachel captured perfectly the way it feels to have your whole world tilt when your life is ripped apart, and the intense struggle to right it. The internal battle between saying "fuck it, I'm just going to do my own thing and not care," and actually letting yourself feel your feelings and process through them is also beautifully illustrated.
This is a book I know I will read again, and I would highly recommend this book (and others by Rachel Del) to anyone who enjoys romance against the backdrop of life's many complications.
October 18, 2016
This book sounded really promising, but it did fall a little short for me. The biggest problem being that I could not connect with any character in this book. I thought that Penny totally over reacted to her parents divorce for a 21 year old. I felt like I was reading a YA book starring adult characters. There was nothing that really drew me to Alex either.
The plot twist really got me. I most definitely did not see it coming, but it also did not work for me. It seemed terribly forced and tossed aside once it came to fruition.
The writing was pretty good. The story flowed really well, and I did enjoy the ending. But overall this book did not quite meet my expectations.
The plot twist really got me. I most definitely did not see it coming, but it also did not work for me. It seemed terribly forced and tossed aside once it came to fruition.
The writing was pretty good. The story flowed really well, and I did enjoy the ending. But overall this book did not quite meet my expectations.
October 20, 2016
Multiple POVs
Penny. Alex. Matt. Two duos of friends. Alex and Penny. Penny and Matt. Alex and Matt, not so much. I like the way this story played out. The beginning gave us insight into Penny's newest tragedy, the break up of her family. She thinks differently than she speaks, which is a realistic trait. I liked this story and how the characters were real, very real. Real emotions, real chemistry and real thoughts. "I did it because I needed a reminder. I needed to know that I was still in there somewhere, that I could do something just because I wanted to. Because I felt like it. And not because anyone else had told me to." ~ Penny. I liked the story and the ending even better.
Penny. Alex. Matt. Two duos of friends. Alex and Penny. Penny and Matt. Alex and Matt, not so much. I like the way this story played out. The beginning gave us insight into Penny's newest tragedy, the break up of her family. She thinks differently than she speaks, which is a realistic trait. I liked this story and how the characters were real, very real. Real emotions, real chemistry and real thoughts. "I did it because I needed a reminder. I needed to know that I was still in there somewhere, that I could do something just because I wanted to. Because I felt like it. And not because anyone else had told me to." ~ Penny. I liked the story and the ending even better.
October 22, 2016
This was a great story from Rachel Del. This the first book I have read from the author but I really enjoyed it.
The story is really about Penny and the journey she goes on the find herself. The story is well written and had a good pace. I found it really easy to connect with Penny and I think it was because the author really allowed us to get to know Penny as a women and the journey she was going on. The sotry had me hooked and I wanted to keep reading. It was an emotional story at times and I think the story will stay with me for a while .
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
The story is really about Penny and the journey she goes on the find herself. The story is well written and had a good pace. I found it really easy to connect with Penny and I think it was because the author really allowed us to get to know Penny as a women and the journey she was going on. The sotry had me hooked and I wanted to keep reading. It was an emotional story at times and I think the story will stay with me for a while .
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 22, 2016
This was the first book of Rachel's I've read and I have to say it makes me want to read everything else she's written. It's a must dive in and read because she creates a beautiful story about finding yourself, learning to fall in love, and how to comeback from the mistakes you might make.
Penny's story is one so many women can relate to, and hopefully be reminded that as we find ourselves going through these transitions we must continue to offer ourselves second chances. Another chance at life, love, and happiness. We are all entitled to these things if we are willing to fight for them.
Penny's story is one so many women can relate to, and hopefully be reminded that as we find ourselves going through these transitions we must continue to offer ourselves second chances. Another chance at life, love, and happiness. We are all entitled to these things if we are willing to fight for them.
December 18, 2016
Ah! This book! Rachel is masterful in her characterization of Penny and Alex, balancing both of their voices in a beautiful way. I love this story. I love this ending.
Probably my favorite line: "Your life is just more... textbooks and plaid, button down shirts."
This is a great journey of a book, and I think Rachel did a fantastic job of showing authentically human reactions and interactions. You're not going to want to put this down!
Probably my favorite line: "Your life is just more... textbooks and plaid, button down shirts."
This is a great journey of a book, and I think Rachel did a fantastic job of showing authentically human reactions and interactions. You're not going to want to put this down!
October 26, 2016
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. I fell in love with Rachel's characters in her other books, and I wasn't wrong in thinking I'd love this book just as much. Penny's story is one that I think many women can relate to, and that mixed with such a good story made this book a huge hit for me.
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