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Something Blue
In the city of Monopolis where happily ever after is just a scientific formula away, Valentine Morland has been waiting nine years for her day to come. Now it’s here, and she will marry the man of her dreams, a stranger to her, before being swept off to life of carefree luxury and bliss, courtesy of the Jigsaw Project. However, all is not as Valentine imagined as her new husband is quickly discovered as not the man of her dreams, but one who claims he isn’t capable of love at all. Harbouring an intense paranoia for the system, which upholds the very idealist fantasy that Valentine holds so dear, Clark threatens to throw her into a world, not of bliss, but of scary consequence where her every emotion is under scrutiny. Can it be that the scientific formula with a 99% success rate got it all wrong, or is everything in the world of Bliss Inc. more sinister than it seems?
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2017
136 people are currently reading
590 people want to read
About the author
Kristy Nicolle
25 books215 followersHi, I’m Kristy Nicolle, a 27-year-old British writer achieving freedom from the pain of my Ehlers Danlos Syndrome diagnosis by bringing fantasy worlds to life for my readers. I currently enjoy spending time in my fuzzy PJs with my kitty arch nemesis, Moo, and love all things mermaids, unicorns, and glitter! My books centre around high detail, high action fantasy worlds, full of badass female characters who love to get steamy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 31, 2019
I'll keep updating because GR is censoring this review.
3.5 safe stars? or 4 we need more dystopian romance stars? Either way, I recommend this book if you like:
♣ Safe books with no cheating, no OW, no slutshaming, no stupid separations.
♣ Slow burn romances that are different than the overdone virgin-manwhore combo
♣ Arranged marriage. Please tell me that it isn't sexy when heroine will have to spend her time with a gorgeous stranger that also happens to be her new husband.
♣ Interesting dystopian societies, interesting dystopian romances
♣ Virgin heroes matched up with Virgin heroines. To be honest that was never clarified, but in my mind he was a virgin. Or did I miss something?
♣ Descriptive writing.
♣ Incredibly sexual tension, and fade to black sex-scenes. Fans of "clean" romance, I think this one might be right on your alley because
And that's the reason I can't rate this book 5 stars. I prefer more sex in my books. The fade to black sex scene frustrated me after the author has set up such INCREDIBLE sexual chemistry between her leads. Author describes everything in this world in (for me) Unnecessary detail, but when it comes to the moment I had been waiting for since the wedding dance (BEST wedding SCENE EVER) she decided it to leave it to my imagination. It's particularly frustrating because Something blue ISN'T MARKETED AT CHILDREN 11-13 years old as many new adult books published by the big five publishing houses are. Many books lately are marketed as YA and send to the children's section of bookstores and middle grade libraries.
Case in point, A court of Mist and Fury which contains more p@rnogr@phic scenes than many Harlequins and Erotica books I've read. You can check the preview if you don't believe me, the debauchery starts on chapter 3.
Something blue is marketed towards adults and new adult readers so I don't understand why we didn't get more detailed sex scenes. At least one would have been great. After so many misunderstandings with Valenitine and Clark I felt like I deserved it. But my overall impression is that this book worked well even without it. And if this author gets more betareaders who read primarly romance(not editors, betas) she's one you don't want to miss. Her writing style really conveys the emotions and personal conflicts of her characters in an effective way... effortlessly!! I was so hurt when Valentine was hurt, so intrigued by Clark after their first dance, so worried about the cute best friend of our heroine. I've seen so many authors struggling with the emotional part of the writing craft, and that wasn't a problem here.
I really enjoyed this book which was a recommendation of one of the Good reads reviewers I respect the most. I don't know what I would do without Kriss. She writes detailed reviews and has a lot of knowledge of the Kindle Unlimited library. She always recommends to me interesting books that I wouldn't have discovered otherwise. So far all her recommendations have worked for me. I borrowed this one initially, but I ended up buying my own copy because I know I'll need to reread this one. Thank you Kriss for the book recommendation.
What is this book about? A futuristic society has discovered the key to eliminate crime and unhappy marriages. For me this isn't as much a dystopia at first, but it looks like an Utopia. Only certain people will be allowed to marry and therefore only certain people will be allowed to reproduce. No more abortions, no more neglected children, no more cheating, no more divorces, no more mass shooting, no more misunderstood terrorists who needed to be held more by their mothers at childhood, no criminals. If you're single, There's a formula that discovers your perfect match. If you're paired up to someone you move to a city of singles of your own gender. You study every day to become the best wife/husband you can become. You won't get married until you're ready. When you're ready your wedding will be sponsored by Bliss inc, the multimillionaire company that runs the matching tests. You meet your selected husband during the wedding ceremony. One of my co-workers is Vietnamese and she says that this is how she married her husband. They've been married decades and they seem so happy. The idea of arranged marriage has always fascinated me. So the setting of this book was really intriguing for me, I was hooked from the beginning.
Valentine, our heroine is 25 and has been in the preparation program way too long, all of her friends have married already and have become mothers already. Valentine has placed all her hopes for a better future, all her dreams in her trust on the matching program. Surely they won't make a mistake with her? Why the delay? Is she not ready? Is her perfect match the one who isn't ready yet?
The day she's told she and her partner are finally ready and a date is set for her wedding it's the day Valentine starts to question this system. Some things aren't adding up but she puts all her doubts aside, she needs to be ready for her wedding day. The preparations for the wedding were really fun to read, and when we have Valentine finally walking up the aisle ready to meet her perfect match I was as excited and nervous as she was.
Enter Clark, the groom. A gorgeous, broody guy with gorgeous blue eyes. He's as cold as he's mysterious, Valentine is torn. Is she attracted to this gorgeous guy who is cold and really rude to her? Unintentionally, Clark has humiliated her in front of all of her guests. He didn't even realized what he has done. Valentine would runaway if she could but then the first dance comes. I have to tell you, that first dance is the best wedding dance scene I've ever read. It's steamy, oozes of sexual chemistry between the leads. After that dancing scene I was sold. Honestly the fist 50% of the book that includes a honeymoon full of sexual tension made me SCREAM to my kindle something along the lines of WHY ISN'T THIS BOOK MORE POPULAR??????
Unfortunately after another beautiful dancing scene during the honeymoon just when I thought the buildup was leading me to a steamy, well-deserved sex scene things turned out to become repetitive. I thought Clark and Valentine were past misunderstandings and then they go to Couples therapy and she does things that make me question her. She went on and on in her mind about her husband's paranoia against Bliss Inc, what made her think blurting out his confidences to a Bliss Inc employee would work? And the way he responded to their problems was weak, in my opinion. I also think that if the sex scene had come during the honeymoon all the revelations and misunderstanding of the second half of the book would have worked better. Like if she lost her virginity to Clark before his secrets were revealed it would have been more emotional for her and for me as reader. And I wish Clark had been more willing to fight for her. So the romance could have been better.
If the romance needed improvement the futuristic setting really worked for me, and kept me reading until the end. I really enjoyed the unique aspects of this society and how the author built her society only to destroy it at the end. As a fan of New adult dystopia and Dystopian romance I was really into this book. I recommend it for the fans of arranged marriages books. Fans of The Queen of all that Dies and The Book of Ivy, I think you'll enjoy this one. Safety gang pals, if you don't need a lot of sex you'll also enjoy this one.
I can't wait to read more of this author.
3.5 safe stars? or 4 we need more dystopian romance stars? Either way, I recommend this book if you like:
♣ Safe books with no cheating, no OW, no slutshaming, no stupid separations.
♣ Slow burn romances that are different than the overdone virgin-manwhore combo
♣ Arranged marriage. Please tell me that it isn't sexy when heroine will have to spend her time with a gorgeous stranger that also happens to be her new husband.
♣ Interesting dystopian societies, interesting dystopian romances
♣ Virgin heroes matched up with Virgin heroines. To be honest that was never clarified, but in my mind he was a virgin. Or did I miss something?
♣ Descriptive writing.
♣ Incredibly sexual tension, and fade to black sex-scenes. Fans of "clean" romance, I think this one might be right on your alley because
And that's the reason I can't rate this book 5 stars. I prefer more sex in my books. The fade to black sex scene frustrated me after the author has set up such INCREDIBLE sexual chemistry between her leads. Author describes everything in this world in (for me) Unnecessary detail, but when it comes to the moment I had been waiting for since the wedding dance (BEST wedding SCENE EVER) she decided it to leave it to my imagination. It's particularly frustrating because Something blue ISN'T MARKETED AT CHILDREN 11-13 years old as many new adult books published by the big five publishing houses are. Many books lately are marketed as YA and send to the children's section of bookstores and middle grade libraries.
Case in point, A court of Mist and Fury which contains more p@rnogr@phic scenes than many Harlequins and Erotica books I've read. You can check the preview if you don't believe me, the debauchery starts on chapter 3.
Something blue is marketed towards adults and new adult readers so I don't understand why we didn't get more detailed sex scenes. At least one would have been great. After so many misunderstandings with Valenitine and Clark I felt like I deserved it. But my overall impression is that this book worked well even without it. And if this author gets more betareaders who read primarly romance(not editors, betas) she's one you don't want to miss. Her writing style really conveys the emotions and personal conflicts of her characters in an effective way... effortlessly!! I was so hurt when Valentine was hurt, so intrigued by Clark after their first dance, so worried about the cute best friend of our heroine. I've seen so many authors struggling with the emotional part of the writing craft, and that wasn't a problem here.
I really enjoyed this book which was a recommendation of one of the Good reads reviewers I respect the most. I don't know what I would do without Kriss. She writes detailed reviews and has a lot of knowledge of the Kindle Unlimited library. She always recommends to me interesting books that I wouldn't have discovered otherwise. So far all her recommendations have worked for me. I borrowed this one initially, but I ended up buying my own copy because I know I'll need to reread this one. Thank you Kriss for the book recommendation.
What is this book about? A futuristic society has discovered the key to eliminate crime and unhappy marriages. For me this isn't as much a dystopia at first, but it looks like an Utopia. Only certain people will be allowed to marry and therefore only certain people will be allowed to reproduce. No more abortions, no more neglected children, no more cheating, no more divorces, no more mass shooting, no more misunderstood terrorists who needed to be held more by their mothers at childhood, no criminals. If you're single, There's a formula that discovers your perfect match. If you're paired up to someone you move to a city of singles of your own gender. You study every day to become the best wife/husband you can become. You won't get married until you're ready. When you're ready your wedding will be sponsored by Bliss inc, the multimillionaire company that runs the matching tests. You meet your selected husband during the wedding ceremony. One of my co-workers is Vietnamese and she says that this is how she married her husband. They've been married decades and they seem so happy. The idea of arranged marriage has always fascinated me. So the setting of this book was really intriguing for me, I was hooked from the beginning.
Valentine, our heroine is 25 and has been in the preparation program way too long, all of her friends have married already and have become mothers already. Valentine has placed all her hopes for a better future, all her dreams in her trust on the matching program. Surely they won't make a mistake with her? Why the delay? Is she not ready? Is her perfect match the one who isn't ready yet?
The day she's told she and her partner are finally ready and a date is set for her wedding it's the day Valentine starts to question this system. Some things aren't adding up but she puts all her doubts aside, she needs to be ready for her wedding day. The preparations for the wedding were really fun to read, and when we have Valentine finally walking up the aisle ready to meet her perfect match I was as excited and nervous as she was.
Enter Clark, the groom. A gorgeous, broody guy with gorgeous blue eyes. He's as cold as he's mysterious, Valentine is torn. Is she attracted to this gorgeous guy who is cold and really rude to her? Unintentionally, Clark has humiliated her in front of all of her guests. He didn't even realized what he has done. Valentine would runaway if she could but then the first dance comes. I have to tell you, that first dance is the best wedding dance scene I've ever read. It's steamy, oozes of sexual chemistry between the leads. After that dancing scene I was sold. Honestly the fist 50% of the book that includes a honeymoon full of sexual tension made me SCREAM to my kindle something along the lines of WHY ISN'T THIS BOOK MORE POPULAR??????
Unfortunately after another beautiful dancing scene during the honeymoon just when I thought the buildup was leading me to a steamy, well-deserved sex scene things turned out to become repetitive. I thought Clark and Valentine were past misunderstandings and then they go to Couples therapy and she does things that make me question her. She went on and on in her mind about her husband's paranoia against Bliss Inc, what made her think blurting out his confidences to a Bliss Inc employee would work? And the way he responded to their problems was weak, in my opinion. I also think that if the sex scene had come during the honeymoon all the revelations and misunderstanding of the second half of the book would have worked better. Like if she lost her virginity to Clark before his secrets were revealed it would have been more emotional for her and for me as reader. And I wish Clark had been more willing to fight for her. So the romance could have been better.
If the romance needed improvement the futuristic setting really worked for me, and kept me reading until the end. I really enjoyed the unique aspects of this society and how the author built her society only to destroy it at the end. As a fan of New adult dystopia and Dystopian romance I was really into this book. I recommend it for the fans of arranged marriages books. Fans of The Queen of all that Dies and The Book of Ivy, I think you'll enjoy this one. Safety gang pals, if you don't need a lot of sex you'll also enjoy this one.
I can't wait to read more of this author.
March 26, 2022
This is a good dystopian romance, it drags in the middle but the ending is fast-paced. I'll read more of this author.
January 29, 2018
It's written well, the story flows, the characters are easy to distinguish through the dialogue and the world build is phenomenal. I enjoyed this read, it's a realm that I've seem to have distanced myself from, so it was nice to re-enter a dystopian romance.
We are introduced to a world where instead of depending your emotions to find the love of your life, you are selected to join the process of being matched by a perfect matchmaking service. If selected to be entered into the matchmaking service you are then moved to the singles community of you matching sex, where you being you readiness classes, but if you were not selected you became a laborer.
I found it interesting that how the community was broken. Singles, newlyweds, couples, families, and labours. I just wish there was more of a story of how it got to that point as there a reference to past history but not a real conclusion on how this world came to be. I also couldn't grasp how one was selected, whether it was random or due to legacy status.
Throughout the book all, I keep finding myself thing was, I want more. While that sounds like a great statement, in this case, it wasn't. It seemed that once something would start to explain it was stopped. I wanted to know more about the process, the readiness classes and more development overall. While parts did get explained it wasn't necessarily what I wanted to be explained. And a whopping 450+ pages I still was left slightly unsatisfied. I think this has great bones to become a saga instead of a standalone.
It felt a bit rushed and never gave me time to fully understand the emotion going on behind the character actions. And with characters like Valentine and Clark, it really would have been great to have.
Despite the shortcoming that came with the book, I still found it to be a quick and enjoyable read. I liked the plot and the how the conclusion was drawn. I found the relationship given the circumstance to be believable and found myself easily rooting for the underdogs.
If you're a fan of the trilogies Matched and Delirium, then this standalone is one you will enjoy.
We are introduced to a world where instead of depending your emotions to find the love of your life, you are selected to join the process of being matched by a perfect matchmaking service. If selected to be entered into the matchmaking service you are then moved to the singles community of you matching sex, where you being you readiness classes, but if you were not selected you became a laborer.
I found it interesting that how the community was broken. Singles, newlyweds, couples, families, and labours. I just wish there was more of a story of how it got to that point as there a reference to past history but not a real conclusion on how this world came to be. I also couldn't grasp how one was selected, whether it was random or due to legacy status.
Throughout the book all, I keep finding myself thing was, I want more. While that sounds like a great statement, in this case, it wasn't. It seemed that once something would start to explain it was stopped. I wanted to know more about the process, the readiness classes and more development overall. While parts did get explained it wasn't necessarily what I wanted to be explained. And a whopping 450+ pages I still was left slightly unsatisfied. I think this has great bones to become a saga instead of a standalone.
It felt a bit rushed and never gave me time to fully understand the emotion going on behind the character actions. And with characters like Valentine and Clark, it really would have been great to have.
Despite the shortcoming that came with the book, I still found it to be a quick and enjoyable read. I liked the plot and the how the conclusion was drawn. I found the relationship given the circumstance to be believable and found myself easily rooting for the underdogs.
If you're a fan of the trilogies Matched and Delirium, then this standalone is one you will enjoy.
June 1, 2018
When I read the description of this book I thought it would be like some of the other YA dystopian books I have read. I was wrong. Although this story has a similar theme to other stories Kristy's spin is refreshing. She has created a whole new world and she has built and described it in such a manner that I feel as though I am there with the characters.
The characters are developed nicely and I enjoyed watching their interactions with each other and the world around them.
I think if you like dystopian stories and are a sucker for a wild ride filled with emotion I think this story is for you.
The characters are developed nicely and I enjoyed watching their interactions with each other and the world around them.
I think if you like dystopian stories and are a sucker for a wild ride filled with emotion I think this story is for you.
February 27, 2019
I really enjoyed this book! It had some of the same feelings as The Book of Ivy but with the male/female roles reversed and a bit less emphasis on the rebellion/changing the world part.
Valentine is a 25 year old woman waiting eagerly for the day she's allowed to marry the perfect match that Bliss Inc. paired her with at age 15. Lonely and hungry for the beautiful life of true love she's been promised, she proceeds to marry a stranger, only to find out that things are wildly different than she ever anticipated. Her story takes the reader on a tale of disillusionment and how things that are real, no matter how hard, are better than pretty lies.
I very much enjoyed Valentine and Clark's relationship. I think the focus of the book is much more on them than the world, but the world building still worked out nicely and felt immersive, even though this book hasn't spent incredibly lengthy amounts of time establishing everything. We're placed in a futuristic world where a corporation runs everyone's lives and how a woman who believes in the illusion has her eyes opened and find something more valuable than the prettily boxed narrative she was born and raised to believe.
Valentine can at times come off somewhat naive and bratty, but I think this was ultimately intentional so that we could see her growth as the veil over her eyes is parted to startling truths. She has wonderful growth in the book and I actually cried a few times over her emotional turmoil. Clark is overall one of the nicer examples of a character who starts off cold and goes through a metamorphosis where he opens his mind and heart to another person. Despite the back and forth with Valentine and Clark, it felt like it was well done. I wasn't bored or irritated by their fights or conflicts, it felt like two people caught between a lot of things trying to make it work and making mistakes along the way.
I kind of wish we'd gotten POV with Clark, but I think the reveals he shares are important to the story, so having the split POVs would have ruined those reveals for the reader early on and we'd have needed to wait for Valentine to be caught up.
Overall, a very nice standalone! I really enjoyed it and got through it easy. Even though our leads are 25 and 28, the sex isn't super explicit and lengthy, even though there is some candidness about sex, so I wouldn't consider this an erotica, but it does feel like it'd sit well as an NA dystopian romance.
I recommend if you're in the mood for a dystopian setting and a worthwhile arranged-marriage style romance plot.
Valentine is a 25 year old woman waiting eagerly for the day she's allowed to marry the perfect match that Bliss Inc. paired her with at age 15. Lonely and hungry for the beautiful life of true love she's been promised, she proceeds to marry a stranger, only to find out that things are wildly different than she ever anticipated. Her story takes the reader on a tale of disillusionment and how things that are real, no matter how hard, are better than pretty lies.
I very much enjoyed Valentine and Clark's relationship. I think the focus of the book is much more on them than the world, but the world building still worked out nicely and felt immersive, even though this book hasn't spent incredibly lengthy amounts of time establishing everything. We're placed in a futuristic world where a corporation runs everyone's lives and how a woman who believes in the illusion has her eyes opened and find something more valuable than the prettily boxed narrative she was born and raised to believe.
Valentine can at times come off somewhat naive and bratty, but I think this was ultimately intentional so that we could see her growth as the veil over her eyes is parted to startling truths. She has wonderful growth in the book and I actually cried a few times over her emotional turmoil. Clark is overall one of the nicer examples of a character who starts off cold and goes through a metamorphosis where he opens his mind and heart to another person. Despite the back and forth with Valentine and Clark, it felt like it was well done. I wasn't bored or irritated by their fights or conflicts, it felt like two people caught between a lot of things trying to make it work and making mistakes along the way.
I kind of wish we'd gotten POV with Clark, but I think the reveals he shares are important to the story, so having the split POVs would have ruined those reveals for the reader early on and we'd have needed to wait for Valentine to be caught up.
Overall, a very nice standalone! I really enjoyed it and got through it easy. Even though our leads are 25 and 28, the sex isn't super explicit and lengthy, even though there is some candidness about sex, so I wouldn't consider this an erotica, but it does feel like it'd sit well as an NA dystopian romance.
I recommend if you're in the mood for a dystopian setting and a worthwhile arranged-marriage style romance plot.
June 25, 2019
This is a dystopian romance. It is well written, love the characters and the story. I was enthralled throughout.
Valentine is a 25 year old who was matched with her perfect mate when she was 15. He is a stranger and she is waiting to marry him. She is lonely and believes her perfect match will be the end of being lonely and be someone who will love her.
Finally her turn comes and she meets this stranger. It is not what she expects but I won't spoil it for you. It is a well told story and kept me reading just one more chapter before I could put it down and continue with my own life.
I loved it. I would have loved more. It is one of those books you hate to see end. Try it, you'll like it.
Valentine is a 25 year old who was matched with her perfect mate when she was 15. He is a stranger and she is waiting to marry him. She is lonely and believes her perfect match will be the end of being lonely and be someone who will love her.
Finally her turn comes and she meets this stranger. It is not what she expects but I won't spoil it for you. It is a well told story and kept me reading just one more chapter before I could put it down and continue with my own life.
I loved it. I would have loved more. It is one of those books you hate to see end. Try it, you'll like it.
sample-says-no
December 14, 2019It’s the kind of 1st person present tense choppy writing I don’t like.
March 15, 2021
A dystopian romance about being offered your perfect person and perfect marriage. I thought it was quite well done. I liked the plot and ideas presented, with all the mystery was really fun to read. At times however, I felt like the plot was not advancing forward, but rather dawdling (could just be me being impatient) and the main character Val annoyed me a little.
The ending did feel a little bit rushed for me, I wish there was a bit more closure between Val and Clark, maybe a few more chapters. It kinda felt like the main story was a bit too slow and the climax was a bit too fast.
→ 3 stars
The ending did feel a little bit rushed for me, I wish there was a bit more closure between Val and Clark, maybe a few more chapters. It kinda felt like the main story was a bit too slow and the climax was a bit too fast.
→ 3 stars
July 22, 2018
Scifi dystopian romance and first read by this author.
Imagine a world where from the moment you are born you are tested and sorted into a strange class system. If you are lucky you will make it into the ‘jigsaw’ programme... you sole focus is to be made ready to marry and and have children and be the perfect spouse to your future husband or wife.
A world where material possessions..accommodation, clothing and even food, are portioned out depending on your status.. single, bride, wife... those who are lucky enough to have made it into the jigsaw programme want for nothing... everyone else.. well they aren’t so fortunate... bliss inc’s sole focus is the 99% correct equation..and the ‘bettering’ of the human species. But at what cost??
Valentine is waiting, at 25 she is far older than her friends who have gone on to marry and have children, she is lonely and restless and wants nothing more than to be a bride. With little or no thought to who her actual husband will be...Raised not to question anything and with high expectations of her future and her husband, she is more than devastated when she finally meets him on her wedding day.
Clark is aloof, cold, angry and adamant that he will never love Valentine...it’s clear that he has secrets and is not willing to share them with his new bride. Resigning herself to the fact that she will live in a loveless marriage and that her and Clarke will be friends, it’s not perfect but the alternative of being part of the 1% of failed matches is hard for her to believe... because Bloss Inc and the equation is NEVER wrong...is it?
I freaking adore dystopian themed books... but I love ones that make the reader ask ‘bigger picture questions’ and this book does that in spades. Such an original concept, I was drawn in from the first page and loved the blending of hi tech world and old fashioned arranged marriages.
The focus is obviously on Valentine, she is sheltered, shockingly nieve and unaware of the bigger picture... but this is how Bliss Inc has controlled the populace... by taking away individual choice.
So it no wonder when she meets Clark that she begins to recognise her lack of choice and how insulated she has been from the world. That her wonderful life is actually just a fancy prison and that there is actually a bigger picture hidden behind the sparkle.
The underlying sinister feel I got from the seemingly perfect world was wonderfully conveyed in the ‘hard light holograms’, upcyclers, male and female zones. I have to admit I did find myself chanting ‘soilent green’ and was left with an overall visual image of a world not shockingly dissimilar to the film Logan Run! This book had a true old school vibe of sci fi films to it which I bloody adored!
Kudos to the author for bringing such a brilliant blending of old and new and original concepts to make for a truely brilliant read!
Imagine a world where from the moment you are born you are tested and sorted into a strange class system. If you are lucky you will make it into the ‘jigsaw’ programme... you sole focus is to be made ready to marry and and have children and be the perfect spouse to your future husband or wife.
A world where material possessions..accommodation, clothing and even food, are portioned out depending on your status.. single, bride, wife... those who are lucky enough to have made it into the jigsaw programme want for nothing... everyone else.. well they aren’t so fortunate... bliss inc’s sole focus is the 99% correct equation..and the ‘bettering’ of the human species. But at what cost??
Valentine is waiting, at 25 she is far older than her friends who have gone on to marry and have children, she is lonely and restless and wants nothing more than to be a bride. With little or no thought to who her actual husband will be...Raised not to question anything and with high expectations of her future and her husband, she is more than devastated when she finally meets him on her wedding day.
Clark is aloof, cold, angry and adamant that he will never love Valentine...it’s clear that he has secrets and is not willing to share them with his new bride. Resigning herself to the fact that she will live in a loveless marriage and that her and Clarke will be friends, it’s not perfect but the alternative of being part of the 1% of failed matches is hard for her to believe... because Bloss Inc and the equation is NEVER wrong...is it?
I freaking adore dystopian themed books... but I love ones that make the reader ask ‘bigger picture questions’ and this book does that in spades. Such an original concept, I was drawn in from the first page and loved the blending of hi tech world and old fashioned arranged marriages.
The focus is obviously on Valentine, she is sheltered, shockingly nieve and unaware of the bigger picture... but this is how Bliss Inc has controlled the populace... by taking away individual choice.
So it no wonder when she meets Clark that she begins to recognise her lack of choice and how insulated she has been from the world. That her wonderful life is actually just a fancy prison and that there is actually a bigger picture hidden behind the sparkle.
The underlying sinister feel I got from the seemingly perfect world was wonderfully conveyed in the ‘hard light holograms’, upcyclers, male and female zones. I have to admit I did find myself chanting ‘soilent green’ and was left with an overall visual image of a world not shockingly dissimilar to the film Logan Run! This book had a true old school vibe of sci fi films to it which I bloody adored!
Kudos to the author for bringing such a brilliant blending of old and new and original concepts to make for a truely brilliant read!
March 28, 2017
Susan reviewed on behalf of Mytimeoutbookblog
I give Something Blue 5 stars for making me ponder what does go into finding your soulmate. I felt very frustrated with how they were imposed this lifestyle, with no liberties, no freedom to come and go and interact with others as they wished. I felt much angst as they were searching for answers, but was happy with the end result.
Kristy Nicolle is a new author to me and I enjoyed her writing style. She has a great imagination to be able to delve into a novel about finding your soulmate and combining it with fantasy and futuristic notions, kudos. She built strong characters with hard decisions to make.
Valentine and Clark are wed, sight unseen. From the moment she meets him, she figures her new husband is not the man of her dreams. Her fantasy that she holds so dearly, is quickly becoming shattered. Clark has thrown her into a world, not of bliss, but of emotional ups and downs and the consequences could be fatal. Did the scientific formula with a 99% success rate get it all wrong?
Valentine Morland lives in the city of Monopolis where a scientific formula is supposed to give you your happily ever after. She has been waiting nine years for the man of her dreams, a stranger, whom she will marry the same day she meets him. After, she will have a life of carefree luxury and bliss, courtesy of the Jigsaw Project. Is he really the man of her dreams?
Clark Cavanaugh is paranoid of the system established by Bliss Inc. He does not buy into their hogwash that a scientific formula can find you a matchmate of true love, with a success rate of 99%. He claims that he is not capable of love at all. After being married off to Valentine, he tries to remain aloof, and is very secretive. Will she discover what he's hiding?
Something Blue is a fantasy romance novel that reveals that ignorance really can be bliss! It is a quirky read but with a great message about finding your other half...could take a lifetime, or could happen overnight...anybodies guess!
I enjoyed this book, maybe a little too futuristic for myself, but a good read none the less.
I give Something Blue 5 stars for making me ponder what does go into finding your soulmate. I felt very frustrated with how they were imposed this lifestyle, with no liberties, no freedom to come and go and interact with others as they wished. I felt much angst as they were searching for answers, but was happy with the end result.
Kristy Nicolle is a new author to me and I enjoyed her writing style. She has a great imagination to be able to delve into a novel about finding your soulmate and combining it with fantasy and futuristic notions, kudos. She built strong characters with hard decisions to make.
Valentine and Clark are wed, sight unseen. From the moment she meets him, she figures her new husband is not the man of her dreams. Her fantasy that she holds so dearly, is quickly becoming shattered. Clark has thrown her into a world, not of bliss, but of emotional ups and downs and the consequences could be fatal. Did the scientific formula with a 99% success rate get it all wrong?
Valentine Morland lives in the city of Monopolis where a scientific formula is supposed to give you your happily ever after. She has been waiting nine years for the man of her dreams, a stranger, whom she will marry the same day she meets him. After, she will have a life of carefree luxury and bliss, courtesy of the Jigsaw Project. Is he really the man of her dreams?
Clark Cavanaugh is paranoid of the system established by Bliss Inc. He does not buy into their hogwash that a scientific formula can find you a matchmate of true love, with a success rate of 99%. He claims that he is not capable of love at all. After being married off to Valentine, he tries to remain aloof, and is very secretive. Will she discover what he's hiding?
Something Blue is a fantasy romance novel that reveals that ignorance really can be bliss! It is a quirky read but with a great message about finding your other half...could take a lifetime, or could happen overnight...anybodies guess!
I enjoyed this book, maybe a little too futuristic for myself, but a good read none the less.
March 28, 2017
Something Blue has been written in Kristy Nicolle’s unique voice which strengthens with each novel. The story unfolds with an introduction to the jigsaw scheme. It cleverly immerses the reader into the dystopian setting. Valentine drew me in with her realistic expectations, hopes and fears for her future under the Bliss Inc. umbrella.
The separated districts brought to mind some of my favourite dystopian novels and movies. The technological elements of the story were well formatted. They were described so precisely that I had no question of how the science worked. I know... I'm not a scientist. But I am an author, plot holes are my speciality. There were none. The concept of the story was intriguing and if I'm honest a scary possibility for the survival of our race. Creepy!
The novel came alive the moment Valentine sets her eyes upon Clark. It was pure emotional dynamite from there on in. Clark is a mysterious, bad boy with an alluring edge that pushes and pulls the reader in. The reality of Clark’s paranoia was unexpected and brilliantly designed. I learnt about the characters nuances as they did each other’s. Valentine is desperate for the sweet forever love story she's been promised. Though she's down to earth, her out spoken nature provoked some tantalising responses from Clark. The rise and fall of Valentines emotions prove that there is no such thing as a true love match. Love is far more complex than that.
I loved the different interpretations of the word Bliss throughout the novel. I fell in love with this story, with Clark and Valentine, with Author Kristy Nicolle. You little gem!
I recommend this book to lovers of dystopian romance who adore complex and gripping relationships. Smouldering cold shoulder guys who draw you in. And a brave female lead who takes on the challenges presented to her in an unforgettable way.
The separated districts brought to mind some of my favourite dystopian novels and movies. The technological elements of the story were well formatted. They were described so precisely that I had no question of how the science worked. I know... I'm not a scientist. But I am an author, plot holes are my speciality. There were none. The concept of the story was intriguing and if I'm honest a scary possibility for the survival of our race. Creepy!
The novel came alive the moment Valentine sets her eyes upon Clark. It was pure emotional dynamite from there on in. Clark is a mysterious, bad boy with an alluring edge that pushes and pulls the reader in. The reality of Clark’s paranoia was unexpected and brilliantly designed. I learnt about the characters nuances as they did each other’s. Valentine is desperate for the sweet forever love story she's been promised. Though she's down to earth, her out spoken nature provoked some tantalising responses from Clark. The rise and fall of Valentines emotions prove that there is no such thing as a true love match. Love is far more complex than that.
I loved the different interpretations of the word Bliss throughout the novel. I fell in love with this story, with Clark and Valentine, with Author Kristy Nicolle. You little gem!
I recommend this book to lovers of dystopian romance who adore complex and gripping relationships. Smouldering cold shoulder guys who draw you in. And a brave female lead who takes on the challenges presented to her in an unforgettable way.
March 14, 2019
Something New ?
Something Blue by Kristy Nicolle was an unusual purchase for me. Romance Novels are something I remember from High School, when the gals would pass the "Lusty & Maybe Really Lusty (don't let the cafeteria monitors see)"novel of the month. Some were good,really good in kind of a bad way🤭. Others became boring and formulaic. For that reason and also because I have always read somewhat excessively, I branched out to other genres. So after nearly a lifetime of reading in any spare minute ( including but not limited to: during hot baths, any car ride in which I am not driving, while waiting for any/all appointments & three am while insomnia rages) I'M be ended up in Sci Fi and rarely fantasy. Lots of dystopian fiction since late 2016 too, for some reason. That's what led me to paying full price for "Something Blue". I was intrigued by the Amazon description and more by the critical reviews that were posted. Without, giving any spoilers, I can honestly say this book had a group of relatable characters and good "world building". The plot, though a tiny bit predictable, reads well. My only complaint is the book ended abruptly. While preparing for the review, I see the Kristy Nicolle has authored several trilogies and this could well work as an introduction to a world with "Monopolis" as it's core. There is much to work with. I would feel comfortable recommending this book not only to readers of romance novels but also to science fiction. I find myself getting annoyed when plots have lovers who don't communicate well leading to silly misunderstandings, but this book had enough action to keep it from that. I can say that I would read a sequel if one is written.
Something Blue by Kristy Nicolle was an unusual purchase for me. Romance Novels are something I remember from High School, when the gals would pass the "Lusty & Maybe Really Lusty (don't let the cafeteria monitors see)"novel of the month. Some were good,really good in kind of a bad way🤭. Others became boring and formulaic. For that reason and also because I have always read somewhat excessively, I branched out to other genres. So after nearly a lifetime of reading in any spare minute ( including but not limited to: during hot baths, any car ride in which I am not driving, while waiting for any/all appointments & three am while insomnia rages) I'M be ended up in Sci Fi and rarely fantasy. Lots of dystopian fiction since late 2016 too, for some reason. That's what led me to paying full price for "Something Blue". I was intrigued by the Amazon description and more by the critical reviews that were posted. Without, giving any spoilers, I can honestly say this book had a group of relatable characters and good "world building". The plot, though a tiny bit predictable, reads well. My only complaint is the book ended abruptly. While preparing for the review, I see the Kristy Nicolle has authored several trilogies and this could well work as an introduction to a world with "Monopolis" as it's core. There is much to work with. I would feel comfortable recommending this book not only to readers of romance novels but also to science fiction. I find myself getting annoyed when plots have lovers who don't communicate well leading to silly misunderstandings, but this book had enough action to keep it from that. I can say that I would read a sequel if one is written.
September 13, 2018
This book kept me interested because I kept hoping that something would happen. But really nothing did. The characters were never fully developed and the heroine was kind of whiny and annoying. The writing was strange and very passive. I understand it was British English but no excuse for sounding like a foreign language. Repeatedly the author would write “I was stood...” instead of “standing” and other grammatically irritating quirks. The evil corporation? Didn’t get a sense of it at all until the end, and then barely, and the heroes basically baled. It was okay. Glad I borrowed and didn’t buy.
January 5, 2020
This is phenomenal
The fact that I accidentally came across this and did not find it through one of many book related social media shocks me. This is perfectly crafted dystopian romance. Heavier emphasis on the romance than many dystopian novel. But it totally works. The world the author creates is perfectly crafted and believable. Such a great story!
The fact that I accidentally came across this and did not find it through one of many book related social media shocks me. This is perfectly crafted dystopian romance. Heavier emphasis on the romance than many dystopian novel. But it totally works. The world the author creates is perfectly crafted and believable. Such a great story!
April 7, 2017
So a friend recommended this to me, and I have to admit I was dubious. Dystopian books have never been my thing. I'm so glad I one clicked though. I FLOVED this book so hard! I didn't want to put it down but alas I had to work but I still finished within 24hours!
April 1, 2017
Something Blue looks to a future where the world has almost destroyed itself, indiscriminate breeding leading to overpopulation and chaos. Enter Bliss Inc, a company rebuilding society with it’s Jigsaw programme. Only those passing a rigorous test are deemed suitable candidates for the programme. To be given the honour of becoming married and allowed to have children. For those not so fortunate a life in the labour district and a future of servitude awaits, however, Valentine Moreland is one of the fortunate ones. Deemed worthy of the programme she waits longer than most for her “readiness tests” to confirm that she is ready for her wedding, but once the day that she has dreamed of arrives, she feels beset with nerves and questions about her future with a stranger, a situation which becomes compounded when her perfect match doesn’t live up to the match of her dreams. Bliss inc’s formula is only 99% successful, what if she is in the remaining 1%, what happens to those that the formula fails? As she struggles with these questions she finds herself being dragged into a world filled with paranoia and lies; are the appearances she has been keeping up really still just appearances? With the 100 day assessment period ticking by, she needs to try and separate the truth from the lies and the dream from reality, will she be able to make it?
When I first heard the premise for Something Blue, I was immediately struck by how different it was. For the first part, you become completely whipped up into Valentines’ world, the excitement and trepidation of preparing for the biggest day of your life, coupled with interfering family members all condensed into one week of chaotic arrangements. Your heart is left furiously beating as you finally get to live the wedding day with Valentine and her hopes and fears. Looking back, the signs are there that not everything is perfect in the utopian wedding district, but very the hints are subtle.
The growing relationship between her and clarke is beautifully done, two people questioning a system and a formula, which against all thoughts to the contrary seems to have maybe got it right after all, is wonderfully played out. They both find common ground with their disdain for a system which removes their choices and seemingly small acts of rebellion lead to so much more. Clark has a lot to prove however as his inability to fully open up to Valentine could halt their fledgling relationship in it’s tracks.
Bliss inc is an unlikely baddy to start but truth behind the new hard light holograms sets in motion a series of events from which no-one can step back from.
This is a wonderfully captivating story which I almost read in one sitting and I was so relieved to find that it was a stand alone - I have missed stand alone stories recently and being able to see these characters through without a cliffhanger was really refreshing.
This gets a solid 5 starts from me.
When I first heard the premise for Something Blue, I was immediately struck by how different it was. For the first part, you become completely whipped up into Valentines’ world, the excitement and trepidation of preparing for the biggest day of your life, coupled with interfering family members all condensed into one week of chaotic arrangements. Your heart is left furiously beating as you finally get to live the wedding day with Valentine and her hopes and fears. Looking back, the signs are there that not everything is perfect in the utopian wedding district, but very the hints are subtle.
The growing relationship between her and clarke is beautifully done, two people questioning a system and a formula, which against all thoughts to the contrary seems to have maybe got it right after all, is wonderfully played out. They both find common ground with their disdain for a system which removes their choices and seemingly small acts of rebellion lead to so much more. Clark has a lot to prove however as his inability to fully open up to Valentine could halt their fledgling relationship in it’s tracks.
Bliss inc is an unlikely baddy to start but truth behind the new hard light holograms sets in motion a series of events from which no-one can step back from.
This is a wonderfully captivating story which I almost read in one sitting and I was so relieved to find that it was a stand alone - I have missed stand alone stories recently and being able to see these characters through without a cliffhanger was really refreshing.
This gets a solid 5 starts from me.
August 15, 2018
Something Blue - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Valentine Morland is part of the elite Jigsaw Programme, run by Bliss Inc in the dystopian city of Monopolis, in Kristy Nicolle's clever premise for a book about arranged marriages, with a twist or three, Something Blue.
Scientifically, rather than parent-chosen couples are entered into irrevocable arranged marriages, using advanced technology instead of old-fashioned human matchmaking. Sexes and married couples/singletons are separated completely before and after the ceremony, so the spouses know nothing whatsoever about their 'other halves' until the deed is done. Sounds like the tv reality show Married at First Sight, only worse, right?
The problems begin soon after the wedding, as the pair are complete emotional opposites; Val's whiny and insecure - a lightweight princess used to having her own way when she demands it and Clark's the archetypal bad boy, who thinks he knows best and isn't afraid to say so, plus he has a terrible secret from his past that partly explains why he's so cold and hard and afraid of commitment. To further complicate matters it seems strange that they're the only failure in Bliss Inc's Jigsaw Programme, that promises elite couples (ie rich), complete perfection and guarantees a HEA. Perhaps, Valentine thinks eventually, Monopolis' super-technology is not so super after all?
Needless to say, she acts on her suspicions in tandem with Clark and uncovers the gruesome truth - couples who aren't prepared to demonstrate their commitment and love for each other disappear - never to be seen again! Once this grim reality is exposed couples split up all over the place and, shock horror! some (like Valentine's BFF Egypt), don't even get wed at all, but lurch from one disastrous relationship to another, never having had to date or choose for themselves romantically.
A clever idea taken to new heights, that will thrill readers of many genres with its dystopian sci-fi setting, reality-show with a twist plot line, sleuthing to unmask the evils of consumerism and 'Big Brother' society, (that could be a tyrannical version of a reality show), romance between a nice girl and a bad boy that has to overcome the odds to succeed, plus the obligatory HEA. Grab yourself a copy today and you'll soon be transported - to see exactly where society could be headed in future!
Valentine Morland is part of the elite Jigsaw Programme, run by Bliss Inc in the dystopian city of Monopolis, in Kristy Nicolle's clever premise for a book about arranged marriages, with a twist or three, Something Blue.
Scientifically, rather than parent-chosen couples are entered into irrevocable arranged marriages, using advanced technology instead of old-fashioned human matchmaking. Sexes and married couples/singletons are separated completely before and after the ceremony, so the spouses know nothing whatsoever about their 'other halves' until the deed is done. Sounds like the tv reality show Married at First Sight, only worse, right?
The problems begin soon after the wedding, as the pair are complete emotional opposites; Val's whiny and insecure - a lightweight princess used to having her own way when she demands it and Clark's the archetypal bad boy, who thinks he knows best and isn't afraid to say so, plus he has a terrible secret from his past that partly explains why he's so cold and hard and afraid of commitment. To further complicate matters it seems strange that they're the only failure in Bliss Inc's Jigsaw Programme, that promises elite couples (ie rich), complete perfection and guarantees a HEA. Perhaps, Valentine thinks eventually, Monopolis' super-technology is not so super after all?
Needless to say, she acts on her suspicions in tandem with Clark and uncovers the gruesome truth - couples who aren't prepared to demonstrate their commitment and love for each other disappear - never to be seen again! Once this grim reality is exposed couples split up all over the place and, shock horror! some (like Valentine's BFF Egypt), don't even get wed at all, but lurch from one disastrous relationship to another, never having had to date or choose for themselves romantically.
A clever idea taken to new heights, that will thrill readers of many genres with its dystopian sci-fi setting, reality-show with a twist plot line, sleuthing to unmask the evils of consumerism and 'Big Brother' society, (that could be a tyrannical version of a reality show), romance between a nice girl and a bad boy that has to overcome the odds to succeed, plus the obligatory HEA. Grab yourself a copy today and you'll soon be transported - to see exactly where society could be headed in future!
March 28, 2017
I give this book 5 stars but I'd give it 100 stars if I could because it was just that good. If you love hunger games or divergent series you will love this book. It is a great mix of both but so much more. I read a lot of dystopian books and this one absolutely takes the cake. I love the characters and the plot is amazing. I call it a masterpiece. This is just one of those books you will find yourself reading over and over again. Clark and Valentine are so perfect for one another. I don't want to give too much away so I'll just say that you need to read this book. You won't be disappointed. Oh and let me also say that this book needs to be made into a movie.
March 25, 2017
Something Blue by Kristy Nicolle is a stand alone romance novel with science fiction elements.
Meet Valentine Morland who attends the Jigsaw Project at Bliss Inc.
I really liked her character. She´s giddy to be wed and meet her new till now unknown husband.He should be a perfect match to Valentine. But is he? And why is he so cold?
Their relationship is very difficult and there are twists and turns I never had expected.
I like the writing and I like the characters. I rate this book 4 Stars and Thank you Kristy Nicolle.
Meet Valentine Morland who attends the Jigsaw Project at Bliss Inc.
I really liked her character. She´s giddy to be wed and meet her new till now unknown husband.He should be a perfect match to Valentine. But is he? And why is he so cold?
Their relationship is very difficult and there are twists and turns I never had expected.
I like the writing and I like the characters. I rate this book 4 Stars and Thank you Kristy Nicolle.
Read
April 6, 2017I was in love with this book from the beginning! I love something that takes me out of the realm of possibility, into a whole new world!! Valentine and Clark are so fantastic!! I love the drama, the crazy, and the different!!! such a great book
May 18, 2019
It's okay.
Arranged marriage.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No other woman, small accusation against the heroine without foundation.
Tortured Hero.
HEA.
Arranged marriage.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No other woman, small accusation against the heroine without foundation.
Tortured Hero.
HEA.
August 20, 2018
Overall Rating: ★★★
Heroine: Not your typical Stepford wife
Dude: Defines flip-flopping
Steaminess: Not everything can be scripted
Brutality: Acid burns...ick
Once again Kindle Unlimited has pleasantly surprised me.This book was a recommendation and after seeing the cover, I had to pick it up. This is not your typical romance, but it was a fun and easy read. Plus, I like putting my KU subscription to work. I have recently been obsessed with the Married at First Sight show, so this was right up my alley.
In this dystopian world, people are tested at 15 and if they qualify, they are tattooed and put into extreme marriage prep bootcamp. This tattoo is currency, ID, basically everything. It also matches your “matchmate” perfectly. Men and women are kept separate until their test reveal that it is the ideal time to meet, get married and move on to greener pastures (literally).
The whole society horrified me. Here is a list of reasons why:
Women and men are separated at all times (this includes your dad!)
Unmarried women cannot wear anything other than white and baby pink. My actual nightmare.
Men are fed porn as education for sex!
Women are told nothing about sex at all.
Women are only allowed to watch wedding programming. They spend over 5 years planning their wedding ALL DAY.
Women are told that if they are not a virgin they are damaged goods and useless to the program.
The program only allows for man-woman marriages
So those are the things that made me rage. Like RAGE.
But, I liked the story… Clark and Valentine meet for the first time at their wedding and Valentine immediately hates him and begins to question the whole program. Clark is kind of a jerk to her, but eventually falls for her anyway. They navigate through their marriage while trying to shut down the evil organization.
I loved Valentine’s character arc. She was pretty funny and watching her become her own person as opposed to a pre-programmed baby maker was fun. Her inner monologue had me laughing and saying SAME a lot.
I would have given this more stars, but there were a few typos and the first 25% was just wedding nonsense. I almost put it down because Valentine was droning on about weddings. I ended up skimming a bit until she met Clark. Other than that, I would recommend this one if you don’t like stereotypical romances!
Heroine: Not your typical Stepford wife
Dude: Defines flip-flopping
Steaminess: Not everything can be scripted
Brutality: Acid burns...ick
Once again Kindle Unlimited has pleasantly surprised me.This book was a recommendation and after seeing the cover, I had to pick it up. This is not your typical romance, but it was a fun and easy read. Plus, I like putting my KU subscription to work. I have recently been obsessed with the Married at First Sight show, so this was right up my alley.
In this dystopian world, people are tested at 15 and if they qualify, they are tattooed and put into extreme marriage prep bootcamp. This tattoo is currency, ID, basically everything. It also matches your “matchmate” perfectly. Men and women are kept separate until their test reveal that it is the ideal time to meet, get married and move on to greener pastures (literally).
The whole society horrified me. Here is a list of reasons why:
Women and men are separated at all times (this includes your dad!)
Unmarried women cannot wear anything other than white and baby pink. My actual nightmare.
Men are fed porn as education for sex!
Women are told nothing about sex at all.
Women are only allowed to watch wedding programming. They spend over 5 years planning their wedding ALL DAY.
Women are told that if they are not a virgin they are damaged goods and useless to the program.
The program only allows for man-woman marriages
So those are the things that made me rage. Like RAGE.
But, I liked the story… Clark and Valentine meet for the first time at their wedding and Valentine immediately hates him and begins to question the whole program. Clark is kind of a jerk to her, but eventually falls for her anyway. They navigate through their marriage while trying to shut down the evil organization.
I loved Valentine’s character arc. She was pretty funny and watching her become her own person as opposed to a pre-programmed baby maker was fun. Her inner monologue had me laughing and saying SAME a lot.
“Do you want to see what happens when a short, curvy woman gets hungry, Clark? Because I can guarantee you it’s scarier than any ride in this place.”
I would have given this more stars, but there were a few typos and the first 25% was just wedding nonsense. I almost put it down because Valentine was droning on about weddings. I ended up skimming a bit until she met Clark. Other than that, I would recommend this one if you don’t like stereotypical romances!
April 1, 2017
This is absolutely without a doubt Kristy Nicolle's best book to date! The imagery that she created had me wanting to be a part of Bliss Inc's Jigsaw Project (well, for most of the book at least). I could "see" every object, every building, every outfit while reading. Her gift of description amazes me with each book of hers that I read.
This was my first journey into Dystopian Romance, and I absolutely loved it.
On the surface it seemed like Monopolis was the perfect place to live. Especially if you were accepted into the Jigsaw Project. You would find your perfect mate, get married and have children. Everything would be provided for you. But below the surface lies something different.
I loved Valentine. She has a sweet innocence to her. She was the poster child for the Jigsaw Project, and believed in everything they promised her. Until she married Clark. Her whole world was turned upside down. Her eyes were opened. As she lost her innocence, she found who she truly was. She discovered a strength she never knew existed.
Clark! This man was absolutely infuriating one moment and melted my heart the next. It took me a while to warm up to him, but I feel that was an intentional part of the story. As I was reading, I had to remind myself that it's all about the journey, and sometimes the journey can get your shoes a little dirty!
The push and pull between Valentine and Clark was great. There were times I actually questioned if they were going to get a traditional HEA.
I loved every moment of this amazing roller coaster ride that Ms. Nicolle took me on. This book will most definitely go on my list of worth a re-read!
This was my first journey into Dystopian Romance, and I absolutely loved it.
On the surface it seemed like Monopolis was the perfect place to live. Especially if you were accepted into the Jigsaw Project. You would find your perfect mate, get married and have children. Everything would be provided for you. But below the surface lies something different.
I loved Valentine. She has a sweet innocence to her. She was the poster child for the Jigsaw Project, and believed in everything they promised her. Until she married Clark. Her whole world was turned upside down. Her eyes were opened. As she lost her innocence, she found who she truly was. She discovered a strength she never knew existed.
Clark! This man was absolutely infuriating one moment and melted my heart the next. It took me a while to warm up to him, but I feel that was an intentional part of the story. As I was reading, I had to remind myself that it's all about the journey, and sometimes the journey can get your shoes a little dirty!
The push and pull between Valentine and Clark was great. There were times I actually questioned if they were going to get a traditional HEA.
I loved every moment of this amazing roller coaster ride that Ms. Nicolle took me on. This book will most definitely go on my list of worth a re-read!
March 30, 2017
What if the key to finding your perfect match was a scientific formula? What if love can be gauged and measured? This is the premise behind Something Blue. Set in a dystopian future society, men and women of the Jigsaw Project do not freely interact. They are kept separate from the time they are children and take classes to become the "perfect" spouse. Their match is determined via a battery of tests and when two subjects are suitable immediately married and start their lives together.
Ms. Nicolle's Something Blue is a thought bending read of a future where our destiny isn't our own. She takes our online dating of now and jumps it to a scary outcome. The world building isn't outrageous as to make the story to far out sci-fi. It's just enough to ring eerily true. Her lead female character, Valentine is a strong woman but one who has been conditioned to accept the way things are done. Left in the Jigsaw Project far longer than her peers, she is understandably fraught as she waits for her match. Enter Clark, her match and spouse. He is a confusing character at first as he doesn't seem to fit what Valentine was told she have when married. The story takes an interesting turn as Ms. Nicolle reveals the ugly underbelly of a society which has turned it back on free will and personal choice.
The pace, at the beginning, is a little slow but picks up once the couple meets and becomes absorbing as Valentine and Clark learn about each other and the world they inhabit. Overall a good read with a thought provoking theme.
Ms. Nicolle's Something Blue is a thought bending read of a future where our destiny isn't our own. She takes our online dating of now and jumps it to a scary outcome. The world building isn't outrageous as to make the story to far out sci-fi. It's just enough to ring eerily true. Her lead female character, Valentine is a strong woman but one who has been conditioned to accept the way things are done. Left in the Jigsaw Project far longer than her peers, she is understandably fraught as she waits for her match. Enter Clark, her match and spouse. He is a confusing character at first as he doesn't seem to fit what Valentine was told she have when married. The story takes an interesting turn as Ms. Nicolle reveals the ugly underbelly of a society which has turned it back on free will and personal choice.
The pace, at the beginning, is a little slow but picks up once the couple meets and becomes absorbing as Valentine and Clark learn about each other and the world they inhabit. Overall a good read with a thought provoking theme.
March 30, 2017
I absolutely love the premise for this book! Love the sci-fi aspects, and the story is entertaining! Valentine is part of the Jigsaw Project, which arranges marriages scientifically for maximum success, and she has been waiting in the training program for a long time, so she is ready and anxious to meet her match, but when Valentine finally meets her match, everything isn't exactly living up to her dreams. Valentine's new husband is acting secretive and Valentine doesn't know if she can trust him, and there's also some odd things happening behind the scenes in her world. I like Kristy Nicolle's unique way of laying out the story, and I enjoyed all the characters; even though they did get on my nerves on occasion! I actually would've loved a bit more of a connection between the characters, and also for the story to move a little faster; at times the story was a bit too descriptive. There's a bit of mystery that I really enjoyed, and would've actually loved more of that in the story. Valentine and Clark's relationship was interesting to read because it wasn't typical, and I enjoyed their banter back and forth. The setting for Something Blue was really cool! That's where a lot of the futuristic aspects came into play, which I found to all be interesting. Looking forward to more from Kristy Nicolle!
April 1, 2017
Kristy Nicolle has a way with words unlike no other. She has created a wonderful dystopian world that is highly possible, and frightening. Her characters are extremely developed, but still manage to find a way to play off of each others strengths.
Valentine has no doubts about Bliss Inc, in fact that idea has never even crossed her mind that something might be wrong with their scientific formula, or that the newly introduced Hard Light Holograms are more than they seem. Clark is going to open her eyes to a world, and ideas she had no clue existed.
The theory behind Bliss Inc truly scared and excited me at the same time. A scientific formula for TRUE LOVE? I didn't believe it possible, and neither does Clark. His view of relationships is skewed by his not so brilliant past. He is hot one minute, and then cold the next. Clark is written with an edge of arrogance, that only Valentine can calm down, but for how long? The minute the two of them seem to get close, they find a way to put a wedge back between them. What will it take to finally strengthen their marriage, and help them survive the 100 day assessment?
I highly recommend this book, as it will bring you through the highs and lows of Clark and Valentine's scientifically matched marriage, and expose you to a rich company who is controlling eberyone, and everything, around you.
Valentine has no doubts about Bliss Inc, in fact that idea has never even crossed her mind that something might be wrong with their scientific formula, or that the newly introduced Hard Light Holograms are more than they seem. Clark is going to open her eyes to a world, and ideas she had no clue existed.
The theory behind Bliss Inc truly scared and excited me at the same time. A scientific formula for TRUE LOVE? I didn't believe it possible, and neither does Clark. His view of relationships is skewed by his not so brilliant past. He is hot one minute, and then cold the next. Clark is written with an edge of arrogance, that only Valentine can calm down, but for how long? The minute the two of them seem to get close, they find a way to put a wedge back between them. What will it take to finally strengthen their marriage, and help them survive the 100 day assessment?
I highly recommend this book, as it will bring you through the highs and lows of Clark and Valentine's scientifically matched marriage, and expose you to a rich company who is controlling eberyone, and everything, around you.
March 23, 2017
As I was growing up from a tween to an adult, science fiction and fantasy were my go to books for enjoyment. But, as I became more emotionally mature these types of books became less satisfying because of their lack of strong complex characters that behaved like real humans, even when set in a futuristic or invented worldscape.
Imagine my possible disappointment in the book, Something Blue, when I realized the book I thought was going to be a romance was actually every bit a science fiction novel.
Then I kept reading. Sure enough the science and technology was intricate and futuristic. Very occasionally I would say to myself, "And how did that work?"
But for the most part I was caught up in the beautiful but tortured relationship between Clark and Valentine. They began to realize that they were not a couple perfectly matched by Bliss Inc. but just a man and woman whose admiration of each other turned to love. It was that love that gave them the courage to try and take down the immoral and despicable corporation that had been ruling and ruining humankind for so long.
The main characters are excellently written and the love they develop for each other seems real and many nuanced. Even the supporting characters are believable. The science fiction seemed realistic. I don't get science, but how it was written didn't bother me and occasionally made the story more exciting.
I would certainly read another book by this author and I give her five stars for seamlessly melding science and romance in such a beautifully unexpected way.
Imagine my possible disappointment in the book, Something Blue, when I realized the book I thought was going to be a romance was actually every bit a science fiction novel.
Then I kept reading. Sure enough the science and technology was intricate and futuristic. Very occasionally I would say to myself, "And how did that work?"
But for the most part I was caught up in the beautiful but tortured relationship between Clark and Valentine. They began to realize that they were not a couple perfectly matched by Bliss Inc. but just a man and woman whose admiration of each other turned to love. It was that love that gave them the courage to try and take down the immoral and despicable corporation that had been ruling and ruining humankind for so long.
The main characters are excellently written and the love they develop for each other seems real and many nuanced. Even the supporting characters are believable. The science fiction seemed realistic. I don't get science, but how it was written didn't bother me and occasionally made the story more exciting.
I would certainly read another book by this author and I give her five stars for seamlessly melding science and romance in such a beautifully unexpected way.
April 1, 2017
I have to say that I really love the Authors imagination in this book. The world she created was something out of a movie but at the same time it's something that could totally happen in decades to come.
I love Valentines character. While she was very strong and opinionated she still had those personality traits that gives her that real feel. She was sweet and down to earth and really just wanted the fairy tale.
Clark is the quintessential bad boy hero. He's cold and hard and a total jerk most of the time but it really fits for his character and I liked him. There is a mystery that surrounded him and I was pleasantly surprised about how I wasn't able to figure out what was going on with him but once it comes out, I was shell shocked.
I love the plot it was a futuristic look at pretty much matchmaking dating, but you end up getting married. I really enjoyed watching them get to know one another. it was a pivotal point in the book and it made you decide how you were going to feel about the characters. All the Technology that was in this book, was very intriguing and I thought the author did an amazing job with description.
Overall I loved this book. It was different than I thought it was going to be but in a good way. The authors imagination and writing style help make this book intriguing and different. I do have to say I wish we would've gotten some at Clark's POV just for the fact that it was hard to majorly connect with him and his feelings about everything. 4.5 stars #2OCCJD
I love Valentines character. While she was very strong and opinionated she still had those personality traits that gives her that real feel. She was sweet and down to earth and really just wanted the fairy tale.
Clark is the quintessential bad boy hero. He's cold and hard and a total jerk most of the time but it really fits for his character and I liked him. There is a mystery that surrounded him and I was pleasantly surprised about how I wasn't able to figure out what was going on with him but once it comes out, I was shell shocked.
I love the plot it was a futuristic look at pretty much matchmaking dating, but you end up getting married. I really enjoyed watching them get to know one another. it was a pivotal point in the book and it made you decide how you were going to feel about the characters. All the Technology that was in this book, was very intriguing and I thought the author did an amazing job with description.
Overall I loved this book. It was different than I thought it was going to be but in a good way. The authors imagination and writing style help make this book intriguing and different. I do have to say I wish we would've gotten some at Clark's POV just for the fact that it was hard to majorly connect with him and his feelings about everything. 4.5 stars #2OCCJD
April 1, 2017
I am a hard sell when it comes to books. Many times, I will put the best of the best down within five pages or less. I do not have a lot of time on my hands, and characters and events must grab me and make me care immediately for me to continue. I have been let down by dystopian books before as well, such as the ending of the Divergent series and the non-exciting events in The Giver. This, though, had me on the edge of my seat from the moment it made me feel like I was the one about to take the readiness test. That is the best beginning Kristy could have chosen for this book, and I was hooked! On a side note, the editing could use another once-over, but the story is so darn good it doesn't even matter!
March 22, 2017
I have a soft spot for dystopian books. It's my favorite way to scare myself, because it's always something that could happen. Kristy achieved the dystopian label fabulously. It made not one, but several strong statements that will resonate. I was first sucked into the story by an intriguing concept. Would you marry a complete stranger that has been scientifically chosen to be perfect for you? After meeting the characters there was no way I was putting this story down. They were complex, lovable, and wholly dynamic. There wasn't a single part to this book that could disappoint. From the wedding, to the family dynamics. The honeymoon to the chaos of their first newlywed days. Right on through to the ending. The storyline continues to build, never slowing, until you are left contemplating your own reality.
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