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Maybe Never
One golden boy...
Judd Jackson had it all—star football player with a college scholarship, perfect family, tons of friends, and a beautiful girlfriend. He was the most popular guy in town … until a family secret burned it all to the ground. Now, he’s the object of scorn and ridicule, and the only thing he has left is his scholarship and counting down the days until he can leave town.
One goal-oriented girl...
Sunny Blackfox was alone in the world, but she had big plans and big dreams to keep her occupied. She didn’t have time for anyone in her life. That was, until she came to the rescue of the boy she always had a thing for.
They have everything going against them, but maybe, if they are lucky, they will make it out of town after graduation together ... or maybe never.
Judd Jackson had it all—star football player with a college scholarship, perfect family, tons of friends, and a beautiful girlfriend. He was the most popular guy in town … until a family secret burned it all to the ground. Now, he’s the object of scorn and ridicule, and the only thing he has left is his scholarship and counting down the days until he can leave town.
One goal-oriented girl...
Sunny Blackfox was alone in the world, but she had big plans and big dreams to keep her occupied. She didn’t have time for anyone in her life. That was, until she came to the rescue of the boy she always had a thing for.
They have everything going against them, but maybe, if they are lucky, they will make it out of town after graduation together ... or maybe never.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2017
101 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
Sadie Allen
12 books120 followersSadie Allen is the author of four novels and has several more trapped inside her head. Her dreams of becoming an author started in fourth grade when she wrote a story about a disastrous Thanksgiving where a cat jumped inside the turkey.
She currently lives in Texas with her husband and three small children but is still hopeful her Hogwarts acceptance letter will be in the mail but will settle for Camp Half-Blood. When she’s not pretending to write, she’s chasing children around the house or store or ballfield, or helping her husband do something on the farm.
YA BOOKS
Maybe Never
Saving Me
ADULT ROMANTIC SUSPENSE
Always Been You
Always With Me
COMING SOON:
Deadly Magic (New YA Series)
Always Love You (Cedar Lake, #3)
Killing Devon Peters (YA Standalone)
Connect with her online:
Website: www.sadieallen.net
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She currently lives in Texas with her husband and three small children but is still hopeful her Hogwarts acceptance letter will be in the mail but will settle for Camp Half-Blood. When she’s not pretending to write, she’s chasing children around the house or store or ballfield, or helping her husband do something on the farm.
YA BOOKS
Maybe Never
Saving Me
ADULT ROMANTIC SUSPENSE
Always Been You
Always With Me
COMING SOON:
Deadly Magic (New YA Series)
Always Love You (Cedar Lake, #3)
Killing Devon Peters (YA Standalone)
Connect with her online:
Website: www.sadieallen.net
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sadie...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sadie-Allen/e/...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorsadie...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorsadiea...
Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/23818...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/writersadie
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/writersadie
Join Sadie Allen’s Monthly Newsletter to Receive:
● Upcoming sales
● New releases and book news
● Exclusive content and character updates
● Sneak peeks and teasers
● Early cover reveals
● And much more!
Sign up here: http://bit.ly/2CxK1VE
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
January 12, 2018
This was fine. The story is particularly good for the romance that the two protagonists, Sunny and Judd shared, especially the way it gradually went uphill and wasn't instant. Other than that, the story fell flat to me for most of the parts.
Both, Sunny and Judd, are outcasts with their own problems to tackle. However, they find their best support in one another and often in themselves, which I definitely liked. Sunny had a granny who passed away, a mother who died at the time of her birth, and a drunkard of a father who gets violent with her. Judd, though, was the star of the school—popular and handsome—but the one decision his father made, to be a transgender, changed his life. The two plot lines were interesting, no doubt, but the way it was all dragged with a bit too much drama, made it annoying.
Also, while the entire world around Judd is judging his father for running away from his house, he also does the same. Like why? I mean, the story started off on the wrong foot for me when even Judd looks down upon his father's choice and blames him for the embarrassment that he and his mother has to go through. I would've preferred a protagonist who would've not judged his Dad and instead stood up for himself.
Both, Sunny and Judd, are outcasts with their own problems to tackle. However, they find their best support in one another and often in themselves, which I definitely liked. Sunny had a granny who passed away, a mother who died at the time of her birth, and a drunkard of a father who gets violent with her. Judd, though, was the star of the school—popular and handsome—but the one decision his father made, to be a transgender, changed his life. The two plot lines were interesting, no doubt, but the way it was all dragged with a bit too much drama, made it annoying.
Also, while the entire world around Judd is judging his father for running away from his house, he also does the same. Like why? I mean, the story started off on the wrong foot for me when even Judd looks down upon his father's choice and blames him for the embarrassment that he and his mother has to go through. I would've preferred a protagonist who would've not judged his Dad and instead stood up for himself.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book via Netgalley but that in no way influences my rating and/or opinions about it. Thank you Saddie Allen!
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January 28, 2018
Yep. This was exactly what I needed after my latest disappointing reading experience.
A story full of tenderness and light-heartedness, featuring a cast of well fleshed-out characters, most notably this amazing, amazing - did I say amazing? - young heroine. It's hard to find one of those in the YA/NA genre.
The romance felt genuine and real, even though it was quite cheesy at times. But that's what first love is, right?
This book deals with sensitive topics such as bullying, racism, conservative intolerance and sexual orientation, but in a way that makes it easy to digest.
Also, I loved Sadie Allen's choice of family scandal (can't say I've read about that one before).
If you're in the mood for a sweet, compelling, easy yet surprisingly profound read with loveable lead characters, you should really check this one out.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2018
Why am I late read this book?!?!
It was sooo good. I just love it the story of Judd and Sunny. It has all the things that I like to read in a book. Such as romance, tragic and drama moments, funny moments and the writing was so realistic.
4 (not maybe) stars !!!
It was sooo good. I just love it the story of Judd and Sunny. It has all the things that I like to read in a book. Such as romance, tragic and drama moments, funny moments and the writing was so realistic.
4 (not maybe) stars !!!
May 2, 2019
Sunny Blackfox (who has Native Indian ancestry) and Judd Jackson have become the social pariahs of their small town high school. Sunny's father is the town drunk and Judd Jackson's father (the high school football coach) recently left town when he was outed for being transgender.
Sunny and Judd form a friendship which grows into something more as they support each other through their final months before graduation. Judd was deeply hurt that his father left town without even saying goodbye to him. His mother turned to alcohol for comfort and Sunny is the only good thing to happen to him in a very long time: he learned the hard way who his true friends were now that his family was the talk of the town.
One reviewer was uncomfortable with the fact that Judd was embarrassed by his father's transgender identification, but, as I read it, his discomfort was part of the story line - Judd had to learn to form his own opinions away from his former false friends, and grow as a person. Ashley and Asher (Judd's former girlfriend and best friend) used their social position in the school hierarchy to torment and ridicule Judd and it was his former friends' ignorance and intolerance that Judd suffered from most. Judd is shown later in the story to be accepting of his father's choice. Judd was angry at his father, but still loved and missed him. The evolution of Judd's understanding and acceptance was the result of all the taunting he had to endure: he could only just imagine what his father would have had to put up with had he stayed. (SPOILER ALERT: In the epilogue, Judd reunites with his father, who has now fully transitioned into a female, and Judd is happy to see him, admitting that he wanted his father to be happy, and felt badly that his father had not been able to be his true self in their small, backward town.)
Obviously, Sunny and Judd could not wait for the day that they would see the last of their "time-warped," small-minded town in their rear view mirror as they headed off to Dallas (Judd on a football scholarship, and Sunny to attend culinary school.) Sunny's parting words were very apt: they had endured all the bullying and harshness thrown at them and were going to have the best revenge - by leaving and living their best life possible, despite everything that had been done to them. I give this a 3.75 out of 5.
Sunny and Judd form a friendship which grows into something more as they support each other through their final months before graduation. Judd was deeply hurt that his father left town without even saying goodbye to him. His mother turned to alcohol for comfort and Sunny is the only good thing to happen to him in a very long time: he learned the hard way who his true friends were now that his family was the talk of the town.
One reviewer was uncomfortable with the fact that Judd was embarrassed by his father's transgender identification, but, as I read it, his discomfort was part of the story line - Judd had to learn to form his own opinions away from his former false friends, and grow as a person. Ashley and Asher (Judd's former girlfriend and best friend) used their social position in the school hierarchy to torment and ridicule Judd and it was his former friends' ignorance and intolerance that Judd suffered from most. Judd is shown later in the story to be accepting of his father's choice. Judd was angry at his father, but still loved and missed him. The evolution of Judd's understanding and acceptance was the result of all the taunting he had to endure: he could only just imagine what his father would have had to put up with had he stayed. (SPOILER ALERT: In the epilogue, Judd reunites with his father, who has now fully transitioned into a female, and Judd is happy to see him, admitting that he wanted his father to be happy, and felt badly that his father had not been able to be his true self in their small, backward town.)
Obviously, Sunny and Judd could not wait for the day that they would see the last of their "time-warped," small-minded town in their rear view mirror as they headed off to Dallas (Judd on a football scholarship, and Sunny to attend culinary school.) Sunny's parting words were very apt: they had endured all the bullying and harshness thrown at them and were going to have the best revenge - by leaving and living their best life possible, despite everything that had been done to them. I give this a 3.75 out of 5.
March 1, 2017
Oh, the feels! Maybe Never tells the story of Judd, who goes from being the popular kid that everyone wants to be or date to completely ostracized by his friends and the town. Right from the start, I wanted to reach through the pages and hug him. Nothing was his fault, yet he was the one everyone picked on and humiliated ... like he hadn't already been humiliated enough. Poor Judd. :(
Then there is Sunny, who is so brave and smart; a girl who has her life planned out and is well put together. Sunny is the girl all other girls should exemplify. However, she has been through a lot to become the strong person she is.
There are some controversial topics discussed in the book, stigmas that come from a small town, and family dynamics that would crush a normal kid. It's truly a story that will touch you deeply and isn't soon to be forgotten. It's a story about strength and overcoming prejudice. A story about right and wrong, justice, and of course love.
Then there is Sunny, who is so brave and smart; a girl who has her life planned out and is well put together. Sunny is the girl all other girls should exemplify. However, she has been through a lot to become the strong person she is.
There are some controversial topics discussed in the book, stigmas that come from a small town, and family dynamics that would crush a normal kid. It's truly a story that will touch you deeply and isn't soon to be forgotten. It's a story about strength and overcoming prejudice. A story about right and wrong, justice, and of course love.
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February 26, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/26/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
One golden boy...
Judd Jackson had it all—star football player with a college scholarship, perfect family, tons of friends, and a beautiful girlfriend. He was the most popular guy in town … until a family secret burned it all to the ground. Now, he’s the object of scorn and ridicule, and the only thing he has left is his scholarship and counting down the days until he can leave town.
One goal-oriented girl...
Sunny Blackfox was alone in the world, but she had big plans and big dreams to keep her occupied. She didn’t have time for anyone in her life. That was, until she came to the rescue of the boy she always had a thing for.
They have everything going against them, but maybe, if they are lucky, they will make it out of town after graduation together ... or maybe never.
Blurb:
One golden boy...
Judd Jackson had it all—star football player with a college scholarship, perfect family, tons of friends, and a beautiful girlfriend. He was the most popular guy in town … until a family secret burned it all to the ground. Now, he’s the object of scorn and ridicule, and the only thing he has left is his scholarship and counting down the days until he can leave town.
One goal-oriented girl...
Sunny Blackfox was alone in the world, but she had big plans and big dreams to keep her occupied. She didn’t have time for anyone in her life. That was, until she came to the rescue of the boy she always had a thing for.
They have everything going against them, but maybe, if they are lucky, they will make it out of town after graduation together ... or maybe never.
January 6, 2019
*I received this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
I really enjoyed this book and flew through it to the point where i had no clue what time it was all i knew was i couldn't stop reading. I loved that the story was told in two points of view from both Judd and Sunny. I liked that they both had problems with their families but together they could forget everything and focus on their future. Their friendship turn romance was genuine and I'm so happy that they found and cared for each other and no matter what was thrown at them they overcome it together. I did feel for sunny as she seemed to be the one who had the bad stuff happen to her over again. This book deals with many sensitive topics in our society including: bullying, racism, conservative intolerance and sexual orientation. I really enjoyed the ending and glad tahat the main characters got the peace that they deserved.
I gave this book 5 stars as i loved it!
I really enjoyed this book and flew through it to the point where i had no clue what time it was all i knew was i couldn't stop reading. I loved that the story was told in two points of view from both Judd and Sunny. I liked that they both had problems with their families but together they could forget everything and focus on their future. Their friendship turn romance was genuine and I'm so happy that they found and cared for each other and no matter what was thrown at them they overcome it together. I did feel for sunny as she seemed to be the one who had the bad stuff happen to her over again. This book deals with many sensitive topics in our society including: bullying, racism, conservative intolerance and sexual orientation. I really enjoyed the ending and glad tahat the main characters got the peace that they deserved.
I gave this book 5 stars as i loved it!
March 30, 2017
***5 ‘Teenage Yoda’ Stars***
The cover was what drew me in and after reading the description my curiosity got the better of me and I needed to find out what this book was all about and I’m happy I took a chance on it. From the first page I was hooked and had a difficult time putting it down. This sweet romance brought out all the feels as Judd and Sunny navigated their way through the fallout from a secret that tore Judd’s family apart.
Sunny’s life hasn’t been easy, but with the love and support of her tight knit circle she has thrived and is determined to see her dreams become reality. I absolutely adored Sunny. I think I want to be her when I grow up. She has a good heart, a good head on her shoulders and stood up for herself and others when necessary, but did it in such a way that I couldn’t help but admire because it was about doing the right thing and showing strength, but trying to draw attention to herself. And though she is 18 and has the insecurities and doubts that come with it, she was much more mature and aware than many around her.
Judd has been the golden boy all his life and has always been apart of the popular crowd, until a secret is unceremoniously revealed and everything he knew came crashing down around him. My heart hurt for Judd and how people were treating him. The secret wasn’t his, but he ended up being everyone’s punching bag. What I admired about his was how he dealt with all the crap, it wasn’t easy but he kept his head and focus on his future. What endeared him to me and then morphed into adoration was that while he was popular he hadn’t been an asshat, simply clueless to those around him. He was happy in his little bubble and didn’t think further than that. But with all that gone he took a hard look at himself, acknowledged his shortsightedness and worked at becoming a better person.
I loved watching Sunny and Judd’s relationship evolve as they went from strangers to friends to a couple and the entire process felt natural. They got to know each other and became each others rocks in a world that wasn’t treating either of them kindly. What I enjoyed the most was how Sunny’s strength and sense of self ended up helping Judd work through his own issues and shift his perception of himself and his current situation. Their romance is very much on the sweet end of the spectrum and I think it was the perfect fit for them. That isn’t to say that sex isn’t mentioned or alluded to, we are dealing with teenagers with raging hormones after all, it’s just not the focus of their relationship. I liked where they are at when the book ended, but I can’t deny that I wanted more time with them and see where the road took them as they drove off into the sunset.
This was my first read by Sadie Allen and I really enjoyed it. It was engaging, well paced and I really enjoyed the dual 1st person POV’s. I liked that we got the more transitioning to the adult side of the YA/NA genre with Judd and Sunny than being mired in young/new side of it and all that tends to come with it. There were a couple of twists tossed into the story that surprised me, but they all made sense and gave more depth to the characters and the story. So, if you’re looking for a sweet and quick read with heart and characters you can get behind and fall in love with give this one a try!
~ Copy provided by InkSlinger PR ~
The cover was what drew me in and after reading the description my curiosity got the better of me and I needed to find out what this book was all about and I’m happy I took a chance on it. From the first page I was hooked and had a difficult time putting it down. This sweet romance brought out all the feels as Judd and Sunny navigated their way through the fallout from a secret that tore Judd’s family apart.
Sunny’s life hasn’t been easy, but with the love and support of her tight knit circle she has thrived and is determined to see her dreams become reality. I absolutely adored Sunny. I think I want to be her when I grow up. She has a good heart, a good head on her shoulders and stood up for herself and others when necessary, but did it in such a way that I couldn’t help but admire because it was about doing the right thing and showing strength, but trying to draw attention to herself. And though she is 18 and has the insecurities and doubts that come with it, she was much more mature and aware than many around her.
Judd has been the golden boy all his life and has always been apart of the popular crowd, until a secret is unceremoniously revealed and everything he knew came crashing down around him. My heart hurt for Judd and how people were treating him. The secret wasn’t his, but he ended up being everyone’s punching bag. What I admired about his was how he dealt with all the crap, it wasn’t easy but he kept his head and focus on his future. What endeared him to me and then morphed into adoration was that while he was popular he hadn’t been an asshat, simply clueless to those around him. He was happy in his little bubble and didn’t think further than that. But with all that gone he took a hard look at himself, acknowledged his shortsightedness and worked at becoming a better person.
I loved watching Sunny and Judd’s relationship evolve as they went from strangers to friends to a couple and the entire process felt natural. They got to know each other and became each others rocks in a world that wasn’t treating either of them kindly. What I enjoyed the most was how Sunny’s strength and sense of self ended up helping Judd work through his own issues and shift his perception of himself and his current situation. Their romance is very much on the sweet end of the spectrum and I think it was the perfect fit for them. That isn’t to say that sex isn’t mentioned or alluded to, we are dealing with teenagers with raging hormones after all, it’s just not the focus of their relationship. I liked where they are at when the book ended, but I can’t deny that I wanted more time with them and see where the road took them as they drove off into the sunset.
This was my first read by Sadie Allen and I really enjoyed it. It was engaging, well paced and I really enjoyed the dual 1st person POV’s. I liked that we got the more transitioning to the adult side of the YA/NA genre with Judd and Sunny than being mired in young/new side of it and all that tends to come with it. There were a couple of twists tossed into the story that surprised me, but they all made sense and gave more depth to the characters and the story. So, if you’re looking for a sweet and quick read with heart and characters you can get behind and fall in love with give this one a try!
~ Copy provided by InkSlinger PR ~
March 27, 2017
This is a wonderful story, definitely one of the best I have read this year.
Sunny Blackfox lost her family to death and alcohol, she lived in a well loved trailer owned by her beloved grandmother. Although she was basically alone except for her best friend / neighbor and her boss, Sunny was one of the strongest heroine I have ever read. She studied, she worked,she cooked,she baked and she planned for a brighter future for herself.
Although her father abandoned her,she did not have daddy issue and did not need anyone to fulfill her loneliness, as I mentioned above, she kept herself busy. She was called names because of her alcoholic dad+ where she lived but that did not stop her from coming to Judd Jackson's rescue.
Judd Jackson was one of the popular kids due to his talent on the football field + having a dad,an ex football player turned coach. The popularity came to an end when his father decided to be what he wanted to be which was unacceptable in the small town where they lived. Judd had a rough time, harassed by the same people he used to be friends with, his mum started an affair with wine, no one was talking to him at school, he was all alone until Sunny could not take it anymore and began defending and healing him.
This story is perfect, I am in L.O.V.E with Sunny Blackfox, Judd was great too.
Oh ya, Sunny can cook+bake too,how can I resist her?
Please spend your precious time with Sunny and Judd. They warmed my heart, hope they'll do the same to yours
Sunny Blackfox lost her family to death and alcohol, she lived in a well loved trailer owned by her beloved grandmother. Although she was basically alone except for her best friend / neighbor and her boss, Sunny was one of the strongest heroine I have ever read. She studied, she worked,she cooked,she baked and she planned for a brighter future for herself.
Although her father abandoned her,she did not have daddy issue and did not need anyone to fulfill her loneliness, as I mentioned above, she kept herself busy. She was called names because of her alcoholic dad+ where she lived but that did not stop her from coming to Judd Jackson's rescue.
Judd Jackson was one of the popular kids due to his talent on the football field + having a dad,an ex football player turned coach. The popularity came to an end when his father decided to be what he wanted to be which was unacceptable in the small town where they lived. Judd had a rough time, harassed by the same people he used to be friends with, his mum started an affair with wine, no one was talking to him at school, he was all alone until Sunny could not take it anymore and began defending and healing him.
This story is perfect, I am in L.O.V.E with Sunny Blackfox, Judd was great too.
Oh ya, Sunny can cook+bake too,how can I resist her?
Please spend your precious time with Sunny and Judd. They warmed my heart, hope they'll do the same to yours
March 25, 2017
4 stars!
This is a gorgeously written mature YA book - an emotional, dramatic and romantic story that deals with some pretty heavy themes, but that is also sweet, funny and uplifting. This book captivated me from start to finish, and I loved it!
Judd Jackson was the golden boy who had it all – quarterback with a college scholarship, good looks, popularity, best friends and a hot girlfriend. But a family secret ruined it all, and now, through no fault of his own, he is an outcast who is subjected to strange looks from total strangers and daily ridicule by the people he used to call his friends.
Judd is existing for the day that he can finally leave town for good and start over… and then along comes Sunny Blackfox.
Sunny is quiet and a bit of a loner. She is also all alone and has been through so much in her short life, but she is hanging in there waiting for graduation so that she can get out of town and attend culinary school and make her dreams come true. Sunny had crushed on Judd from afar for most of her childhood, but like most of the people she attended school with, he never really noticed her. But when they are paired up for a school assignment, and she sticks up for him against the people that are making his life miserable, he suddenly starts to pay attention.
Judd and Sunny have a beautiful, beautiful relationship. Both considered outcasts, they quickly become friends, and feelings soon develop as they begin to spend time together. Both of them have been beaten down by life, but while Judd has taken the ‘head in the sand’ stance, planning to ignore it all until he can leave, Sunny is bold and brave. She fights back, determined to protect herself and Judd from those that would tear them down, and she teaches him so much about standing up for himself. She’s a wonderfully positive girl who is strong, brave and resilient with a great sense of humour and I absolutely loved her!
The development of their love story is easy, natural, and so, so sweet! Judd may have been brought low but he still has a spark to him, and I loved the confidence that he had in flirting with Sunny mixed with the vulnerability that he felt knowing that she was something special and wanting to do right by her. Neither of them have experienced feelings like the ones they have for each other, and watching them fall was absolutely gorgeous!
But as much as Judd and Sunny want to be together, real life and the dark characters in their lives are determined to get in the way. They battle against violence, brutality, neglectful parents, vicious schoolmates, and pure circumstance as they count down the weeks until they can get away. And their battle to stand strong in spite of it all will be the fight of their very lives.
I love a really well written romantic YA drama, and that is exactly what this book is. Allen sucked me in from the very beginning with her beautifully descriptive storytelling – from the town to the people who inhabit it, and of course Judd and Sunny. I fell in love with both of them individually and I couldn’t get enough of either of them. Their stories are truly heartbreaking, but I loved watching them find something so special together.
Their story is tragic yet beautifully heartwarming. The drama is pretty intense at times but it’s balanced well with lighter, sweet moments that made me smile, and though their journey is a difficult one, I loved watching it all play out.
This is my first book by Sadie Allen and I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of her work in the future (I’m especially hoping for a book for Sunny’s best friend Molly)
I loved this one – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is a gorgeously written mature YA book - an emotional, dramatic and romantic story that deals with some pretty heavy themes, but that is also sweet, funny and uplifting. This book captivated me from start to finish, and I loved it!
Judd Jackson was the golden boy who had it all – quarterback with a college scholarship, good looks, popularity, best friends and a hot girlfriend. But a family secret ruined it all, and now, through no fault of his own, he is an outcast who is subjected to strange looks from total strangers and daily ridicule by the people he used to call his friends.
You only really knew who your true friends were when you were at your lowest with nothing to offer. After the smoke cleared, that was when you finally saw who was left standing beside you. Unfortunately for me, I found myself alone when everything had been said and done.
Judd is existing for the day that he can finally leave town for good and start over… and then along comes Sunny Blackfox.
Sunny is quiet and a bit of a loner. She is also all alone and has been through so much in her short life, but she is hanging in there waiting for graduation so that she can get out of town and attend culinary school and make her dreams come true. Sunny had crushed on Judd from afar for most of her childhood, but like most of the people she attended school with, he never really noticed her. But when they are paired up for a school assignment, and she sticks up for him against the people that are making his life miserable, he suddenly starts to pay attention.
I didn’t know whether I wanted to laugh or cry because of this girl.
She was like a teenage Yoda, I could swear.
Judd and Sunny have a beautiful, beautiful relationship. Both considered outcasts, they quickly become friends, and feelings soon develop as they begin to spend time together. Both of them have been beaten down by life, but while Judd has taken the ‘head in the sand’ stance, planning to ignore it all until he can leave, Sunny is bold and brave. She fights back, determined to protect herself and Judd from those that would tear them down, and she teaches him so much about standing up for himself. She’s a wonderfully positive girl who is strong, brave and resilient with a great sense of humour and I absolutely loved her!
The development of their love story is easy, natural, and so, so sweet! Judd may have been brought low but he still has a spark to him, and I loved the confidence that he had in flirting with Sunny mixed with the vulnerability that he felt knowing that she was something special and wanting to do right by her. Neither of them have experienced feelings like the ones they have for each other, and watching them fall was absolutely gorgeous!
I looked down into her beautiful face, cataloguing every feature: her dark, fathomless eyes; her smooth, soft-looking skin; and her full lips. I never stood a chance.
As I studied her, her eyes searched mine, and then she bit her lip, and I was gone.
But as much as Judd and Sunny want to be together, real life and the dark characters in their lives are determined to get in the way. They battle against violence, brutality, neglectful parents, vicious schoolmates, and pure circumstance as they count down the weeks until they can get away. And their battle to stand strong in spite of it all will be the fight of their very lives.
I love a really well written romantic YA drama, and that is exactly what this book is. Allen sucked me in from the very beginning with her beautifully descriptive storytelling – from the town to the people who inhabit it, and of course Judd and Sunny. I fell in love with both of them individually and I couldn’t get enough of either of them. Their stories are truly heartbreaking, but I loved watching them find something so special together.
As long as he looked at me with that soft, sweet look offering me his hand, I would follow him anywhere.
Their story is tragic yet beautifully heartwarming. The drama is pretty intense at times but it’s balanced well with lighter, sweet moments that made me smile, and though their journey is a difficult one, I loved watching it all play out.
This is my first book by Sadie Allen and I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of her work in the future (I’m especially hoping for a book for Sunny’s best friend Molly)
I loved this one – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2018
Alright I will just jump into this and pour my feelings about this book.
Let me tell you, I really did enjoy this, but there was that something that felt short and lacking about the story and I cannot quite put my finger on it...
I loved the diversity, we had a strong female character that stood her ground and was mature for her age. A native American (of half native America was not very clear), a transgender father, a ''pretty boy'' that struggles to survive his high school and his degrading relationship with his alcoholic mother. Extreme bullying and of course love story.
The story could have been much better if some of the topics in it were more developed and not just superficially placed there just to make the plot running. It had potential that for me was not used at its best.
Towards the end of the book was the downhill for me, everything felt rushed, Judd and Sunny at some point started to act out of character, and it made me really annoyed because I was left with the impression that they both were mature and then BAM! there goes your maturity.. I do not want to spoil anything, therefore cannot talk much in details, but why did we focused more on Sunny's daddy issues instead of Judd's? I wanted to get to know him better know his past, his pain from his dad abandoning them especially after knowing that he is transgender, this is not a spoiler you get to know about this at the first chapter of the book.
Also the fact that there were some grammatical errors just drove me nuts (I am not a native English speaker and by no means I claim to be a good one, but there were mistakes that a toddler would have noticed) and then the repetition of one phrase made me facepalm more than once: ''I let out a breath I hadn't realized I had been holding.'' mm yep I will have this phrase lingering on my mind for a bit now...
Another thing that bothered me a lot and made me give it 3 stars instead of 3.5 was the hospital scene and what followed afterwards was just a mess and chaos for me. I felt let down and rushed and a bit disappointed.
Overall I still recommend it, I just wished it was executed a little bit better and more in depth.
Let me tell you, I really did enjoy this, but there was that something that felt short and lacking about the story and I cannot quite put my finger on it...
I loved the diversity, we had a strong female character that stood her ground and was mature for her age. A native American (of half native America was not very clear), a transgender father, a ''pretty boy'' that struggles to survive his high school and his degrading relationship with his alcoholic mother. Extreme bullying and of course love story.
The story could have been much better if some of the topics in it were more developed and not just superficially placed there just to make the plot running. It had potential that for me was not used at its best.
Towards the end of the book was the downhill for me, everything felt rushed, Judd and Sunny at some point started to act out of character, and it made me really annoyed because I was left with the impression that they both were mature and then BAM! there goes your maturity.. I do not want to spoil anything, therefore cannot talk much in details, but why did we focused more on Sunny's daddy issues instead of Judd's? I wanted to get to know him better know his past, his pain from his dad abandoning them especially after knowing that he is transgender, this is not a spoiler you get to know about this at the first chapter of the book.
Also the fact that there were some grammatical errors just drove me nuts (I am not a native English speaker and by no means I claim to be a good one, but there were mistakes that a toddler would have noticed) and then the repetition of one phrase made me facepalm more than once: ''I let out a breath I hadn't realized I had been holding.'' mm yep I will have this phrase lingering on my mind for a bit now...
Another thing that bothered me a lot and made me give it 3 stars instead of 3.5 was the hospital scene and what followed afterwards was just a mess and chaos for me. I felt let down and rushed and a bit disappointed.
Overall I still recommend it, I just wished it was executed a little bit better and more in depth.
March 10, 2017
Finding your feet in your teens is hard. It's even harder in a small town, when you don't quite fit in. Judd and Sunny find out what it means to find your feet when someone's willing to hold your hand.
These two may have started their high school experiences in very different places, but the end in the same... on the outside. And sometimes the outside is where you find yourself. Sadie Allen introduces us to Judd when he's been on the outside for a while, but still hasn't accepted it, not really. He doesn't fully accept it until the one person willing to hold his hand on the outside, figuratively pulls him up, dusts him off, and he finally sees he isn't alone.
Anyone whose been on the outside looking in, will find themselves in these two. And the prom ask will make you smile... I won't say anything else. Read it, you'll fall in love.
These two may have started their high school experiences in very different places, but the end in the same... on the outside. And sometimes the outside is where you find yourself. Sadie Allen introduces us to Judd when he's been on the outside for a while, but still hasn't accepted it, not really. He doesn't fully accept it until the one person willing to hold his hand on the outside, figuratively pulls him up, dusts him off, and he finally sees he isn't alone.
Anyone whose been on the outside looking in, will find themselves in these two. And the prom ask will make you smile... I won't say anything else. Read it, you'll fall in love.
April 12, 2017
Originally posted on Daydreaming Books. Head over to my blog to read can interview with the author herself!
*I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
This book was so much more than I expected and it definitely didn't disappoint. I fell in love with this story and I enjoyed the ride till the very end.
Judd Jackson had it all, from college scholarship to best friends and a hot girlfriend. But everything goes down in drain when one his family secrets is revealed and he becomes their new target of bullying until Sunny comes into the picture. She always had a thing for Judd and when they are made class partner, an unlikely friendship form between the two which escalates into something more they both can't deny.
I really enjoyed the plot. The story was pretty engaging right from the start and I couldn't put this book down! After a family secret gets revealed, Judd becomes an outcast and the subject of bullying from his very own friends and girlfriend. I really hated how he was treated for something that was not even his fault which revealed how superficial his friends were.
I liked Judd, he was a great guy but I wished he stood up more for himself. His anger with his father's situation was just but I wished we got to learn a bit more about it but I felt satisfied with the ending. Anyway, I loved Sunny! She was upfront and didn't take any shit from people. When she chose Judd's side, it did bring her a lot of trouble but I was glad she didn't back up from them.
The chemistry between Judd and Sunny was pretty great, their relationship developed slowly and I fell in love with their romance! Those two were definitely not devoid of flaws but together, they were perfect. I really enjoyed Molly's character, she was a great best friend and I definitely can't rule out Sally, she was a great parent figure for her. But the one character that I truly hated was Sunny's dad, I'm so glad he got the deserved punishment for what he did.
Overall, Maybe Never was a great read! The plot was executed neatly and I fell in love with the characters. I really enjoyed the romance between Judd and Sally and I couldn't stop myself from wanting more. The writing was smooth and beautiful and the pace was even throughout the book. I am absolutely keeping my eyes out for the next book by this author!
Recommend it?
Yes!
*I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
This book was so much more than I expected and it definitely didn't disappoint. I fell in love with this story and I enjoyed the ride till the very end.
Judd Jackson had it all, from college scholarship to best friends and a hot girlfriend. But everything goes down in drain when one his family secrets is revealed and he becomes their new target of bullying until Sunny comes into the picture. She always had a thing for Judd and when they are made class partner, an unlikely friendship form between the two which escalates into something more they both can't deny.
I really enjoyed the plot. The story was pretty engaging right from the start and I couldn't put this book down! After a family secret gets revealed, Judd becomes an outcast and the subject of bullying from his very own friends and girlfriend. I really hated how he was treated for something that was not even his fault which revealed how superficial his friends were.
“You only really knew who your true friends were when you were at your lowest with nothing to offer. After the smoke cleared, that was when you finally saw who was left standing beside you.”
I liked Judd, he was a great guy but I wished he stood up more for himself. His anger with his father's situation was just but I wished we got to learn a bit more about it but I felt satisfied with the ending. Anyway, I loved Sunny! She was upfront and didn't take any shit from people. When she chose Judd's side, it did bring her a lot of trouble but I was glad she didn't back up from them.
The chemistry between Judd and Sunny was pretty great, their relationship developed slowly and I fell in love with their romance! Those two were definitely not devoid of flaws but together, they were perfect. I really enjoyed Molly's character, she was a great best friend and I definitely can't rule out Sally, she was a great parent figure for her. But the one character that I truly hated was Sunny's dad, I'm so glad he got the deserved punishment for what he did.
Overall, Maybe Never was a great read! The plot was executed neatly and I fell in love with the characters. I really enjoyed the romance between Judd and Sally and I couldn't stop myself from wanting more. The writing was smooth and beautiful and the pace was even throughout the book. I am absolutely keeping my eyes out for the next book by this author!
Recommend it?
Yes!
January 13, 2018
2.5 stars
*** ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
Unfortunately book didn’t grab my attention, just the opposite, in fact. It bored me.
There were a LOT of cliches and they weren’t made in a way that made me like them.
There were also some “fresh” subjects, like Jude’s father scandal. But that was handled so superficially that instead of adding angst to the story and some good drama, it made it boring and unreal. I expected at least some resolving after the whole book, some closure.
Maybe Never was an unbelievable story for me and nothing in it felt real, unfortunately.
The writing wasn’t that bad, but I feel like that waa the wrong plotting for this book.
*** ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
Unfortunately book didn’t grab my attention, just the opposite, in fact. It bored me.
There were a LOT of cliches and they weren’t made in a way that made me like them.
There were also some “fresh” subjects, like Jude’s father scandal. But that was handled so superficially that instead of adding angst to the story and some good drama, it made it boring and unreal. I expected at least some resolving after the whole book, some closure.
Maybe Never was an unbelievable story for me and nothing in it felt real, unfortunately.
The writing wasn’t that bad, but I feel like that waa the wrong plotting for this book.
March 9, 2018
A huge Thank You to Sadie Allen via Netgalley, for allowing me to read Maybe Never by Sadie Allen.
Trigger Warning:
Bullying as a result of having a trans-parent.
Alcoholic Parents
Physical Abuse
Sexual Assault
Gun Violence & Attempted Murder
I was drawn to Maybe Never because of the truly pretty cover.
What I received was two characters who, unbeknownst to them, would be huge parts of each others lives in just short days. What I received, was, two characters who have difficult lives in the small-minded town where they live.
There are two different points of view within Maybe Never.
The first and the one we read from the most is Judd. Judd is an honestly an all around great guy. I won’t say much more since I don’t want to spoil anything. I’m glad that the majority of the story is told in Judd’s point of view since quite a few YA Romance’s are told in a female’s point of view if the story isn’t a heterosexual romance.
The second point of view that we read from is Sunny. Sunny’s point of view is very much appreciated. Sunny brings a certain light to the story that would otherwise be very dark without. Sunny is such an emotionally strong character. I mean, she has to be, in her situation, otherwise she’d break. Sunny is the kind of girl who’d stand up for someone if no one else does/did.
Both Judd’s and Sunny’s story are complicated. They come from opposite sides of the tracks, and frankly if they didn’t fall in together they could have had VERY different stories. Together, they tell the story of falling in love with each other.
What I liked about Maybe Never was not only their individual stories, and their story together as a whole, but, I love the fact that Judd respected Sunny’s view point on sex and didn’t pressure her at all. I also like the fact that Judd and Sunny’s lives weren’t dumped on us at the beginning. Information about them was more of a slow-release, which kept me interested in the story.
Most of all, what I liked about this novel was that there were verbal admissions of being wrong, that there was talk about consent. That there were multiple times where the “bad guys” could have won, but the characters took control of themselves and didn’t let what happened to them affect their relationship.
A great thing about Maybe Never is that out of the one prediction I had made, only part of it came true.
Overall, I genuinely loved this book. I’m very happy with how Judd and Sunny’s stories have turned out!
Trigger Warning:
Bullying as a result of having a trans-parent.
Alcoholic Parents
Physical Abuse
Sexual Assault
Gun Violence & Attempted Murder
I was drawn to Maybe Never because of the truly pretty cover.
What I received was two characters who, unbeknownst to them, would be huge parts of each others lives in just short days. What I received, was, two characters who have difficult lives in the small-minded town where they live.
There are two different points of view within Maybe Never.
The first and the one we read from the most is Judd. Judd is an honestly an all around great guy. I won’t say much more since I don’t want to spoil anything. I’m glad that the majority of the story is told in Judd’s point of view since quite a few YA Romance’s are told in a female’s point of view if the story isn’t a heterosexual romance.
The second point of view that we read from is Sunny. Sunny’s point of view is very much appreciated. Sunny brings a certain light to the story that would otherwise be very dark without. Sunny is such an emotionally strong character. I mean, she has to be, in her situation, otherwise she’d break. Sunny is the kind of girl who’d stand up for someone if no one else does/did.
Both Judd’s and Sunny’s story are complicated. They come from opposite sides of the tracks, and frankly if they didn’t fall in together they could have had VERY different stories. Together, they tell the story of falling in love with each other.
What I liked about Maybe Never was not only their individual stories, and their story together as a whole, but, I love the fact that Judd respected Sunny’s view point on sex and didn’t pressure her at all. I also like the fact that Judd and Sunny’s lives weren’t dumped on us at the beginning. Information about them was more of a slow-release, which kept me interested in the story.
Most of all, what I liked about this novel was that there were verbal admissions of being wrong, that there was talk about consent. That there were multiple times where the “bad guys” could have won, but the characters took control of themselves and didn’t let what happened to them affect their relationship.
A great thing about Maybe Never is that out of the one prediction I had made, only part of it came true.
Overall, I genuinely loved this book. I’m very happy with how Judd and Sunny’s stories have turned out!
March 6, 2017
Really enjoyed this read. It's is my first book by this author and I definitely had all the feels reading it. Judd was the all American teenager. On the football team, scholarship, friends, girls and hot girlfriend. His dad is even the teams coach, that is, until his Dad is discovered to be hiding a bit of a scandalous secret. After up and leaving Judd and his mom are left with the fall-out and oh how the mighty fall. Judd goes from popular to being ostracised and bullied by his ex best friend and ex girlfriend.
The most unlikely person steps up and stands up for him and suddenly he isn't so alone anymore. Sunny has problems of her own with her father being the town drunk so she knows what it's like to have people talk behind your back. She steps up and defends Judd just when he needs it. This story really was well written and kept me turning the page to see what would happen next. It really showed how cruel teenagers can be and how you really do not know your true friends till you are at your lowest point.
Looking forward to more from this Author.
The most unlikely person steps up and stands up for him and suddenly he isn't so alone anymore. Sunny has problems of her own with her father being the town drunk so she knows what it's like to have people talk behind your back. She steps up and defends Judd just when he needs it. This story really was well written and kept me turning the page to see what would happen next. It really showed how cruel teenagers can be and how you really do not know your true friends till you are at your lowest point.
Looking forward to more from this Author.
April 9, 2017
I received a copy of Maybe Never by Sadie Allen from InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review. This has in no way influenced my thoughts and feelings about the book.
I had never heard about, but when I read the synopsis and I was intrigued. I am always interested in when two very different people fall for each other. And that is what I was expecting from Maybe Never and I got it – sorta.
Maybe Never follows protagonist Sunny Blackfox and Judd Jackson, two very different people in a small town, and both outcasts in different ways. Sunny is counting down the days till she can get out her town. She feels alone and all she wants to do is get away. Judd has had his life turned on his head and he doesn’t know what to make of it. He has lost all his friends and the town has turned their back on his family. He feels alone and all he wants to do is leave.
When Sunny and Judd come are trust together for a school assessment things start to change and before they know, they are leaning on each other and maybe they don’t feel so alone anymore – but hey, life is never that easy.
Sunny was an interesting protagonist. Like most contemporary YA novel she is the outcast. But, on this occasion I really enjoy it. I loved Sunny’s determination and her fight to get out of this town. She works so hard and has to deal with so much, and yet she is so strong.
Judd was harder to like. At times he was quite judgemental and in a sense, I understand why in a way – but it could hurt some people. Judd has gone from top shot – to someone who those people pick on. He has lost everything and it’s hurting him, even if he doesn’t admit it. He has no friends, so when he starts talking to Sunny there is this instant connection.
The romance in Maybe Never was a hit and miss for me. I really enjoyed parts of it and then there were things that just didn’t sit right. Firstly, I didn’t like how fast it moved or how fast it seemed to move. In saying that, I loved how natural the romance is, how they fall so easily with each other.
There wasn't many good friendships in Maybe Never and that did make me dislike the book more. I like good friendships and it just lacked. I wanted something that Sunny and Judd can hold onto, but it fell through. Although they find friendship with one another – it just wasn’t the same for me.
I also didn’t like that there was too much drama. I felt that I was going in circles. Something would be resolved and then bang, another thing comes their way. It was a never ending cycle and I just wanted to take a breath for a while.
One thing that made me really enjoy the book was the diversity. Firstly, just let me say, I don’t know how well it was done, so I could be totally wrong here. Maybe Never features a Native American protagonist. I don’t know if Sunny is half Native American or not, it wasn’t exactly clear on that account. But her father is Native American and I really enjoy that aspect of the book. Judd’s father is also transgender. There is a lot of hate towards his family because of this and it’s heartbreaking. The only thing that did tick me off was that we didn’t know if the father was transgender or just dressed as drag. It was kind of hinted at times. But, didn’t really get explained until the end.
Overall, Maybe Never is an okay read. It’s not going to be forever and I won’t recommend for everyone. But, I will say that if you enjoy contemporary and like to see something a little different then this book is for you. Maybe Never explores the notion of first love, friendship, family and finding yourself. It’s about trying to fit in where you don’t really belong and then learning to stand on your own. It’s an adventure with a cute romance and hard cutting issues.
I had never heard about, but when I read the synopsis and I was intrigued. I am always interested in when two very different people fall for each other. And that is what I was expecting from Maybe Never and I got it – sorta.
Maybe Never follows protagonist Sunny Blackfox and Judd Jackson, two very different people in a small town, and both outcasts in different ways. Sunny is counting down the days till she can get out her town. She feels alone and all she wants to do is get away. Judd has had his life turned on his head and he doesn’t know what to make of it. He has lost all his friends and the town has turned their back on his family. He feels alone and all he wants to do is leave.
When Sunny and Judd come are trust together for a school assessment things start to change and before they know, they are leaning on each other and maybe they don’t feel so alone anymore – but hey, life is never that easy.
Sunny was an interesting protagonist. Like most contemporary YA novel she is the outcast. But, on this occasion I really enjoy it. I loved Sunny’s determination and her fight to get out of this town. She works so hard and has to deal with so much, and yet she is so strong.
Judd was harder to like. At times he was quite judgemental and in a sense, I understand why in a way – but it could hurt some people. Judd has gone from top shot – to someone who those people pick on. He has lost everything and it’s hurting him, even if he doesn’t admit it. He has no friends, so when he starts talking to Sunny there is this instant connection.
The romance in Maybe Never was a hit and miss for me. I really enjoyed parts of it and then there were things that just didn’t sit right. Firstly, I didn’t like how fast it moved or how fast it seemed to move. In saying that, I loved how natural the romance is, how they fall so easily with each other.
There wasn't many good friendships in Maybe Never and that did make me dislike the book more. I like good friendships and it just lacked. I wanted something that Sunny and Judd can hold onto, but it fell through. Although they find friendship with one another – it just wasn’t the same for me.
I also didn’t like that there was too much drama. I felt that I was going in circles. Something would be resolved and then bang, another thing comes their way. It was a never ending cycle and I just wanted to take a breath for a while.
One thing that made me really enjoy the book was the diversity. Firstly, just let me say, I don’t know how well it was done, so I could be totally wrong here. Maybe Never features a Native American protagonist. I don’t know if Sunny is half Native American or not, it wasn’t exactly clear on that account. But her father is Native American and I really enjoy that aspect of the book. Judd’s father is also transgender. There is a lot of hate towards his family because of this and it’s heartbreaking. The only thing that did tick me off was that we didn’t know if the father was transgender or just dressed as drag. It was kind of hinted at times. But, didn’t really get explained until the end.
Overall, Maybe Never is an okay read. It’s not going to be forever and I won’t recommend for everyone. But, I will say that if you enjoy contemporary and like to see something a little different then this book is for you. Maybe Never explores the notion of first love, friendship, family and finding yourself. It’s about trying to fit in where you don’t really belong and then learning to stand on your own. It’s an adventure with a cute romance and hard cutting issues.
March 9, 2018
This was an unusual heavy YA romance for me.
Maybe Never by Sadie Allen deals with subjects that were not so often on my radar so far. At first I thought it would be one of those “usual” sweet YA romances with a touch of angst.
And it really starts of like exactly one of those, except the Prologue already should have been a warning of what was to come. The author dives pretty fast into the lives of our leading characters and while the surface is quite clear from the beginning.
It’s the good writing style of the author that lets the reader have the details only piece by piece until the picture is completed.
The puzzle will take the reader a lot longer to complete because while I admit the bad “guys” in this story were no mystery to me – but I honestly don’t think they were supposed to be.
It was more what they were willing to do and their reasons for it that left the reader guessing for a long time. I think this was a story about the hard way to grow up.
Some stuff left me shuddering just thinking about it other stuff seemed farfetched but the mix of it was what made the story good and kept my attention.
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July 26, 2017
When I read the blurb for this book I though it would be a boy meets girl, typical YA story, boy was I wrong! I was sucked straight into the story from the first page, I couldn't put it down, it follows Judd and Sunny. Judd was your typical popular jock, till his world is rocked and he's made an outcast. Sunny is a quiet girl, but with a huge heart and a spark inside her that no matter what, could not be put out. Sunny really was an old soul in a young body, every one should have a friend like her. I loved the slow burn between them, there's an instant attraction, but they are allies first and foremost. This book is so full of feels, even though they are having a hard time there's still some swoon worthy moments. There's a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming, but karma always gets her own back! This story will truly touch your heart and keep you thinking about it long after you finish, it's one of my favourite books so far this year.
*** reviewed for sweet & spicy reads-ARC provided for honest review ***
*** reviewed for sweet & spicy reads-ARC provided for honest review ***
February 25, 2017
blown away by this debut
When I picked this book up I genuinely had no idea what I would be getting. I thought, well I'll give it a chance. Why not. I Cannot Believe how captivating this story was! I am blown away by this debut novel. I always expect glaring typos and strange editing with a new author. I prepare myself for it so I can still enjoy reading. There was NONE of that. It was as flawlessly written as it could be. I was involved and intrigued from the very beginning and my attention never lagged. The H/h were interesting and real and I loved them together. I loved how they held each other's hand through their struggles. It was such a good read. Really really looking forward to more from this author!
When I picked this book up I genuinely had no idea what I would be getting. I thought, well I'll give it a chance. Why not. I Cannot Believe how captivating this story was! I am blown away by this debut novel. I always expect glaring typos and strange editing with a new author. I prepare myself for it so I can still enjoy reading. There was NONE of that. It was as flawlessly written as it could be. I was involved and intrigued from the very beginning and my attention never lagged. The H/h were interesting and real and I loved them together. I loved how they held each other's hand through their struggles. It was such a good read. Really really looking forward to more from this author!
March 5, 2017
Maybe Never by Sadie Allen is a stand alone romance novel.
Meet Judd Jackson. He´s at a new class at high school after a major scandal. His father, the football coach comes out as transgender and left his family and Sand Creek.
And there is Sunny Blackfox, a 18 year old in his class who stands up for him and herself.
Both are outcasts, lost souls.
They help each other and have many hurdles to master.
I there a HEA?
I didn´t know what to expect as I started this book. But I loved it. The story of these two people is a hartwrenchingly wonderful read.
5 Stars and Thank you Sadie Allen !!
Meet Judd Jackson. He´s at a new class at high school after a major scandal. His father, the football coach comes out as transgender and left his family and Sand Creek.
And there is Sunny Blackfox, a 18 year old in his class who stands up for him and herself.
Both are outcasts, lost souls.
They help each other and have many hurdles to master.
I there a HEA?
I didn´t know what to expect as I started this book. But I loved it. The story of these two people is a hartwrenchingly wonderful read.
5 Stars and Thank you Sadie Allen !!
March 22, 2017
Such a great read! :) Review to come.
January 10, 2018
I'm thinking 2.5 stars on this... Okay so here's the thing before anyone thinks I hated this book. I did not. I hated the editor. Silly me, I thought this book was going to be released soon, so I let the errors fly, hoping they would be fixed in final editing. But then I realized, Oh shit, this book is already out. The editing of this book is unacceptable for a final product. Crimeny, I could and would have done a better job. I was rewriting in my head through the whole book!
Editing (or lack thereof) aside, I did like the story for what it was. I was interested from the start and I found this book really hard to put down as I was always ready to see what happened next. I thought that the romance was extremely believable and I thought that Sunny and Judd made a great pair. The book started with a Jessica Lange quote (yes, my queen!) and ended with a fantastic epilogue. The cover is what snagged me right away. I LOVE this book cover! I actually read Maybe Never in one day, which I always love.
But now for the bad bits. I'm not even going to talk about how bad the editor was anymore. They're just bad, okay? Fire them. On the actual writing, I feel that Sadie Allen has lots of potential in the YA community, but I think that she needs to write more and find her own style and voice. A lot of times the characters felt like stock material, and through the whole book, I didn't feel any connection with the author. I didn't hear her in her writing. It felt impersonal in a way. There was a nice story under the bad editing, but I feel Allen needed that good editor to help get her thoughts across more clearly. Many times the words were a bit jumbled or overwritten, and had she had some help arranging her thoughts this book could have been much more enjoyable.
Maybe Never focuses on many heavy issues, though I didn't necessarily feel that they were all resolved or faced head-on.
I would be willing to read more by Sadie Allen in the future as I have hopes for her talent and its development. I think that I would recommend this book to friends. Overall I thought it was a very cute and easy to read story.
Editing (or lack thereof) aside, I did like the story for what it was. I was interested from the start and I found this book really hard to put down as I was always ready to see what happened next. I thought that the romance was extremely believable and I thought that Sunny and Judd made a great pair. The book started with a Jessica Lange quote (yes, my queen!) and ended with a fantastic epilogue. The cover is what snagged me right away. I LOVE this book cover! I actually read Maybe Never in one day, which I always love.
But now for the bad bits. I'm not even going to talk about how bad the editor was anymore. They're just bad, okay? Fire them. On the actual writing, I feel that Sadie Allen has lots of potential in the YA community, but I think that she needs to write more and find her own style and voice. A lot of times the characters felt like stock material, and through the whole book, I didn't feel any connection with the author. I didn't hear her in her writing. It felt impersonal in a way. There was a nice story under the bad editing, but I feel Allen needed that good editor to help get her thoughts across more clearly. Many times the words were a bit jumbled or overwritten, and had she had some help arranging her thoughts this book could have been much more enjoyable.
Maybe Never focuses on many heavy issues, though I didn't necessarily feel that they were all resolved or faced head-on.
I would be willing to read more by Sadie Allen in the future as I have hopes for her talent and its development. I think that I would recommend this book to friends. Overall I thought it was a very cute and easy to read story.
April 7, 2017
Maybe Never certainly packs quite the emotional punch.
Judd Jackson is having one heck of a bad time. The former popular kid/school star now faces daily torment and ridicule. His former friends, teammates and ex-girlfriend have not only shunned him, but basically decided to make his life miserable.
I really liked Judd, which I have to admit I wasn't prepared for. I was expecting another moaning ex-jock but he's actually really funny and sweet, if a little clueless at times.
On to Sunny. She's smart, sassy, hilarious and oh-so-strong. I loved her! It's worth noting there some pretty heavy issues covered throughout the story and so I'm putting a violence and bullying trigger warning on this one! I was shocked by some of the terrible things Sunny experiences and was absolutely desperate to for her to escape her misery to find a HEA.
Sadie Allen doesn't shy away from covering difficult subjects but she does so with care and sensitivity. The book looks at when bullying goes too far and how narrow-minded some people are. We get to see the injustices of the world through the daily prejudice Sunny and Judd both experience.
I loved the hopeful message and how although they may both experience wobbles at times they never give up on their dreams.
4 Stars in my Sky!
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review!
November 28, 2018
https://celebrityreaders.com/2018/11/...
I received a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
3 stars — Hmmm… OK. So this book frustrated me. There were parts that really sucked me in and kept me enthralled. But there were also parts that made me feel uncomfortable. And we’re going to start with those and get them out of the way.
Now, I might just be super sensitive, I’m not discounting that fact — but I couldn’t help but feel that there was subtle transphobia sprinkled within this book. Now maybe it was unintentional. Or heck, maybe it was indicative of the authors views, not everyone is on board the “yay trans people” train. But including a side story about a father who is likely transgender does not in fact automatically make this book a good candidate for diversity. The problem lies in that the majority of the small town vilifies Judd’s father when he is “outed”. Which, fine, small Texas town and all that (though *grumble grumble* stereotype). But Judd and his mother also made comments that vilified Judd’s father. They were really subtle, but I noticed. And I was disappointed. I’d have to go back to look for specific examples, but it was along the lines of “why’d he have to do that?” and “how could he?” and such…though even that’s not exactly it. Damn, I should have highlighted. Now, at the very end of the book the author tries to tie it in that Judd was mostly just angry with his father for leaving, but it was a bit too late at that point. I considered DNFing over this, but I really wanted to know if Judd was going to come to understand his father and change his beliefs. He doesn’t really. Heck, in the epilogue he’s still talking about his father’s “lifestyle choices.” *sigh* And the thing is that none of this was overt, which makes it more dangerous. So for that reason I would not recommend this to young adults or anyone looking for trans-positivity. It was really used more as a plot device.
The other reason I read this book was for my diversity reading challenge, whose theme this month is “Native American History Month”. And while I was really happy with Sunny’s character, and how she was portrayed in the book (more to come), that sensitive part of me was disappointed that the only other Native American character in the book was her father, who was of course the town drunk…which inadvertently plays into the harmful stereotypes of Native Americans. *sigh* So that was a bit of a bummer.
OK, enough of all that. Other than those factors, I really liked both Sunny and Judd! They were both struggling with unbelievable hardships, and I loved how they made each other stronger. I loved the perspectives that Sunny shared with Judd about rising above the bullying and living your best life as revenge. I thought she was a great mix of strong, independent, but also vulnerable too. She was not immune to the hurt, she just tried her best. And I loved Judd’s protective side with Sunny. I loved that unlike many heroes in similar situations, he actually in general kept a lid on his temper and didn’t resolve everything with fighting. Sometimes Sunny helped, but even before they became friends he tried to ignore his taunters.
And their friendship turned romance was actually really sweet. I loved seeing them both going through crushes, and I believed when their feelings deepened.
As for secondary characters, I LOVED Sally, she was a spitfire! Molly, on the other hand, was baffling…I’m assuming her side story was a set-up for her own book. At least I hope so. The Sheriff was a delightful surprise for me! Judd’s Mom on the other hand went a bit too mean to be redeemable…though, I still accepted her transformation.
And then we get to the devil twins. I will admit I’m not big on over the top drama/angst, and Asher and Ashley were super over the top. They were honestly evil, and I just didn’t feel it was necessary for them to go that far. I was not a fan of anything they added to the story.
So yeah. This one was a mix of ups and downs. The parts I loved, I really loved. But it wasn’t enough to make up for the parts that just didn’t feel right. Top that off with not great editing (and I actually read the copy I bought, not just the ARC, so I know it’s in the final copy), and I just couldn’t go above a 3 star.
I received a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
3 stars — Hmmm… OK. So this book frustrated me. There were parts that really sucked me in and kept me enthralled. But there were also parts that made me feel uncomfortable. And we’re going to start with those and get them out of the way.
Now, I might just be super sensitive, I’m not discounting that fact — but I couldn’t help but feel that there was subtle transphobia sprinkled within this book. Now maybe it was unintentional. Or heck, maybe it was indicative of the authors views, not everyone is on board the “yay trans people” train. But including a side story about a father who is likely transgender does not in fact automatically make this book a good candidate for diversity. The problem lies in that the majority of the small town vilifies Judd’s father when he is “outed”. Which, fine, small Texas town and all that (though *grumble grumble* stereotype). But Judd and his mother also made comments that vilified Judd’s father. They were really subtle, but I noticed. And I was disappointed. I’d have to go back to look for specific examples, but it was along the lines of “why’d he have to do that?” and “how could he?” and such…though even that’s not exactly it. Damn, I should have highlighted. Now, at the very end of the book the author tries to tie it in that Judd was mostly just angry with his father for leaving, but it was a bit too late at that point. I considered DNFing over this, but I really wanted to know if Judd was going to come to understand his father and change his beliefs. He doesn’t really. Heck, in the epilogue he’s still talking about his father’s “lifestyle choices.” *sigh* And the thing is that none of this was overt, which makes it more dangerous. So for that reason I would not recommend this to young adults or anyone looking for trans-positivity. It was really used more as a plot device.
The other reason I read this book was for my diversity reading challenge, whose theme this month is “Native American History Month”. And while I was really happy with Sunny’s character, and how she was portrayed in the book (more to come), that sensitive part of me was disappointed that the only other Native American character in the book was her father, who was of course the town drunk…which inadvertently plays into the harmful stereotypes of Native Americans. *sigh* So that was a bit of a bummer.
OK, enough of all that. Other than those factors, I really liked both Sunny and Judd! They were both struggling with unbelievable hardships, and I loved how they made each other stronger. I loved the perspectives that Sunny shared with Judd about rising above the bullying and living your best life as revenge. I thought she was a great mix of strong, independent, but also vulnerable too. She was not immune to the hurt, she just tried her best. And I loved Judd’s protective side with Sunny. I loved that unlike many heroes in similar situations, he actually in general kept a lid on his temper and didn’t resolve everything with fighting. Sometimes Sunny helped, but even before they became friends he tried to ignore his taunters.
And their friendship turned romance was actually really sweet. I loved seeing them both going through crushes, and I believed when their feelings deepened.
As for secondary characters, I LOVED Sally, she was a spitfire! Molly, on the other hand, was baffling…I’m assuming her side story was a set-up for her own book. At least I hope so. The Sheriff was a delightful surprise for me! Judd’s Mom on the other hand went a bit too mean to be redeemable…though, I still accepted her transformation.
And then we get to the devil twins. I will admit I’m not big on over the top drama/angst, and Asher and Ashley were super over the top. They were honestly evil, and I just didn’t feel it was necessary for them to go that far. I was not a fan of anything they added to the story.
So yeah. This one was a mix of ups and downs. The parts I loved, I really loved. But it wasn’t enough to make up for the parts that just didn’t feel right. Top that off with not great editing (and I actually read the copy I bought, not just the ARC, so I know it’s in the final copy), and I just couldn’t go above a 3 star.
February 14, 2018
Maybe Never by Sadie Allen is a young adult romance, but it was also emotional and was even shocking at times. Judd Jackson was a popular all star athletic, until his father's secret is exposed making him an out cast. His former best friend and his former girlfriend, twins, are the ones who treat him the worst. Sunny Blackfox, a native American girl who keeps to herself is the first one to stand up for Judd. Judd and Sunny become friends and bond over their incompetent parents. Wow is all I can say about this book, especially where Sunny is concerned. I found this book to be a fast read that kept me thinking about it for days. I strongly recommend this book for a unique read
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 17, 2018
Maybe Never is a book with some very heavy adult themes - alcoholism, abuse, bullying, abandonment - that deserves a better, more adult writing style. This is a Netgalley preview so I am hoping that there is still time for editing, but if I saw another "therefore" or "however" to transition I would have given up. And I rarely give up on a book.
The premise was interesting - our hero, Judd Jackson (who comes off as a poor man's Tim Riggins) is ostracized, demoted from hometown football hero to zero after his father's secret comes out. The mean girls and boys come off as cartoonish and stereotypical, but stereotypes do come from somewhere. Judd is pretty good at ignoring their barbs until he hooks up with Sunny, daughter of the town drunk. Once she is in the crosshairs of the town's twin terrors, Judd feels the need to protect her and everything goes south.
I liked the depiction of Sunny - she was tough and a survivor - but it did not make up for the mediocre writing or obvious ending. I very much wanted to love this one but it did not wow me - thank you Netgalley for this preview.
The premise was interesting - our hero, Judd Jackson (who comes off as a poor man's Tim Riggins) is ostracized, demoted from hometown football hero to zero after his father's secret comes out. The mean girls and boys come off as cartoonish and stereotypical, but stereotypes do come from somewhere. Judd is pretty good at ignoring their barbs until he hooks up with Sunny, daughter of the town drunk. Once she is in the crosshairs of the town's twin terrors, Judd feels the need to protect her and everything goes south.
I liked the depiction of Sunny - she was tough and a survivor - but it did not make up for the mediocre writing or obvious ending. I very much wanted to love this one but it did not wow me - thank you Netgalley for this preview.
February 7, 2018
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
First of all, I love how mature this YA book is. Sunny is an incredibly strong heroine and Judd as well. Sadie Allen also doesn't shy away to address sensitive topics such as bullying and alcoholism and she handles them well.
What I didn't like, though, was the way too high amount of drama in this book. Some of it even felt forced to get the plot running and also, it was all so predictable and clichéd.
And what the hell is going on with Molly? I want that answered!
First of all, I love how mature this YA book is. Sunny is an incredibly strong heroine and Judd as well. Sadie Allen also doesn't shy away to address sensitive topics such as bullying and alcoholism and she handles them well.
What I didn't like, though, was the way too high amount of drama in this book. Some of it even felt forced to get the plot running and also, it was all so predictable and clichéd.
And what the hell is going on with Molly? I want that answered!
July 23, 2017
Maybe Never is one of those stories that takes you by surprise. From the story to the characters, I was hooked. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. The story is unique and deals with issues of today. I really loved Sunny! I was so happy to read about a strong female who doesn’t back down and stands up for what she believes in. The fact she is part Native American was bonus for me.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I look forward to reading more!
You’ll be thinking about this book long after you’ve finished. I give this 5 stars.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I look forward to reading more!
You’ll be thinking about this book long after you’ve finished. I give this 5 stars.
March 10, 2017
my first read by this author and I loved it. I loved all the characters in this story not just the main ones I could see myself reading their stories as well. this story was packed full of emotions. I read it from cover to cover all at once it was that good!
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