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Aurora Skye #2
Kissing Games
The course of true love never did run smooth. For a girl who shares her name with a princess (a.k.a Aurora from Sleeping Beauty) Aurora Skye’s life seem fathoms away from a fairytale. Sure, she’s landed Hayden Paris, Potential Prince extraordinaire. And she got her wish -- one first kiss with all the knee-trembling, butterfly-inducing gloriousness she’d hoped for.
But Aurora’s learning that a kiss is just the beginning of a story.
Instead of being the truly transcendent, utterly epic follow up it should be, her second attempt at kissing has literally landed Hayden Paris in the emergency room. If that’s not mortifying enough, the whole school is now referring to her as ‘Lethal Lips’.
Meanwhile it’s all systems go for her best friend Cassie - she and Potential Prince Scott are totally loved up and can’t stop kissing. Jelena (Jefferson High’s answer to Helen of Troy) has moved on from the heinous betrayal by Bad Boy Alex West and has unleashed her plan to rule the world by running for School Captain. Problem is Alex is running too and Jelena’s pulling out all the stops to prevent him from stealing her rightful place as ruler of Jefferson High - including offering Aurora’s Find a Prince/Princess Program as one of her campaign initiatives.
How is Aurora going to prove her program is foolproof and help Jelena win the election when her matchmaking manoeuvres seem to be throwing all the wrong people together - including the NAD and the hippy-dippy Ms Deforest -- and she can’t even convince Hayden to kiss her?
Age: 12+
But Aurora’s learning that a kiss is just the beginning of a story.
Instead of being the truly transcendent, utterly epic follow up it should be, her second attempt at kissing has literally landed Hayden Paris in the emergency room. If that’s not mortifying enough, the whole school is now referring to her as ‘Lethal Lips’.
Meanwhile it’s all systems go for her best friend Cassie - she and Potential Prince Scott are totally loved up and can’t stop kissing. Jelena (Jefferson High’s answer to Helen of Troy) has moved on from the heinous betrayal by Bad Boy Alex West and has unleashed her plan to rule the world by running for School Captain. Problem is Alex is running too and Jelena’s pulling out all the stops to prevent him from stealing her rightful place as ruler of Jefferson High - including offering Aurora’s Find a Prince/Princess Program as one of her campaign initiatives.
How is Aurora going to prove her program is foolproof and help Jelena win the election when her matchmaking manoeuvres seem to be throwing all the wrong people together - including the NAD and the hippy-dippy Ms Deforest -- and she can’t even convince Hayden to kiss her?
Age: 12+
352 pages, Hardcover
First published November 1, 2013
29 people are currently reading
1597 people want to read
About the author
Tara Eglington
4 books158 followersTara Eglington grew up in Byron Bay, Australia, and now lives in Sydney.
Tara is the author of four Young Adult novels: How to Keep a Boy from Kissing You, How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You (titled Kissing Games in the USA), My Best Friend is a Goddess and The Long Distance Playlist. Her books have been published in Australia, New Zealand, and the USA.
Tara’s third YA novel My Best Friend is a Goddess was a CBCA 2017 Book of the Year: Older Readers Notable. It was also the #7 best-selling YA title by an Australian author for the year July 2016-June 2017 in Australia.
Tara’s hobbies when she’s not writing include watching endless cat videos on YouTube, planning pretend holidays to the Maldives, and daydreaming about who would play Hayden Paris in the film adaption of How to Keep a Boy from Kissing You.
Tara LOVES to hear from readers, so please say hello via: contact@taraeglington.com, or via the following platforms:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/taraeglington/
Instagram:
http://instagram.com/taraeglington
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/taraeglington
Author website:
https://taraeglington.com/
Tara is the author of four Young Adult novels: How to Keep a Boy from Kissing You, How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You (titled Kissing Games in the USA), My Best Friend is a Goddess and The Long Distance Playlist. Her books have been published in Australia, New Zealand, and the USA.
Tara’s third YA novel My Best Friend is a Goddess was a CBCA 2017 Book of the Year: Older Readers Notable. It was also the #7 best-selling YA title by an Australian author for the year July 2016-June 2017 in Australia.
Tara’s hobbies when she’s not writing include watching endless cat videos on YouTube, planning pretend holidays to the Maldives, and daydreaming about who would play Hayden Paris in the film adaption of How to Keep a Boy from Kissing You.
Tara LOVES to hear from readers, so please say hello via: contact@taraeglington.com, or via the following platforms:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/taraeglington/
Instagram:
http://instagram.com/taraeglington
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/taraeglington
Author website:
https://taraeglington.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
December 6, 2013
I received a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway
I loved this book and the series so far!
'How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You' is a fun, light read that still has so much heart. Expanding on some of the key themes that the first novel had to offer, this book is a joy to read and offered further insight into the realm of teenage relationships with friends, parents and of course - love interests.
In this installment of the Aurora Skye series, Aurora and her 'prince' Hayden's relationship hits a few bumps in the road, making the story more realistic. As a saying goes: "Real relationships aren't perfect and perfect relationships aren't real". However, with the support of their friends things do begin to work themselves out. I liked the fact that both of them handled the idea of having a boyfriend/girlfriend quite maturely, which was good to see. Both characters were developed really well in this book, which is probably in some part due to the fact that it is quite a bit longer than the first one: How to Keep a Boy from Kissing You .
There was so much more to the plot than this though, and Tara Eglington made a great choice in adding a lot of other sub-plots as well regarding the Find A Prince/Princess Program (which was introduced in the first book), Aurora's relationships with her friends and parents and Jelena's campaign for school captain. Yes. in some parts I will admit that some things were predictable, and maybe even a bit cheesy. But I don't think this detracted from how good the book was at all. This isn't meant to be a serious novel all the way through, and the fact that some characters couldn't see things the way the reader could demonstrates how being in a relationship can change the way you perceive things - especially when it comes to teenagers. That being said, some of the Hayden/Aurora moments were really cute and reading about the real connection they had was really sweet.
Also, there were a lot of references that teen/YA readers would be able to relate to, and I loved how there were some subtle poetry and Shakespeare (to appeal to my English-nerdyness) thrown in as well. This novel definitely cater's for it's market, and it really appealed to me. There was never a dull or boring moment either, with the pace set at a fast enough pace to keep the reader interested but detailed enough to explore some of the key relationships in enough detail to allow for proper development.
*CONCLUSION*
In conclusion, Tara Eglington has done it again by producing another delightfully entertaining, fun read that is sure to appeal to readers that loved How to Keep a Boy From Kissing You and want to know more about Hayden and Aurora's story, along with many others. After reading this I definitely can't wait to see what will come next!
I loved this book and the series so far!
'How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You' is a fun, light read that still has so much heart. Expanding on some of the key themes that the first novel had to offer, this book is a joy to read and offered further insight into the realm of teenage relationships with friends, parents and of course - love interests.
'Don't look down', Hayden called. 'Look at me. I'm holding my arms out for you. I always will.
In this installment of the Aurora Skye series, Aurora and her 'prince' Hayden's relationship hits a few bumps in the road, making the story more realistic. As a saying goes: "Real relationships aren't perfect and perfect relationships aren't real". However, with the support of their friends things do begin to work themselves out. I liked the fact that both of them handled the idea of having a boyfriend/girlfriend quite maturely, which was good to see. Both characters were developed really well in this book, which is probably in some part due to the fact that it is quite a bit longer than the first one: How to Keep a Boy from Kissing You .
There was so much more to the plot than this though, and Tara Eglington made a great choice in adding a lot of other sub-plots as well regarding the Find A Prince/Princess Program (which was introduced in the first book), Aurora's relationships with her friends and parents and Jelena's campaign for school captain. Yes. in some parts I will admit that some things were predictable, and maybe even a bit cheesy. But I don't think this detracted from how good the book was at all. This isn't meant to be a serious novel all the way through, and the fact that some characters couldn't see things the way the reader could demonstrates how being in a relationship can change the way you perceive things - especially when it comes to teenagers. That being said, some of the Hayden/Aurora moments were really cute and reading about the real connection they had was really sweet.
Also, there were a lot of references that teen/YA readers would be able to relate to, and I loved how there were some subtle poetry and Shakespeare (to appeal to my English-nerdyness) thrown in as well. This novel definitely cater's for it's market, and it really appealed to me. There was never a dull or boring moment either, with the pace set at a fast enough pace to keep the reader interested but detailed enough to explore some of the key relationships in enough detail to allow for proper development.
*CONCLUSION*
In conclusion, Tara Eglington has done it again by producing another delightfully entertaining, fun read that is sure to appeal to readers that loved How to Keep a Boy From Kissing You and want to know more about Hayden and Aurora's story, along with many others. After reading this I definitely can't wait to see what will come next!
'Life is always fragile', Hayden said seriously. 'You never know what might happen. That's why you and I have to promise each other never to take things for granted. We have to seize every moment, show each other just how precious we are.'
June 13, 2018
Rating: 3.5 Stars
I was so excited when I found out Aurora was getting a second book. Her first book was so delightful, and I am always looking for something to make me smile. This book had a little more drama than the previous book, but it still delivered a bunch of fun hijinks and an adorable romance.
• Pro: I still love Aurora. She is in a class with Lara Jean Covey, as she is a sort of throwback and a little old fashioned. I mean this in the best way, because it's nice to see these girls represented out there.
• Pro/Con: I think it was important for Aurora to address some of the proverbial elephants in the room and really come to terms with her abandonment issues, but it was hard for me to see Aurora this way. She was such a lover or love, and her doubt in the institution of love almost made my heart stop.
• Pro: Hayden is still a prince. Yep. Everything I loved about him in the last book was turned up a notch in Kissing Games. He really was a most patient and understanding guy, and he did some of the sweetest and most swoony things too.
• Pro: All the shenanigans are still there. The gang gets into some silly fun situations, and I found myself laughing a whole lot.
• Pro: This book touched upon some actual issues, and I was surprised and delighted by the way Eglington handled Jelena's situation.
• Pro: It was fun getting to spend time with the other characters. I felt like I got to know them a little better in this book, and the banter between them was snappy and always entertaining.
• Con: HOWEVER, I sort of wanted more time with just Aurora and Hayden.
• Pro: The friendship game was strong. Aurora had a great little squad, and it's always wonderful seeing female characters, who are so loyal and supportive of each other.
• Pro: The ending was sweet and adorable and what I would expect for Aurora. It put a big smile on my face.
Overall: Another adventure with Aurora and the gang, which was fun-filled and heartwarming.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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I was so excited when I found out Aurora was getting a second book. Her first book was so delightful, and I am always looking for something to make me smile. This book had a little more drama than the previous book, but it still delivered a bunch of fun hijinks and an adorable romance.
• Pro: I still love Aurora. She is in a class with Lara Jean Covey, as she is a sort of throwback and a little old fashioned. I mean this in the best way, because it's nice to see these girls represented out there.
• Pro/Con: I think it was important for Aurora to address some of the proverbial elephants in the room and really come to terms with her abandonment issues, but it was hard for me to see Aurora this way. She was such a lover or love, and her doubt in the institution of love almost made my heart stop.
• Pro: Hayden is still a prince. Yep. Everything I loved about him in the last book was turned up a notch in Kissing Games. He really was a most patient and understanding guy, and he did some of the sweetest and most swoony things too.
• Pro: All the shenanigans are still there. The gang gets into some silly fun situations, and I found myself laughing a whole lot.
• Pro: This book touched upon some actual issues, and I was surprised and delighted by the way Eglington handled Jelena's situation.
• Pro: It was fun getting to spend time with the other characters. I felt like I got to know them a little better in this book, and the banter between them was snappy and always entertaining.
• Con: HOWEVER, I sort of wanted more time with just Aurora and Hayden.
• Pro: The friendship game was strong. Aurora had a great little squad, and it's always wonderful seeing female characters, who are so loyal and supportive of each other.
• Pro: The ending was sweet and adorable and what I would expect for Aurora. It put a big smile on my face.
Overall: Another adventure with Aurora and the gang, which was fun-filled and heartwarming.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
January 3, 2014
‘How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You’ is an enjoyable, entertaining read and a terrific sequel to How to Keep a Boy from Kissing You!
Aurora Skye is even more witty and quirky than she was in the first novel. Her qualities of loyalty, assertiveness, and compassion are definitely prominent in this novel and clearly shone through Aurora’s character. I feel that she is slightly more mature in a few aspects – handling some things well – yet on the other hand, Aurora is also naïve or vulnerable.
It was interesting to see the way Aurora and Hayden’s relationship played out in ‘How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You’, since the first novel was all about the ‘chase’ before their relationship happens. Truthfully, I didn’t delve into this book expecting the scenes between Aurora and Hayden to be that original or as cute compared to ‘How to Keep a Boy From Kissing You’. Sure, I had hoped the romance would meet my expectations but I did not expect it to. Despite this, some of the things that happened between the two in this novel were definitely surprising and unexpected (not to mention swoon-worthy)! There were certain standout Aurora-and-Hayden moments that I’m sure every reader will love and adore.
Amazingly, Hayden is even more sweet and charming than he was in the first novel! His caring, thoughtful gestures had me flailing around, and I even shed a tear or two. Hayden did develop decently throughout ‘How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You’.
The plot is exciting, revolving around Jelena’s extreme school captain campaign, and the development of Aurora and Hayden’s relationship. There are also other hilarious and engaging minute plots in this novel involving Aurora’s group of friends, her mother, and the NAD. The novel travels at a good pace, however I am a tiny bit disappointed that a good part of the plot centred on Jelena’s campaign because I had hoped for more Aurora-and-Hayden scenes. Nevertheless, if Eglington did release a book solely focused on the beloved couple I still wouldn’t be satisfied!
'How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You' is a refreshing, solid sequel with talented writing from Tara Eglington. Aurora fans, you won’t want to miss this! Aurora is back and more charming than ever! I’d also recommend this novel to any teens that enjoy light, girly contemporary reads.
I am certainly intrigued as to what else Eglington will produce in the future, and she is definitely an author I will be following closely.
A song that describes Aurora and Hayden's relationship is... You & I by One Direction
Aurora Skye is even more witty and quirky than she was in the first novel. Her qualities of loyalty, assertiveness, and compassion are definitely prominent in this novel and clearly shone through Aurora’s character. I feel that she is slightly more mature in a few aspects – handling some things well – yet on the other hand, Aurora is also naïve or vulnerable.
‘I’ll give you every bit of reassurance you need, I promise.’
It was interesting to see the way Aurora and Hayden’s relationship played out in ‘How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You’, since the first novel was all about the ‘chase’ before their relationship happens. Truthfully, I didn’t delve into this book expecting the scenes between Aurora and Hayden to be that original or as cute compared to ‘How to Keep a Boy From Kissing You’. Sure, I had hoped the romance would meet my expectations but I did not expect it to. Despite this, some of the things that happened between the two in this novel were definitely surprising and unexpected (not to mention swoon-worthy)! There were certain standout Aurora-and-Hayden moments that I’m sure every reader will love and adore.
Amazingly, Hayden is even more sweet and charming than he was in the first novel! His caring, thoughtful gestures had me flailing around, and I even shed a tear or two. Hayden did develop decently throughout ‘How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You’.
The plot is exciting, revolving around Jelena’s extreme school captain campaign, and the development of Aurora and Hayden’s relationship. There are also other hilarious and engaging minute plots in this novel involving Aurora’s group of friends, her mother, and the NAD. The novel travels at a good pace, however I am a tiny bit disappointed that a good part of the plot centred on Jelena’s campaign because I had hoped for more Aurora-and-Hayden scenes. Nevertheless, if Eglington did release a book solely focused on the beloved couple I still wouldn’t be satisfied!
'How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You' is a refreshing, solid sequel with talented writing from Tara Eglington. Aurora fans, you won’t want to miss this! Aurora is back and more charming than ever! I’d also recommend this novel to any teens that enjoy light, girly contemporary reads.
I am certainly intrigued as to what else Eglington will produce in the future, and she is definitely an author I will be following closely.
‘Don’t look down,’ Hayden called. ‘Look at me. I’m holding my arms out for you. I always will.’
A song that describes Aurora and Hayden's relationship is... You & I by One Direction
December 19, 2013
When this book (finally!!!) arrived at the bookstore yesterday I was so excited to start reading... I ended up spending pretty much my entire day reading it.
This series is AMAZING.
No, amazing doesn't even begin to cover it.
The first book had me utterly engrossed and laughing my head off at all the delightfully ridiculous Aurora-Hayden squabbles, and loving the sweet, romantic scenes. What I was really impressed with was how Hayden was believably annoying to Aurora, but didn't annoy me. Which practically never happens with any other book I've read.
The novel as a whole was just... exquisite.
And I pretty much fell in love with it and guessed at its potential awesomeness when I first saw it. I was proved right by the time I got to page 6.
I read a lot (and I mean a LOT) and there is only one other book that I have ever found as amazing as How to Keep a Boy from Kissing You (which is Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins, in case you were wondering).
I hate to even slightly criticise How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You, though I admit at first maybe I was slightly disappointed. Probably only because I had super high expectations after the first book. I found that there was too much talking and not enough activity. BUT then it became absolutely incredibly amazing again. I found that the second book was a lot more serious (what with Aurora's abandonment issues) as opposed to the more lighthearted focus on Aurora and Hayden's battles of wit turned love story. The thing that made me love HTKABFKY so much was the abundance of Aurora-Hayden scenes, which were always amusing or romantic, and really engaging. In HTCABTKY the focus was a lot more on Jelena and the matchmakees in the FPP. I found it a lot more emotional than the first book and some of the scenes did inspire teary eyes.
I also loved what Jelena did in the second book. Especially because I originally didn't like her much, but she showed that she did have a good heart and was a genuinely good person.
Also, I adore the titles and the covers.
Anyway... basically, I love this series and have spent a significant chunk of my time squealing and fangirling over it. =D
Please, please, please write another book Tara!!!
This series is AMAZING.
No, amazing doesn't even begin to cover it.
The first book had me utterly engrossed and laughing my head off at all the delightfully ridiculous Aurora-Hayden squabbles, and loving the sweet, romantic scenes. What I was really impressed with was how Hayden was believably annoying to Aurora, but didn't annoy me. Which practically never happens with any other book I've read.
The novel as a whole was just... exquisite.
And I pretty much fell in love with it and guessed at its potential awesomeness when I first saw it. I was proved right by the time I got to page 6.
I read a lot (and I mean a LOT) and there is only one other book that I have ever found as amazing as How to Keep a Boy from Kissing You (which is Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins, in case you were wondering).
I hate to even slightly criticise How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You, though I admit at first maybe I was slightly disappointed. Probably only because I had super high expectations after the first book. I found that there was too much talking and not enough activity. BUT then it became absolutely incredibly amazing again. I found that the second book was a lot more serious (what with Aurora's abandonment issues) as opposed to the more lighthearted focus on Aurora and Hayden's battles of wit turned love story. The thing that made me love HTKABFKY so much was the abundance of Aurora-Hayden scenes, which were always amusing or romantic, and really engaging. In HTCABTKY the focus was a lot more on Jelena and the matchmakees in the FPP. I found it a lot more emotional than the first book and some of the scenes did inspire teary eyes.
I also loved what Jelena did in the second book. Especially because I originally didn't like her much, but she showed that she did have a good heart and was a genuinely good person.
Also, I adore the titles and the covers.
Anyway... basically, I love this series and have spent a significant chunk of my time squealing and fangirling over it. =D
Please, please, please write another book Tara!!!
February 15, 2019
so, i'm not reviewing this book in long paragraph. just make it short because i don't thing this one should be necessary enough. even though it answered my curiosity of Aurora's parents, but it was nothing more. the climax was flat, not too intriguing. but, this book still cute ❤
January 5, 2014
Convince (as I'll be referring to it as), picks up where the first book ends. Aurora and her prince Hayden are just dipping their feet into the pool of dating but everything seems to go wrong! Aurora's attempts to be romantic backfires entirely, with Hayden ending up in the hospital with a split lip and Aurora burning off the ends of her hair. This earns her the nickname of 'Lethal Lips', which doesn't help her reputation in launching her matchmaker program.
Meanwhile, her best friend Jelena is running for the role of school captain and she's using Aurora's Find and Prince/Princess program as her main campaign. While Aurora is stoked to be able to test out her program, things obviously do not go as smoothly as she'd planned.
Through the hiccups and the misadventures, Convince really begins to show the depth within the characters we're reading about. Not only are they more developed, but they're all learning life lessons that the targeted audiences for this book should be aware of, especially familial problems that Aurora goes through. Eglington teaches you about life in an easy to digest way, and I would have loved to have read this book when I was back in high school.
I especially enjoyed the friendships between Aurora and her four best friends. While Jelena and Sara often clashed heads, we know they'd always be there for each other when things got tough. Every one of them would be there for each other, even when Jelena's personality and actions angered them all.
Of course most of the stuff that Jelena did in her captaincy campaign was really far-fetched and would never have worked, we must remember that this is still a fictional story. In saying that though, it was very entertaining reading about the lengths she'd go to in order to win. It was also nice to see first-hand how Aurora intended to use her program, even though I thought it was silly that perfect matches can be generated in a grade of only 200.
Aurora and Hayden's relationship portrayed the fears we all go through when we first enter into a new relationship. Eglington really highlights how the girl's mind works through Aurora, where we tend to jump to conclusions based on silly things that happen. It was nice that she used Cassie and Scott's relationship to highlight the need for clear communication between two people - because your significant other probably won't pick up the hints you drop.
What I loved reading the most was the strained relationship between Lindsay and Tyler. I know that sounds awful, but I think it was a really mature concept to include into a book targeted towards younger highschoolers. Ever since Tyler broke up with Lindsay in the first book, their relationship has been a little uneasy once they got back together. Lindsay has definitely become more clear-headed and has begun to question whether she still wants to be with him. Add in a new guy that seems romantic and attempts to sway her from Tyler, and you have one big girl-problem on your hands. I admired Lindsay a lot for her restraint, and the way she went about trying to solve her feelings without jumping right into something new. I know she almost did, but nothing really happened. Her relationship with Tyler could have completely crumpled, but what she went through happens all the time in high school. So it was a good message to send that you must remain logical when it comes to love, because the person that's trying to steal you away from your partner definitely do not have good intentions. Seriously, when would a person with good intentions attempt to break up someone's relationship?
Overall, I really enjoyed this follow up to the first Aurora Skye book. It was everything the first book was and more. If you're looking for a light read that also touches upon life lessons one should learn, then definitely give this one a go!
- - - -
For this and similar reviews, visit Thoughts By J!
February 26, 2018
I received a ARC in a Goodreads giveaway :D
It's hard enough playing matchmaker for your friends. But how about the pressure when your friend's high school presidency campaign is relying on your abilities as Cupid?
Kissing Games picks up right where the previous book left off, with Aurora and her Prince, Hayden, seemingly in a wonderful relationship. That is, just until a mishap with their second kiss accidentally sends him to the emergency room! Managing her own relationship is proving to be difficult enough, when, on top of that, her friend Jelena announces her platform for running for president is banking on Aurora finding a Prince/Princess for three lucky winners.
Like the first book, the plot of this one felt a little contrived. The fact that the candidates would go to such extreme measures to be president, such as organizing field trips and proposing changes with the school board, seemed a little ridiculous. The entire notion of voting someone president because they could get you a boy/girlfriend felt kind of silly too--with everything going on in high school, are these people really so concerned with their love lives?
If Aurora and her friends felt like complete steryotypes in the last book, they felt much more fleshed out and well rounded as characters in this one, which contributed significantly to my enjoyment of the book! It was especially cool to see how some of the characters were given labels and seen by people as one way, but upon getting to know them better, they revealed to be so different.
This book was far less predictable than the last one as well. There were many things happening that I didn't see coming, and I honestly had no idea how the book was going to end. Ultimately, I was deeply satisfied with the ending, and thought that it was the best part of the book.
This book was also more serious and emotional. It dealt with issues such a bullying in a really good way. It was also clear that many of the characters, especially Aurora, matured a lot. The issue of her mom coming back into her life, but still not really caring, as well as her dad dating her crazy teacher Ms. DeForest were key factors in Aurora's life--they really shaped her--and I was impressed by how she dealt with the crazy things going on.
Finally, this book was equally funny as the first! There were some pretty ridiculous situations where I felt pretty bad for the characters, but couldn't help but laughing as well. On the base level, this book was, for me, a lighthearted, fluffy, fun contemporary!
4 stars
It's hard enough playing matchmaker for your friends. But how about the pressure when your friend's high school presidency campaign is relying on your abilities as Cupid?
Kissing Games picks up right where the previous book left off, with Aurora and her Prince, Hayden, seemingly in a wonderful relationship. That is, just until a mishap with their second kiss accidentally sends him to the emergency room! Managing her own relationship is proving to be difficult enough, when, on top of that, her friend Jelena announces her platform for running for president is banking on Aurora finding a Prince/Princess for three lucky winners.
Like the first book, the plot of this one felt a little contrived. The fact that the candidates would go to such extreme measures to be president, such as organizing field trips and proposing changes with the school board, seemed a little ridiculous. The entire notion of voting someone president because they could get you a boy/girlfriend felt kind of silly too--with everything going on in high school, are these people really so concerned with their love lives?
If Aurora and her friends felt like complete steryotypes in the last book, they felt much more fleshed out and well rounded as characters in this one, which contributed significantly to my enjoyment of the book! It was especially cool to see how some of the characters were given labels and seen by people as one way, but upon getting to know them better, they revealed to be so different.
This book was far less predictable than the last one as well. There were many things happening that I didn't see coming, and I honestly had no idea how the book was going to end. Ultimately, I was deeply satisfied with the ending, and thought that it was the best part of the book.
This book was also more serious and emotional. It dealt with issues such a bullying in a really good way. It was also clear that many of the characters, especially Aurora, matured a lot. The issue of her mom coming back into her life, but still not really caring, as well as her dad dating her crazy teacher Ms. DeForest were key factors in Aurora's life--they really shaped her--and I was impressed by how she dealt with the crazy things going on.
Finally, this book was equally funny as the first! There were some pretty ridiculous situations where I felt pretty bad for the characters, but couldn't help but laughing as well. On the base level, this book was, for me, a lighthearted, fluffy, fun contemporary!
4 stars
Want to read
June 19, 2014I think this young romance story is very lovely. I'm really like the way how the author represent a young life of a sixteen years old girl. The story became real to me as if i wish that Aurora, Hayden and other characters are real as well. I really appreciate the creative writing of Tara and thanks to her that my aspect to view the world differently. The humor was just hilarious and also the dramatic moment of Aurora and Hayden.
I wish you all the best and please continued to release the next brilliant novel. I am looking forward to read your next novel.
I wish you all the best and please continued to release the next brilliant novel. I am looking forward to read your next novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2013
OMG so I love to to keep a boy from kissing you it was absolutely amazing it is like my ultimate feel good book whenever I read it it just makes me happy and I can never put it down even though I know what's going to happen!! I downloaded the sample on iBooks of how to convince a boy to kiss u and loved it the same! I hope It comes out soon I'm a bit confused in my girlfriend magazine it said the 22nd but then iBooks says the 1st of December I dunno but either way I can way and will probably do what I did with the first book buy it on iBooks when it comes out and then go into dymocks and but it again!! I really can't wait it is just such a good series that takes me somewhere else and makes me happy I know this book is awesome without even reading it well I guess Hayden Paris is in it aka babe <3 but yeah I hope there's a 3rd book too!! Can't wait to read it!! :D
June 29, 2018
I always feel accomplished these days whenever I manage to finish a YA book lmao
but ANYWAY
I enjoyed this book more than its predecessor. I really miss Aurora and her friends' shenanigans. Reading about this gang made me nostalgic about high school. There were a lot of fun things happening, and I'm also happy to report that the secondhand embarrassment was less this time around (book 1 nearly killed me). I also love how lovable Aurora and Hayden are as a couple, especially in the end.
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Netgalley.
but ANYWAY
I enjoyed this book more than its predecessor. I really miss Aurora and her friends' shenanigans. Reading about this gang made me nostalgic about high school. There were a lot of fun things happening, and I'm also happy to report that the secondhand embarrassment was less this time around (book 1 nearly killed me). I also love how lovable Aurora and Hayden are as a couple, especially in the end.
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Netgalley.
October 15, 2013
NOVEMBER THE FIRST!!! CAN'T WAIT FOR THAT DAY!!!! EVEN MORE EXCITED THAN FOR MY BIRTHDAY OR CHRISTMAS. HOW TO STOP A BOY FROM KISSING YOU WAS AMAZING!!! I WISH I WAS AURORA! I hope this one is as good as the first one! And OH I WISH I HAD YOU HAYDEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 19, 2013
Get excited, Aurora fans, this one is even more delightful than the first!
March 26, 2018
I loved it! There was so much heart in this book and I choked up numerous times. I also chuckled consistently throughout the entire book. Aurura is one of the most relatable, likeable female characters in YA contemporary fiction I've ever come across. She's strong, yet vulnerable. She's confident yet also insecure. She's loyal and passionate and definitely someone I'd be proud to call my daughter or have as my friend! I look forward to reading more from Tara Eglington.
July 28, 2018
How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You by Tara Eglington is a lighthearted read. It's funny, sweet, and realistic. I loved Aurora's list for finding the perfect guy. Do not settle for anything else than what you are worthy for-according to Aurora. I wished I had met this teenage girl when I was in high school. She's cool, caring, and energetic. Aurora has waited a long time for her first kiss and got it. Her second kiss turned out to be a disaster and from there life got messy for her. The trials, friendship, and relationship stuff was fun to follow. It felt like I knew her for years. Out of all the YA contemporary fiction novels that I have read, this one beats them all. The morals, laugh out loud moments, and heart melting scenes made this a special read. Overall, I recommend to readers everywhere.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
May 26, 2018
This was really cute, a little young for my taste but funny and has great friendships They have a computer program that is supposed to help you identify if the guy you like is a Prince or a dud,lol Aurora has her first kiss and is ready for number 2 but it doesn't go as expected and lands her Prince in the ER. Of course she gets teased and called lethal lips at school, and her friend Cassie suggest she watch videos to learn the proper technique. This is the beginning of a teen girls quest to have her ideal man. I have 2 teenagers who want to read this asap, they will love it I am sure.
May 26, 2018
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Although this is definitely not the kind of thing I usually enjoy- it's far too "girly" for my taste- there were things about it that I liked. I enjoyed the dynamic between Aurora and her friends, and I wish the struggles with her mother had been brought into focus earlier in the book because it was easily my favorite thing about it. I suppose if this was a genre I really enjoyed, I probably would have gotten more out of it, so I wouldn't dismiss it entirely for those who do enjoy romance and a teen movie-like setting.
Although this is definitely not the kind of thing I usually enjoy- it's far too "girly" for my taste- there were things about it that I liked. I enjoyed the dynamic between Aurora and her friends, and I wish the struggles with her mother had been brought into focus earlier in the book because it was easily my favorite thing about it. I suppose if this was a genre I really enjoyed, I probably would have gotten more out of it, so I wouldn't dismiss it entirely for those who do enjoy romance and a teen movie-like setting.
April 25, 2018
Content rating and review
http://sagethoughtsonbooks.blogspot.c...
DNF I just couldn't get into the story. It was too silly and shallow. I just can't see it happening.
http://sagethoughtsonbooks.blogspot.c...
DNF I just couldn't get into the story. It was too silly and shallow. I just can't see it happening.
March 19, 2018
A fun YA romance.
January 1, 2016
Loved this book! While I thought the first was better, How to Convince a Boy to Kiss You was just as cute and adorable as the first, however explored slightly darker themes such as abandonment issues and bullying/harassment.
Aurora was was just as naive and cute as before, and her and Hayden's relationship is just life. I cannot count how many times I cringed throughout the novel at some of the things she did though. Aurora's character development was from start to finish was written very well.
All the couples were so cute (I love Chloe and Jeffrey and Cassie and Scott). And I loved the Find a Prince/Princess Program.
The only thing I didn't like was Avery treated Aurora. She is meant to be there for her as a mother yet just leaves without any consideration. Also how her dad wouldn't stand up for her regarding how Ms Deforest treats her. I know we got a sad backstory from her and a little bonding moment but that doesn't make up for everything.
Overall I loved this book and I wish Tara Eglington would continue writing about Aurora and Hayden and everyone else. Again I recommend these books to anyone and everyone for a feel-good fluffy romance.
Aurora was was just as naive and cute as before, and her and Hayden's relationship is just life. I cannot count how many times I cringed throughout the novel at some of the things she did though. Aurora's character development was from start to finish was written very well.
All the couples were so cute (I love Chloe and Jeffrey and Cassie and Scott). And I loved the Find a Prince/Princess Program.
The only thing I didn't like was Avery treated Aurora. She is meant to be there for her as a mother yet just leaves without any consideration. Also how her dad wouldn't stand up for her regarding how Ms Deforest treats her. I know we got a sad backstory from her and a little bonding moment but that doesn't make up for everything.
Overall I loved this book and I wish Tara Eglington would continue writing about Aurora and Hayden and everyone else. Again I recommend these books to anyone and everyone for a feel-good fluffy romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2013
Utterly charming, just like the first. Very funny, just like the first, and just like the first, some moments of real poignancy in the life of this ever-hopeful Princess.
Aurora has finally found her prince, but as tends to happen in these books, their sailing is not smooth (okay excuse me while I mix some metaphors). I found this part of the book the most frustrating. I just wanted to see some real conversation, some alone happy time for this pair. But I can see that angst and confusion keeps a narrative moving forward.
The Princess Program is the highlight here, and the bumps along the way are very funny but also contain some truths about love and dating. Jelena is a piece of work, but I think she has learned a few lessons by the end (I hope). Hayden continues to be a sweetie, and the NAD's antics are.. eer.. interesting? Notice how much I am not saying about mum. (grr)
Overall though, this is a good fun, summer read.
Aurora has finally found her prince, but as tends to happen in these books, their sailing is not smooth (okay excuse me while I mix some metaphors). I found this part of the book the most frustrating. I just wanted to see some real conversation, some alone happy time for this pair. But I can see that angst and confusion keeps a narrative moving forward.
The Princess Program is the highlight here, and the bumps along the way are very funny but also contain some truths about love and dating. Jelena is a piece of work, but I think she has learned a few lessons by the end (I hope). Hayden continues to be a sweetie, and the NAD's antics are.. eer.. interesting? Notice how much I am not saying about mum. (grr)
Overall though, this is a good fun, summer read.
January 30, 2014
I adored this book! Its so relatable in the way it shows that it is it just romantic relationships that can't cause a broken heart, but that if family and other situations to. Ranging from the first kiss to break ups and showing that people are not always as they appear, this book delves a lot deeper in a relatable sense than it's predecessor. I'm glad I received a copy of this book from Goodreads Firstreads, it was brilliantly constructed I couldn't put it down.
January 5, 2015
I'm not going to lie, I seriously love these books! I'll admit that the Aurora Skye series is totally cringe-inducing and full of moments that I die of embarrassment just by reading about, but they're super cute and silly and perfect for lazy summer days or when you're in the mood for awkward YA romance. :)
December 5, 2013
I loved this book way more than the first one! its great to see aurora becoming bolder and losing some of the innocence she has, I wonder (and hope!) that there will be a third book in the series!
April 8, 2017
*finds out the wait untill publication* OMG! I still have to wait until November! Nooooooo!!!!!!! I need it now, can't wait much longer
December 24, 2013
Such a great book just like the first one, I could never put it down without wanting to read more.
This is full of heart and emotions of a sweet, sad, but happy fairy tale.
This is full of heart and emotions of a sweet, sad, but happy fairy tale.
February 6, 2014
A lovely book for a teen or young at heart, great characters, great sequel to Tara's How to keep a boy from kissing you. Easy to read, lighthearted.Dreamy and romantic.
August 22, 2014
Cute and simple love story of Aurora Skye in high school! Is there going to be more books in the series coming out?
November 13, 2014
This book was amazing! I loved every bit of it, I didn't want it to end! I honestly couldn't stop laughing. Such a good book recommend it to anyone younger than 17 and looking for a good laugh!
July 16, 2020
actual rating: 3.5
July 3, 2018
This book is completely unrealistic, but it’s cute. It’s also full of frustrating miscommunications and assumptions. And I'm just not on board with Aurora's pet project, the Find a Prince/Princess thing.
The supporting characters have more depth than they did in the first book, I think. I know I didn’t particularly like Jelena in the first book; now I despise her. She’s completely selfish and self centered. For the life of me, I cannot figure out why they’re friends with her. She uses them constantly, and with no remorse. Hayden and Aurora are cute together. However, he has a tendency to do or say tiny things that she takes completely the wrong way, analyzing them until she believes he doesn't like her anymore or maybe never did in the first place. It's very, very "high school." Aurora's dad and Ms. DeForest both drive me crazy, as does her mother. Honestly, I found myself thinking that I couldn't wait until she left for college so she could get away from them. (Not that it happens in this book or series, as I assume it's just a duology.)
The campaigning for student body president is completely ridiculous. All the promises Jelena and her main rival, Alex, make are outlandish--matchmaking programs (yes, Jelena uses Aurora without permission), school-sponsored gym memberships, etc. Financially it makes no sense. And the amount of money Jelena spends on campaigning? Holy. Cow. I'd definitely be one of the people voting for the "safe bet" whose name I can't even remember.
How it ends:
Note: Can't recall anything bad. I hate Jelena.
The supporting characters have more depth than they did in the first book, I think. I know I didn’t particularly like Jelena in the first book; now I despise her. She’s completely selfish and self centered. For the life of me, I cannot figure out why they’re friends with her. She uses them constantly, and with no remorse. Hayden and Aurora are cute together. However, he has a tendency to do or say tiny things that she takes completely the wrong way, analyzing them until she believes he doesn't like her anymore or maybe never did in the first place. It's very, very "high school." Aurora's dad and Ms. DeForest both drive me crazy, as does her mother. Honestly, I found myself thinking that I couldn't wait until she left for college so she could get away from them. (Not that it happens in this book or series, as I assume it's just a duology.)
The campaigning for student body president is completely ridiculous. All the promises Jelena and her main rival, Alex, make are outlandish--matchmaking programs (yes, Jelena uses Aurora without permission), school-sponsored gym memberships, etc. Financially it makes no sense. And the amount of money Jelena spends on campaigning? Holy. Cow. I'd definitely be one of the people voting for the "safe bet" whose name I can't even remember.
How it ends:
Note: Can't recall anything bad. I hate Jelena.
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