What do you think?
Stage Kissed
She can balance her extra-curriculars... but can she add him to the mix?
Sixteen-year-old Kate knows how to juggle. From basketball practices to her shifts at Jamba Juice, Kate flies through her days wondering if she got a decent meal. When she lands a role in the school play, adding yet another task to her already full schedule, Kate starts fumbling through her routine, resorting to desperate measures to get the grades expected of her.
Co-worker and classmate Seth isn’t much of a juggler. Crowds and attention? Not his thing. So witnessing Kate’s ability to handle it all leaves Seth in awe. He could never do it. But then one of the leading actors in the play gets tonsillitis days before opening night, and Kate volunteers Seth to replace him. With his eidetic memory and killer dance moves, Seth’s the obvious choice—if it weren’t for his social anxiety.
With Seth’s growing—and unwanted—popularity and Kate spreading herself too thin, they start to wonder if their friendship will even last through the performances. But putting these two into a romance on stage has an effect neither of them could predict.
Sixteen-year-old Kate knows how to juggle. From basketball practices to her shifts at Jamba Juice, Kate flies through her days wondering if she got a decent meal. When she lands a role in the school play, adding yet another task to her already full schedule, Kate starts fumbling through her routine, resorting to desperate measures to get the grades expected of her.
Co-worker and classmate Seth isn’t much of a juggler. Crowds and attention? Not his thing. So witnessing Kate’s ability to handle it all leaves Seth in awe. He could never do it. But then one of the leading actors in the play gets tonsillitis days before opening night, and Kate volunteers Seth to replace him. With his eidetic memory and killer dance moves, Seth’s the obvious choice—if it weren’t for his social anxiety.
With Seth’s growing—and unwanted—popularity and Kate spreading herself too thin, they start to wonder if their friendship will even last through the performances. But putting these two into a romance on stage has an effect neither of them could predict.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
About the author
Cassie Mae
49 books1,145 followersCASSIE MAE is the author of a few hundred—okay, maybe not that many—books, some of which became popular for their quirky titles, characters, and stories. She likes writing about nerds, geeks, the awkward, the fluffy, the short, the shy, the loud, the fun.
Since publishing her bestselling debut, Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend, she’s signed several Romance titles with Random House Loveswept, and founded CookieLynn Publishing Services. She is represented by Sharon Pelletier at Dystel & Goderich Literary Management.
Along with writing, Cassie likes to binge-watch Once Upon a Time and The Flash. She can quote Harry Potter lines quick as a whip. And she likes kissing her hubby, but only if his facial hair is trimmed. She also likes cheesecake to a very obsessive degree.
You can stalk, talk, or send pictures of Luke Bryan to her on her Facebook page.
cassiemaeauthor.com
Facebook.com/cassiemaeauthor
Since publishing her bestselling debut, Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend, she’s signed several Romance titles with Random House Loveswept, and founded CookieLynn Publishing Services. She is represented by Sharon Pelletier at Dystel & Goderich Literary Management.
Along with writing, Cassie likes to binge-watch Once Upon a Time and The Flash. She can quote Harry Potter lines quick as a whip. And she likes kissing her hubby, but only if his facial hair is trimmed. She also likes cheesecake to a very obsessive degree.
You can stalk, talk, or send pictures of Luke Bryan to her on her Facebook page.
cassiemaeauthor.com
Facebook.com/cassiemaeauthor
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March 13, 2015Release day is here!! Can't wait for everyone to meet Kate and Seth :D
May 18, 2017
Oh this book is too wonderful. I have a strict "no-5* review unless the book changed world history" rule but I seriously regretted the rule here. I wish I could give it 4.9999999 stars so you'd know how much I loved it. All of my teen nieces are getting copies so I can gush over each detail.
The chemistry is fantastic. I loved the gender-bending of insecure guy and confident girl. The description of social anxiety is soooo dead-on. And the love story? Well, I haven't swooned over teens in love for years but these two made me a believer. For the most part, the book avoids teen tropes and exaggerated drama. It's a great story about nice kids. Definitely worth youth and adult time.
The chemistry is fantastic. I loved the gender-bending of insecure guy and confident girl. The description of social anxiety is soooo dead-on. And the love story? Well, I haven't swooned over teens in love for years but these two made me a believer. For the most part, the book avoids teen tropes and exaggerated drama. It's a great story about nice kids. Definitely worth youth and adult time.
July 25, 2017
4.5 stars
May 28, 2017
I really loved this book. As soon as I heard that Cassie and Kelley had written a book together I knew I had to do whatever it took to get an Arc. Thank God I didn't have to sell my soul for it, tbh! Hahah
Okay, Stage Kissed is a YA stand alone. And very YA. The two main characters are juniors in high school and there are no hot scenes here. Only cute and tenderness. I would say it is ideal for teenagers because it has a great message. I wish I had read this book when I was in high school.
Our girl in this story is Kate, a very popular girl who is in like any club that could possibly exist: basketball, soccer, National Honor Society, the yearbook, theater and I could go on and on forever. She is a great girl and gets along with everybody but she is also running from one place to another all the freaking time so she is never able to just take a breath.
Then we have Seth, the shy math genius who also turns out to be musically gifted and pretty darn cute. He, as everybody else on the school, knows who Kate is and that she is super nice but he gets to know her so much more when he gets a job in the same place Kate works at. A lovely friendship develops between them while they try to support each other to be the best person they can be.
The story is very light-hearted with lots of funny moments. The thing I really loved about this book is that it's not just about a friendship that turns into love but also about family and responsibility and what is good what is not the best decision you could make. As always I felt like I had learnt a lot of important stuff after finishing one of Cassie's books. It's not the obvious story but the one we don't realize we are reading until the very end the one that blows my mind.
This is also the first thing of Kelley's that I have read and I can honestly say that I am gonna keep reading her stuff. And girls, keep writing together because this. was. AMAZING.
Five huge stars!!!!
Okay, Stage Kissed is a YA stand alone. And very YA. The two main characters are juniors in high school and there are no hot scenes here. Only cute and tenderness. I would say it is ideal for teenagers because it has a great message. I wish I had read this book when I was in high school.
Our girl in this story is Kate, a very popular girl who is in like any club that could possibly exist: basketball, soccer, National Honor Society, the yearbook, theater and I could go on and on forever. She is a great girl and gets along with everybody but she is also running from one place to another all the freaking time so she is never able to just take a breath.
Then we have Seth, the shy math genius who also turns out to be musically gifted and pretty darn cute. He, as everybody else on the school, knows who Kate is and that she is super nice but he gets to know her so much more when he gets a job in the same place Kate works at. A lovely friendship develops between them while they try to support each other to be the best person they can be.
The story is very light-hearted with lots of funny moments. The thing I really loved about this book is that it's not just about a friendship that turns into love but also about family and responsibility and what is good what is not the best decision you could make. As always I felt like I had learnt a lot of important stuff after finishing one of Cassie's books. It's not the obvious story but the one we don't realize we are reading until the very end the one that blows my mind.
This is also the first thing of Kelley's that I have read and I can honestly say that I am gonna keep reading her stuff. And girls, keep writing together because this. was. AMAZING.
Five huge stars!!!!
May 29, 2017
I absolutely adored this sweet teen romance. The story is co-authored by Cassie Mae and Kelley Lynn and it's a winning combination. They have tapped into the mindset of high school life and the challenges that a Junior faces; padding their transcripts for college and being near the end of high school life.
Kate Ryan is an energetic over achiever who discovers first love in her new Jamba Juice coworker/ fellow student Seth McPherson. To be fair, this is a friends to "something more" story ( I just can't use "lovers" with a book set in high school) and we get to watch how this budding friendship changes the lives of our hero and heroine.
Having just come out of some pretty angsty reads, this story lightened me right up. Kate and Seth are so refreshing. Kate is the girl who is a part of every activity that school offers; sports, yearbook, and honor student committees and work on the side. Brainiac Seth has flown under everyone's radar, until Kate discovers his hidden talent for dance and song. How do these two develop any type of a relationship with as busy as they are? When will Kate learn to say no, and when Seth ask for what he wants and so clearly deserves.
The story is told from both of their perspectives so we have insight into what's really going on in their heads and hearts. They are surrounded by their families and various groups of school friends that sometimes add stress and sometimes help them through these new feelings. If you are looking for an endearing love story this is a quick and fun read. I would love to see what happens next for them and so I highly recommend Stage Kiss!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in excahnge for an honest review*
Kate Ryan is an energetic over achiever who discovers first love in her new Jamba Juice coworker/ fellow student Seth McPherson. To be fair, this is a friends to "something more" story ( I just can't use "lovers" with a book set in high school) and we get to watch how this budding friendship changes the lives of our hero and heroine.
Having just come out of some pretty angsty reads, this story lightened me right up. Kate and Seth are so refreshing. Kate is the girl who is a part of every activity that school offers; sports, yearbook, and honor student committees and work on the side. Brainiac Seth has flown under everyone's radar, until Kate discovers his hidden talent for dance and song. How do these two develop any type of a relationship with as busy as they are? When will Kate learn to say no, and when Seth ask for what he wants and so clearly deserves.
The story is told from both of their perspectives so we have insight into what's really going on in their heads and hearts. They are surrounded by their families and various groups of school friends that sometimes add stress and sometimes help them through these new feelings. If you are looking for an endearing love story this is a quick and fun read. I would love to see what happens next for them and so I highly recommend Stage Kiss!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in excahnge for an honest review*
April 13, 2018
Cute!
Content: A few swear words, some innuendo otherwise just a couple kisses
Content: A few swear words, some innuendo otherwise just a couple kisses
May 28, 2017
Another brilliant book by a favourite author. Stage Kissed is a simple story of 2 young teenagers who just seem to be to busy. What i loved is that the male character Seth was not the popular guy in school he was a nerd. Kate was popular with everyone but by the end of the book I felt that Kate was not as popular as we all thought. Sure she was liked by everyone because she was always saying Yes... but only a handful of people were not using her for help with one thing or another.
Kate and Seth were so alike but oh so different at the same time. Seth was quiet, friendly but didn't like to be the focus where as Kate was fun, bubbly and outgoing. Neither really had many friends. Seth preferred it this way but Kate called most of her friends situational so they really were just acquaintances. Then they became more to each other even though both felt that the other didn't want anything.
This is a really light read and would be great for any teenagers you have at home (as well as the mammies :) )
Teenage love is not something I believe in but these two make me want to believe. Cannot wait to get my nieces i to this one.
Kate and Seth were so alike but oh so different at the same time. Seth was quiet, friendly but didn't like to be the focus where as Kate was fun, bubbly and outgoing. Neither really had many friends. Seth preferred it this way but Kate called most of her friends situational so they really were just acquaintances. Then they became more to each other even though both felt that the other didn't want anything.
This is a really light read and would be great for any teenagers you have at home (as well as the mammies :) )
Teenage love is not something I believe in but these two make me want to believe. Cannot wait to get my nieces i to this one.
June 2, 2017
Such a cute book!!! I highly suggest reading it if you like cute young adult stories!!!
I received this book as an Arc and let me just say that I loved reading Seth and Kate's story!!!
It was adorable reading about the guy being the shy, quiet one and the girl being the confident, popular one. Of course, I always adore dual POVS as well!!!
I loved that they were always so busy with everything it reminded me a little bit of when I was in school, although I was never that busy, I still had a lot of things with being in sports and band.
I also related to Kate because I have always had a hard time telling people no, even though there are times when I probably should. =) <3
I received this book as an Arc and let me just say that I loved reading Seth and Kate's story!!!
It was adorable reading about the guy being the shy, quiet one and the girl being the confident, popular one. Of course, I always adore dual POVS as well!!!
I loved that they were always so busy with everything it reminded me a little bit of when I was in school, although I was never that busy, I still had a lot of things with being in sports and band.
I also related to Kate because I have always had a hard time telling people no, even though there are times when I probably should. =) <3
May 27, 2017
I LOVE THOS BOOK!!! it's no surprise that I would love this book Cassie Mae is one of my favorite authors.
You will fly through this book wanting to get the end and then hate yourself it is over. Kate and Seth stole my heart. They are so relatable, funny, and just well written characters. This book is told from both their points of view (which I love). I laughed, I felt my heart flutter, and I cried. Those three things are the makings for a fantastic book and YES it's a fantastic book!!!
Read it you won't be sorry!!
You will fly through this book wanting to get the end and then hate yourself it is over. Kate and Seth stole my heart. They are so relatable, funny, and just well written characters. This book is told from both their points of view (which I love). I laughed, I felt my heart flutter, and I cried. Those three things are the makings for a fantastic book and YES it's a fantastic book!!!
Read it you won't be sorry!!
June 6, 2017
I'm hoping to get back and write a real review later!
This book was everything I look for in a YA novel. A sweet read that had me wanting to stay up all night to finish it!
This book was everything I look for in a YA novel. A sweet read that had me wanting to stay up all night to finish it!
July 17, 2017
Adored this book just like all the rest from this amazing author. Read it now lovely YA story.
July 15, 2017
Just what I needed!
I was looking for a happy story of kisses, awkward moments and high school drama so I looked up if there were any Cassie Mae books I hadn't read yet and this was perfect!!!
I was looking for a happy story of kisses, awkward moments and high school drama so I looked up if there were any Cassie Mae books I hadn't read yet and this was perfect!!!
March 14, 2015
Seth and Peyton are so dang cute! Once you open this book you are swooped right into this hilarious budding romance, that doesn't always go the way they have planned. Its impossible to put the book down, and even more impossible not to fall in love with these two adorable characters.
SOHCAHTOA!!! (You'll understand when you read it.) My favorite part!!!!
SOHCAHTOA!!! (You'll understand when you read it.) My favorite part!!!!
March 13, 2015
I loved this book. Seth is darling, and Kate is such a relatable character. I know so many girls who feel the need to do everything for everyone and forget to take care of themselves. I was just so happy to see these two characters find each other.
May 29, 2017
When a copy of Stage Kissed landed in my inbox, I was like, 'Hmmmm.... what is this?' Honestly, I'm not sure if I signed up to review it or if I was sent a copy because I have reviewed for
Cassie Mae
before in the past. No matter the how's and why's this gem ended up in my lap, I am just so incredibly glad that it did!
Kate and Seth's story is so incredibly cute! Loved every single second of it! I started reading this while I was waiting for a computer simulation to run, and I completely got lost in the novel and forgot to keep an eye on it - I was down the rabbit hole for so long, the university computer logged me off and I lost all my data! *shakes fist at computer* So, yeah. If you decide to start reading this baby (which, I HIGHLY recommend), make sure you are settled in and buckled-up for a beautiful journey of friendship - and maybe a little somethin'-somthin' more.
Kate and Seth, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G!
*Cracks knuckles* Alrighty, lets start in the best place possible: with Seth. He has got to be one of the most adorable characters that I have read in a long, long time! I spent the whole book with a dopey grin on my face thanks to him, and now all the people on the bus and at uni think I'm nutter... worth it. He is a layered individual, with his social anxiety, eidetic memory, what must be a crazy high IQ, and, according to Kate (and I find it hard to disagree with her), good at everything. And what is Mr. Good-at-Everything good at, you ask? Well, there's math; dance, rhythm, musical instruments, robots, measurements, cash flow. Yep, Seth is exceptional at good ol' mathematics. To all those people who whine, 'why do we have to learn this when we'll never use it after high school.' Mathematics is the building blocks of life - trust me, I'm an engineer ;). I mean, sure, his eidetic memory and natural talent help - but math.
A couple of things that bothered me about Seth and all his godly math-ness: how-in-the bloody-hell does he have abs if he doesn't work out - like A LOT?! Do you know how much upkeep that shiz is?! I once achieved the unattainable heights of having abs - for like 2 weeks, then, I swear I'm not exaggerating, I ate a cookie and then, POOF! they were gone. So, yeah. I call BS on that one. Also, what happened to Dylan? He was there in the beginning, then he pulled a disappearing act (much like my abs)... not cool Seth. What happened tobros before hoes dicks before chicks first in first served (? ... it's harder than I thought to come up with something that isn't offensive).
Any-who, Kate. Man, I wish I was on top of shiz the way she is when I was in high school - hell, even now. I think it's inspiring how she has the motivation to do so many things every day of the week. She is definitely living her life to the fullest. She is a such an amazing person - there is no way of denying that. I mean, she makes a questionable choice or two, but then I remember that she's only 16(ish?). She treats everyone with such kindness no matter where they sit in the social hierarchy of high school - the way it should be. Sure, she needs to learn to say no sometimes, but she's always there for people when they need her.
...Annnnd I'm still going. *big breath in*
While there is so, so much to love about Stage Kissed, I think what I loved the most are the amazing underlying themes of the novel. It's okay to say 'no' - don't be a doormat and let people walk all over you. Sadly, this is a thing that Kate needed to learn the hard way - be she gets there, and that's what is important. And an all-time favourite of mine, if you truly care about someone, you make time for them. Always. It doesn't matter what kind of relationship it is; friend, significant other, family member, if they're important to you, you make them a priority.
I laughed. I cried. I went on a beautiful journey. If Stage Kissed isn't on your TBR pile, then it's your - major - loss. This collaboration between Cassie Mae and Kelley Lynn has got to be my favourite thing to happen to me in 2017.
Want more of my reviews? Check out my blog, Rolling with the Moments.
Kate and Seth's story is so incredibly cute! Loved every single second of it! I started reading this while I was waiting for a computer simulation to run, and I completely got lost in the novel and forgot to keep an eye on it - I was down the rabbit hole for so long, the university computer logged me off and I lost all my data! *shakes fist at computer* So, yeah. If you decide to start reading this baby (which, I HIGHLY recommend), make sure you are settled in and buckled-up for a beautiful journey of friendship - and maybe a little somethin'-somthin' more.
Kate and Seth, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G!
*Cracks knuckles* Alrighty, lets start in the best place possible: with Seth. He has got to be one of the most adorable characters that I have read in a long, long time! I spent the whole book with a dopey grin on my face thanks to him, and now all the people on the bus and at uni think I'm nutter... worth it. He is a layered individual, with his social anxiety, eidetic memory, what must be a crazy high IQ, and, according to Kate (and I find it hard to disagree with her), good at everything. And what is Mr. Good-at-Everything good at, you ask? Well, there's math; dance, rhythm, musical instruments, robots, measurements, cash flow. Yep, Seth is exceptional at good ol' mathematics. To all those people who whine, 'why do we have to learn this when we'll never use it after high school.' Mathematics is the building blocks of life - trust me, I'm an engineer ;). I mean, sure, his eidetic memory and natural talent help - but math.
A couple of things that bothered me about Seth and all his godly math-ness: how-in-the bloody-hell does he have abs if he doesn't work out - like A LOT?! Do you know how much upkeep that shiz is?! I once achieved the unattainable heights of having abs - for like 2 weeks, then, I swear I'm not exaggerating, I ate a cookie and then, POOF! they were gone. So, yeah. I call BS on that one. Also, what happened to Dylan? He was there in the beginning, then he pulled a disappearing act (much like my abs)... not cool Seth. What happened to
Any-who, Kate. Man, I wish I was on top of shiz the way she is when I was in high school - hell, even now. I think it's inspiring how she has the motivation to do so many things every day of the week. She is definitely living her life to the fullest. She is a such an amazing person - there is no way of denying that. I mean, she makes a questionable choice or two, but then I remember that she's only 16(ish?). She treats everyone with such kindness no matter where they sit in the social hierarchy of high school - the way it should be. Sure, she needs to learn to say no sometimes, but she's always there for people when they need her.
...Annnnd I'm still going. *big breath in*
While there is so, so much to love about Stage Kissed, I think what I loved the most are the amazing underlying themes of the novel. It's okay to say 'no' - don't be a doormat and let people walk all over you. Sadly, this is a thing that Kate needed to learn the hard way - be she gets there, and that's what is important. And an all-time favourite of mine, if you truly care about someone, you make time for them. Always. It doesn't matter what kind of relationship it is; friend, significant other, family member, if they're important to you, you make them a priority.
I laughed. I cried. I went on a beautiful journey. If Stage Kissed isn't on your TBR pile, then it's your - major - loss. This collaboration between Cassie Mae and Kelley Lynn has got to be my favourite thing to happen to me in 2017.
Want more of my reviews? Check out my blog, Rolling with the Moments.
May 31, 2017
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4 stars -- Technically I did receive an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review/opinion, but yet again I was behind so I only read half of the ARC and then switched over to my preordered copy when it showed up on my Kindle.
You guys, this book was just all sorts of young adult goodness. It contained two very *real* characters dealing with teen problems that really do NOT get addressed that much in young adult books -- how to deal with being so busy!!! Honestly, I don't know how Seth and Kate did it. I still don't, even after finishing the book. But I guess that's the point, they *didn't* deal with it that well. But seriously folks, when was the last time you read a book that dealt with a seriously relevant and not over the top topic? I LOVE it! It was so frustrating to read about too, b/c you just want to shout "SAY NO!" but at the same time both authors made me believe in how hard it was for both Seth and Kate (mostly Kate).
One of the other aspects that I adored about this book is that both main characters were extremely likable but very different. Kate fascinated me. She was uber popular because she was super nice and friendly to EVERYONE, but at the same time she avoided deep friendships. And in some ways, her "niceness" became a bit of her downfall. Honestly it's been a long time since I've adored a character while simultaneously being ridiculously frustrated with the same character. She made me want to bang my head on a wall, but I could also honestly see how things in her life spiraled so out of control. My heart broke for her every time her life got overwhelming and she couldn't see a way out. I have no doubt that there are many teenagers who can relate (heck many adults can relate). And while I hated that she made some of the choices that she did, I kind of got it. A part of me wanted her to learn and grow faster than she was. I missed some of that internal enlightenment I think. I got some of it, but I wanted a bit more from her. But she made me cry TWO SEPARATE TIMES in this book, she made me feel just so much.
And then there's sweet Seth. How can I not love a shorter, shy cutie?? I mean, seriously. Seth was such an interesting counterpart to Kate, and yet I could see what drew them to each other. And again, he was such a great guy!! Not without his own flaws, though he frustrated me a lot less than Kate. Honestly, the book felt a little less balanced b/c he didn't seem to have quite the same struggles. I know he had the social anxiety and shyness to overcome, but I felt like his development got a bit lost in favour of the struggles Kate was going through. So again, I wanted just a bit more depth from him. But despite that, I still loved him. I loved how he took care of Shelby and helped out his family, and how completely oblivious he was to his own attractiveness (both physical and personality-wise). I loved how he cared for Kate and really paid attention to her and noticed her struggling and tried to be there for her, pushing past her natural barriers. And it was awesome to see him embrace the role of Will!! And OMG his kiss made me swoon!!
So yeah, this book is great to put a smile on your face. I think I wasn't quite in the mood for a YA book right now, b/c you kind of have to be in the right frame of mind to read about teenagers being typical teenagers. But it made me smile giddily, giggle, and of course cry big tears, so it was definitely a success. :)
4 stars -- Technically I did receive an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review/opinion, but yet again I was behind so I only read half of the ARC and then switched over to my preordered copy when it showed up on my Kindle.
You guys, this book was just all sorts of young adult goodness. It contained two very *real* characters dealing with teen problems that really do NOT get addressed that much in young adult books -- how to deal with being so busy!!! Honestly, I don't know how Seth and Kate did it. I still don't, even after finishing the book. But I guess that's the point, they *didn't* deal with it that well. But seriously folks, when was the last time you read a book that dealt with a seriously relevant and not over the top topic? I LOVE it! It was so frustrating to read about too, b/c you just want to shout "SAY NO!" but at the same time both authors made me believe in how hard it was for both Seth and Kate (mostly Kate).
One of the other aspects that I adored about this book is that both main characters were extremely likable but very different. Kate fascinated me. She was uber popular because she was super nice and friendly to EVERYONE, but at the same time she avoided deep friendships. And in some ways, her "niceness" became a bit of her downfall. Honestly it's been a long time since I've adored a character while simultaneously being ridiculously frustrated with the same character. She made me want to bang my head on a wall, but I could also honestly see how things in her life spiraled so out of control. My heart broke for her every time her life got overwhelming and she couldn't see a way out. I have no doubt that there are many teenagers who can relate (heck many adults can relate). And while I hated that she made some of the choices that she did, I kind of got it. A part of me wanted her to learn and grow faster than she was. I missed some of that internal enlightenment I think. I got some of it, but I wanted a bit more from her. But she made me cry TWO SEPARATE TIMES in this book, she made me feel just so much.
And then there's sweet Seth. How can I not love a shorter, shy cutie?? I mean, seriously. Seth was such an interesting counterpart to Kate, and yet I could see what drew them to each other. And again, he was such a great guy!! Not without his own flaws, though he frustrated me a lot less than Kate. Honestly, the book felt a little less balanced b/c he didn't seem to have quite the same struggles. I know he had the social anxiety and shyness to overcome, but I felt like his development got a bit lost in favour of the struggles Kate was going through. So again, I wanted just a bit more depth from him. But despite that, I still loved him. I loved how he took care of Shelby and helped out his family, and how completely oblivious he was to his own attractiveness (both physical and personality-wise). I loved how he cared for Kate and really paid attention to her and noticed her struggling and tried to be there for her, pushing past her natural barriers. And it was awesome to see him embrace the role of Will!! And OMG his kiss made me swoon!!
So yeah, this book is great to put a smile on your face. I think I wasn't quite in the mood for a YA book right now, b/c you kind of have to be in the right frame of mind to read about teenagers being typical teenagers. But it made me smile giddily, giggle, and of course cry big tears, so it was definitely a success. :)
May 30, 2017
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion
Final rating: 3.5 stars
I first started reading this book without actually knowing what it was about. I had seen a post by Cassie Mae announcing she would be sending ARCs to the people who signed up for one and since I had read books by her before, I thought I might as well give it a shot.
To be fair, this is only my 2nd time writing a review and the 1st time I wrote one was because I seriously disliked the book I had read. Fortunately, this was not the case.
It was an okay book. The relationship between the main characters is pretty cute. I liked the fact that the old cliche of nerdy girl likes popular jock guy was switched up and we got a shy, reserved guy crushing on the sporty girl. In a sense, I got what I would expect from a Cassie Mae book, a light, fun read (I finished it in a day, maybe 6 hours?). It didn't delve into serious topics but rather focused on the lives of two very busy high schoolers and how they grow closer and closer to each other despite having little to no time for themselves.
There's really not much to say about this book but that it was cute. Would I recommend it? Sure, if what you're looking for is something ve~ry light and that doesn't require a whole lot of attention. Though, Also, I kind of felt like I needed a little more towards the end, maybe a page? It's not that the end was rushed but I was surprised when the book just ended like that.
There's one more thing I'd like to mention, I usually struggle to remember names, but in this case, the names came to mind very easily, though I wouldn't say the characters are memorable, and for that, I give Cassie Mae and Kelley Lynn serious props.
PS: I would have minded if the character were a little older though, but that's maybe because I'm 23 and my high school years have long gone... Maybe had the story taken place at a university, the story would've had a different depth, but that's just my personal taste.
I'd also like to thank Cassie Mae for sending me this ARC, I really enjoyed the book and considering I hadn't picked up one in a few months, I was happy this was the one I chose to read.
Final rating: 3.5 stars
I first started reading this book without actually knowing what it was about. I had seen a post by Cassie Mae announcing she would be sending ARCs to the people who signed up for one and since I had read books by her before, I thought I might as well give it a shot.
It was an okay book. The relationship between the main characters is pretty cute. I liked the fact that the old cliche of nerdy girl likes popular jock guy was switched up and we got a shy, reserved guy crushing on the sporty girl. In a sense, I got what I would expect from a Cassie Mae book, a light, fun read (I finished it in a day, maybe 6 hours?). It didn't delve into serious topics but rather focused on the lives of two very busy high schoolers and how they grow closer and closer to each other despite having little to no time for themselves.
There's really not much to say about this book but that it was cute. Would I recommend it? Sure, if what you're looking for is something ve~ry light and that doesn't require a whole lot of attention. Though, Also, I kind of felt like I needed a little more towards the end, maybe a page? It's not that the end was rushed but I was surprised when the book just ended like that.
There's one more thing I'd like to mention, I usually struggle to remember names, but in this case, the names came to mind very easily, though I wouldn't say the characters are memorable, and for that, I give Cassie Mae and Kelley Lynn serious props.
PS: I would have minded if the character were a little older though, but that's maybe because I'm 23 and my high school years have long gone... Maybe had the story taken place at a university, the story would've had a different depth, but that's just my personal taste.
I'd also like to thank Cassie Mae for sending me this ARC, I really enjoyed the book and considering I hadn't picked up one in a few months, I was happy this was the one I chose to read.
July 9, 2026
I bought this book looking for a light, fun, and cute read, which is exactly what I got! In this novel coauthored by Kassie Mae and Kelley Lynn, I fell in love with the two main characters. Kate Ryan: SUPER popular, can't say no, even busier than she is popular, nice, athletic, liked by everyone. Seth: quiet, shy, admirable, photographic memory (though I wish this had been expanded on).
Pros:
-Adorable story. Seriously, great for that "tween" genre
-Great characters! I loved getting to know all of the characters and appreciated having the families of characters as well. Somewhat reminiscent of Jenny Han.
-Funny! While it wasn't a novel that had me bursting at the seams, it had its moments especially with some more sarcastic and humorous dialogue
-Relatable. Who couldn't relate to an overwhelming amount of work in high school?
Cons:
-Sweat. I understand that teenagers sweat, but it doesn't need to be mentioned in every chapter. There are other ways to express that a character's nervous
-The whole "I like him-wait, no I don't, we're just friends-I really like him-but it couldn't be, we're JUST friends" thing. This went on for most of the novel and while I think it can be useful in some cases, it got to the point where it was slightly overdone. Especially when the character claims to be oblivious to his/her feelings to another character then thinks something such as "I hope she doesn't have a crush on him too," and those thoughts curious as to why they would be so nervous and heat up when the characters interact.
-Plot. I don't really have high expectations for plots in these types of novels, but for the most part, the climax of the story was hinging on them revealing feelings or figuring out their busy schedules. I would have liked to see a little more plot building because I feel like the potential was there.
All in all, this was an enjoyable read that I had a great time with! I would definitely recommend this to someone looking for something quick and fun.
Pros:
-Adorable story. Seriously, great for that "tween" genre
-Great characters! I loved getting to know all of the characters and appreciated having the families of characters as well. Somewhat reminiscent of Jenny Han.
-Funny! While it wasn't a novel that had me bursting at the seams, it had its moments especially with some more sarcastic and humorous dialogue
-Relatable. Who couldn't relate to an overwhelming amount of work in high school?
Cons:
-Sweat. I understand that teenagers sweat, but it doesn't need to be mentioned in every chapter. There are other ways to express that a character's nervous
-The whole "I like him-wait, no I don't, we're just friends-I really like him-but it couldn't be, we're JUST friends" thing. This went on for most of the novel and while I think it can be useful in some cases, it got to the point where it was slightly overdone. Especially when the character claims to be oblivious to his/her feelings to another character then thinks something such as "I hope she doesn't have a crush on him too," and those thoughts curious as to why they would be so nervous and heat up when the characters interact.
-Plot. I don't really have high expectations for plots in these types of novels, but for the most part, the climax of the story was hinging on them revealing feelings or figuring out their busy schedules. I would have liked to see a little more plot building because I feel like the potential was there.
All in all, this was an enjoyable read that I had a great time with! I would definitely recommend this to someone looking for something quick and fun.
June 6, 2017
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4.5 stars
This book was another hit. It seemed a bit more fast paced than what I usually expect from CM but I dug that. Or maybe I just thought that because these teenagers were SO FRICKING BUSY!
I especially liked how the kiss wasn’t the end of the story but a starting point. The beginning of a new adventure.
I felt sooo bad for these kids though. Like really really bad. Their lives were not their own. It made me stressed just reading about it because I felt like I was reading about my own life. Not enough hours in the day, shorting one event/sport/situation to catch up on another. Ugh, I felt Kate’s frustration about not being able to put her one hundred into everything but I think in reality, Seth was more like me IRL. I don’t go out much so I’m able to keep up on most of my hobbies without as much stress as Kate has.
This book was on point for teens though. I could easily see this happening to my little sisters during their high school lives. Even now I feel bad that my daughter has Job’s Daughters and Tennis during the summer. And its only once a week for her!
I loved how Seth seemed to become more outgoing as he got more involved with other school events. And the mini-relationship! Omg that was hilarious and so something that would happen in high school!
I gotta admit, at first I didn’t really think Kate and Seth had much in common except that they seemed to be in close proximity more often than not. That is bound to make people friendly. But as the story progressed, you could see that it was about more than that. They pushed each other to be better and were there when things didn’t go well.
A lovely YA romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. Go get this one!
4.5 stars
This book was another hit. It seemed a bit more fast paced than what I usually expect from CM but I dug that. Or maybe I just thought that because these teenagers were SO FRICKING BUSY!
I especially liked how the kiss wasn’t the end of the story but a starting point. The beginning of a new adventure.
I felt sooo bad for these kids though. Like really really bad. Their lives were not their own. It made me stressed just reading about it because I felt like I was reading about my own life. Not enough hours in the day, shorting one event/sport/situation to catch up on another. Ugh, I felt Kate’s frustration about not being able to put her one hundred into everything but I think in reality, Seth was more like me IRL. I don’t go out much so I’m able to keep up on most of my hobbies without as much stress as Kate has.
This book was on point for teens though. I could easily see this happening to my little sisters during their high school lives. Even now I feel bad that my daughter has Job’s Daughters and Tennis during the summer. And its only once a week for her!
I loved how Seth seemed to become more outgoing as he got more involved with other school events. And the mini-relationship! Omg that was hilarious and so something that would happen in high school!
I gotta admit, at first I didn’t really think Kate and Seth had much in common except that they seemed to be in close proximity more often than not. That is bound to make people friendly. But as the story progressed, you could see that it was about more than that. They pushed each other to be better and were there when things didn’t go well.
A lovely YA romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. Go get this one!
May 28, 2017
Kate is a star in basketball, soccer, theater, yearbook, and so much more. Seth is very smart, is involved with MESA, AV for theater, tutoring, and more. Neither of them seem to have a lot of free time. They are paired together at work and they both realize how nice it is to have a friend and not just a friend of convenience, who wants something. When Kate's kiss partner in the school musical is out, she volunteers Seth for the part. There's only one problem. He's never kissed a girl, let alone in front of a huge audience of people. It might just take Kate to bring him out of his shell and it might take Seth for her to realize that there's more to life than trying to be overwhelmingly accomplished.
I LOVED the reverse of Kate being the popular girl and Seth being incredibly shy and having some social anxiety. It was nice to read the opposite. Kate and Seth are such relatable characters! They have their flaws, but you love them for their flaws. I think a lot of people can identify with trying to do too much and feeling stretched. I loved getting to read each of their perspectives in the book. It switched back and forth so easily. I admit I've never seen the musical "Oklahoma", but I will have to now! Overall, it's a clean romance and very sweet!
I LOVED the reverse of Kate being the popular girl and Seth being incredibly shy and having some social anxiety. It was nice to read the opposite. Kate and Seth are such relatable characters! They have their flaws, but you love them for their flaws. I think a lot of people can identify with trying to do too much and feeling stretched. I loved getting to read each of their perspectives in the book. It switched back and forth so easily. I admit I've never seen the musical "Oklahoma", but I will have to now! Overall, it's a clean romance and very sweet!
June 7, 2017
This was such a charming and wonderful book. TOTALLY worth the sleep I sacrificed for it. I loved Kate's bluntness and fresh voice. I saw the effect of her flaws, but she made realizations and determined to fix them on her own. SO. SPLENDID. She didn't have anyone beating her over the head to make better life choices, which was very in line with her character.
Seth was a fantastic character--he didn't need to change, but got out of his comfort zone nonetheless for Kate. I loved the balance of his highly analytical side with his ability to laugh with Kate and finding ways to teach her.
The relationship built slowly and was beautifully done--the groundwork was laid subtly and well. Kate and Seth complement each other and don't try to change each other--they work with the other person's limitations instead of against them.
This was a really, REALLY well-written story. I read it in one sitting because I loved the characters so much. I highly recommend it.
Gentle Reader Alert: A few PG-level swears.
Seth was a fantastic character--he didn't need to change, but got out of his comfort zone nonetheless for Kate. I loved the balance of his highly analytical side with his ability to laugh with Kate and finding ways to teach her.
The relationship built slowly and was beautifully done--the groundwork was laid subtly and well. Kate and Seth complement each other and don't try to change each other--they work with the other person's limitations instead of against them.
This was a really, REALLY well-written story. I read it in one sitting because I loved the characters so much. I highly recommend it.
Gentle Reader Alert: A few PG-level swears.
January 9, 2018
I'm sure I must've heard about this while it was being written, but I lost track of things during my "writer blogger hiatus". I'm glad I stumbled upon the book on Amazon and bought a copy to read, though! It was a really sweet and clean read (which was fine with me even though I am a big fan of non-clean reads too :P ). Sometimes I got a little concerned that it was going to get a little too 'churchy' for my liking, but thankfully we avoided that particular pitfall and I was able to enjoy the book very much.
Both Seth and Kate were exhausting to me, in that they were soooo busy and loved being so. Kate in particular exhausted me by not being able to say no to anything, ever. I was glad that she eventually started to be a bit more realistic in how much she could fit into her schedule!
The romance aspect was really sweet, and I loved how that resolved itself. All in all I very much enjoyed this book and will no doubt revisit it sometime.
Both Seth and Kate were exhausting to me, in that they were soooo busy and loved being so. Kate in particular exhausted me by not being able to say no to anything, ever. I was glad that she eventually started to be a bit more realistic in how much she could fit into her schedule!
The romance aspect was really sweet, and I loved how that resolved itself. All in all I very much enjoyed this book and will no doubt revisit it sometime.
May 31, 2017
Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! This book, I just love it so much it’s actually insane. It’s one of the cutest love stories I’ve found and now I want to go out and find myself a Seth to marry because he’s just the love of my life.
I completely devoured this book, I read it in about three to four hours and maybe it was because it’s not a very long book, I think it’s about 230 pages long, but I also couldn’t stop reading, Kate and Seth’s story wrapped me up completely and it’s not because I was anxious about what would happen next, I was just so happy with the story I didn’t want to stop.
Overall, I loved this book, it’s light, cute and happy. I didn’t really dislike anything, I liked it all the way. Thank you Kelley Lynn and Cassie Mae for writing such an amazing book.
Read my full review here: http://www.thebookishsisters.com/2017...
I completely devoured this book, I read it in about three to four hours and maybe it was because it’s not a very long book, I think it’s about 230 pages long, but I also couldn’t stop reading, Kate and Seth’s story wrapped me up completely and it’s not because I was anxious about what would happen next, I was just so happy with the story I didn’t want to stop.
Overall, I loved this book, it’s light, cute and happy. I didn’t really dislike anything, I liked it all the way. Thank you Kelley Lynn and Cassie Mae for writing such an amazing book.
Read my full review here: http://www.thebookishsisters.com/2017...
September 30, 2018
When I first started reading this book I really wasn't sure I was going to like it. Which is crazy because it's by one of my favorite authors. The main characters were swapped. It almost felt like Cassie thought up a typical main boy and typical main girl characters then switched the genders. Kate is the basketball/soccer player, popular with everyone and always gets the lead role in school plays. While Seth is the cello playing, shy introvert. I didn't like this at first but as usual once the story really got going I fell in love with the characters. They are so different but so alike at the same time. They become great friends and really begin to balance each other out to make them realize they both need to relax a little. Another 5 star story from Cassie Mae!!
June 6, 2017
I loved this book so much! I've been in a reading rut where I would read books, and although I might enjoy them, they didn't do much for me and the once the story ended and life moved on, that was it. It was over and whether the story continued or not was not a big deal.
However, while reading Stage Kissed, I actually felt things. I was so wrapped up in the writing I couldn't put the book down. The characters are so realistic and relatable that I felt like I was in the story with them- their triumphs and mishaps became my triumphs and mishaps. I actually cried during my reading, and I can't even remember the last time I've connected so much with a book. I highly recommend this!
However, while reading Stage Kissed, I actually felt things. I was so wrapped up in the writing I couldn't put the book down. The characters are so realistic and relatable that I felt like I was in the story with them- their triumphs and mishaps became my triumphs and mishaps. I actually cried during my reading, and I can't even remember the last time I've connected so much with a book. I highly recommend this!
September 5, 2017
It took me forever to read this book... Life just kept getting in the way, and I just did not have time to sit down and loose myself in a book.
But I finally had a bit of time, and that was all it took to make me addicted to this story, and once i started, I coundl't put it down (seems to happen with all of Cassie's books).
This story is cute, complicated and simple (if you read it you'll understand) and so worth it. It made me smile, laugh, and swoon.
Seth and Kate are just so full of cuteness.. And their easygoing friendship is such a breath of fresh air.
I recommend you read this book if you're having a bad day.. This will lift up you're spirit. For sure :)
But I finally had a bit of time, and that was all it took to make me addicted to this story, and once i started, I coundl't put it down (seems to happen with all of Cassie's books).
This story is cute, complicated and simple (if you read it you'll understand) and so worth it. It made me smile, laugh, and swoon.
Seth and Kate are just so full of cuteness.. And their easygoing friendship is such a breath of fresh air.
I recommend you read this book if you're having a bad day.. This will lift up you're spirit. For sure :)
May 6, 2021
Sweet and cute book. I got a bit frustrated how long it took both of them to figure it out but still a fun journey.
Also funny to note it’s set in IL.
I can’t recall the name of the movement but there are actually people lobbying to change how early schools start. Teens actually require a lot more sleep than they get and their circadian rhythm also changes to a later time of alertness. Driving while drowsy and too many extra curricular activities are a real problem for our children. Please Google Start School Later if this is a concern for you or someone you love.
Also funny to note it’s set in IL.
I can’t recall the name of the movement but there are actually people lobbying to change how early schools start. Teens actually require a lot more sleep than they get and their circadian rhythm also changes to a later time of alertness. Driving while drowsy and too many extra curricular activities are a real problem for our children. Please Google Start School Later if this is a concern for you or someone you love.
May 30, 2017
I received and ARC in exchange of an honest review and honestly I give this awesome book 5 freaking stars cause I loved it.
Seth and Kate are both great characters and the story in amazing!!! Both Kate and Seth can't say no and they are both super busy.
Kate is a popular jock and Seth (i'll say this is definitely Cassie character) is a Nerd, well our type of nerd hot and smart.
They will become friends and maybe they'll fall for each other...
You'll find out just reading it!!!
Seth and Kate are both great characters and the story in amazing!!! Both Kate and Seth can't say no and they are both super busy.
Kate is a popular jock and Seth (i'll say this is definitely Cassie character) is a Nerd, well our type of nerd hot and smart.
They will become friends and maybe they'll fall for each other...
You'll find out just reading it!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2017
I love Cassie Mae so obviously I jumped at a chance to read another book by her. She always writes lovable characters and Seth (or Kate for that matter) follow suit. Im trying to write a review without giving too much away but watching their relationship develop was worth staying up all night and living off of coffee the next day.
May 4, 2018
Really fun read! Seth is completely adorkable, and Kate is a fun heroine. I really liked the love interest role reversal where the girl is popular, and the guy is the awkward and invisible nerd. Both of them are really funny and sweet, though a bit frustrating sometimes in their decisions. A fun, fast-paced story that will draw you in and have you giggling.
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