What do you think?
Rate this book
The 'Ohana Tree
On a small island in Hawaii, twenty-eight-year-old Kai is contemplating his life.
He’s a talented singer-songwriter, stuck playing other people’s music for tourists at the local bar. With his own songs and with that voice, he has the potential to be the next big thing. But as much as he lives and breathes to play music, Kai knows he will never leave the island to pursue his dream.
On an old bus rumbling along a winding road, a girl named Tessa looks out the window. She sees frog-green plants clinging to the side of sheer cliffs, snatches of a bright blue sea. She’s come to Hawaii to reconnect with the only person who really knows her. And to escape. She’s a winged seed on the breeze, never settling long enough to grow and put down roots.
In her second novel, Rebecca Addison tells a soul-stirring story about family loyalty, love and loss, long-held secrets and the chance for new beginnings.
He’s a talented singer-songwriter, stuck playing other people’s music for tourists at the local bar. With his own songs and with that voice, he has the potential to be the next big thing. But as much as he lives and breathes to play music, Kai knows he will never leave the island to pursue his dream.
On an old bus rumbling along a winding road, a girl named Tessa looks out the window. She sees frog-green plants clinging to the side of sheer cliffs, snatches of a bright blue sea. She’s come to Hawaii to reconnect with the only person who really knows her. And to escape. She’s a winged seed on the breeze, never settling long enough to grow and put down roots.
In her second novel, Rebecca Addison tells a soul-stirring story about family loyalty, love and loss, long-held secrets and the chance for new beginnings.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2017
17 people are currently reading
515 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Addison
3 books80 followersRebecca Addison grew up in Wellington, New Zealand in a home where there were books in every room. She spent her childhood reading everything she could find and writing stories in the notebooks she bought with her pocket money. She wrote her first full length chapter book when she was seven, a comedy about a family of alligators, and hasn't stopped since.
In 2010, Rebecca settled in the Blue Mountains, Australia with her husband and two children. After a stint writing content for adult education, she tried her hand at children’s fiction, writing two junior fiction novels, the Jemima Cusbert Series, and one middle-grade novel.
Since then, Addison has self-published two contemporary romance novels, Still Waters (2015) and The 'Ohana Tree (2016). After a couple of years devoted to writing romance, she likes to think she’s found her niche with her latest book, a thriller set in Wellington and Sydney.
www.rebeccaaddison.com
https://www.facebook.com/authorRebecc...
In 2010, Rebecca settled in the Blue Mountains, Australia with her husband and two children. After a stint writing content for adult education, she tried her hand at children’s fiction, writing two junior fiction novels, the Jemima Cusbert Series, and one middle-grade novel.
Since then, Addison has self-published two contemporary romance novels, Still Waters (2015) and The 'Ohana Tree (2016). After a couple of years devoted to writing romance, she likes to think she’s found her niche with her latest book, a thriller set in Wellington and Sydney.
www.rebeccaaddison.com
https://www.facebook.com/authorRebecc...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 16, 2016
3.5 out of 5 stars!
I would like to thank the New Adult Book Club Read It and Review It group and the author Rebecca Addison for sending me a copy of The Ohana Tree for review.
I feel quite conflicted about this one. For starters, I thought that the plotline was interesting and the descriptions of life in Hawaii were brilliant at capturing the portrayal throughout but I felt there was something missing that stopped me from completely enjoying it. At first, the story was difficult to get into, but by the 60% mark, I was hooked and able to read to the finish. The Ohana Tree is the first in a planned series and I am interested in reading the second book once it is released. The main character is Kai, a musician who had his mother leave him at a young age, a father who blamed him for the event and a brother who warms everyone's hearts. He meets a girl Tessa and throughout the novel, he struggles with conflicting feelings of love and compassion but also a fear of doing the right thing.
This story is perfect if you like any stories set in Hawaii or ones about family and friends coming together as one.
I would like to thank the New Adult Book Club Read It and Review It group and the author Rebecca Addison for sending me a copy of The Ohana Tree for review.
I feel quite conflicted about this one. For starters, I thought that the plotline was interesting and the descriptions of life in Hawaii were brilliant at capturing the portrayal throughout but I felt there was something missing that stopped me from completely enjoying it. At first, the story was difficult to get into, but by the 60% mark, I was hooked and able to read to the finish. The Ohana Tree is the first in a planned series and I am interested in reading the second book once it is released. The main character is Kai, a musician who had his mother leave him at a young age, a father who blamed him for the event and a brother who warms everyone's hearts. He meets a girl Tessa and throughout the novel, he struggles with conflicting feelings of love and compassion but also a fear of doing the right thing.
This story is perfect if you like any stories set in Hawaii or ones about family and friends coming together as one.
April 22, 2016
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
‘Ohana is an idea in Hawaiian culture. The word ʻohana means family in the Hawaiian language, but in a much wider sense, to include not only one's closer relatives, but also one's homeland, cousins, in-laws, friends, race, and other neighbors.
After reading and enjoying Rebecca Addison’s marvelous debut novel, Still Waters, I was really anxious for the release of her latest book that begins a new series and offers a very different vibe. It is the quality in the details and descriptions that showcase this author’s distinctive writing style. The setting is beautiful Hawaii where plenty of island customs and traditions are observed and celebrated within this story. Filled with beauty, symbolism, strength, heartache, longing, forgiveness and enduring love, this is a beautiful love story told in its many facets.
This profoundly moving story unfolds slowly and deliberately and is written totally in the male point of view. The single POV was my biggest challenge here because I favor the equality and diversity of both sides of the matter at hand. The characters are such opposites in many ways that having both of their voices heard just seemed like it would be a big plus. Not only are readers getting the story in present tense, but past history is woven throughout as well. Although told only by the lead male Kai, the one-voice point of view still generates a great deal of depth and feelings. I admit that this personal preference may predispose my feelings towards this story a bit.
The rich and multi-layered storyline involves so much more than just a romance. Emotions pour onto the pages and every sound and every feel is brought to life with vivid descriptions that entice and ensnare. Some scenes are intense and hit me strongly enough that tears (both happy and sad) ran down my cheeks. I applaud how easily the author is able to place us right alongside Kai and Tessa as they face tough situations - keeping us cheering them on despite the cards stacked against them. The characters satisfy on every level. In addition to the main characters, the well-developed secondary cast – especially Kai’s father and younger brother, Akamu - feels like they might have their own stories to tell with their own set of problems to navigate, rather than just serve as props placed strategically to help or hinder at a given moment’s notice.
We begin the journey with Kai, the lead male character, who is bound by strong family ties and loyalty. He is a talented musician who dreams of leaving Hawaii to pursue a career away from the land that has been in his family for years. Even with what appears to be a strained relationship with his father, the meaning of “Ohana” runs deep within Kai, and he can’t see any way that would allow him to leave his family that depends on him so much. Anyone who has questioned their path in life will connect with Kai’s struggles. When Kai meets Tessa, he’s immediately captivated by her, but also aware of the risks of falling for her. His brother, Akamu steps in to lend his strong support for the relationship between Kai and Tessa and adds some comical relief, too.
Tessa, the female lead is a free-spirited traveler and the complete opposite of Kai. She, too, is a gifted musician. Both are drawn to one another, but Tessa doesn’t want a relationship for fear of hurting Kai. She doesn’t have the ties of family or home. But Kai won’t give up on her, and they fall into a work-in-progress relationship. Both characters have a bag full of back history that must be dealt with before sailing calm seas into a permanent future together.
So here is where we leave off with this young couple’s not-quite-finished-story that will resume in the next installment. I’ll be anxious to see what comes next for Kai and Tessa in their continuing story.
It is my pleasure to highly recommend this book to readers looking for a refreshing and unique reading experience.
April 3, 2016
I was given a copy of this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The 'Ohana Tree
**part 1 of 3 novels.
First of all I want to shout out to the author. I read an advanced copy of Still Waters as well and her writing is simply inspiring. She writes as though she has been doing this for years. I read authors who are on the best seller lists and they will never achieve such a level of writing. Your voice will go out into the world and inspire and teach many.
As for the book itself.
First the bad stuff.
This book is entirely written in the man's POV. Ok, lame as bad point, but straight out of the gate, this was 100% not my kind of book. I have trouble reading books where male authors write women POV too. It always feels like there is something missing when writers try to do this.
It took awhile for the story line to pop. I read the first 30% in 2 days and the other 70% in hours. I found myself drifting in and out of the book a fair bit. Imagining where storyline could go because you're basically walking into a story and the back story of many parts of the story is dripped in. Staring absent minded into space isn't my smartest look.
But.
To me the good, rolls over the bad and squashes it flat.
Kai and Tessa are very - very well written characters. They are well thought out as is their supporting cast members. Special mention to Akamu, who was very life like.
Although the "details" of the past events of this book are drip fed to us as we read, they are well timed and as the story unfolds, it increases the tempo of the book rhythm significantly. I'm a big believer in book rhythm, pace and this exceeded in that expectation.
I could, smell taste and touch my world in this book. For the book purist, this is the highest form of escapism.
I found myself a fair bit just smiling at this story and at the end there may have been a misty eye as well haha.
'Ohana, all those who are claimed, loved and nourished by a family group.
To Kai this means staying on his island to mind his father and brother. Until he meets the flighty Tessa, who shakes the very foundation of that belief. The past crashes over both of them and implodes their foundations. Can you really have roots and wings?
The 'Ohana Tree
**part 1 of 3 novels.
First of all I want to shout out to the author. I read an advanced copy of Still Waters as well and her writing is simply inspiring. She writes as though she has been doing this for years. I read authors who are on the best seller lists and they will never achieve such a level of writing. Your voice will go out into the world and inspire and teach many.
As for the book itself.
First the bad stuff.
This book is entirely written in the man's POV. Ok, lame as bad point, but straight out of the gate, this was 100% not my kind of book. I have trouble reading books where male authors write women POV too. It always feels like there is something missing when writers try to do this.
It took awhile for the story line to pop. I read the first 30% in 2 days and the other 70% in hours. I found myself drifting in and out of the book a fair bit. Imagining where storyline could go because you're basically walking into a story and the back story of many parts of the story is dripped in. Staring absent minded into space isn't my smartest look.
But.
To me the good, rolls over the bad and squashes it flat.
Kai and Tessa are very - very well written characters. They are well thought out as is their supporting cast members. Special mention to Akamu, who was very life like.
Although the "details" of the past events of this book are drip fed to us as we read, they are well timed and as the story unfolds, it increases the tempo of the book rhythm significantly. I'm a big believer in book rhythm, pace and this exceeded in that expectation.
I could, smell taste and touch my world in this book. For the book purist, this is the highest form of escapism.
I found myself a fair bit just smiling at this story and at the end there may have been a misty eye as well haha.
'Ohana, all those who are claimed, loved and nourished by a family group.
To Kai this means staying on his island to mind his father and brother. Until he meets the flighty Tessa, who shakes the very foundation of that belief. The past crashes over both of them and implodes their foundations. Can you really have roots and wings?
July 21, 2016
4.5 stars.
"Sometimes what you want isn't what you need."
When Tessa steps into Kai's life, neither of them know what they need or want. Both have their own version of a troubled upbringing, both have fractures running through their concept of family, and both desire freedom, but is freedom ever truly possible?
This book isn't merely another case of love curing all ills.
The characters are interesting, real and vibrant - their complexities bring them alive. This is particularly skillful, as the story is told solely from Kai's point of view. Writing a convincing p.o.v. from a gender different to your own can be hard to get right, however there are no such difficulties here. His voice is strong, and at times broken, just as he is.
There is a fabulous cast of supporting characters too. I defy anyone to not fall a little bit in love with Kai's brother, Akamu. And Garrett is that perfect combination of heart of gold, and life lived hard.
Life is complicated. The line between broken and whole is a lot finer than you think.
This book takes you to emotional heights and depths. There were tears, more than once, and for different reasons. A compelling read which will have you desperate for the next part of the story.
"Sometimes what you want isn't what you need."
When Tessa steps into Kai's life, neither of them know what they need or want. Both have their own version of a troubled upbringing, both have fractures running through their concept of family, and both desire freedom, but is freedom ever truly possible?
This book isn't merely another case of love curing all ills.
The characters are interesting, real and vibrant - their complexities bring them alive. This is particularly skillful, as the story is told solely from Kai's point of view. Writing a convincing p.o.v. from a gender different to your own can be hard to get right, however there are no such difficulties here. His voice is strong, and at times broken, just as he is.
There is a fabulous cast of supporting characters too. I defy anyone to not fall a little bit in love with Kai's brother, Akamu. And Garrett is that perfect combination of heart of gold, and life lived hard.
Life is complicated. The line between broken and whole is a lot finer than you think.
This book takes you to emotional heights and depths. There were tears, more than once, and for different reasons. A compelling read which will have you desperate for the next part of the story.
May 8, 2016
Rebecca Addison wrote the most perfect story. With just the right amount of love and heart break, The Ohana Tree has easily made it's way into my top favorite books.
The Ohana Tree is about a young man torn between family, responsibility, passion, and love. The main character, Kai, will teach you about family and how family should care for one another and make sacrifices for one another. Kai is content with his living situation and routine until he meets Tessa. Kai is unaware that she will change everything. Is it possible to be afraid of loving someone too much?
This book kept me on the edge of my seat! I was an emotional wreck. I was happy, I was laughing, I was hurt, and at times I was balling my eyes out. There are many surprises and secrets throughout the book! I could not put it down!
I really enjoyed Addison's writing style! This story is very complex and is not going to be the story you are expecting to read. I look forward to reading more of Rebecca's work and hopefully seeing more of Kai and Tessa.
Always remember, "Family isn't always the people who made you; it's the people who love you".
The Ohana Tree is about a young man torn between family, responsibility, passion, and love. The main character, Kai, will teach you about family and how family should care for one another and make sacrifices for one another. Kai is content with his living situation and routine until he meets Tessa. Kai is unaware that she will change everything. Is it possible to be afraid of loving someone too much?
This book kept me on the edge of my seat! I was an emotional wreck. I was happy, I was laughing, I was hurt, and at times I was balling my eyes out. There are many surprises and secrets throughout the book! I could not put it down!
I really enjoyed Addison's writing style! This story is very complex and is not going to be the story you are expecting to read. I look forward to reading more of Rebecca's work and hopefully seeing more of Kai and Tessa.
Always remember, "Family isn't always the people who made you; it's the people who love you".
April 6, 2016
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a story of love, strength and forgiveness all wrapped up in family and finally letting go of the baggage holding you back.
I love books when the going gets tough the tough stick it the hell out and this book didn't disappoint; it may have even made my eyes leak a couple of times................This book takes place in laid back Hawaii and there is a calming, laid back pace to it which encompasses the setting even during the hard and emotional parts, but this pace does not take away the intensity of the moment.
This was a enjoyable read and I can highly recommend it.
Now I am off to make a lemon meringue pie!
This is a story of love, strength and forgiveness all wrapped up in family and finally letting go of the baggage holding you back.
I love books when the going gets tough the tough stick it the hell out and this book didn't disappoint; it may have even made my eyes leak a couple of times................This book takes place in laid back Hawaii and there is a calming, laid back pace to it which encompasses the setting even during the hard and emotional parts, but this pace does not take away the intensity of the moment.
This was a enjoyable read and I can highly recommend it.
Now I am off to make a lemon meringue pie!
Want to read
April 30, 2016I received an ARC for this book from the author. This is the second book from this author and I have to say it's a big improvement from her debut. The writing in this one is a lot better.
This is a story about boy meets girl, girl meets family. Kai is the storyteller in this book. Tessa is the free spirit who has just stopped in to see a long-time friend, and she wasn't counting on meeting Kai a fellow musician and his family. She wasn't counting on uncovering a secret or two either.
There are a few up and downs in this story a few moments as well.
Roll on #2.
This is a story about boy meets girl, girl meets family. Kai is the storyteller in this book. Tessa is the free spirit who has just stopped in to see a long-time friend, and she wasn't counting on meeting Kai a fellow musician and his family. She wasn't counting on uncovering a secret or two either.
There are a few up and downs in this story a few moments as well.
Roll on #2.
Read
May 1, 2016The 'Ohana Tree is now live for download on all major retailers. This story is very close to my heart and I'm so excited to share it with you. I'd love to chat with you and answer your questions so don't be shy! Thanks so much for your support and don't forget to enter the giveaways I'm running - one here on Goodreads ending May 10 and a Swag Bag giveaway on my blog ending May 20.
The paperback version will be coming very soon.
Happy reading!
The paperback version will be coming very soon.
Happy reading!
December 23, 2016
I won this book as a goodreads give away. I'm so glad I did. It turned out to be the perfect summer read. It's a beautiful honest story. I was first drawn to it by the importance music played in the story and the lives of the two characters. But the story itself is so much more than that and pulled me in. This book is full of characters that I've come to love, care about, and feel invested in. I would suggest this book for anyone looking for a good beach read, a good summer book, and a good, believable love story.
May 21, 2016
loved this book!!!! I was really carried away with Kai and Tess..... can't wait for their second installment
April 20, 2016
Crosspost: TheReadingBelle.com
I was kindly provided the arc by the author for my honest opinion. One of my new years resolution was to read more indie authors, and luckily this book fits the criteria. I’m trying to read different genres, instead of sticking with the same old genre.
The ‘Ohana Tree begins with Kai, an inspiring musician that constantly puts his family’s needs above his own. Kai’s father and brother rely on him on just about everything. Kai dreams of leaving the island and pursuing his dream. Kai is stuck on the island and he doesn’t believe that he’ll ever leave.
One day he meets Tessa, an equally gifted musician who constantly travels. Kai is immediately captivated by Tessa, especially her music.
Tessa is a girl who doesn’t want to fall in love because she has many failed relationships. Tessa is attracted to Kai as well, but she knows that she’ll end up hurting him if they start a relationship. Tessa decides to push Kai away, but Kai never gives up on her. Kai and Tessa manage to form a relationship even though both protagonists have tragic backstories.
I haven’t read in a male point of view in such a long time, so it was a refreshing change. As for the characters, I really liked them equally, but if I had to pick my favorite, it would be Kai. Kai was the perfect boyfriend to Tessa. He hardly has any faults. He sacrifices his needs and puts others above him. Kai loves his ‘ohana more than anything. Though Tess wants to keep her privacy, Kai never gives up on her. Both characters bring out the best in each other. Tess made Kai feel that anything was possible, especially leaving the island behind. While Kai helped changed Tess’ perspective on love and family. Kai and Tess’ relationship is really stable, though there were some moments that they bickered.
The secondary characters were just as great. I felt sad for Kai’s father. Though Kai never had a loving relationship with his father, his father cared deeply for him. Tess saw another side to Kai’s father that Kai was not seeing.
Akamu (Kai’s younger brother) is very supportive of Kai’s relationship with Tess. There were many funny interactions with Akamu being a third wheel.
Before I started reading The ‘Ohana Tree, I didn’t know what to expect. After reading the first book, I was amazed at how emotionally invested I was with the characters and their situations. Also, this book had several steamy moments. I really enjoyed reading The ‘Ohana Tree and I can’t wait for the sequel. This book felt more like something I would take on the beach, and it’s set in Hawaii.
My favorite quote:
I was kindly provided the arc by the author for my honest opinion. One of my new years resolution was to read more indie authors, and luckily this book fits the criteria. I’m trying to read different genres, instead of sticking with the same old genre.
The ‘Ohana Tree begins with Kai, an inspiring musician that constantly puts his family’s needs above his own. Kai’s father and brother rely on him on just about everything. Kai dreams of leaving the island and pursuing his dream. Kai is stuck on the island and he doesn’t believe that he’ll ever leave.
Perhaps that was the problem. Nothing out of the ordinary ever happened to me. I was still young, my body strong and my head full of dreams and ideas. But I felt old, and my world grew smaller and smaller each passing year. There were expectations. That I would stay on the island. That I would look after our land. That I would watch over my family.
One day he meets Tessa, an equally gifted musician who constantly travels. Kai is immediately captivated by Tessa, especially her music.
She was free, spontaneous, curious and independent. It made me happy. But it felt risky, too. I knew that I was in a dangerous waters with Tess. There was a real chance that she was going to give me a glimpse of a a magical, high definition version of my life, only to leave me to live out the one I had instead.
Tessa is a girl who doesn’t want to fall in love because she has many failed relationships. Tessa is attracted to Kai as well, but she knows that she’ll end up hurting him if they start a relationship. Tessa decides to push Kai away, but Kai never gives up on her. Kai and Tessa manage to form a relationship even though both protagonists have tragic backstories.
I haven’t read in a male point of view in such a long time, so it was a refreshing change. As for the characters, I really liked them equally, but if I had to pick my favorite, it would be Kai. Kai was the perfect boyfriend to Tessa. He hardly has any faults. He sacrifices his needs and puts others above him. Kai loves his ‘ohana more than anything. Though Tess wants to keep her privacy, Kai never gives up on her. Both characters bring out the best in each other. Tess made Kai feel that anything was possible, especially leaving the island behind. While Kai helped changed Tess’ perspective on love and family. Kai and Tess’ relationship is really stable, though there were some moments that they bickered.
The secondary characters were just as great. I felt sad for Kai’s father. Though Kai never had a loving relationship with his father, his father cared deeply for him. Tess saw another side to Kai’s father that Kai was not seeing.
Why do you do that?
Do what?
Make it sound like he’s this callous, evil man. You don’t have to thank me for hanging out with him, Kai. I like him and I like spending time up there.
Akamu (Kai’s younger brother) is very supportive of Kai’s relationship with Tess. There were many funny interactions with Akamu being a third wheel.
Before I started reading The ‘Ohana Tree, I didn’t know what to expect. After reading the first book, I was amazed at how emotionally invested I was with the characters and their situations. Also, this book had several steamy moments. I really enjoyed reading The ‘Ohana Tree and I can’t wait for the sequel. This book felt more like something I would take on the beach, and it’s set in Hawaii.
My favorite quote:
Ohana isn’t just your blood, Tess. It’s the family you choose for yourself. Family isn’t just the people who made you; it’s the people who love you.
July 3, 2016
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
To be honest, I really can’t pinpoint what rubs me off the wrong way about this book, but something really does. Don’t get me wrong, though. For the record, the book is good, but somehow, there are just some things that hinder this one from leaving a lasting impression on me.
For me, the strongest point of this book is the writing. I commend the vivid descriptions, which make you feel like you’re really in Hawaii. Despite not understanding the language the characters speak, I appreciate the phrases and other cultural additives, which help in the world-building of the story. However, perhaps, ironically, the descriptions are also the book’s weakness. While the clear descriptions are commendable for perfectly depicting the locations and appearances of the characters, the descriptions may have exceeded their purpose when they also start telling -and not showing- the emotions of the characters to the point that they leave us readers the lack of opportunity to interpret the emotions of the characters themselves. Furthermore, I am turned off with the huge chunk of paragraphs that just try to describe everything, making the narration sound monotonous in the process. It’s like reading a recipe where everything’s written chronologically and technically.
I also have a hard time connecting with Tessa. The writing with Tessa is so detached that I do not feel any pity or remorse for her and her backstory. I repeat, it’s not about Tessa’s personality (maybe a little), but more of the writing when it comes to her. It’s just so detached. She is so hard to like that it’ll make you wonder how Kai falls in love with her so fast aside from her, you know, being ~beautiful.~
Or perhaps I am disappointed that the story doesn’t revolve around music like I expect it to be. I’m a sucker for musicians, so I have high expectations on how music will play a part in the characters’ story and development. So in the summary, it says that Kai is a musician in the island. And at the beginning of the book, Tessa is seen by Kai playing violin beautifully, and he is drawn to her since then. I find that scene beautiful, and is excited about what comes next, but then the monotonous narrations come up, equipped with heavy drama that’s presented with just more telling and less showing, and the music factor only comes up sporadically.
While the middle part gets boring, the pace picks up and the dialogues start pouring in at the latter chapters. It is only then when I feel something for Tessa and everything is okay with the world and the ohana tree.
I initially rated this book two stars, but after giving it some thought, this book deserves three stars. The book has a good premise, well-thought out plot, likeable-ish supporting characters, and vivid descriptions despite the heavy drama and how it is written.
To be honest, I really can’t pinpoint what rubs me off the wrong way about this book, but something really does. Don’t get me wrong, though. For the record, the book is good, but somehow, there are just some things that hinder this one from leaving a lasting impression on me.
For me, the strongest point of this book is the writing. I commend the vivid descriptions, which make you feel like you’re really in Hawaii. Despite not understanding the language the characters speak, I appreciate the phrases and other cultural additives, which help in the world-building of the story. However, perhaps, ironically, the descriptions are also the book’s weakness. While the clear descriptions are commendable for perfectly depicting the locations and appearances of the characters, the descriptions may have exceeded their purpose when they also start telling -and not showing- the emotions of the characters to the point that they leave us readers the lack of opportunity to interpret the emotions of the characters themselves. Furthermore, I am turned off with the huge chunk of paragraphs that just try to describe everything, making the narration sound monotonous in the process. It’s like reading a recipe where everything’s written chronologically and technically.
I also have a hard time connecting with Tessa. The writing with Tessa is so detached that I do not feel any pity or remorse for her and her backstory. I repeat, it’s not about Tessa’s personality (maybe a little), but more of the writing when it comes to her. It’s just so detached. She is so hard to like that it’ll make you wonder how Kai falls in love with her so fast aside from her, you know, being ~beautiful.~
Or perhaps I am disappointed that the story doesn’t revolve around music like I expect it to be. I’m a sucker for musicians, so I have high expectations on how music will play a part in the characters’ story and development. So in the summary, it says that Kai is a musician in the island. And at the beginning of the book, Tessa is seen by Kai playing violin beautifully, and he is drawn to her since then. I find that scene beautiful, and is excited about what comes next, but then the monotonous narrations come up, equipped with heavy drama that’s presented with just more telling and less showing, and the music factor only comes up sporadically.
While the middle part gets boring, the pace picks up and the dialogues start pouring in at the latter chapters. It is only then when I feel something for Tessa and everything is okay with the world and the ohana tree.
I initially rated this book two stars, but after giving it some thought, this book deserves three stars. The book has a good premise, well-thought out plot, likeable-ish supporting characters, and vivid descriptions despite the heavy drama and how it is written.
July 12, 2016
I was gifted a copy of this book by its author in exchange for an honest review. That fact doesn't change my opinion at all.
Actual rating: 4 stars.
The Ohana Tree is the story of Kai, a native Hawaiian who does whatever he needs to do to help out his family. In doing that, he sacrifices his own happiness all along the way.
Kai loves music, but has never gotten around to making his own. He's been offered record deals before, but along with those deals, comes leaving his family… Which he's not prepared to do. It's been his mission on life to make sure his younger brother, Akamu, always knows that Kai will be there for him.
His whole world gets shaken up when he meets Tessa. Tessa has issues of her own, but she very quickly attached herself to Kai, and his brother by extension. Tessa's big thing is running… She never stays in one place for long, but when she ends up in Hawaii, she finally feels like maybe she won't run.
Kai and his family are a big part of that, but also Tessa's friend Garrett helps to ground her. Her demons bubble up on the surface and she has a hard time letting people in, but she slowly let's Kai crack the surface.
**
I'm not going to lie - when I first started reading this book, I want so sure that I was going to be able to get into it. While the author paints a very vivid picture, it just didn't hold my attention that well. But, I chugged through the first couple chapters and I'm so glad I did.
The Ohana Tree is a book with a while lot of heart. It's very easy to connect with Kai. He's just a guy that wants to do what's right, even at the expense of his own happiness. He's used to being let down and views to not let his younger brother down.
Tessa was a little harder to get a good read on. She tends to keep herself closed off and you know that there's more to her than what's just on the surface. Luckily, Kai's able to crack into that a little bit (even if it takes him a long time) and it makes you see that what she's been doing is preserving herself. There's a lot going on there and her back story is depressing, but you get to see some redemption.
As I mentioned before… The author paints a very vivid picture of all the details. I've always wanted to visit Hawaii, but now… It's a must on my bucket list.
If you're looking for a story that has a lot of heart and is very family oriented, this is the book for you.
Actual rating: 4 stars.
The Ohana Tree is the story of Kai, a native Hawaiian who does whatever he needs to do to help out his family. In doing that, he sacrifices his own happiness all along the way.
Kai loves music, but has never gotten around to making his own. He's been offered record deals before, but along with those deals, comes leaving his family… Which he's not prepared to do. It's been his mission on life to make sure his younger brother, Akamu, always knows that Kai will be there for him.
His whole world gets shaken up when he meets Tessa. Tessa has issues of her own, but she very quickly attached herself to Kai, and his brother by extension. Tessa's big thing is running… She never stays in one place for long, but when she ends up in Hawaii, she finally feels like maybe she won't run.
Kai and his family are a big part of that, but also Tessa's friend Garrett helps to ground her. Her demons bubble up on the surface and she has a hard time letting people in, but she slowly let's Kai crack the surface.
**
I'm not going to lie - when I first started reading this book, I want so sure that I was going to be able to get into it. While the author paints a very vivid picture, it just didn't hold my attention that well. But, I chugged through the first couple chapters and I'm so glad I did.
The Ohana Tree is a book with a while lot of heart. It's very easy to connect with Kai. He's just a guy that wants to do what's right, even at the expense of his own happiness. He's used to being let down and views to not let his younger brother down.
Tessa was a little harder to get a good read on. She tends to keep herself closed off and you know that there's more to her than what's just on the surface. Luckily, Kai's able to crack into that a little bit (even if it takes him a long time) and it makes you see that what she's been doing is preserving herself. There's a lot going on there and her back story is depressing, but you get to see some redemption.
As I mentioned before… The author paints a very vivid picture of all the details. I've always wanted to visit Hawaii, but now… It's a must on my bucket list.
If you're looking for a story that has a lot of heart and is very family oriented, this is the book for you.
April 22, 2016
I was so excited to get my hands on this book because I was such a huge fan of Rebecca's first book, Still Waters. If you haven't read it yet, go get it now!
It's so hard to put into words how much I loved this story. It's a story of loss, love, hope, responsibility, and most importantly, family. It's so beautifully written that I could picture all of the scenery of the island, especially the fruit trees that Kai and Tessa take walks in at Kai's family house. At first, I felt like Kai and Tessa were so different and I couldn't quite see in her what he saw. However, as the story goes on, I saw how much their music brought them together and how the simple thought of family is something important to both of them (Kai's overabundance of family and Tessa's lack thereof). I kept waiting for the story to take the predicable turn where Tessa did what she always does (I don't want to give too much away here). I was so pleasantly surprised with the turn it took instead where Kai and Tessa take the harder, more difficult road instead of the easy way out. Their journey together was really beautiful.
There were so many emotions running through this book, and I felt every one of them. When Kai is in the hotel and calls his dad from the bathroom... the tears just started. I adored reading about every single one of the secondary characters and their role in the story. Kai's dad was on a difficult journey of his own, and I was so proud of him at the end. I also really loved Akamu and thought that he brought a lot of humor to the story. Overall, it was just the feeling of unconditional love that I got that you have for your family. You can be angry, disappointed, sad, but the love for them is always there.
One thing I hope to see in the second book is part of it written from Tessa's POV. I loved that this entire book was in Kai's POV and I thought that was really important to see just how much of a genuinely good person he is and to leave parts of Tessa a mystery to the reader just as she was a bit of a mystery to Kai. Now that we know where Tessa is headed in her journey, it would be great to peek a bit into her head. I can't wait for book 2!
*ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
It's so hard to put into words how much I loved this story. It's a story of loss, love, hope, responsibility, and most importantly, family. It's so beautifully written that I could picture all of the scenery of the island, especially the fruit trees that Kai and Tessa take walks in at Kai's family house. At first, I felt like Kai and Tessa were so different and I couldn't quite see in her what he saw. However, as the story goes on, I saw how much their music brought them together and how the simple thought of family is something important to both of them (Kai's overabundance of family and Tessa's lack thereof). I kept waiting for the story to take the predicable turn where Tessa did what she always does (I don't want to give too much away here). I was so pleasantly surprised with the turn it took instead where Kai and Tessa take the harder, more difficult road instead of the easy way out. Their journey together was really beautiful.
There were so many emotions running through this book, and I felt every one of them. When Kai is in the hotel and calls his dad from the bathroom... the tears just started. I adored reading about every single one of the secondary characters and their role in the story. Kai's dad was on a difficult journey of his own, and I was so proud of him at the end. I also really loved Akamu and thought that he brought a lot of humor to the story. Overall, it was just the feeling of unconditional love that I got that you have for your family. You can be angry, disappointed, sad, but the love for them is always there.
One thing I hope to see in the second book is part of it written from Tessa's POV. I loved that this entire book was in Kai's POV and I thought that was really important to see just how much of a genuinely good person he is and to leave parts of Tessa a mystery to the reader just as she was a bit of a mystery to Kai. Now that we know where Tessa is headed in her journey, it would be great to peek a bit into her head. I can't wait for book 2!
*ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
June 25, 2016
***I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.***
This is the second book I've read by Rebecca Addison -Still Waters was the first - , and I think I like this one much better! Still Waters stressed me out in places an lagged in others, and I feel like the pacing and plot in this story were more to my liking!
This is a simply complicated story (see what I did there?) about Kai and Tessa and their relationship as it develops on an island in Hawaii.
I don't want to write a review that gives too much detail into the plot and how it develops, but let's just say that even though Kai lives in paradise, he just might be ready for an escape. And even though Tessa usually runs from place to place refusing to settle down, Hawaii might just have all the right feels (and people) to keep her there.
I mean who doesn't want to live in paradise, amiright? It's not the imagery of the beaches that got to me, it was the inland landscape that suckered me in. I feel like Hawaii was as much of a character in this story as the people in it.
Tessa is a pretty intense character that has an edge of mystery surrounding her. I feel like that got resolved to my satisfaction at the end of the book. In the meantime, she was a tough nut for Kai to crack. Sometimes I just wanted to say "COMMUNICAION PEOPLE!" But let's be honest. Without communication issues, the book would be about 1 chapter, lol.
I will say that while the book didn't end on a cliffhanger, I kept wanting there to be at least one more paragraph, page, chapter, SOMETHING! It's that ending that is keeping me from giving this book 5 stars. I know there will be a 2nd book out in a few months that continues this story, but I wanted just a bit more there at the end.
If you like strong characters, an intriguing story line and a MAGNIFICENT setting, I strongly suggest you pick this one up.
I've never wanted to visit Hawaii before now, but today I've changed my mind!
This is the second book I've read by Rebecca Addison -Still Waters was the first - , and I think I like this one much better! Still Waters stressed me out in places an lagged in others, and I feel like the pacing and plot in this story were more to my liking!
This is a simply complicated story (see what I did there?) about Kai and Tessa and their relationship as it develops on an island in Hawaii.
I don't want to write a review that gives too much detail into the plot and how it develops, but let's just say that even though Kai lives in paradise, he just might be ready for an escape. And even though Tessa usually runs from place to place refusing to settle down, Hawaii might just have all the right feels (and people) to keep her there.
I mean who doesn't want to live in paradise, amiright? It's not the imagery of the beaches that got to me, it was the inland landscape that suckered me in. I feel like Hawaii was as much of a character in this story as the people in it.
Tessa is a pretty intense character that has an edge of mystery surrounding her. I feel like that got resolved to my satisfaction at the end of the book. In the meantime, she was a tough nut for Kai to crack. Sometimes I just wanted to say "COMMUNICAION PEOPLE!" But let's be honest. Without communication issues, the book would be about 1 chapter, lol.
I will say that while the book didn't end on a cliffhanger, I kept wanting there to be at least one more paragraph, page, chapter, SOMETHING! It's that ending that is keeping me from giving this book 5 stars. I know there will be a 2nd book out in a few months that continues this story, but I wanted just a bit more there at the end.
If you like strong characters, an intriguing story line and a MAGNIFICENT setting, I strongly suggest you pick this one up.
I've never wanted to visit Hawaii before now, but today I've changed my mind!
April 22, 2016
The 'Ohana Tree is a story set in beautiful, lush Hawaii. Our protagonist is Kai, a native who has lived with his family on the mango orchard his whole life. He's a musician by night but is the kind of laid-back local that drive the tourists crazy.
Enter Tessa, your atypical "visitor" who isn't much interested in more than survival and definitely not looking for love. However, Kai and Tessa hit it off and realize they have a lot in common—which upsets both of their plans, as Tessa doesn't stay anywhere for long and Kai feels stuck with his family and on the island.
I became engrossed immediately in their love story from the first page and the book flew by! I love when a book does that to me. But there was sooo much going on with both of our characters, maybe too much. But the ending did not disappoint. Sometimes in life, we have to make hard decisions, ones that we'd rather not make, and that's exactly what Kai does. It makes you feel a little hollow and then are relieved when you know there will be a sequel!
I have a soft spot for Indie writers and was glad to read this book!
Enter Tessa, your atypical "visitor" who isn't much interested in more than survival and definitely not looking for love. However, Kai and Tessa hit it off and realize they have a lot in common—which upsets both of their plans, as Tessa doesn't stay anywhere for long and Kai feels stuck with his family and on the island.
I became engrossed immediately in their love story from the first page and the book flew by! I love when a book does that to me. But there was sooo much going on with both of our characters, maybe too much. But the ending did not disappoint. Sometimes in life, we have to make hard decisions, ones that we'd rather not make, and that's exactly what Kai does. It makes you feel a little hollow and then are relieved when you know there will be a sequel!
I have a soft spot for Indie writers and was glad to read this book!
April 21, 2016
I was super stoked to receive an ARC copy of Rebecca Addison's new novel 'The 'Ohana Tree' after falling in love with Rebecca Addison's beautifully crafted characters in her Debut novel 'Still Waters'. The 'Ohana Tree does not disappoint, from the first chapter I was hooked. It was crafted with eloquence and depth of character, and in her unique style, Rebecca gives you an inside view of a character's world, one that you have to continue exploring. The plot is layered and she masterfully delivers backstory throughout to further connect the reader to the story. Her development of supporting characters was excellent - their impact on the story was significant, especially Aka. All through the eyes of her male lead which was an amazing feat on its own. I laughed loudly, cried in a few scenes (so beautiful) and cannot wait for book two to see what is waiting for Tess and Kai . And I was very impressed with how she dealt with some very raw issues. Great job. I will be waiting with baited breath for #2. Highly recommend.
April 8, 2016
I was lucky to receive an ARC of The 'Ohana Tree by Rebecca Addison.
This is the second book of Rebecca's that I have read and whilst I didn't quite enjoy this one as much as her first book "Still Waters" it was still a good read.
I could really picture the beauty of Hawaii, and in particular the plantation that the main character Kai lives on. Imagery is really the authors strong point. She really made me feel like I was there.
Likeable characters, but perhaps there were just so many issues going on with each of them that it was at times slightly overwhelming for me.
Overall a good story in the contemporary romance genre I believe. 3.5 Stars from me.
This is the second book of Rebecca's that I have read and whilst I didn't quite enjoy this one as much as her first book "Still Waters" it was still a good read.
I could really picture the beauty of Hawaii, and in particular the plantation that the main character Kai lives on. Imagery is really the authors strong point. She really made me feel like I was there.
Likeable characters, but perhaps there were just so many issues going on with each of them that it was at times slightly overwhelming for me.
Overall a good story in the contemporary romance genre I believe. 3.5 Stars from me.
April 21, 2016
I really looked forward to reading this book after reading Still Waters. The first page had me tied to the book, I knew I wanted to know more about these characters but it wasn't until the second half that I couldn't put it down. Rebecca Addison writes in such a way that you feel you know the characters, and are connected to them and their homes. The characters desire freedom, and I found myself urging them towards it. Kai was a strong and favourite character and I look forward to reading about what happens to him and Tess in #2. Thoroughly recommend.
January 1, 2017
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly, loved it. As with Rebecca's first book, Still Waters, I found myself thinking about the characters in my day to day life. I even carried on reading when my husband had long turned his light out. Rebecca has the skill of developing characters who become larger than life and transporting the reader to where the books setting, in this case Hawaii.
I really did enjoy this book and loved that it was told from the perspective of the main male character.
I don't want to elaborate on the story as you should read it too.
Honestly, loved it. As with Rebecca's first book, Still Waters, I found myself thinking about the characters in my day to day life. I even carried on reading when my husband had long turned his light out. Rebecca has the skill of developing characters who become larger than life and transporting the reader to where the books setting, in this case Hawaii.
I really did enjoy this book and loved that it was told from the perspective of the main male character.
I don't want to elaborate on the story as you should read it too.
April 19, 2016
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This isn't your typical "palm trees swaying in the breeze, cute Hawaiian boy meets girl on holiday" romance. This is so much more - deeper, intense and beautifully evocative of an island that isn't all pina coladas and surfing. Rebecca paints a vivid and believable indigenous family history, a mysteriously complicated heroine and a flawed and conflicted romance that will leave you wondering - where to next? Highly recommended.
This isn't your typical "palm trees swaying in the breeze, cute Hawaiian boy meets girl on holiday" romance. This is so much more - deeper, intense and beautifully evocative of an island that isn't all pina coladas and surfing. Rebecca paints a vivid and believable indigenous family history, a mysteriously complicated heroine and a flawed and conflicted romance that will leave you wondering - where to next? Highly recommended.
April 18, 2016
I couldn't wait to start reading this book as an ARC after having read the authors first book, Still Waters. Once again, Addison manages to create characters you want to get to know, ones that you don't want to say goodbye to. Her writing is evocative and I felt like I knew the island and the orchard as places I had visited. It was easy to immerse myself in this book about love, loss and finding and I cannot wait to find out where life leads the characters in the sequel.
August 26, 2016
This is a well written book. It made me feel like I knew these people. It made my laugh and brought tears to my eyes. When I reached the end I wasn't happy, I wanted more.
October 1, 2016
Definitely a tear jerker. Didn't want to like it, but I did. Even though I despise the ending, it isn't because it was poorly done. I just hate how heart wrenching it was. :(
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews