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Becoming Charlie: Part One
Introverted and eidetic Charlie Mason never quite fit in with the in crowd—or any crowd, for that matter; nor did she want to. Being invisible suited her just fine. At age nine, a tragic vehicle accident left Charlie in a coma for over a month and took the life of her brother, the person she admired most. She closed in on herself and blocked out everything from her past, including her best friend. Six years later, her life is about to change whether she wants it to or not. Seventeen-year-old Sean Reese is a legend on the baseball field and one of the most popular guys at Eden High. When Charlie is attacked by three guys in the ball-field parking lot, Sean saves her in more ways than one. He wants to be her friend and will not take no for an answer. Two teenagers form an impenetrable bond and nothing will be able to tear them apart… not even when Charlie begins to remember.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 3, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
January 28, 2019
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I was quickly swept up into the story and couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. The characters are complex and well developed. I liked the way the author chose to tell the story, though I can’t help but wonder what Sean is thinking at times. There is one issue I have with the story and it is the inattention the teachers gave to Charlie during a particular scene. I have a hard time believing it would occur so found myself pulled from the story. I questioned why the author did this and couldn’t focus on the story. I put the book down at this point to read something else so I could come back to the story. This aspect bothered me so much because this book is geared for YA readers. It concerned me the message that was potentially being sent. As I mentioned, overall I liked the book. I do look forward to seeing what happens next.
May 17, 2019
This story went to unexpected places with its characters. They formed a strong bond as they revealed their secrets to each other. There was a lot more to Charlie's story than just being the smart, nerdy girl who falls for the popular jock. I also liked how Sean was portrayed as caring and affectionate rather than being conceited and oversexed. He's not perfect, but he treats Charlie well right from the beginning. I also liked how Charlie set him straight when he overstepped his boundaries. Although she has her insecurities, she doesn't let him get away with everything just because she is smitten with him.
Part of the charm of YA romances is the characters' uncertainty about each other's feelings. The reader knows that they like each other as more than friends long before they do, and the fun is in the anticipation of when and how they will discover that their feelings are reciprocated. There are so many exciting almost moments. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
I listened to the audiobook version of this, and I really liked the narration. Melissa Moran did a great job of voicing both the female and male characters. She kept me engaged in the story the entire time, and I didn't want it to end.
Part of the charm of YA romances is the characters' uncertainty about each other's feelings. The reader knows that they like each other as more than friends long before they do, and the fun is in the anticipation of when and how they will discover that their feelings are reciprocated. There are so many exciting almost moments. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
I listened to the audiobook version of this, and I really liked the narration. Melissa Moran did a great job of voicing both the female and male characters. She kept me engaged in the story the entire time, and I didn't want it to end.
February 17, 2019
What a great book! Charlie and Sean meet when a group of school thugs threaten Charlie. It's a friendship ever since then. An awkward friendship with ups and downs and twists and turns. I love this story! Wow, to be young and love someone can be a wonderful feeling indeed.
What if your new best friend had a secret? What if you had one too? That's what these two vow never to keep from one another.
In book one, Charlie, the unnoticeable girl, and Sean, the school's hottie, are just getting started and learning as they go to cope with their own issues, but are having some difficulties doing that. That's where they lean on each other.
Side note: This book is one of the most touching and well written books I've read so far this year. Kudos to the author! I'm looking forward to book 2, which I've downloaded.
What if your new best friend had a secret? What if you had one too? That's what these two vow never to keep from one another.
In book one, Charlie, the unnoticeable girl, and Sean, the school's hottie, are just getting started and learning as they go to cope with their own issues, but are having some difficulties doing that. That's where they lean on each other.
Side note: This book is one of the most touching and well written books I've read so far this year. Kudos to the author! I'm looking forward to book 2, which I've downloaded.
January 29, 2019
Wow I couldn’t put this book down! I haven’t read a YA book in a very long time but I really was sucked into this one. Charlie and Sean’s stories and friendship are so realistic and their friendship had me on the edge of my seat. I can’t wait to see where part 2 takes their life and friendship. Definitely a must read for parents and their teenage children. I sure could have used a friend like Sean when I was in high school.
February 10, 2019
Much understanding to be gained here.
Many individuals suffer irreversible personal issues and trauma. Few can truly grasp what it means to carry these. Often they must be held close and hidden. The kind of attention drawn not helpful or healing. I personally don't like explaining to everyone my own. Yet there is strength to be gained in letting go. Once a person can accept themselves. Others opinions have much less power to hurt.
Many individuals suffer irreversible personal issues and trauma. Few can truly grasp what it means to carry these. Often they must be held close and hidden. The kind of attention drawn not helpful or healing. I personally don't like explaining to everyone my own. Yet there is strength to be gained in letting go. Once a person can accept themselves. Others opinions have much less power to hurt.
February 4, 2019
Becoming Charlie
A great contemporary ya romance about self discovery and the power of friendship. I enjoyed the characters and how together they worked on overcoming their own personal struggles.
A great contemporary ya romance about self discovery and the power of friendship. I enjoyed the characters and how together they worked on overcoming their own personal struggles.
June 13, 2018
I couldn't get enough of this book. I felt like I knew what was going to happen, and then it totally blew me away. I am full of anticipation for Part Two!
August 25, 2018
Audio review
This is my first from the author . I’ve never listened to a YA audio . But the blurb and the reminder and memory of being in High School I had to get it . Another bonus was Melissa Moran as the narrator .
This is told from Charlie’s point of view .
Charlie is starting the school year , in high school, Charlie feels left out , you wonder why , it’s because her body is not developed yet , she looks like a kid . You know how cruel high schoolers can be . She is signed out , she’s picked on .
Charley needs help but there is nobody there for her, She wishes she can catch someone’s eye .... mostly Sean , her secret crush . Sean actually helps her out at one point . After that Sean has a few questions for Charlie so she can see herself clearly .
This audio has lots of levels, drama and finding yourself .
Melissa was fantastic, strong voice , clear and she did all the emotions fantastic
This is my first from the author . I’ve never listened to a YA audio . But the blurb and the reminder and memory of being in High School I had to get it . Another bonus was Melissa Moran as the narrator .
This is told from Charlie’s point of view .
Charlie is starting the school year , in high school, Charlie feels left out , you wonder why , it’s because her body is not developed yet , she looks like a kid . You know how cruel high schoolers can be . She is signed out , she’s picked on .
Charley needs help but there is nobody there for her, She wishes she can catch someone’s eye .... mostly Sean , her secret crush . Sean actually helps her out at one point . After that Sean has a few questions for Charlie so she can see herself clearly .
This audio has lots of levels, drama and finding yourself .
Melissa was fantastic, strong voice , clear and she did all the emotions fantastic
May 30, 2019
I’m not sure where my rating is. 3.5-4. Idk. I liked this story. I have a hard time with YA so I don’t read it a whole lot. I have to keep reminding myself that they are young. Very young. But some of the issues the kids had that were a very large part of the story just seemed to be a nonissue to all the grownups in the story. And that’s a huge problem for me. Yeah you’re trying to deal with it but this is a huge, potentially dangerous issue.
This book is left unresolved, with of course a new issue to pop up at the very end. and has a second part.
This book is left unresolved, with of course a new issue to pop up at the very end. and has a second part.
September 7, 2018
What a brilliant YA read, every now and then my daughter who is 15 says mom you need to read this, so I know it's going to be good because she only recommends good reads, This is brilliant it takes you on a tale of angst anguish and teenager years that we have all been through, the good and the bad. I have one niggle which took this from a 5 star to a 4 star read, more on that in a moment. The story is based around two young adults who have been dealt a rough start in life Charlie as the invisible student she's ridiculed because of her under developed body her glasses her braces, she's there but kind of blink and you would miss her kind of student unless you want something like tutoring as she is a genius, and at the grand age of 15 she is quite happy to be like that she puts herself down, accepting a lie till the mirror is lying to her until one night a near traumatic event changes her life completely because enter stage left is Sean and Sean challenges Charlie's perception of herself. Both are keeping secrets from everyone but their families. "How many twists and turns can a YA story take? I mean, really. These are teenagers!" Yet I always think back to my traumatic teenage years and they really were hell, one small incident to an adult is an ever lasting nightmare for a teenager which is why I occasionally read these kind of books so I can keep up with my teenagers and understand them better,The wonderful Sean he suffers from I.E.D something that not a lot of people know of. The story is two so called broken kids one is very very popular the other a ghost along the walls by circumstances that are horrific get to meet. The way the story flowed was beautiful and if I am honest it was more like a 15 year old had written her thoughts down in some parts it didn't detract from the book at all, as it is told from only Charlie's point of view, I think it would have added an extra dimension if we had have had Sean's thoughts as well. I won't go too much into the plot because I truly think you need to go in blind, it will spoil the over all read.
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The niggley part and "SPOILER ALLERT" The near horrendous event on Charlie to which we get the character of Sean arriving in my books was not written properly not in it was written badly but that it was totally unacceptable or believable. I can not imagine any school or adult allowing males to get away with nearly raping and abducting a young girl and yet the teachers just turned around and walked away they didn't even phone her mother and her clothes had been ripped she was in pain, emotionally she would have been terrified yet it was washed under the carpet even the girls mother wasn't told and all because the young girl in question asked them not too, ERRRRR no sorry that for me spoiled the book. She is 15 a child it needs to have some essence of right or it makes a mockery of events like that in real life and as this is aimed at the YA market I really think it should have been handled differently. Even at the end her mother still didn't know , what would have happened if SEAN HADN'T REACHED HER IN TIME. I take scenes like this very seriously as my DAUGHTER read this what kind of message is that sending out. Other than that it is extremely good and I am so disappointed that book 2 is not available.
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The niggley part and "SPOILER ALLERT" The near horrendous event on Charlie to which we get the character of Sean arriving in my books was not written properly not in it was written badly but that it was totally unacceptable or believable. I can not imagine any school or adult allowing males to get away with nearly raping and abducting a young girl and yet the teachers just turned around and walked away they didn't even phone her mother and her clothes had been ripped she was in pain, emotionally she would have been terrified yet it was washed under the carpet even the girls mother wasn't told and all because the young girl in question asked them not too, ERRRRR no sorry that for me spoiled the book. She is 15 a child it needs to have some essence of right or it makes a mockery of events like that in real life and as this is aimed at the YA market I really think it should have been handled differently. Even at the end her mother still didn't know , what would have happened if SEAN HADN'T REACHED HER IN TIME. I take scenes like this very seriously as my DAUGHTER read this what kind of message is that sending out. Other than that it is extremely good and I am so disappointed that book 2 is not available.
October 4, 2018
BECOMING CHARLIE is the first book in the Becoming series. They will need to be read in the order of release.
Can an author who writes very adult (wink) paranormal novels also write sensitive teenage angst? The answer is YES and extremely well.
I was Charlie when I was a teenager. There were 714 people in my high school graduating class. I doubt you could find ten who knew me by name. I was invisible – probably because I was quietly introverted. Even as an adult, I still feel as though I am invisible most of the time. Charlie’s inner monologues when dealing with others could have come from the soundtrack of my life. In other words: By the end of this book, I felt that there was at least one other person on earth who knew how I felt and they wrote it into a fictionalized story. I must say thank you for that.
I don’t remember driving for the last four days. Instead, I was wrapped in the world of Sean and Charlie. There must have been a million quotable passages.
The definition of a boy had me giggling like mad.
“I am a guy. I’m pretty sure Webster’s definition of ‘guy’ says ‘Human adolescent male. Has a never-ending appetite. Does not ask for directions or use instructions for any reason.’”
I snickered. “You forgot ‘Thinks he knows everything’ and ‘Prone to overreacting and has caveman tendencies.’”
“Yes, those as well. Why do girls even like us?”
I shrugged.
“Because you’re tall and can reach things we can’t.”
“I guess the short guys are out of luck then, huh?”
Today, as I was returning from having the oil changed, I knew I was listening to the epilogue. I knew! Still, I screamed out at the end. I want more. I know the second book will soon be released. I hope the audiobook will follow soon after. I need to know what happens next. (Yes, that should be read in a little girl whiny voice.)
Narration: Melissa Moran is wonderful. As I said, I don’t remember driving as I listened to her beautiful performance in bringing Charlie’s story to life. This is what a good narrator does for me. You relax my demons so that I am not so nervous behind that wheel. Well done!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BECOMING CHARLIE
Series: Becoming Charlie #1
Category /Genre: YA, Contemporary
Recommended for: 13+ due to mature themes
Listenability: OK
Received from: Kristie Haigwood (as an Audible gifted copy)
Can an author who writes very adult (wink) paranormal novels also write sensitive teenage angst? The answer is YES and extremely well.
I was Charlie when I was a teenager. There were 714 people in my high school graduating class. I doubt you could find ten who knew me by name. I was invisible – probably because I was quietly introverted. Even as an adult, I still feel as though I am invisible most of the time. Charlie’s inner monologues when dealing with others could have come from the soundtrack of my life. In other words: By the end of this book, I felt that there was at least one other person on earth who knew how I felt and they wrote it into a fictionalized story. I must say thank you for that.
I don’t remember driving for the last four days. Instead, I was wrapped in the world of Sean and Charlie. There must have been a million quotable passages.
The definition of a boy had me giggling like mad.
“I am a guy. I’m pretty sure Webster’s definition of ‘guy’ says ‘Human adolescent male. Has a never-ending appetite. Does not ask for directions or use instructions for any reason.’”
I snickered. “You forgot ‘Thinks he knows everything’ and ‘Prone to overreacting and has caveman tendencies.’”
“Yes, those as well. Why do girls even like us?”
I shrugged.
“Because you’re tall and can reach things we can’t.”
“I guess the short guys are out of luck then, huh?”
Today, as I was returning from having the oil changed, I knew I was listening to the epilogue. I knew! Still, I screamed out at the end. I want more. I know the second book will soon be released. I hope the audiobook will follow soon after. I need to know what happens next. (Yes, that should be read in a little girl whiny voice.)
Narration: Melissa Moran is wonderful. As I said, I don’t remember driving as I listened to her beautiful performance in bringing Charlie’s story to life. This is what a good narrator does for me. You relax my demons so that I am not so nervous behind that wheel. Well done!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BECOMING CHARLIE
Series: Becoming Charlie #1
Category /Genre: YA, Contemporary
Recommended for: 13+ due to mature themes
Listenability: OK
Received from: Kristie Haigwood (as an Audible gifted copy)
January 27, 2019
Welcome to Eden high, where there are typical cliques and the popular people seem to run the school . Charlie is smart and also feels like she should be invisible so no one can see her and try and figure out her secret . Until the night when she was attacked by three of the thugs . One of the most popular boys on the baseball team saves her . Sean Reese saved her and they became friends . But they both are have secrets that they are hiding from each other . There will be obstacles in their way and misunderstandings that may break them up but will they over come them to be together
The characters in this book are sweet . At the beginning you have to figure out if Charlie is a girl or a boy but I did figure it out . She is sweet and young . She just wants to get through school and have no one find out her secret . As she spends time with Sean you start to see her blossom into a sweet young woman , who wants to live and be loved . She becomes sassy and courageous and your really want to love her and keep her safe . She has so much personality and she is also really hurting from a past . Sean is a really sweet and nerdy hot guy who is like a hero to Charlie . He saved her from a really bad situation and they became instant friends , flirting always with something more . But he is also hiding a very dark secret that if it got out could destroy him and Charlie all the same . They are such a fun couple to read . Charlie so shy and Sean so outgoing and they need each other .
This is a sweet book that both adults and teens can relate too . We have all been there feeling invisible around people . We just want to hide from the world and just make it through the day . The story takes us on a emotional rollercoaster that will make you cry and in the next sentence you are laughing . There are a couple of spots in the story that kind of drug but over all I really enjoyed this book and I am going to get my niece and her friends to read this series . Cause I know they have all felt the same way Charlie has .
The characters in this book are sweet . At the beginning you have to figure out if Charlie is a girl or a boy but I did figure it out . She is sweet and young . She just wants to get through school and have no one find out her secret . As she spends time with Sean you start to see her blossom into a sweet young woman , who wants to live and be loved . She becomes sassy and courageous and your really want to love her and keep her safe . She has so much personality and she is also really hurting from a past . Sean is a really sweet and nerdy hot guy who is like a hero to Charlie . He saved her from a really bad situation and they became instant friends , flirting always with something more . But he is also hiding a very dark secret that if it got out could destroy him and Charlie all the same . They are such a fun couple to read . Charlie so shy and Sean so outgoing and they need each other .
This is a sweet book that both adults and teens can relate too . We have all been there feeling invisible around people . We just want to hide from the world and just make it through the day . The story takes us on a emotional rollercoaster that will make you cry and in the next sentence you are laughing . There are a couple of spots in the story that kind of drug but over all I really enjoyed this book and I am going to get my niece and her friends to read this series . Cause I know they have all felt the same way Charlie has .
July 24, 2019
The popular guy and the invisible girl become fast friends when Charlie gets picked on and Sean rescues her. She’s an army brat he’s a baseball player attending the same high school. She’s the new girl and he’s the popular guy in school.
Narrator:
Melissa Moran was the solo performer of all the characters. She brought these characters to life. Great performance by Melissa. In fact, I enjoyed the audiobook above and beyond the story. She enhanced my reading experience. Sound quality was fantastic with no outside disturbances.
Overall:
I didn’t like how much Charlie’s character questioned everything by over analyzing actions and behaviors. Her thoughts were insecure. I know that was the way her character was intentionally written, but it wore on my patience. She was too sensitive and I struggled to relate with her or understand her. She came across as narrow minded. I could relate to some of her insecurities and fears, but not everything. I didn’t like Charlie and her inner dialogue. She was too quick to fall back into old bad habits. She read too much into words. She had an analytical way of viewing things taking everything so literal.
I was disappointed by Charlie being so wrapped up in her own fears that she hadn’t realized Sean too had issues of his own. She classified him as this untouchable person who had no problems because he was popular in school. I thought Sean was too clingy and over protective. I appreciated his friendship and intentions, but he was too much sometimes.
I was disappointed by Sean’s actions and his need for Charlie to calm him. That’s a heavy burden to place upon another individual especially when it’s something Sean should learn to control himself without relying on another.
Narrator:
Melissa Moran was the solo performer of all the characters. She brought these characters to life. Great performance by Melissa. In fact, I enjoyed the audiobook above and beyond the story. She enhanced my reading experience. Sound quality was fantastic with no outside disturbances.
Overall:
I didn’t like how much Charlie’s character questioned everything by over analyzing actions and behaviors. Her thoughts were insecure. I know that was the way her character was intentionally written, but it wore on my patience. She was too sensitive and I struggled to relate with her or understand her. She came across as narrow minded. I could relate to some of her insecurities and fears, but not everything. I didn’t like Charlie and her inner dialogue. She was too quick to fall back into old bad habits. She read too much into words. She had an analytical way of viewing things taking everything so literal.
I was disappointed by Charlie being so wrapped up in her own fears that she hadn’t realized Sean too had issues of his own. She classified him as this untouchable person who had no problems because he was popular in school. I thought Sean was too clingy and over protective. I appreciated his friendship and intentions, but he was too much sometimes.
I was disappointed by Sean’s actions and his need for Charlie to calm him. That’s a heavy burden to place upon another individual especially when it’s something Sean should learn to control himself without relying on another.
May 11, 2021
This book started off strong, I was really excited to start reading. Once I jumped in it was hard to put down. Charlie is just our normal everyday teen. She stays out of the spotlight and drama at high school. She tries to stay invisible. Then she gets attacked and after that nothing will ever be the same. In comes Sean our popular sports guy who saves her and from that point on these two are inseparable. As the story unfolds you just have to wonder why Sean is so captivated by Charlie. Something seems to be there, but what? We see who Charlie truly is at the end of the day as we keep reading on and seeing her open up yet, she overthinks a lot. Which sometimes is good and other times not as much. With some of the things going on the parents do seem oblivious to what is going on in their children's lives, but I guess in the real world that is how it is. There were some things that started giving me red flags as to how needy and over-protective Sean seems to be and I am hoping he grows out of it as we continue on with the storyline. It did not seem healthy. I do notice that this is part one so maybe we will see more in part two. I will say it was hard to believe a lot happened within two to three days. It seemed longer in my mind.
A few of my favorite quotes: "There is something insanely magical about getting your hair washed by someone else. I’m not joking. This reason alone is why there is so much gossip in beauty salons. Once the magic fingers begin massaging the scalp, the mouth opens, and words spill out."
“Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.” –Eleanor Roosevelt
“Believe not what others say, but rather what their actions say to you.” –Unknown
A few of my favorite quotes: "There is something insanely magical about getting your hair washed by someone else. I’m not joking. This reason alone is why there is so much gossip in beauty salons. Once the magic fingers begin massaging the scalp, the mouth opens, and words spill out."
“Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.” –Eleanor Roosevelt
“Believe not what others say, but rather what their actions say to you.” –Unknown
June 15, 2019
Wonderful Story & Audible Listen🎧
Becoming Charlie
Part One
By: Kristie Haigwood
Narrated by: Melissa Moran
Series: Becoming Charlie, Book 1
This is a wonderful, young adult, coming of age story that is great for any age. Kristie Haigwood is a talented author and skilled writer. The storylines she created are original and interesting, her prologue hooked me right into this story then held my attention to the very end. I just adored the lead characters, Charlie and Sean and how good they are for each other. It started with Sean rescuing Charlie but it may be that they rescue each other. I loved their story, it is realistic and relatable. I am looking forward to part two, I need to see where their story goes and what else will be revealed. The author does a great job dropping some underlying hints to make you wonder and think. She also does a great job capturing drama and angst of being a teenager, the bullying as well as family and peer pressure. Kristie Haigwood, thank you for this great story and the emotional rollercoaster ride.
I listened to the Audible edition, Melissa Moran is a wonderful narrator and voice performer. She brings the characters to life, gives each their own voice and personality. You can hear the emotions of the characters projected in her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen🎧
Becoming Charlie
Part One
By: Kristie Haigwood
Narrated by: Melissa Moran
Series: Becoming Charlie, Book 1
This is a wonderful, young adult, coming of age story that is great for any age. Kristie Haigwood is a talented author and skilled writer. The storylines she created are original and interesting, her prologue hooked me right into this story then held my attention to the very end. I just adored the lead characters, Charlie and Sean and how good they are for each other. It started with Sean rescuing Charlie but it may be that they rescue each other. I loved their story, it is realistic and relatable. I am looking forward to part two, I need to see where their story goes and what else will be revealed. The author does a great job dropping some underlying hints to make you wonder and think. She also does a great job capturing drama and angst of being a teenager, the bullying as well as family and peer pressure. Kristie Haigwood, thank you for this great story and the emotional rollercoaster ride.
I listened to the Audible edition, Melissa Moran is a wonderful narrator and voice performer. She brings the characters to life, gives each their own voice and personality. You can hear the emotions of the characters projected in her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen🎧
December 7, 2017
This story is from Charlie's POV , she is your average young teen girl, that unfortunately encounters many of the issues our young girls today encounter.
My daughter is 13, she and has gone through unimaginable obstacles that most hopefully never have to encounter. While dealing with our issues, Kristie turned me towards wattapad and her new ya series she started. Words cannot describe the gratitude I felt when my daughter took to reading Charlie's story and discussing it with me weekly. It opened our dialog up to be more than her issues and she even related to a few of Charlie and Sean's problems and brought more information to the table I never would of known about.
This is my 13 year olds favorite book at the moment.... And will forever be one of the most personally rewarding reads I have ever had. Thank you for making relatable characters that are dealing with real issues kids are facing and often times not discussing. Thank you for writing a captivating story that not only holds a 13 year olds interest but her mother's as well.
I hope to see your books integrated into the schools.... I hope so many amazing things for you. I bought the hard copy because this is a book I need to place in a shelf for generations to come to read.
My daughter is 13, she and has gone through unimaginable obstacles that most hopefully never have to encounter. While dealing with our issues, Kristie turned me towards wattapad and her new ya series she started. Words cannot describe the gratitude I felt when my daughter took to reading Charlie's story and discussing it with me weekly. It opened our dialog up to be more than her issues and she even related to a few of Charlie and Sean's problems and brought more information to the table I never would of known about.
This is my 13 year olds favorite book at the moment.... And will forever be one of the most personally rewarding reads I have ever had. Thank you for making relatable characters that are dealing with real issues kids are facing and often times not discussing. Thank you for writing a captivating story that not only holds a 13 year olds interest but her mother's as well.
I hope to see your books integrated into the schools.... I hope so many amazing things for you. I bought the hard copy because this is a book I need to place in a shelf for generations to come to read.
June 16, 2019
It's been a while since I read or listened to just any straight up YA stories. I think as we get older we tell ourselves that we've out grown YA. I am here to tell you though that this was one of the best books I've listened to this year. I want to thank the author for allowing me to listen for free in exchange for this honest review.
I instantly fell in love with Charlie and Sean. Both lead characters are complicated and layered but completely likable at the same time.
The story takes twist and turns that I can honestly say I didn't see coming. You know early on that they both have secrets that they are scared to share with the world let alone with each other but I didn't guess either one.
Their bond is swift and strong but doesn't feel at all out of place or forced. You truly buy into the idea that these are just two souls that needed each other and found the one person in this world that can both help them and still let each other be themselves completely when everyone else wants something from them or to change them.
There is a bit of a mystery and a cliffhanger at the end of Part 1 and I can't wait to get into Part 2 to see where this is going!
I instantly fell in love with Charlie and Sean. Both lead characters are complicated and layered but completely likable at the same time.
The story takes twist and turns that I can honestly say I didn't see coming. You know early on that they both have secrets that they are scared to share with the world let alone with each other but I didn't guess either one.
Their bond is swift and strong but doesn't feel at all out of place or forced. You truly buy into the idea that these are just two souls that needed each other and found the one person in this world that can both help them and still let each other be themselves completely when everyone else wants something from them or to change them.
There is a bit of a mystery and a cliffhanger at the end of Part 1 and I can't wait to get into Part 2 to see where this is going!
December 4, 2017
Such craftsmanship
Kristie has done it again! I fell in love with Charlie and Reese as Kristie wrote chapter by chapter on Wattpad. I REALLY enjoyed the editing and changes made.
Charlie is such a relatable character I feel like every teenage girl has been her at one point or another. I know I would have loved to be invincible at times and struggled to make and keep real friends.
Reese is such a game changer. He is fun, funny, protective, a bit possessive and forth coming. I had my moments with Reese where I felt he was too extra. Esp as a mom, I was worried for Charlie's mental health as Reese seems to put a lot of weight on her to keep him calm and solid.
Raven.. I want to read more about her. She is a fly by the seat of your pants, sharp tongue, no holds bared friend we ALL need. What a great relief Charlie needed when Sean becomes too much.
They area such an incredible duo and I look forward to their stories to come. I am extra interested in Sean's POV, I know his story is going to be epic.
Kristie has done it again! I fell in love with Charlie and Reese as Kristie wrote chapter by chapter on Wattpad. I REALLY enjoyed the editing and changes made.
Charlie is such a relatable character I feel like every teenage girl has been her at one point or another. I know I would have loved to be invincible at times and struggled to make and keep real friends.
Reese is such a game changer. He is fun, funny, protective, a bit possessive and forth coming. I had my moments with Reese where I felt he was too extra. Esp as a mom, I was worried for Charlie's mental health as Reese seems to put a lot of weight on her to keep him calm and solid.
Raven.. I want to read more about her. She is a fly by the seat of your pants, sharp tongue, no holds bared friend we ALL need. What a great relief Charlie needed when Sean becomes too much.
They area such an incredible duo and I look forward to their stories to come. I am extra interested in Sean's POV, I know his story is going to be epic.
May 16, 2019
So I may be a little bias, but I LOVED this book. I read an advanced copy a couple years back before it came out, and I didn’t really remember all that had happened, BUT I knew I loved it- so when I was given the opportunity to listen to it I jumped super quick.
Charlie is a tough character for me to talk about. I loved her, and she came across very real to me, but I also feel like I am her. .. just 14 years older! 👀 oops.
Anyways, I’m hoping in Part 2 she learns to love her self a little more. The growth she experienced through book one pleased my soul!
Sean Reese is total jail bait, but damn if he’s not a top contender for book boyfriend of the year. He’s a little messed up, but it works for him. I’m very curious to see what happens to him in book 2! Hopefully all things good!
Seriously though, if you haven’t read or listened to this book yet DO IT! Yes it’s Teen/YA- but it’s so darn good!
Charlie is a tough character for me to talk about. I loved her, and she came across very real to me, but I also feel like I am her. .. just 14 years older! 👀 oops.
Anyways, I’m hoping in Part 2 she learns to love her self a little more. The growth she experienced through book one pleased my soul!
Sean Reese is total jail bait, but damn if he’s not a top contender for book boyfriend of the year. He’s a little messed up, but it works for him. I’m very curious to see what happens to him in book 2! Hopefully all things good!
Seriously though, if you haven’t read or listened to this book yet DO IT! Yes it’s Teen/YA- but it’s so darn good!
December 19, 2017
BECOMING CHARLIE
"A 5 star wonderful read!"
"Such craftsmanship."
"Her first YA book is solid gold!"
"A Young Adult read so good even adults will love it!"
Charlie pulls at the heartstrings, being a person who can relate to when it comes to a mental aspect. I suffer from anxiety myself and the realness the character suffers is relatable. While you travel this journey with her you find your heart falling for Sean a boy who is lost in rage and hate and does all he can to hold on to the one piece of happiness he has found, Charlie. These two young people growing and finding there a way in life find each other the question is, are they really good for each other or are they just trying to grab at something familiar.
This is a must-read for all a book that is like no other out there right now and one that I think many will relate to!!!
"A 5 star wonderful read!"
"Such craftsmanship."
"Her first YA book is solid gold!"
"A Young Adult read so good even adults will love it!"
Charlie pulls at the heartstrings, being a person who can relate to when it comes to a mental aspect. I suffer from anxiety myself and the realness the character suffers is relatable. While you travel this journey with her you find your heart falling for Sean a boy who is lost in rage and hate and does all he can to hold on to the one piece of happiness he has found, Charlie. These two young people growing and finding there a way in life find each other the question is, are they really good for each other or are they just trying to grab at something familiar.
This is a must-read for all a book that is like no other out there right now and one that I think many will relate to!!!
January 11, 2018
"Learning How To Be Strong"
This is a story for young adults which is about a girl who thinks she is invisible to others. Not really invisible, but when one day she is saved by a very popular guy at Eden High School, her life is changed. Sean Reese gives her not only her life back, but also a caring, close friendship, one which she has never experienced. Will they still be friends if her secrets are revealed? Will she be surprised that Sean has similar secrets, too? This novel is about bullying, body shaming, and anger as narrated by Charlie herself. This story is very engrossing and worthy. Youth may gain knowledge of their own experiences of how to handle them. Very well written and easy to read. Highly recommend.
This is a story for young adults which is about a girl who thinks she is invisible to others. Not really invisible, but when one day she is saved by a very popular guy at Eden High School, her life is changed. Sean Reese gives her not only her life back, but also a caring, close friendship, one which she has never experienced. Will they still be friends if her secrets are revealed? Will she be surprised that Sean has similar secrets, too? This novel is about bullying, body shaming, and anger as narrated by Charlie herself. This story is very engrossing and worthy. Youth may gain knowledge of their own experiences of how to handle them. Very well written and easy to read. Highly recommend.
March 12, 2018
I loved it. The journey that Charlie and Sean start after she was bullied by some of the "popular" kids of her school, it's one to cherish. They became best friends, no doubt of it, and it changed Charlie's life completely.
It's not only a sweet story about 2 friends, it's also a tool to open the eyes of all those girls that think being invisible will make them go through high school easier. Sean shows to Charlie that is not the best way and that she will regret a lot of things when she's older. He helps her to discover herself, to regain a part of her life that was lost and to become the girl that she always wanted to be even when she didn't know she wanted it.
I'm currently reading the part 2 in wattpad, and waiting the full release to complete this beautiful story.
It's not only a sweet story about 2 friends, it's also a tool to open the eyes of all those girls that think being invisible will make them go through high school easier. Sean shows to Charlie that is not the best way and that she will regret a lot of things when she's older. He helps her to discover herself, to regain a part of her life that was lost and to become the girl that she always wanted to be even when she didn't know she wanted it.
I'm currently reading the part 2 in wattpad, and waiting the full release to complete this beautiful story.
June 14, 2018
This book was awesome. I know a lot of people can relate to Charlie's character. She worked so hard to not be noticed. Her self-imposed prison is challenged by Shawn, the most popular guy in school. Their relationship is so adorable as well as challenging. I loved the solidity of the story and the fabulous characters. True quality writing and a wonderful story teller. The narrator was awesome as well. She brought life to the story and relayed the individual personalities perfectly. So looking forward to a continuation of Charlie and Shawn. ps The cover picture is beautiful and perfect.
May 21, 2019
Charlie is an introvert who wants to be invisible to all those around her. Sean is a popular student who rescues her. They've never met before, but he decides that she is to be his best friend. He helps bring her out of her shell, & she helps him deal with his "demons".
This story is a great coming of age story. You will laugh & you will cry. Anyone that remembers just what it's like to be a teenager that doesn't quite fit in, can empathize with what Charlie is going thru. A true friend is hard to find, but Charlie & Sean are exactly that & make a cute couple.
You HAVE to put this one on your TBR or in your Audible library.
This story is a great coming of age story. You will laugh & you will cry. Anyone that remembers just what it's like to be a teenager that doesn't quite fit in, can empathize with what Charlie is going thru. A true friend is hard to find, but Charlie & Sean are exactly that & make a cute couple.
You HAVE to put this one on your TBR or in your Audible library.
December 28, 2018
Although this is supposed to be a young adult book, I absolutely LOVED it. So much so that although I started reading this as she was writing it on wattpad I had to buy it for myself, as I know I’m going to want to re read this one for sure!
K.S Haigwood’s characters in this book are so real. It’s as if I’m reading about my kids friends instead of someone living inside her/our heads! But she left me on a cliffhanger, argh, as much as sthat drives me insane, I absolutely have to know more and CANNOT wait for the next instalment! Sooo many questions need answering!!!!!
K.S Haigwood’s characters in this book are so real. It’s as if I’m reading about my kids friends instead of someone living inside her/our heads! But she left me on a cliffhanger, argh, as much as sthat drives me insane, I absolutely have to know more and CANNOT wait for the next instalment! Sooo many questions need answering!!!!!
August 29, 2018
Oh Charlie <3
Everyone can relate to how Charlie feels at least once, if not a majority, of their life. it feels like you're going through all of the emotions and activists with her. This book is so adorable you can't help but laugh, smile at your phone/ kindle/ tablet like a fool and get teary eyed at the sad parts. The banter, the jokes, the entire book makes you feel like you just lived it (I'm not ashamed of dreamt about the book last night). Considering I read/ listened to this and the second part on wattpad in 24 hours should tell you how I couldn't put it down.
Everyone can relate to how Charlie feels at least once, if not a majority, of their life. it feels like you're going through all of the emotions and activists with her. This book is so adorable you can't help but laugh, smile at your phone/ kindle/ tablet like a fool and get teary eyed at the sad parts. The banter, the jokes, the entire book makes you feel like you just lived it (I'm not ashamed of dreamt about the book last night). Considering I read/ listened to this and the second part on wattpad in 24 hours should tell you how I couldn't put it down.
August 15, 2019
While this story had a lot less action than I'm used to, it was still fast paced and interesting.
It was great seeing the friendship between Charlie and Sean bloom. He had a great way of bringing Charlie out of her shell. They have such a strong bond and mutual need for one another.
The friendships formed in this book, not only between Charlie and Sean, were fun to see. I really spent 90% of the book smiling. And, I loved that the author made it a TRUE teen/young adult read.
The narrator was perfect for this book. Looking forward to reading part two!
It was great seeing the friendship between Charlie and Sean bloom. He had a great way of bringing Charlie out of her shell. They have such a strong bond and mutual need for one another.
The friendships formed in this book, not only between Charlie and Sean, were fun to see. I really spent 90% of the book smiling. And, I loved that the author made it a TRUE teen/young adult read.
The narrator was perfect for this book. Looking forward to reading part two!
December 6, 2017
I absolutely loved Becoming Charlie Part One. This story line had a very nice flow. I could totally relate to the characters, especially Charlie herself. Kristie Haigwood wrote this in such a way you feel like you were back in high school among all the mean girls, bullies, jocks, etc. It pulls at your heartstrings. I could not put it down until I was done and left me wanting for more. I am so glad there will be a Part Two. I can not get enough of Charlie and Sean.
July 15, 2019
Having listened to most of Kristie’s books all PN, I jumped at the chance to listen to this book. It was a pleasant surprise to listen to this YA, coming of age, self discovery story.
There are so many facets in this story, so many emotions to feel, laughter, joy, sadness, there are twists/turns, ups and downs in this budding friendship/love story. Melissa Moran is the narrator who tells us Charlie and Sean’s story.
There are so many facets in this story, so many emotions to feel, laughter, joy, sadness, there are twists/turns, ups and downs in this budding friendship/love story. Melissa Moran is the narrator who tells us Charlie and Sean’s story.
December 30, 2023
The guy in it comes across as super creepy with loads of red flags and a condition that quite frankly screams domestic violence in your future girl!!/he’s going to jail/hes going to loose his job or scholarship. Then there’s a twist and it’s sort of ok but I couldn’t help thinking that things would not go well if this was real life and it kept me from getting into the story. Second book was so much drama I was rolling my eyes.
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