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Gem City #1

What Comes of Eating Doughnuts With a Boy Who Plays Guitar

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Courtney Ross has always done everything by the book. She’s a top student, captain of the cheer squad at Scottsdale High School, and a nervous wreck most of the time. For summer vacation before senior year, she finally has a chance to spending the holidays with her best friend Vanessa, in her tiny hometown of Gem City, Ohio. Courtney’s hoping for a chance to breathe and relax. What she doesn’t expect is Ethan Fisher. Courtney knows she’s in trouble the minute she sees him holding a guitar at her Welcome Back party, and the more she gets to know him, the more she finds her head spinning. What will this mean for the girl who always plays by the rules? ★★★★★ - "Skillfully portrays the innocence and excitement of first love. Courtney and Ethan have great chemistry. I can't wait to read the next book." ★★★★★ - "Loved this book so much. One of my favorites this year."

274 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 17, 2015

55 people are currently reading
674 people want to read

About the author

Nicole Campbell

13 books124 followers
I tell stories that make me feel like I'm not the only one who thinks the world is a crazy, scary, beautiful place. I hope that my readers feel it too. I also love doughnuts. Too much, in fact. And 90s music and my husband and my son and my feisty little dog :). Do drop me a line here or on social media- I love to talk books.

@nicolecampbellbooks on IG


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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
Profile Image for T S.
258 reviews5 followers
March 27, 2016
Holy confetti and 5 sprinkle covered doughnuts !!!
Cover : Eye candy.
Story : Brain Candy.
Over all : Delicious.
Spoiler Alert : I loved it.

The first thing I'd like to say is : Sweetness! This book made me blush, and I never ever ever do that. Here, I got all pink in the face. Not only that : this book gave me a plethora of feels. Courtney was a very congenial protagonist, and I found her immensely relatable.
A person will only cry/laugh along with a character when s/he gets attached to that character, and boy! Did I got attach to Courtney, whenever she cried - I cried. She laughed - I laughed.
Wcofdwabwg was the perfect ya read, with characters that made me giggle, laugh, smile like crazy, and sob openly.
Moving on to Ethan. Aah *sigh*
Who doesn't likes a guy who plays guitar, writes songs and in addition to it : bring doughnuts for you? I loved him from the start, but then the first 25 chapters felt too good to be true, that : things started to feel kind of ominous. I was wishing for things to go down in flames for Courtney and Ethan. I am kind of glad because that happened, otherwise the whole thing would have been way too cheesy. So that added a bittersweet tinge to the story, I am satisfied nonetheless.
I didn't liked what Ethan did, but then I am not letting his abominable behavior affect my rating, 'cause I have to read book 2 where Ethan's behaviour will be explained, and I am not really in the place to judge when things are still unknown to me. So that's that.
Some people might find the dialogues a bit hackneyed, but then again I am not in the position to judge or complain because that's really how teenagers talk these days. So all clear there.
The characters were really likeable. I had so much fun reading about au courant Vanessa, Luke, and Courtney's mom is the coolest fictional mom EVER!
I am a very girly-girl so I have to add this : the dresses described were so perfect (especially the maxi dress!) *dreamy look* and Courtney liking glitter, sprinkles and all made me ridiculously happy, because yeah, I am into that type of stuff. Also, when I came to know about the significance of Courtney's thumb ring (you can see it on the cover) I thought it was the cutest thing ever.
If you are 16+ then pick this book up, I am telling you. Good stuff :). I highly recommend this book to romance lovers, you'll be in for a very delicious treat, and yes, doughnuts will be served ;)
Profile Image for Dianne.
6,815 reviews632 followers
December 27, 2015
Courtney has always followed the rules, toed the line and it has gotten her great grades, the head of the cheerleading squad and a feeling of always being under the gun to good, make her family proud. It’s time for a little “Courtney-be-a-kid and enjoy life time!” Little did she know that going back to her Ohio hometown to spend the summer with her best friend would become the starting point of love and dreams of a life with Ethan Fisher, musician, ladies’ man and from first glance, his own biggest fan! Just call him Mr. Self-Confidence, Mr. Self-Assured and Mr. Amazingly Hot!

Is Courtney up for the challenge he represents or will she lose her heart to a teen who is so much more than the world knows? Under his manwhore façade is a caring boy who remembers the little things, and finds ways to make Courtney forget her old worries while carving out a place in her heart. Courtney knew she has found the real deal when he even brought her doughnuts! But did they ever consider what would happen when Courtney went back to Scottsdale and they would be separated by miles, states and time zones?

Nicole Campbell’s What Comes of Eating Doughnuts With a Boy Who Plays Guitar? not only has a quirky title that leaves all avenues of interpretation open, but it sets the tone for a sweet romance that is filled with high energy flirting, moments of quiet togetherness and a few twisted misunderstandings that will wrinkle the fabric of Courtney and Ethan’s young love.

Follow their story through the eyes and heart of Courtney who recognizes how much Ethan has changed her, helped her see herself in a different light and caused her to question the straight and narrow path she has made for herself. Courtney has her share of teen angst and insecurity, but she believes in love, that it can go the distance if it is true. Ethan is “that guy,” the one teen girls dream of finding, with a hidden, vulnerable side just for Courtney. Get ready for a cast of great characters, upbeat moments, realistic moments as well as that feeling you are re-living your own teen years.

Sit back, reminisce of days gone, relate to days of the present or dream of the days of your future. No matter your angle, enjoy the ride, the ups and downs and the feeling of the power of youthful love as it begins cementing the foundation for more to come.

I received this copy from Nicole Campbell in exchange for my honest review.

Publisher: Nicole Campbell
Publication Date: June 17, 2015
Genre: Older YA Romance | Coming of Age
Print Length: 222 pages
Available from: AmazonBarnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

Profile Image for Cody.
204 reviews629 followers
August 6, 2015
This was gorgeous, so sweet and absolute perfection for YA Contemporary Romance fans!

First off let me just confess my total love of the title: What Comes of Eating Doughnuts With a Boy who Plays Guitar.. Seriously? Could this be anymore amazing and I also adore the cover. This book perfectly captured what it’s like to be 17 again and experiencing your first love.

After coming off reading An Ember in the Ashes I’d say I wasn’t exactly depressed but was in serious need of a pick me up, this book did just that more. In short this book is enjoyable, exciting and just so much fun to read.

We start with Courtney a cheerleader who nearly entering her senior year and has some big decisions to make; will she leave her family and friends to attend college away from home? For some this sounds exciting but for Courtney it would also be a nightmare being the introvert that she is. So before setting anything in stone she’s travelling to Ohio to spend her summer with her best friend Vanessa. She hoping for a carefree, relaxing summer before college.. that is until she meets Ethan Fisher.

I must talk about the characters because for once there wasn’t a single one I didn’t like, which is quite rare for me. Courtney is so sweet and shy but what I loved most about her was when she gained some confidence she was able to put her smart mouth to use. Vanessa is super fun and full of confidence and always brings out the best of Courtney, which she totally needs. Ethan you say? Oh Ethan was perfect, he wasn’t your typical bad boy full of arrogance and quick witted, don’t get me wrong I looove bad boys this wouldn’t have been a bad thing for me but Ethan was such a good guy; always thoughtful and caring and yes totally swoon-worthy who could serenade you with his guitar, bring you doughnuts? Has rocking abs!!! Absolute perfection!

So essentially this about young love, your first love that is so meaning and full of lust, infatuation and the feeling that nothing can go wrong. The romance is perfectly written and brings back so many memories of being 17 again, some good some bad but I was really able to connect with the characters and it didn’t take me long to get into this story, I was completely hooked and couldn’t put it down. Soon Courtney’s four weeks in Ohio are up and she and Ethan are left to answer a dreaded question; long distance relationship or not? will this work or not?

For those of you who like a little twist in your reads or maybe some action then I wouldn’t recommend this book. This is all about the romance and the decisions Courtney & Ethan make. However for those of you who love a good, simple heartfelt romance that’s sure to make you reminisce of being young a love then this is definitely for you. I can’t wait for the next book in this series as the ending left me wanting more!!

Literary-ly Obsessed
Profile Image for Claire - The Coffeeholic Bookworm.
1,257 reviews109 followers
October 5, 2015
Who could forget their first loves? I did for a time actually, I chose to forget him because of the pain that came in the end, but fortunately, it's all water under the bridge now.

Until I read What Comes of Eating Doughnuts With a Boy Who Plays Guitar. I loved this book so much. Can I just say that the title itself played a really big role in my younger heart?

In this YA novel by Nicole Campbell, I was transported back to my younger years when I first fell for a guy who played the guitar. Heaven knew how much I loved watching him strum his guitar and serenaded me whenever we had time together. And where else did we often rendezvous? In the Dunkin' Donuts shop near our school. So yes, I am the girl who loved eating doughnuts with a boy that played the guitar. <> teehee..

Anyway, back to the book, Courtney Ross thought she deserved a break before she finally reached senior year. When Vanessa threw her a party, Courtney met band member Ethan Fisher and sparks flew. Their love for songs and peculiar taste in music drew them together, until they both fell in love helplessly with each other. Add to their mix are their closest friends, Vanessa and Luke whom you'll be pining and cursing and brooding all throughout the book.

But there was also Ben. The anchor. The pillar. The stone. That someone Courtney could always rely on.

Never have I ever wished for Ben to disappear and destroy that beautiful scene I've imagined for Courtney & Ethan. I mean, it wasn't supposed to be like that, Ethan and Courtney were supposed to be two parts of a whole. They were supposed to be together. Yes, the end part of this story was what really gutted me. Cut like a knife, straight to my heart, pierced it through and through. A hint of hope is what I yearn right now.

Once again, I'm telling you, this had been a really satisfying book and I love it, the more I read it. This is probably one of my favorite books this year! I just love this feeling that takes away decades from my age and makes me feel like 17 again.
Profile Image for Cassandra (Thebookishcrypt).
589 reviews58 followers
November 1, 2015
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
4.5 stars!

This was the first book I have read by Nicole and it was an amazing surprise! I thought the dialogue was a little too hyper at the beginning but once the story started progressing I didn't mind it at all. It's just how the characters are and I grew to appreciate their long dialogue. They were victims of the 'like' syndrome but to be fair, that's how teens talk so I let it go too. I loved how there were song titles at the beginning of each chapter that suited what I was about to read.
This was THE perfect YA romance. Anybody that has had a long distance relationship as a teen (like myself) can automatically relate to the main character, Courtney. Cue in Ethan, 18 year old boy who's in a band and friends with Courtney's best friend. I found myself cheering loudly at his adorableness and tearing up at all the bad parts between those two. There was drama, heartbreak, happy tears, and all that good teen stuff. This book definitely transported me back a few years. I loved it!
I would've liked to see more of Ben, Courtney's long time friend, from the beginning but that's just a call for more drama lol.
The only bad thing I have to say about this is that it was a case of insta-love but Ethan sucked me right in so I didn't mind. He is just so amazing, considerate, thoughtful, in a band!, hilarious, flirty, and all that good stuff. Too bad he's 18 or else I would definitely add him to my book boyfriends list!! Those two stole and invaded my heart more than I thought possible. The ending was so darn bittersweet... I swear, if I didn't already have book two in my hands, I would be going crazy! Especially since it's in Ethan's perspective. I am so freaking excited to get into his head, you guys don't even know!!
Profile Image for Ashley Daviau.
2,264 reviews1,061 followers
January 16, 2016
I want to start this review by stating that I won a copy of this book in a giveaway hosted by the author on Instagram and this in no way affects my review.

I enjoyed this book so much! The main character Courtney, reminds me so much if myself at 17-18, it's crazy! There were times I was reading and it's like the author had plucked the thoughts right from my head! I felt such a range of emotions while reading this. I laughed out loud (the pillow case story on page 53 is hilarious lol), I cried, I wanted to throw the book across the room at some times because boys can be so stupid, UGH! All in all an excellent story, kept me turning the pages and I can't wait to pick up the second book!

Oh! I loooove the song titles at the beginning of each chapter, some of them brought back a lot of memories! And that Harry Potter reference on page 91!!! Always. <3
Profile Image for Sage Nestler.
Author 8 books117 followers
May 31, 2016
Nicole Campbell is a beautiful author. First of all, I absolutely loved the title of this book even though it is quite long. It just added a unique spice to the story that she created, and I felt that her writing transported me back to my high school days and the childlike wonder that comes with being a young adult. I enjoyed how her novel followed a girl who is trying to come out of her shell and ends up falling in love. I am a strong believer that young love can mold and shape you, and Campbell portrayed this perfectly in her novel.

One of the most unique aspects that Campbell included in her novel were songs linked to each chapter. She herself has a YouTube channel that contains all of the songs that she linked to each chapter, and I think that the songs did help to visualize the story better. I think that this novel is perfect for the older young adult crowd, and for those who are ready to move on from the younger young adult scene. Her writing reminds me of the great Sarah Dessen, and I admire how well she grasps the age range of her characters and her audience. She writes with ease, and I ate up her novel very quickly.

If you are looking for a novel to present to older young adults, or to read yourself, then this is the one for you. It is one of those sweet novels that I love to read on vacation because of its simple attitude, and it was nice reading a contemporary novel that is so realistic and relatable in the way that the characters weren't perfect or too far fetched for the reader to relate with. I think that this book will allow readers to not feel so alone, and a book like this is the best companion for lonely nights.
Profile Image for Alice Rachel.
Author 21 books275 followers
March 4, 2017
OMG I loved this book!!!!

It made me want to be a teenager again, back when things were fun. Ahah

I loved Ethan, all the while wanting to hit him on the head.
I loved how Courtney stood up for herself.
I loved how respectful the relationship was.
I loved how Ashley reacted to Ethan.
I loved the fun dialogues.
I loved how warm this made my heart feel.
I was deeply entertained and then sad, and Ben was so cute!

Read this for a sweet, heartwarming YA read!

Thank goodness I already own the sequel!

I know the synopsis says the book has situations and language, but it's really mild for YA so don't be afraid to read it. : ) I love that it has a warning though, it just shows how respectful the author is to her readers.

Looooooooooove this book!
Profile Image for Dahabo.
394 reviews22 followers
February 28, 2016
Rating: 5/5 contemporary romance stars! <3 or should I say doughnuts seeing ad it's more fitting!

I adored this book! It had the right amount of cuteness, sarcasm from every character, hot dudes galore and most importantly it was great to read after my fantasy high!
First of all...ETHAN! Oh. My. God. I'm in love. He plays guitar, he's smoking hot, his smirks have me giggling like a school girl (which I am actually!) and he is one smooth flirtatious guy! I fell in love the moment we met him and I was shipping him with Courtney...still am, so I better get this ship sailing in the second book, Nicole! Also, I love the ring he gifts to Courtney...I need someone like Ethan
Courtney: This girl is your typical good girl, quiet, keeps to herself...until the summer in Ohio where she meets hot, fun Ethan. She went under so much character development and she's so relateable because I'd rather read instead of go to a party...and she'd rather not go to a party too...until certain circumstances happen and she becomes adventurous and mature and just AVSKSJSH I loved her. it's been a while since I've read a contemporary and this was a great one. But this review is not ending on this note...oh no. How could I forget about the side characters?
Vanessa: epic friend, funny, amazing & so supportive and sweet! I loved her and Courtneys interactions so freaking much!
But I need answers...like what happened with her and her douche first boyfriend? :/
Luke: sweet, hot & King of Bad Timing. Just read it and see :)
The plot was something I didn't expect...everything was going great, then summer ends & Court goes home and then she visits 2 months later for a weekend and then leaves after an epic time with Ethan and...everything went to shit. Like I sat there feeling so sad and frustrated because I knew what was to come...then.... (SPOILERS) the break up. I felt as zombie like as Courtney...maybe even more so...it got worse...and worse...and nd then things started to look up with Ben...i mean...he's nice so there's that...but still my otp...MY OTP MUST SAIL <3 <3

All in all...i adored that Epilogue...ALAS ME NEED MORE! I NEED IT LIKE AIR :DDD
Profile Image for Marynold.
100 reviews16 followers
June 9, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry and make you feel all the feels then you should definitely read this.

I just want to say that I love this book and I think that this is the perfect contemporary read. The reason that I gave this book 4 stars is because I think there's something missing. I know the story flowed really well but I want more! I want more Courtney and Ethan, I want more romance and action. I feel like Ethan and Courtney instantly fell in love with each other and they also ended their relationship abruptly. I feel like if they're really in love with each other they should have fought harder for their relationship and they should not have resorted to finding someone else after their relationship was over. Though I totally get that they are teenagers so I guess that excuses their behavior. I'm really happy that they sort of had a second chance meeting then maybe their relationship would be mature enough the second time around.

I love V and Luke's relationship, I love how they banter and act around each other, their relationship feels like a real relationship not something out of a fairy tale. I also love Courtney's mom, she's one of the 'coolest' mom that I've ever read and I love how she treats her daughter.

I also love the author's writing syle, it was really good! I related with the characters really well. I loved every single minute while reading this book. I was laughing, crying and falling in love together with the characters. I also think that she created very realistic characters (although I doubt that I'll find an Ethan Fisher soon).

Overall this book was really good! It has swoon worthy book boyfriends, romance, friendship and laugh out loud moments and drama that will surely keep you at the edge of your seat. I cannot emphasize how much you need to read this! You must definitely pick this book up and prepare to feel all the feels.
Profile Image for Kirstin.
9 reviews
July 1, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

I give this book a 4.5. While I couldn't find anything I disliked about the book it just lacked that wow factor. This book was a sweet, fun, fast, YA appropriate read. I laughed and cried with the characters.
Meet some of the characters:
Courtney is shy, smart, usually covered in sparkles and always second guessing herself. However, as the story goes on, and with a lot of help from her friends, she begins to open up and becomes more outgoing.
Vanessa is the best friend every shy girl wants. She is spunky, fun, super outgoing, sassy and overall just the ultimate friend!
Ethan is... Well he plays a guiter. Enough said right? (;
Luke is Vanessa's other half. They are just so darn cute ! He is funny and has the worst timing ever!
Ben is the sweetheart. He is patient and super adorable.
I did like how it wasn't like most contemporary books I've read. It will most definitely leave you wanting more! The playlist was a very nice touch! Music lovers will love this book! If you are looking for a good contemporary book look no further!!!
Profile Image for Melinda.
403 reviews40 followers
July 14, 2015
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.

What Comes of Eating Doughnuts With a Boy Who Plays Guitar is such an adorable story that I really enjoyed reading. I absolutely can't wait for the next book to come out now.

Reasons why you should pick up this book.

1) Courtney. This story was such an eye-opening and crazy adventure for her and I loved seeing her do things outside of her comfort zone. Also, her transformation from the beginning of the story to the end was such a beautiful thing to experience

2) Ethan. He's a guitar player so that's pretty much enough said ;)


3) Vanessa. She's sassy, outgoing, and is such an amazing best friend to Courtney. She's the one that tells Ethan all about Courtney before they even meet and that is just too cute.

4) Ben. He's an absolute sweetheart.

5) Lucas. He's Vanessa's boyfriend and their relationship is seriously just off-the-charts awesome. They are truly meant to be.

Profile Image for Sandra.
145 reviews5 followers
July 7, 2017
I was sent a copy of this novel by the author in exchange for an honest review!

This novel is the perfect summer contemporary! It had me hooked from page one and I could not put it down! I fell in love with every single character, they became my friends and the love interest had me head over heels. The author took me back to my high school summer days, when I would go out with all my friend and falling in love for the first time oh, those were the days. I loved the authors writing, especially when it comes to character development.

Courtney has always been one to follow the rules, she’s top of her class and captain of her cheer-leading squad, but this summer she is going to be spending it with her best friend Vanessa in her hometown Gem City and Vanessa loves to push Courtney out of her comfort zone. I absolutely loved Courtney, she was such a relatable character and I just saw so much of myself in her. I was always the shy friend who had to be pushed to do fun things, still to this day I overthink everything. Courtney’s development throughout the book is phenomenal! She stops holding back, overthinking and decided to just have fun this summer. Ethan is our love interest and gosh, do I love this man! He was sooo swoon worthy, but of course like any real guy, he has his flaws and I loved that about him; it made him feel real! I fell in love with all the characters including Vanessa and her boyfriend, Luke! I cannot wait to read more about those two.

The ending broke me! I was sobbing so much I had to stop and take a breather, I was so happy I had the next book! The authors writing flows so well and she hooks you from the first chapter! This novel made me laugh, cry and reminisce about my old summer days; I can’t wait to devour more of her novels. I also absolutely loved how in the header of each chapter there is a song title. I decided halfway through the book to look up the playlist the author has for her novel and gosh, I was so happy I decided to listen it to it while I read! It was such a whole new experience, and took the book to a whole new level for me. This novel also helped me get over a horrible reading slump, after trying several other books I might add. I recommend this to anyone looking for a summer contemporary!

SandraTheBookWorm
Profile Image for Doug Simpson.
Author 28 books20 followers
July 31, 2019
A Sweet Teen Romance
Courtney’s family moved her from Ohio to Arizona after she completed the sixth grade but she stayed in touch with her best, grade school friend, Vanessa. Before going into their senior year of high school, Courtney spent a month at Vanessa’s home during summer vacation. Vanessa introduced her to a good friend of hers, Ethan, and over the month they fell in love. Courtney accepted Ethan’s ring and they agreed they would be true to each other in a long-distance relationship, with a few hopeful visits over the school year. Little did they realize how difficult this would be. Definitely a great story for readers of all ages.
Profile Image for Kristian.
10 reviews4 followers
October 21, 2015
*I received a copy of the book in exchange for honest review.
A light read that'll make you swoon like it's your first time falling in love.
"What Comes of Eating Doughnuts with Boy who Plays Guitar" will appeal the readers of Jennifer E. Smith and Stephanie Perkins.
I didn't expect much from the book. Well, I actually don't really expect anything from romantic novels, I just let the story suck me in and wait for that single moment where the author will throw all the heartwarming and even heart-wrenching moments.

When I read romance novels, I put away all my expectations and let myself focus on the feelings that the book aims for you to feel. That's why I love YA romances/contemporaries, that's what makes romantic novels interesting, their adversity gives you something more than you could've expected, it provides feelings that you either experienced before or feelings that you wanted to experience all over again. "Doughnuts" did that to me. It made me feel that soothing and tingling sensation of how people fall in love for the first time.

Campbell proved that a novel doesn't have to contain much of a plot twist to make things interesting. She used her characters to make the novel relatable.

"the struggle of being an introvert"

Courtney is an introvert, top student cheerleader who struggles when it comes to facing social situations. She somewhat strives to engage herself into interacting with people around her by simply joining the Cheering Squad.

One thing I noticed about Courtney is that one of the reasons of her social anxiety was the fact that she speaks what's on her mind, which she avoids for people might find her thoughts and words bizarre.

Remember when we were young and fully attached to something, whether a stuffed toy or a pillow and called them comfort toys, that's how Courtney treats her Cheer uniform, something that feels like home, something that makes her comfortable with her own skin.

Aside from her cheer uniform there are few people that Courtney's comfortable with, her mom and Vanessa, her best friend who lives in her former town, Gem City, Ohio.

Gem City, Ohio was her home, and going back for a break makes Courtney relinquish the stress that Scottsdale brought to her life. Scottsdale is her new home, but deep down Courtney believed that Gem City will always be that place where she'll absolutely feel at home.

Courtney decided to spend the summer vacation before her senior year starts with Vanessa, her extrovert and outgoing friend who somehow mastered the art of effectively throwing a party. Vanessa and her boyfriend, Luke threw a homecoming party for Courtney, where she met *drum rolls* Ethan. A handsome potterhead who plays guitar. Courtney and Ethan instantly found their connection, from the music they listen to, to the simple things like their love for Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, and little stuff like the constant use of The Lord of the Rings to describe each other.

As the summer progresses, Vanessa dragged Courtney to a once in a lifetime summer adventure. And this summer is far more exciting for Courtney as her affection for Ethan grows. To Courtney, Ethan were her new found cheer uniform, she's not only comfortable to speak what's on her mind even when Ethan's around but Ethan brings the best out of her. The confidence she struggled to find before.

For every single moment with Ethan, Courtney slowly discovers something about him. Courtney figured that she can't consider what she's feeling as love, but she's certain that a spark had been ignited, and sparks can create flame. Ethan felt the same towards Courtney, he felt the same sense of familiarity and belongingness whenever she's around, like they've already met before, like they were soul-mates and the moment they met was a long awaited time that a soul collides to its other half.

Will it be just a summer romance or is it the start of a long driven love?

This perfect retelling of how people fall in love will appeal the readers of Jennifer Smith and Stephanie Perkins. What Comes of Eating Doughnuts with a Boy who Plays Guitar is a light read that will remind us how it feels to love and be loved. This book will remind us how we tried to keep ourselves away from love, but went towards it anyway. Readers will find this book as riveting and honest. Not only it's perfect for summer reads but it'll drag you away from whatever season it is in your place to the nostalgic summer you'll ever have.

Things I Noticed:
The progress of the book was quite slow which helps the reader understand Courtney's personality as well as how she perceive the world.

The main character, Courtney is the type of girl I'd love to spend a day with. Not only she speaks her mind, but her ideas were worth sharing. Though she's struggling to find her own source of confidence, what makes her more interesting was that she never cease to grow, she constantly discover something new from herself and she's aware of it. She's capable of self-transcendence.

Campbell's characters are smart-mouthed, which made every dialog for every single scene interesting.

Nicole Campbell's writing is very descriptive that even I felt the senses that the characters have felt. This is one of the things I look for when reading a book. The feeling of belongingness, where every character represents every pieces of who you are and I found it to Courtney, Ethan, Vanessa and Courtney's mom.
Profile Image for Silver Marie.
22 reviews
March 7, 2019
Nostalgic

Aaah the awkwardness of teen romance. This book does take me back... Some moments sweet.. Others cringey/cringy ... All the impressionistic views of youth
Profile Image for Eeva.
854 reviews48 followers
March 17, 2016
I was in desperate need of contemporary YA book and I got what I asked for.
It's pretty predictable (hence no 5 stars - HENCE, you see what I did here, wink wink) but very cute and enjoyable read.
Ethan will make your heart melt, he will make you swoon and drool a bit. He will make you crave... ummm.. doughnuts, of course ;-) Let's be honest, who doesn't love a boy who plays guitar!? I know, I do.

description

Courtney is a likable protagonist and I liked her. All of the drama could be avoided if she wasn't that insecure and if she just let him explain without jumping to conclusions and projecting her fears and insecurities on him.
Yes, I know that without the drama the book wouldn't be as good and the characters wouldn't have the chance to grow etc. On intellectual level I totally get it, but on emotional I'm just so pissed with Courtney! She was also getting on my nerves sometimes but I liked how she matured at the end. The epilogue was heart warming and gave me hope.

description

I liked Vanessa and Luke and I can't wait to hear more of them. they seem perfect for eachother.
The mum! Yes! Finally the parent is present in the book. In most YA novels the parents are mentioned at the beginning but then they conveniently disappear. I liked how they all had curfews (like real teenagers!), more than only one friend, hobbies and life outside relationships.

description

If you know me at all then you know that insta-love bothers me, and it bothered me a bit in this book too. I mean, I get lust and infatuation. You can be "in-like" with somebody after 4 weeks, but not "in-love". It's not realistic at all. You can't love someone without seeing the best or worst of them. You just can't and nothing and no one will convince me otherwise (hence only 4 stars). "I love you" aftes 5 seconds makes me roll my eyes, not swoon.

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I'm not sure if my 4 stars are full 4 stars. Let's say I'm giving this book 3,8, ok? There are few thing that bothered me, as I told you, but overall it's a sweet, coming of age story. I'm totally recommending it!

P.s. What's up with all those ridiculously long titles lately? Is that some kind of new trend? It's not that I didn't like this particular title, but's it's so damn inconvenient to pronounce when talking about this book with friends!
Profile Image for Kendall.
18 reviews
March 2, 2016
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.

It is not very often that I find a contemporary that I really love. I usually find it hard to stomach the insta-love that comes with so many contemporaries. However, I found myself in need of a change from my normal reads. Something with a bit more sunshine, and a little less melancholy.

What drew me to choose this one was honestly the title. It was just so quirky and I just had to see what exactly came from eating doughnuts with a boy who plays guitar. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. When I started this book it was as I was laying down to go to sleep after a long and exhausting overnight shift at work. Big. Mistake. The moment I started it, there was no way I could put it down enough to get any sleep and be able to function on a second overnight shift. I just could not get enough.

This is such a great, adorable story that just sucks you in. It's not overly complex, or hard to swallow. The "insta-love" is actually easy to handle and not cavity-inducing. It is the simple story of a teenage first love/summer fling.

It is very realistic in that the first taste of love is intense and life changing. Also that teenaged love is difficult to navigate especially when you're 1,800 miles apart. It was so beautifully done. I felt as though I were connected to the characters falling in love as Courtney and Ethan fell in love. The words on the pages (or in my case Kindle) came to life and as their hearts raced so did mine. As their hearts broke, mine broke with them.

Something unique that I loved about this story, was that Nicole Campbell made a playlist to listen to as you read the story. Listening to the playlist with the story, brought it to life and added something extra to the experience. It was so beautiful, and all of the songs were perfect. They added so much more to the story, a deeper meaning, and made it that much easier to connect with the tale.

It is safe to say I have added a new favorite author to my growing list. I finished this book in about a day, and part of me wishes I hadn't because I didn't want it to end. I cannot wait to purchase the entire series and see what happens next in Gem City!
Profile Image for Kaylin Beach.
161 reviews11 followers
June 28, 2016
"Waaaaiiiiit a minute. Did you seriously just refer to me as a hobbit? Like a small hairy-footed creature from the Shire? That's the first tiny fantastical being to come to mind... you couldn't have gone with like a fairy or a pixie or something else that sparkles?"

What Comes of Eating Doughnuts With a Boy Who Plays Guitar by Nicole Campbell is such a cute read!!! I was up until 3 a.m. reading as much as I could!

This book broke my heart! I was so happy at times, and then out of no where I was extremely sad! I 100% completely fell in love with Campbell's characters!

This book is about a cheer leader named Courtney. She is not your average cheer leader! She is very smart, loves words, likes all music, and is more than just a pretty face. Over summer she flew out to Ohio, her hometown, to visit her friend Vanessa. Here is where she meets Ethan. Ethan Fisher. Ethan would forever change Courtney's life. The two of them are absolutely perfect together. Ethan is so cute too! Perfect book boyfriend material! He is the perfect boyfriend for Courtney as well.. until he realizes long distance is hard, maybe too hard. Courtney obviously had to go back home when summer was over. What will happen? Will Courtney's and Ethan's relationship survive the distance? Will Courtney ever look at a doughnut the same?

"So this is what comes of eating doughnuts with a boy who plays guitar, she thought. She has always known there was a chance that the best between them would erupt in flames. That much had been clear the first time he'd touched her."

This book is a must read! I love Nicole Campbell's writing, so vivid and beautiful! I also enjoyed how she had some Harry Potter and Hobbit references in her book! I can not wait to read the rest of the series. I am now a huge, huge Nicole Campbell fan!
Profile Image for ☆Joycedale☆.
929 reviews38 followers
April 3, 2016
What can I saw about this book except I loved it!
It was a sweet realistic story of falling in love over the summer.
Courtney is going to stay with her bff for a month in Ohio where Vanessa decides that Ethan and her would be great together. I don't think anyone expected for their relationship to develop the way it does. When the month is up they know what they have is too deep to give up so they decide to try long distance. They knew it would be difficult but they didn't know just how hard.
I loved Courtney, she was wonderfully weird. It's implied in the beginning that every though she's head cheerleader in Scottsdale she has social anxiety and stresses out pretty easily. We never really get to see much of that because being with Ethan unknowingly helps her with this.
Ethan was just freaking adorable. He is supposedly a player but since we don't really see his life before Courtney that nevet comes into play.
Vanessa and Luke are just too cute and had me cracking up with almost every scene.
I loved the playlist to this book. At the beginning of each chapter is the song/s for it and it's a great selection of music. Nicole even took the time to make a YouTube playlist http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REHfRC... watch it and you're find some favorites and some new ones.
The ending was just wow and left me wanting to automatically start the next one but alas I couldn't. Hopefully before the end of the month I'll find the time.

I was sent an ebook in exchange for a honest review through Book Review Buzz.

This review can also be found on my page The Fiction Fanatics.
Profile Image for Alicia.
8,531 reviews150 followers
April 3, 2016
Holy saccharine but in the best possible beach-read way. I sometimes don't tolerate sweetness all that well in YA fiction, but in the vain of Stephanie Perkins' series, they are a straight-forward teen romance without excessive drama, unrealistic characters and situations, or death/dying and destruction.

Courtney has moved away and gets the chance to return to her hometown to spend it with her friend Vanessa. There's a somewhat new boy in Gem City and Ethan and Courtney fall in love with realistic witty banter, sexual overtones, sweetness in the form of doughnuts and guitar playing mixed tapes, and a general lack of parental supervision. This is the story, young romance. Remembering all the lovely ways you were wooed, remembering how it felt the first time, remembering how it felt when you weren't with them.

Of course there should be a bit of trouble, but that's expected because you're reminded that Courtney, the do-gooder, doesn't live there anymore. How will the long distance survive?

Campbell is making it into a series and I'd buy and also finish reading them, recommending them to the kind of kid who wants to remember or experience first love. Enjoy the references to music which are discussed somewhat heavily and that include songs for each chapter (and I must say I despise 90s music, but I could tolerate and hear all of those annoying songs in my head!).

And can I just say, I LOVE the title: LOVE the title. Love.the.title. Love the title.
Profile Image for Pari.
336 reviews
April 6, 2016
This boy is trouble. Courtney knows that. And yet she she can't help falling for him. Don't we all love stories like that?

This book was very light, neat and full of love and feels and emotions. We go through Courtney's first love. She's not your typical cheerleader- blond and flirty. I really liked that about this book- there were no stereotypical characters.

I loved the characters. I loved Ethan and Vanessa. Courtney was this girl-next-door type and she was delightful.

What I loved about this book was the talk of the music. I loved how they instantly bonded over something as trivial and diverse as music. I was drawn towards it instantly. I have yet to listen to those songs.

But the plot was not as great or grand as the title. It got a little typical as soon as their summer romance was over and I felt the urge to drag them both out of their places and keep them in Gem City.

I loved the cliff-hanger. Will put up a review as soon as I read the sequel!
Profile Image for Sumaiya Mubeen.
62 reviews
May 22, 2016
Oh dear God! I'm so intensely, passionately, extremely in love with this book.Everything about this book is perfect. I wish it never ended but luckily there is a second book so that's not a problem. Phew!
So, what do I love about this book? First thing-the characters. I still can't decide which one is my favourite. All of the characters are realistic and relatable. Be it Ethan, Luke, Vanessa or Courtney. It is just the perfect book for coming out of a reading slump. It has got everything for a YA Contemporary.
The name of the book itself is so catchy and alluring. Those who like to listen to music while reading will love this because it has got a chapter to chapter play list too. It has been a LONG time since I read such an excellent contemporary book. I literally feel as if this book was made for me . This book is a -feel good and good vibes- kind of book. I definitely recommend this to everyone.
Profile Image for Shelia.
147 reviews2 followers
February 24, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. When i started this book i was afraid it was going to be too young for me! Thank Goodness I was WRONG! It is a story about first love and all the ups and downs that come with it. The characters are very engaging and the heartache will make you cry! It brought back a lot of my own memories of my first relationship with a boy! Ms. Campbell keeps you laughing, loving and crying through the whole story. I have already started the second book so I could see where that boy's head was! you will love this.
Profile Image for Christina Bowling.
1,600 reviews15 followers
March 7, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I LOVED this book, and couldn't put it down until I'd finished it. I found Courtney to be very likable, and as someone who deals with a lot of nerves and anxiety, I found her to be very relatable, and it was nice to see a character I could identify with. I loved Ethan, and thought he was the perfect person to help Courtney come out of her shell.
Profile Image for Natasha.
161 reviews18 followers
March 7, 2016
i received an ecopy of this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.

holy sprinkles! this book is meant to be read with a box of doughnuts. sadly i didn't get the chance to do that while reading it. this was such a fluffy fucking adorable book. i was feeling all the feelings! everything about it was so so good! i am mildly bothered by the sudden end and that's the reason of my 4.5/5 stars but the rest???? PERFECT
Profile Image for Kritika Manchanda.
Author 1 book18 followers
January 28, 2017
The perfect example a new age fairy tale! A mushy YA romance that'll fill you up with happy feelings and thoughts of your first love.
The effervescent chemistry between Ethan and Courtney is so cute, you'll find yourself blushing at many places. And Venessa is the bff that we all need in life. Rock solid support system.

Hoping for more drama in part II. Although I have started to feel bad for Ben already, but keeping my fingers crossed.
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