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Creating Chaos
High school senior Gideon Stryker has never been great at blending in. His sexual identity and close friendship with his parents has made him a target for every bully in Hillside High's student body. With less than a year to graduation, Gideon hopes to lay low and get out unscathed.
In a failed first attempt at blending in, Gideon finds himself seated next to Elliott Oakley—the new kid.
Following his mother's death, Elliott packs his bags and leaves small town Iowa for a fresh start in Durham, North Carolina. Making new friends was not on his agenda but when Gideon sits beside him, a frown on his face, he can't help but make conversation.
Side by side in Chemistry class, Gideon and Elliott bond over a mutual hatred for teenage torment and a shared love of earning trophies. As the year progresses, their friendship evolves into something unexpected yet welcome. Their new relationship ensures they stick out like a sore thumb but when they're together, blending in doesn't seem so important anymore. Together, they have exactly what they need to survive their final months of high school.
Until Elliott's past makes the journey from Iowa all the way to North Carolina, threatening to destroy their bond. Gideon and Elliott are left to wonder... is love really strong enough?
In a failed first attempt at blending in, Gideon finds himself seated next to Elliott Oakley—the new kid.
Following his mother's death, Elliott packs his bags and leaves small town Iowa for a fresh start in Durham, North Carolina. Making new friends was not on his agenda but when Gideon sits beside him, a frown on his face, he can't help but make conversation.
Side by side in Chemistry class, Gideon and Elliott bond over a mutual hatred for teenage torment and a shared love of earning trophies. As the year progresses, their friendship evolves into something unexpected yet welcome. Their new relationship ensures they stick out like a sore thumb but when they're together, blending in doesn't seem so important anymore. Together, they have exactly what they need to survive their final months of high school.
Until Elliott's past makes the journey from Iowa all the way to North Carolina, threatening to destroy their bond. Gideon and Elliott are left to wonder... is love really strong enough?
284 pages, ebook
First published July 2, 2018
62 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
About the author
Lacey Dailey
10 books71 followersThe best place to find Lacey is with her nose in a book. She’s a sucker for a good love story and a happy ending that has her swooning. When she’s not obsessing over giving her own characters a happy ending, you can find her in the dance studio empowering young dancers and giving out tons of stickers. Thanks to her mother’s pizzeria, Lacey can make a delicious pizza.
When she’s not putting on her dance shoes or inhaling a slice of pizza, she’s in front of her computer binge watching romantic comedies and penning stories with love so powerful, it’ll last a lifetime. As a recent graduate of Central Michigan University, Lacey intends to keep inspiring people through dance and lots and lots of words. She currently lives in Central Michigan surrounded by her family and unpredictable weather.
When she’s not putting on her dance shoes or inhaling a slice of pizza, she’s in front of her computer binge watching romantic comedies and penning stories with love so powerful, it’ll last a lifetime. As a recent graduate of Central Michigan University, Lacey intends to keep inspiring people through dance and lots and lots of words. She currently lives in Central Michigan surrounded by her family and unpredictable weather.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 24, 2021
A HEA story with really good characters and some painfully obvious story twists and elements. Gideon is who everyone wants as a best friend. Elliot has got some issues but wants to be better. Their arc is sweet and it might actually be molasses and Canadian Maple Syrup on top of pancakes sweet. Maybe too much?
There were editing errors but the biggest one was the use of the trophy reference. It was used on repeat ad infinitum. The worst thing in the whole book is the reveal of Gideon’s mother. I’m sorry, I believe in worldly connections but this was not even remotely believable.
I love a good sappy story that also has some loving but crotchety grandpa and two gay dad’s made of solid gold. Add in a dancer who wants to be a firefighter (strange) and drag racing? Ok. I’m still here. More or less. I enjoyed it. I felt for it but I had to ignore things to do it.
There were editing errors but the biggest one was the use of the trophy reference. It was used on repeat ad infinitum. The worst thing in the whole book is the reveal of Gideon’s mother. I’m sorry, I believe in worldly connections but this was not even remotely believable.
I love a good sappy story that also has some loving but crotchety grandpa and two gay dad’s made of solid gold. Add in a dancer who wants to be a firefighter (strange) and drag racing? Ok. I’m still here. More or less. I enjoyed it. I felt for it but I had to ignore things to do it.
July 2, 2018
3.75 Stars
The best part of this book was Gideon and his parents. I’ve read a lot of MM and quite a few featuring children, but most have young kids, I LOVED watching two gay men interact with a teenaged kid. I adored these three together, and truly, I didn’t need a romance. The three of them together were satisfying enough to have kept me entertained throughout the entire story.
Now, let’s get to Elliot. I loved him at first. I loved that he saw through the rumors and saw the real Gideon. He didn’t let his fellow classmates actions deter him from getting to know and befriend, Gideon.
As I said I LOVED the interactions between Gideon and his parents, and really, he was just an all around amazing young man and I LOVED him. He was funny and sweet and he let his classmates opinions and tormenting behavior roll right off his back for the most part.
What I didn’t like was, and this is something that is so prevalent in romances today, is taking your parents' romantic mistakes and transferring that fear of those mistakes onto their loved interest. It’s annoying and often feels like inserting drama into the story, just for the sake of having drama.
Overall, the story is well-written and often had me chuckling and even laughing out loud, but it’s a YA and the attitudes and actions of Gideon and Elliot, especially Elliot, reflect that. For the most part, I enjoyed the story. It started off with so much promise, but then we have, in my opinion, unnecessary drama. Elliot and Gideon faced enough past and present hurt that I just felt Elliot’s actions in certain instances were not needed, and frankly, I kinda wanted to punch him in the throat, but alas he’s a minor, so I’ll reframe. So, while not my most enjoyable read, it is still recommendable!
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
The best part of this book was Gideon and his parents. I’ve read a lot of MM and quite a few featuring children, but most have young kids, I LOVED watching two gay men interact with a teenaged kid. I adored these three together, and truly, I didn’t need a romance. The three of them together were satisfying enough to have kept me entertained throughout the entire story.
Now, let’s get to Elliot. I loved him at first. I loved that he saw through the rumors and saw the real Gideon. He didn’t let his fellow classmates actions deter him from getting to know and befriend, Gideon.
As I said I LOVED the interactions between Gideon and his parents, and really, he was just an all around amazing young man and I LOVED him. He was funny and sweet and he let his classmates opinions and tormenting behavior roll right off his back for the most part.
What I didn’t like was, and this is something that is so prevalent in romances today, is taking your parents' romantic mistakes and transferring that fear of those mistakes onto their loved interest. It’s annoying and often feels like inserting drama into the story, just for the sake of having drama.
Overall, the story is well-written and often had me chuckling and even laughing out loud, but it’s a YA and the attitudes and actions of Gideon and Elliot, especially Elliot, reflect that. For the most part, I enjoyed the story. It started off with so much promise, but then we have, in my opinion, unnecessary drama. Elliot and Gideon faced enough past and present hurt that I just felt Elliot’s actions in certain instances were not needed, and frankly, I kinda wanted to punch him in the throat, but alas he’s a minor, so I’ll reframe. So, while not my most enjoyable read, it is still recommendable!
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
July 1, 2018
Very Grown Up Y.A. Read
What a sweet, emotional book Lacey Dailey gives her readers with Creating Chaos. We meet Gideon and Elliott, seniors in high school, trying to make it through thier last year of school together.
Gideon was the most intersting character I have read about in a long time. He may only be seventeen, but carried the wisdom of a man four times his age. He was mature and knew exactly what he wanted after he graduated. That is until Elliott entered his life and turned things upside down.
Elliott blew in from Idaho and quickly learned where he was, wasn't anything like where he came from. In North Carolina, he could be himself, like who he wanted and didn't have to be anybody's dirty little secret. He'd never experienced life in the open and Gideon made it that much better.
Two were the cutest couple ever. Total opposites, yet they fit perfectly. Gideon was well balanced having grown up with two dads that accepted him for who he was. Gideon's confidence started to bleed onto Elliott, changing him for the better.
It was a treat to read about these two young men and the complications that arise from people that don't appreciate thier lifestyle. Of course it can't be all roses and sunshine for this young couple and Elliott's past showing up tests just how strong thier love is.
The book was well written from dual points of view and along with Gideon and Elliott, we meet thier family and friends that really help thier story along.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
What a sweet, emotional book Lacey Dailey gives her readers with Creating Chaos. We meet Gideon and Elliott, seniors in high school, trying to make it through thier last year of school together.
Gideon was the most intersting character I have read about in a long time. He may only be seventeen, but carried the wisdom of a man four times his age. He was mature and knew exactly what he wanted after he graduated. That is until Elliott entered his life and turned things upside down.
Elliott blew in from Idaho and quickly learned where he was, wasn't anything like where he came from. In North Carolina, he could be himself, like who he wanted and didn't have to be anybody's dirty little secret. He'd never experienced life in the open and Gideon made it that much better.
Two were the cutest couple ever. Total opposites, yet they fit perfectly. Gideon was well balanced having grown up with two dads that accepted him for who he was. Gideon's confidence started to bleed onto Elliott, changing him for the better.
It was a treat to read about these two young men and the complications that arise from people that don't appreciate thier lifestyle. Of course it can't be all roses and sunshine for this young couple and Elliott's past showing up tests just how strong thier love is.
The book was well written from dual points of view and along with Gideon and Elliott, we meet thier family and friends that really help thier story along.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
September 3, 2019
Oh, she got me again. Lacey Dailey continues to floor me and give me all the feels! Creating Chaos made me feel so warm and giddy. Pterodactyl’s were flapping their giant wings inside my belly. I got so swept away with Gideon, Elli, and everyone else in this book. Gideon’s Dads—Beck and Knox, had me wishing they were my parents. The cousins had me cracking up and I so want a book for each of them. And Elliot’s Gramps was so supportive and had a heart of gold. I just completely fell in love with this world. The teenage angst, the drama and confusion of new and young love was in full-force and written perfectly. The story dealt with some serious heartbreaking issues—loss, bullying, parental problems. It all felt so real and authentic and had me yearning to hug Gid and Elli so hard. The second I finished this book, I wanted to read it again. It just made me so happy! I'm over the moon!
July 8, 2018
3.75 Stars
I loved Gideon, he was such a strong and mature 17-year-old, who at his age had already endured more than he should have. I absolutely hated the way he was bullied at school and it's sad to think that so many teens have to go through something similar, as well.
I really liked Elliott, too. Actually, I loved him at first. It was refreshing the way he stood with Gideon against Gideon's bullies and made up his own mind about Gideon. And then, Elliott let his past experiences color his perception of Gideon (twice) blowing things out of proportion, although I will admit that the second time looked kind of bad, and not giving Gideon a chance to explain and then on top of it all, Gideon was the one seeking Elliott out to make things right, so that made my estimation of him lower quite a bit. Sorry, but that's one of my pet peeves, so I can't help myself.
Still, I will admit that Gideon and Elliott made a lovely couple and I had high hopes of them making it in the long run.
I absolutely adored Gideon's parents, who stole the show in every scene they were in. They had such a fantastic relationship not only between them, but with Gideon. It was amazing to see. And I loved Elli's grandpa, too. He was very nice. I hated Elliott's father with the fire of a thousand suns and I was very happy he got what he deserved. The part with Norah, Elliott's new stepmother, was too much of a coincidence for my taste, but I guess it worked well in the end.
Overall, while not exactly what I expected, Creating Chaos was a good read. I think Lacey Daley has a good grasp of what teenage kids go through and managed to create a story that touches several difficult topics in a sensitive manner. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I loved Gideon, he was such a strong and mature 17-year-old, who at his age had already endured more than he should have. I absolutely hated the way he was bullied at school and it's sad to think that so many teens have to go through something similar, as well.
I really liked Elliott, too. Actually, I loved him at first. It was refreshing the way he stood with Gideon against Gideon's bullies and made up his own mind about Gideon. And then, Elliott let his past experiences color his perception of Gideon (twice) blowing things out of proportion, although I will admit that the second time looked kind of bad, and not giving Gideon a chance to explain and then on top of it all, Gideon was the one seeking Elliott out to make things right, so that made my estimation of him lower quite a bit. Sorry, but that's one of my pet peeves, so I can't help myself.
Still, I will admit that Gideon and Elliott made a lovely couple and I had high hopes of them making it in the long run.
I absolutely adored Gideon's parents, who stole the show in every scene they were in. They had such a fantastic relationship not only between them, but with Gideon. It was amazing to see. And I loved Elli's grandpa, too. He was very nice. I hated Elliott's father with the fire of a thousand suns and I was very happy he got what he deserved. The part with Norah, Elliott's new stepmother, was too much of a coincidence for my taste, but I guess it worked well in the end.
Overall, while not exactly what I expected, Creating Chaos was a good read. I think Lacey Daley has a good grasp of what teenage kids go through and managed to create a story that touches several difficult topics in a sensitive manner. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
June 24, 2018
This is my first Young Adult M/M romance I have read, so I really didn't know what to expect. I was first introduced to these two characters - Gideon & Elliot - in Lacey's novel "The Devil Side" and I adored them and their relationship. So it was fun to be able to go back and read how it all started for them.
First off - I fell head over heels for Elliot. He had his heart ripped out by his own father, yet picked himself up to start a new path for himself with his adorable grandpa. Elliot is rugged, smart, loves drag racing and fixing up cars, and really doesn't give a crap about what other people think of him. This guy is smooth and confident, all while being sensitive, charming, and fiercely independent. I loved his easy friendship with Gideon from the start, and his immediate need to protect him from the school bullies.
Oh Gideon...this poor boy has been bullied by the best of them throughout High School; but continues to do his own thing and just be himself. I love the relationship he has with his dads, and their obvious loyal, honest, and loving family bond. Gideon puts his heart out there and it's beautiful to see him be so vulnerable and let Elliot earn his trust, friendship and love.
This book is a reflection of today's reality of gay teens and the obstacles they face with both family and friends. It is about fighting for what you truly want, overcoming tragedy, and recognizing that your "family" isn't always formed by blood. It is about accepting that we are ALL worthy of love. Well done Lacey Dailey!! XO
First off - I fell head over heels for Elliot. He had his heart ripped out by his own father, yet picked himself up to start a new path for himself with his adorable grandpa. Elliot is rugged, smart, loves drag racing and fixing up cars, and really doesn't give a crap about what other people think of him. This guy is smooth and confident, all while being sensitive, charming, and fiercely independent. I loved his easy friendship with Gideon from the start, and his immediate need to protect him from the school bullies.
Oh Gideon...this poor boy has been bullied by the best of them throughout High School; but continues to do his own thing and just be himself. I love the relationship he has with his dads, and their obvious loyal, honest, and loving family bond. Gideon puts his heart out there and it's beautiful to see him be so vulnerable and let Elliot earn his trust, friendship and love.
This book is a reflection of today's reality of gay teens and the obstacles they face with both family and friends. It is about fighting for what you truly want, overcoming tragedy, and recognizing that your "family" isn't always formed by blood. It is about accepting that we are ALL worthy of love. Well done Lacey Dailey!! XO
October 3, 2020
A sugary sweet YA anyone?!
Lacey Dailey does it again with another read that will have you curling up dying for the next page, just for the smiles alone.
I wish I read this book sooner because it was everything I needed. A M/M with so much sweetness with the perfect blend of drama to keep me occupied away from current life!
Gideon and Elliott are a couple you need in your life. Gideon is trying to survive senior year, with bullies in his way and his mortal enemy chemistry, it's going to be a tough one.
However when he needs to find a partner for chemistry and finds a seat next to the new guy in town things start to look up.
Elliott is running from a life in Iowa for a quiet one, just until he can graduate. Yet life has other plans for him. Gideon plans.
It starts as a simple friendship and slowly blooms into something do much more. They're perfect for each other. Made for one another. Soul mates.
One of my favourite parts was seeing them grow and fall in love even though problems come their way. They preserve and show that young love can survive the wrath of high school drama.
If you want a read with great leads, adorable and funny side characters like Gideon's dad's, Spanky (ole Gramps), and of course the rest of Gideon's vibrant family, then this is the book for you!
For every romance lover this YA is so much more than just about young love. It's about how when finding the one no matter what chaos comes you'll always come back to each other.
Thank you Lacey for another amazing read!
Lacey Dailey does it again with another read that will have you curling up dying for the next page, just for the smiles alone.
I wish I read this book sooner because it was everything I needed. A M/M with so much sweetness with the perfect blend of drama to keep me occupied away from current life!
Gideon and Elliott are a couple you need in your life. Gideon is trying to survive senior year, with bullies in his way and his mortal enemy chemistry, it's going to be a tough one.
However when he needs to find a partner for chemistry and finds a seat next to the new guy in town things start to look up.
Elliott is running from a life in Iowa for a quiet one, just until he can graduate. Yet life has other plans for him. Gideon plans.
It starts as a simple friendship and slowly blooms into something do much more. They're perfect for each other. Made for one another. Soul mates.
One of my favourite parts was seeing them grow and fall in love even though problems come their way. They preserve and show that young love can survive the wrath of high school drama.
If you want a read with great leads, adorable and funny side characters like Gideon's dad's, Spanky (ole Gramps), and of course the rest of Gideon's vibrant family, then this is the book for you!
For every romance lover this YA is so much more than just about young love. It's about how when finding the one no matter what chaos comes you'll always come back to each other.
Thank you Lacey for another amazing read!
June 21, 2025
This was a really heartwarming read. Elliot and Gideons story was really beautiful and I thought it really showcased how meeting that one friend in high school can change help change your story. Elliot and Gideon start as friends at a point where they both need something positive to get through the final months of school. Their friendship blooms into something more and they are incredible cute together and have a beautiful relationship. The relationship I thought was realistic of teens with it's moments of misunderstanding and being nervous. I also thought the author did amazing job of showing both sides of a relationship between a parent and child. The found family vibes in this book are also really well written. The sex scenes in this book are all behind closed door. Although most of this book are heartwarming their are some series topics that are addressed including death of a parent from cancer, trauma surrounding that death and the struggles with grief, neglect from a parent, bullying and homophobia. I thought all these topics were written with great care and respect while also being very realistic. I really related to Elliots feelings of being haunted by watch his Mum suffer in the final stages of cancer and how fair it was that her life ended that way after going through something similar.
July 18, 2018
This was a great book about finding yourself, strength and love.
I liked Gideon right from the beginning and it was obvious how he had been treated in high school by his classmates. I loved that he was confident enough to keep dancing and I loved the relationship he had with his dads and I wish more kids had that type of relationship with their parents.
Elliott had some issues from losing his mom and he was afraid to get close to anyone with the fear of losing them as well. That being said I loved that he was trying to follow in his grandfather’s steps of being a drag racer and the joy he got from it. It was sad what he went through in his old school with people “experimenting” with him.
I was not expecting the twist towards the end of the book but at the same time I kind of had a feeling something was up but I had no clue what it would be. I was blown away by the conversation that Elliott overheard between Norah and Jackson and I was so proud of Norah for sticking up for Elliott and doing the right thing.
The end was great and I was so happy with what Gideon’s dads did!!
I liked Gideon right from the beginning and it was obvious how he had been treated in high school by his classmates. I loved that he was confident enough to keep dancing and I loved the relationship he had with his dads and I wish more kids had that type of relationship with their parents.
Elliott had some issues from losing his mom and he was afraid to get close to anyone with the fear of losing them as well. That being said I loved that he was trying to follow in his grandfather’s steps of being a drag racer and the joy he got from it. It was sad what he went through in his old school with people “experimenting” with him.
I was not expecting the twist towards the end of the book but at the same time I kind of had a feeling something was up but I had no clue what it would be. I was blown away by the conversation that Elliott overheard between Norah and Jackson and I was so proud of Norah for sticking up for Elliott and doing the right thing.
The end was great and I was so happy with what Gideon’s dads did!!
April 20, 2021
Aagghh!!! So I LOVED this from the start. Halfway through I really thought this was going to be the newest addition to my favorites list. Then the last quarter went really, really bad. Overly dramatic and embarrassingly downhill. It felt like the author threw in extra madness for no reason other than to just be more dramatic. What started out as a fun little high school story turned into 10 other stories all in one. Why was Gideon so bullied? Why was Piper a side plot point in the beginning but practically disappeared? Is North Carolina really this liberal and bigoted at the same time? Are the Dads NATIONAL celebrities (they were seriously People’s magazine cutest couple)? This dance empire sounds amazing… but in North Carolina AND the celebrity owner’s kid is bullied? What happened to Spanky’s gf? Why was the sex or lack therof a major discussion but completely skipped over when it finally happened???? I’m a little heartbroken from this.
April 28, 2021
I appreciated that most of the issues the characters went through were based on past occurrences and could be (and in most instances were) resolved by simply talking honestly with each other. Biggest problem came up toward the end of the book. There were a few twists that added to what we had already learned about Elliott's past. However, one of the twists revealed seemed to only be a half-hearted attempt to involve Gideon into the drama more than he was before and, in my opinion, was unsuccessful. This particular issue (which I'm doing my best not to spoil) was never really brought up by Gideon and even once the twist happened it didn't really do much to add to the drama as it was almost never mentioned again. A relatively realistic plot that got bogged down by just a little too much drama.
July 12, 2018
I read this in less than 48 hours while I was camping. It was a perfect vacation, camping, beach read and I stayed up way too late reading this while my kids slept because I just couldn’t put it down. I love YA and romance but a lot of YA romance is dumbed down and feels superficial. This was not the case with this book.
I liked the drama and the way Gideon was a little over the top. I thought the characters were all fun and unique. All of the stuff with jumping to conclusions and overreacting seemed to be a pretty accurate depiction of how relationships are when you’re 17. At least that’s how I remember it being when I was 17.... 4/5 starts, I really liked it.
I liked the drama and the way Gideon was a little over the top. I thought the characters were all fun and unique. All of the stuff with jumping to conclusions and overreacting seemed to be a pretty accurate depiction of how relationships are when you’re 17. At least that’s how I remember it being when I was 17.... 4/5 starts, I really liked it.
October 8, 2020
This was exactly the book I needed right now. I was hooked from page one and didn't want it to end, in fact, this is one of the rare books that I wish was longer. Right away, I was totally committed to the two main characters--Gideon and Eliott--as well as the wonderful side characters, who, while being secondary characters, had their own chance to shine as well. As an indie author myself, I was impressed by how well this book was written and honestly, how much better it was than a lot of the mainstream stuff out there. I laughed, I cried, I loved alongside these characters and it was an absolute pleasure to do so.
July 4, 2018
Who would think that a dancer and a drag racer could “maybe” fall in love. This book is chaos in it’s finest form, from a stormy upbringing for Elliott, to a perfect one for Gideon. So many obstacles for these two to overcome. Can they do it? This is a very powerful and emotional read. Teenage love is always messy, read how these two try and overcome the dilemmas of life.
There is a few editing errors in this book, but the story is absolutely a masterpiece. I highly recommend this read.
There is a few editing errors in this book, but the story is absolutely a masterpiece. I highly recommend this read.
October 26, 2020
This was a cute book, but I have to say, Gideon has the patience of the saint. I know Elliott is only a teen and has a lot of unresolved trauma, but the way he completely blew up at Gideon on two separate occasions over minor misunderstandings was... I don't want to say red flags but it did set off warning sirens. I know it's just an unrealistic book, but the way Gideon was able to just roll with that even as an emotional teenager himself was impressive. I don't think I would have been able to do that. Also the big reveal/twist at the end felt pretty contrived. I did like Gideon's dads though.
July 2, 2018
I feel like Elliott was a little self destructive in instances. It was hard to get through the middle of the story with the crazy drama. But overall I like the characters and the plot of this one!
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
June 22, 2021
Honestly the best part of this book are Gideon's dads. They are sweet and hilarious. Overall the story was pretty good with some interesting twists and turns I wasn't expecting, which is always fun. However the running joke about trophies I feel like was brought up faaaaar too often.
July 3, 2024
I absolutely adored the story of Elliott and Gideon. It's well written, I would have finished it sooner if I didn't have adult responsibilities. It's a charming story about despite life circumstances, love can conquer all.
November 21, 2024
Disgustingly sweet
There's drama, but most of all is filled with love and goofy moments and affirmations. And sometimes that's all you need. Not some grandiose masterpiece of poetry, not slowburn, just a couple young adults finding happiness and comfort in each other.
There's drama, but most of all is filled with love and goofy moments and affirmations. And sometimes that's all you need. Not some grandiose masterpiece of poetry, not slowburn, just a couple young adults finding happiness and comfort in each other.
October 12, 2020
I love angst, but by the end of this book the plot was being driven off a cliff.
May 25, 2021
Unforgettable characters
Unforgettable characters. What a great story! Absolutely kept me reading, and I still want more. That’s the way a story should be.
Unforgettable characters. What a great story! Absolutely kept me reading, and I still want more. That’s the way a story should be.
September 11, 2021
Great coming of age story
The book has all the snark and angst one would expect in high school kids. With a truly unexpected twist just for fun.
The book has all the snark and angst one would expect in high school kids. With a truly unexpected twist just for fun.
December 11, 2021
3.75 stars
The beginning was great. It honestly got to be a little much for me with all the drama there at the end, but their love story was sweet and charming and adorable and I really liked the characters and the overall message throughout about chaos and love. The dads were absolutely amazing.
The beginning was great. It honestly got to be a little much for me with all the drama there at the end, but their love story was sweet and charming and adorable and I really liked the characters and the overall message throughout about chaos and love. The dads were absolutely amazing.
August 1, 2022
Loved this book!!! Couldn’t put it down!
May 3, 2021
I think my absolute favorite part about this book was Knox and Beck and what amazing parents they were to Gideon, how they accepted Elliott into the family and went out of their way to help him. I loved what an incredible family Gideon, Knox, and Beck were and I loved the scenes with them and how funny they were, what great parents they were. I just can't get over them.
I adored Gideon and Elliott and how there was this instant connection between them, how they both knew what it was like to be singled out, how they had each other's backs. I loved them so dang much. I liked how Elliott chose to ignore the taunts and rumors and befriended Gideon, and the rest of his crew. I loved Gideon's "family" and how awesome they all were together. Piper was the best.
The ending was a LOT. That insanity just defied logic, and I think I rolled my eyes at least three times over some of the things that happened. There was just... so much going on there and I don't even know where to start with it. So I'll just say that I loved Gideon's dads being there for Elliott, and I love how Gideon and Elliott get to be together, how they found their happiness, and how they fought for it. This was a sweet story, and I loved these two dorks to no end <3
I adored Gideon and Elliott and how there was this instant connection between them, how they both knew what it was like to be singled out, how they had each other's backs. I loved them so dang much. I liked how Elliott chose to ignore the taunts and rumors and befriended Gideon, and the rest of his crew. I loved Gideon's "family" and how awesome they all were together. Piper was the best.
The ending was a LOT. That insanity just defied logic, and I think I rolled my eyes at least three times over some of the things that happened. There was just... so much going on there and I don't even know where to start with it. So I'll just say that I loved Gideon's dads being there for Elliott, and I love how Gideon and Elliott get to be together, how they found their happiness, and how they fought for it. This was a sweet story, and I loved these two dorks to no end <3
July 2, 2018
Gideon Stryker is an outcast at his high school. Being a dancer and having two dads doesn’t have him climbing to the top of the popular group. When Elliott Oakley moves to town the two become chemistry partners and fast friends.
Soon Gideon and Elliott find themselves as more than friends and the two each have their own insecurities to overcome. After everything Elliott battled in his own school he wonders if Gideon is going to break his heart.
When Elliott’s past comes back will he find his way back to Gideon?
This was a great book about finding yourself, strength and love.
I liked Gideon right from the beginning and it was obvious how he had been treated in high school by his classmates. I loved that he was confident enough to keep dancing and I loved the relationship he had with his dads and I wish more kids had that type of relationship with their parents.
Elliott had some issues from losing his mom and he was afraid to get close to anyone with the fear of losing them as well. That being said I loved that he was trying to follow in his grandfather’s steps of being a drag racer and the joy he got from it. It was sad what he went through in his old school with people “experimenting” with him.
I was not expecting the twist towards the end of the book but at the same time I kind of had a feeling something was up but I had no clue what it would be. I was blown away by the conversation that Elliott overheard between Norah and Jackson and I was so proud of Norah for sticking up for Elliott and doing the right thing.
The end was great and I was so happy with what Gideon’s dads did!! - By Rebecca
Soon Gideon and Elliott find themselves as more than friends and the two each have their own insecurities to overcome. After everything Elliott battled in his own school he wonders if Gideon is going to break his heart.
When Elliott’s past comes back will he find his way back to Gideon?
This was a great book about finding yourself, strength and love.
I liked Gideon right from the beginning and it was obvious how he had been treated in high school by his classmates. I loved that he was confident enough to keep dancing and I loved the relationship he had with his dads and I wish more kids had that type of relationship with their parents.
Elliott had some issues from losing his mom and he was afraid to get close to anyone with the fear of losing them as well. That being said I loved that he was trying to follow in his grandfather’s steps of being a drag racer and the joy he got from it. It was sad what he went through in his old school with people “experimenting” with him.
I was not expecting the twist towards the end of the book but at the same time I kind of had a feeling something was up but I had no clue what it would be. I was blown away by the conversation that Elliott overheard between Norah and Jackson and I was so proud of Norah for sticking up for Elliott and doing the right thing.
The end was great and I was so happy with what Gideon’s dads did!! - By Rebecca
June 22, 2018
5+ Stars!
This book is just...wow! From the very first page, I fell in love. It’s so beautifully written.
Elliott and Gideon are both so adorable and sappy; I laughed and cried. The way the two talk to each other is comical.
I think I have fallen in love with almost every character in this book. Gideon's Dad's, Knox, and Beck are just too wonderful for words, and Elliott's Gramps is such a funny, straight-talking old man that I feel the need to hug him. Gideon’s family, his 'non-cousins' crack me up.
The subject of bullying is heartbreaking in itself. After all of Elliott’s recent family drama, it just about broke my heart. I had trouble breathing at one point as the story took a turn I did NOT see coming! Boy did that hurt! But I survived and had to keep on reading through my tears.
I can't stress enough that you should buy this book. It’s so well written. Now my heart needs time to mend.
This book is just...wow! From the very first page, I fell in love. It’s so beautifully written.
Elliott and Gideon are both so adorable and sappy; I laughed and cried. The way the two talk to each other is comical.
I think I have fallen in love with almost every character in this book. Gideon's Dad's, Knox, and Beck are just too wonderful for words, and Elliott's Gramps is such a funny, straight-talking old man that I feel the need to hug him. Gideon’s family, his 'non-cousins' crack me up.
The subject of bullying is heartbreaking in itself. After all of Elliott’s recent family drama, it just about broke my heart. I had trouble breathing at one point as the story took a turn I did NOT see coming! Boy did that hurt! But I survived and had to keep on reading through my tears.
I can't stress enough that you should buy this book. It’s so well written. Now my heart needs time to mend.
July 2, 2018
Creating Chaos by Lainey Dailey was absolutely wonderful. A truly beautiful YA story with real heartbreaking life problems such as bulling and family problems.
Gideon and Elliott take us on a journey of love, sorrow and finding oneself. They each struggle through their last years of high school and until they found each other it seems like they would never survive it. Gideon and Elliott for together and life seemly gets better until the past catches them and their love put to the test.
I cannot express enough how remarkable this story is and encourage everyone to read this story. The emotions and joy this book brings is heartwarming!!
Gideon and Elliott take us on a journey of love, sorrow and finding oneself. They each struggle through their last years of high school and until they found each other it seems like they would never survive it. Gideon and Elliott for together and life seemly gets better until the past catches them and their love put to the test.
I cannot express enough how remarkable this story is and encourage everyone to read this story. The emotions and joy this book brings is heartwarming!!
July 2, 2018
I don't read too many YA books, but this one just called to me. I'm so glad that I gave into the pull. This book was absolutely beautiful. It made me laugh. It made me cry. It broke my heart, and in the end, it made me feel whole.
Gideon is living a life where he's just trying to get through high school and get out to a new life where he feels accepted. When Elliot moves to town, the two become best friends and then evolves into something more. Elliot brings new meaning and purpose to his life.
Things can't always be sunshine and roses though. Soon Elliot's past comes back to haunt them and they have to see if the have what it takes to pull through unscathed. Such a beautiful book!
Gideon is living a life where he's just trying to get through high school and get out to a new life where he feels accepted. When Elliot moves to town, the two become best friends and then evolves into something more. Elliot brings new meaning and purpose to his life.
Things can't always be sunshine and roses though. Soon Elliot's past comes back to haunt them and they have to see if the have what it takes to pull through unscathed. Such a beautiful book!
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