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Eu e esse meu coração
Leah MacKenzie, de 17 anos, não tem coração. O que a mantém viva é um coração artificial que ela carrega dentro de uma mochila. Com seu tipo sanguíneo raro, um transplante é como um sonho distante. Conformada, ela tenta se esquecer de que está com os dias contados, criando uma lista de “coisas para fazer antes de morrer”. De repente, Leah recebe uma segunda chance: há um coração disponível! O problema é quando ela descobre que o doador é um garoto da sua escola – e que supostamente se matou! Matt, o irmão gêmeo do doador, se recusa a acreditar que Eric se suicidou. Quando Leah o procura, eles descobrem que ambos têm sonhos semelhantes que podem ter pistas do que realmente aconteceu a Eric. Enquanto tentam desvendar esse mistério, Matt e Leah se apaixonam e não querem correr o risco de perder um ao outro. Mas nem a vida nem um coração transplantado vem com garantias. Quem diria que viver exige mais coragem do que morrer?
424 pages, Paperback
First published February 27, 2018
328 people are currently reading
9757 people want to read
About the author
C.C. Hunter
37 books8,125 followersC. C. Hunter is the New York Times bestselling author of over thirty-five books, including her wildly popular Shadow Falls and Shadow Falls: After Dark series. In addition to winning numerous awards and rave reviews for her novels, C.C. is also a photojournalist, motivational speaker, and writing coach. In February 2018, Wednesday Books will publish her contemporary young adult and hardcover debut, This Heart of Mine. And the first book of her new paranormal young adult series, The Mortician's Daughter: One Foot in the Grave was released on October 31st 2017. C. C. currently resides in Texas with her husband, junkyard dog, Lady, and whatever wild creatures that meander out from woods surrounding home.
C.C. Hunter is a pseudonym. Her real name is Christie Craig and she also writes humorous romantic suspense romance novels. www.christie-craig.com
C.C. would love to hear from you. Because of deadlines, it may take her a day or so to get back with you, but she will reply. cc@cchunterbooks.com
C.C. Hunter is a pseudonym. Her real name is Christie Craig and she also writes humorous romantic suspense romance novels. www.christie-craig.com
C.C. would love to hear from you. Because of deadlines, it may take her a day or so to get back with you, but she will reply. cc@cchunterbooks.com
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October 26, 2017Dear Reader,
I never really understood the meaning of the phrase “book of your heart” until I wrote Leah McKenzie’s story. When I typed “The End” to every novel, I used to feel it was my favorite. But This Heart of Mine is different. It’s not only the book of my heart, it’s the book from my heart.
As the wife of someone on the transplant list, I held my husband’s hand as he accepted that his time, our time, would be too short. He needed a kidney, but the dialysis that was saving his life, was killing his heart. And breaking mine.
Then like Leah, he got a second chance. His journey, his pain, my pain, his fear, my fear, and our enormous appreciation to the donor and his family for the gift of life, poured out of my soul and into my keyboard. This didn’t make writing it any less scary. In some ways, it made it that much more.
When my ten-book Shadow Falls series came to a close, and the book idea was in its infancy, I was both apprehensive about writing such a personal story, and about making the switch from the paranormal genre to contemporary. Then my grandmother’s words of wisdom whispered in my head, “If there’s not a bit of fear in your belly, you’re not living right. Invite fear into your world, make friends with every challenge you meet.”
In that moment, I knew Leah’s story needed to be told and I had to be the one to tell it.
This book blends emotion with romance. It’s seasoned with my humor, my love for a little mystery, and sprinkled with a pinch of the mystical. I hope you’ll join me on this new adventure and take the journey with Leah as she creates her own recipe for living and makes friends with every challenge she meets.
Here’s to always living with a little bit of fear in your belly.
C.C. Hunter
January 9, 2018
4 Stars.
Seventeen year-old Leah MacKenzie has a bucket list. At the top of it? Read one hundred books before she dies. The problem? Leah’s days are numbered. She has an artificial heart and she has no idea if she will receive a transplant. She is on the donor list, but Leah has a rare blood type and in her life, infections are not uncommon. Then all of a sudden, it happens - Leah gets a new heart and she has to change her entire outlook on life.
Seventeen year-old Matt has always been a twin. Eric has been by his side since day one. They have been different sides of a coin. They have gotten each other through everything, including their dad’s death. And then one night Matt feels it, the loss. Eric is gone. Everyone says it’s suicide, including the police. Matt, however, knows that Eric wouldn’t kill himself - and he sets out to prove it.
Leah always had a crush on Matt and now, she is bound to Eric and will do whatever she can to help Matt figure out what happened to his twin.
“This Heart of Mine” by C.C. Hunter was a sweet, endearing, easy read that captured my attention quickly and held it. There were times when the novel was serious, sad and incredible sweet. In addition, the subject matter was very important and was handled deftly by the author, while telling one heck of a story.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and C.C. Hunter for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads and Twitter on 1.8.18.
*Will be published on Amazon on 2.27.18.
Seventeen year-old Leah MacKenzie has a bucket list. At the top of it? Read one hundred books before she dies. The problem? Leah’s days are numbered. She has an artificial heart and she has no idea if she will receive a transplant. She is on the donor list, but Leah has a rare blood type and in her life, infections are not uncommon. Then all of a sudden, it happens - Leah gets a new heart and she has to change her entire outlook on life.
Seventeen year-old Matt has always been a twin. Eric has been by his side since day one. They have been different sides of a coin. They have gotten each other through everything, including their dad’s death. And then one night Matt feels it, the loss. Eric is gone. Everyone says it’s suicide, including the police. Matt, however, knows that Eric wouldn’t kill himself - and he sets out to prove it.
Leah always had a crush on Matt and now, she is bound to Eric and will do whatever she can to help Matt figure out what happened to his twin.
“This Heart of Mine” by C.C. Hunter was a sweet, endearing, easy read that captured my attention quickly and held it. There were times when the novel was serious, sad and incredible sweet. In addition, the subject matter was very important and was handled deftly by the author, while telling one heck of a story.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and C.C. Hunter for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads and Twitter on 1.8.18.
*Will be published on Amazon on 2.27.18.
April 5, 2018
this book is everything i love about contemporaries - heartwarming, charming, and emotionally touching. but what i really enjoyed about it was the mystery/thriller aspect of it. it was unexpected and only elevated the books storyline. i really enjoyed the interaction between matt and leah - the relationship was so well developed, which doesnt happen very often in YA. i loved this book!
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
September 26, 2021
Thank you so much to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for allowing me to read and review this heartwarming story by C.C. Hunter. This is the story of transplant recipient Leah’s struggle through critical illness and the emotional journey she makes as life suddenly becomes more than just about surviving one day at a time, and also Matt, whose brother’s heart was the organ she received.
Leah is a girl who has resigned herself to her fate. Statistically, she knows there is a good chance she won’t have too many tomorrows, and doesn’t want to hurt those she will leave behind. This story shines in its study of emotional recovery. What do you do when suddenly, you might be able to live? Is it so easy to turn around and embrace life with a smile on your face, or will such a close call with death haunt you?
Matt is an interesting counterpoint. Having just lost his father, his family is in a dark place. When his twin brother is found dead months later, it’s assumed to be suicide. But Matt can’t let it go. Is he trapped in his own grief, unable to accept the possibility that depression could have taken his brother’s life, or has something far more sinister occurred that the police refuse to investigate? The way Hunter crafts the two families… one dealing with the fear of loss while the other deals with the aftermath, is cleverly done, and the romance between Matt and Leah is sweet. A definite great read.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book.
Leah is a girl who has resigned herself to her fate. Statistically, she knows there is a good chance she won’t have too many tomorrows, and doesn’t want to hurt those she will leave behind. This story shines in its study of emotional recovery. What do you do when suddenly, you might be able to live? Is it so easy to turn around and embrace life with a smile on your face, or will such a close call with death haunt you?
Matt is an interesting counterpoint. Having just lost his father, his family is in a dark place. When his twin brother is found dead months later, it’s assumed to be suicide. But Matt can’t let it go. Is he trapped in his own grief, unable to accept the possibility that depression could have taken his brother’s life, or has something far more sinister occurred that the police refuse to investigate? The way Hunter crafts the two families… one dealing with the fear of loss while the other deals with the aftermath, is cleverly done, and the romance between Matt and Leah is sweet. A definite great read.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book.
January 1, 2024
pre-read thoughts:
✏ ₊˚•
⤷ i saw a video with gracie abrams and matt sturniolo as the fcs for leah and matt so now we're here 🧍
post-read thoughts: ✏ ₊˚•
⤷ the driver era wrote the line “just hold me till sunrise, let's save the goodbye, these feelings are hard to find in this heart of mine” for leahmatt btw | rtc ❤🩹
⤷ i saw a video with gracie abrams and matt sturniolo as the fcs for leah and matt so now we're here 🧍
post-read thoughts: ✏ ₊˚•
⤷ the driver era wrote the line “just hold me till sunrise, let's save the goodbye, these feelings are hard to find in this heart of mine” for leahmatt btw | rtc ❤🩹
January 27, 2019
FEELINGS THIS HEART OF MINE MADE ME FEEL
1. Sympathy - This book is about a girl who goes under a heart transplant, and I ached for her so much! You can clearly see the struggles she has to go through, the daily (never-ending) maintenance, and the anxiety. The author's note also says that this story is true-to-life, and I think my own heart just died a little reading it.
2. The awww! feeling
I felt this because of the beautiful family dynamics and friendships in this book. Because of her condition, Leah's parents are overprotective--but in a sweet, not-overbearing way. She also has an amazing female best friend who stays with her through thick and thin. They have fights and misunderstandings, but their genuine love for each other prevails in the end.
3. Boredom
There's a mystery in This Heart of Mine regarding the heart donor Eric's death. After a bit of foreshadowing, you can easily put two-and-two together. It was way too predictable for me, and this book would've been a hit without this aspect.
4. Admiration
Like I said, our heroine Leah goes through so much in this novel, yet she stayed strong through it all, and pushed herself to do things she wouldn't normally have done. Aside from little life goals like getting a kiss from her long-time crush, Leah goes through way more. She puts herself in danger for others, constantly fights for her life, and still generally is a good friend and daughter.
5. Confusion
I'm not sure how I feel about the romance part of the book! There are some parts where I totally ship Leah and kind-hearted Matt, but there are also times where I kind of just want them to separate. What I mean is, there are a bunch of cutesy and sweet scenes between the two, but sometimes the romance was too overly-done.
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1. Sympathy - This book is about a girl who goes under a heart transplant, and I ached for her so much! You can clearly see the struggles she has to go through, the daily (never-ending) maintenance, and the anxiety. The author's note also says that this story is true-to-life, and I think my own heart just died a little reading it.
"Mom and Dad have been pushing me to get out some. Socialize."
2. The awww! feeling
I felt this because of the beautiful family dynamics and friendships in this book. Because of her condition, Leah's parents are overprotective--but in a sweet, not-overbearing way. She also has an amazing female best friend who stays with her through thick and thin. They have fights and misunderstandings, but their genuine love for each other prevails in the end.
3. Boredom
There's a mystery in This Heart of Mine regarding the heart donor Eric's death. After a bit of foreshadowing, you can easily put two-and-two together. It was way too predictable for me, and this book would've been a hit without this aspect.
"But my grandmother used to say it was okay to see someone in a beautiful dress and think, I want a dress like hers. But it wasn't okay to think, I want a dress like hers and I want her to have a wart on her nose."
4. Admiration
Like I said, our heroine Leah goes through so much in this novel, yet she stayed strong through it all, and pushed herself to do things she wouldn't normally have done. Aside from little life goals like getting a kiss from her long-time crush, Leah goes through way more. She puts herself in danger for others, constantly fights for her life, and still generally is a good friend and daughter.
5. Confusion
I'm not sure how I feel about the romance part of the book! There are some parts where I totally ship Leah and kind-hearted Matt, but there are also times where I kind of just want them to separate. What I mean is, there are a bunch of cutesy and sweet scenes between the two, but sometimes the romance was too overly-done.
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February 21, 2018
“You’ve got a future, Leah. Plan for it. Figure out who you are and what you want. Then go do it. Do it large. It’s people like you who make a big splash. Don’t be afraid to take a chance. Win or lose. That’s what life is, a bunch of chances.”
An ARC has been kindly given by the St Martin’s Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest opinion
My rating: 4,5 stars
I loved Shadow Falls series its spinoffs. C.C. Hunter became one of these authors I kept recommending for someone looking for YA with great plots, relatable characters and lots of humor. I even pushed the books on my kids and these teenagers fell in love with her stories.
When I spotted This Heart of Mine on Netgalley I requested the ARC and crossed my fingers. The synopsis really called to me. I had not read contemporary CC Hunter and was really intrigued. Would she meet my expectations?
Well I read the book in one sitting. I simply could not put it down.
This story is:
-Compelling.
We want to know first if Leah will get a new heart. Then will she reject it or keep it? More than that you want to know if Eric killed himself or was killed. If he was murdered who is the murderer and why?
-Insightful.
Leah has changed and she wants to discover who the new Leah is. It makes you think about what’s important in life. How do you want to live? Just one moment at a time or do you want to project your dreams and build your future?
-Inspiring.
Leah never complained. She was really admirable as she accepted her fate and tried to spare her beloved ones. Then when she was offered a second or was it a third chance again she tried to protect her family and friends because it’s not so easy! She also put Matt above herself. If she had worries they took a backseat when he was sad or angry or just needed a friend to listen.
-Instructive.
C.C. Hunter knows her topic. In her personal parting note we understand why she mastered all the intricacies of organs transplant. Not only the “mechanical” biological aspects with immune suppressants and risks to catch illnesses. She addressed less known after effects of organ transplants.
-Emotional and heartbreaking (sorry this is an easy one but it’s true).
You would think being granted another chance at life would mean everything. That life is now going to be all rainbows and unicorns. False! Leah had to battle with guilt. She lived because another one has lost his life. How fair is that?
She is better but not out of the woods yet and every time her blood pressure was a little high or …it was stressful. Would she begin rejecting this heart? Would her parents go through this hell again?
“I start counting. One. Two. Three. I get to ten. There’s no effort needed. Tears are falling from my cheeks. I’m fine. Then again, I’m not fine. I’m afraid. I’m afraid of dying. I put a hand over my mouth to keep the cry from escaping. I don’t want to go back. Haven’t I already been there? Forced myself into accepting death. Now is it too much to ask that I can accept living? That I can count on it? Plan for it.”
And now that she is better she is seen by some others like a “freak” or “the girl that was dying”.
“A little voice echoes in my head. Welcome back to high school. It’s the world of cliques, snobby chicks, and an occasional dick.”
Leah was also looking for who she was. What emotions were her own? What does she want in life now that infinite possibilities are offered again?
Grief is one of the main topics. Grief and death.
Leah had to accept her death and that’s not what a seventeen girl should think about.
Matt and his mom had to make peace with the death of Eric when not so long ago they already had been hit by a tragedy.
How do you grieve? How do you accept? Who do you speak to?
-Light and funny sometimes as C.C. Hunter writes wonderful banter.
The humor was part of this story even with this grave topic. It reminds us that humor is the best weapon to go on in life hard times or not.
Cuteness is also C.C Hunter’s trademark. It’s the beginning of young love. When you tiptoe around the other. When you hope and try clumsily to play this dance at first young love. You have the Uber cute quarterback flirting with the beautiful book nerd. Glances are exchanges, hands are held…
“Oh, I . . . I thought you were going to kiss me.” I hear my own words and wonder where I got the balls to say that. His eyes widen. Not in an oh-crap way, but in a surprised kind of way. “Do you want me to kiss you?” I grin. “If you’re Matt, I’ve wanted you to kiss me since seventh grade.”
-Hopeful.
Leah has another chance at life.
“Through the pain and uncertainty of my whole freaking life, a thought hits. I’m going to live. I’m not just going to graduate from high school. I’m going to read way more than one hundred books. I’m going to date boys again. I’m going to experience more toe-curling, blow-my-mind kisses. I can stop accepting and start hoping. It’s allowed now. Suddenly I’m past ready for the healing to be over. I want to start living. I’m tired of dying.”
Needless to say I experienced all the emotional spectrum with this unputdownable novel!
Added bonuses:
-The characters were relatable and loveable. Leah was incredibly strong and inspiring. Matt was the boyfriend you want to read about in a YA novel: handsome, smart, caring, kind, dedicated and loyal.
Leah’s best friend Brandy was also THE BFF you wish for your kids. Always supportive even when she does not share your opinion. Ready to listen every second and be your sidekick if you need someone. Not afraid to have your back against other friends and coming to see you at the hospital even if some aspects freaked her out.
-The pace was just right: not too fast not too slow and the plot had twists secrets and suspense when you needed them.
I even got some supernatural aspect with the special twin connection and Leah’s dreams.
Recommend it? Hell yes!
Have you read it? Or any other C.C. Hunter's books?
Thanks for reading!
Sophie
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March 18, 2018
This Heart of Mine was such a touching story. It revolved around family, friendships, sacrifices, new beginnings, first love and so much more. I just know that so many people are going to absolutely love this emotional story! I wish there wasn't a but.......but I wasn't able to connect to any of the characters. I tried again and again, and continually failed all the way till that very last page. I felt so heartless, especially since I got tears in my eyes reading the author's letter to the reader, at the end of the book. Sigh. So I closed the book wishing that I could have felt that same emotion towards Matt and Leah.
Leah's thoughts and words could be so heartbreaking. Yes she's pragmatic about the fact that her odds of getting a new heart are low, but it still was shocking to see how she viewed the world. I was hoping to resonate with her realness, but hopefully others will. And while there were some heavy moments before her heart transplant, there's this one moment that was filled with nothing but brightness. Leah ended up having a study session with a boy named Matt. She's had a crush on him forever, and after studying they shared one of the sweetest kisses. But after that moment, they both go back to their own lives. Leah knew she was fated to die and Matt had too many family problems at home to start a relationship with Leah. Yet both of their lives become irrevocably changed in the near future.
One month later, Matt's twin brother died and Leah, who was in desperate need of a heart transplant, received his heart. Every one believed that Matt's twin killed himself, but Matt believed his brother was murdered. And after, they both started to have these dreams that ended up weaving their lives together. So when the pieces of their dreams started to come together, they both found themselves in the middle of a huge mystery. I'm not really a suspenseful person, but it was a fun mystery to figure out. While I had some guesses here and there, 3/4s of the way into the story I figured out exactly what happened, and I was excited for the characters to catch up with my knowledge.
Both Matt and Leah were definitely likeable and I enjoyed alternating between the two of them. So I was grasping why I couldn't connect to them. I'm not sure if it's because I had just finished an extremely emotional book, and I was still partially hung up on that story? Oh, I don't know. But what I do know is that it made me SO sad. This was the type of book that should have easily pulled me in and broken my heart and then mended it perfectly back together. So while this one didn't work for me, I'd still recommend to give it a try. And here's hoping you absolutely love it!
I grin. “If you’re Matt, I’ve wanted you to kiss me since seventh grade.”
His gaze slides lowers to my mouth and lingers. “Is your heart strong enough?”
I burst out laughing. “Are you that good of a kisser?”
“Maybe.” A smile crinkles the corners of his eyes. He leans down. His lips are against mine, soft and sweet.
Leah's thoughts and words could be so heartbreaking. Yes she's pragmatic about the fact that her odds of getting a new heart are low, but it still was shocking to see how she viewed the world. I was hoping to resonate with her realness, but hopefully others will. And while there were some heavy moments before her heart transplant, there's this one moment that was filled with nothing but brightness. Leah ended up having a study session with a boy named Matt. She's had a crush on him forever, and after studying they shared one of the sweetest kisses. But after that moment, they both go back to their own lives. Leah knew she was fated to die and Matt had too many family problems at home to start a relationship with Leah. Yet both of their lives become irrevocably changed in the near future.
Gasping for air, the fear, the raw, ugly panic I felt in the dream, hangs on with sharp claws. My heart thuds against my rib cage. I can’t breathe. - Leah
One month later, Matt's twin brother died and Leah, who was in desperate need of a heart transplant, received his heart. Every one believed that Matt's twin killed himself, but Matt believed his brother was murdered. And after, they both started to have these dreams that ended up weaving their lives together. So when the pieces of their dreams started to come together, they both found themselves in the middle of a huge mystery. I'm not really a suspenseful person, but it was a fun mystery to figure out. While I had some guesses here and there, 3/4s of the way into the story I figured out exactly what happened, and I was excited for the characters to catch up with my knowledge.
“Why would I hate you?”
She unfurls her fingers and brushes the tear away. “Because I’m alive and he’s not.”
Both Matt and Leah were definitely likeable and I enjoyed alternating between the two of them. So I was grasping why I couldn't connect to them. I'm not sure if it's because I had just finished an extremely emotional book, and I was still partially hung up on that story? Oh, I don't know. But what I do know is that it made me SO sad. This was the type of book that should have easily pulled me in and broken my heart and then mended it perfectly back together. So while this one didn't work for me, I'd still recommend to give it a try. And here's hoping you absolutely love it!
*ARC kindly provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
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September 22, 2025
This Heart of Mine is one of those YA books that I believe will resonate with teens and adults alike. This book is filled with angst and emotion as Leah and Matt struggle with not only the normal challenges of being a teenager and going to high school, but with more difficult issues most of us can't imagine dealing with as adults. What would you do if everyone is telling you your twin committed suicide, even the evidence, but you were determined to prove it was murder? How would you learn to live a life you had already accepted you wouldn't get the chance to? Leah and Matt not only supported each other during these challenges, but fell in love right in the middle of them.
I could tell C.C. Hunter put her heart and soul into this book because the emotions the characters felt rolled off the pages and had me feeling every ounce of hurt, love, and anger they felt. I could go on and on all day about how much I loved this book, but I think you should just one-click it and share in the amazingness with me!
I voluntarily received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I could tell C.C. Hunter put her heart and soul into this book because the emotions the characters felt rolled off the pages and had me feeling every ounce of hurt, love, and anger they felt. I could go on and on all day about how much I loved this book, but I think you should just one-click it and share in the amazingness with me!
I voluntarily received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2018
When I was approved to read This Heart of Mine by C.C. Hunter on NetGalley, I was pretty excited. The summary sounded rather intriguing: a girl awaiting a new heart, a murder-mystery and a cute romance. What's not to be enticed by? Then, however, I began reading and boy did I want to DNF this so bad. My sisters pushed me to finish, even if it was simply so I could knock another off my 2018 Reading Challenge. I found the characters to be full of overdone-YA-characteristics with absolutely no personality. (Unless you count love interest, Matt, whose favourite things in all the world is boobs and sex and butts and clothes that hug a girl's curves.)
Let's begin with the protagonist, Leah. She's oh so quirky and totally different to all the other girls because wow, she reads books! Like, how unique, right? Surely that means she's a true diamond in the ruff! I must admit, that in the first few pages, she seemed alright - not a great, fully-three-dimensional character, but somewhat acceptable. And then she meets Matt. Or is it his identical twin brother Eric? Who knows. () And this is where things begin to go downhill... fast.
They barely know each other, this is the first time they've even properly talked, she can't even tell which one of the twins he is, yet does that matter? Nah, they'll just suck one another's faces off in the hallway of her house. (Where little do they know, Leah's mother is watching, because... of course, that happens.) Then, once the make-out session is over with, Leah slips Matt (or is it Eric?) her phone number and eagerly awaits his call for the next month.
Look, I get it, she's shut up in her house with an artificial heart and clearly, there are no boys for her to get busy with, but yet we're lead to believe that Leah's a super shy, awkward nerd who was way too embarrassed and self-conscious to even hold hands with her ex-boyfriend in school. Yet this same, super shy, awkward nerd, has no qualms (not even one?) about making out with a guy she's barely spoken two words to...
I'm all for women owning their sexuality and embracing their desires but how can you create a painfully awkward character and then have her make out with a practical stranger? (Which, by the way, is something she didn't even have the guts to do with her ex-boyfriend - who is someone she'd known for years). And then, and this is the cherry on top, after this complete characteristic change, Leah is right back to being the painfully shy and awkward book nerd she was ten pages ago.
The whole event just made no sense. At all. She's either way too shy to tell her mom she doesn't like the colour pink or she's brave and bold enough to lay one on a practical stranger. And I wish that was my only issue with this book, but oh boy, it's not. Not by a long shot. All that I just mentioned... was simply the first chapter. out of forty-one.
I won't go into full detail with all the grievances I have with This Heart of Mine because we'd be here until kingdom comes. Instead, I think these genuine quotes say enough.
- "Light beams out and Leah steps out in a glow, making her looks almost surreal. He stops. The door shuts and now its dark again. The porch light pops on. Spotlighting her. She keeps walking, toward him. She's so damn pretty, his breath catches in his throat." -- Matt, Chapter Six.
[This writing, though... truly spot on. 10/10 would recommend. 5 stars. Everyone else goes home, we've found the World's Best Descriptionist.]
- "She's wearing soft-to-touch-looking faded jeans that aren't tight but hug her every curve. The red sweater she's wearing does to her top what the jeans do to her bottom." -- Matt, Chapter Ten.
[I mean... come on.]
- "He keeps switching his focus to the road, to her. She's a better view." -- Matt, Chapter Ten.
[Who cares about road safety and not hitting someone with your car when a pretty girl is sat beside you, right?]
- "Just like that, he's back. Back in her house. Back to the second before he got the best kiss of his life. And like before, she's against him. Her chest moves to take in air. She's close. He likes close. He can smell her hair, her skin, her breath. He can feel her breasts against his chest." -- Matt, Chapter Fourteen.
[I honestly have no words.]
- "'How did you know I had PE?' Crap, he should have kept that one to himself. Or maybe not. 'I uh. . . noticed you looked good in the gym shorts and tank top. So once or twice a week, I'd find a reason to leave class and walk through the gym.' She laughs. 'You were checking me out? Seriously?'" -- Leah and Matt, Chapter Sixteen.
[This whole paragraph gives me the fucking creeps. Like... in what world is this cute? In what world is a guy ditching class twice a week for the sole purpose of checking out a fellow classmate cute? That isn't hot or sexy at all. It's just creepy and perverted. Holy fuck.]
As you can see, there are oh so many instances of just weird and creepy moments and there are so many more; but again, I can't list them all because I'd never stop writing and besides, writing those ones out and being forced to think about the various scenes already have me wanting to leave and never come back.
Anyway, the whole premise of this book is to find a killer who may or may not exist. It's a mystery. Did the victim kill himself or was he brutally murdered? Unfortunately, there's about one percent sleuthing involved. Instead of actually going out looking for clues, Matt and Leah are more focused on the recurring dreams they're getting which they believe the victim is sending to them from the grave. And that's all that happens for like... thirty chapters, I swear to god. The book follows a routine: Leah wakes up, takes her pills, goes to school, makes out with Matt, ditches her book club and her friends for a boy, go home, greet parents, take Matt's dog on a walk with him, talk about the dreams and their murder suspect for the rest of the evening, grab dinner together, talk about the dream some more, then rinse and repeat. For... thirty... chapters...
Another thing that got to me was when the whole mystery was over when a sort-of-witness came forward and the killer was unmasked. Leah was out there, very much in possible danger, yet nothing happens... The killer has already been arrested and she's saved by the lead detective who did-little-to-nothing and Matt (obviously). Words cannot describe how bummed out I was when the super anticipated action-fight-for-survival scene never came. I expected Leah to have to run for her life, show him what she's made of... but no. Obviously, Matt saves the day and nothing at all happens.
Until her body begins to reject her new heart and she almost dies. Which is fine because after three or four pages she's fine again. No anticipation of oooh, is the main character going to die, just when everything sorts itself out? Will there be no happy ending for her? Nah, she's fine. Of course, she is. Nothing at all happens in this book except for Matt and Leah making out so why on earth would anything happen to break them apart? It's ridiculous. It's boring. It's awful. I'm so glad that I never have to read this again.
To put my ridiculously long review simply: This Heart of Mine is sexist, boring, creepy, cringy, and a complete and utter waste of time. The cover is cute though.
Let's begin with the protagonist, Leah. She's oh so quirky and totally different to all the other girls because wow, she reads books! Like, how unique, right? Surely that means she's a true diamond in the ruff! I must admit, that in the first few pages, she seemed alright - not a great, fully-three-dimensional character, but somewhat acceptable. And then she meets Matt. Or is it his identical twin brother Eric? Who knows. () And this is where things begin to go downhill... fast.
They barely know each other, this is the first time they've even properly talked, she can't even tell which one of the twins he is, yet does that matter? Nah, they'll just suck one another's faces off in the hallway of her house. (Where little do they know, Leah's mother is watching, because... of course, that happens.) Then, once the make-out session is over with, Leah slips Matt (or is it Eric?) her phone number and eagerly awaits his call for the next month.
Look, I get it, she's shut up in her house with an artificial heart and clearly, there are no boys for her to get busy with, but yet we're lead to believe that Leah's a super shy, awkward nerd who was way too embarrassed and self-conscious to even hold hands with her ex-boyfriend in school. Yet this same, super shy, awkward nerd, has no qualms (not even one?) about making out with a guy she's barely spoken two words to...
I'm all for women owning their sexuality and embracing their desires but how can you create a painfully awkward character and then have her make out with a practical stranger? (Which, by the way, is something she didn't even have the guts to do with her ex-boyfriend - who is someone she'd known for years). And then, and this is the cherry on top, after this complete characteristic change, Leah is right back to being the painfully shy and awkward book nerd she was ten pages ago.
The whole event just made no sense. At all. She's either way too shy to tell her mom she doesn't like the colour pink or she's brave and bold enough to lay one on a practical stranger. And I wish that was my only issue with this book, but oh boy, it's not. Not by a long shot. All that I just mentioned... was simply the first chapter. out of forty-one.
I won't go into full detail with all the grievances I have with This Heart of Mine because we'd be here until kingdom comes. Instead, I think these genuine quotes say enough.
- "Light beams out and Leah steps out in a glow, making her looks almost surreal. He stops. The door shuts and now its dark again. The porch light pops on. Spotlighting her. She keeps walking, toward him. She's so damn pretty, his breath catches in his throat." -- Matt, Chapter Six.
[This writing, though... truly spot on. 10/10 would recommend. 5 stars. Everyone else goes home, we've found the World's Best Descriptionist.]
- "She's wearing soft-to-touch-looking faded jeans that aren't tight but hug her every curve. The red sweater she's wearing does to her top what the jeans do to her bottom." -- Matt, Chapter Ten.
[I mean... come on.]
- "He keeps switching his focus to the road, to her. She's a better view." -- Matt, Chapter Ten.
[Who cares about road safety and not hitting someone with your car when a pretty girl is sat beside you, right?]
- "Just like that, he's back. Back in her house. Back to the second before he got the best kiss of his life. And like before, she's against him. Her chest moves to take in air. She's close. He likes close. He can smell her hair, her skin, her breath. He can feel her breasts against his chest." -- Matt, Chapter Fourteen.
[I honestly have no words.]
- "'How did you know I had PE?' Crap, he should have kept that one to himself. Or maybe not. 'I uh. . . noticed you looked good in the gym shorts and tank top. So once or twice a week, I'd find a reason to leave class and walk through the gym.' She laughs. 'You were checking me out? Seriously?'" -- Leah and Matt, Chapter Sixteen.
[This whole paragraph gives me the fucking creeps. Like... in what world is this cute? In what world is a guy ditching class twice a week for the sole purpose of checking out a fellow classmate cute? That isn't hot or sexy at all. It's just creepy and perverted. Holy fuck.]
As you can see, there are oh so many instances of just weird and creepy moments and there are so many more; but again, I can't list them all because I'd never stop writing and besides, writing those ones out and being forced to think about the various scenes already have me wanting to leave and never come back.
Anyway, the whole premise of this book is to find a killer who may or may not exist. It's a mystery. Did the victim kill himself or was he brutally murdered? Unfortunately, there's about one percent sleuthing involved. Instead of actually going out looking for clues, Matt and Leah are more focused on the recurring dreams they're getting which they believe the victim is sending to them from the grave. And that's all that happens for like... thirty chapters, I swear to god. The book follows a routine: Leah wakes up, takes her pills, goes to school, makes out with Matt, ditches her book club and her friends for a boy, go home, greet parents, take Matt's dog on a walk with him, talk about the dreams and their murder suspect for the rest of the evening, grab dinner together, talk about the dream some more, then rinse and repeat. For... thirty... chapters...
Another thing that got to me was when the whole mystery was over when a sort-of-witness came forward and the killer was unmasked. Leah was out there, very much in possible danger, yet nothing happens... The killer has already been arrested and she's saved by the lead detective who did-little-to-nothing and Matt (obviously). Words cannot describe how bummed out I was when the super anticipated action-fight-for-survival scene never came. I expected Leah to have to run for her life, show him what she's made of... but no. Obviously, Matt saves the day and nothing at all happens.
Until her body begins to reject her new heart and she almost dies. Which is fine because after three or four pages she's fine again. No anticipation of oooh, is the main character going to die, just when everything sorts itself out? Will there be no happy ending for her? Nah, she's fine. Of course, she is. Nothing at all happens in this book except for Matt and Leah making out so why on earth would anything happen to break them apart? It's ridiculous. It's boring. It's awful. I'm so glad that I never have to read this again.
To put my ridiculously long review simply: This Heart of Mine is sexist, boring, creepy, cringy, and a complete and utter waste of time. The cover is cute though.
February 14, 2018
I really wanted to enjoy more this book... And let's say the later half was more of a 2.5, but that would make it a 2.25, so it's still 2 stars.
Leah has always been into Matt, whom she felt was out of her league even before she fell sick, was presented an artificial heart and an expiration date. Until one day he's tutoring Math to her one moment and they are kissing the next... Except he never calls again. A month later, Matt finds out his twin brother Eric and best friend is dead. Thanks to his talk with Leah before he convinces his mother to donate the organs. He just didn't expect they would be given to Leah of all people. Now they are connected by Eric's heart and feelings, a scream that the case of his death is far from closed. And yet, they just have each other to talk about it.
Phew, this was long. No, I don't mean the summary. The book was too long. Not only literally long for a YA novel but it also felt like the chapters wouldn't end. In the beginning, I'd read 15% and fall dead tired, because they had felt like 40, 50%. I do feel I'm partially to blame, I started this book looking for a lighter read, so you can see I wasn't on my most patient moment. But this needed serious editing.
To be honest, lack of a better editor sums up my complaint. I didn't love any characters but they didn't have any major flaws in my opinion—I do wonder about Cassie's line of thoughts but that's something else. I think the beginning and the conclusion were also okay. The focus on donation, on how much good it can do and also on Leah's feelings and treatment, that was all amazing—and in the end, I found out Hunter has had to deal with it in her family, so no one can ever accuse her of not knowing what she's talking about.
I'd say my favorite part was the mystery. That kept me wondering about the ending enough not to give up on the book. Plus, the resolution wasn't dumb—I can't opine on details like the police work and all, but I did think pieces fell into place.
That said, I don't think many people would have enough patience to go through it all. The book never really decided if it's a teenage romance (it even includes lots of safe-sex talk), if it's a supernatural story (although it is wonderful how Leah starts dreaming about Eric's death, it never gave me enough thrill), if it's a family story (I loved the moments with Leah's family, Matt's and Eric's love toward each other and their mother, but it hardly sustained a book), if it's a mystery thriller (possible murderer, lots of question, but the plot twist and the action scenes were beyond weak)...
In other words, it could have been great since it has substance, but it does a poor job in entertaining, because it aimed everywhere
Honest review based on an ARC provided by Netgalley. Many thanks to the publisher for this opportunity.
Leah has always been into Matt, whom she felt was out of her league even before she fell sick, was presented an artificial heart and an expiration date. Until one day he's tutoring Math to her one moment and they are kissing the next... Except he never calls again. A month later, Matt finds out his twin brother Eric and best friend is dead. Thanks to his talk with Leah before he convinces his mother to donate the organs. He just didn't expect they would be given to Leah of all people. Now they are connected by Eric's heart and feelings, a scream that the case of his death is far from closed. And yet, they just have each other to talk about it.
Phew, this was long. No, I don't mean the summary. The book was too long. Not only literally long for a YA novel but it also felt like the chapters wouldn't end. In the beginning, I'd read 15% and fall dead tired, because they had felt like 40, 50%. I do feel I'm partially to blame, I started this book looking for a lighter read, so you can see I wasn't on my most patient moment. But this needed serious editing.
To be honest, lack of a better editor sums up my complaint. I didn't love any characters but they didn't have any major flaws in my opinion—I do wonder about Cassie's line of thoughts but that's something else. I think the beginning and the conclusion were also okay. The focus on donation, on how much good it can do and also on Leah's feelings and treatment, that was all amazing—and in the end, I found out Hunter has had to deal with it in her family, so no one can ever accuse her of not knowing what she's talking about.
I'd say my favorite part was the mystery. That kept me wondering about the ending enough not to give up on the book. Plus, the resolution wasn't dumb—I can't opine on details like the police work and all, but I did think pieces fell into place.
That said, I don't think many people would have enough patience to go through it all. The book never really decided if it's a teenage romance (it even includes lots of safe-sex talk), if it's a supernatural story (although it is wonderful how Leah starts dreaming about Eric's death, it never gave me enough thrill), if it's a family story (I loved the moments with Leah's family, Matt's and Eric's love toward each other and their mother, but it hardly sustained a book), if it's a mystery thriller (possible murderer, lots of question, but the plot twist and the action scenes were beyond weak)...
In other words, it could have been great since it has substance, but it does a poor job in entertaining, because it aimed everywhere
Honest review based on an ARC provided by Netgalley. Many thanks to the publisher for this opportunity.
March 9, 2019
3.5
Review to come
Review to come
March 4, 2018
I absolutely loved it. I was waiting for it to be released for so long and it did not disappoint.
February 20, 2018
Check out more reviews @ Perspective of a Writer...
17-year-old Leah’s artificial heart in a backpack is keeping her alive… for now. With her rare blood type, a transplant isn’t likely… until suddenly there it is. Except she discovers the boy who gave her life back is a boy from her school who they say killed himself. Plagued with dreams since the transplant, she seeks out the dead boy’s brother and learns he doesn’t believe it was suicide.
The short review...
I read two other fantasy books at the same time as this contemporary one and this is the book that captured my heart! You bond with Leah because she was just a normal, under the radar girl in high school and then her heart literally breaks. She works to accept that she's going to die and lives for each day... only for a tragedy to save her future. She comes out the other side not only ALIVE but changed... Maneuvering those changes is what this book is and it's beautiful!
I enjoy fusion stories and this one has that taste... a coming of age (grappling with loss, grief and death), a romance, and a mystery all rolled into one relatable story! Matt was someone I worried for and Brandy was a friend I adored along with Leah. And Leah's parents were clear and present! This has this balanced brilliance that showcases the details that made the world real. I LOVED the end, end and how it tied up the different threads from the different story arcs... it was satisfying, unexpectedly so for the heavy subject matters...
Cover & Title grade -> C-
I am NOT a fan of this nondescript cover. The design is so plain and stark it seems like a straight up contemporary romance and the cover doesn’t clue us in there’s more… One of the best selling features of the book is the mystery entwined in the story as well as the message for the future than any non-broken hearted person can relate to as well... The cover just doesn't communicate the story's touching special-ness.
Why should you read this book too?
-The sex talk and presenting it as a choice.
Adult readers have been screaming for more sex in YA books for several years now. This book succeeded in delivering just what they wanted... A girl goes through her insecurities while she decides to have sex, proper safety measures are discussed and prepared for pregnancy, etc. Sex talk happens with her parents and her best friend... And the love interest waits until she's ready.
-The importance of being an organ donor.
I could tell this was a topic close to the author's heart and she reveals so in a note afterward. I read another book with organ donation at its heart and I was disgusted at how the subject was portrayed... This was quite good in how it portrayed the steps you have to take in after care and how your life is saved but it isn't a perfect fix. Then there is the OTHER SIDE with the family who donated an organ because a family member died! You get the complete picture...
-The mysterious suicide mystery.
The mystery wasn't hard to figure out but the way the evidence came to light really starts to make you waiver and keeps you guessing. Using the frame of suicide to juxtaposition Leah and her body failing her worked so well. Suicide devastates those left behind. The mystery really imparted this message strongly. I love that no religious bashing was needed to make this a heartfelt story of empowerment and life!
As a Writer...
I am a forensics junkie. My friends and family and I LOVE a good mystery and procedurals are our bread and butter. Evidence is pretty hard to fake. You have to be a really cool cucumber to get away with a crime or a real sociopath because so many of the little details will give you away.
Some of the details of Eric's death were glossed over so that you couldn't be sure what happened. If Matt really had access to the case file then there wouldn't have been as big a margin for error. For example, why was Eric out at that park? Most people DO NOT commit suicide in some random area... I STILL don't understand why Eric died there even after everything was revealed... perhaps because a park is a great place for two kids to go to make out while they try to solve a murder...
Despite the shady details and the loose research I quite enjoyed the mystery found at the heart of This Heart of Mine! And the romance was oh so sweet... Matt and Leah had a connection that we all hope to find one day... one that pulls you through grief and loss and helps you live again.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Authenticity
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Writing Style
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Plot & Pacing
⋆ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ World Building
BOTTOM LINE: Organ Donation Mystery Love Story Winner!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review. It has not influenced my opinions.
______________________
You can find this review and many others on my book blog @ Perspective of a Writer. See my special perspective at the bottom of my reviews under the typewriter...
May 9, 2018
Well, that was... cute. Cute characters, cute romance. I liked the paranormal elements, if you can call them that, too (what with Leah and Matt having the same dreams and Leah feeling Eric's emotions). The first and last 10% of this book were the strongest parts, in my opinion, and had me on the verge of tears a couple of times.
What I didn't much care for were the mystery (rather lame, drawn out and anticlimactic) and the author's style of writing (very simplistic, short sentences, a little choppy at times).
All in all an enjoyable read, albeit probably better suited for a younger audience than myself.
ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2018
RATING: 3.9/5
*Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for allowing me to read and review this*
This is truly a heartwarming story about love, loss and moving on. I related a lot to the main carácter, the way she thinks (and the fact she's also a reader!) were just familiar to me. It's always nice to know you're not the only one feeling a specific way or thinking a specific thing. I could tell that this story came from a personal place in the author's heart, and that just made the experience all the more enjoyable.
Overall I really liked it and I'll be sure to check out more titles from C.C Hunter in the future :)
*Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for allowing me to read and review this*
This is truly a heartwarming story about love, loss and moving on. I related a lot to the main carácter, the way she thinks (and the fact she's also a reader!) were just familiar to me. It's always nice to know you're not the only one feeling a specific way or thinking a specific thing. I could tell that this story came from a personal place in the author's heart, and that just made the experience all the more enjoyable.
Overall I really liked it and I'll be sure to check out more titles from C.C Hunter in the future :)
April 2, 2018
The first thing you should know is that this book is perfect.
Yes, I’m totally serious.
What I absolutely loved about THIS HEART OF MINE is that it is set in Houston, talks about heart transplants, and follows identical twins. I am a Houstonian, a pre-med student hoping to become a heart surgeon, and am a HUGE fan of twin stories. Conclusion? THIS BOOK WAS MADE FOR ME. It totally was. Don’t deny me this fact.
In a nutshell, THIS HEART OF MINE follows Leah, who receives the heart of her classmate and proceeds to have creepy dreams that seem to be coming from him. (<— which sounds sO COOL OH MY GOD). Basically, Leah and the donor’s twin, Matt, try to figure out what’s going on.
Leah and Matt work fabulously together. They spend time tryin to piece together their shared dreams and experiences in an effort to prove that Eric, Matt’s twin, did not commit suicide. There is the heavier side of things, such as dealing with Eric’s loss and Matt’s subsequent devastation, the hopeful side, and the lighter side. The novel is capable of presenting all three.
The supporting cast is amazing. I particularly love Dr Hughes, Leah’s doctor. She’s kind and friendly and understanding and fiercely passionate about her job. It was great to see a doctor portrayed in a positive manner, honestly, because sticking to procedures and therapy post-transplant surgery is often seen as tiresome and irrelevant, which wasn’t the case here.
I seriously could not predict how the events would play out. THIS HEART OF MINE could also, though not originally, function as a mystery novel. And much as I tried to put the pieces together, I was legit surprised by the ending.
And CC Hunter’s note at the end made the novel all the more special. She discusses how THIS HEART OF MINE was based on her husband’s dreams after having a kidney transplant, his and her reactions to that, and how, consequently, she calls this novel the book of her heart. (Pun? Not pun? We’ll never know)
All in all? Perfect book is perfect. Awesome as a contemporary and as a mystery novel, with an addicting plot line and a surprising ending. All the stars from me.
Thank you, Wednesday Books, for the finished copy!
Yes, I’m totally serious.
What I absolutely loved about THIS HEART OF MINE is that it is set in Houston, talks about heart transplants, and follows identical twins. I am a Houstonian, a pre-med student hoping to become a heart surgeon, and am a HUGE fan of twin stories. Conclusion? THIS BOOK WAS MADE FOR ME. It totally was. Don’t deny me this fact.
In a nutshell, THIS HEART OF MINE follows Leah, who receives the heart of her classmate and proceeds to have creepy dreams that seem to be coming from him. (<— which sounds sO COOL OH MY GOD). Basically, Leah and the donor’s twin, Matt, try to figure out what’s going on.
Leah and Matt work fabulously together. They spend time tryin to piece together their shared dreams and experiences in an effort to prove that Eric, Matt’s twin, did not commit suicide. There is the heavier side of things, such as dealing with Eric’s loss and Matt’s subsequent devastation, the hopeful side, and the lighter side. The novel is capable of presenting all three.
The supporting cast is amazing. I particularly love Dr Hughes, Leah’s doctor. She’s kind and friendly and understanding and fiercely passionate about her job. It was great to see a doctor portrayed in a positive manner, honestly, because sticking to procedures and therapy post-transplant surgery is often seen as tiresome and irrelevant, which wasn’t the case here.
I seriously could not predict how the events would play out. THIS HEART OF MINE could also, though not originally, function as a mystery novel. And much as I tried to put the pieces together, I was legit surprised by the ending.
And CC Hunter’s note at the end made the novel all the more special. She discusses how THIS HEART OF MINE was based on her husband’s dreams after having a kidney transplant, his and her reactions to that, and how, consequently, she calls this novel the book of her heart. (Pun? Not pun? We’ll never know)
All in all? Perfect book is perfect. Awesome as a contemporary and as a mystery novel, with an addicting plot line and a surprising ending. All the stars from me.
Thank you, Wednesday Books, for the finished copy!
May 5, 2018
3.5 STARS⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2
This was my first C.C. Hunter book and it wasn't too bad. I thought the concept of this book was pretty good.
Leah needs a heart transplant and from some sad circumstances, she gets that new heart from someone she used to go to school with.
Matt and his twin brother Eric lost their father about a year earlier. Both of them were taking it pretty hard, but living their lives. Eric is a bit different from something that he finds out about his girlfriend and a few months later is found dead. Everyone says it was a suicide, but Matt can't except that at all.
Matt finds out that Leah has Eric's heart and without ruining the book, they get together to try and figure out what really happened to Eric because they are both having some feelings about Eric.
What really griped me was the romance in this book. I get that Leah and Matt actually had crushes on each before she got sick, but when they do get together, all they did was think about sex and they didn't even go on an "official first date" yet. That was pretty annoying with the insta-love.
SPOILER AHEAD................Read at your own risk.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
OK so I knew who the killer was as soon as the person was introduced in the book. That was pretty lackluster for me. I enjoy trying to figure out the mystery of the book, but there weren't enough characters in the book for you not to know who the killer was.
Overall though, it was an enjoyable to read.
Right now, I've been donating my rare AB- blood since I was 17, but I think I might be considering becoming an organ donor too. It's something to think about!!!
This was my first C.C. Hunter book and it wasn't too bad. I thought the concept of this book was pretty good.
Leah needs a heart transplant and from some sad circumstances, she gets that new heart from someone she used to go to school with.
Matt and his twin brother Eric lost their father about a year earlier. Both of them were taking it pretty hard, but living their lives. Eric is a bit different from something that he finds out about his girlfriend and a few months later is found dead. Everyone says it was a suicide, but Matt can't except that at all.
Matt finds out that Leah has Eric's heart and without ruining the book, they get together to try and figure out what really happened to Eric because they are both having some feelings about Eric.
What really griped me was the romance in this book. I get that Leah and Matt actually had crushes on each before she got sick, but when they do get together, all they did was think about sex and they didn't even go on an "official first date" yet. That was pretty annoying with the insta-love.
SPOILER AHEAD................Read at your own risk.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
OK so I knew who the killer was as soon as the person was introduced in the book. That was pretty lackluster for me. I enjoy trying to figure out the mystery of the book, but there weren't enough characters in the book for you not to know who the killer was.
Overall though, it was an enjoyable to read.
Right now, I've been donating my rare AB- blood since I was 17, but I think I might be considering becoming an organ donor too. It's something to think about!!!
April 7, 2019
Ugh, I just love me some C. C. Hunter, and I especially loved this book since it was written a little more seriously than her Shadow Falls, Shadow Falls: After Dark, and The Mortician’s Daughter series, because it was definitely more real-like than supernatural. Anyway, C. C. Hunter did a wonderful job writing and developing her characters in “This Heart of Mine,” for I felt as if I was in the story itself. “This Heart of Mine” is very moving and inspirational for fiction, and I easily rate it 5 stars.
October 8, 2017
Full book review also posted on my blog here: https://lotsoflivres.com/2017/10/08/t...
Okay. Just wow. Where to start with this book?!
I’ve never actually read any of C.C. Hunter’s other books so chose to read this based purely on the synopsis I found online, which I thought was very intriguing, and I was not disappointed. At All. This is definitely my favourite YA book I’ve read this year (dare I say ever?!) and it is filled with everything you could possibly want in a book (and more!) – secrets, mystery, death, love, justice and friendship!
This Heart of Mine follows 17 year old Leah, who has a heart disease, which means she relies on an artificial heart to keep her alive. Knowing that a heart transplant is highly unlikely due to her rare blood type, she spends her time at home completing her bucket list and living for each day.
We also have Matt, whose twin brother, Eric, was found dead in the local woods. Matt is on a mission to prove that Eric didn’t commit suicide, despite the closed case. No one believes him and Matt is in desperate need of someone to support him. This is where Leah comes in…
Although this initially seems to be a love story, it is so much more than that! I couldn’t put it down and as we get further and further into the novel, and learn more about the circumstances, I was so gripped! The ending was just phenomenal (which I never saw coming!) and raises some very important issues and questions that we face in today’s society. This book is so relevant and seems to have been so well researched (C.C. Hunter says some more about these issues at the back of the book) and the accurate portrayal of all these issues made me connect a lot more with Leah and Matt as characters and support them in their aim of finding justice.
I loved both Leah and Matt and their individual personalities seemed so authentic, which reflects how beautifully written this book is. Their relationship develops over time (no insta-love YAY!) and the book has several sub-plots too which makes it intriguing to watch how these characters react to certain situations. The plot itself flows seamlessly and often I forgot I was reading a book and not someone’s actual life!
This is definitely a book to watch out for in 2018 and I’m predicting huge success and amazing reviews! It gives me The Hate U Give vibes and despite it’s YA ‘categorisation’, This Heart of Mine is a book that people across all ages should read and will enjoy! This has become a firm favourite of mine and I can’t wait to grab my own copy when it’s released next February. You should definitely read this if you get the chance to – you won’t be disappointed!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Okay. Just wow. Where to start with this book?!
I’ve never actually read any of C.C. Hunter’s other books so chose to read this based purely on the synopsis I found online, which I thought was very intriguing, and I was not disappointed. At All. This is definitely my favourite YA book I’ve read this year (dare I say ever?!) and it is filled with everything you could possibly want in a book (and more!) – secrets, mystery, death, love, justice and friendship!
This Heart of Mine follows 17 year old Leah, who has a heart disease, which means she relies on an artificial heart to keep her alive. Knowing that a heart transplant is highly unlikely due to her rare blood type, she spends her time at home completing her bucket list and living for each day.
We also have Matt, whose twin brother, Eric, was found dead in the local woods. Matt is on a mission to prove that Eric didn’t commit suicide, despite the closed case. No one believes him and Matt is in desperate need of someone to support him. This is where Leah comes in…
Although this initially seems to be a love story, it is so much more than that! I couldn’t put it down and as we get further and further into the novel, and learn more about the circumstances, I was so gripped! The ending was just phenomenal (which I never saw coming!) and raises some very important issues and questions that we face in today’s society. This book is so relevant and seems to have been so well researched (C.C. Hunter says some more about these issues at the back of the book) and the accurate portrayal of all these issues made me connect a lot more with Leah and Matt as characters and support them in their aim of finding justice.
I loved both Leah and Matt and their individual personalities seemed so authentic, which reflects how beautifully written this book is. Their relationship develops over time (no insta-love YAY!) and the book has several sub-plots too which makes it intriguing to watch how these characters react to certain situations. The plot itself flows seamlessly and often I forgot I was reading a book and not someone’s actual life!
This is definitely a book to watch out for in 2018 and I’m predicting huge success and amazing reviews! It gives me The Hate U Give vibes and despite it’s YA ‘categorisation’, This Heart of Mine is a book that people across all ages should read and will enjoy! This has become a firm favourite of mine and I can’t wait to grab my own copy when it’s released next February. You should definitely read this if you get the chance to – you won’t be disappointed!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
August 24, 2018
3.5
like i liked it, and LOVED it at the end, but through the middle i was just so ready for it to finish. Like, it started out good, then dragggggggged but when it was finished i had that ache of “NOOOOOooOooOooOo iT cANT bE oVeR!!!!” yknow?
content: strong language, teen sex (not explicit but they do talk about it and yeah it got kinda awkward soooo yeah), mention of rape.
like i liked it, and LOVED it at the end, but through the middle i was just so ready for it to finish. Like, it started out good, then dragggggggged but when it was finished i had that ache of “NOOOOOooOooOooOo iT cANT bE oVeR!!!!” yknow?
content: strong language, teen sex (not explicit but they do talk about it and yeah it got kinda awkward soooo yeah), mention of rape.
December 22, 2017
“Don’t do anything you know you’ll regret. But do enough to know exactly what you’ll regret and learn to regret less.”
I have been a big fan of C.C. Hunter since reading her Shadow Falls series and the companion series Shadow Falls: After Dark. Her characters and world setting are just something I have always enjoyed and “This Heart of Mine” was no exception. We are introduced to two people, Leah and Matt, who are both confronted with death and the effects it can have on a person. Leah has an artificial heart and lives her life in days because she never knows when it may be her last. Matt, who lost his father, is again faced with loss when his twin brother Eric dies. Everyone believes it to be suicide, but Matt doesn’t believe his brother could something like this. When Leah finally gets a heart transplant, the events that transpire after the surgery will bring her and Matt closer together and even closer to the truth.
“This Heart of Mine” was a very unique read. I loved how C.C. Hunter dived into the special psychic connection between identical twins and how a person can gain the memories of someone who has received a donated heart. That was my favorite aspect of the book. The romance wasn’t anything special, but I still loved Leah and Matt together. They really cared for each other and you can feel that when reading this book. I also found the mystery to be quite exciting. You really have to read this book to see what I am talking about!
This book was a very quick and interesting read for me. Anything C.C. Hunter writes is a must read for me and this book definitely satisfied my C.C. Hunter book craving! I love that this book is special for C.C. Hunter and I thank her for sharing this story with us. Thank you to Netgalley for this e-ARC.
I have been a big fan of C.C. Hunter since reading her Shadow Falls series and the companion series Shadow Falls: After Dark. Her characters and world setting are just something I have always enjoyed and “This Heart of Mine” was no exception. We are introduced to two people, Leah and Matt, who are both confronted with death and the effects it can have on a person. Leah has an artificial heart and lives her life in days because she never knows when it may be her last. Matt, who lost his father, is again faced with loss when his twin brother Eric dies. Everyone believes it to be suicide, but Matt doesn’t believe his brother could something like this. When Leah finally gets a heart transplant, the events that transpire after the surgery will bring her and Matt closer together and even closer to the truth.
“This Heart of Mine” was a very unique read. I loved how C.C. Hunter dived into the special psychic connection between identical twins and how a person can gain the memories of someone who has received a donated heart. That was my favorite aspect of the book. The romance wasn’t anything special, but I still loved Leah and Matt together. They really cared for each other and you can feel that when reading this book. I also found the mystery to be quite exciting. You really have to read this book to see what I am talking about!
This book was a very quick and interesting read for me. Anything C.C. Hunter writes is a must read for me and this book definitely satisfied my C.C. Hunter book craving! I love that this book is special for C.C. Hunter and I thank her for sharing this story with us. Thank you to Netgalley for this e-ARC.
March 9, 2018
THIS REVIEW & MORE → Paws and Paperbacks
4.5 stars ✨
This Heart of Mine is a compelling, touching story focused on family, friendship, grief, love, and life. The author put a lot of heart (pun totally intended) into writing this book and it shows by the wonderful story and characters we get to read about.
The story is told from two alternating POVs, Leah and Matt. Both were such great protagonists: Matt is such a sweet cinnamon roll and Leah is a strong, caring heroine. The romance that develops between is so freaking adorable. I was unsure about the romance aspect going into this when I read the synopsis, but I was really happy about the way it was portrayed. I loved the fact that they had both unknowlingly liked each other for years before the events in the story; it made for some cute moments!
Some people felt confused by the strange mix of genres, YA Contemporary + Mystery, but I thought it was intriguing and was executed perfectly. The mystery aspect is very predictable but since it wasn’t the focus of the story, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book. You can tell C.C. Hunter is very knowledgeable about the subject matter, and therefore for the most part the medical parts of the novel come off as insightful and realistic.
It’s easy to see that this book means a lot to the author by the love and care infused into the writing. This Heart of Mine is a compelling story with an inspiring message. It left me feeling glad I choose to be an organ donor, and can possibly one day in the (hopefully far) future give life back to someone. If you’re looking for a light, fun, uplifting read, I would recommend reading This Heart of Mine!
4.5 stars ✨
This Heart of Mine is a compelling, touching story focused on family, friendship, grief, love, and life. The author put a lot of heart (pun totally intended) into writing this book and it shows by the wonderful story and characters we get to read about.
The story is told from two alternating POVs, Leah and Matt. Both were such great protagonists: Matt is such a sweet cinnamon roll and Leah is a strong, caring heroine. The romance that develops between is so freaking adorable. I was unsure about the romance aspect going into this when I read the synopsis, but I was really happy about the way it was portrayed. I loved the fact that they had both unknowlingly liked each other for years before the events in the story; it made for some cute moments!
Some people felt confused by the strange mix of genres, YA Contemporary + Mystery, but I thought it was intriguing and was executed perfectly. The mystery aspect is very predictable but since it wasn’t the focus of the story, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book. You can tell C.C. Hunter is very knowledgeable about the subject matter, and therefore for the most part the medical parts of the novel come off as insightful and realistic.
It’s easy to see that this book means a lot to the author by the love and care infused into the writing. This Heart of Mine is a compelling story with an inspiring message. It left me feeling glad I choose to be an organ donor, and can possibly one day in the (hopefully far) future give life back to someone. If you’re looking for a light, fun, uplifting read, I would recommend reading This Heart of Mine!
December 2, 2017
I notice that Hunter's writing evolved, that it's better and even more fluent than it already was. I loved it and read this book in no time!
I loved the story, the plot and everything around it. It never felt forced, at all. Everything, not only her writing, flowed fluently and just made you want more. Made you want to figure out what happened to Eric. And, of course, keeping your fingers crossed for Leah and Matt was an obvious reason to want more as well.
Although at first their feelings steer a lot towards insta-love, they only appear to do so. If you hate that trope, I'd say, ignore that because it gets clear in only the first chapters that it isn't a case of insta-love!
Then our MC! Leah! God, how I love that girl's sass. She's brutally honest, makes the best comments and - as if this could get any better? - is a huge book worm!
The way I could connect with Leah, I couldn't with Matt. I honestly still can't figure out exactly why it didn't work. Maybe because I felt like he didn't have a unique voice like Leah did? Maybe because I simply didn't feel like having anything in common with him? I don't know. I really don't. It didn't really ruin anything for me, but it is something I thought of after finishing this novel.
4,5/5
I received an eCopy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are entirely my own. I'm not being compensated in any way. Quotes used may differ from the finished copy since I took them out of an unfinished ARC.
I wasn't embarrassed about reading. If anything, it saddened me that some people were missing out.
I loved the story, the plot and everything around it. It never felt forced, at all. Everything, not only her writing, flowed fluently and just made you want more. Made you want to figure out what happened to Eric. And, of course, keeping your fingers crossed for Leah and Matt was an obvious reason to want more as well.
Although at first their feelings steer a lot towards insta-love, they only appear to do so. If you hate that trope, I'd say, ignore that because it gets clear in only the first chapters that it isn't a case of insta-love!
Then our MC! Leah! God, how I love that girl's sass. She's brutally honest, makes the best comments and - as if this could get any better? - is a huge book worm!
Reading is a vacation for the mind. Well, if the book is good, it is.
The way I could connect with Leah, I couldn't with Matt. I honestly still can't figure out exactly why it didn't work. Maybe because I felt like he didn't have a unique voice like Leah did? Maybe because I simply didn't feel like having anything in common with him? I don't know. I really don't. It didn't really ruin anything for me, but it is something I thought of after finishing this novel.
4,5/5
I received an eCopy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are entirely my own. I'm not being compensated in any way. Quotes used may differ from the finished copy since I took them out of an unfinished ARC.
April 25, 2018
"You’ve got a future, Leah. Plan for it. Figure out who you are and what you want. Then go do it. Do it large. It’s people like you who make a big splash. Don’t be afraid to take a chance. Win or lose. That’s what life is, a bunch of chances.”
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review!*
Whew. For the first few pages there, I was nervous. I thought this was going to be weird and a tad dull.
Thankfully, after a few chapters, this book changed my mind.
This is a cute romance that also handles some hefty topics such as illness, death, suicide, and even briefly, sexual assault, while not compromising the YA contemporary romance bubble of moderate happy vibes.
This book was full of all kinds of plot elements: organ transplant donors and recipients, how one twin handles the loss of another, suicide and murder, and of course, the awkwardness and beauty of young love.
Overall, this was cute, it was deliciously awkward at times, and overall, a good read (see what I did there?) that I would recommend to YA contemporary romance fans.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review!*
Whew. For the first few pages there, I was nervous. I thought this was going to be weird and a tad dull.
Thankfully, after a few chapters, this book changed my mind.
This is a cute romance that also handles some hefty topics such as illness, death, suicide, and even briefly, sexual assault, while not compromising the YA contemporary romance bubble of moderate happy vibes.
This book was full of all kinds of plot elements: organ transplant donors and recipients, how one twin handles the loss of another, suicide and murder, and of course, the awkwardness and beauty of young love.
Overall, this was cute, it was deliciously awkward at times, and overall, a good read (see what I did there?) that I would recommend to YA contemporary romance fans.
February 5, 2018
O...M...G... the feels! My heart is literally aching right now, in a good way! This book is full of so much emotion. I found it near impossible to put down once I started, unfortunately life does get in the way, otherwise it probably would have been a one sitting read for me.
It's hard to imagine yourself in the position of any one in this book, there is so much grief, loss, and fear, but also so much love, acceptance, learning and moving on. And I am impressed with the underlying PSA the author has woven into the tale without being too preachy on the subject.
The love story within the book was so touching and honest and real. I loved getting to see both sides of things with the dual point of view telling. Seeing them slowly falling in love was sweet and reminiscent of that first love feeling I'm sure all of us remember.
POSSIBLE SPOILER IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE BLURB...
I was already an organ donor and have always felt very passionate about that, but if I weren't this book would have convinced me. I don't know what it would be like to know that your loved one had organs going to someone else after they passed away, I don't even know what it would feel like to be on the receiving end, but it just feels like the right thing to do.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book that I won via an online contest.*
It's hard to imagine yourself in the position of any one in this book, there is so much grief, loss, and fear, but also so much love, acceptance, learning and moving on. And I am impressed with the underlying PSA the author has woven into the tale without being too preachy on the subject.
The love story within the book was so touching and honest and real. I loved getting to see both sides of things with the dual point of view telling. Seeing them slowly falling in love was sweet and reminiscent of that first love feeling I'm sure all of us remember.
POSSIBLE SPOILER IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE BLURB...
I was already an organ donor and have always felt very passionate about that, but if I weren't this book would have convinced me. I don't know what it would be like to know that your loved one had organs going to someone else after they passed away, I don't even know what it would feel like to be on the receiving end, but it just feels like the right thing to do.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book that I won via an online contest.*
October 22, 2020
3 stars.
That is all.
That is all.
June 23, 2018
Leah MacKenzie has no heart, just an artificial device keeping her alive but for a seventeen yera old that’s not what she wants for her life, to be forever waiting for a miracle so she can really live her life to the fullest so when suddenly a heart is available, Leah is afraid to hope for the first time in her life but what she didn’t bargain for is having these terrifying dream about someone running I the woods afraid and alone. Is Eric, the donor trying to tell something of what happened to her or is it just the result of her mind and the surgery she had. But when Matt, Eric’s twin brother tells her that he’s having the same dream over and over again, they start to investigate what really happened to Eric. Did he really commit suicide or something else happened to him?
Some books makes you feel happiness, others break your heart, few will test your emotions and what you believe in and even fewer will manage to change something in you and rarely by a miracle you’ll find a book that will manage to do all of the above. Other books manage to do nothing to you, NOTHING. You read them and once it’s all over you just move on and forget about them; This Heart of Mine is unfortunately one of them.
This book despite having a potential for very powerful and solid story about life, loss and the power of finding peace and moving on was simply destroyed because of the two main characters and how hormonal they are the whole damn book. I mean they’ve talking about Matt dead twin brother and then they’ll be checking each other and thinking about sex. It’s like it’s good that we’ll talking about how painful losing a loved one is but don’t you want to make out instead.
The focus on the romance was choking the life out of me and not to mention that they start making out minutes after meeting up, insta-lust much people, slow your guards a little bit, and focus on those things that are quite dangerous that you need solving and then you can make out for eternity. These two main characters are nothing but Hormones and bad decisions. I’m really bitter how the potential of the story was lost and never really explored in a very constructive way. Shame, it could’ve been another favorite but it turned out just another forgettable read.
You know there's a fine line between cute and nauseating, between sexy and creepy, between a sweet romance and a ridiculous one, that line is no more in this book. I mean just look at this conversation between Matt and Leah:
I’m sorry but I find out that one of my classmates has been skipping his classes just to spy on me and check me out and that he’s been doing this repeatedly without my knowledge I’d be really horrified not flattered. I just don’t understand it.
You know I’d like to keep talking about it but I feel like it’s just making me feel bad because of the central theme of the story but I really can’t lie about what I think of a story so just to avoid feeling guilty trashing a book that portray a very important subject even when doing a lousy job of it I’m going to stop right now. Because this book didn’t make me feel good and I’d rather put the whole experience behind me.
Some books makes you feel happiness, others break your heart, few will test your emotions and what you believe in and even fewer will manage to change something in you and rarely by a miracle you’ll find a book that will manage to do all of the above. Other books manage to do nothing to you, NOTHING. You read them and once it’s all over you just move on and forget about them; This Heart of Mine is unfortunately one of them.
This book despite having a potential for very powerful and solid story about life, loss and the power of finding peace and moving on was simply destroyed because of the two main characters and how hormonal they are the whole damn book. I mean they’ve talking about Matt dead twin brother and then they’ll be checking each other and thinking about sex. It’s like it’s good that we’ll talking about how painful losing a loved one is but don’t you want to make out instead.
The focus on the romance was choking the life out of me and not to mention that they start making out minutes after meeting up, insta-lust much people, slow your guards a little bit, and focus on those things that are quite dangerous that you need solving and then you can make out for eternity. These two main characters are nothing but Hormones and bad decisions. I’m really bitter how the potential of the story was lost and never really explored in a very constructive way. Shame, it could’ve been another favorite but it turned out just another forgettable read.
You know there's a fine line between cute and nauseating, between sexy and creepy, between a sweet romance and a ridiculous one, that line is no more in this book. I mean just look at this conversation between Matt and Leah:
'How did you know I had PE?' Crap, he should have kept that one to himself. Or maybe not. 'I uh. . . noticed you looked good in the gym shorts and tank top. So once or twice a week, I'd find a reason to leave class and walk through the gym.' She laughs. 'You were checking me out? Seriously?'
I’m sorry but I find out that one of my classmates has been skipping his classes just to spy on me and check me out and that he’s been doing this repeatedly without my knowledge I’d be really horrified not flattered. I just don’t understand it.
You know I’d like to keep talking about it but I feel like it’s just making me feel bad because of the central theme of the story but I really can’t lie about what I think of a story so just to avoid feeling guilty trashing a book that portray a very important subject even when doing a lousy job of it I’m going to stop right now. Because this book didn’t make me feel good and I’d rather put the whole experience behind me.
April 27, 2018
This books seems to have gotten a lot of great reviews and I’m not sure why. It ended up becoming just another generic YA romance. Normally I’m down for a cute romance but I found Matt and Leah’s relationship to be anything but cute.
Leah is your stereotypical shy book nerd and Matt is the popular football player. To add to the unoriginality there is some insta-love when they kiss within the first fifteen pages. We find out that they both have had crushes on each other since middle school but that’s not a good enough explanation to say it isn’t insta-love. According to Leah, she was never in his league and it seems that up until now they have never had any interactions with each other. Their crushes on each other were based solely on looks. After this kiss, they don’t see or speak to each other for nine months. During this time, Matt’s brother, Eric, dies and Leah receives his heart. She realizes she has Eric’s heart because she keeps having dreams of him being chased through the woods and Matt is having the same dreams. This is where the “mystery” aspect of the novel comes in because Matt doesn’t think Eric committed suicide and they decide to work together to find out who killed Eric.
I don’t know if the author intended this to be more of a romance or a mystery, but there wasn’t a good balance between the two. I felt like it focused to much on their relationship and the mystery was barely there. And like I said before, I didn’t like their relationship. All they could think about was kissing each other and how much they wanted to have sex. I am someone who believes that sex before marriage is wrong but I’ve come to accept the fact that it’s going to be in the majority of YA novels and I don’t let it ruin an entire book because it’s included. The reason it bothered me so much in this story was because they barely knew each other. Whenever they talked it was usually about Eric and it took over half the novel for them to actually get to really know each other. To prove my point, there is a scene in the book where they are talking on the phone and Matt says that he “knows” Leah so she asks him to describe her. He of course starts talking about how she looks. Knowing how someone looks does not mean you know each other, which is basically how Leah responds. He then lists some random facts about her that still don’t constitute him really knowing her. There was no substance to their relationship and most of the book was them basically obsessing over each other. If an author is going to include sex in their novel I would at least like the characters to actually have a believable relationship with people who actually know each other. As for the barely there mystery, I figured out who the killer was basically right after the character was introduced.
One aspect that I liked was that the author included Leah’s fears and doubts after receiving Eric’s heart. Even though she is given the chance to live, she still struggles with the fact that her life will never be completely normal and she could still die if her body rejects the heart. I thought this was very believable and I’m glad it wasn’t just brushed over.
I feel bad giving this a low rating because the story is very personal to the author but this book wasn’t for me. I would have preferred the story to focus more on discovering who the killer was and the romance to be in the background.
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
Leah is your stereotypical shy book nerd and Matt is the popular football player. To add to the unoriginality there is some insta-love when they kiss within the first fifteen pages. We find out that they both have had crushes on each other since middle school but that’s not a good enough explanation to say it isn’t insta-love. According to Leah, she was never in his league and it seems that up until now they have never had any interactions with each other. Their crushes on each other were based solely on looks. After this kiss, they don’t see or speak to each other for nine months. During this time, Matt’s brother, Eric, dies and Leah receives his heart. She realizes she has Eric’s heart because she keeps having dreams of him being chased through the woods and Matt is having the same dreams. This is where the “mystery” aspect of the novel comes in because Matt doesn’t think Eric committed suicide and they decide to work together to find out who killed Eric.
I don’t know if the author intended this to be more of a romance or a mystery, but there wasn’t a good balance between the two. I felt like it focused to much on their relationship and the mystery was barely there. And like I said before, I didn’t like their relationship. All they could think about was kissing each other and how much they wanted to have sex. I am someone who believes that sex before marriage is wrong but I’ve come to accept the fact that it’s going to be in the majority of YA novels and I don’t let it ruin an entire book because it’s included. The reason it bothered me so much in this story was because they barely knew each other. Whenever they talked it was usually about Eric and it took over half the novel for them to actually get to really know each other. To prove my point, there is a scene in the book where they are talking on the phone and Matt says that he “knows” Leah so she asks him to describe her. He of course starts talking about how she looks. Knowing how someone looks does not mean you know each other, which is basically how Leah responds. He then lists some random facts about her that still don’t constitute him really knowing her. There was no substance to their relationship and most of the book was them basically obsessing over each other. If an author is going to include sex in their novel I would at least like the characters to actually have a believable relationship with people who actually know each other. As for the barely there mystery, I figured out who the killer was basically right after the character was introduced.
One aspect that I liked was that the author included Leah’s fears and doubts after receiving Eric’s heart. Even though she is given the chance to live, she still struggles with the fact that her life will never be completely normal and she could still die if her body rejects the heart. I thought this was very believable and I’m glad it wasn’t just brushed over.
I feel bad giving this a low rating because the story is very personal to the author but this book wasn’t for me. I would have preferred the story to focus more on discovering who the killer was and the romance to be in the background.
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
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