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Julian
He was never a part of my plan…
Twelve years ago, when my mother chose her violent lover over me, my end of the deal was a room in an orphanage. Thank God, in six weeks, I’ll be eighteen and free!
Except, a certain stupid sweater in my backpack—okay, okay! I didn’t actually pay for it—lands me at court. And, look at that…my mother is back, too.
I want to keel over dead when the judge sentences me to time in France with her. Actually, I take that back, I want her to keel over dead! And then somebody says she has cancer. Wow, I’ve never had a wish fulfilled this fast. But until that happens—or I turn eighteen, whichever comes first—I’m required to work in some unknown family’s vineyards.
Yeah, right…
France, however, holds another surprise for me. Julian.
He doesn’t miss a chance to provoke me, and for some reason he seems to foresee each step of my brilliant escape plan. What the hell—?
But then he makes a tiny mistake. And suddenly, I’m confronted with a secret that makes my blood run cold.
Twelve years ago, when my mother chose her violent lover over me, my end of the deal was a room in an orphanage. Thank God, in six weeks, I’ll be eighteen and free!
Except, a certain stupid sweater in my backpack—okay, okay! I didn’t actually pay for it—lands me at court. And, look at that…my mother is back, too.
I want to keel over dead when the judge sentences me to time in France with her. Actually, I take that back, I want her to keel over dead! And then somebody says she has cancer. Wow, I’ve never had a wish fulfilled this fast. But until that happens—or I turn eighteen, whichever comes first—I’m required to work in some unknown family’s vineyards.
Yeah, right…
France, however, holds another surprise for me. Julian.
He doesn’t miss a chance to provoke me, and for some reason he seems to foresee each step of my brilliant escape plan. What the hell—?
But then he makes a tiny mistake. And suddenly, I’m confronted with a secret that makes my blood run cold.
Unknown Binding
First published September 5, 2012
116 people are currently reading
2353 people want to read
About the author
Piper Shelly
6 books472 followersThe quick-and-dirty:
I’m a cool girl with a passion for writing.
The genres you’ll find me hanging out at are contemporary and paranormal YA, but I’m also snooping into some adult paranormal right now. All of them romances…of course.
The nitty-gritty:
I’m an Austrian lass—totally uncomplicated and up to anything fun.
I grew up in Vienna, not by free will but because my parents decided to move there when I was only 4 years old. I. Hated. The. City. Everything about it. So right after graduation I moved back to Upper Austria, where I settled down with a nice husband and an awesome laptop.
I’ve been a storyteller all my life. Already in kindergarten, I came up with the most exotic fantasies and tales. My teacher would call me a liar. I call it the cornerstone of my writing career.
People always told me you can’t make a living with being an author. So when my first novella PLAY WITH ME came out and shot straight to the stars within the first week, I was totally dumbstruck. Took me a while to realize what was happening, LOL.
And the personal stuff:
At the (awesome) age of seventeen, I met the love of my life. But he was a playboy, and I was so not going to be his next trophy. It took him another four years of fighting for me until I finally decided to give that “couple-thing” with him a shot. I’m now married to this man. ;-)
We have an eleven-year-old son, and together we travel a lot…although I sometimes wish the trips were shorter because I can’t wait to get back to my laptop and my many stories. Unless we’re in Disneyland. No stress to go home then…
If you still want to know more about me, my FAQ page is the right address for you. ;-)
http://pipershelly.com/faq/
I’m a cool girl with a passion for writing.
The genres you’ll find me hanging out at are contemporary and paranormal YA, but I’m also snooping into some adult paranormal right now. All of them romances…of course.
The nitty-gritty:
I’m an Austrian lass—totally uncomplicated and up to anything fun.
I grew up in Vienna, not by free will but because my parents decided to move there when I was only 4 years old. I. Hated. The. City. Everything about it. So right after graduation I moved back to Upper Austria, where I settled down with a nice husband and an awesome laptop.
I’ve been a storyteller all my life. Already in kindergarten, I came up with the most exotic fantasies and tales. My teacher would call me a liar. I call it the cornerstone of my writing career.
People always told me you can’t make a living with being an author. So when my first novella PLAY WITH ME came out and shot straight to the stars within the first week, I was totally dumbstruck. Took me a while to realize what was happening, LOL.
And the personal stuff:
At the (awesome) age of seventeen, I met the love of my life. But he was a playboy, and I was so not going to be his next trophy. It took him another four years of fighting for me until I finally decided to give that “couple-thing” with him a shot. I’m now married to this man. ;-)
We have an eleven-year-old son, and together we travel a lot…although I sometimes wish the trips were shorter because I can’t wait to get back to my laptop and my many stories. Unless we’re in Disneyland. No stress to go home then…
If you still want to know more about me, my FAQ page is the right address for you. ;-)
http://pipershelly.com/faq/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
September 8, 2025
I first read this book when it was on kindle unlimited, I’m not new to this author as I have read some of her others books too which I throughly enjoyed as well.
Jona is nearly 18 and is well known at the local police station for being in trouble, after her last brush with the law she is taken from the care home where she is living and reunited with the terminally ill mother who abandoned as the judge thinks working on her family’s vineyard in France and reconnecting with her family will straighten her out.
Jona is not happy about this and keeps her mother at arms lengths but bonds with her aunt, uncle and her mother’s mysterious companion Julian. Who is Julian? We are given clues which keep you guessing right until the last minute as to who Julian is, thanks to Julian’s hidden identity romance with Jona is strictly forbidden but despite this the two fall in love. They were rather sweet together particularly when they were working in the vineyard together and on some of the outings they went on together, Jona’s mother Charlene tries to keep them apart. Jona resents this, it isn’t until it’s nearly too late that she forgives her mother and learns the reason behind her abandonment.
This is a coming of age story about reuniting with family and two star crossed lovers, the story was beautifully written and had been longing for a happy ending for Jona and Jullian.
Jona is nearly 18 and is well known at the local police station for being in trouble, after her last brush with the law she is taken from the care home where she is living and reunited with the terminally ill mother who abandoned as the judge thinks working on her family’s vineyard in France and reconnecting with her family will straighten her out.
Jona is not happy about this and keeps her mother at arms lengths but bonds with her aunt, uncle and her mother’s mysterious companion Julian. Who is Julian? We are given clues which keep you guessing right until the last minute as to who Julian is, thanks to Julian’s hidden identity romance with Jona is strictly forbidden but despite this the two fall in love. They were rather sweet together particularly when they were working in the vineyard together and on some of the outings they went on together, Jona’s mother Charlene tries to keep them apart. Jona resents this, it isn’t until it’s nearly too late that she forgives her mother and learns the reason behind her abandonment.
This is a coming of age story about reuniting with family and two star crossed lovers, the story was beautifully written and had been longing for a happy ending for Jona and Jullian.
March 11, 2016
4.5 stars
I enjoyed this book so much, it was the perfect fit for a romantic read with a little paranormal magic sprinkled on. The writing was fantastic, the characters well developed, and the setting was amazing. Not much can top a vineyard in France for beauty and lifestyle.
Jona, a young teen, troubled, alone and in legal trouble is sent to France to live with her Mother and Aunt after years of living in a orphanage, weeks from her release at 18. Her mother dropped her off as a child and left some horrendous scars on Jona's soul. Her hatred towards this woman who abandoned her is thick and unwavering. She is set to run, planning it and somehow it keeps getting put off. It might be her Aunt or it might be Julian,he's young gorgeous and is too close to her Dragon of a mother for comfort, but...
Julian, is her mothers caretaker. He is soft, always touching her, soothing her. His presence seems to calm everyone and make the room brighter when he enters. He works to bring the split family together and ends up forming a bond with Jona.
I can't wait for more books from this author, I love her style.
I enjoyed this book so much, it was the perfect fit for a romantic read with a little paranormal magic sprinkled on. The writing was fantastic, the characters well developed, and the setting was amazing. Not much can top a vineyard in France for beauty and lifestyle.
Jona, a young teen, troubled, alone and in legal trouble is sent to France to live with her Mother and Aunt after years of living in a orphanage, weeks from her release at 18. Her mother dropped her off as a child and left some horrendous scars on Jona's soul. Her hatred towards this woman who abandoned her is thick and unwavering. She is set to run, planning it and somehow it keeps getting put off. It might be her Aunt or it might be Julian,he's young gorgeous and is too close to her Dragon of a mother for comfort, but...
Julian, is her mothers caretaker. He is soft, always touching her, soothing her. His presence seems to calm everyone and make the room brighter when he enters. He works to bring the split family together and ends up forming a bond with Jona.
I can't wait for more books from this author, I love her style.
July 9, 2013
The ending of this book was just.. wow :) Loved it!
not sure what it was, but this story just seems to pull you in from the start -
Jona has had a hard life - only at the age of 17 and already she's learned how to make herself hard, because once people see you as soft and weak, that's when they strike you down.
Jona has lived in the orphanage since she was 5 - when her own mother sent her there in order to live with her boyfriend. the one that use to beat Jona up.
Jona wanted nothing else in her life but to have her mom come back for her. But as the years go on, she realizes that that's not going to happen. She doesn't want friends, or boyfriends, and refuses to get close to anyone. After all, if her own mother could abandon her, what's stopping a total stranger from doing the same thing.
Jona got caught steeling a hoodie, and she knew that she was going to get in trouble. When she met with Abe - the judge, he counted down how many times he has seen her this year alone. He gave her no choice.
Her mother was standing in the same room and Jona freaked out.
But with her hands tied.. or cuffed - she had no choice but to go to France with her mother. The only good thing she saw out of it, was the hot guy her mother was with.
When she found out her mother was terminally ill, she just rolled her eyes. But there was something about her caregiver that Jona couldn't figure out.
In France, Jona met her Aunt and uncle and started to work on their vineyard, all while planing her escape to freedom.
But one thing after another and Jona decides to stick to her punishment in order to figure out what the strange connection she has with Julius is.
There is something strange about Julius, and while reading the story you can easily see where it's leading - but the story is told in a way that you just can't stop yourself from turning to the next page.
I really CUTE story - one I really enjoyed a lot :)
not sure what it was, but this story just seems to pull you in from the start -
Jona has had a hard life - only at the age of 17 and already she's learned how to make herself hard, because once people see you as soft and weak, that's when they strike you down.
Jona has lived in the orphanage since she was 5 - when her own mother sent her there in order to live with her boyfriend. the one that use to beat Jona up.
Jona wanted nothing else in her life but to have her mom come back for her. But as the years go on, she realizes that that's not going to happen. She doesn't want friends, or boyfriends, and refuses to get close to anyone. After all, if her own mother could abandon her, what's stopping a total stranger from doing the same thing.
Jona got caught steeling a hoodie, and she knew that she was going to get in trouble. When she met with Abe - the judge, he counted down how many times he has seen her this year alone. He gave her no choice.
Her mother was standing in the same room and Jona freaked out.
But with her hands tied.. or cuffed - she had no choice but to go to France with her mother. The only good thing she saw out of it, was the hot guy her mother was with.
When she found out her mother was terminally ill, she just rolled her eyes. But there was something about her caregiver that Jona couldn't figure out.
In France, Jona met her Aunt and uncle and started to work on their vineyard, all while planing her escape to freedom.
But one thing after another and Jona decides to stick to her punishment in order to figure out what the strange connection she has with Julius is.
There is something strange about Julius, and while reading the story you can easily see where it's leading - but the story is told in a way that you just can't stop yourself from turning to the next page.
I really CUTE story - one I really enjoyed a lot :)
July 22, 2013
Check out the author interview on Happy Indulgence!
When I picked up Loving Your Lies, I thought it was purely a New Adult contemporary but as I read through the depths of its pages, I realised there was a slight paranormal twist to it. It’s all balanced in a ‘believable’ way, even though the mystery behind Julian was pretty obvious from the start.
Featuring a girl from the wrong side of the tracks for once, Jona was an interesting protagonist. She’s snarky, smarmy, and has a whole heap of sarcasm and attitude to boot. However, it’s obvious that she’s adapted that attitude to deal with her painful past – being abused by her mother’s boyfriend and being dumped in an orphanage.
We first meet Jona when she’s getting arrested by the cops for stealing. She’s no stranger to handcuffs and being on trial before a judge, but for the first time in her life, her mother shows up at the trial – with none other than the most handsome guy she’s ever seen in her life. The judge commands her to spend time with her mother in France, as they both live under her aunty’s wing.
Although Jona has the snark and the street smarts to keep her head above sand, she knows she’s done for when the judge raises her dim future in prison when she turns 18. Therefore, she must willingly go and spend time with her mother a.k.a. the dragon, and her handsome caretaker called Julian.
The novel’s journey is pretty predictable, with Jona eventually warming up to her relatives and to her new home in France. As she slowly begins to open up her heart to these new people in her life, she begins to let her guard down as all she’s ever wanted is to be loved. The mystery surrounding Julian was pretty obvious from the get go, but still incredibly sweet to witness. He has a power over her and she’s determined to find out how he got through after just a few days of being around.
I really enjoyed Loving Your Lies as a sweet, fun and light read, compared to a lot of other New Adult reads out there. The way Piper wrote Jona’s voice is just superb, as this is a girl so damaged that she acts quite difficult frequently, but just enough so that we grow to like her. It was really interesting reading a contemporary with a very slight supernatural twist.
When I picked up Loving Your Lies, I thought it was purely a New Adult contemporary but as I read through the depths of its pages, I realised there was a slight paranormal twist to it. It’s all balanced in a ‘believable’ way, even though the mystery behind Julian was pretty obvious from the start.
Featuring a girl from the wrong side of the tracks for once, Jona was an interesting protagonist. She’s snarky, smarmy, and has a whole heap of sarcasm and attitude to boot. However, it’s obvious that she’s adapted that attitude to deal with her painful past – being abused by her mother’s boyfriend and being dumped in an orphanage.
We first meet Jona when she’s getting arrested by the cops for stealing. She’s no stranger to handcuffs and being on trial before a judge, but for the first time in her life, her mother shows up at the trial – with none other than the most handsome guy she’s ever seen in her life. The judge commands her to spend time with her mother in France, as they both live under her aunty’s wing.
Although Jona has the snark and the street smarts to keep her head above sand, she knows she’s done for when the judge raises her dim future in prison when she turns 18. Therefore, she must willingly go and spend time with her mother a.k.a. the dragon, and her handsome caretaker called Julian.
The novel’s journey is pretty predictable, with Jona eventually warming up to her relatives and to her new home in France. As she slowly begins to open up her heart to these new people in her life, she begins to let her guard down as all she’s ever wanted is to be loved. The mystery surrounding Julian was pretty obvious from the get go, but still incredibly sweet to witness. He has a power over her and she’s determined to find out how he got through after just a few days of being around.
I really enjoyed Loving Your Lies as a sweet, fun and light read, compared to a lot of other New Adult reads out there. The way Piper wrote Jona’s voice is just superb, as this is a girl so damaged that she acts quite difficult frequently, but just enough so that we grow to like her. It was really interesting reading a contemporary with a very slight supernatural twist.
July 26, 2013
My first introduction to Piper Shelly came with the lovely first two books of the Grover Beach Team series. They completely exemplified my idea of a "summer beach read." They were very sweet and romantic, I loved the characters, they made me laugh all of the time, I never really felt the need to launch them through a wall (though I guess that would be hard to come by on a beach), and, above all, they were fun. I'm not trying to make it sound like they were shallow or anything, but their purpose wasn't exactly to make me question my existence as I knew it.
Loving Your Lies was a whole other story (both figuratively and literally, haha; oh, come on, you know you want to laugh at my dumb joke). I didn't go through an existential crisis or anything, but it made me think about much deeper topics. Jona's relationship with her mother, the "dragon," is the obvious one, but the beginning brought up a lot of really interesting stuff too. Jona was treated like trash on the streets. People acted like she was less than nothing because she lived in an orphanage. Not only that, but they resented her personally for ending up where she was. They said that she had no excuses for living as she did what with all "the system" did for her. The very same negligent system that drove her to steal in the first place. Piper's treatment of that issue was beautiful.
Another huge compliment that I have for this book is a little harder to describe. You know when you're reading, how sometimes a book will just give you a crystal clear picture of what's going on? You're not really sure if it's the writing style, the descriptions of the setting or the characters, or just that the story seems especially real? I got that feeling a lot with this book; in fact, I'm having a hard time trying to think of a time that I didn't.
My favorite parts by far definitely took place in the vineyard. With Julian. Those scenes just drank in the atmosphere of a happy day in sunny France, and I never wanted them to end. The banter between Jona and Julian was ridiculously entertaining to peek in on, and I loved watching their relationship blossom so naturally.
I'd like to say something about the arrangement that was made to bring Julian in to help, but I can't say much without spoiling the book for you! I also can't say anything about how it conflicted with his personal goals, but just know that it really brought something interesting to the book. Something that is definitely worth you checking out. And I just have to give a little shout out to Quinn and Marie for being such amazing human beings!
This book was very different from most others I've read, so I'm having a bit of trouble trying to classify it. There were paranormal aspects, but they really didn't become fully revealed until late in the book, leaving most of it focused on Jona's relationships with her family (both new and old) and Julian. I still hesitate to call it contemporary fiction, though, because the more magical subjects never completely went away, but it doesn't follow the timeline of your typical YA paranormal romance either. I'd say that for people like me - who's first love will always be fantasy but are slowly crawling into the world of contemporary fiction - this book is absolutely perfect.
Taylor
For the original review and more, please visit Marked By Books.
Loving Your Lies was a whole other story (both figuratively and literally, haha; oh, come on, you know you want to laugh at my dumb joke). I didn't go through an existential crisis or anything, but it made me think about much deeper topics. Jona's relationship with her mother, the "dragon," is the obvious one, but the beginning brought up a lot of really interesting stuff too. Jona was treated like trash on the streets. People acted like she was less than nothing because she lived in an orphanage. Not only that, but they resented her personally for ending up where she was. They said that she had no excuses for living as she did what with all "the system" did for her. The very same negligent system that drove her to steal in the first place. Piper's treatment of that issue was beautiful.
Another huge compliment that I have for this book is a little harder to describe. You know when you're reading, how sometimes a book will just give you a crystal clear picture of what's going on? You're not really sure if it's the writing style, the descriptions of the setting or the characters, or just that the story seems especially real? I got that feeling a lot with this book; in fact, I'm having a hard time trying to think of a time that I didn't.
My favorite parts by far definitely took place in the vineyard. With Julian. Those scenes just drank in the atmosphere of a happy day in sunny France, and I never wanted them to end. The banter between Jona and Julian was ridiculously entertaining to peek in on, and I loved watching their relationship blossom so naturally.
I'd like to say something about the arrangement that was made to bring Julian in to help, but I can't say much without spoiling the book for you! I also can't say anything about how it conflicted with his personal goals, but just know that it really brought something interesting to the book. Something that is definitely worth you checking out. And I just have to give a little shout out to Quinn and Marie for being such amazing human beings!
This book was very different from most others I've read, so I'm having a bit of trouble trying to classify it. There were paranormal aspects, but they really didn't become fully revealed until late in the book, leaving most of it focused on Jona's relationships with her family (both new and old) and Julian. I still hesitate to call it contemporary fiction, though, because the more magical subjects never completely went away, but it doesn't follow the timeline of your typical YA paranormal romance either. I'd say that for people like me - who's first love will always be fantasy but are slowly crawling into the world of contemporary fiction - this book is absolutely perfect.
Taylor
For the original review and more, please visit Marked By Books.
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December 22, 2012
Review also appears on my blog
So first I would like to thank the awesome author of this novel for giving me the chance to read and review her book. Thank you so much!!! Now for the actual review.
Jona was a different kind of heroine. She wasn't the perfect heroine that leads the ideal life, that never does anything wrong and is nice to everyone. Jona faced a lot in her life and she was just a snarky, girl that knows that life is unfair and that it's not all fun and games. Jona has an attitude and she makes mistakes but as a heroine she was amazingly well written and easy to relate to. She struggled with herself and what choices she had to make and even though at times she came off as just a rude kid, she was just a girl that closed herself off from the world to make sure she doesn't get hurt again. So when the judge makes go live with her mom well she is about to relive something she doesn't want to go back too.
That chages when she meets her mom's caretaker, the amazingly hot, gorgeous, out of this world guy a.k.a Julian. I loved him. Even though at times I really questioned what the whole deal was between him and her mom. He was a great guy though and he really cared about Jona. Really he was just the perfect hero and he also happened to know what to say to get on your nerves. This guy really knew how to get a girl angry and frustrated but in a good way.
I liked how the plot worked out and this was just a really cute read. It has meaning to it and a kickass heroine but at the same time it has the fluff that I love so much from a paranormal YA.
In short go get this book if you like paranormal romance you wont regret it. Piper Shelly once again did an amazing job with her novel.
So first I would like to thank the awesome author of this novel for giving me the chance to read and review her book. Thank you so much!!! Now for the actual review.
Jona was a different kind of heroine. She wasn't the perfect heroine that leads the ideal life, that never does anything wrong and is nice to everyone. Jona faced a lot in her life and she was just a snarky, girl that knows that life is unfair and that it's not all fun and games. Jona has an attitude and she makes mistakes but as a heroine she was amazingly well written and easy to relate to. She struggled with herself and what choices she had to make and even though at times she came off as just a rude kid, she was just a girl that closed herself off from the world to make sure she doesn't get hurt again. So when the judge makes go live with her mom well she is about to relive something she doesn't want to go back too.
That chages when she meets her mom's caretaker, the amazingly hot, gorgeous, out of this world guy a.k.a Julian. I loved him. Even though at times I really questioned what the whole deal was between him and her mom. He was a great guy though and he really cared about Jona. Really he was just the perfect hero and he also happened to know what to say to get on your nerves. This guy really knew how to get a girl angry and frustrated but in a good way.
I liked how the plot worked out and this was just a really cute read. It has meaning to it and a kickass heroine but at the same time it has the fluff that I love so much from a paranormal YA.
In short go get this book if you like paranormal romance you wont regret it. Piper Shelly once again did an amazing job with her novel.
May 26, 2013
I thought I should be clear that this is a very well written book and I enjoyed parts of it a lot.
I only gave the book three stars because I don't really like books about falling in love with angels.
The fact that I read this one will let you know how much I enjoy this author, so if you like this type of book you should give it a try. It just wasn't for me.
I only gave the book three stars because I don't really like books about falling in love with angels.
The fact that I read this one will let you know how much I enjoy this author, so if you like this type of book you should give it a try. It just wasn't for me.
September 4, 2013
Okay, I'm going to start with the truth. I did like this book and the way that the paranormal part of it was revealed gradually. In fact, the paranormal part of it was spot on. What annoyed me, ironically, was the realistic part.
Whilst the author is obviously American, her lead character is supposed to be a British child who's mother abandoned her. As a person myself who is both British and who's mother also did the same, it really angered me to see that the author blatantly hadn't done any research into how these traits would apply to a British character.
Case 1: Jona constantly refers to her last year of school as Senior year. No British person would EVER call their final year of college/ sixth form (what American would call the last year of High school) their senior year. It would be called year thirteen, or for the rich private school kids, upper sixth (the character obviously isn't rich so this doesn't apply). It's one of my pet peeves when I read a book set in London/ the UK. If your character is British, they need to actually sound British for me to believe it!
Case 2: Jona claims that when her mother abandoned her, she was automatically sent to an orphanage. That would NEVER happen in London. If your parent abandons you, you're automatically sent to foster care. If you then prove yourself to be a problem child, you'll eventually be sent to a children's home -but this only happens after you've been such a nuisance that no other foster parent is willing to take you in. Given that Jona was abandoned aged 5, there's no way in hell she would have spent 12 years in an orphanage. I was a foster child, and I still live with my foster family (who I see as my real family) so I know what happens in that situation. It's not that this is a major problem with the plotline, but I find it really difficult to care about a character or put myself in their shoes and emotionally invest myself in the story when all the details are so very wrong.
Once you get past that first half of the story, it's actually a good book, even if Jona annoys me by stupidly trying to convince herself that Julian is human when he obviously does things no human could ever do. I did like the love story because their love actually felt real and natural and I could understand how she found it so hard to forgive her mother. I was definitely rooting for her when she finally did. So even though the end was obvious (I could have told her that all she needed was to say "I love you" like 5 chapters before she did) I actually did like the book.
So overall, a good story, but in future Piper Shelly needs to do a little more research into her characters to make them more realistic.
Whilst the author is obviously American, her lead character is supposed to be a British child who's mother abandoned her. As a person myself who is both British and who's mother also did the same, it really angered me to see that the author blatantly hadn't done any research into how these traits would apply to a British character.
Case 1: Jona constantly refers to her last year of school as Senior year. No British person would EVER call their final year of college/ sixth form (what American would call the last year of High school) their senior year. It would be called year thirteen, or for the rich private school kids, upper sixth (the character obviously isn't rich so this doesn't apply). It's one of my pet peeves when I read a book set in London/ the UK. If your character is British, they need to actually sound British for me to believe it!
Case 2: Jona claims that when her mother abandoned her, she was automatically sent to an orphanage. That would NEVER happen in London. If your parent abandons you, you're automatically sent to foster care. If you then prove yourself to be a problem child, you'll eventually be sent to a children's home -but this only happens after you've been such a nuisance that no other foster parent is willing to take you in. Given that Jona was abandoned aged 5, there's no way in hell she would have spent 12 years in an orphanage. I was a foster child, and I still live with my foster family (who I see as my real family) so I know what happens in that situation. It's not that this is a major problem with the plotline, but I find it really difficult to care about a character or put myself in their shoes and emotionally invest myself in the story when all the details are so very wrong.
Once you get past that first half of the story, it's actually a good book, even if Jona annoys me by stupidly trying to convince herself that Julian is human when he obviously does things no human could ever do. I did like the love story because their love actually felt real and natural and I could understand how she found it so hard to forgive her mother. I was definitely rooting for her when she finally did. So even though the end was obvious (I could have told her that all she needed was to say "I love you" like 5 chapters before she did) I actually did like the book.
So overall, a good story, but in future Piper Shelly needs to do a little more research into her characters to make them more realistic.
November 6, 2012
I am going to keep this review easy this time and simply say that I really enjoyed this read. The writing was so well done and the characters so engaging that I was drawn into the story from the first chapter.
Jona was everything that I love in a lead character. She was feisty and sarcastic, a little broken and a little lost. A whole lot strong and had a heart of gold that she didn't like to show.
It was so nice watching her grow as a character and let others in. To learn to trust and love.
Marie was absolutely fabulous and I loved her from the moment she was introduced. Her loving, patient nature was exactly what Jona needed and craved and I was so happy that Jona had someone like her in her life. We should all have someone like Marie in our lives.
I adored Julian from the first moment that we met him too. He was everything she needed and then some. Mysterious, loving, kind, nurturing, caring...everything you could want and ask for in a friend and in a lover.
The slight paranormal element of this one was perfect. It added mystery to the story and a touch of magic without it being overbearing or the whole focus of the fact that this was indeed a story about forgiveness, redemption and most of all love.
Their story really was a sweet one and one that I won't soon forget. These characters and their story will stay with me for awhile.
I will be keeping an eye on this author and plan to read whatever she comes out with next.
This one deserves a very solid 5 Stars!
Jona was everything that I love in a lead character. She was feisty and sarcastic, a little broken and a little lost. A whole lot strong and had a heart of gold that she didn't like to show.
It was so nice watching her grow as a character and let others in. To learn to trust and love.
Marie was absolutely fabulous and I loved her from the moment she was introduced. Her loving, patient nature was exactly what Jona needed and craved and I was so happy that Jona had someone like her in her life. We should all have someone like Marie in our lives.
I adored Julian from the first moment that we met him too. He was everything she needed and then some. Mysterious, loving, kind, nurturing, caring...everything you could want and ask for in a friend and in a lover.
The slight paranormal element of this one was perfect. It added mystery to the story and a touch of magic without it being overbearing or the whole focus of the fact that this was indeed a story about forgiveness, redemption and most of all love.
Their story really was a sweet one and one that I won't soon forget. These characters and their story will stay with me for awhile.
I will be keeping an eye on this author and plan to read whatever she comes out with next.
This one deserves a very solid 5 Stars!
September 19, 2013
Emotional, deep, and sweet. Loving Your Lies was a lovely New Adult romance. It was heartbreaking and heart lifting, and a truly wonderful read.
Jona was an okay heroine. She was very strong and definitely not the type of person to give up. Though, sometimes I found her to be selfish. And, just plain rude, as opposed to snarky. I understood why she would be that way, but it did annoy me, so that detracted from the book. But, overall, she was a good heroine. Despite my trouble with her, I did like her.
Julian was wonderful. He was such an amazing character. He was so unfailingly kind and sweet and generous and loving and just the absolute sweetest guy ever. Considering what he is, that only makes sense. I adored him. I thought he was a brilliant character.
The romance was very sweet. It developed realistically and it was adorable to watch (see, read...whatever). There wasn't any spice, the relationship having been more focused on the emotions. I thought they were lovely together.
The plot was steadily paced. Rather than going fast, it unfolded, if that makes any sense. It took the time to develop the story. I was kept interested the entire way through. The truth about Jona's mother, and that poor woman's entire situation, was heartbreaking. I really enjoyed the story and the ending was lovely.
Loving Your Lies was a wonderful, emotionally rich romance. I really enjoyed reading this lovely book. If you're looking for a great New Adult romance to read, this is one you'll want to check out.
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
Jona was an okay heroine. She was very strong and definitely not the type of person to give up. Though, sometimes I found her to be selfish. And, just plain rude, as opposed to snarky. I understood why she would be that way, but it did annoy me, so that detracted from the book. But, overall, she was a good heroine. Despite my trouble with her, I did like her.
Julian was wonderful. He was such an amazing character. He was so unfailingly kind and sweet and generous and loving and just the absolute sweetest guy ever. Considering what he is, that only makes sense. I adored him. I thought he was a brilliant character.
The romance was very sweet. It developed realistically and it was adorable to watch (see, read...whatever). There wasn't any spice, the relationship having been more focused on the emotions. I thought they were lovely together.
The plot was steadily paced. Rather than going fast, it unfolded, if that makes any sense. It took the time to develop the story. I was kept interested the entire way through. The truth about Jona's mother, and that poor woman's entire situation, was heartbreaking. I really enjoyed the story and the ending was lovely.
Loving Your Lies was a wonderful, emotionally rich romance. I really enjoyed reading this lovely book. If you're looking for a great New Adult romance to read, this is one you'll want to check out.
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
September 18, 2013
If you love Paranormal romances this is the book for you. I loved every minute of it and when I was done I was mad because I wanted more no in fact I needed more because the main characters of this story had such a connection that it made it believable.
Can you imagine being given up by your mother and left to fend for yourself? You live by the rules of the street and come and go as you please until you are caught stealing and arrested. Once arrested you get the crazy news you have ever heard. You are told you are going to a farm where you are going to be working your punishment off and oh yeah by the you will see your mother. Your mother is dying and she would like to spend time with you and get to know you before she passes away.
At first you are in shock but you recover quickly because that is so not happening well okay the farm work yes but the get to know your mother is a HELL NO! Welcome to Jona's world. She has been taking care of herself and she definitely is not interested in having anything to do with her mother. But she has no choice and when she goes to the farm to meet her mother she meets the most beautiful man she has ever seen.
This guy is her mothers care taker and he gets on her nerves something fierce but at the same time she feels something for him. As they get closer Jona is about to find out what happened to her mother and why she gave her up and Jona will soon see that love is real and forgiveness is the way to redemption and being set free.
Can you imagine being given up by your mother and left to fend for yourself? You live by the rules of the street and come and go as you please until you are caught stealing and arrested. Once arrested you get the crazy news you have ever heard. You are told you are going to a farm where you are going to be working your punishment off and oh yeah by the you will see your mother. Your mother is dying and she would like to spend time with you and get to know you before she passes away.
At first you are in shock but you recover quickly because that is so not happening well okay the farm work yes but the get to know your mother is a HELL NO! Welcome to Jona's world. She has been taking care of herself and she definitely is not interested in having anything to do with her mother. But she has no choice and when she goes to the farm to meet her mother she meets the most beautiful man she has ever seen.
This guy is her mothers care taker and he gets on her nerves something fierce but at the same time she feels something for him. As they get closer Jona is about to find out what happened to her mother and why she gave her up and Jona will soon see that love is real and forgiveness is the way to redemption and being set free.
January 26, 2019
A book to feel for. "Julian" is everything I read books for. To feel something and be transported into a suspension of my imagination. I couldn't put this book down.
This book made me cry multiple times, because I'm a sap, and because I felt for this character. There's something so heart wrenching about that feeling you get when you want to be loved, but you push it away because you don't know how to process it when it comes. Yes, some people might be annoyed with how the character handles herself in the face of a dying woman, and a loving family. But, when you've been abandoned most of your life it's a very real and raw reaction to push away that small glimmer of hope that what you've been missing all of your life is finally within your reach. Because you're used to not having it, and once it's in your hands it would be even more devastating to have it snatched away from you all over again.
This book tears at those core feelings, and it's bundled in a beautiful love story.
I absolutely loved this book, and reading books that suck me in like this one did is exactly why I read at all. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good angel story, and who doesn't mind a good cry.
This book made me cry multiple times, because I'm a sap, and because I felt for this character. There's something so heart wrenching about that feeling you get when you want to be loved, but you push it away because you don't know how to process it when it comes. Yes, some people might be annoyed with how the character handles herself in the face of a dying woman, and a loving family. But, when you've been abandoned most of your life it's a very real and raw reaction to push away that small glimmer of hope that what you've been missing all of your life is finally within your reach. Because you're used to not having it, and once it's in your hands it would be even more devastating to have it snatched away from you all over again.
This book tears at those core feelings, and it's bundled in a beautiful love story.
I absolutely loved this book, and reading books that suck me in like this one did is exactly why I read at all. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good angel story, and who doesn't mind a good cry.
March 20, 2014
4 3/4 stars. It's official. I LOVE Anna Katmore. This book is sweet, unexpected, full of just enough romance, and even quite heart wrenching at times.
I found 'Play With Me' a while back in the Kindle store for free. I read that and then quickly bought and also read 'Ryan Hunter'. I loved both of those books and when I also saw this one I had to get it. I will say, this is my favorite read by Anna Katmore to date.
We start out meeting Jona, who has grown up most of her life in an orphanage in London after her mother dropped her off when she was a child. You immediately feel for this girl, and realize what a hard life she has had to live. She has deep rooted feelings of abandonment, so you can imagine her disgust at finding out her sentence for stealing is being forced to go to France to live with family she has never met to work in their vineyard, but also to spend that time with her mother who abandoned her.
In the beginning and through most of the first half of this book, I was seeing red when it came to her mother, and found it incredibly satisfying in a way to hear Jona refer to her often as 'the dragon'. She actually doesn't push herself onto Jona like I thought she might, but her companion, Julian, almost immediately lets his dissatisfaction be known to Jona in his wishes that she might forgive her mother. To be honest, I didn't want her to be forgiven. I didn't care that her mother had a terminal disease, I didn't care that she was frail or sickly. I saw what she did to her daughter, almost unforgivable. I honestly loved the journey Jona took, through almost the entire book, to actually come to a place where forgiveness was possible. I needed that time as the reader to also come to terms with the forgiveness she is finally offered and I was REALLY glad it wasn't rushed. Even though there were still some issues that still make my blood boil when I think of them, the situation was realistic, and healing in the end.
Now let's get down to Julian and Jona. Seriously, I LOVED these two. I liked that she was feisty, and unforgiving, and wanted to be hard to love. It was very realistic to me that someone who grew up the way she did would have a hard time letting people in to her heart, both with her aunt Marie, and also with Julian. There are so many scenes with Julian and Jona that I loved so much. The build of their relationship was so fun to read. I enjoyed it immensely. I loved these two together and as the book progressed I loved their relationship more and more. There is a scene where Julian takes Jona to the beach and I seriously could have read that one for hours. She finally showed him who she really was with no walls and it made those moments between them some of my favorite. His love for her was palpable, and with his ability to slow down time whenever he wanted, it made those scenes even better. Very swoon-worthy without ever going too far, I mean, come on...he's an angel.
It wasn't hard to figure out how these two could stay together, and I found myself increasingly frustrated with Jona when she couldn't seem to see what was staring her in the face. Even with that, the end was so good, and happy, and satisfying. I LOVED this book. My only complaint was I wish there could have been an epilogue. I was very happy when I finished, but I did want a tiny bit more. Such a good read. I would highly recommend this one.
I found 'Play With Me' a while back in the Kindle store for free. I read that and then quickly bought and also read 'Ryan Hunter'. I loved both of those books and when I also saw this one I had to get it. I will say, this is my favorite read by Anna Katmore to date.
We start out meeting Jona, who has grown up most of her life in an orphanage in London after her mother dropped her off when she was a child. You immediately feel for this girl, and realize what a hard life she has had to live. She has deep rooted feelings of abandonment, so you can imagine her disgust at finding out her sentence for stealing is being forced to go to France to live with family she has never met to work in their vineyard, but also to spend that time with her mother who abandoned her.
In the beginning and through most of the first half of this book, I was seeing red when it came to her mother, and found it incredibly satisfying in a way to hear Jona refer to her often as 'the dragon'. She actually doesn't push herself onto Jona like I thought she might, but her companion, Julian, almost immediately lets his dissatisfaction be known to Jona in his wishes that she might forgive her mother. To be honest, I didn't want her to be forgiven. I didn't care that her mother had a terminal disease, I didn't care that she was frail or sickly. I saw what she did to her daughter, almost unforgivable. I honestly loved the journey Jona took, through almost the entire book, to actually come to a place where forgiveness was possible. I needed that time as the reader to also come to terms with the forgiveness she is finally offered and I was REALLY glad it wasn't rushed. Even though there were still some issues that still make my blood boil when I think of them, the situation was realistic, and healing in the end.
Now let's get down to Julian and Jona. Seriously, I LOVED these two. I liked that she was feisty, and unforgiving, and wanted to be hard to love. It was very realistic to me that someone who grew up the way she did would have a hard time letting people in to her heart, both with her aunt Marie, and also with Julian. There are so many scenes with Julian and Jona that I loved so much. The build of their relationship was so fun to read. I enjoyed it immensely. I loved these two together and as the book progressed I loved their relationship more and more. There is a scene where Julian takes Jona to the beach and I seriously could have read that one for hours. She finally showed him who she really was with no walls and it made those moments between them some of my favorite. His love for her was palpable, and with his ability to slow down time whenever he wanted, it made those scenes even better. Very swoon-worthy without ever going too far, I mean, come on...he's an angel.
It wasn't hard to figure out how these two could stay together, and I found myself increasingly frustrated with Jona when she couldn't seem to see what was staring her in the face. Even with that, the end was so good, and happy, and satisfying. I LOVED this book. My only complaint was I wish there could have been an epilogue. I was very happy when I finished, but I did want a tiny bit more. Such a good read. I would highly recommend this one.
November 9, 2012
I Love this book! This story was brilliantly executed, with a handsome angel, falling for a troubled almost 18 year old girl. This story swept me away, and I love Julian. I had dreams about this story when I went to bed. It stayed with me and gave me chills too.
Jona is the heroine of this story, and I found I did like her. She remained true to herself, even while learning to forgive her mother and those hot complex feelings she has for Julian, that just increase. This is a compelling, page-turning, edge of your seat read. I had tears, laughter, sadness and happiness all wrapped up in this amazing YA paranormal romance. We are able to connect with this young abandoned girls trek into adulthood. I really enjoyed this book.
I really liked Julian, he is one hot angel. He really has found a place in my heart. I had to pick up another book to read, for a tour as soon as I was done, but I didn’t want too, lol, felt like a book hangover, just didn’t want to move on from this remarkable story.
Here is a quote I love:
No girlfriend. Heck, this really shouldn't make me so happy.
The pounding of my heart annoyed me something awful. Especially when he must’ve caught it with my ribcage pressed so snugly against his chest. And a firm chest it was.
Out of a habit when I felt insecure, I resorted to my snappy tone. “See, that might be different if you were a little nicer to girls to begin with.”
“It might,” he whispered, igniting little shivers down my neck.
And then he brought his face very close to mine. “And yet, here I stand, holding you in my arms after only three days.”
I wont say too much more about the story itself, because to me the best part was discovering this journey with Jona and Julian. I won’t spoil it for you.
I will leave you with this funny tidbit (Jona's aunt is the one speaking)
Julian still held me captive with his gaze. His eyes sparked as though he knew what would come next and just waited patiently for my reaction.
“Luckily, Julian offered to show you around and to—” She paused and pursed her lips. “—to entertain you.”
Having just sipped from her coffee, my mother spit the entire load in a spray of drops over her plate then coughed as if her life had met an early end.
“Good gracious, Charlene!” My aunt clapped a hand to her chest. Then she fetched a napkin and, leaning over the table, wiped up the mess. “Are you feeling all right?”
“And I thought you’d only get this in films.” Washed with disgust, I rolled my eyes.
Very well written, I see lots of promise in Piper Shelly’s career.
5 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for my honest review.
July 10, 2013
*I received the book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
After reading and liking two of Piper Shelly's other books last month, I had high hopes for Loving Your Lies. It didn't disappoint, not one bit. Since I've now read three of her books, I think it's safe to say that she's a consistently good writer. When I saw the opportunity to host a stop on this tour, I jumped on it. Play With Me & Ryan Hunter are good books that leave the reader happy when the last page is turned. I think I like Loving Your Lies just a bit more, and here's why:
Jona and Julian
Sure plot is important in any story, but it's the characters that pull at the reader's heart. If the reader doesn't connect with the characters, doesn't feel their emotions, I guarantee they won't love the book. Main character, Jona, took me through a plethora of emotions on her wild ride, and I enjoyed every minute of it.
The story is written in first person from Jona's point of view. She is a spitfire, rebellious teen who locked up her heart when she was abandoned in an orphanage as a child. It's difficult not to like Jona, her spirit alone is uplifting. I love her wit, the crazy things she says to those in authority to hide her unease and fear. Jona pulled me into the story so completely, I lost track of everything else.
Enter Julian, her mother's caretaker. It's always a challenge in books written in first person to show the reader another character's personality since we are never in that character's thoughts. Piper Shelly does a great job bringing across Julian's personality through his actions and dialogue. Though he can be sarcastic at times, he comes across as an angel (pun intended). Julian is caught between his job to care for Jona's estranged mother and Jona herself.
The peripheral characters are fun. Marie and Albert, Jona's aunt and uncle, are sweet, if not oblivious. Jona's mother is suitably pathetic in her illness and weakness. Quinn, a police officer, almost seems to good to be true. Jona was very lucky to befriend him.
This is a romance, but also a mystery as Jona tries to figure out just what Julian really is. Normally I avoid angel books, but since Piper Shelly wrote this one I was eager to read it, and am truly glad that I did. I'll admit, I did my share of crying throughout the book; sometimes it was hard to see the screen through the tears. I also laughed out loud quite a bit. Sometimes the things that went through Jona's mind were hysterical.
Because Jona's character is so much fun, I would consider this book light hearted. You might want to avoid taking it to the pool or the beach due to the tear factor though. I love reading a book that leaves me feeling good when it's over. I recommend Loving Your Lies to everyone high school and up that enjoys a sweet romance with a touch of the paranormal and a splash of hilarity.
After reading and liking two of Piper Shelly's other books last month, I had high hopes for Loving Your Lies. It didn't disappoint, not one bit. Since I've now read three of her books, I think it's safe to say that she's a consistently good writer. When I saw the opportunity to host a stop on this tour, I jumped on it. Play With Me & Ryan Hunter are good books that leave the reader happy when the last page is turned. I think I like Loving Your Lies just a bit more, and here's why:
Jona and Julian
Sure plot is important in any story, but it's the characters that pull at the reader's heart. If the reader doesn't connect with the characters, doesn't feel their emotions, I guarantee they won't love the book. Main character, Jona, took me through a plethora of emotions on her wild ride, and I enjoyed every minute of it.
The story is written in first person from Jona's point of view. She is a spitfire, rebellious teen who locked up her heart when she was abandoned in an orphanage as a child. It's difficult not to like Jona, her spirit alone is uplifting. I love her wit, the crazy things she says to those in authority to hide her unease and fear. Jona pulled me into the story so completely, I lost track of everything else.
Enter Julian, her mother's caretaker. It's always a challenge in books written in first person to show the reader another character's personality since we are never in that character's thoughts. Piper Shelly does a great job bringing across Julian's personality through his actions and dialogue. Though he can be sarcastic at times, he comes across as an angel (pun intended). Julian is caught between his job to care for Jona's estranged mother and Jona herself.
The peripheral characters are fun. Marie and Albert, Jona's aunt and uncle, are sweet, if not oblivious. Jona's mother is suitably pathetic in her illness and weakness. Quinn, a police officer, almost seems to good to be true. Jona was very lucky to befriend him.
This is a romance, but also a mystery as Jona tries to figure out just what Julian really is. Normally I avoid angel books, but since Piper Shelly wrote this one I was eager to read it, and am truly glad that I did. I'll admit, I did my share of crying throughout the book; sometimes it was hard to see the screen through the tears. I also laughed out loud quite a bit. Sometimes the things that went through Jona's mind were hysterical.
Because Jona's character is so much fun, I would consider this book light hearted. You might want to avoid taking it to the pool or the beach due to the tear factor though. I love reading a book that leaves me feeling good when it's over. I recommend Loving Your Lies to everyone high school and up that enjoys a sweet romance with a touch of the paranormal and a splash of hilarity.
September 21, 2012
Her Game His Rules, by Piper Shelly, is a mesmerizing, compelling story that captures you from the beginning and holds your heart until the end. This story will have you laughing, cheering and even crying as it unfolds, and the effects will stay with you long after you close the book.
It’s an emotional story about 17 year old Jona Montiniere who is trapped in a lonely world without trust or love. She uses her tough exterior to push people away but it’s just a mask hiding the pain from all the struggles she has had to endure. Past tragedies robbed her of her childhood and loved ones that still haunt her dreams. Her lack of trust pushes her into trouble until a series of errors brings Julian into her life. With time running out Julian must prove to Jona that her life of sadness and loss can change by learning to trust, love and forgive. Something Jona has sworn to never do.
Jona and Julian’s story will take you on an emotional roller coaster as they discover life, love and what it means to make the ultimate sacrifice for the ones you have to let go.
I give this book 5 stars. A must have for any library.
September 15, 2013
It took me awhile to get used to Jona’s snarky attitude, but I never disliked her. I could understand her anger and frustration.
The story starts with Jona contemplating then actually stealing a sweater. Ugh, my heart went out for her. Jona think she is still not 18 that she will get off by just being grounded in her room for a couple of weeks, but that does not happen. She is “sentenced” to stay at her uncle and aunt’s vineyard which happens to be where her mother (who she despises) is living as well; the same mother who left her at the orphanage at the age of 5 years old. Jona is not happy about being anywhere near her mother for her 6 week “sentence.”
However, this is a sweet story of an angel who falls for a somewhat troubled “lost” 17 year old girl. Julian is Jona’s aunt’s caretaker. He is sweet and gorgeous and compassionate. You will love him.
My only problem was that it took me awhile to get into the story. The first couple of pages are about Jona and the whole process of her stealing the sweater. I thought that could have been summed up in a few paragraphs. It was a slow read sometimes even though it was a beautiful story.
The story starts with Jona contemplating then actually stealing a sweater. Ugh, my heart went out for her. Jona think she is still not 18 that she will get off by just being grounded in her room for a couple of weeks, but that does not happen. She is “sentenced” to stay at her uncle and aunt’s vineyard which happens to be where her mother (who she despises) is living as well; the same mother who left her at the orphanage at the age of 5 years old. Jona is not happy about being anywhere near her mother for her 6 week “sentence.”
However, this is a sweet story of an angel who falls for a somewhat troubled “lost” 17 year old girl. Julian is Jona’s aunt’s caretaker. He is sweet and gorgeous and compassionate. You will love him.
My only problem was that it took me awhile to get into the story. The first couple of pages are about Jona and the whole process of her stealing the sweater. I thought that could have been summed up in a few paragraphs. It was a slow read sometimes even though it was a beautiful story.
January 29, 2013
Laughter , tears, amazement and the need to slap a smart ass 17 year old girl for being rude to a dying woman who abandoned her when she was five propel Her Game, His Rules by Piper Shelly to its ‘ah’ ending.
Two things I kept questioning throughout the story was why Jona’s mother gave her up for adoption and how the relationship between an angel (Julian) and a human (Jona) would come to fruition. Normally I would skip to the end of the book to find the answers to the persistent questions, but I found this story to be so enchanting and enthralling that I didn’t have the heart to ruin the ending for myself.
I never would have thought that the love between an angel and a human could break through my ‘angels are great while humans are unworthy’ thinking, but Piper’s wonderfully descriptive story telling not only made it a likely possibility in my mind and heart, but one that I rooted for throughout the book because as Julian said, “Love can never be wrong.”
Her Game, His Rules was a delightful read and I’m still smiling just thinking about it.
Two things I kept questioning throughout the story was why Jona’s mother gave her up for adoption and how the relationship between an angel (Julian) and a human (Jona) would come to fruition. Normally I would skip to the end of the book to find the answers to the persistent questions, but I found this story to be so enchanting and enthralling that I didn’t have the heart to ruin the ending for myself.
I never would have thought that the love between an angel and a human could break through my ‘angels are great while humans are unworthy’ thinking, but Piper’s wonderfully descriptive story telling not only made it a likely possibility in my mind and heart, but one that I rooted for throughout the book because as Julian said, “Love can never be wrong.”
Her Game, His Rules was a delightful read and I’m still smiling just thinking about it.
January 2, 2015
I loved this book. I loved all the characters and became completely caught up in their developing relationships. This has been one of my favourite reads this year and I’ve recommended it a few times already.
It’s a Young Adult romance about a girl, Jona, who grew up in a children’s home after being abandoned by her mother. When she is caught by the police for stealing, she is sent to live with her aunt in France.
Here she has one last chance to reconcile with her mother, who is dying of cancer.
Julian, her mother’s carer is a welcome distraction, but the more she gets to know him, the more she wonders about the mysterious man who brings happiness wherever he goes.
The book has a gritty side, as Jona deals with her mother’s abandonment and later death, but it’s so lovely to see her opening up and finally starting to trust that she could have a better life.
The budding romance with Julian is beautiful, I was willing her to open up to him and loved every moment of it.
It’s a Young Adult romance about a girl, Jona, who grew up in a children’s home after being abandoned by her mother. When she is caught by the police for stealing, she is sent to live with her aunt in France.
Here she has one last chance to reconcile with her mother, who is dying of cancer.
Julian, her mother’s carer is a welcome distraction, but the more she gets to know him, the more she wonders about the mysterious man who brings happiness wherever he goes.
The book has a gritty side, as Jona deals with her mother’s abandonment and later death, but it’s so lovely to see her opening up and finally starting to trust that she could have a better life.
The budding romance with Julian is beautiful, I was willing her to open up to him and loved every moment of it.
September 12, 2012
Shelly’s writing is good, her plot well thought out, and her characters believable. I admit I had a little trouble buying that an angel, thousands of years old, could fall for a seventeen-year-old, but for the most part, the story felt very authentic. The dialogue was particularly good, and Shelly kept it true to the characters better than some well-known authors I’ve read. In fact, the writing is so well done, I was surprised that this was a debut author. I was especially enchanted with Julian. He seemed to have so many conflicting emotions, I couldn’t help but sympathize with him. All in all, a stunning achievement for this first time author.
September 21, 2013
Between fantasy and reality
This was lovely read, a story about forgiveness, love and new begginings. There were times I was reminded of Twilight and Heavenly series by Jennifer Laurens but all in all, great. I liked Jona, she was feisty and funny and I felt for her with everything that happened in the past and with everything that happens in the book. Julian was awesome. Of course, I knew what he really was from the beggining but it was interesting to see Jonas suspicions and her finding out. I liked how it all played out in the end, that three little words finally bring back happiness to Jona. Great read.
This was lovely read, a story about forgiveness, love and new begginings. There were times I was reminded of Twilight and Heavenly series by Jennifer Laurens but all in all, great. I liked Jona, she was feisty and funny and I felt for her with everything that happened in the past and with everything that happens in the book. Julian was awesome. Of course, I knew what he really was from the beggining but it was interesting to see Jonas suspicions and her finding out. I liked how it all played out in the end, that three little words finally bring back happiness to Jona. Great read.
September 10, 2013
Omfg I freaking loved this. I'm a sucker for a good angel book and this definitely was. I liked right off the bat that this wasn't a typical plot line. It was new and fresh with the angel theme which in my opinion is hard to do. But this author did it effortlessly and I was very satisfied throughout the novel. I never wanted to put it down and finished it in just over a day. Highly recommend if you like angel stories or just good romance in general.
August 19, 2016
Heart Stirring!!
This book nearly brought me to tears it was so good! I would take Julian as my angel any day-to-day their such a great couple! this book is so real and so original, I love it so much. I can't find half the words to describe such a masterpiece!!!!! <3<3<3 Caution: This book will bring you to tears it's so good!!!!
<3Jona&Julian<3 FOREVER!!! <3
This book nearly brought me to tears it was so good! I would take Julian as my angel any day-to-day their such a great couple! this book is so real and so original, I love it so much. I can't find half the words to describe such a masterpiece!!!!! <3<3<3 Caution: This book will bring you to tears it's so good!!!!
<3Jona&Julian<3 FOREVER!!! <3
August 16, 2014
3.5/5.0
Ms. Shelly has done an excellent job portraying a girl who has grown up in the “system”, without love and carrying a painful past.
Full review in the February 2013 issue of InD'Tale Magazine.
Ms. Shelly has done an excellent job portraying a girl who has grown up in the “system”, without love and carrying a painful past.
Full review in the February 2013 issue of InD'Tale Magazine.
September 10, 2013
Oooo I loved this book it was kinda slow at the beginning but the relationship between Jona and Julian was super cute. I loved the end but would have liked it to go a little further. I really love Piper Shelly's writing style and would totally read more of her books
January 29, 2014
4.5!! What a BEAUTIFUL story of love and forgiveness. I will admit that it took me a bit to figure it all out, but at the end I knew exactly what he wanted her to say... I found myself saying "ohhhhh just tell him women!"
I love the twist at the end! :-D great job Anna!
I love the twist at the end! :-D great job Anna!
Want to read
August 28, 2013Amazon Freebie 8/27/13
July 6, 2016
Didn't finish it
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