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Bitter Sweet Revenge
Palmerston North, New Zealand
It's summer 1985, the school year is almost over, and Katie is deeply in the closet. The last thing she wants is to become a target for bullies.
When a group of popular girls invite her to hang out, she finally has a chance to be part of the in-crowd. Her excitement quickly turns to fear, and she barely escapes their trap. It's the last time she’ll ever be so naive.
Haunted by that day, Katie shuts herself away, dreaming of payback. When fantastical thoughts turn to reality, vengeance is bitter sweet.
Convinced she's not a good person, Katie resigns herself to a life alone. But fate has other plans.
When she crosses paths with an outgoing redhead, she's forced to re-examine the walls she's built around her heart.
It's summer 1985, the school year is almost over, and Katie is deeply in the closet. The last thing she wants is to become a target for bullies.
When a group of popular girls invite her to hang out, she finally has a chance to be part of the in-crowd. Her excitement quickly turns to fear, and she barely escapes their trap. It's the last time she’ll ever be so naive.
Haunted by that day, Katie shuts herself away, dreaming of payback. When fantastical thoughts turn to reality, vengeance is bitter sweet.
Convinced she's not a good person, Katie resigns herself to a life alone. But fate has other plans.
When she crosses paths with an outgoing redhead, she's forced to re-examine the walls she's built around her heart.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2019
27 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Donna Jay
38 books462 followersIn 2016, Donna Jay published her first sapphic romance. Since then, she has published eighteen more books, three of which made the number one spot in lesbian fiction.
Her stories feature resilient women, thought-provoking storylines, have plenty of heat, and are all set against the stunning backdrop of her home country, New Zealand.
She also writes sweet romances under the name Diana Jayne.
When she’s not writing, Donna can be found with her nose stuck in a book, or her backside glued to the sofa, binge-watching post-apocalyptic movies.
Sign up for her newsletter here - https://donnajayauthor.com/subscribe
Connect with Donna Jay
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Email - donna.jay.books@hotmail.com
Her stories feature resilient women, thought-provoking storylines, have plenty of heat, and are all set against the stunning backdrop of her home country, New Zealand.
She also writes sweet romances under the name Diana Jayne.
When she’s not writing, Donna can be found with her nose stuck in a book, or her backside glued to the sofa, binge-watching post-apocalyptic movies.
Sign up for her newsletter here - https://donnajayauthor.com/subscribe
Connect with Donna Jay
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Email - donna.jay.books@hotmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
March 1, 2019
Donna Jay’s newest book is a departure from what she normally writes. If you have read Jay before you know she mostly writes steamy and erotic-romances, usually with light BDSM. If you have shied away from trying her books before (I know some people don’t like to read BDSM) now is a chance to try her writing. This book is completely different as a YA coming out story. For me personally, I did like her books a Ticket To Love and Mistaken Identity better, but that is because I’m not the biggest YA fan and I like Jay’s heat in her erotic-romances. But even with me not being a big YA fan I still enjoyed this. The story hooked me in early and I enjoyed this read.
This story is about the life of Katie from age 15-18. Katie is deep in the closet but still finds herself the target of bullies. After surviving a vicious attack Katie sees only two options in front of her. Hide away and let the world slip by, or get revenge. Which path will Katie take and will the chance of love change her options?
While an attempted sexual assault and some mild violence are not easy to read about, this is not a dark book. This is a story about growth, hope and acceptance back in the 80’s where the aids crisis caused homophobia to be rampant. This is about a young girl trying to figure out where she belongs. There was also some lite humor which helped keep the book on the sweet side.
This does have a romance but it’s a sweet YA romance. Like I said before I did miss that heat of Jay’s other books but the characters are underage for most of the book and it would have been uncomfortable if they were constantly hot and heavy. Instead the relationship was sweet and you had hope that these two would make it together.
I’m a fan of Jay’s and will read any books she writes. I appreciate she took a chance on something different. I thought this was a well written sweet YA romance. If you are a YA fan or a Jay fan, I think you will be happy with this.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
This story is about the life of Katie from age 15-18. Katie is deep in the closet but still finds herself the target of bullies. After surviving a vicious attack Katie sees only two options in front of her. Hide away and let the world slip by, or get revenge. Which path will Katie take and will the chance of love change her options?
While an attempted sexual assault and some mild violence are not easy to read about, this is not a dark book. This is a story about growth, hope and acceptance back in the 80’s where the aids crisis caused homophobia to be rampant. This is about a young girl trying to figure out where she belongs. There was also some lite humor which helped keep the book on the sweet side.
This does have a romance but it’s a sweet YA romance. Like I said before I did miss that heat of Jay’s other books but the characters are underage for most of the book and it would have been uncomfortable if they were constantly hot and heavy. Instead the relationship was sweet and you had hope that these two would make it together.
I’m a fan of Jay’s and will read any books she writes. I appreciate she took a chance on something different. I thought this was a well written sweet YA romance. If you are a YA fan or a Jay fan, I think you will be happy with this.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
November 11, 2019
Bitter Sweet Revenge
follows the life of Katie Parker, who a week before her 16th birthday gets assaulted by three of her female classmates.
That sentence alone is enough reason why you should not read this book if any of trigger warnings mentioned below brothers you. However I was pleasantly surprised when I kept reading and realized that this book is essentially a two year journey of Katie not only regaining her confidence due to her low self esteem issues but also getting her revenge on the girls responsible for the attack.
Now normally, I'm not the type to condone getting payback on anyone but the truth is I had a more than maniacal look of glee on my face when reading those scenes. Sometimes people need a dose of their own medicine and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to read what would happen next.
Aside from a violent beginning the book contains little angst (or i'm just too desensitized) and is quite a departure from Donna Jay's normal style of writing. Don't expect any hot and heavy scenes in this one ladies. Fair warning; it does however contain lots of homophobic rants and slurs given that the book takes place between 1985-1987.
This is not an easy book to read but it's so worth it and definitely one of my favorites by DJ. Overall rating is a 3,75*.
TW: attempted sexual assault/rape, underage drinking, homophobic slurs, HIV/AIDS stigma.
That sentence alone is enough reason why you should not read this book if any of trigger warnings mentioned below brothers you. However I was pleasantly surprised when I kept reading and realized that this book is essentially a two year journey of Katie not only regaining her confidence due to her low self esteem issues but also getting her revenge on the girls responsible for the attack.
Now normally, I'm not the type to condone getting payback on anyone but the truth is I had a more than maniacal look of glee on my face when reading those scenes. Sometimes people need a dose of their own medicine and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to read what would happen next.
Aside from a violent beginning the book contains little angst (or i'm just too desensitized) and is quite a departure from Donna Jay's normal style of writing. Don't expect any hot and heavy scenes in this one ladies. Fair warning; it does however contain lots of homophobic rants and slurs given that the book takes place between 1985-1987.
This is not an easy book to read but it's so worth it and definitely one of my favorites by DJ. Overall rating is a 3,75*.
TW: attempted sexual assault/rape, underage drinking, homophobic slurs, HIV/AIDS stigma.
April 11, 2019
One thing I really like about Jay’s writing is the realism she imbues her characters and settings with. They’re portrayed as realistic people with ordinary jobs. So while this novel is a bit of a departure from her normally sexy romances, it still has the hallmarks of her style which I’ve come to enjoy reading. Set in the late 80s in New Zealand, 16-year-old Katie is writing the last of her exams for the year when she’s invited to join three girls from the cool crowd for the afternoon. What she hopes is a chance to make friends ends up in a traumatic assault that she manages to escape from. Broken and afraid she retreats into herself, determined not to return to school.
A story that could be very dark and depressing, is actually quite a sweet story about a young woman finding her strength and taking back her power. The cast of characters are three dimensional and Gillian, Katie’s friend, is a great counterbalance in that she knows who she is, says what she means and has come out of her own childhood torment with a wonderfully positive attitude.
The era was a nice trip down memory lane with references to music, cars and movies. It’s not often that I read young adult novels but I’m not averse to reading them either. This one is well worth reading.
In case you have concerns around the assault,
A story that could be very dark and depressing, is actually quite a sweet story about a young woman finding her strength and taking back her power. The cast of characters are three dimensional and Gillian, Katie’s friend, is a great counterbalance in that she knows who she is, says what she means and has come out of her own childhood torment with a wonderfully positive attitude.
The era was a nice trip down memory lane with references to music, cars and movies. It’s not often that I read young adult novels but I’m not averse to reading them either. This one is well worth reading.
In case you have concerns around the assault,
July 21, 2019
4.5 stars.
It’s difficult for me to review this book, not because it’s bad; in fact, it’s great. It’s hard for me because it brought back memories I’d rather forget. But it also gave me a taste of justice I didn’t have the opportunity, nor the ability to deliver. So I understand exactly what Katie in the book goes through, and it felt exhilarating when she paid it back. Just for that the book is worth 5 stars to me.
Katie’s personal journey was something I enjoyed and identified with as well. How she could take back control of her life and succeed despite everything is meaningful and inspirational to me. It’s still something I’m working on.
I also liked the characters, especially the supporting cast - brother and parents. All of them felt like real people to me. The romance interest is great as well, but maybe she’s a bit too perfect.
In fact, that’s my only issue with this book. It reads a bit too much like wish fulfillment. The ending ties up all knots up too easily, which doesn’t mesh with the dark beginning of the book or the revenge plot. Rather than Katie taking control of her destiny, it felt more like the world changed to fix all Katie’s problems.
But I love the book and I appreciate what Donna has done with it. It’s definitely not a cookie cutter lesbian romance we usually get. If you’re looking for something different, then this read might be right up your alley.
This book was given to me by the author for a fair review.
It’s difficult for me to review this book, not because it’s bad; in fact, it’s great. It’s hard for me because it brought back memories I’d rather forget. But it also gave me a taste of justice I didn’t have the opportunity, nor the ability to deliver. So I understand exactly what Katie in the book goes through, and it felt exhilarating when she paid it back. Just for that the book is worth 5 stars to me.
Katie’s personal journey was something I enjoyed and identified with as well. How she could take back control of her life and succeed despite everything is meaningful and inspirational to me. It’s still something I’m working on.
I also liked the characters, especially the supporting cast - brother and parents. All of them felt like real people to me. The romance interest is great as well, but maybe she’s a bit too perfect.
In fact, that’s my only issue with this book. It reads a bit too much like wish fulfillment. The ending ties up all knots up too easily, which doesn’t mesh with the dark beginning of the book or the revenge plot. Rather than Katie taking control of her destiny, it felt more like the world changed to fix all Katie’s problems.
But I love the book and I appreciate what Donna has done with it. It’s definitely not a cookie cutter lesbian romance we usually get. If you’re looking for something different, then this read might be right up your alley.
This book was given to me by the author for a fair review.
March 2, 2019
Wow. Different from her other books I can tell you that. Masterly done Ms Jay. It's a must read. Karma always find its way.
July 13, 2019
Buy it, read it, love it!
Let’s start with saying that when a book touches me, I get this tingly feeling in my fingers. When reading this book I got tingly fingers ánd I had to cry because I got something in my eyes while reading, really ;).
I stepped out off my comfort zone for this read. Never read YA before (accept when I was one myself in another century, but never this specific genre), so I am definitely not an expert. But liking the style of the author in other books, I took a chance and am glad I did.
Reading Katies story brought me back to my teens, how awfully cruel the world can be at that age. When you’re the subject of someone with a mean streak thats terrible, but when that mean streak turns out to be more freakish than mean, that’s when you get very damaged young adults. And that’s what Katie’s story is about.
I have to say I don’t approve how she eventually handled it, ill advised by a coworker, but I do understand it. Bittersweet it is.
In this book you’ll read about abuse, coming out, first love and family dynamics. Despite the hefty subject it’s a nice read and it’s written with humour. I would not have minded a more lengthy version of this book, it was a shame when I read the words “the end”. I think I just have to pick up another one of Donna Jays books.
Let’s start with saying that when a book touches me, I get this tingly feeling in my fingers. When reading this book I got tingly fingers ánd I had to cry because I got something in my eyes while reading, really ;).
I stepped out off my comfort zone for this read. Never read YA before (accept when I was one myself in another century, but never this specific genre), so I am definitely not an expert. But liking the style of the author in other books, I took a chance and am glad I did.
Reading Katies story brought me back to my teens, how awfully cruel the world can be at that age. When you’re the subject of someone with a mean streak thats terrible, but when that mean streak turns out to be more freakish than mean, that’s when you get very damaged young adults. And that’s what Katie’s story is about.
I have to say I don’t approve how she eventually handled it, ill advised by a coworker, but I do understand it. Bittersweet it is.
In this book you’ll read about abuse, coming out, first love and family dynamics. Despite the hefty subject it’s a nice read and it’s written with humour. I would not have minded a more lengthy version of this book, it was a shame when I read the words “the end”. I think I just have to pick up another one of Donna Jays books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2021
What was it to not conform to the norm in the 1980s? Little surprise – it was way worse than it is now. Donna Jay sets her book in the ‘80s and does a commendable job with capturing that time and being young in that era. The beauty of the writing is that while it vividly captures the 1980s, the emotions are not limited to just that point in time.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
August 18, 2019
This is my third Donna Jay book and I've been impressed by how different each one has been. Her writing style very much appeals to me and I find that I always relate to things in her work. This is set in the early to mid 80s and that was my era just after high school and figuring things out about my sexuality. Always I get a smile by particular references Jay includes in her books - this time by the music Katie listened to - Eurythmics especially, as they were my favorite band of that era as well (along with a Pat Benatar mention!) This is a story about how a very traumatic event shapes a young person's life and how she deals with it. The trauma itself was carefully written and disturbing, and the resulting revenge was as well. Especially one for me - I squirmed in discomfort. That said - it made me think about how we universally want to avenge a wrong and how that may or may not give us the closure that we need. What helps bring us through this difficult subject is a beautiful and sweet love story that is never forced, but very organic. There are also some very lovely family dynamics going on here as well. Another winner from Donna Jay.
Read
March 30, 2019ONLY SPECIAL FOR $1.99 TODAY ONLY (MAR 30TH)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NYWL9F2/ref
Bitter Sweet Revenge is now available on Amazon.
This is a total walk off the path for me, so please don't grab a copy if you're expecting an erotic romance.
Amazon.com - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NYWL9F2/ref
Amazon.co.uk - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bitter-Sweet...
Themes: Lesbian, 1980s, coming out, New Zealand, HEA.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NYWL9F2/ref
Bitter Sweet Revenge is now available on Amazon.This is a total walk off the path for me, so please don't grab a copy if you're expecting an erotic romance.
Amazon.com - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NYWL9F2/ref
Amazon.co.uk - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bitter-Sweet...
Themes: Lesbian, 1980s, coming out, New Zealand, HEA.
July 4, 2020
A good bitter sweet (is the clue in the title?) novel that says remarkably little very well. The age of the MCs is very young, 18 and 19, but there is a maturity about the story that belies their ages. Recommended.
February 24, 2019
Donna Jay's latest, "Bitter Sweet Revenge," is a real page-turner! I read it in one quick sitting. It's a real departure from her previous work and I applaud her for that! It is unlike any other book of hers, in story, in type, in tone, and in style. This book is about the trials and tribulations of a young woman who lost her innocence and naïveté on the most promising day of her life. That fateful day that would forever change how she viewed the world around her. Harrowing, intense, reflective, contemplative, Katie's road to facing her fears, obtaining peace, truth, reconciliation and ultimately experiencing the beginnings of love and hope was paved with delicate care and sensitivity, constructed at a deliberate pace. I was moved and captivated by Jay's honesty and conviction in weaving a story that felt utterly personal, inspiring, resonating, deeply relevant and thought-provoking.
Bullying - Fear - Trials and Retribution - Self-Discovery - Self-Reflection - Self-Actualisation - Facing the Truth - Coming Out - Letting Go - Moving On ...and finally...
LOVE + ROMANCE + TRUTH + HOPE + POSITIVITY
Full commentary here... In Bugs' Own Words
*A no-obligation ARC was given to me by the author herself, the kind and generous Donna Jay, much to me utter surprise, a very pleasant one, no less! Cheers, mate! Yes, your story has inspired me to comment on it.*
Bullying - Fear - Trials and Retribution - Self-Discovery - Self-Reflection - Self-Actualisation - Facing the Truth - Coming Out - Letting Go - Moving On ...and finally...
LOVE + ROMANCE + TRUTH + HOPE + POSITIVITY
Full commentary here... In Bugs' Own Words
*A no-obligation ARC was given to me by the author herself, the kind and generous Donna Jay, much to me utter surprise, a very pleasant one, no less! Cheers, mate! Yes, your story has inspired me to comment on it.*
April 30, 2019
Let me open this review with a confession. I was bullied in school. I was picked on, called names, pushed around, and set-up for extortion and betrayal. So, when we see Katie awkwardly tagging along with the cool kids in the first chapter of Bitter Sweet Revenge, my heart immediately went out to her . . . and when they invited her to the swimming hole after their exam, that heart crawled up into my throat because I knew she was being set-up. I was not expecting the level of cruelty that followed, but I knew it was not going to end well.
Writing a very different story that we are used to from her, Donna Jay shares a tale that is as much about coming out as coming of age. It is a deep, touching, heartfelt tale that is not afraid to explore the darker emotions - and I am not just talking about sorrow, self-pity, and shame. While this is not a story about revenge, it is one where revenge figures prominently, and it is indeed bittersweet.
What makes those scenes work, what keeps Katie from descending into the same level of cruelty as the cool girls, is partly the love of her family, particularly her brother, and her budding romance with Gillian. I loved Katie, but I was totally in love with Gillian. She knew her fair share of bullying too, but she rose above it and found the courage to fight back. Another confession, I found a similar courage in fifth grade. I waited until the class was quiet, stood up, walked across the room, and slapped my bully so hard he fell out of his seat. Gillian is that kind of girl, and her strength, her openness, her kindness, and her joy is infectious. It is through her that Katie finds the courage to be herself, to confront her past, and to embrace her future.
Final confession, I remember the anxiety and the terror of coming out so, when I felt that scene was looming, I put this down for a bit. I do not want to give the impression that Bitter Sweet Revenge is a dark and gloomy tale, but there was enough darkness to it, enough hints as to family prejudices, that I feared for Katie. I had to wait until I was mentally prepared to face that scene with her. No spoilers, but Donna Jay handles it masterfully, balancing the same emotions and attitudes that make the whole story so honest and engaging. This is not some fluffy cliched tale of love solving all the world's problems, but a realistic coming-of-age drama in which love is certainly a catalyst.
Filled with wonderful writing and memorable characters, Bitter Sweet Revenge gets inside your head and your heart, evoking memories and emotions that pull it all together.
https://bibrary.blogspot.com/2019/04/...
Writing a very different story that we are used to from her, Donna Jay shares a tale that is as much about coming out as coming of age. It is a deep, touching, heartfelt tale that is not afraid to explore the darker emotions - and I am not just talking about sorrow, self-pity, and shame. While this is not a story about revenge, it is one where revenge figures prominently, and it is indeed bittersweet.
What makes those scenes work, what keeps Katie from descending into the same level of cruelty as the cool girls, is partly the love of her family, particularly her brother, and her budding romance with Gillian. I loved Katie, but I was totally in love with Gillian. She knew her fair share of bullying too, but she rose above it and found the courage to fight back. Another confession, I found a similar courage in fifth grade. I waited until the class was quiet, stood up, walked across the room, and slapped my bully so hard he fell out of his seat. Gillian is that kind of girl, and her strength, her openness, her kindness, and her joy is infectious. It is through her that Katie finds the courage to be herself, to confront her past, and to embrace her future.
Final confession, I remember the anxiety and the terror of coming out so, when I felt that scene was looming, I put this down for a bit. I do not want to give the impression that Bitter Sweet Revenge is a dark and gloomy tale, but there was enough darkness to it, enough hints as to family prejudices, that I feared for Katie. I had to wait until I was mentally prepared to face that scene with her. No spoilers, but Donna Jay handles it masterfully, balancing the same emotions and attitudes that make the whole story so honest and engaging. This is not some fluffy cliched tale of love solving all the world's problems, but a realistic coming-of-age drama in which love is certainly a catalyst.
Filled with wonderful writing and memorable characters, Bitter Sweet Revenge gets inside your head and your heart, evoking memories and emotions that pull it all together.
https://bibrary.blogspot.com/2019/04/...
May 5, 2022
3.5 rounded up as I'm not the target audience.
If you add 5 years to the characters and add back the sexy bits, you've got a solid DJ book. Since this is YA and about betrayal and resolve, it's a bit different, in a good way. But the solid parts of a DJ story are all here.
I enjoyed the characters, and as always, DJ presents a variety of secondary characters and family members. I thought each was well developed, and added depth. In addition, the revenge scenes were intense - no fade-to-black here. Well done.
If you have liked her other books, read this one.
If you add 5 years to the characters and add back the sexy bits, you've got a solid DJ book. Since this is YA and about betrayal and resolve, it's a bit different, in a good way. But the solid parts of a DJ story are all here.
I enjoyed the characters, and as always, DJ presents a variety of secondary characters and family members. I thought each was well developed, and added depth. In addition, the revenge scenes were intense - no fade-to-black here. Well done.
If you have liked her other books, read this one.
June 14, 2021
This book could have been a simple "girl figures out she is a lesbian and deals with coming out to her family" story and it would have been interesting but Donna Jay takes it up a notch by adding an incident tied to the girl's sexuality that causes her to alter the course of her life. This made the story riveting.
I really enjoyed the relationship Katie had with her family, especially her relationship with her brother.
I really enjoyed the relationship Katie had with her family, especially her relationship with her brother.
February 23, 2019
I was a little nervous reading a story with bullying involved. But I’ve read every book Donna has out & I knew she wouldn’t push my buttons, too hard! I’m glad I took a chance on this one. Katie has a spark of hope that maybe she has finally gotten in good with the “In crowd” at her school. She is floating on cloud 9, thinking about all the possibilities that may be opening up for her. Only to have that cloud turn black when the group she’s asked to join has other plans for her at the river! Katie survives that day, but the memories haunt her and when the opportunity for revenge shows itself, will she take it or stay in her shell. Finding a new job and sharing her experience with her brother help her overcome the darkness of that cloud. New friends appear and a new villain enters the story. Will getting revenge be sweet or will it lead to bitterness?
The events in this book could’ve been darker, but Donna has written them in such a way that there really aren’t any of the usual triggers, that could be found in a book with bullying involved. I was bullied in school because of my last name. Not by my classmates, but at other schools when participating in sporting events. I think everyone will find a bit of themselves in this story. And when the red headed Gillian appears you will find the HEA we all look for in a good story!
The events in this book could’ve been darker, but Donna has written them in such a way that there really aren’t any of the usual triggers, that could be found in a book with bullying involved. I was bullied in school because of my last name. Not by my classmates, but at other schools when participating in sporting events. I think everyone will find a bit of themselves in this story. And when the red headed Gillian appears you will find the HEA we all look for in a good story!
July 5, 2019
Wow,
It's been a while since I read any of Donna's works, but when she asked if I would like to read this one, I immediately agreed.
This is a complete change from Donna's other books, and would probably be a great starting point for someone just getting into reading any new age, FF, or coming out books.
Set in New Zealand, this is a coming of age for a young Katie, it is perfectly written in a way that implies so much understanding. How understanding Katie's family are, is huge! Why can't we all be like that!? Of course there are always those who have no empathy of understanding, and we meet a couple of them!
As with most of Donna's books, it is not long and drawn out, but carefully thought out, and put together in the best possible way so the reader gets an amazing story, with nothing being taken away from it.
This is really a must read book!
It's a bit sad to see it has been tagged by one user as a rape. NO, it is not, Yes there is a scene where a rape is insinuated, but it never actually gets to that stage, and the way it is managed is spot on! There wouldn't really be a full story if it wasn't for this scene so it is integral to the story, please don't let this one misleading tag put you off! Hence the name of the book
Great work Donna, and thank you so much for letting me read this!
It's been a while since I read any of Donna's works, but when she asked if I would like to read this one, I immediately agreed.
This is a complete change from Donna's other books, and would probably be a great starting point for someone just getting into reading any new age, FF, or coming out books.
Set in New Zealand, this is a coming of age for a young Katie, it is perfectly written in a way that implies so much understanding. How understanding Katie's family are, is huge! Why can't we all be like that!? Of course there are always those who have no empathy of understanding, and we meet a couple of them!
As with most of Donna's books, it is not long and drawn out, but carefully thought out, and put together in the best possible way so the reader gets an amazing story, with nothing being taken away from it.
This is really a must read book!
It's a bit sad to see it has been tagged by one user as a rape. NO, it is not, Yes there is a scene where a rape is insinuated, but it never actually gets to that stage, and the way it is managed is spot on! There wouldn't really be a full story if it wasn't for this scene so it is integral to the story, please don't let this one misleading tag put you off! Hence the name of the book
Great work Donna, and thank you so much for letting me read this!
November 7, 2021
I usually avoid YA novels. However, being a big fan of Donna's more steamy books with older main characters, I gave it a spin.
After just a few pages, it was clear that Donna's empathtic writing style had me captivated again.
It has been a while for me, but Katie's journey through her uncertainties and pain until she finally was able to overcome her fears and claim her life back kept me glued to my E-Reader.
In the end the sweet and very tame interaction of the girls was so endearing that I didn't miss anything.
And for all Katies out there - I hope you find your Gillian!
After just a few pages, it was clear that Donna's empathtic writing style had me captivated again.
It has been a while for me, but Katie's journey through her uncertainties and pain until she finally was able to overcome her fears and claim her life back kept me glued to my E-Reader.
In the end the sweet and very tame interaction of the girls was so endearing that I didn't miss anything.
And for all Katies out there - I hope you find your Gillian!
January 2, 2022
3 stars
All right. This was interesting. I can't say I liked the MCs much, and the romance was lackluster at best (at least in my opinion), but as a revenge story this was good. Can't condone the actions taken, but it was well written and well thought out (even if predictable).
All right. This was interesting. I can't say I liked the MCs much, and the romance was lackluster at best (at least in my opinion), but as a revenge story this was good. Can't condone the actions taken, but it was well written and well thought out (even if predictable).
August 11, 2019
This book is exactly what it says on the cover. But I found the main character very endearing. Having been bullied myself I can relate to her. Although I was never assaulted. But ontop of all this it is a lovely sweet romance, coming out story. I loved it and would recommend as a lovely quick read.
August 3, 2019
Honestly, what a great story concept! The author’s words so deftly examined the inner struggle that many people experience at the hands of others. I found myself moved by emotions of anger at some characters, frustration with others and adoration of a few. You will have to read this to choose those for yourself, but I can assure you that you will want to experience the ride also. And I have no doubt you will enjoy many scenes as much as I did and may even cheer aloud as I did at some. I found this inspiring; it felt personal, honest and uplifting.
I truly enjoy it when an author can weave words together where I can picture a sandy beach, hear the timbre of a voice, imagine the antics of a chook wandering about, or smell the aroma of a cooked meal. She did that and more. It’s a talent and I enjoyed every morsel the author offered. This has great dialogue, strong characters, thoughtful scenes, humor throughout, and more than one timeless message. I found myself devouring it…and yes, cheering Katie. I never give spoilers so, go ahead, pick this up and read it to find out why!
I truly enjoy it when an author can weave words together where I can picture a sandy beach, hear the timbre of a voice, imagine the antics of a chook wandering about, or smell the aroma of a cooked meal. She did that and more. It’s a talent and I enjoyed every morsel the author offered. This has great dialogue, strong characters, thoughtful scenes, humor throughout, and more than one timeless message. I found myself devouring it…and yes, cheering Katie. I never give spoilers so, go ahead, pick this up and read it to find out why!
March 13, 2019
Endearing story
The torture Katie experienced was a great part of this story.
Finding Gillian was the best thing in her life. Introducing other characters into the story added the believability to the storyline. Especially Nana!
The torture Katie experienced was a great part of this story.
Finding Gillian was the best thing in her life. Introducing other characters into the story added the believability to the storyline. Especially Nana!
March 8, 2019
I really enjoyed the story this book conveys..took me back to what it was like for me in high school. Donna Jay knocked this one out of the park
December 25, 2024
Katie Parker is a shy and sweet girl and deep in the closet!
That's why she's so happy to finally be among the popular girls at school and thinks nothing of it when they invite her on a trip. What happens next is something she never saw coming and that changes her.
I don't want to imagine what it's like to live through the meanness and cruelty that these girls tried to inflict on Katie.
No wonder Katie is scared for a long time and bases her decisions accordingly.
The change she undergoes and the desire for revenge is completely understandable, but it also requires a lot of courage!
I have to admit I love books and films about revenge. Katie is doing everything right in my opinion.
It's hard enough when you go through changes that you don't yet understand and other people having fun with it or even getting violent is a no go.
It was certainly a different kind of book by Donna Jay. But one I really enjoyed.
Seeing Katie slowly come out of the closet and dare to stand up for herself was great.
The book works wonderfully even without many hot scenes and still has a lot of intimacy!
Thanks to Donna Jay for the Arc!
That's why she's so happy to finally be among the popular girls at school and thinks nothing of it when they invite her on a trip. What happens next is something she never saw coming and that changes her.
I don't want to imagine what it's like to live through the meanness and cruelty that these girls tried to inflict on Katie.
No wonder Katie is scared for a long time and bases her decisions accordingly.
The change she undergoes and the desire for revenge is completely understandable, but it also requires a lot of courage!
I have to admit I love books and films about revenge. Katie is doing everything right in my opinion.
It's hard enough when you go through changes that you don't yet understand and other people having fun with it or even getting violent is a no go.
It was certainly a different kind of book by Donna Jay. But one I really enjoyed.
Seeing Katie slowly come out of the closet and dare to stand up for herself was great.
The book works wonderfully even without many hot scenes and still has a lot of intimacy!
Thanks to Donna Jay for the Arc!
January 30, 2022
Not about revenge for cheating
SAPPHIC BOOK BINGO: full-time writer, meet-cute, unusual job, coming out story, non-US/UK setting (probably more categories)
TRIGGER: attempted sexual assault
The title could be deceiving, if you don't don't read book blurbs. There was only one protagonist in the story, and it was based on recall of events in her life. Katie was a victim of a an attack by three homophobic female schoolmates. The novel was about how she tried to cope afterwards, and the decisions she made to get some type of payback.
It was set during the mid-eighties, and those were different times, so people's attitudes and acceptances also differed. That influenced Katie, her life, and how her family dealt with her coming out. It was a serious novel, and the only romance was near the end, but it was a good read.
SAPPHIC BOOK BINGO: full-time writer, meet-cute, unusual job, coming out story, non-US/UK setting (probably more categories)
TRIGGER: attempted sexual assault
The title could be deceiving, if you don't don't read book blurbs. There was only one protagonist in the story, and it was based on recall of events in her life. Katie was a victim of a an attack by three homophobic female schoolmates. The novel was about how she tried to cope afterwards, and the decisions she made to get some type of payback.
It was set during the mid-eighties, and those were different times, so people's attitudes and acceptances also differed. That influenced Katie, her life, and how her family dealt with her coming out. It was a serious novel, and the only romance was near the end, but it was a good read.
March 13, 2023
80sin Pamly New Zealand
This was my first Donna Jay book that was in a totally different direction to her other books I've read & I still loved it. Set in Palmerston North in New Zealand I always love reading places from home. This one brought it back to the 80s & how it was a struggle trying to hide your true self. Being bullied & taking revenge on those bullies was apart I really enjoyed, I believe in karma & that's what happened. I could relate to Katie not being able to be her true self & afraid of coming out even closet to those she loved. Gillian being her true self & having the confidence to bring Katie out of herself & finally
being comfortable with who she was. Nana Parker what a surprise!! I recommend this book even if it's different from Donna's other books, it gives you a different perspective from a Katie at ages 16+.
This was my first Donna Jay book that was in a totally different direction to her other books I've read & I still loved it. Set in Palmerston North in New Zealand I always love reading places from home. This one brought it back to the 80s & how it was a struggle trying to hide your true self. Being bullied & taking revenge on those bullies was apart I really enjoyed, I believe in karma & that's what happened. I could relate to Katie not being able to be her true self & afraid of coming out even closet to those she loved. Gillian being her true self & having the confidence to bring Katie out of herself & finally
being comfortable with who she was. Nana Parker what a surprise!! I recommend this book even if it's different from Donna's other books, it gives you a different perspective from a Katie at ages 16+.
September 8, 2020
uBitter Sweet Revenge e
A story about a young school girl Kate is invited to join the in crowd. They meet up and go out and attack her viciously. She manages to escape only because one of them helps her. She becomes withdrawn and barely goes out. Kate tells her parents she doesn't wish to go back to school and intends to get a job. Which she gets a few days before school restarts.
Kate decided to get her revenge against the three.
This is a story about betrayal, bullying, coming out and more.
Donna Jay did a great job writing this my only concern was the odd typo but it didn't ruin the story.
Recommend --Yes. 4+ stars
A story about a young school girl Kate is invited to join the in crowd. They meet up and go out and attack her viciously. She manages to escape only because one of them helps her. She becomes withdrawn and barely goes out. Kate tells her parents she doesn't wish to go back to school and intends to get a job. Which she gets a few days before school restarts.
Kate decided to get her revenge against the three.
This is a story about betrayal, bullying, coming out and more.
Donna Jay did a great job writing this my only concern was the odd typo but it didn't ruin the story.
Recommend --Yes. 4+ stars
August 22, 2019
This story is about realizing who you are and getting past your past in order to live your best life. It was an enjoyable coming of age story. I was hooked right from the beginning and stayed up much too late reading it. The characters were believable and well developed and the romance was sweet. It touched on the vulnerability in many of us. I really liked this book. It's definitely worth reading. I haven't read any of this author's other books but I will be checking them out.
I received the book in exchange for an honest review.
I received the book in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2019
This is a new genre for Donna Jay and she did an amazing job capturing the struggle of being a teenager in the 1980's. There are some scenes that may trigger people but if you get through them they really aren't what they seem. It is a coming of age, coming out story that will evoke all kinds of emotions. It also shows how not to be a victim but rather a survivor. There are some interesting twists in this and truely I wanted the story to continue.
July 29, 2020
What a real page-turner! I just wanted to know more about what would happen and how she got her life back on track.
I don't think taking revenge is always a good thing, but to be honest, with this story I was rooting for it. It helped her get back some of her confidence and strenght. Also the support of her gf is really sweet.
There is also a little twist with one of the bullies, wich is a good turn of events in the book. It helped make some of her actions more clear.
I don't think taking revenge is always a good thing, but to be honest, with this story I was rooting for it. It helped her get back some of her confidence and strenght. Also the support of her gf is really sweet.
There is also a little twist with one of the bullies, wich is a good turn of events in the book. It helped make some of her actions more clear.
August 18, 2025
The story takes place in the 1980s, but it wasn't written then, so stop regurgitating outdated notions.
Men shouldn't use hormones as an excuse for sexual harassment. If that were true, then the actions of the three girls in the story wouldn't be a big deal.
Stop using double standards. Men's sexual harassment is far more severe, and women often condone it.
Men shouldn't use hormones as an excuse for sexual harassment. If that were true, then the actions of the three girls in the story wouldn't be a big deal.
Stop using double standards. Men's sexual harassment is far more severe, and women often condone it.
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