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Touched by Love #1
Make it Count
Casey's touch can reveal the one thing a person would never want to know -- the number of days they have left to live.
Seventeen-year-old Casey will do anything to avoid human touch, including faking a phobia. But when maple-eyed PJ rides his motorcycle into her life, she knows she's in trouble. He's hot, persistent and impossible to resist. When the inevitable happens; when hands, bodies, and lips collide, Casey sees PJ's number, one that can only be seen as a cruel twist of fate.
As her heart yearns for more, Casey already knows how this will end. After all, the numbers can't be changed...can they? But as hope blossoms alongside an attraction that's far more than physical, PJ refuses to live a life ruled by fear.
Now Casey must decide. Will she continue counting the days of her life, or start living a life that counts?
From the winner of the RONE 2018 Best Young Adult novel, Make it Count is a romance that will leave you swooning and smiling. Don't miss out on what reviewers have called 'one of the best books I've read this year'!
Seventeen-year-old Casey will do anything to avoid human touch, including faking a phobia. But when maple-eyed PJ rides his motorcycle into her life, she knows she's in trouble. He's hot, persistent and impossible to resist. When the inevitable happens; when hands, bodies, and lips collide, Casey sees PJ's number, one that can only be seen as a cruel twist of fate.
As her heart yearns for more, Casey already knows how this will end. After all, the numbers can't be changed...can they? But as hope blossoms alongside an attraction that's far more than physical, PJ refuses to live a life ruled by fear.
Now Casey must decide. Will she continue counting the days of her life, or start living a life that counts?
From the winner of the RONE 2018 Best Young Adult novel, Make it Count is a romance that will leave you swooning and smiling. Don't miss out on what reviewers have called 'one of the best books I've read this year'!
356 pages, Paperback
First published October 10, 2017
71 people are currently reading
908 people want to read
About the author
Tamar Sloan
141 books431 followersTamar really struggled writing this bio, in part because it’s in third person, but mostly because she hasn’t decided whether she’s primarily a psychologist who loves writing, or a writer with a lifelong fascination with psychology.
She must have been someone pretty awesome in a previous life (past life regression indicated a Care Bear), because she gets to do both. Beginning her career as a youth worker, then a secondary school teacher, before becoming a school psychologist, Tamar helps children and teens to live and thrive despite life’s hurdles like loss, relationship difficulties, mental health issues, and trauma.
As lover of reading, inspired by books that sparked beautiful movies in her head, Tamar loves to write young adult romance. To be honest, it was probably inevitable that her knowledge and love of literature would translate into writing emotion driven stories of finding life and love beyond our comfort zones. You can find out more about Tamar’s books at www.tamarsloan.com
A lifetime consumer of knowledge, Tamar holds degrees in Applied Science, Education and Psychology. When not reading, writing or working with teens, Tamar can be found with her husband and two children enjoying country life on their small slice of the Australian bush.
The driving force for all of Tamar’s writing is sharing and connecting. In truth, connecting with others is why she writes. She loves to hear from readers and fellow writers. Find her on all the usual social media channels or her website.
She must have been someone pretty awesome in a previous life (past life regression indicated a Care Bear), because she gets to do both. Beginning her career as a youth worker, then a secondary school teacher, before becoming a school psychologist, Tamar helps children and teens to live and thrive despite life’s hurdles like loss, relationship difficulties, mental health issues, and trauma.
As lover of reading, inspired by books that sparked beautiful movies in her head, Tamar loves to write young adult romance. To be honest, it was probably inevitable that her knowledge and love of literature would translate into writing emotion driven stories of finding life and love beyond our comfort zones. You can find out more about Tamar’s books at www.tamarsloan.com
A lifetime consumer of knowledge, Tamar holds degrees in Applied Science, Education and Psychology. When not reading, writing or working with teens, Tamar can be found with her husband and two children enjoying country life on their small slice of the Australian bush.
The driving force for all of Tamar’s writing is sharing and connecting. In truth, connecting with others is why she writes. She loves to hear from readers and fellow writers. Find her on all the usual social media channels or her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 6, 2018
I fell in love with Tamar Sloan’s writing because her stories have the ability to take you from the everyday and transport you into a version of our world that’s familiar but where the impossible is possible, and Make it Count does this unbelievable well! I loved Casey’s pragmatic yet humorous voice, and relished the push and pull between her and persistent PJ as he slowly coaxes her out of her protective shell. And then the twist when Casey finally touches him! Highly recommended for fans of contemporary YA with a quirky or paranormal slant.
November 10, 2017
Actual Rating: 4.0
There's something very special about Casey - and it's why she never touches anyone. Whenever she does, a number flashes: the number of days that person has to live. Casey has no problem living in her own bubble, pretending she has a phobia. That is, until she meets PJ and the inevitable happens. The time he has is much too low, and for the first time, Casey is going to do anything she can to change it.
I was actually pleasantly surprised by this writing style! It did read like a young adult novel, but I found that I especially liked how the chapters were formatted - with numbers as titles and some interrupting chapters titled with hashtags that were pondering and thoughtful. It gave the book a really nice pace despite the short time frame of the story.
I also loved how we could follow the thought process of the main character, which really brought her internal conflicts to life. I enjoyed how Casey transformed into someone braver, more independent, and willing to take risks for the people she cared about, all while falling in love. I would want more development with the side characters though, such as the best friend - I really enjoyed her scenes and wanted more!
The plot was really exciting - I thought it was predictable at some points, but the author was still able to incorporate her own twists that made the story more original.
Overall, I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who is a fan of young adult novels. There's a hint of urban fantasy as well, so readers of that genre would probably also enjoy it!
There's something very special about Casey - and it's why she never touches anyone. Whenever she does, a number flashes: the number of days that person has to live. Casey has no problem living in her own bubble, pretending she has a phobia. That is, until she meets PJ and the inevitable happens. The time he has is much too low, and for the first time, Casey is going to do anything she can to change it.
I was actually pleasantly surprised by this writing style! It did read like a young adult novel, but I found that I especially liked how the chapters were formatted - with numbers as titles and some interrupting chapters titled with hashtags that were pondering and thoughtful. It gave the book a really nice pace despite the short time frame of the story.
I also loved how we could follow the thought process of the main character, which really brought her internal conflicts to life. I enjoyed how Casey transformed into someone braver, more independent, and willing to take risks for the people she cared about, all while falling in love. I would want more development with the side characters though, such as the best friend - I really enjoyed her scenes and wanted more!
The plot was really exciting - I thought it was predictable at some points, but the author was still able to incorporate her own twists that made the story more original.
Overall, I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who is a fan of young adult novels. There's a hint of urban fantasy as well, so readers of that genre would probably also enjoy it!
October 11, 2017
This is an awesome story! Tamar Sloan nails it! Excellently written. Her characters are well fleshed out. We get to know them little by little just enough to keep the angst going and your curiosity level high. The scenes are well described enough to visualize clearly. My heart went out to Casey for all she had to go through. You see, she knows when someone is supposed to die as soon as her skin touches their skin. Her remedy is to wear long sleeve shirts, gloves, and long pants even on the hottest days. It’s her phobia. When she meets PJ, she falls for him and he for her. Then he kisses her. She sees the number of days he has left to live. So few. She tries everything to get that number to change. We see her struggles and learn of her history, her reasoning, her choices. Can she make his number change? Can PJ influence his own number? Does he even want to? This is a well rewarding read which I highly recommend to all young adults and older.
January 2, 2018
From the first chapter I was hooked. Tamar’s writing spins the story very vividly, and Casey and PJ are such relatable characters! I fell in love with them, and there are heart wrenching and heart warming moments but the message of this book is an important one. Do yourself a favour and read this book!!!
December 28, 2017
Loved It..
OMG I was hooked from the beginning.. I found myself getting frustrated when Casey would start to give up and then cheer when she was back in the game.. And I gotta say that I fell in love with PJ right from the start, I loved his personality and his passion.. I know that anyone who reads this book will truly love it.
OMG I was hooked from the beginning.. I found myself getting frustrated when Casey would start to give up and then cheer when she was back in the game.. And I gotta say that I fell in love with PJ right from the start, I loved his personality and his passion.. I know that anyone who reads this book will truly love it.
October 4, 2017
Casey has a gift and has had it since she was a pre-schooler. When she touches someone, she sees the number of days that they have left to live. Trying to find a way around her younger sister's number yet having to watch her die in a freak accident when Casey was eleven has caused trauma for her whole family. She has become withdrawn, is homeschooled, and is very careful not to touch anyone outside of her family. Her younger brother, whose twin died, is withdrawn and still suffers from nightmares.
Everything changes when she meets a boy named PJ. She is immediately fascinated by him and he equally entranced with her. But starting anything would definitely break her rules. He is pretty persistent. But it isn't until Casey begins attending group therapy for phobias - at her mother's instigation, that she sees PJ again.
Things go pretty well for them. They meet on the beach in the late evenings and he doesn't say anything about the gloves she always wears. He even encourages her to take her younger brother to the mini motos track where he races. Being out among people is really hard for Casey but it is good for her younger brother Harry.
When the owners of the track threaten to close it, Casey gets involved in a fund-raising campaign to save it and PJ and the other older racers decided to do a demonstration to raise interest. Despite trying not to touch PJ, one day it accidentally happens and Casey learns that his number indicates he'll die during the demonstration. She doesn't see any choice but to try to convince him not to take part without telling him about her gift.
This was an engaging story with great characters. I would hate to have Casey's gift and admired her strategies to cope with it and her courage when she had to abandon those strategies. PJ was also a wonderful character who had so much potential that he felt he couldn't realize. I liked Casey's best friend Em who is the only one outside her family who knows about her gift and Ari, the therapist who was helping the kids overcome their phobias while battling one of her own.
The writing was smooth and lyrical without being flowery. I loved the dialog and the love that was visible in Casey's family.
Everything changes when she meets a boy named PJ. She is immediately fascinated by him and he equally entranced with her. But starting anything would definitely break her rules. He is pretty persistent. But it isn't until Casey begins attending group therapy for phobias - at her mother's instigation, that she sees PJ again.
Things go pretty well for them. They meet on the beach in the late evenings and he doesn't say anything about the gloves she always wears. He even encourages her to take her younger brother to the mini motos track where he races. Being out among people is really hard for Casey but it is good for her younger brother Harry.
When the owners of the track threaten to close it, Casey gets involved in a fund-raising campaign to save it and PJ and the other older racers decided to do a demonstration to raise interest. Despite trying not to touch PJ, one day it accidentally happens and Casey learns that his number indicates he'll die during the demonstration. She doesn't see any choice but to try to convince him not to take part without telling him about her gift.
This was an engaging story with great characters. I would hate to have Casey's gift and admired her strategies to cope with it and her courage when she had to abandon those strategies. PJ was also a wonderful character who had so much potential that he felt he couldn't realize. I liked Casey's best friend Em who is the only one outside her family who knows about her gift and Ari, the therapist who was helping the kids overcome their phobias while battling one of her own.
The writing was smooth and lyrical without being flowery. I loved the dialog and the love that was visible in Casey's family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2018
God, I absolutely loved this book!
It has got to be one of my favorites! The message of the story was so beautiful! It made me re-examine my own life and want to make it count!
Definitely read this book! It will change your life!
It has got to be one of my favorites! The message of the story was so beautiful! It made me re-examine my own life and want to make it count!
Definitely read this book! It will change your life!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2018
The story:
Casey Morgan has a unique gift, though many (including her) would view it as more of a curse: all she has to do is touch someone’s skin, and she automatically knows how many days that person has left to live. Out of fear and dread, she has withdrawn from all but her family and her best friend Em, wearing gloves whenever on the rare occasions she ventures out in public. Only Em knows her secret, which is too distressing for her to even relate to her family.
A chance encounter with dreamy hunk PJ throws her whole life into chaos. Despite her every instinct to stay away, to not get involved, her attraction is just too strong. And when she touches him, she makes the most horrifying discovery imaginable: her new love interest has only weeks to live.
The age-old question: can one cheat death? Can Casey find a way to save the man who has stolen her heart, or are the steps she takes to prevent the tragedy exactly what causes it in the first place?
Read the rest of the review on YABC:
http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
Casey Morgan has a unique gift, though many (including her) would view it as more of a curse: all she has to do is touch someone’s skin, and she automatically knows how many days that person has left to live. Out of fear and dread, she has withdrawn from all but her family and her best friend Em, wearing gloves whenever on the rare occasions she ventures out in public. Only Em knows her secret, which is too distressing for her to even relate to her family.
A chance encounter with dreamy hunk PJ throws her whole life into chaos. Despite her every instinct to stay away, to not get involved, her attraction is just too strong. And when she touches him, she makes the most horrifying discovery imaginable: her new love interest has only weeks to live.
The age-old question: can one cheat death? Can Casey find a way to save the man who has stolen her heart, or are the steps she takes to prevent the tragedy exactly what causes it in the first place?
Read the rest of the review on YABC:
http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
November 15, 2019
Language: R (30 swears, 1 "f"); Mature Content: PG13 (sex); Violence: PG
Casey has a unique perspective and a quirky personality that manifests in her stream of consciousness narration. I enjoyed reading her thoughts so much that I almost didn't need her to have a story line, just listening to her thoughts as if we were having a conversation would have been entertaining. That being the case is a definite pro because the story being told was a little predictable. I can't decide if I'm happy with the ending or not. It's satisfying, but I wonder if Sloan simply took the easy way out -- what if Casey actually needed a different ending? Overall, I found this story to be a fun read and worth the time of turning the pages.
Casey has a unique perspective and a quirky personality that manifests in her stream of consciousness narration. I enjoyed reading her thoughts so much that I almost didn't need her to have a story line, just listening to her thoughts as if we were having a conversation would have been entertaining. That being the case is a definite pro because the story being told was a little predictable. I can't decide if I'm happy with the ending or not. It's satisfying, but I wonder if Sloan simply took the easy way out -- what if Casey actually needed a different ending? Overall, I found this story to be a fun read and worth the time of turning the pages.
March 29, 2022
Not sure if it’s the way the audio narrator goes about it but it is so…painfully…slow…in….its….delivery. Not sure if the book reads better but everything is just "he looked left, he looked right. I failed to notice his awesome bike, so I wondered what kind of brand it is. He gave me a side smirk. I blushed." Stuff like that like we are reading someone's diary and not a book meant for a wider public.
The main h is incredibly self-aware and the concept is terribly interesting and shows potential. The author doesn't go a bad way about establishing it per se but it just lacks a little urgency, vivacity, some editing to snap the readers' attention and focus better. As it stands it's like I am trudging through someone's day-to-day happenings with some remembering interspersed and not like I am being told a story or led on a journey.
For now, it's 2 stars, and I hope it picks up a bit more cuz I am starting to eye-roll way too much when the main h thinks or points out some basic thing the H did that the readers are supposed to drop their jaws over.
Yeah, this thing does not pick up any speed or interest at all. It just takes an interesting concept and kills it very…..very…...very…...very…….very…..slowly. I mean the snail's pace of realization that comes to these characters, the slow pace of the narrator, the deadly slow pace of the whole story…. It just all compiled together to make a very dull deliverance on something that could have been great.
The h is 17-18 not sure, not quite made clear from the get-go and she acts like an emotionally stunted 13-year-old. What with being a genius that graduated school early and having secluded herself from social interaction one can see why, but being in her head and coming to these slow, slow, slow realizations as she has zero insight and massive amounts of self-doubt and issues it was all dragging on the overall story.
Case in point h thinks: "This teenage boy who has an interest in me wants to race other boys in this dangerous go-cart? race. Why would he do this dangerous thing? Does he not realize how dangerous this is? Why is he acting like this?" She goes on for a while like this every time the H or other characters do something characteristic of their boyhood or age and it just made me want to shake and shout at her: 'IT'S CUZ HE IS A BOY YOU TEENAGE NIGHTMARE! HE IS IN THE PRESENCE OF THE GIRL IN WHO HE HAS EXPRESSED INTEREST IN AND HE WANTS TO SHOW OFF FOR YOUR DUMB ASS, GOD HELP HIS CLUELESS LITTLE HORMONAL HEART!' Jeez, I could not with this character. This infinite inner contemplation on the most basic of actions and the molasses way she processes all these actions that happen like this guy looked at her and this person blinked it made me feel like my short life was being further shortened by all of this.
So in the end to save myself from the aggravation of this tween nightmare I skipped to the end to see just what happens in the end and meh. I had no interest in these characters. I want to give credit to the author as I think this is their first work? Not sure. Not enough interest to investigate. But yeah… she should have invested in some beta-readers or found an editor to give this story a little bit of snappiness and thus breathe some life into it. Also if this is narrated by the author - again not invested enough to research this, god bless your heart for trying but NEVER DO THAT AGAIN. And if it's narrated by a professional audiobook narrator all I can say is - yikes!
So pass for me on this author and narrator as well.
The main h is incredibly self-aware and the concept is terribly interesting and shows potential. The author doesn't go a bad way about establishing it per se but it just lacks a little urgency, vivacity, some editing to snap the readers' attention and focus better. As it stands it's like I am trudging through someone's day-to-day happenings with some remembering interspersed and not like I am being told a story or led on a journey.
For now, it's 2 stars, and I hope it picks up a bit more cuz I am starting to eye-roll way too much when the main h thinks or points out some basic thing the H did that the readers are supposed to drop their jaws over.
Yeah, this thing does not pick up any speed or interest at all. It just takes an interesting concept and kills it very…..very…...very…...very…….very…..slowly. I mean the snail's pace of realization that comes to these characters, the slow pace of the narrator, the deadly slow pace of the whole story…. It just all compiled together to make a very dull deliverance on something that could have been great.
The h is 17-18 not sure, not quite made clear from the get-go and she acts like an emotionally stunted 13-year-old. What with being a genius that graduated school early and having secluded herself from social interaction one can see why, but being in her head and coming to these slow, slow, slow realizations as she has zero insight and massive amounts of self-doubt and issues it was all dragging on the overall story.
Case in point h thinks: "This teenage boy who has an interest in me wants to race other boys in this dangerous go-cart? race. Why would he do this dangerous thing? Does he not realize how dangerous this is? Why is he acting like this?" She goes on for a while like this every time the H or other characters do something characteristic of their boyhood or age and it just made me want to shake and shout at her: 'IT'S CUZ HE IS A BOY YOU TEENAGE NIGHTMARE! HE IS IN THE PRESENCE OF THE GIRL IN WHO HE HAS EXPRESSED INTEREST IN AND HE WANTS TO SHOW OFF FOR YOUR DUMB ASS, GOD HELP HIS CLUELESS LITTLE HORMONAL HEART!' Jeez, I could not with this character. This infinite inner contemplation on the most basic of actions and the molasses way she processes all these actions that happen like this guy looked at her and this person blinked it made me feel like my short life was being further shortened by all of this.
So in the end to save myself from the aggravation of this tween nightmare I skipped to the end to see just what happens in the end and meh. I had no interest in these characters. I want to give credit to the author as I think this is their first work? Not sure. Not enough interest to investigate. But yeah… she should have invested in some beta-readers or found an editor to give this story a little bit of snappiness and thus breathe some life into it. Also if this is narrated by the author - again not invested enough to research this, god bless your heart for trying but NEVER DO THAT AGAIN. And if it's narrated by a professional audiobook narrator all I can say is - yikes!
So pass for me on this author and narrator as well.
October 11, 2017
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I loved the idea of this book because of the originality. I loved the numbers, I don't think I've read anything like it.
Casey lives in her own little world with just her family and one close friend. She doesn't like coming in contact with people, not because she doesn't like people but because she can see the number of days they have left to live. I was really surprised with Casey being an introvert, she really didn't have the personality of an introvert.
I didn't really like P.J. as a character in the beginning, he seemed like such a player for sweet Casey. At the end I was rooting for him ans Casey! I loved how he was with the children and his sister. I loved how the ending connected. Did I mention I love this story! It's a worthwhile read and I can't wait to read more from this author.
Book Blurb:
He’s irresistible…but she’s the one person who knows his days are numbered
Casey’s touch can reveal the one thing a person would never want to know — the number of days they have left to live.
By the time Casey turns seventeen she’s learnt to withdraw. But the phobia she fakes in order to avoid human contact is sorely tested by hot, persistent, motorcycle riding PJ. For a girl who craves contact, maple eyed PJ is impossible to resist. When the inevitable happens, when hands, bodies and lips collide, Casey sees PJ's number, one that can only be seen as a cruel twist of fate.
Now she must decide. Will she continue counting the days of her life, or start living a life that counts?
With the memorable writing and humor of writers such as Jandy Nelson’s I’ll Give You the Sun blended with the attitude, chemistry and unexpected plot twists of Katie McGarry’s best sellers, Make it Count is a romance that will leave you swooning and smiling.
Publisher: Clean Reads Publishing
ISBN
Publication Date: 10 October, 2017
Length: pages
Happily Ever After: Sure does!
Heat Level: Sweet/Clean
Make it Count recently won the Romance Writers of Australia (RWA) 2017 First Kiss Competition and placed second in the RWA 2017 Ripping Start Competition. My debut young adult paranormal romance, Prophecy Awakened, won Readers Favourite 2017 Honourable Mention, RWA 2015 First Kiss competition and finalised in the Heart of Denver 2015 Molly competition.
Learn More about the Author!
My website is www.tamarsloan.com. You can also find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/tamarsloanwriter and Twitter www.twitter.com/sloantamar.
Casey lives in her own little world with just her family and one close friend. She doesn't like coming in contact with people, not because she doesn't like people but because she can see the number of days they have left to live. I was really surprised with Casey being an introvert, she really didn't have the personality of an introvert.
I didn't really like P.J. as a character in the beginning, he seemed like such a player for sweet Casey. At the end I was rooting for him ans Casey! I loved how he was with the children and his sister. I loved how the ending connected. Did I mention I love this story! It's a worthwhile read and I can't wait to read more from this author.
Book Blurb:
He’s irresistible…but she’s the one person who knows his days are numbered
Casey’s touch can reveal the one thing a person would never want to know — the number of days they have left to live.
By the time Casey turns seventeen she’s learnt to withdraw. But the phobia she fakes in order to avoid human contact is sorely tested by hot, persistent, motorcycle riding PJ. For a girl who craves contact, maple eyed PJ is impossible to resist. When the inevitable happens, when hands, bodies and lips collide, Casey sees PJ's number, one that can only be seen as a cruel twist of fate.
Now she must decide. Will she continue counting the days of her life, or start living a life that counts?
With the memorable writing and humor of writers such as Jandy Nelson’s I’ll Give You the Sun blended with the attitude, chemistry and unexpected plot twists of Katie McGarry’s best sellers, Make it Count is a romance that will leave you swooning and smiling.
Publisher: Clean Reads Publishing
ISBN
Publication Date: 10 October, 2017
Length: pages
Happily Ever After: Sure does!
Heat Level: Sweet/Clean
Make it Count recently won the Romance Writers of Australia (RWA) 2017 First Kiss Competition and placed second in the RWA 2017 Ripping Start Competition. My debut young adult paranormal romance, Prophecy Awakened, won Readers Favourite 2017 Honourable Mention, RWA 2015 First Kiss competition and finalised in the Heart of Denver 2015 Molly competition.
Learn More about the Author!
My website is www.tamarsloan.com. You can also find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/tamarsloanwriter and Twitter www.twitter.com/sloantamar.
October 15, 2017
I was instantly drawn in by the cover and then by the summary. The cover is stunning and the summary is certainly intriguing.
Casey has always had this little gift of being able to see how many days left someone has before they die. It is for sure a curse in my opinion. There is no positive about it. Sure, she can try and save someone, but it is not guaranteed. She tried once and it failed horribly.
After a horrible event that she tried her hardest to avoid, she is now a hermit. She has developed a phobia and stays at home. You can't really blame her. I wouldn't want to go out anywhere that could touch people. Her parents finally decide that enough is enough and they are done enabling her because they want her to enjoy her life and have a future outside of being in their house. They take her to a therapy group for fellow kids with phobias. During all this, she meets PJ the hunky motorcyclist.
Things happen and they become an item, but the stinky part is that is days are seriously numbered and Casey has to decide if she should just accept that he will die soon or do something about it.
I really feel bad for Casey. That is NOT a power I would want. I couldn't stand knowing someone I love or even a strange I brushed against on the street is going to die in 2,000 days or 2 days. It would all be too much. I honestly would become a hermit and never go outside.
There was some comedy here and there that helped lighten the story, so it wasn't all doom and gloom. I'm glad for some happy moments.
The writing style was done well. It didn't feel like a YA all the time. There were some very YA moments that were over-the-top, but a ya is still a ya in the end and those moments were bearable since the rest of the book was done well.
The ending was okay. There some plot holes left open and I feel like there needed to be more of an explanation of a certain event.
The romance between Casey and PJ was done well. It wasn't insta-love and it wasn't cheesy like some YA romances can be. It was a sweet romance.
In the end, this was pretty good. Casey and her power were interesting and I connected with her especially with her dislike of cheese. I dislike cold cheese. I don't mind melted cheese, but I used to be like her and HATE all cheeses. But, yes, the story was interesting for sure. Some overly YA spots and there were some things I am still scratching my head about, but I enjoyed this story. I'll give this 4 stars.
Casey has always had this little gift of being able to see how many days left someone has before they die. It is for sure a curse in my opinion. There is no positive about it. Sure, she can try and save someone, but it is not guaranteed. She tried once and it failed horribly.
After a horrible event that she tried her hardest to avoid, she is now a hermit. She has developed a phobia and stays at home. You can't really blame her. I wouldn't want to go out anywhere that could touch people. Her parents finally decide that enough is enough and they are done enabling her because they want her to enjoy her life and have a future outside of being in their house. They take her to a therapy group for fellow kids with phobias. During all this, she meets PJ the hunky motorcyclist.
Things happen and they become an item, but the stinky part is that is days are seriously numbered and Casey has to decide if she should just accept that he will die soon or do something about it.
I really feel bad for Casey. That is NOT a power I would want. I couldn't stand knowing someone I love or even a strange I brushed against on the street is going to die in 2,000 days or 2 days. It would all be too much. I honestly would become a hermit and never go outside.
There was some comedy here and there that helped lighten the story, so it wasn't all doom and gloom. I'm glad for some happy moments.
The writing style was done well. It didn't feel like a YA all the time. There were some very YA moments that were over-the-top, but a ya is still a ya in the end and those moments were bearable since the rest of the book was done well.
The ending was okay. There some plot holes left open and I feel like there needed to be more of an explanation of a certain event.
The romance between Casey and PJ was done well. It wasn't insta-love and it wasn't cheesy like some YA romances can be. It was a sweet romance.
In the end, this was pretty good. Casey and her power were interesting and I connected with her especially with her dislike of cheese. I dislike cold cheese. I don't mind melted cheese, but I used to be like her and HATE all cheeses. But, yes, the story was interesting for sure. Some overly YA spots and there were some things I am still scratching my head about, but I enjoyed this story. I'll give this 4 stars.
November 20, 2017
When I was approached by the author to review Make It Count, it didn't take me long to say yes. The whole concept of being able to see someone day of death really fascinated me, and I had to know how this was portrayed within the pages.
Casey, the protagonist, hates touching people, hates knowing how long some has left to live. She manages to avoid contact with home schooling, and passing this 'gift' off as a phobia of germs. But her thoughts soon start to change with the arrival of PJ, someone whos day of death is imminent, but also who Casey is attracted to. She soon finds herself torn between following her heart and making each day count, or following her brain and cutting all ties.
Casey was a character who I instantly loved, she has curves and isn't afraid to let the reader know, which was a very refreshing change. I love her random thoughts, snarky comments, and her pranks on her brothers.
Make It Count was a book that drew me in, not only with the plot but also the characters. After reading how much Casey struggled with this 'gift' and how when she tries to save someone it failed, it made it clear to see that what Casey can do isn't necessary a good thing, and seeing how much she draws into herself was sad. Imagine having to take moonlit walks on the beach to avoid other people, and not just as a romantic stroll, having to have PPE every day with Sunday your time to wear whatever you feel like.
PJ was someone who I wasn't sure about, just because he comes across as too over confident and sure of himself. But he did start to grow on me as the book progressed, especially how he helps Casey's brother get into kiddy motocross, and wants to try to raise funds to keep it open for little ones. Seeing him as their teacher really shows him in a completely different light.
The ending of Make It Count was not something I expecting, from the connection to the almost final scene. But I did like how it was all explained and how the dots connect and explain reactions earlier on within the pages.
Final Verdict
I really enjoyed Make It Count, and after a bit of author website stalking I am super happy to see another book in the works for publication next year.
Casey, the protagonist, hates touching people, hates knowing how long some has left to live. She manages to avoid contact with home schooling, and passing this 'gift' off as a phobia of germs. But her thoughts soon start to change with the arrival of PJ, someone whos day of death is imminent, but also who Casey is attracted to. She soon finds herself torn between following her heart and making each day count, or following her brain and cutting all ties.
Casey was a character who I instantly loved, she has curves and isn't afraid to let the reader know, which was a very refreshing change. I love her random thoughts, snarky comments, and her pranks on her brothers.
Anyone who thinks the wind in your hair is romantic didn't eat all their crusts and end up with my mop of curls.
Make It Count was a book that drew me in, not only with the plot but also the characters. After reading how much Casey struggled with this 'gift' and how when she tries to save someone it failed, it made it clear to see that what Casey can do isn't necessary a good thing, and seeing how much she draws into herself was sad. Imagine having to take moonlit walks on the beach to avoid other people, and not just as a romantic stroll, having to have PPE every day with Sunday your time to wear whatever you feel like.
PJ was someone who I wasn't sure about, just because he comes across as too over confident and sure of himself. But he did start to grow on me as the book progressed, especially how he helps Casey's brother get into kiddy motocross, and wants to try to raise funds to keep it open for little ones. Seeing him as their teacher really shows him in a completely different light.
The ending of Make It Count was not something I expecting, from the connection to the almost final scene. But I did like how it was all explained and how the dots connect and explain reactions earlier on within the pages.
Final Verdict
I really enjoyed Make It Count, and after a bit of author website stalking I am super happy to see another book in the works for publication next year.
November 5, 2017
Mind=Blown!
Truly, I think this is one of the most crazy, funny, interesting books I have read in a very long time. Tamar Sloan has written a book that makes you think, while also making you laugh and cry. There were literally moments while reading where I yelled at the book, and towards the end, I actually physically closed my eyes, not wanting to see what would happen next. Of course, I needed to know the ending, and I had to open them to keep on reading, to remind myself this was not a movie. This is one of those books where I will literally just shove a copy into someone's hands and say "Read this!" no matter who they are. It's that good.
30,658. 12,042. 19,708. 21.
These are the numbers Casey Morgan sees in her mind when she touches someone with her bare skin. They do not change and they do not lie. These are the days left in a person's life. Harry, Dad, Mom...PJ Sullivan. Homeschooled since she was young, unable to cope with regular schooling due to her curse, she has few friends and rarely leaves the house. But that all changes one day when she opens the door and runs right into the hottest hunk of man she has ever seen. PJ Sullivan is older, rides motorcycles, and makes her feel things she has never felt before. One day she gives in and kisses him, and his number shocks her. Now it's a race against time to love him as much as possible. And save him, if she can.
The whole concept of Casey's curse is fascinating to me, and I love that Tamar Sloan shows the readers what Casey does with it at the end of the book. It really teaches a valuable lesson in accepting who you are and realizing you have a role in the world. Casey's inner monologue was hysterical, and I loved her relationships with her family and her friend. Though she tried to fight her feelings for PJ, knowing it could never be more, she found that her heart was much stronger than her brain. Feelings won over logic, and it just goes to show that sometimes following your heart is the right way to go. PJ was perhaps one of my favorite heroes in a romance book. One, because he took things slow and respected the fact that Casey was new at relationships, and Two, because he was a genuinely good guy who loved kids and wanted to make their lives better. If more guys were like PJ, I would probably be unable to resist them too. I understand Casey's plight.
This is the first book I have read by Tamar, but it most certainly will not be the last. Amazing book by an amazing writer. I expect great things out of this author!
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
Truly, I think this is one of the most crazy, funny, interesting books I have read in a very long time. Tamar Sloan has written a book that makes you think, while also making you laugh and cry. There were literally moments while reading where I yelled at the book, and towards the end, I actually physically closed my eyes, not wanting to see what would happen next. Of course, I needed to know the ending, and I had to open them to keep on reading, to remind myself this was not a movie. This is one of those books where I will literally just shove a copy into someone's hands and say "Read this!" no matter who they are. It's that good.
30,658. 12,042. 19,708. 21.
These are the numbers Casey Morgan sees in her mind when she touches someone with her bare skin. They do not change and they do not lie. These are the days left in a person's life. Harry, Dad, Mom...PJ Sullivan. Homeschooled since she was young, unable to cope with regular schooling due to her curse, she has few friends and rarely leaves the house. But that all changes one day when she opens the door and runs right into the hottest hunk of man she has ever seen. PJ Sullivan is older, rides motorcycles, and makes her feel things she has never felt before. One day she gives in and kisses him, and his number shocks her. Now it's a race against time to love him as much as possible. And save him, if she can.
The whole concept of Casey's curse is fascinating to me, and I love that Tamar Sloan shows the readers what Casey does with it at the end of the book. It really teaches a valuable lesson in accepting who you are and realizing you have a role in the world. Casey's inner monologue was hysterical, and I loved her relationships with her family and her friend. Though she tried to fight her feelings for PJ, knowing it could never be more, she found that her heart was much stronger than her brain. Feelings won over logic, and it just goes to show that sometimes following your heart is the right way to go. PJ was perhaps one of my favorite heroes in a romance book. One, because he took things slow and respected the fact that Casey was new at relationships, and Two, because he was a genuinely good guy who loved kids and wanted to make their lives better. If more guys were like PJ, I would probably be unable to resist them too. I understand Casey's plight.
This is the first book I have read by Tamar, but it most certainly will not be the last. Amazing book by an amazing writer. I expect great things out of this author!
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
November 29, 2017
This year I've really embraced a new genre. I've always shied away from paranormals or books with even paranormal elements mostly because I believed them to be unbelievable and not really worth my time... Why? When there is no way this could ever be real. Let's just say, I've learned a lot from the paranormal genre especially with reading 5 or more this year.
"Touch is so fundamental to human life, but so is death. And the two were inescapably linked for me."
Make it Count is a young adult romance with paranormal elements. Casey is a teenage girl living in Australia with the ability to see a person's number of days left on this earth with just a touch. An ability that has caged her and sworn off the touch of people other than her family. But when she meets PJ, she learns what the numbers really mean and what life is really about. Watching PJ learn his self-worth and watching Casey live a life worth living was so inspiring. This book definitely showed the bigger picture. True to YA, a lesson always lurks just below the surface and this one screams YOLO!
"Do our choices change our trajectories? Or did destiny set the ball in motion a gazillion years ago, with the the infinite outcomes carefully plotted out, the intersections and journeys predetermined as we cling to the illusion we have some sort of control."
The writing is definitely good, but it has a different feel to it and some different slang and terminology as the setting is in Australia, but nothing that really took from the story. I do wish there would have been some more communication between Casey and PJ even if it was just them getting to know each other. But the touch was so heavily relied on for their relationship. Some of the transitions were a little weak where I had to go back and make sure I didn't skip a sentence, but overall, a very enjoyable read. I look forward to more from Tamar.
"Touch is so fundamental to human life, but so is death. And the two were inescapably linked for me."
Make it Count is a young adult romance with paranormal elements. Casey is a teenage girl living in Australia with the ability to see a person's number of days left on this earth with just a touch. An ability that has caged her and sworn off the touch of people other than her family. But when she meets PJ, she learns what the numbers really mean and what life is really about. Watching PJ learn his self-worth and watching Casey live a life worth living was so inspiring. This book definitely showed the bigger picture. True to YA, a lesson always lurks just below the surface and this one screams YOLO!
"Do our choices change our trajectories? Or did destiny set the ball in motion a gazillion years ago, with the the infinite outcomes carefully plotted out, the intersections and journeys predetermined as we cling to the illusion we have some sort of control."
The writing is definitely good, but it has a different feel to it and some different slang and terminology as the setting is in Australia, but nothing that really took from the story. I do wish there would have been some more communication between Casey and PJ even if it was just them getting to know each other. But the touch was so heavily relied on for their relationship. Some of the transitions were a little weak where I had to go back and make sure I didn't skip a sentence, but overall, a very enjoyable read. I look forward to more from Tamar.
October 13, 2025
Make It Count (Love Wins Book 2)
Make It Count (Love Wins Book 2) ~ A small choice, a big ripple—sweet, smart, and surprisingly deep
One touch. That’s the hook—and Sloan actually delivers on it. Casey isn’t the broody YA cardboard cutout; he’s carrying real weight from a mistake that keeps echoing. One brush with Evie (yep, the grounded, good-girl with a spine) and we’re off into a “what if” that’s less magic trick and more gut check. I liked how the “seeing tomorrow” angle never turns into Marvel-level chaos; it stays intimate—choices, consequences, and the math of regret.
Highlights: the chemistry is slow-burn, the banter lands, and the moral stakes feel like something you’d actually talk about with your students after class. There’s a late-book reveal about Casey’s past that reframes his self-sabotage (semi-spoiler: the accident isn’t what he’s really guilty about), and Evie’s decision in the third act is earned, not plot-armored.
Could’ve used one extra chapter with Evie’s mom—that thread gets tied a little too neat—but the final scene sticks the landing: hopeful, not saccharine. If you like YA romance that respects your brain and your heart, this one counts—pun intended. And yes, the last page nudges you to ask: what would you change if you knew?
Make It Count (Love Wins Book 2) ~ A small choice, a big ripple—sweet, smart, and surprisingly deep
One touch. That’s the hook—and Sloan actually delivers on it. Casey isn’t the broody YA cardboard cutout; he’s carrying real weight from a mistake that keeps echoing. One brush with Evie (yep, the grounded, good-girl with a spine) and we’re off into a “what if” that’s less magic trick and more gut check. I liked how the “seeing tomorrow” angle never turns into Marvel-level chaos; it stays intimate—choices, consequences, and the math of regret.
Highlights: the chemistry is slow-burn, the banter lands, and the moral stakes feel like something you’d actually talk about with your students after class. There’s a late-book reveal about Casey’s past that reframes his self-sabotage (semi-spoiler: the accident isn’t what he’s really guilty about), and Evie’s decision in the third act is earned, not plot-armored.
Could’ve used one extra chapter with Evie’s mom—that thread gets tied a little too neat—but the final scene sticks the landing: hopeful, not saccharine. If you like YA romance that respects your brain and your heart, this one counts—pun intended. And yes, the last page nudges you to ask: what would you change if you knew?
February 6, 2019
A Review of Make It Count by Tamar Sloan
Casey and PJ - 5 Stars
What a wonderful author I have found. I ABSOLUTELY loved this book and the characters of the 17 year old Casey and the slightly older PJ (still a teen). Casey's insight into the numbers for every person she touches has lead her to become a recluse and with all the tragedy this family has been through, it is little wonder that she shies away from everyone. There are twists that you don't see coming and there will be tears shed. The chemistry between PJ and Casey is touching and you can't help but root for them and hope there is a way that things can be changed. Definitely one of those books that I will keep and re-read multiple times, just for the pure love.
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**Honest review voluntarily provided from a Complimentary Copy**
Casey and PJ - 5 Stars
What a wonderful author I have found. I ABSOLUTELY loved this book and the characters of the 17 year old Casey and the slightly older PJ (still a teen). Casey's insight into the numbers for every person she touches has lead her to become a recluse and with all the tragedy this family has been through, it is little wonder that she shies away from everyone. There are twists that you don't see coming and there will be tears shed. The chemistry between PJ and Casey is touching and you can't help but root for them and hope there is a way that things can be changed. Definitely one of those books that I will keep and re-read multiple times, just for the pure love.
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**Honest review voluntarily provided from a Complimentary Copy**
October 11, 2017
Oh my goodness. This book is so amazing, I love PJ and Casey. For a young couple meeting because one is in trouble and doing community service and the other seeing numbers for the length of people’s lives if she touches them seems like insurmountable odds. PJ having so few days and the time they spend together is such a sweet thing. Having a little brother Harry who has lived in a shell of himself for such a long time. The parents the friends and the families are such an interesting mix. This is such a wonderful read that you just have to read it. I was up late at night, not able to put this down and I am so glad I received this book. Tamar is one of my new favorite authors of all times.
I received this book as an arc and this is my honest review.
I received this book as an arc and this is my honest review.
January 18, 2018
5* Wow. This is a book I had started months ago and set aside after the first few pages. I'm really glad a picked it back up. Casey's gift/curse or as she and her friend, Em, call it, the "gurft" is just that. Casey struggles to find a way to cope with the gurft when she meets the boy of her dreams. The problem is that his number is twenty-one. Can she change it? Should she? As she gets closer to him she does everything she can to save him and shares her wisdom, insights, and lessons she learns along the way through her Blog (which is a really creative way to share what is going on in her head). I really loved how the author included a brief four year fast forward to how Casey is doing in the near future. If you like this book, I would also suggest "When" by Victoria Laurie.
September 17, 2018
Casey has learned to live with her gift/curse by withdrawing from life. A chance meeting with PJ changes everything. And not just for her. The chemistry between PJ and Casey just jumps off the page and is the catalyst for bringing her out of her self-imposed shell. Casey's journey to a more normal life will find you alternating between laughter and tears and all the emotions in between.
This book was a truly great story dealing with life, love, and death. The characters are well developed and easily identified with. The author does a great job when talking about death and phobias and helping you understand what issues people face. The story takes you on a journey that will surprise you in the end.
This book was a truly great story dealing with life, love, and death. The characters are well developed and easily identified with. The author does a great job when talking about death and phobias and helping you understand what issues people face. The story takes you on a journey that will surprise you in the end.
May 17, 2024
At 19 months, Casey drew a 5. Five days later, her grandmother died. Every time Casey touched anyone's skin, a number popped up in her head. After a while, Casey figured out it was the number of days a person had left to live so she became a homeschooled child. The numbers ruled her life until she met PJ (Peter Jackson was named for a pack of cigarettes, just like his two sisters, Horizon and Winfield). This story is heartbreaking and funny with romance tossed into the mix, ending in a HEA. Very highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 6, 2017
A lovely read
This was just beautiful both in story and style. The characters, though young had such a depth to them that it was hard to stop reading.
A sweet romance, the novel still had enough tension and fire to lend reality to young love. It also had a touch of the supernatural, a small touch, small enough to keep it believable but enough to lift the unfolding story into something heartfelt.
The pace was smooth, the writing flowing and the periphery characters delightful, and all these features combined to create a very enjoyable reading experience!
This was just beautiful both in story and style. The characters, though young had such a depth to them that it was hard to stop reading.
A sweet romance, the novel still had enough tension and fire to lend reality to young love. It also had a touch of the supernatural, a small touch, small enough to keep it believable but enough to lift the unfolding story into something heartfelt.
The pace was smooth, the writing flowing and the periphery characters delightful, and all these features combined to create a very enjoyable reading experience!
June 20, 2018
IS IT A GIFT, OR A CURSE? Casey's "gift" is very much a curse when she meets her love. She shows her maturity and wisdom in how she handles this situation. The story is elegantly written and has a very smooth pace that is accentuated by the narrator's smooth, slow voice (if you also have the audiobook version). The author weaves a story that takes you by the hand, but then takes you by the heart. I fell in love with Casey's personality and she describes each day so well that I felt like I was inside her mind. This is truly a beautiful story.
August 11, 2018
Fantastic Read
Make it count is an awe inspiring read from start to finish with a great and memorable set of vharqcters with some growing and evolving more then they ever expected and it also contains many life lessons that everyone should learn namely live life to your fullest and never stop living the future is always shifting changing what was may not be what is but dont focus on the what ifs focus on the here and now do what makes you happy in this rollercoaster we call life tamar Sloan well done
Make it count is an awe inspiring read from start to finish with a great and memorable set of vharqcters with some growing and evolving more then they ever expected and it also contains many life lessons that everyone should learn namely live life to your fullest and never stop living the future is always shifting changing what was may not be what is but dont focus on the what ifs focus on the here and now do what makes you happy in this rollercoaster we call life tamar Sloan well done
November 3, 2018
Great roller coaster read. I love it when a book moves me to laughter and throws in a tissue soaked situation as I try to ignor my husband's worried glances.
Casey has a unique gift that has her home bound. Everyone has situations that can make them uncomfortable but her gift is a roadblock that only PJ can help her through. As hormones bring about the changes that make the difference she is plunged in over her head. Death, love, grief all wrapped up in decent love story that I will definitely recommend to my nieces.
Casey has a unique gift that has her home bound. Everyone has situations that can make them uncomfortable but her gift is a roadblock that only PJ can help her through. As hormones bring about the changes that make the difference she is plunged in over her head. Death, love, grief all wrapped up in decent love story that I will definitely recommend to my nieces.
April 3, 2024
This was such a wonderful read where we meet Casey. A fantastic character who does not like to make contact with, well anyone. If she touches you then she sees a number and this reveals the number of days you have left to live. Keeping her distance from people is the only way to survive until one day hot and sexy PJ enters her life and then what should she do? It’s a sweet romance, touching, a little emotional and intriguing to say the least and the author weaves their spell and draws you in, hook, line and sinker.
March 2, 2018
This book had such a unique premise, I just had to read it. I was not expecting the romance to be such a delicious slow burn--literally delicious as the author uses yummy foods in her descriptions of the sexy male paramour. I myself write paranormal romance, and the romance in these pages actually taught me a thing or two. The tension building toward the end had me practically cursing at the author in my head, thinking "don't you do it, don't you dare do it!" But the ending did not disappoint.
May 30, 2018
I keep clicking on the stars, but it won't let me rate it any higher than five!
Casey doesn't like to touch people, because every time she does, she sees a number - the number of days they have left. After one life altering experience, she's determined to close herself off from people and their numbers forever.
Until one day a sexy-bedazzler walks into her life. He's bad news, no regard for death and it's inevitability. And she can't stop thinking about him. Like, rivals her food-obsession with his mouth-watering hotness.
Maybe one touch won't hurt. One brush of skin, one sleight of hand on muscled arms.
Then again, it could change everything.
Love, love, love this book! The romance is amazing (super steamy, but still manages to be clean), and the story had me nail-biting to the very end. Plus there's plenty of humor, and the food themed descriptions and Australian setting were the perfect backdrop to this summer romance.
Perfect for a beach read, I think fans of Nicholas Sparks and the Hallmark channel will love this story.
Casey doesn't like to touch people, because every time she does, she sees a number - the number of days they have left. After one life altering experience, she's determined to close herself off from people and their numbers forever.
Until one day a sexy-bedazzler walks into her life. He's bad news, no regard for death and it's inevitability. And she can't stop thinking about him. Like, rivals her food-obsession with his mouth-watering hotness.
Maybe one touch won't hurt. One brush of skin, one sleight of hand on muscled arms.
Then again, it could change everything.
Love, love, love this book! The romance is amazing (super steamy, but still manages to be clean), and the story had me nail-biting to the very end. Plus there's plenty of humor, and the food themed descriptions and Australian setting were the perfect backdrop to this summer romance.
Perfect for a beach read, I think fans of Nicholas Sparks and the Hallmark channel will love this story.
April 2, 2024
This was a wirlwind of emotions! I hoped, dispared, and sometimes I was angry on the fate!
I knew that must be a happy ending, but my heart skip a beat some many times till the end!
PJ has touched so many people, and was unfair for him to all end bad - especially becouse Casey and Harry get out of their grey zone only becouse of PJ.
Was a wonderul book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I knew that must be a happy ending, but my heart skip a beat some many times till the end!
PJ has touched so many people, and was unfair for him to all end bad - especially becouse Casey and Harry get out of their grey zone only becouse of PJ.
Was a wonderul book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 5, 2024
Book one of the Love Wins series. This was an awesome read! I laughed, I cried, my emotions were all out for this one! Kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end!!! Tamar Sloan knows how to keep you captivated from the first paragraph. I could totally see this book as a movie. Highly recommend reading this. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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