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Dear Molly #1
Seeking Jake Ryan
An eighties girl in a modern world.
Sloane would rather curl up with a John Hughes movie than walk the halls of Grover High. However, all of that is about to change because on the first day of school she runs into none other than Mr. Sixteen Candles himself, Jake Ryan.
Okay, he's not really Jake Ryan, but Gabe has the khakis, sports car and trademark charm to fit the role.
Sloane hopes to pull a Molly Ringwald and win him over with her quirky sense of humor and even quirkier fashion sense, but what she doesn't know is that she and her seemingly untouchable celebrity crush have a lot more in common than they think.
Seeking Jake Ryan is the first in a series of romantic comedies centering around everybody's favorite eighties movies.
Sloane would rather curl up with a John Hughes movie than walk the halls of Grover High. However, all of that is about to change because on the first day of school she runs into none other than Mr. Sixteen Candles himself, Jake Ryan.
Okay, he's not really Jake Ryan, but Gabe has the khakis, sports car and trademark charm to fit the role.
Sloane hopes to pull a Molly Ringwald and win him over with her quirky sense of humor and even quirkier fashion sense, but what she doesn't know is that she and her seemingly untouchable celebrity crush have a lot more in common than they think.
Seeking Jake Ryan is the first in a series of romantic comedies centering around everybody's favorite eighties movies.
204 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 3, 2020
224 people are currently reading
474 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
June 3, 2020
DNF
When I read the blurb I was so excited. Breakfast Club is one of my favorite 80's movie. I was expecting a hwole lot referal to the 80's movies and songs. I got what I wished for, however the chemistry between the characters... I do not get it. I can not feel the meet cute, innocent optimist banter between the characters.
The writing style is also confusing focusing a lot on inner dialog and detail of events. Sadly I have to shelved it under DNF
2 stars
When I read the blurb I was so excited. Breakfast Club is one of my favorite 80's movie. I was expecting a hwole lot referal to the 80's movies and songs. I got what I wished for, however the chemistry between the characters... I do not get it. I can not feel the meet cute, innocent optimist banter between the characters.
The writing style is also confusing focusing a lot on inner dialog and detail of events. Sadly I have to shelved it under DNF
2 stars
April 9, 2020
Take me back to the 80s!
I was a teen in the late 80s and just like most girls, had a thing for these John Hughes romances. Unless a reader is older (like me) or a huge 80s fan, I'm not sure if they'll get the references, but it's still a fun story and a great escape from what's going on in the world today.
The story opens with Sloane writing a letter to her teen idol, Molly Ringwald, but she seems to be a lot like Molly herself. With gorgeous red hair and an angsty, down-on-her-luck personality, a random first day of school meeting with the new high school heartthrob leaves her crushing on the one guy who is totally out of her reach. I love how dedicated Sloane is to her dreams, and especially love her intuitiveness when it comes to those around her and their thoughts and feelings.
Of course, Gabe is Jake Ryan reincarnated, right down to the last minute ending, but I wanted more build up with his character and the romantic chemistry. I expected more from Gabe and he fell a little flat for me, while still staying true to Jake Ryan, if that makes sense. I grew up and I expected Jake to grow up as well, and Gabe just wasn't as mature as I wanted him to be.
I loved how this story was modernized, while still pulling in the 80s allusions, throwing me back to a happy and simpler time of life. There's humor, swoon, teenage apprehension, growth, and more in this fun start to a new series, and I'll definitely be checking out the others as they release.
Content: mild romance (some innuendo, party scene, kissing)
I was a teen in the late 80s and just like most girls, had a thing for these John Hughes romances. Unless a reader is older (like me) or a huge 80s fan, I'm not sure if they'll get the references, but it's still a fun story and a great escape from what's going on in the world today.
The story opens with Sloane writing a letter to her teen idol, Molly Ringwald, but she seems to be a lot like Molly herself. With gorgeous red hair and an angsty, down-on-her-luck personality, a random first day of school meeting with the new high school heartthrob leaves her crushing on the one guy who is totally out of her reach. I love how dedicated Sloane is to her dreams, and especially love her intuitiveness when it comes to those around her and their thoughts and feelings.
Of course, Gabe is Jake Ryan reincarnated, right down to the last minute ending, but I wanted more build up with his character and the romantic chemistry. I expected more from Gabe and he fell a little flat for me, while still staying true to Jake Ryan, if that makes sense. I grew up and I expected Jake to grow up as well, and Gabe just wasn't as mature as I wanted him to be.
I loved how this story was modernized, while still pulling in the 80s allusions, throwing me back to a happy and simpler time of life. There's humor, swoon, teenage apprehension, growth, and more in this fun start to a new series, and I'll definitely be checking out the others as they release.
Content: mild romance (some innuendo, party scene, kissing)
October 4, 2020
Rating: 4.5/5.0
“Seeking Jake Ryan” is a fun, lighthearted book that has all of the elements of the great rom-coms of the 80’s it tries to emulate!
Read full review in the 2020 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“Seeking Jake Ryan” is a fun, lighthearted book that has all of the elements of the great rom-coms of the 80’s it tries to emulate!
Read full review in the 2020 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 29, 2020
I was in the mood for a cute “sweet” read and was really excited about the premise of this one. It wasn’t what I expected, and basically just fell flat for me. The hero didn’t want to be with the girlfriend from page one (maybe this was an ode to 16 candles, but I didn’t think this was supposed to be a retelling, I thought it was an original story). At 50% I gave up and skimmed because at that point there really was no saving this story. He was emotionally cheating on the girlfriend, had no backbone, and completely lacked depth. Overall just really disappointed in a good idea, that just couldn’t launch.
April 1, 2020
Very cute read with 80s references, which I love. Sloane and Gabe were perfect together. Their school project was a very interesting one and I wish I could have read more interviews. The two are not together for almost all of the book and I wish that we could have seen them together more romantically. I did enjoy reading their friend dates. Story was steady paced and realistic. Definitely looking forward to the next in this series.
March 3, 2020
I loved the 80s and everything about them. I grew up during those years and it’s still my favourite decade. Unfortunately, I can’t say the same about this book. It was okay but I didn’t love it. I think it’s more suited to a young teen audience, which is fine. Despite my age I really enjoy reading YA. I didn’t really connect well to this one though.
September 26, 2020
Take bits and pieces of well loved 80's teen movies, and you'll find them all together here, in a cute cupcake of a story.
December 4, 2021
Sloane is about to start her senior year and is excited as she can finally take Media Studies. For years, Sloane has wanted to take this class as she grew up on the good ol' movies especially those set in the 1980s and directed by John Hughes amongst others. Even her name comes from a character her parents loved in the movie Ferris Bueller's Day Off. One of Sloane's favorite movies is Sixteen Candles and this year she has finally met someone who for her resembles Jake Ryan. Since her mother died, Sloane decides to write to another redheaded icon - Molly Ringwald and all about her new upcoming year and more specifically meeting her Jake Ryan. Sloane's Jake Ryan is none other than Gabe. Gabe has just moved back from being abroad in Europe as his family is broke. Gabe's friends and family though are expecting pre-Europe Gabe but he has changed and now instead of wanting to date the popular cheerleader, he wants someone genuine and in Seeking Jake Ryan, that person is Sloane. Can Gabe prove to Sloane that he isn't a superficial jerk but someone who cares about her? I did love the ending of this book as of course in the 80s movie, the hero always does some great big gesture to show his love and in Seeking Jake Ryan we have a lovely Sixteen Candles ending.
I am now looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series and now they have also made me want to rewatch some 80s flicks.
I am now looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series and now they have also made me want to rewatch some 80s flicks.
April 12, 2021
I really loved this book. The characters are super sweet. The romance is super adorable and had great chemistry. I loved the characters and they were just awesome.
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.
March 4, 2020
This book is a fun story with an '80s twist. You can tell the authors really did their homework when it came to the '80s music and movie references. It's entertaining to read how Sloane compares her life to Molly Ringwald films. The fact her friends indulge her passion for all things '80s is great and really shows how supportive they are. However, it would've been nice if the characters learned from the flaws they saw in '80s movie characters instead of repeating those mistakes, like Gabe stringing along his girlfriend while falling for Sloane like Jake Ryan in Sixteen Candles. Seeking Jake Ryan is a fun, quick read for fans of '80s films and sweet teen romance.
March 31, 2020
4.5 stars
Cute and the 80s references are fun.
Cute and the 80s references are fun.
January 14, 2023
Cute. Jake Ryan’s jeans are not ill fitting though ;)
November 17, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. Being a big fan of Ferris Bueller and Sixteen Candles, I found this story a delight. Highly recommend it for those of us who remember the 80’s.
May 24, 2020
Cute
I love John Hughes and Jake Ryan. Very cute story. Anything centered around 80's movies and you can count me in!
I love John Hughes and Jake Ryan. Very cute story. Anything centered around 80's movies and you can count me in!
April 1, 2020
I found this to be really fun, with cute characters, over the top scenarios (as if a romcom movie plot) and the best interactions between all the characters. It was so easy to speed through this book, I ended up reading it in a day or so because the writing style was so approachable and the characters were likable and I rooted for a HEA. Even while the main characters grieve for dead parents, the tone of the book was light and I never felt weighed down by the apparent grief. I found myself laughing out loud during so many scenes and having too many favorite quotes to pick from. The banter was spot on and the the friend and family interactions were endearing. I also enjoyed how the author did not create a villain/mean girl (or boy) in the story, instead it was all about understanding and accepting.
Overall this was an adorable YA romantic comedy, full of heart, humor and cute relationships- as well as great references to the best 80s (the best decade for movies and music in my biased opinion) movies, clothes and music. I recommend this for anyone who loves all things Sixteen Candles and fans of Kassie West contemporaries. I am pretty sure there are going to be more books set in this world and I am completely for this idea (I really hope that Sloane's friends get to find their own movie style cute love stories!).
Overall this was an adorable YA romantic comedy, full of heart, humor and cute relationships- as well as great references to the best 80s (the best decade for movies and music in my biased opinion) movies, clothes and music. I recommend this for anyone who loves all things Sixteen Candles and fans of Kassie West contemporaries. I am pretty sure there are going to be more books set in this world and I am completely for this idea (I really hope that Sloane's friends get to find their own movie style cute love stories!).
March 7, 2020
This was a quick and cute YA with a bunch of 80’s references. I have read stories from these authors before and I have to say this wasn’t my favorite one. I got most of the references so it wasn’t really hard to read at least.
I did like most of the characters but this is another series of books that’s going to be about the three main girl characters that are now going to write to Molly. Didn’t really see the point of that yet but maybe something will come of it later on.
I wish that Gabe was able to stand up for himself a little sooner so him and Sloane could have been together more. I also wish they could have at least went to homecoming together and made that night a little better.
It was interesting to read about the other couple that gets together in this story though. It was really cute to see what Gabe ended up doing towards the end and I’m curious enough to want to find out who Landon ends up with.
I did like most of the characters but this is another series of books that’s going to be about the three main girl characters that are now going to write to Molly. Didn’t really see the point of that yet but maybe something will come of it later on.
I wish that Gabe was able to stand up for himself a little sooner so him and Sloane could have been together more. I also wish they could have at least went to homecoming together and made that night a little better.
It was interesting to read about the other couple that gets together in this story though. It was really cute to see what Gabe ended up doing towards the end and I’m curious enough to want to find out who Landon ends up with.
April 17, 2020
A Sweet Reminder Of Your Favorite Movie
I liked the characters and how they acted like decent human beings. It was a perfect way to pass a few hours during a stressful quarantine. I had initially been expecting more of a modern retelling of Sixteen Candles, but enjoyed this despite that. I liked that there were no real villains , just real people dealing with real problems and trying to do the best they can. I wasn't a big Harper fan, so I don't know if I'll pick up the next one. But if there is a Reagan one...
I liked the characters and how they acted like decent human beings. It was a perfect way to pass a few hours during a stressful quarantine. I had initially been expecting more of a modern retelling of Sixteen Candles, but enjoyed this despite that. I liked that there were no real villains , just real people dealing with real problems and trying to do the best they can. I wasn't a big Harper fan, so I don't know if I'll pick up the next one. But if there is a Reagan one...
March 10, 2020
I really give it 3.5 stars. Love the premise because I love my 80s movies and clearly so does the author. Liked the main female character Sloane, but I didn't quite find any of the other characters as endearing as my 80s movies. It was cute, but not something I fell as in love with as, for example, Jake Ryan when I was a teenager. Of course, maybe it's because I'm an adult now, but still, I wanted more from the book than was there. There were also some typos and spelling/grammar errors, as well as errors of definition (for example, calling other characters "prey" when clearly she meant "predators"--as in, she was the prey--resulting in a metaphor fail). But overall it was a quick, easy, and fun read. I will most likely read the next one (which references The Outsiders). I will also hold out for one that references The Breakfast Club.
March 7, 2020
As an avid YA reader who grew up with John Hughes movies and all things 80s - how could I not want to read "Seeking Jake Ryan"?! (Spoiler alert: I couldn't. Not want to read, that is.) I have no idea if "kids these days" ;) will get the references, but the book sure was fun to read for someone like me who has felt YA-ish for a couple of decades now. :D
I really liked Sloane, but Gabe... well. I kept wishing he'd get his act together a bit sooner. Still, it was an entertaining read, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I really liked Sloane, but Gabe... well. I kept wishing he'd get his act together a bit sooner. Still, it was an entertaining read, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 25, 2020
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I thought this book was really cute but I, unfortunately, didn't really connect with the main character Sloane and I thought the problems she had with her friends were contrived and unnecessary. She hung out with other people one time and her friends were completely insecure and over the top about it. The main male character was a coward and I don't really feel like he redeemed himself in the end. I love 80's movies but I really felt like this book fell a little flat and was trying too hard.
I thought this book was really cute but I, unfortunately, didn't really connect with the main character Sloane and I thought the problems she had with her friends were contrived and unnecessary. She hung out with other people one time and her friends were completely insecure and over the top about it. The main male character was a coward and I don't really feel like he redeemed himself in the end. I love 80's movies but I really felt like this book fell a little flat and was trying too hard.
March 6, 2020
Loved it
I loved this book. I volunteered to read it and was not disappointed. The story line and characters were well developed. This was definitely a cute, fun, and quirky read. My first book by the author and it won't be my last. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series as well!
I loved this book. I volunteered to read it and was not disappointed. The story line and characters were well developed. This was definitely a cute, fun, and quirky read. My first book by the author and it won't be my last. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series as well!
April 3, 2020
Cute read, lots of references to the classic 80’s movies
This was the first book I have read by this author combo. I really enjoyed that it was based off the movie Sixteen Candles. Sloan and Gabe had great chemistry. I liked how they both had their own issues to work through. I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
This was the first book I have read by this author combo. I really enjoyed that it was based off the movie Sixteen Candles. Sloan and Gabe had great chemistry. I liked how they both had their own issues to work through. I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
April 6, 2020
A sweet romance with an 80's theme. The characters were relatable and fun. Sloane was great, she knew who she was and what she wanted. Gabe, not so much, he has to come into his own and learn about himself and his strength. Something many young men and women face. This book had a few valuable lessons within it and some humor also. Great, fun read!
March 13, 2020
I love John Hughes movies and thought this was an original take on a YA romance book. I really enjoyed the concept of writing to Molly Ringwald and the journey of Sloane finding her "Jake". I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one in the series.
March 15, 2020
What an enjoyable read. Gabe and Sloan are just wonderful together, they definitely make the book what it is.
March 19, 2020
Pretty good contemporary. Not the best but had a good amount of angst that I could handle. Also, I need to go watch Sixteen Candles now.
July 20, 2020
I like the 80’s theme idea. It’s fun. I thought the story was well done. It is about high school kids, so don’t expect more than that.
April 6, 2021
ok let's pretend for a minute that Jake Ryan is still one of our dream boyfriends (because let's be honest, sixteen candles is a classic and a great movie but there's still a lot of things wrong with it that we can't overlook and Jake is NOT the ideal bf) and go from there. I thought this book was super cute and I totally tore through it. Sloane, harper, and Reagan are a great friend group and Gabe is so adorable. aside from the obvious romance and friendship that I loved, I really love the fact that Becca wasn't some vindictive, evil, popular girlfriend and that she was actually really sweet to all of the characters in the story. it was refreshing seeing the soon-to-be exgirlfriend not be turned into a horrible, jealous, and overbearing person just because. I'd honestly love to see a book about her.
anyways, I didn't think I was gonna write a review for this book but here we are. it's short, it's cute, it's an easy read. totally recommend it
anyways, I didn't think I was gonna write a review for this book but here we are. it's short, it's cute, it's an easy read. totally recommend it
September 2, 2022
I don't typically read YA/NA books, I prefer darker and more suspenseful romances but sometimes I need a "cleanser book" to take a step back from the ones I typically read and happened across this one. I love 80's movies and Molly Ringwald so I was looking forward to taking a breather with this one. It definitely served its purpose - it was a light, clean read. However, it was a bit predictable. I liked Sloane and her friends and thought their love for the 80s was cute. I didn't really care for Gabe (aka the "Jake Ryan" in this story). I hated how he was with another girl (Becca) for half the book yet still being flirty with Sloane. It wasn't fair to Becca or Sloane. It would have been one thing if Becca was an unlikeable character but she actually seemed like a very sweet person.
May 18, 2022
High school isn't the movies- mostly
Sloane belongs to her own tight group and has their own love of things 80s- a decade they were not born into but loved all the same- which didn't always mesh with other high school groups....
Until one boy came back from his studies abroad...
Gabe was back on home turf, and it was time to finally shake things up and reconnect- but was he really ready for that- even if it seems to take all his time to do that....
This was a sweet high school romance with a flair of 80s movies, a little heartache, a little drama and a whole lot of feeling.
Sloane belongs to her own tight group and has their own love of things 80s- a decade they were not born into but loved all the same- which didn't always mesh with other high school groups....
Until one boy came back from his studies abroad...
Gabe was back on home turf, and it was time to finally shake things up and reconnect- but was he really ready for that- even if it seems to take all his time to do that....
This was a sweet high school romance with a flair of 80s movies, a little heartache, a little drama and a whole lot of feeling.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews