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Restless
Julia’s been sick for days. No. Actually, Julia’s just been feeling the effects of the bond for days. But who did she bond to? Oh. Yeah. That’s right, Xavier, the ass, who is also an Other, or soon will be.
The Others, who are an enemy villain clan. Julia is supposed to “end” one day, whatever that means. But the joke’s on Julia.
Xavier and she could not be more polar opposites, but the bond doesn’t care. So what if they hated each other from the beginning? So what if they got on each other’s last nerve? They wanted to touch. Worse than that they needed to touch, or they would die. Thats how the bond worked, if they didn’t end up killing each other first. And how would Jeremy, another shapeshifter, and Julia’s best friend take it? Xavier was Jeremy’s arch enemy after all.
And then there’s all the questions surrounding her father, who’s been missing for years. She had so many questions and very few answers.
With the imminent threat of The Others looming, coupled with Xavier’s flippant behavior, it all had Julia feeling a bit ... Restless. And who could blame her? She didn’t ask to be The Chosen One, she just was, or was she ... ?
The Others, who are an enemy villain clan. Julia is supposed to “end” one day, whatever that means. But the joke’s on Julia.
Xavier and she could not be more polar opposites, but the bond doesn’t care. So what if they hated each other from the beginning? So what if they got on each other’s last nerve? They wanted to touch. Worse than that they needed to touch, or they would die. Thats how the bond worked, if they didn’t end up killing each other first. And how would Jeremy, another shapeshifter, and Julia’s best friend take it? Xavier was Jeremy’s arch enemy after all.
And then there’s all the questions surrounding her father, who’s been missing for years. She had so many questions and very few answers.
With the imminent threat of The Others looming, coupled with Xavier’s flippant behavior, it all had Julia feeling a bit ... Restless. And who could blame her? She didn’t ask to be The Chosen One, she just was, or was she ... ?
120 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2020
18 people want to read
About the author
Ava Cates
10 books35 followersAva Cates enjoys walking her dogs, going to church, coming up with new recipes to cook, eating cake, taking photographs and loves playing Christmas music in the middle of July. Follow her on Instagram @ava.cates.books & Twitter @AvaCates1
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 14, 2021
Julia is bonded to Xavier. And she does not like him at all. So she is truly conflicted between needing to spend time with him, and needing to stay away from him.
In the meantime she discovers that maybe, just maybe she might be a shifter too. And she does not know how to begin to tap into her powers.
She starts searching for her dad, who disappeared years ago, and does not want to be found.
Then there is Jeremy ... her best friend, the one helping her find her dad, Xavier's arch nemesis...
So many questions... Where did the cat Puss and Boots come from!? Who is J.Jones!? Will she ever meet her dad again? What are her feelings for Jeremy!? Is she a shifter, and will she ever be able to tap into her power!? Is she truly the Chosen One...
Another page turner from Ava Cates... perfectly melding contemporary with fantasy...
Quercus Books shared this book with me in exchange for a candid review.
In the meantime she discovers that maybe, just maybe she might be a shifter too. And she does not know how to begin to tap into her powers.
She starts searching for her dad, who disappeared years ago, and does not want to be found.
Then there is Jeremy ... her best friend, the one helping her find her dad, Xavier's arch nemesis...
So many questions... Where did the cat Puss and Boots come from!? Who is J.Jones!? Will she ever meet her dad again? What are her feelings for Jeremy!? Is she a shifter, and will she ever be able to tap into her power!? Is she truly the Chosen One...
Another page turner from Ava Cates... perfectly melding contemporary with fantasy...
Quercus Books shared this book with me in exchange for a candid review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2021
An incredible ride!
Reckless is the second book of a phenomenal series by Ava Cates, following the first book, Speechless. I absolutely adore these characters and spending time with them as they grow and learn to deal with ever-changing issues that come up.
From a shy and deaf young woman to a strong and confident young woman, I could not help but cheer Julia on. There is humor, romance, heart-warming and intriguing themes from beginning to end.
This is a series in the Young Adult Paranormal genre, and as a 46 year old adult, I couldn't put it down. I have honestly been in a bit of a reading slump and this brought me out of that left me aching to read more as I finished this story. I am so excited and anxious to see what happens next for Julia, Luke/Jeremy and Xavier.
I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for an engrossing, fun and addicting story. Fans of Jennifer Armentrout will fall in love with this series!
Reckless is the second book of a phenomenal series by Ava Cates, following the first book, Speechless. I absolutely adore these characters and spending time with them as they grow and learn to deal with ever-changing issues that come up.
From a shy and deaf young woman to a strong and confident young woman, I could not help but cheer Julia on. There is humor, romance, heart-warming and intriguing themes from beginning to end.
This is a series in the Young Adult Paranormal genre, and as a 46 year old adult, I couldn't put it down. I have honestly been in a bit of a reading slump and this brought me out of that left me aching to read more as I finished this story. I am so excited and anxious to see what happens next for Julia, Luke/Jeremy and Xavier.
I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for an engrossing, fun and addicting story. Fans of Jennifer Armentrout will fall in love with this series!
May 20, 2021
Restless is Book 2 of the Speechless series written my Ava Cates. It follows a deaf protagonist, Julia, who can speak and hear a certain group of persons who are known as shapeshifters. Bonded to someone that was so SHOCKING in the first novel, we follow Julia's journey with these persons, some of which are friends while others are not as she learns to defend herself, find her father who may not actually be dead and prepare to run (literally!) when hunted upon by the Others who don't want her to fulfill a prophecy.
Y'all. If you know or follow me by now, you know just how much I love this series. While it is a paranormal read, Ava Cates do not overwhelm readers with the world building, plot or character development at all. She takes her time while the book still being a fast read. I could not help but exclaim, laugh, smile and basically have all the feels for this book. I literally had to call friends to talk about what was happening cause it was that GREAT!
Ps. Ava is the Queen of cliffhangers and she has outdone herself once more! I cannot wait to read the third installment of this series called, "Breathless," which would be releasing on May 24th, 2021.
Pps. These covers are absolutely stunning!
Ppps. ADD THIS ONE TO YOUR LISTS NOW!
Y'all. If you know or follow me by now, you know just how much I love this series. While it is a paranormal read, Ava Cates do not overwhelm readers with the world building, plot or character development at all. She takes her time while the book still being a fast read. I could not help but exclaim, laugh, smile and basically have all the feels for this book. I literally had to call friends to talk about what was happening cause it was that GREAT!
Ps. Ava is the Queen of cliffhangers and she has outdone herself once more! I cannot wait to read the third installment of this series called, "Breathless," which would be releasing on May 24th, 2021.
Pps. These covers are absolutely stunning!
Ppps. ADD THIS ONE TO YOUR LISTS NOW!
May 4, 2021
I couldn't wait to read the next installment of this wonderful series!
I loved this book even more than the first one Speechless because it gave you more insight into the world of the Shapeshifter community and it also gave you more answers on Xavier and his relationship with Julia
I think this is a wonderful book with a unique take on YA Paranormal Romance considering that Julia is Deaf and she has to navigate this world not only reading lips or sign language but she can hear some of the people in her mind!
Book 3 here I come!
I loved this book even more than the first one Speechless because it gave you more insight into the world of the Shapeshifter community and it also gave you more answers on Xavier and his relationship with Julia
I think this is a wonderful book with a unique take on YA Paranormal Romance considering that Julia is Deaf and she has to navigate this world not only reading lips or sign language but she can hear some of the people in her mind!
Book 3 here I come!
January 12, 2021
Restless was another spellbinding story that pulled me deeper into the mysterious world of shapeshifters. After reading book one in this series I couldn't wait to find out what would happen with the "bond" that was formed between Julia and Xavier. Turns out I was in for quite a surprise! Everyone is not who they appear to be and in the shapeshifting world that can sure shake things up especially when a little romance is involved. I also really like how the book includes some chapters and insight from other characters. I am hooked and ready for the rest of the series! Thanks Ava Cates for another great read!
October 31, 2021
I don’t know how Ava Cates does it, but she really sucks you in. Despite the fact that Restless has just as many technical problems as the first book in the series, it still manages to make me forget everything else while I read it.
Maybe it’s the likable main character, Julia? Or the hunky Xavier? Maybe it’s the way Cates just kind of dangles these teasing hooks in front of you. And you think, eh. It’s not that big of a deal. Where’s her dad? Pretty generic question for YA. And yet… where the heck is her dad????
This book is also where the love triangle starts developing, though I personally don’t feel like it’s all that much of a triangle. This is where some of Cates’ technical problems come into play.
So we’ve been kind of seeing the love triangle on the horizon since book one. That’s no spoiler. But for the first 3/4 of Restless, I thought Cates had abandoned the idea in favor of making Jeremy a brotherly/friend type character. He was very protective of Julia, always concerned about her safety and her well being. But in a brotherly way almost. So much so that when they held hands/touched, I felt a little icky about it.
He didn’t flirt with her, didn’t show any kind of affection (other than concern for her well being), and the two didn’t share any intimate moments. I don’t mean dirty moments, I mean deep, relationship building moments.
They keep secrets from each other. There is zero sexual tension between them (no lingering looks, no thinking about mouths, no appreciation of a sexy physique.) No flirting of any kind from either party.
Over all, the impression I got was that Julia considered him to be a home base – a safe place to feel comfortable for a little bit between frustrating interactions with Xavier. Which made him feel like a family member to me.
But at the same time, even though it’s not on the page, I can tell where Cates is going with this. He’s the safe option, the good guy, the best friend. There is potential here for a real relationship, and thanks to all the tropes I’m so familiar with, I can see the bones of it. I just wish it were actually on the page.
And then there’s the Bad Boy…
I’m gonna say it right here and now, I’m Team Xavier all the way. I love me an enemies-to-lovers trope, a forced-proximity trope, a bad-boy trope, an asshole-with-a-heart-of-gold trope, and a grumpy-sunshine trope. And Xavier and Julia are ticking ALL the boxes.
Unlike Jeremy/Luke and Julia in book 1 (and in book 2, come to think of it), Xavier and Julia are on the page. Which leads me to predict that this is the true relationship, the one Cates herself is “rooting for.” This is the relationship Cates enjoys thinking about, so that’s the one that gets properly fleshed out on the page. That’s my guess, anyway. We’ll see how it turns out.
I’m totally okay with that. That’s what I want, too. LOL! So bring it on. I’m here for Xavier.
The technical problems were better in book two, but they’re still there.
Since the technical problems in Restless were basically the same as the ones in Speechless, I won’t go too deep into it here. As a quick overview: I found plenty of typos and editing mistakes (random half sentences that didn’t get completely deleted during editing). I don’t usually take note of specific typos, but there was one that cracked me up:
"…and Luke wondered if he’d ever mustard up the courage to ask her out?"
That’s not me teasing the author. That’s just funny on its own! Mustard. Lol. Sometimes the most innocent typos can be hilarious. Autocorrect beaters, we call them.
The pacing was a bit better in book 2, but it was still quite rushed. On multiple occasions, we raced from home, to school, to work, to home in just a few paragraphs, when it would have been better to simply not mention school at all.
And this time, Best Friend Jill had just one line, repeated over and over: “You look terrible.” It seems like her only role in Restless is to appear long enough to comment on Julia’s appearance, and then disappear until the next morning, at which point she’d comment on Julia’s appearance again. I’m hoping to see more of Jill in the next book, because there’s a lot of untapped potential there.
The one new problem that surfaced in Restless was the huge cast list. I had a hard time keeping up with at least half the characters. Cates drops names left and right without putting any characterization on the page for me to hold onto. Hopefully those characters will come into better focus as the series continues.
Despite all the problems, I am still totally into it. I want to know how things will turn out for our love triangle, because despite my confidence that Xavier is The One, honestly I don’t know how things will turn out. And I WANT to know. Cates threw at least a couple of twists that I never saw coming, and now I’m just stumped. She’s really good at that.
And this has nothing to do with Restless, but I just read the blurb for book three (Breathless), and it seems like Cates has set up a much bigger picture than we realize. Now I NEED to know what happens. Time to get reading!
Maybe it’s the likable main character, Julia? Or the hunky Xavier? Maybe it’s the way Cates just kind of dangles these teasing hooks in front of you. And you think, eh. It’s not that big of a deal. Where’s her dad? Pretty generic question for YA. And yet… where the heck is her dad????
This book is also where the love triangle starts developing, though I personally don’t feel like it’s all that much of a triangle. This is where some of Cates’ technical problems come into play.
So we’ve been kind of seeing the love triangle on the horizon since book one. That’s no spoiler. But for the first 3/4 of Restless, I thought Cates had abandoned the idea in favor of making Jeremy a brotherly/friend type character. He was very protective of Julia, always concerned about her safety and her well being. But in a brotherly way almost. So much so that when they held hands/touched, I felt a little icky about it.
He didn’t flirt with her, didn’t show any kind of affection (other than concern for her well being), and the two didn’t share any intimate moments. I don’t mean dirty moments, I mean deep, relationship building moments.
They keep secrets from each other. There is zero sexual tension between them (no lingering looks, no thinking about mouths, no appreciation of a sexy physique.) No flirting of any kind from either party.
Over all, the impression I got was that Julia considered him to be a home base – a safe place to feel comfortable for a little bit between frustrating interactions with Xavier. Which made him feel like a family member to me.
But at the same time, even though it’s not on the page, I can tell where Cates is going with this. He’s the safe option, the good guy, the best friend. There is potential here for a real relationship, and thanks to all the tropes I’m so familiar with, I can see the bones of it. I just wish it were actually on the page.
And then there’s the Bad Boy…
I’m gonna say it right here and now, I’m Team Xavier all the way. I love me an enemies-to-lovers trope, a forced-proximity trope, a bad-boy trope, an asshole-with-a-heart-of-gold trope, and a grumpy-sunshine trope. And Xavier and Julia are ticking ALL the boxes.
Unlike Jeremy/Luke and Julia in book 1 (and in book 2, come to think of it), Xavier and Julia are on the page. Which leads me to predict that this is the true relationship, the one Cates herself is “rooting for.” This is the relationship Cates enjoys thinking about, so that’s the one that gets properly fleshed out on the page. That’s my guess, anyway. We’ll see how it turns out.
I’m totally okay with that. That’s what I want, too. LOL! So bring it on. I’m here for Xavier.
The technical problems were better in book two, but they’re still there.
Since the technical problems in Restless were basically the same as the ones in Speechless, I won’t go too deep into it here. As a quick overview: I found plenty of typos and editing mistakes (random half sentences that didn’t get completely deleted during editing). I don’t usually take note of specific typos, but there was one that cracked me up:
"…and Luke wondered if he’d ever mustard up the courage to ask her out?"
That’s not me teasing the author. That’s just funny on its own! Mustard. Lol. Sometimes the most innocent typos can be hilarious. Autocorrect beaters, we call them.
The pacing was a bit better in book 2, but it was still quite rushed. On multiple occasions, we raced from home, to school, to work, to home in just a few paragraphs, when it would have been better to simply not mention school at all.
And this time, Best Friend Jill had just one line, repeated over and over: “You look terrible.” It seems like her only role in Restless is to appear long enough to comment on Julia’s appearance, and then disappear until the next morning, at which point she’d comment on Julia’s appearance again. I’m hoping to see more of Jill in the next book, because there’s a lot of untapped potential there.
The one new problem that surfaced in Restless was the huge cast list. I had a hard time keeping up with at least half the characters. Cates drops names left and right without putting any characterization on the page for me to hold onto. Hopefully those characters will come into better focus as the series continues.
Despite all the problems, I am still totally into it. I want to know how things will turn out for our love triangle, because despite my confidence that Xavier is The One, honestly I don’t know how things will turn out. And I WANT to know. Cates threw at least a couple of twists that I never saw coming, and now I’m just stumped. She’s really good at that.
And this has nothing to do with Restless, but I just read the blurb for book three (Breathless), and it seems like Cates has set up a much bigger picture than we realize. Now I NEED to know what happens. Time to get reading!
November 4, 2021
Julia has bonded with Xavier and has no clue what that really means. She continues to be sick because of the bonding but refuses to do what is necessary to prevent this happening unless forced. There is a Luke/Jeremy/Xavier triangle going on. Julia knows that Luke is Jeremy but she makes him keep pretending to be Jeremy whom she claims is her best friend. Meanwhile Luke is trying to find out who Julia's father is and is appalled when he finally discovers the information. He tells Julia and Xavier but the news comes as no surprise to Xavier. Julia is upset that Xavier knew but didn't tell her and mused "Maybe I didn’t know Xavier like I thought I did". The problem is she hasn't tried to get to know him and he's being a jerk anyway. She has finally kissed Luke/Jeremy and got zapped. Is she now bonded with him as well?
Julia and other characters seem to do a lot of "singing and chirping" in this book which seems an inappropriate response to the situation being discussed. I also was not aware that men "chirped or sang." Examples: When Julia is sick because of the bonding, Xavier explains what's happening “You’ll just get sicker and sicker.“ He sang as I turned to leave. On the occasion that Xavier was talking to his father about the situation with Julia, his father "chirped" - I got a call from Madeline today.” Xavier’s father chirped on the other side of the line. When her brother asked why she was doing cartwheels her response: “They’re just so ... so ... invigorating. Gets the blood pumping, you know.” I sang, trying hard not to roll my eyes.
There seems to be a lot of details left out and certain chapters end abruptly, sections appear to be missing or come out of nowhere. Often there are not enough details of what is occurring. It's hard to tell where one chapter ends and the next begins. Regardless, the story so far is interesting enough and entertaining. The Others are coming!
Julia and other characters seem to do a lot of "singing and chirping" in this book which seems an inappropriate response to the situation being discussed. I also was not aware that men "chirped or sang." Examples: When Julia is sick because of the bonding, Xavier explains what's happening “You’ll just get sicker and sicker.“ He sang as I turned to leave. On the occasion that Xavier was talking to his father about the situation with Julia, his father "chirped" - I got a call from Madeline today.” Xavier’s father chirped on the other side of the line. When her brother asked why she was doing cartwheels her response: “They’re just so ... so ... invigorating. Gets the blood pumping, you know.” I sang, trying hard not to roll my eyes.
There seems to be a lot of details left out and certain chapters end abruptly, sections appear to be missing or come out of nowhere. Often there are not enough details of what is occurring. It's hard to tell where one chapter ends and the next begins. Regardless, the story so far is interesting enough and entertaining. The Others are coming!
April 8, 2022
Shut the front door. Did somebody turn the heat up in the room? Or is it just my middle-aged body telling me that I need never mind!
Who knew this book would get all steamy, or is it just me that read it that way? Anyways nevermind.
Okay, so now we're getting into Vampire Diaries and One Tree Hill territory, and I'm here for it. The bond is strong, and if touching doesn't happen, it gets bad, like really bad. Get your mind out of the gutter. They are still in high school, GOSH!
Ms. Ava Cates took this book to a whole new level and made it something you want to read and not put down. You will put your chores away, want to see it, and binge the books, or is that just me?
I enjoyed the character development and how they are growing, and you are learning various aspects of their personalities. The pull to hate some of them, then love them at the same time was real. The dynamics of the relationships were exciting and inviting, and the invoked visualizations. There was a solid appeal to keep you interested until the last drop of the story.
Let me tell you, DO NOT READ AHEAD, but you will immediately grab book three when you read that last page; I know I did, and I'm already into chapter two right after finishing, LOL.
Who knew this book would get all steamy, or is it just me that read it that way? Anyways nevermind.
Okay, so now we're getting into Vampire Diaries and One Tree Hill territory, and I'm here for it. The bond is strong, and if touching doesn't happen, it gets bad, like really bad. Get your mind out of the gutter. They are still in high school, GOSH!
Ms. Ava Cates took this book to a whole new level and made it something you want to read and not put down. You will put your chores away, want to see it, and binge the books, or is that just me?
I enjoyed the character development and how they are growing, and you are learning various aspects of their personalities. The pull to hate some of them, then love them at the same time was real. The dynamics of the relationships were exciting and inviting, and the invoked visualizations. There was a solid appeal to keep you interested until the last drop of the story.
Let me tell you, DO NOT READ AHEAD, but you will immediately grab book three when you read that last page; I know I did, and I'm already into chapter two right after finishing, LOL.
May 19, 2021
I am so excited to be a part of the Ava Cates book tour . Five things to love about this series !
Book 2 3 1/2 stars rounded up to 4
📚Multiple POV / Love Triangle
📚Slow burn Enemies to Lovers Trope
📚YA with steam 🌶
📚 Paranormal fans of Shadowhunters and Darkest Minds will love this series
📚 Set in the country on a farm with lots of outdoor scenes..snow tubing at a ski resort!!!
It has been a long time since I read a series that the MC has a coming of age with her power, that the characters make you want to stay with them ! This is a completely new take on shapeshifting, and working with elementals, it seems the characters know no limits . The Others remind me of the order of Vampires that come after Edward and Bella in Twilight, they are scary and a force not to be reckoned with.
Julia is a sweet country girl, who loves her animals more than people. But you soon will find she is more than meets the eye.
Get all three books because you will want to sit down for a weekend with Julia, Xavier, Luke and the crew . Breathless book 3 is releasing May 24.
Book 2 3 1/2 stars rounded up to 4
📚Multiple POV / Love Triangle
📚Slow burn Enemies to Lovers Trope
📚YA with steam 🌶
📚 Paranormal fans of Shadowhunters and Darkest Minds will love this series
📚 Set in the country on a farm with lots of outdoor scenes..snow tubing at a ski resort!!!
It has been a long time since I read a series that the MC has a coming of age with her power, that the characters make you want to stay with them ! This is a completely new take on shapeshifting, and working with elementals, it seems the characters know no limits . The Others remind me of the order of Vampires that come after Edward and Bella in Twilight, they are scary and a force not to be reckoned with.
Julia is a sweet country girl, who loves her animals more than people. But you soon will find she is more than meets the eye.
Get all three books because you will want to sit down for a weekend with Julia, Xavier, Luke and the crew . Breathless book 3 is releasing May 24.
June 2, 2021
This was a delectable fast read that I absolutely cannot get enough of! This was the 2nd book in a 6 book series, Restless followed the cliffhanger events of Speechless and continued to tease its audience. The building of suspense and lore of the shapeshifters pulled me in and I couldn't put the book down. This was my introduction into a shifter series that had nothing to do with werewolves and I absolutely adored it. While I enjoyed the book, I was hoping to see Restless start off with the events that happened at the end of Speechless but instead, it was fast-forwarded to a month later. I don't know if the author will tell us what happened in that month or how the character got back to normal so for now I just took off a star. It felt like the perfect opportunity to expand upon shapeshifter lore that was either shelved for later or completely missed. Regardless, if you're interested in tantalizing suspense that leaves you wanting more this is definitely the series for you!
May 13, 2021
The paranormal saga continues with Julia, her knew shapeshifter friends, and the others. Things begin to complicate further with Julia and her bonded. While life on the farm and high school continues in the background, trying to shift and managing her bond takes up the majority of Julia’s time.
I love that the main character Julia is deaf but can communicate through the shapeshifters and “hear” them. She not only hears their voices but she can hear sounds they create such as wind, music, etc. It is seamlessly threaded throughout the story when she is speaking ASL or mind to mind.
However, there were a few aspects of the book I did not enjoy. I get hung up on the fact that she is so attached to Jeremy who is also Luke. I can understand her feelings of loss at first, but it becomes excessive. She would rather make Luke pretend to be another “normal” male then live in her current reality. However, it is clear that the boundaries between Jeremy and Luke are starting to blend.
Both Speechless (book 1) and Restless (Book 2) ended on huge cliff hangers. What will happen between a Julia, her bond(s), and the others? I am excited to read the final installment Breathless coming soon! I recommend this series to anyone looking for a quick and fun paranormal read!
I love that the main character Julia is deaf but can communicate through the shapeshifters and “hear” them. She not only hears their voices but she can hear sounds they create such as wind, music, etc. It is seamlessly threaded throughout the story when she is speaking ASL or mind to mind.
However, there were a few aspects of the book I did not enjoy. I get hung up on the fact that she is so attached to Jeremy who is also Luke. I can understand her feelings of loss at first, but it becomes excessive. She would rather make Luke pretend to be another “normal” male then live in her current reality. However, it is clear that the boundaries between Jeremy and Luke are starting to blend.
Both Speechless (book 1) and Restless (Book 2) ended on huge cliff hangers. What will happen between a Julia, her bond(s), and the others? I am excited to read the final installment Breathless coming soon! I recommend this series to anyone looking for a quick and fun paranormal read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2020
I am hooked and need to know what happens next. Ava does a great job setting the scenes and keeping the story flowing. Also, for someone who doesn't read a lot of Paranormal books, I felt like she does an excellent job explaining the supernatural so that readers like me don't get lost. She also does a great job at playing games with your heart... like every part of me wants to not trust or like Xavier, but there is something there that is pulling me in. However, I am all for Jeremy/Luke... no one is better than him. The last handful of chapters really pull you in and a lot is revealed in the last bit. I am ready for the next book already.
November 17, 2021
Mysteries Keep Coming . . .
This segment starts off with Julia being sick because of the bond with Xavier, whom she doesn’t like because of his irritating attitude. Yet now, she has to stay close to him even if she fights it. Most of my attention was on what’s going on with Xavier and Jeremy/Luke, wondering if Julia will be with Xavier, as the bond would make me believe, or if something is possible with shapeshifter Jeremy/Luke? Can she bond with both? Will she find out about her father now?
I love the twists and turns we are taken through in this story line that won’t let go! The surprises keep coming and I’m eager for the next book!
This segment starts off with Julia being sick because of the bond with Xavier, whom she doesn’t like because of his irritating attitude. Yet now, she has to stay close to him even if she fights it. Most of my attention was on what’s going on with Xavier and Jeremy/Luke, wondering if Julia will be with Xavier, as the bond would make me believe, or if something is possible with shapeshifter Jeremy/Luke? Can she bond with both? Will she find out about her father now?
I love the twists and turns we are taken through in this story line that won’t let go! The surprises keep coming and I’m eager for the next book!
May 5, 2021
Drama! Drama! Drama!
I could not stop reading, I got sucked in and did not want to leave.
Julia's life has changed and she is being hit by so many truths.
We get to finally see Xavier and the bond that he shares with Julia. The only way to help each other and become stronger is by.... touch!
So now Julia is forced to spend time with Xavier and become stronger. We get to see Julia's relationship with Xavier more, and I really enjoyed the banter between them.
My favourite character is Puss in Boots, he cracked me up!
I could not stop reading, I got sucked in and did not want to leave.
Julia's life has changed and she is being hit by so many truths.
We get to finally see Xavier and the bond that he shares with Julia. The only way to help each other and become stronger is by.... touch!
So now Julia is forced to spend time with Xavier and become stronger. We get to see Julia's relationship with Xavier more, and I really enjoyed the banter between them.
My favourite character is Puss in Boots, he cracked me up!
May 13, 2021
The heat is turned up in this sequel. Just like Speechless, I whizzed through this story and enjoyed the ride - probably even more so this time round :)
Julia has so much sass & grit and I'm very appreciative of the fact that she isn't heavily portrayed as a meek damsel in distress. The digs and awkward moments between her and Xavier were really entertaining to read and are some of the highlights of this book for me.
Eagerly waiting for the next book to come out because Ava Cates really knows how to leave you ready for your next fix.
Julia has so much sass & grit and I'm very appreciative of the fact that she isn't heavily portrayed as a meek damsel in distress. The digs and awkward moments between her and Xavier were really entertaining to read and are some of the highlights of this book for me.
Eagerly waiting for the next book to come out because Ava Cates really knows how to leave you ready for your next fix.
May 19, 2021
I am absolutely loving this series. I've read the first two books in about 24 hours, and I can't wait to start on my ARC copy of the third one.
I don't want to give any spoilers, so I just have to say that Ava Cates is a magnificent storyteller. Her characters have become near and dear to me. Julia, Luke, Jeremy, and Puss in Boots are by far my favorites. I love how she didn't make things simple for Julia. I love the way she handles the relationships between the characters, and I am so glad I have an ARC of book three. There is no way I could wait to find out what happens next!
I don't want to give any spoilers, so I just have to say that Ava Cates is a magnificent storyteller. Her characters have become near and dear to me. Julia, Luke, Jeremy, and Puss in Boots are by far my favorites. I love how she didn't make things simple for Julia. I love the way she handles the relationships between the characters, and I am so glad I have an ARC of book three. There is no way I could wait to find out what happens next!
May 22, 2021
4.5 ✨
Restless picks up where Speechless left off. Enemies Julia and Xavier now have to navigate some kind of friendship for both their sakes. Ava Cates once again kept that momentum level of mystery high! She had me entranced with each word. This story also came with some shocking truths revealed that shook things up for Julia and her friends and some twists I did not see coming. This series has totally brought me outside my comfort zone as I don’t typically read YA or fantasy but Ava Cates has definitely shown me what I’m missing. Restless is the perfect title because that’s the exact feeling Ava invoked as you hungered for answers that left you with even more questions.
Restless picks up where Speechless left off. Enemies Julia and Xavier now have to navigate some kind of friendship for both their sakes. Ava Cates once again kept that momentum level of mystery high! She had me entranced with each word. This story also came with some shocking truths revealed that shook things up for Julia and her friends and some twists I did not see coming. This series has totally brought me outside my comfort zone as I don’t typically read YA or fantasy but Ava Cates has definitely shown me what I’m missing. Restless is the perfect title because that’s the exact feeling Ava invoked as you hungered for answers that left you with even more questions.
May 22, 2021
It's the 2nd installment in this series written by Ava Cates preceded by speechless. Same characters same concept but feelings are different. Character development is insanely good. From a shy and deaf girl to courageous and confident woman. This book has it all!! from humour to romance you can find everything in this book!! It's really unputta un-puttable and it's fast paced. Writing is lucid and Narration is great. Overall it was a great book to read. Now off to "Breathless" 😂
October 16, 2021
This was the second book in the series and every bit as much fun as the first! I love learning more about these characters and watching them take this wild ride! The writing flows so beautifully that you’re just flying through it until suddenly you’re at the end. I guarantee you’ll be reaching for the third immediately!!
October 24, 2021
Second book in the series and it is getting better. The writing has smoothed out and the drag in the first book was not present in this one. Brian and Brain confusion a bit in the book but that is bound to happen with that name. Interesting developments have definitely lead me to the third book.
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.
November 5, 2021
Loved the progression of the characters and the fact things are getting a bit more intwined with Jeremy/Luke. That jealously are rising and that friendships are being formed with the group. And that love triangle just got more complicated. Can not wait to see what happens next.
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.
December 13, 2021
This is the 2nd book I've read written by Ava Cates; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
This is the nd book in the Speechless; Restless Series; the story continues from the previous book and needs to be read in order.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the nd book in the Speechless; Restless Series; the story continues from the previous book and needs to be read in order.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2021
Wow. This took a turn didn't it. I didn't expect a lot of this story. The mark is so cool to me. I enjoyed the banter between Julia and Xavier. The twist with the mark made me so happy. The ending was crazy. I really like this a lot. I need to jump into the next book!
January 17, 2021
This book was just as good if not better than book 1! I need so much more. I love the characters is much and their development in this book.
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
March 2, 2022
An amazing sequel to Speechless.
May 24, 2021
𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 picks up immediately where we left off in book 1, 𝙎𝙥𝙚𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨. Julia has just bonded with this mystery person and has this amazing tattoo on her back that reacts when she’s close to or touches said person, but who is it? She soon finds out, but is it good or bad thing? HA! I’m not telling because this is a spoiler free zone! Just know we find out and Julia and friends seek to know what this means! Her shifter friend is still on the hunt for her father as well as in hopes this will give them more insight on what all of this means - the bond, how she can hear the Others, and what does Julia have to do to save the day from the villains!
I am in love with this cute series. Julia, Luke/Jeremy and friends are the cutest and I wish I went to high school with them 🤣 This book will reel you in with the cute budding teen romance, the back and for between Julia and Xavier, and the mysteries that unfolds about the Others and Julia. I’m now on to see how this one ends in 𝘽𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨
I am in love with this cute series. Julia, Luke/Jeremy and friends are the cutest and I wish I went to high school with them 🤣 This book will reel you in with the cute budding teen romance, the back and for between Julia and Xavier, and the mysteries that unfolds about the Others and Julia. I’m now on to see how this one ends in 𝘽𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨
May 28, 2021
I was hooked and read this book in practically one sitting. For me, this book definitely continued the Twilight vibes of the 1st book titled Speechless. The drama continues with Julia, Luke and Xavier. Julia is still sick and is trying to figure out who she has “bonded” with. This bonding draws her to one person and this means more than Julia realizes -- not just for her but those she cares about. And let’s not forget about The Others who are hunting for the one person that is supposed to end them… dun dun dunnnn.
I just love this fun YA romance series! I’m hooked and am definitely ready for the 3rd book, Breathless.
I just love this fun YA romance series! I’m hooked and am definitely ready for the 3rd book, Breathless.
May 24, 2021
Restless is the second book of Speechless written by Ava Cates. If you have not read the first book, I suggest you do so before reading this review as it may have spoilers. Restless is a young adult novel. It is a super adorable story that takes place after Speechless. We discover that Juila is uber sick because she has bonded with Xavier, who she hates more than she can bear. I did find it hard to read at first, but once it stuck it was a great tale. Ave Cates writing made me fall in love with the characters and became involved with them. Omg! It was an amazing read. I definitely recommend it. I usually don't read YA, but this one was good. I enjoyed reading how Juila transform from this timid girl into a strong, hardcore, and confident young woman. This book does leave me wanting more. I cannot wait to see where life will take Xavier and Julia.
December 31, 2025
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book after the way book one end and now I'm jumping for book three. I am still confused at times but invested in the story.
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