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Freaking Love #1
First Love
You’ve got to be freaking kidding me.
Seventeen and knocked up was not how I saw my life going. Yet, somehow, here I am. And I already know… this isn’t going to go well.
My mother? She’s gonna kill me. This is pretty much the one thing she asked me not to do. The only thing she never wanted for me.
My dad? He might hide it, but seeing disappointment in his eyes would be enough to break me.
My best friends? Well, let’s face it, they’re pretty much the most supportive people on the planet, but I don’t think any teenager is excited to hear their best friend is pregnant. Not to mention it’s going to change everything because then there’s…
Braden. The boy I’ve loved since I was six. I don’t think he can handle it. I know he’s not ready for it. We’ve always had an easy time. I thought our love was different, that it could last a lifetime. But now, I’m not so sure. I’m afraid this might be the thing that destroys us. Can first love survive real life? Can we survive this?
Freaking Love is a mature coming-of-age romantic drama about first loves, lifelong friendships, what family really is, big drama, hard life lessons, and, of course, love. Stupid freaking love. Recommended for ages 16+
Seventeen and knocked up was not how I saw my life going. Yet, somehow, here I am. And I already know… this isn’t going to go well.
My mother? She’s gonna kill me. This is pretty much the one thing she asked me not to do. The only thing she never wanted for me.
My dad? He might hide it, but seeing disappointment in his eyes would be enough to break me.
My best friends? Well, let’s face it, they’re pretty much the most supportive people on the planet, but I don’t think any teenager is excited to hear their best friend is pregnant. Not to mention it’s going to change everything because then there’s…
Braden. The boy I’ve loved since I was six. I don’t think he can handle it. I know he’s not ready for it. We’ve always had an easy time. I thought our love was different, that it could last a lifetime. But now, I’m not so sure. I’m afraid this might be the thing that destroys us. Can first love survive real life? Can we survive this?
Freaking Love is a mature coming-of-age romantic drama about first loves, lifelong friendships, what family really is, big drama, hard life lessons, and, of course, love. Stupid freaking love. Recommended for ages 16+
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2022
About the author
Bethany Monaco Smith
43 books208 followersBethany Monaco Smith is a writer-mom. When she’s not busy hanging with her boys, she’s writing cozy small town romances with lots of heart, a bit of steam, and all the feels. She loves happily-ever-afters and cries at every emotional moment, whether reading, writing, or watching. When she’s not mom-ing or writing, you can find her binge-reading on Kindle Unlimited, spending too much time on Instagram, and supporting fellow indie authors. Bethany survives on coffee, rewatching the same TV shows over and over, and her KU subscription. She lives in the Southern Tier of NY with her husband and two sons. You can find out more about Bethany and what she’s working on next on Instagram @bethanymonacosmith
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 5, 2022
This book is a real emotional story about teenagers who get the most complicated thing thrust at them and have to fight to survive it. Their relationship, fears, and lives change for the better, but the fight is an uphill battle for both Braden and Maia.
I love Maia's character in this story; even though she is struggling and emotional, she is intelligent, determined and stubborn; she believes in family, love, and friends. On the other hand, Braden is immature, not responsible, and kinda annoying. He didn't have it together, and he does a lot of stupid stuff. But I understand it as he isn't ready to grow up but needs to. This story doesn't end happy, and the emotions will have you balling one minute and swooning the next, so be prepared as you navigate a story about support, teenage pregnancy, and having to grow up.
This story is an excellent reminder for those who may need it about how hard life can be when you are too young to embrace the responsibility.
Maia spends the first page of the book on a tangent about some considerable changes to her relationship with her boyfriend, Braden. She drops a bomb on him and probably could have had better timing, poor guy.
Braden and Maia really step up to the changes and even do the right thing, but you can't blame their fears as they are both very young and unsure of what will happen next. Maia is waiting for it all to come crashing down, and so far, it hasn't.
Life isn't easy for Maia and Braden, but they have a great support system and loving friends and family. They both deal with a lot of drama and have to figure out how to move forward. This book will wreck you with emotional upheaval; it is like a rollercoaster or happy to desperately sad.
This book doesn't end happily, but there is a part two to this story that I am looking forward to reading.
I love Maia's character in this story; even though she is struggling and emotional, she is intelligent, determined and stubborn; she believes in family, love, and friends. On the other hand, Braden is immature, not responsible, and kinda annoying. He didn't have it together, and he does a lot of stupid stuff. But I understand it as he isn't ready to grow up but needs to. This story doesn't end happy, and the emotions will have you balling one minute and swooning the next, so be prepared as you navigate a story about support, teenage pregnancy, and having to grow up.
This story is an excellent reminder for those who may need it about how hard life can be when you are too young to embrace the responsibility.
Maia spends the first page of the book on a tangent about some considerable changes to her relationship with her boyfriend, Braden. She drops a bomb on him and probably could have had better timing, poor guy.
Braden and Maia really step up to the changes and even do the right thing, but you can't blame their fears as they are both very young and unsure of what will happen next. Maia is waiting for it all to come crashing down, and so far, it hasn't.
Life isn't easy for Maia and Braden, but they have a great support system and loving friends and family. They both deal with a lot of drama and have to figure out how to move forward. This book will wreck you with emotional upheaval; it is like a rollercoaster or happy to desperately sad.
This book doesn't end happily, but there is a part two to this story that I am looking forward to reading.
January 25, 2022
It has taken me two days to write this review. This book was that on point. It was beyond moving and left me so emotionally spent. What a beautiful love story! The love between a parent and a child. The love between a girl and boy as they grow into a young woman and a young man. The love between friends. This story is about more than love though, it is about growing up, and heartbreak. The main character, Maia, is fierce, steadfast, and loving. To be a teenager and thrust into her position is not an easy one to be sure and yet she handles it with grace. Her love Braden is in equal parts irresponsible and loving. They are quite the opposites attract couple. They have a support network of family and friends that are beyond imaginable.
To say I loved this book is an understatement. I have seen teenage pregnancy up close and personal and know the struggle it entails. Bethany captured it so perfectly, the struggle, the emotions, everything. I walked into this story knowing it was part of a series and would not necessarily have an immediate ending. IT WAS WORTH IT!! This book will be part of a three book series that expands on each point of view and expands on the world that is Ida. This story is for readers 16+ and I highly recommend it. 😊
To say I loved this book is an understatement. I have seen teenage pregnancy up close and personal and know the struggle it entails. Bethany captured it so perfectly, the struggle, the emotions, everything. I walked into this story knowing it was part of a series and would not necessarily have an immediate ending. IT WAS WORTH IT!! This book will be part of a three book series that expands on each point of view and expands on the world that is Ida. This story is for readers 16+ and I highly recommend it. 😊
January 28, 2022
"Like a semi-truck is trying to maneuver out of my vagina" 😂😂 Can't wait for book 2!
Sometimes the flow of a story can seem forced. This is NOT the case with Freaking Love. Everything in this story just works. It could definitely be real conversations about real feelings between real people. It really brought me back to when I was a teenager and all the highs and lows that came with it. Telling your parents that you're pregnant at 17 takes so much courage and though Maia gets mixed reactions she has the most amazing group of people around her. Honestly, I wish I had friends like that when I was a teenager! I could do without Ashley though. Both then AND now. Ugh.. mean girls, am I right?
The parents in general, and especially Abuelita, made me think of the quote from Lilo and Stitch "Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten". ❤
The only reason this book didn't get five stars is because it got too mushy and a bit over the top for me, with teenagers saying profound things in almost every conversation, because let's face it.. teenagers are not the wisest of people 😅
Sometimes the flow of a story can seem forced. This is NOT the case with Freaking Love. Everything in this story just works. It could definitely be real conversations about real feelings between real people. It really brought me back to when I was a teenager and all the highs and lows that came with it. Telling your parents that you're pregnant at 17 takes so much courage and though Maia gets mixed reactions she has the most amazing group of people around her. Honestly, I wish I had friends like that when I was a teenager! I could do without Ashley though. Both then AND now. Ugh.. mean girls, am I right?
The parents in general, and especially Abuelita, made me think of the quote from Lilo and Stitch "Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten". ❤
The only reason this book didn't get five stars is because it got too mushy and a bit over the top for me, with teenagers saying profound things in almost every conversation, because let's face it.. teenagers are not the wisest of people 😅
January 28, 2022
Y’all if this book is not on your TBR, go add it right now (I’ll wait). This is a beautifully heartbreaking story of coming of age and dealing with the hard realities of life. Sometimes the best laid plans get messed up. What do you do then? This story follows Maia and her struggle through all that life throws at her. She finds it hard to navigate but she realizes pretty quick that she doesn’t have to do it on her own. She leans on her friends and her family. Not everyone is supportive and that hurts, but her determination is what I love about her. She is 100% in and she will fight to make it work, but I also believe she has enough self worth to know when it’s time to let go of certain things. I was literally bawling by the end and I cannot wait for the second part. P.S. her dad is my favorite side character!
January 15, 2022
The emotions in this story are spectacular, well written, and expertly expressed. I absolutely adored the humor of the main character, her personality and internal dialogue made me actually care for Maia. I struggle with connecting to feel good romance novels in general, so the fact that I could in this (and about a teenager nonetheless!) this is hard to come by for me. The progress of the pregnancy itself made me remember my own and relate to her in the struggles here and there, especially when you’re young like that. Can’t wait to read part two!
January 31, 2022
This was an emotional charged Start to a series. I loved Maia and how she handled the fact that she was pregnant. Everything she went through internally and externally was realistic and heartbreaking. Braden character ended up being immature. And altho he tried at the start he ended up not ready to handle everything. And the end of this book will break your heart. Can’t wait for the next one.
January 19, 2022
Freaking Love is the beautiful and emotional story of two teens who have been in love since they were children, facing the biggest obstacle imaginable - an unplanned pregnancy. Maia is mature and responsible, and once the shock of the pregnancy test wears off, she realizes that she is going to have to face this challenge head-on, starting with telling her family and close friends, and of course her boyfriend, Braden. Unfortunately Braden is not exactly as mature and responsible as Maia, which leads to problems down the line. But Maia is blessed to have an incredible support system once everyone has had time to adjust to the news.
This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride as these two people - still just kids themselves - figure out how to navigate pregnancy and life as new parents. I'll be honest with you - this book doesn't have the happily-ever-after that you might want. It ends with a cliffhanger that will break you a little bit. But it's the first book in a series, so there is more to come for Maia and Braden and their friends and family. I adored these supporting characters, by the way. I want to be in the middle of all that love and support and laughter and teasing and even more love.
My only criticism I have is that I wish the subject of teenage alcohol use had been brought to the forefront not just as a symptom of larger issues, but as a major issue in and of itself. But it may be that I am just extremely sensitive about this subject, as the mother of a teenager myself and as someone who sees the effects of teenage drinking on a regular basis in my job. And one other note for those that read YA and are not accustomed to seeing teenagers actually having sex on the page, just be aware that there are a couple of scenes that are not overly graphic, but it's not a closed-door situation. Just something to keep in mind if you're thinking of letting a younger teen read this.
But overall I really enjoyed this book. The author did a fantastic job with a delicate subject and gave us a beautiful coming of age story that has me looking forward to the next book in the series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Thank you to the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride as these two people - still just kids themselves - figure out how to navigate pregnancy and life as new parents. I'll be honest with you - this book doesn't have the happily-ever-after that you might want. It ends with a cliffhanger that will break you a little bit. But it's the first book in a series, so there is more to come for Maia and Braden and their friends and family. I adored these supporting characters, by the way. I want to be in the middle of all that love and support and laughter and teasing and even more love.
My only criticism I have is that I wish the subject of teenage alcohol use had been brought to the forefront not just as a symptom of larger issues, but as a major issue in and of itself. But it may be that I am just extremely sensitive about this subject, as the mother of a teenager myself and as someone who sees the effects of teenage drinking on a regular basis in my job. And one other note for those that read YA and are not accustomed to seeing teenagers actually having sex on the page, just be aware that there are a couple of scenes that are not overly graphic, but it's not a closed-door situation. Just something to keep in mind if you're thinking of letting a younger teen read this.
But overall I really enjoyed this book. The author did a fantastic job with a delicate subject and gave us a beautiful coming of age story that has me looking forward to the next book in the series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Thank you to the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2022
Maia is a teenage girl who finds herself pregnant, something she never expected to be at seventeen. The book follows along her journey into motherhood, where she, with the help of friends and family, tries to navigate all that is life as a pregnant teenager.
I loved the characters. Everyone seemed very genuine and had their own reason for being part of the story. Maia also seemed very authentic in the way she reacted to situations, sometimes being overly dramatic the way a pregnant teenager probably would be. She didn't act like an adult, nor should she have.
There is a lot of dialogue in this book, some really amazing and gripping conversations between Maia and her family, but I did feel that at times this slowed down the pacing some--especially in the beginning. We're retold a few times that Maia is pregnant, and get to watch her relive that over and over as she tells family and friends. While I loved seeing everyone's reaction, especially her mothers, I found myself sometimes skipping parts of the dialogue because I'd already read a similar excerpt before. This is just a my own preference, I'm not huge on dialogue. I prefer action and things happening, but even for someone who prefers that side of things, I LOVED this story. I loved being in Maia's head as she tried to find her own way, always trying to do what was best for her and her unborn child.
There is some heat in this book, several sex scenes throughout. And if you are not into reading about teenagers having sex, this might not be the book for you. Of course teenagers have sex and explore at this age, so I definitely don't feel like it felt out of place. I loved seeing how Maia connected to her partner and it might have been strange to not have those scenes in considering she is pregnant after all. I was okay with it as it wasn't very descriptive in the traditional sense, but it's just a heads up!
I would recommend this book to anyone, whether you read adult romance or YA romance. It was sweet, heart-breaking, frustrating in the best of ways when characters don't respond the way you hope they would, yet everything comes together so beautifully at the end!
I loved the characters. Everyone seemed very genuine and had their own reason for being part of the story. Maia also seemed very authentic in the way she reacted to situations, sometimes being overly dramatic the way a pregnant teenager probably would be. She didn't act like an adult, nor should she have.
There is a lot of dialogue in this book, some really amazing and gripping conversations between Maia and her family, but I did feel that at times this slowed down the pacing some--especially in the beginning. We're retold a few times that Maia is pregnant, and get to watch her relive that over and over as she tells family and friends. While I loved seeing everyone's reaction, especially her mothers, I found myself sometimes skipping parts of the dialogue because I'd already read a similar excerpt before. This is just a my own preference, I'm not huge on dialogue. I prefer action and things happening, but even for someone who prefers that side of things, I LOVED this story. I loved being in Maia's head as she tried to find her own way, always trying to do what was best for her and her unborn child.
There is some heat in this book, several sex scenes throughout. And if you are not into reading about teenagers having sex, this might not be the book for you. Of course teenagers have sex and explore at this age, so I definitely don't feel like it felt out of place. I loved seeing how Maia connected to her partner and it might have been strange to not have those scenes in considering she is pregnant after all. I was okay with it as it wasn't very descriptive in the traditional sense, but it's just a heads up!
I would recommend this book to anyone, whether you read adult romance or YA romance. It was sweet, heart-breaking, frustrating in the best of ways when characters don't respond the way you hope they would, yet everything comes together so beautifully at the end!
January 18, 2022
Freaking Love is one of those books that has you thinking about your own life… why? Because the story feels so real. The emotion, the experiences of the main characters, the heartbreak. Everything feels real.
Maia and Braden’s story is an emotional rollercoaster, full of up’s and downs, that keeps you hooked until the end. The end… the heartbreaking cliffhanger that will definitely have you waiting no so patiently for book two.
Maia is a wonderful character who beautifully shares her journey through pregnancy and motherhood, as she’s forced to enter adulthood at lot sooner than planned. She doesn’t shy away from any of the hard times and I found myself laughing and cringing along with her.
Braden is frustrating at times, but has moments that show that he wants to do the right thing but has his own issues to get through. I’m looking forward to see what he goes through in book two.
The secondary characters in this book are everything. I want my own Vince, or Leigh, or even Nick. I was definitely invested in their stories too.
Overall, a lovely coming of age story beautifully written by Bethany.
Can’t wait for book two.
Maia and Braden’s story is an emotional rollercoaster, full of up’s and downs, that keeps you hooked until the end. The end… the heartbreaking cliffhanger that will definitely have you waiting no so patiently for book two.
Maia is a wonderful character who beautifully shares her journey through pregnancy and motherhood, as she’s forced to enter adulthood at lot sooner than planned. She doesn’t shy away from any of the hard times and I found myself laughing and cringing along with her.
Braden is frustrating at times, but has moments that show that he wants to do the right thing but has his own issues to get through. I’m looking forward to see what he goes through in book two.
The secondary characters in this book are everything. I want my own Vince, or Leigh, or even Nick. I was definitely invested in their stories too.
Overall, a lovely coming of age story beautifully written by Bethany.
Can’t wait for book two.
March 19, 2022
OMG, this review has taken me two days to write, probably because I’m still emotional from reading it. This book put me right in my feels. I could relate to Maias story is so many ways because I too was a mother at 17. I lived the life she lived, I walked the road she walked, I felt the way she felt. Reading this brought up a lot of emotions and memories of my own. I literally felt like I was her in the book, I kept holding my breath during certain parts and I had to keep reminding myself its just a book its not my real life. The detail she goes into is purely amazing. Some books you read seem so forced, that was not the case for this book, it flowed beautifully and exceeded every expectation I had for it. The story felt so real, you could feel the love, the heartbreak, the emotion so well. To be honest it was an emotional rollercoaster from beginning to end and then leaves you waiting and wanting more with the cliffhanger at the end. I 10/10 recommend reading asap as part two comes out soon!
August 30, 2022
I wish I could do in between stars because I give this a very solid 4.75! Anyhow…
What do you do when you go from a fairly normal teenage girl, working over the summer at your dad’s company…to the talk of the school and growing up a lot faster than you have to? Maia is your fairly typical teenage girl. She’s in love with Braden, even though he can be irresponsible. She has her best girl friend, Leigh, and her best guy friend, Vince, by her side no matter what. She has two sets of parents, siblings that would do anything for her, and other friends who have helped her learn to navigate a huge change in her life. What she doesn’t have though? Braden’s respect in return. Maia has to learn how to handle panic attacks - and she feels like she needs to go through a lot alone. She’s always protected and loved everyone else. Now it’s everyone else’s turn to be there for her. How can she go from “typical” teen, to one of the biggest roles of her lifetime?
What do you do when you go from a fairly normal teenage girl, working over the summer at your dad’s company…to the talk of the school and growing up a lot faster than you have to? Maia is your fairly typical teenage girl. She’s in love with Braden, even though he can be irresponsible. She has her best girl friend, Leigh, and her best guy friend, Vince, by her side no matter what. She has two sets of parents, siblings that would do anything for her, and other friends who have helped her learn to navigate a huge change in her life. What she doesn’t have though? Braden’s respect in return. Maia has to learn how to handle panic attacks - and she feels like she needs to go through a lot alone. She’s always protected and loved everyone else. Now it’s everyone else’s turn to be there for her. How can she go from “typical” teen, to one of the biggest roles of her lifetime?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2022
Beautiful and Heart Wrenching
Wow Bethany knows how to pull at the heartstrings. This beautiful, raw and gut wrenching story will have you feeling all the feels. I am sobbing for Maia, my heart is broken for her. This story is incredible, it is emotional and real.
Maia is young happy and carefree until her world is turned upside down and she finds out at sixteen she is pregnant. Her boyfriend Braden steps up and wants to help her every step of the way. But this isn’t easy, these two learn, life is hard and it takes more than love to build a family. Will they be able to survive or will life and hardships get in the way?
Bethany Monsco Smith writes with such heart and emotion. I was crying, laughing and feeling for Maia and Braden so much. This beautiful story will have you falling for the incredible cast of characters and have you falling hard for Bethany’s beautiful writing. I have read almost all of her books, and have loved everyone. This is a must devour. 💕💕
Wow Bethany knows how to pull at the heartstrings. This beautiful, raw and gut wrenching story will have you feeling all the feels. I am sobbing for Maia, my heart is broken for her. This story is incredible, it is emotional and real.
Maia is young happy and carefree until her world is turned upside down and she finds out at sixteen she is pregnant. Her boyfriend Braden steps up and wants to help her every step of the way. But this isn’t easy, these two learn, life is hard and it takes more than love to build a family. Will they be able to survive or will life and hardships get in the way?
Bethany Monsco Smith writes with such heart and emotion. I was crying, laughing and feeling for Maia and Braden so much. This beautiful story will have you falling for the incredible cast of characters and have you falling hard for Bethany’s beautiful writing. I have read almost all of her books, and have loved everyone. This is a must devour. 💕💕
November 4, 2022
Just wow....hitting the me right in the feels from the start
I loved everything about this book.
As much as a cop out as it sounds the subjects and issues that were covered was amazing.
I have never related to a book so thoroughly with the love, loss navigating teen years and the drama that can unleash from just a few simple life decisions.
Each character within the story is dealing with so many issues which are closely linked and yet totally not at the same time. Bethany has managed to portray every angle of each characters personality and the depths in which they are intertwined.
Young first love, heartbreak, loss, isolation, mental health struggles each issue raised was dealt with the upmost care and ensured that no ones point of view was flippantly portrayed and noones issues were lesser than anyone else.
Part two here i come for which is no doubt going to be amazing.
I loved everything about this book.
As much as a cop out as it sounds the subjects and issues that were covered was amazing.
I have never related to a book so thoroughly with the love, loss navigating teen years and the drama that can unleash from just a few simple life decisions.
Each character within the story is dealing with so many issues which are closely linked and yet totally not at the same time. Bethany has managed to portray every angle of each characters personality and the depths in which they are intertwined.
Young first love, heartbreak, loss, isolation, mental health struggles each issue raised was dealt with the upmost care and ensured that no ones point of view was flippantly portrayed and noones issues were lesser than anyone else.
Part two here i come for which is no doubt going to be amazing.
April 7, 2022
Bethany has a way of writing realistic life scenarios. This story is jam packed with so much emotion, it’s as if you were witnessing the scenes unfold in person.
We always want love to conquer all. But when you’re seventeen, pregnant, and still finding out who you are, your priorities shift. In Freaking Love, you get to read about Maia and how she deals with her new reality and how it shapes her life and her relationships.
The best part of the book are the relationships between each character. They add so much value, support and are incorporated so seamlessly. The worst, was the ending. It just ends while your heart is racing with trepidation. Bethany, you can’t just leave me hanging. I need to know what happens next… fast!
If you haven’t done so yet, add this book to your TBR pile. I can’t wait to read what happens to Maia next!
We always want love to conquer all. But when you’re seventeen, pregnant, and still finding out who you are, your priorities shift. In Freaking Love, you get to read about Maia and how she deals with her new reality and how it shapes her life and her relationships.
The best part of the book are the relationships between each character. They add so much value, support and are incorporated so seamlessly. The worst, was the ending. It just ends while your heart is racing with trepidation. Bethany, you can’t just leave me hanging. I need to know what happens next… fast!
If you haven’t done so yet, add this book to your TBR pile. I can’t wait to read what happens to Maia next!
January 28, 2022
Freaking Love is a fantastic emotional story of two teens who were convinced that love could get them through anything. An unplanned pregnancy tests that love, and their ability to grow up fast.
Freaking Love is fantastically written. The characters and emotions draw you in and have you captivated throughout the whole novel. Maia is such a strong, independent character that has your cheering for her throughout the whole novel. The support system she has in her family and friends is amazing and you feel like you are right there with them.
Freaking Love is fantastically written. The characters and emotions draw you in and have you captivated throughout the whole novel. Maia is such a strong, independent character that has your cheering for her throughout the whole novel. The support system she has in her family and friends is amazing and you feel like you are right there with them.
January 28, 2022
heart wrenching and heart warming
Bethany Monaco Smith has a way of writing that not only sucks you in but makes you feel the emotions right along with the characters. I ugly cried for Maia and Braden. I loved this story and every single page brought more character development and more backstory. I cannot wait for Part 2 and the saga it holds.
Thank you Bethany, another 1-2 punch to my heartstrings.
Bethany Monaco Smith has a way of writing that not only sucks you in but makes you feel the emotions right along with the characters. I ugly cried for Maia and Braden. I loved this story and every single page brought more character development and more backstory. I cannot wait for Part 2 and the saga it holds.
Thank you Bethany, another 1-2 punch to my heartstrings.
February 5, 2022
So many feelings happened while reading this book. I absolutely love this coming of age romance that is definitely not the end but just the beginning. The cliff that you are left on is hard however you know it is for the best at the time. I cannot wait to see where this story goes. I absolutely love these characters and hope I am right about some of my guesses because right now she deserves a bit better than what she is getting.
January 27, 2022
Oh my, this book took me on an emotional roller coaster. I loved how real this felt and I liked that you get to see all that the two teens go through. This ending wrecked me and I NEED part two like right now. I can't wait to see where the story goes and get back to these amazing characters!
February 3, 2022
((NO SPOILERS!)) I absolutely love this book (and I am anxiously waiting for the rest of the series). I love the author's writing style and these characters are like coming home to your best friends and family. They are honest and real.
April 7, 2022
Wow , wow , wow I went through a whole box of tissues 🖤this book was so well written, it was so moving , emotional . The whole pregnancy at such a young age really makes you think and feel the struggles she went through physically and emotionally . Very well done!
August 10, 2022
Holy wow 😯 this book had you feeling all types of emotions and I grew to hate Braden a lot. This was an intense read and I can’t wait to read part 2
October 20, 2024
Did a reread so I could write a review….
Maia and Braden pulled at something in my heart strings. While I didn’t get pregnant in high school I did have a baby young and I praise Jesus everyday that I got the supportive partner I did.
Maia reminds me a lot of myself a ferocious mama bear who would stop at nothing to protect her child even before they’re born. She’s soft hearted and steadfast and loves and protects when she needs to.
Braden is going to have to have a serious redemption arc for me to even halfway like him again. So we shall see. I can’t wait to reread the rest of the series as it’s been so long since I read the books that I don’t remember what happens.
The story is written beautifully and I can’t wait to love on these characters some more.
Maia and Braden pulled at something in my heart strings. While I didn’t get pregnant in high school I did have a baby young and I praise Jesus everyday that I got the supportive partner I did.
Maia reminds me a lot of myself a ferocious mama bear who would stop at nothing to protect her child even before they’re born. She’s soft hearted and steadfast and loves and protects when she needs to.
Braden is going to have to have a serious redemption arc for me to even halfway like him again. So we shall see. I can’t wait to reread the rest of the series as it’s been so long since I read the books that I don’t remember what happens.
The story is written beautifully and I can’t wait to love on these characters some more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2024
Wild
What a wild ride! I absolutely love the relationships among characters! Maia and Braden are teenagers facing adult situations and Bethany Monaco Smith wrote their perceptions perfectly. Very sweet and angsty.
What a wild ride! I absolutely love the relationships among characters! Maia and Braden are teenagers facing adult situations and Bethany Monaco Smith wrote their perceptions perfectly. Very sweet and angsty.
June 28, 2024
Not great flow. Quite a bit of repetitive inner dialog.
February 14, 2025
“It’s not being naggy. And you are well within your rights to not want him to drink. Especially considering that the last time he got all drinky-drinky he turned into an assy-assy.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2025
I just think i was way to cheesy…. Sorry!
April 13, 2022
This story really sucked me in right away. Finding out she’s pregnant throws 17-year-old Maia’s life plans into chaos, and despite panic attacks and worries, she handles everything in as strong and forthright a manner as she can. I liked that she knew what she wanted and was willing to fight to do things her way.
I love all of Maia’s friends (except for Braden) and family. This girl has the most loyal, supportive, and selfless friends and family that anyone could wish for. Her friends are more like family in their devotion to each other.
One issue I had with the story is that right from the start, Maia is worried about how her boyfriend (and the love of her life since she was six years old) Braden will take the news that she’s pregnant. We are told, repeatedly, that he’s rather immature and lazy—that he dodges responsibilities. But then, at least initially, he doesn’t seem to freak out at the news and steps up to be in this parenting thing with Maia. Eventually, his attempts to do the right thing will give way to his fears and this causes much of the book’s conflict, but before that happens, we only have Maia’s worries as proof there’s anything to be worried about and so when those don’t pan out at first, it feels a little hollow and low stakes. I wish the book had started just before Maia found out she was pregnant so we could have seen her and Braden together, happy and in love—feeling like soul mates, but also to see some of his irresponsibilness. It would have been good to know how Maia felt about him dodging work or some other duty before it had real consequences for her. It also would have made her fears about how he’d react when she got pregnant more real for me, as a reader, too.
The other issue I had with the story is that there didn’t feel like much of a story—things happen, but I’m not sure what the point was. I didn’t feel that Maia learned anything or changed in any meaningful way (aside from becoming a mother). I didn’t notice any growth in her—it wasn’t a story of being unsure she could be a mother and then finding her strength (she already believed in herself), nor was it about being alone and learning to trust people and creating a support system (everyone is supportive immediately, or nearly immediately).
Yet, the writing is so strong that they story is propulsive. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. The characters are so well written that I want to know more about them and what will happen to them.
This is not a romance. It would say this is more a love story, more a coming of age teen drama—for older teens and adults (the characters do have sex, and while not explicit, it’s not closed-door).
I love all of Maia’s friends (except for Braden) and family. This girl has the most loyal, supportive, and selfless friends and family that anyone could wish for. Her friends are more like family in their devotion to each other.
One issue I had with the story is that right from the start, Maia is worried about how her boyfriend (and the love of her life since she was six years old) Braden will take the news that she’s pregnant. We are told, repeatedly, that he’s rather immature and lazy—that he dodges responsibilities. But then, at least initially, he doesn’t seem to freak out at the news and steps up to be in this parenting thing with Maia. Eventually, his attempts to do the right thing will give way to his fears and this causes much of the book’s conflict, but before that happens, we only have Maia’s worries as proof there’s anything to be worried about and so when those don’t pan out at first, it feels a little hollow and low stakes. I wish the book had started just before Maia found out she was pregnant so we could have seen her and Braden together, happy and in love—feeling like soul mates, but also to see some of his irresponsibilness. It would have been good to know how Maia felt about him dodging work or some other duty before it had real consequences for her. It also would have made her fears about how he’d react when she got pregnant more real for me, as a reader, too.
The other issue I had with the story is that there didn’t feel like much of a story—things happen, but I’m not sure what the point was. I didn’t feel that Maia learned anything or changed in any meaningful way (aside from becoming a mother). I didn’t notice any growth in her—it wasn’t a story of being unsure she could be a mother and then finding her strength (she already believed in herself), nor was it about being alone and learning to trust people and creating a support system (everyone is supportive immediately, or nearly immediately).
Yet, the writing is so strong that they story is propulsive. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. The characters are so well written that I want to know more about them and what will happen to them.
This is not a romance. It would say this is more a love story, more a coming of age teen drama—for older teens and adults (the characters do have sex, and while not explicit, it’s not closed-door).
May 6, 2022
Honestly what a perfect title! Because... Freaking Love! Its happy and sad. It's easy and it's hard. It's all consuming, its unconditional, sometimes heartbreaking! Love comes in so many shapes and forms! We don't always agree with how someone shows their love. Or doesn't show it. But love has no boundaries. It's a father supporting his teenage daughter unconditionally through one of the hardest things a teenager in highschool could go through. A teen pregnancy. No questions asked. It's a mother making mistakes, acting first instead of thinking on it and showing that same teenage daughter hard love because they wanted better for you than what they went through. But then taking the time to sort out her own grief and be there to support her daughter. It's highschool sweethearts wanting to be everything each other wants and needs and doing their best at a young age. It's two high school boys loving their father unconditionally despite all of the big emotions they feel for him & his inability to show up for them.
Its friends and family showing up for you. Rallying around you & holding you up duringn the most difficult times. And sometimes love is walking away.
It parents and children. Its friends. Its brothers and sisters. Love is beautiful. Its raw and real and sometimes ugly. And this big is full of it.
Part 1 is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I thought like most with all the different characters and stories within the story that I would be confused. But they all intermix and honestly the story is so good. I fell in love with Maia from the beginning. For 17 she is so strong, determined and so freaking selfless. Which is something that not many 17 year old possess. But to see her rise to her challenges while supporting those around her is so beautiful.
Yes it leaves you on a cliffhanger because keep in mind it is a 3 part book! But it is so freaking worth it! 5 stars from me!
Its friends and family showing up for you. Rallying around you & holding you up duringn the most difficult times. And sometimes love is walking away.
It parents and children. Its friends. Its brothers and sisters. Love is beautiful. Its raw and real and sometimes ugly. And this big is full of it.
Part 1 is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I thought like most with all the different characters and stories within the story that I would be confused. But they all intermix and honestly the story is so good. I fell in love with Maia from the beginning. For 17 she is so strong, determined and so freaking selfless. Which is something that not many 17 year old possess. But to see her rise to her challenges while supporting those around her is so beautiful.
Yes it leaves you on a cliffhanger because keep in mind it is a 3 part book! But it is so freaking worth it! 5 stars from me!
May 29, 2022
3.5 stars
Freaking Love, Part one, First Love is obviously the beginning of the Freaking Love Series by Bethany Monaco Smith. This book starts with Maia Barone, the main character, finding out she's pregnant at seventeen. She's used to being the responsible, hardworking girl, thriving for success and she can't believe she ended up the cliché silly girl that got pregnant in high school, despite being on birth control. She's also terrified that these news will shatter her relationship with Braden, her first love. They've been in love since they were six but only started officially dating at thirteen. Maia always thought she and Braden would be the first loves that go the distance, but will their love be strong enough to handle this curve ball?
Bethany Monaco Smith introduced a wonderful set of characters in this series; I loved Maia's courage, Vince's quiet strength and Leigh was just a force to be reckoned with. However, I hated Braden's character! I just wanted to keep on smacking him, and I couldn't relate to how Maia kept giving him more chances. Overall, albeit the writing was solid, and there were some funny moments in the book, me heart just wasn't in it... At 32 years old, I'm probably not the target audience for this book and I just missed the appeal of this one. However, I've already started reading Freaking Love: Part two and I'm hopeful the story will hook me more. Stay tuned for my next review ;)
Freaking Love, Part one, First Love is obviously the beginning of the Freaking Love Series by Bethany Monaco Smith. This book starts with Maia Barone, the main character, finding out she's pregnant at seventeen. She's used to being the responsible, hardworking girl, thriving for success and she can't believe she ended up the cliché silly girl that got pregnant in high school, despite being on birth control. She's also terrified that these news will shatter her relationship with Braden, her first love. They've been in love since they were six but only started officially dating at thirteen. Maia always thought she and Braden would be the first loves that go the distance, but will their love be strong enough to handle this curve ball?
Bethany Monaco Smith introduced a wonderful set of characters in this series; I loved Maia's courage, Vince's quiet strength and Leigh was just a force to be reckoned with. However, I hated Braden's character! I just wanted to keep on smacking him, and I couldn't relate to how Maia kept giving him more chances. Overall, albeit the writing was solid, and there were some funny moments in the book, me heart just wasn't in it... At 32 years old, I'm probably not the target audience for this book and I just missed the appeal of this one. However, I've already started reading Freaking Love: Part two and I'm hopeful the story will hook me more. Stay tuned for my next review ;)
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