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October Breezes #1
October Breezes
Skye Williams knows everything there is to know about Dad skipped out when she was five, leaving Mom with an angry daughter and an upside-down mortgage. Then there were the boyfriends—at least a dozen—hot on his heels and hot for her mom, none of whom stuck around long enough to figure out Skye hated them—hated the underage toys they brought as bribes and the way they looked at her, speeding past with the same distaste they would have for a yellow traffic light. And now this Warren Jacobs has shown up to sweep Mom off her feet—and all he’s brought with him is a crummy, dog-eared book. She doesn’t even read! How can Mom even like this guy, much less trust him? He’s just another loser with a capital L. But Warren’s not the only concern rocking Skye’s world. Devin Abbott, a guy she’s known since kindergarten, has changed. Almost at once, he’s become this tall, broad-shouldered guy with dark hair and easy eyes she might date—if he hadn’t always been her best friend. Skye swears there’s nothing between them, but everyone else thinks differently. Devin doesn’t act the way he used to, especially when Kellin Morgan, senior quarterback, asks Skye out. Flattered, she accepts, and, Devin sulls up—and he isn’t the only one. Kellin’s best friend, Tyler Rutherford, gets bent out of shape, too, as he’s always wanted Skye for himself. When Kellin and Skye attend one of Tyler’s famous parties, neither senses the impending disaster. Afterwards Skye is left with consequences that will change not only her life but also that of everyone who loves her. Editorial Review October Breezes is a great YA book that has some pretty serious topics. I kinda knew where the story was going but that didn't make it any less interesting. I'll start with the characters. Though I felt Skye could be way immature at times, she is slightly complex, and is definitely dealing with major issues throughout the book. I felt for her, and what she was going through. Devin was Skye's "Ducky". If you've seen Pretty in Pink then you know exactly what I'm talking about. He played the best friend that secretly, but obviously in love with Skye. Now for the story...wow! Like I mentioned earlier it was similar to Pretty in Pink, just more tragic. The whole them versus us was in play throughout the whole book. Kellin and Tyler are in a totally different circle that Skye and Devin are in, so when Kellin asks Skye out people start talking, and wondering what's the catch. --Coffee Books and Laundry Blogspot
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
June 22, 2011
October Breezes made me lose all my sleep last night..but was it worth it? Of course. October Breezes touches on some very..well touchy subjects. Now I would imagine for an author to write about these touchy subjects they would have to be much more careful with their writing and keep it tasteful..and can I just say that Maria Rachel Hooley does an amazing job at this? I could not put this book down! The story starts with Skye, Skye is a normal 16 yr old girl, but she has trust issues with men...and why shouldn’t she? Her father dipped out of her life when she was a child...he never even sees her now..and now she has her moms new boyfriend Warren trying to come into her and her moms life..saying he is different but Skye knows better..or does she? As if her moms boy troubles aren’t enough Skye's best guy friend Devin is starting to act very strange, ever since handsome quarterback Kellin asks Skye out..and she says yes. Devin doesn’t trust him and their friendship slowly falls apart....soon enough Skye will find out Devin and Kellin are the least of her worries..Kellins 'best friend' Tyler wants her too..and he's wanted her for awhile..and Devin nor Kellin are gonna stop him from getting what he wants.
This book was very beautifully and pleasantly written, I found myself drawn in by Skye, you couldn't help but feel sorry for her for all of her horrible events happening lately, you honestly just wish you could be there and give her a freaking hug, and punch all her enemies in the face. I loved all of the characters, they were all very well developed threw out the story, they all grew which was nice to see, Devin and Kellin and Jimmy I especially loved, they were so cute sounding and so sweet to Skye and just wanted to help her.
The ending to this book did not disappoint and I look forward to reading Summer Sunsets and hearing more about Skye and Devin's relationship threw Devin's eyes (:
-COMPLAINT: Skye in the beginning..is very rude..and obnoxious..and annoying..I am so glad she changed her attitude or I probably wouldn't wanna pickup the second one..I have already bought the second one (:
-PS: This book is REALLY cheap on Amazon Kindle! Great Price for an even greater book!!
This book was very beautifully and pleasantly written, I found myself drawn in by Skye, you couldn't help but feel sorry for her for all of her horrible events happening lately, you honestly just wish you could be there and give her a freaking hug, and punch all her enemies in the face. I loved all of the characters, they were all very well developed threw out the story, they all grew which was nice to see, Devin and Kellin and Jimmy I especially loved, they were so cute sounding and so sweet to Skye and just wanted to help her.
The ending to this book did not disappoint and I look forward to reading Summer Sunsets and hearing more about Skye and Devin's relationship threw Devin's eyes (:
-COMPLAINT: Skye in the beginning..is very rude..and obnoxious..and annoying..I am so glad she changed her attitude or I probably wouldn't wanna pickup the second one..I have already bought the second one (:
-PS: This book is REALLY cheap on Amazon Kindle! Great Price for an even greater book!!
February 20, 2015
This book is amazing. It’s an extremely powerful, emotional and heartbreaking story. The author handled three very sensitive issues with great, well, sensitivity, which marks her as an excellent author.
I absolutely loved the characters especially Jimmy and Warren, they were a great supporting characters.
It’s something I would let my daughter read when she's old enough. This can be used as good teaching tool for parents and young women.
I absolutely loved the characters especially Jimmy and Warren, they were a great supporting characters.
It’s something I would let my daughter read when she's old enough. This can be used as good teaching tool for parents and young women.
November 6, 2012
WARNING: READ THIS BOOK @ YOUR OWN RISK...
I should have paid closer attention to the reviews. At first, I thought this was a "YA-PARANORMAL-LOVE-TRIANGLE-ROMANCE" type of book. I mean, I couldn't really tell from the description.
I WAS SO WRONG.
The book was too extreme for me. Dealt with really sensitive issues, but lacked depth. The characters seemed TOO one-dimensional, and there's no growth for Skye's character. There's also no solid explanation for Tyler's behavior- the "reason/explanation" from the book wasn't enough for me. He's just a high-school kid! It just wasn't believable. Also, I think Jimmy's character should have been more developed, or at least his connection/friendship with Skye. And, Skye and Devin's relationship was disappointing. Not what I had expected. It was frustrating and very complicated, there were too many misunderstandings. It all just felt odd and contrived to me. All in all, I wouldn't recommend. It wasn't worth the money or time. Ugh.
I should have paid closer attention to the reviews. At first, I thought this was a "YA-PARANORMAL-LOVE-TRIANGLE-ROMANCE" type of book. I mean, I couldn't really tell from the description.
I WAS SO WRONG.
The book was too extreme for me. Dealt with really sensitive issues, but lacked depth. The characters seemed TOO one-dimensional, and there's no growth for Skye's character. There's also no solid explanation for Tyler's behavior- the "reason/explanation" from the book wasn't enough for me. He's just a high-school kid! It just wasn't believable. Also, I think Jimmy's character should have been more developed, or at least his connection/friendship with Skye. And, Skye and Devin's relationship was disappointing. Not what I had expected. It was frustrating and very complicated, there were too many misunderstandings. It all just felt odd and contrived to me. All in all, I wouldn't recommend. It wasn't worth the money or time. Ugh.
March 7, 2011
I admire writers who have courage, and Maria Rachel Hooley definitely has courage. She takes on powerful topics – rape, abortion, suicide – and keeps a compassionate pen in their depiction. She also manages to give space to many of the different sides of an issue without taking a side. That is a difficult feat — one in which the author must disappear as much as possible into the book.
Plot: Main character Skye and her best friend Devin are at a crossroads when Skye begins to date a popular guy on the football team. Skye is also wrestling with her mother’s new boyfriend and her feelings of anger toward the father who walked out on her. Devin, like her father, walks out on her when he disapproves of her choices.
Setting: High school, and this is high school as I remember it, with all of the cliques, yet a good deal of the cross-over. By that I mean that Skye is not one of the popular crowd, yet several popular boys are interested in her. In many books, the groups do not intersect, but in most high schools it seems that they do. We also have Becca, the queen bee mean girl in school, who has her own reasons for her actions.
Characters: I really liked Skye and found her reactions to be very true to how many teenage girls might act in her situation. Hooley does a good job of showing her distrust of her mother’s new boyfriend, and her difficulty accepting that someone cares about her. The dynamic between Skye and her mother is also well done. The football players, happily, do not all fall into stereotypical boxes. The only character that I found myself disliking was Devin — he seemed paternalistic and down the nose to Skye; instead of being a true friend, he walks out on her when he doesn’t like what she does. Unfortunately, his warnings have a ring of truth to them and Skye does find herself in a terrible situation. Because Hooley’s hand is so invisible in the writing, I couldn’t fault her for the paternalistic Devin; it’s impossible to tell if he’s being presented as the typical perfect male best friend, or if he is dealing with his own shortcomings.
Style: Well done, good writing for Y/A. Good “voice.” Some typos.
Overall Impression: Four stars. An excellent read for middle- to older-young adults and adults who enjoy reading young adult literature. A brave book.
Plot: Main character Skye and her best friend Devin are at a crossroads when Skye begins to date a popular guy on the football team. Skye is also wrestling with her mother’s new boyfriend and her feelings of anger toward the father who walked out on her. Devin, like her father, walks out on her when he disapproves of her choices.
Setting: High school, and this is high school as I remember it, with all of the cliques, yet a good deal of the cross-over. By that I mean that Skye is not one of the popular crowd, yet several popular boys are interested in her. In many books, the groups do not intersect, but in most high schools it seems that they do. We also have Becca, the queen bee mean girl in school, who has her own reasons for her actions.
Characters: I really liked Skye and found her reactions to be very true to how many teenage girls might act in her situation. Hooley does a good job of showing her distrust of her mother’s new boyfriend, and her difficulty accepting that someone cares about her. The dynamic between Skye and her mother is also well done. The football players, happily, do not all fall into stereotypical boxes. The only character that I found myself disliking was Devin — he seemed paternalistic and down the nose to Skye; instead of being a true friend, he walks out on her when he doesn’t like what she does. Unfortunately, his warnings have a ring of truth to them and Skye does find herself in a terrible situation. Because Hooley’s hand is so invisible in the writing, I couldn’t fault her for the paternalistic Devin; it’s impossible to tell if he’s being presented as the typical perfect male best friend, or if he is dealing with his own shortcomings.
Style: Well done, good writing for Y/A. Good “voice.” Some typos.
Overall Impression: Four stars. An excellent read for middle- to older-young adults and adults who enjoy reading young adult literature. A brave book.
August 7, 2016
Qué manera de llorar con los últimos capítulos!
November 22, 2017
3/5: Nada como leerlo en ocutbre, pero bueeno lo que más me ha gustado del libro han sido Warner y Jimmy, creo que Warner tuvo mucha paciencia. Y Jimmy es un amor <3 Aunque en muchos momentos comprendí a Skye, ella fue muy frustrante
April 12, 2012
I started out with a good mind to give this book a 4. But that would be unfair, wouldn't it? I mean just because I went through an entire box of Kleenex doesn't mean that it was a bad book. In fact, it actually means it was an AMAZING book, if it got me, the ice queen, to bawl.
October Breezes is a very touchy book. Being a girl, I was just SO angry for Skye, and what she had to go through. I mean, no one deserves that to happen to them. Not fictional characters, not even my worst enemy. It was just so unfair how everyone kept judging her for her choice. This book made me realize a lot of things. Being pro-choice and all that, it only helped solidify my opinions. Yes, abortion is cruel, but sometimes it's the only choice. If Skye had carried to term, and given her baby up for adoption, would that have been any easier for her? Would it rid her of the feeling of being defiled by such a VILE creature?
I just identified SO much with Skye, of course, not because I've experienced what she has, because if I did, I'd be dead by now, but because I FELT what she was going through. Maria Hooley has done a PHENOMENAL job in writing this extremely beautiful, yet tragic and frightening story. It deserves not 5 stars, but a million, and is a must-read for EVERY girl out there.
October Breezes is a very touchy book. Being a girl, I was just SO angry for Skye, and what she had to go through. I mean, no one deserves that to happen to them. Not fictional characters, not even my worst enemy. It was just so unfair how everyone kept judging her for her choice. This book made me realize a lot of things. Being pro-choice and all that, it only helped solidify my opinions. Yes, abortion is cruel, but sometimes it's the only choice. If Skye had carried to term, and given her baby up for adoption, would that have been any easier for her? Would it rid her of the feeling of being defiled by such a VILE creature?
I just identified SO much with Skye, of course, not because I've experienced what she has, because if I did, I'd be dead by now, but because I FELT what she was going through. Maria Hooley has done a PHENOMENAL job in writing this extremely beautiful, yet tragic and frightening story. It deserves not 5 stars, but a million, and is a must-read for EVERY girl out there.
February 13, 2012
I had a lot strong mixed emotions reading this book some good some bad. So here is a break down of what was good about this book and what left me cringing.
What I liked:
-Great concept and idea
-tackles some very sensitive issues that some authors may shy away from
-the second half of the book was heart wrenching, I couldn't get through a page without crying and i normally don't get very emotional during books or movies, but if an author can get such a strong reaction from me then they have done a good job well
-Loved Warren and Jimmy Sorenson
What I didnt like:
-all the characters, at some point or another really pissed me off. The main character makes a lot of dumb choices during the first half (the one that really made me angry was the fact that a girl so afraid abandonment, abandons her best friend, someone who's always been there for her, at the drop of a hat just because some cute football player shows some interest in her).
-I did not like Devin's treatment of Skye in the second half of the
book.
-Every student in their high school seems to be a completely insensitive asshole
Overall I think this book is at about a 2.8.
What I liked:
-Great concept and idea
-tackles some very sensitive issues that some authors may shy away from
-the second half of the book was heart wrenching, I couldn't get through a page without crying and i normally don't get very emotional during books or movies, but if an author can get such a strong reaction from me then they have done a good job well
-Loved Warren and Jimmy Sorenson
What I didnt like:
-all the characters, at some point or another really pissed me off. The main character makes a lot of dumb choices during the first half (the one that really made me angry was the fact that a girl so afraid abandonment, abandons her best friend, someone who's always been there for her, at the drop of a hat just because some cute football player shows some interest in her).
-I did not like Devin's treatment of Skye in the second half of the
book.
-Every student in their high school seems to be a completely insensitive asshole
Overall I think this book is at about a 2.8.
August 16, 2011
It was so hard for me to read this book.
I don't want to spoil October Breezes for those who consider reading it but you need to know there are some heavy themes in this book like rape, abortion,extreme bullying in school and a suicide attempt.
This is really good book, but it isn't the kind of book I would ever say I "enjoyed", because its an extremely sad story. I didn't like the story, but there was a very loud message being said through the story, and the message is a good one. Throughout the book, I found myself on the edge of my seat, worrying for Skye, and wanting to punch Becca in the face.
I think this is a good book for teenagers. They need to understand how much impact their word or actions have on other people especially if it involves bullying.
I am only giving it 4 stars cause maybe Summer Sunsets will be better,
I don't want to spoil October Breezes for those who consider reading it but you need to know there are some heavy themes in this book like rape, abortion,extreme bullying in school and a suicide attempt.
This is really good book, but it isn't the kind of book I would ever say I "enjoyed", because its an extremely sad story. I didn't like the story, but there was a very loud message being said through the story, and the message is a good one. Throughout the book, I found myself on the edge of my seat, worrying for Skye, and wanting to punch Becca in the face.
I think this is a good book for teenagers. They need to understand how much impact their word or actions have on other people especially if it involves bullying.
I am only giving it 4 stars cause maybe Summer Sunsets will be better,
August 1, 2012
I started this book yesterday and after reading half of it i couldn't sleep. I just kept thinking about Skye and everything she went through. I can't say i enjoyed this book. I was just sad throughout the whole thing and that's why i gave it 5 stars because it made me feel so much for the characters, even Skye who at first i thought was naive in the beginning but as the story progressed i felt like i was able to see things through her eyes and it was painful. Hooley touches on a lot of issues and does this beautifully. and even though and that's what makes this a fantastic read.
I can't wait to read the next book.
I can't wait to read the next book.
September 10, 2013
This story was recommended to me by the author herself as one of her favorite books/series she has written to-date. I can say that I am tremendously glad that I read it. Maria Hooley has a writing style that I find very easy to read and her characters are always endearing. I fell in love with this story because some of Skye's issues hit very close to home. The story has a thrilling quality to it that makes you wonder what will happen next. I rated this book a 5/5 because the writer not only touched on some heart-wrenching issues, but she was able to see them through and bring her characters around full circle.
December 15, 2023
24/12/2013
Es tan triste, me ha hecho derramar tantas lágrimas, me ha impactado tanto. Me ha encantado la protagonista, con todas sus decisiones, y sobre todo, con sus agallas para levantarse, aun cuando ella solo piense que va a estar rota por siempre, y que no se merece ser amada. Ella se merece ser amada, y mucho. Y los personajes secundarios, la madre, el padrastro, el mejor amigo... imposible no cogerles afecto. Y las letras de Maria, dolorosas, demoledoras, hermosas en según que momentos. Reales.
27/12/2013
¡Por fin tengo ya mi reseña, pasaros por aquí!
http://mayuamoraprimeravista.blogspot...
¡Nos leemos! ;).
November 12, 2010
For starters, this book was very well written, being that this is a new author that i am not that use to reading from. I loved the story line of this book, but it was a bit to dramatic and at some parts it made me angry that the girl would not speak up about what was going on........but that's just me. :)
September 19, 2011
The main character Skye is a girl full of insecurities and has a lot of anger inside her. When her world turns upside down because of one night at a party,, it all blows up in her face. She learns to let go of her anger and be a better person/
May 2, 2014
Seriously is a completely and Amazing Book, the characters and the story... EVERYTHING is just AWESOME. This book marked my life FOREVER.
May 12, 2012
Skye pissed me off throughout the whole damn book.
I seriously just wanted to punch her in the face oh my god.
I hate this book.
HATE. IT.
I seriously just wanted to punch her in the face oh my god.
I hate this book.
HATE. IT.
November 24, 2012
WoW! all I can is wow. This book is amazing. Maria does a great job dealing with a very difficult subject. I'm so glad I found this book.
August 15, 2013
I'm sorry, but Skye is whiny, annoying, and just plain rude.
February 5, 2019
I believe the way Skye acted was very logical and what would be expected of a girl who went through what she went through.
All the characters made "sense" and were believable in a way, but the one thing I didn't like about this book was Devin.
He was entirely possessive and not what you would expect of a friend you've been with since childhood. A guy came along, and all of a sudden, he was a shitty friend. I was waiting for this realization to finally come to Skye, because anyone with a brain would have seen he was being a gargantuan asshole, but no. The book took a turn and made him the knight and shining armor--a title I wished would have belonged to Jimmy.
I don't mind that him and Skye would end up together (judging by the looks of book 2), I'm sure they would have both grown in 5 years, but I just don't think Devin was the good friend the book made him out to be.
Would I read the 2nd book? Not really. I believe the story ended just where it should have, I'd just live and breathe thinking she ended up with someone more deserving of her. I'm sure years of Devin being in love of her made him that, but his overall persona during the first book just ruined it for me.
Anyway, really great writing for YA! The pacing was logical, kinda slow in the beginning, but bulldozed over the plot twist and what came after. A satisfying read, overall, but it didn't really leave me anything except a lackadaisical attitude for the 2nd book.
3 stars, though. Thanks for the read!
All the characters made "sense" and were believable in a way, but the one thing I didn't like about this book was Devin.
He was entirely possessive and not what you would expect of a friend you've been with since childhood. A guy came along, and all of a sudden, he was a shitty friend. I was waiting for this realization to finally come to Skye, because anyone with a brain would have seen he was being a gargantuan asshole, but no. The book took a turn and made him the knight and shining armor--a title I wished would have belonged to Jimmy.
I don't mind that him and Skye would end up together (judging by the looks of book 2), I'm sure they would have both grown in 5 years, but I just don't think Devin was the good friend the book made him out to be.
Would I read the 2nd book? Not really. I believe the story ended just where it should have, I'd just live and breathe thinking she ended up with someone more deserving of her. I'm sure years of Devin being in love of her made him that, but his overall persona during the first book just ruined it for me.
Anyway, really great writing for YA! The pacing was logical, kinda slow in the beginning, but bulldozed over the plot twist and what came after. A satisfying read, overall, but it didn't really leave me anything except a lackadaisical attitude for the 2nd book.
3 stars, though. Thanks for the read!
July 3, 2018
My rating for this book is 4.0 stars.
Nunca me imagine que ocurriera algo semejante, a penas comencé a leer... pero te empiezan a alertar de que lo peor empieza a venir, de que esto es solo la base para entender el ¿por que? y el ¿como?
Esta chica es realmente muy problematica y esta en ese proceso de madurar y conseguir plantarle cara a la vida. Es un caso que no es aislado a la vida real, no existe una chica sino varias chicas se pasan por la misma situación algunas escogen el camino que Skye o otra viven la vida con Becca.
Son múltiples las reacciones y vivencias de cada persona, en esta ocasión no solo fue lo ocurrido en la fiesta sino también lo que ocurre en las escuelas cuando presenciamos un evento como este, el ser humano nace siento puro, pero dentro de el se empieza a librar la lucha entre el lobo blanco y negro, podemos ser crueles porque esta en nosotros si así lo queremos y aquí se demuestra a lo que las personas llegan por seguir a la manada.
Nunca me imagine que ocurriera algo semejante, a penas comencé a leer... pero te empiezan a alertar de que lo peor empieza a venir, de que esto es solo la base para entender el ¿por que? y el ¿como?
Esta chica es realmente muy problematica y esta en ese proceso de madurar y conseguir plantarle cara a la vida. Es un caso que no es aislado a la vida real, no existe una chica sino varias chicas se pasan por la misma situación algunas escogen el camino que Skye o otra viven la vida con Becca.
Son múltiples las reacciones y vivencias de cada persona, en esta ocasión no solo fue lo ocurrido en la fiesta sino también lo que ocurre en las escuelas cuando presenciamos un evento como este, el ser humano nace siento puro, pero dentro de el se empieza a librar la lucha entre el lobo blanco y negro, podemos ser crueles porque esta en nosotros si así lo queremos y aquí se demuestra a lo que las personas llegan por seguir a la manada.
July 1, 2019
2.5
Creo que podría haber sido una buena historia, una lástima que los temas duros se hayan tratado de manera superficial y los personajes hayan sido un tanto planos.
Creo que podría haber sido una buena historia, una lástima que los temas duros se hayan tratado de manera superficial y los personajes hayan sido un tanto planos.
August 14, 2014
Sometimes nothing is as it seems.
Di “October breezes” mi aveva molto incuriosita la trama ma poi per lungo tempo è rimasto, come al solito, nelle giacenze dei libri da leggere fino a che mi sono detta di prenderlo in mano.
La protagonista indiscussa della storia è Skye Williams una ragazza di sedici anni che il padre ha abbandonato quando era piccola. Incapace di fidarsi degli altri l’unico legame duraturo che ha, oltre alla madre, è quello con Devin Abbott il suo migliore amico che conosce dai tempi dell’asilo.
Le cose con Devin iniziano ad incrinarsi quando Skye decide di accettare l’invito ad uscire di Kellin Morgan, un senior quarterback della squadra di football di cui Devin non si fida per niente. Un altro problema non indifferente è l’entrata in scena di Warren il compagno della madre che vuole sposarla e formare così una famiglia. Skye lo odia e cerca di fare di tutto per allontanarlo.
Ma soprattutto non ha preso in considerazione la rabbia di Becca, la capo cheerleader innamorata di Kellin e Tyler il migliore amico che ad un party daranno il via a una serie di errori che distruggeranno la vita di Skye e Devin. Riusciranno a sopravvivere e a rimanere insieme?
Skye è una protagonista che entra subito in sintonia con il lettore, non solo perché racconta in prima persona la sua storia ma perché è talmente tragica e ricca di sentimento che si è incapaci di non provare simpatia. Skye è arrabbiata con il mondo, si crede immeritevole di essere amata e allontana tutti coloro che cercano di aiutarla e di volerle bene tenendoli a distanza e costruendo un muro impenetrabile intorno a sé. Persino con la madre e con Devin. Continua a mettere alla prova la sua fedeltà certa che anche lui la abbandonerà. Non si rende conto che chi la ama rimane con lei e al suo fianco a rescindere e che le perdonano tutti i suoi errori anche se naturalmente alcuni la segneranno per sempre. Con una soglia del dolore altissima, sopporta delle ferite fisiche con un coraggio ammirevole più di nascondere la verità Skye è una ragazza che sopravvive a una delle scelte più terribili da compiere e anche alla messa in moto di un effetto domino incontrollabile.
Ho semplicemente adorato Devin, un ragazzo da sempre innamorato di Skye che si mette da parte e che cerca in ogni modo di rimanerle al fianco anche se a volte lei è semplicemente troppo da sopportare. Una di quelle che con una sola parola riescono a ferire incontrollabilmente. Ma Devin ha la pelle dura e una pazienza sconfinata. Vorrei avere al mio fianco un ragazzo così che nonostante gli errori di entrambi salva Skye in mille modi diversi sia psicologicamente che fisicamente. Con uno spirito di sacrificio raro da trovare in un ragazzo ci troviamo di fronte non al ragazzo perfetto, ma al tipico ragazzo della porta accanto che commette i suoi sbagli ma che risulta talmente dolce e adorabile che non si può rimanerne indifferenti. E tra l’altro sa anche battersi per proteggere la ragazza che ama. Fantastico!
Warren, il compagno della madre di Skye, è uno dei personaggi più riusciti e risulta il padre che sempre è mancato alla ragazza. Attento, comprensivo, capace di ascoltare, affettuoso per Skye c’è e riesce a farsi amare con i suoi gesti e i suoi discorsi ispirati. Irrinunciabile.
Un altro personaggio che voglio citare e che ha un ruolo importante nel corso della storia è Jimmy Sorenson un membro della squadra di football e un amico per Skye quando non c’è più nessuno.
La bravura della Hooley, di cui mi è molto piaciuto lo stile narrativo, sta nell’avermi fatto cambiare prospettiva, in modo corretto e non per rivoluzioni esagerate, sulla grande antagonista Becca. L’ho molto apprezzato non sempre lo si fa con una tale chiarezza di intenti.
Il libro affronta tematiche importanti e molto serie in modo approfondito e mai scontato. La lotta interiore che sconvolge Skye, le scelte che portano a conseguenze disastrose, il suo bisogno di sentirsi al sicuro e di rimanere lontana da coloro che potrebbero farle del male sono descritti molto bene mettendo in luce come solo una singola azione, andare ad una festa, possa portare ad una tale catastrofe che non poteva essere preveduta.
Le dinamiche della storia sono convincenti, la lettura scorrevole e avvincente e non c’è neanche nulla di banale nel classico cliché del migliore amico innamorato della protagonista. Tutto è ben calibrato tale che la romance non si nota perché il libro parla di ben altro.
Il particolare da tenere in mente è questo. È “To kill a mockingbird” il libro di Harper Lee. Che possiamo considerare una sorta di metafora.
Consiglio vivamente la lettura di “October breezes” non solo perché la Hooley ha fatto un ottimo lavoro ma perché la storia insegna tantissimo. Ulteriore motivo poi è senz’altro Devin che rimarrà nel mio cuore per un bel po’. Unico. Tra l’altro c’è anche il sequel uscito quest’anno. Correte a procurarvelo.
Di “October breezes” mi aveva molto incuriosita la trama ma poi per lungo tempo è rimasto, come al solito, nelle giacenze dei libri da leggere fino a che mi sono detta di prenderlo in mano.
La protagonista indiscussa della storia è Skye Williams una ragazza di sedici anni che il padre ha abbandonato quando era piccola. Incapace di fidarsi degli altri l’unico legame duraturo che ha, oltre alla madre, è quello con Devin Abbott il suo migliore amico che conosce dai tempi dell’asilo.
Le cose con Devin iniziano ad incrinarsi quando Skye decide di accettare l’invito ad uscire di Kellin Morgan, un senior quarterback della squadra di football di cui Devin non si fida per niente. Un altro problema non indifferente è l’entrata in scena di Warren il compagno della madre che vuole sposarla e formare così una famiglia. Skye lo odia e cerca di fare di tutto per allontanarlo.
Ma soprattutto non ha preso in considerazione la rabbia di Becca, la capo cheerleader innamorata di Kellin e Tyler il migliore amico che ad un party daranno il via a una serie di errori che distruggeranno la vita di Skye e Devin. Riusciranno a sopravvivere e a rimanere insieme?
Skye è una protagonista che entra subito in sintonia con il lettore, non solo perché racconta in prima persona la sua storia ma perché è talmente tragica e ricca di sentimento che si è incapaci di non provare simpatia. Skye è arrabbiata con il mondo, si crede immeritevole di essere amata e allontana tutti coloro che cercano di aiutarla e di volerle bene tenendoli a distanza e costruendo un muro impenetrabile intorno a sé. Persino con la madre e con Devin. Continua a mettere alla prova la sua fedeltà certa che anche lui la abbandonerà. Non si rende conto che chi la ama rimane con lei e al suo fianco a rescindere e che le perdonano tutti i suoi errori anche se naturalmente alcuni la segneranno per sempre. Con una soglia del dolore altissima, sopporta delle ferite fisiche con un coraggio ammirevole più di nascondere la verità Skye è una ragazza che sopravvive a una delle scelte più terribili da compiere e anche alla messa in moto di un effetto domino incontrollabile.
Ho semplicemente adorato Devin, un ragazzo da sempre innamorato di Skye che si mette da parte e che cerca in ogni modo di rimanerle al fianco anche se a volte lei è semplicemente troppo da sopportare. Una di quelle che con una sola parola riescono a ferire incontrollabilmente. Ma Devin ha la pelle dura e una pazienza sconfinata. Vorrei avere al mio fianco un ragazzo così che nonostante gli errori di entrambi salva Skye in mille modi diversi sia psicologicamente che fisicamente. Con uno spirito di sacrificio raro da trovare in un ragazzo ci troviamo di fronte non al ragazzo perfetto, ma al tipico ragazzo della porta accanto che commette i suoi sbagli ma che risulta talmente dolce e adorabile che non si può rimanerne indifferenti. E tra l’altro sa anche battersi per proteggere la ragazza che ama. Fantastico!
Warren, il compagno della madre di Skye, è uno dei personaggi più riusciti e risulta il padre che sempre è mancato alla ragazza. Attento, comprensivo, capace di ascoltare, affettuoso per Skye c’è e riesce a farsi amare con i suoi gesti e i suoi discorsi ispirati. Irrinunciabile.
Un altro personaggio che voglio citare e che ha un ruolo importante nel corso della storia è Jimmy Sorenson un membro della squadra di football e un amico per Skye quando non c’è più nessuno.
La bravura della Hooley, di cui mi è molto piaciuto lo stile narrativo, sta nell’avermi fatto cambiare prospettiva, in modo corretto e non per rivoluzioni esagerate, sulla grande antagonista Becca. L’ho molto apprezzato non sempre lo si fa con una tale chiarezza di intenti.
Il libro affronta tematiche importanti e molto serie in modo approfondito e mai scontato. La lotta interiore che sconvolge Skye, le scelte che portano a conseguenze disastrose, il suo bisogno di sentirsi al sicuro e di rimanere lontana da coloro che potrebbero farle del male sono descritti molto bene mettendo in luce come solo una singola azione, andare ad una festa, possa portare ad una tale catastrofe che non poteva essere preveduta.
Le dinamiche della storia sono convincenti, la lettura scorrevole e avvincente e non c’è neanche nulla di banale nel classico cliché del migliore amico innamorato della protagonista. Tutto è ben calibrato tale che la romance non si nota perché il libro parla di ben altro.
Il particolare da tenere in mente è questo. È “To kill a mockingbird” il libro di Harper Lee. Che possiamo considerare una sorta di metafora.
Consiglio vivamente la lettura di “October breezes” non solo perché la Hooley ha fatto un ottimo lavoro ma perché la storia insegna tantissimo. Ulteriore motivo poi è senz’altro Devin che rimarrà nel mio cuore per un bel po’. Unico. Tra l’altro c’è anche il sequel uscito quest’anno. Correte a procurarvelo.
October 19, 2013
Well, well, well. Hasn't it been forever since I've written a review? I think so. I would sit her and write you all the reasons why I haven't written a review, BUUUUT. I'm not about that at the moment. SO! October Breezes. Honestly the cover of this book totally through me off on the book meter. I was so so so so so so so so so wrong about this book in all ways. I will tell you why in a series of numbers. Number One! Before reading the book I did not read the synopsis. Why? Because I honestly just wanted to get over with reading the book. Honestly all I knew was, the girl's name is Skye and her name is Skye. Hehe. Number Two! I honestly thought this book was a fantasy book or something because of the cover. Go look at the cover right now. Okay you see how it looks like a fantasy typa book cover? Like the way her legs are crossed and she's in a semi fetus position. She looks like she has some powers or something. I don't feel like doing this series of numbers thing so I will just explain the plot. So this book is about a girl named Skye, who has a best friend named Devin. Skye and Devin are really close and look out for each other. They are not in the "in crowd", so their kind of outcasts. One day, out of the blue, the cutest guy in school, Warren Jacobs, asks out Skye and that is when the problems really begin! Skye. Skye was your typically quite, shy girl, doesn't know she's pretty but is probably gorgeous girl. Yeah, my thoughts on Skye are that she's a very confused and depressed person. I say this because she went through hell and back, had A LOT of bullets thrown in her life and really kept this all on the inside. I mean the things that Skye goes through are insane and I think she's strong for going through them but then at the same time her character ANNOYED the shit out of me. Like literally, she was annoying, like I knew why, but damn. She just did things that erked me. Devin. Devin was an awesome best friend. Honestly, he seemed like the really tall guy who's like awkwardly cute. And, awkwardly cute in the sense that you don't date him in high school, you date him like mid 20's when he's grown out of his awkwardness and becomes insanely hot with pretty man hands. If you don't know what pretty man hands are, they are the type of hands you just want holding you. PRETTY MAN HANDS. Yeah, but besides his looks, Devin, was the sweetest guy ever. He was just so sweet that I wanted to like have him all to myself, to be my best friend. I think his love for Skye was the most beautiful thing in the whole book. Therefore, I rate him. Warren. Warren was that popular boy in school that every one crushed on and thought was super hot. I am talking captain of the football team, smart and he's rich. Loaded, like big house, nice car to himself, loaded. Okay, so for some mysterious unknown reason Warren decides to like Skye. To be honest I don't really know if he really liked her. Like, I'm not saying it's impossible for outcasts and populars to have an attraction to each other BUT, in this book it's like Warren likes her but he's playing her. Like I was constantly getting that feeling. Any who, Warren and Skye started to date. I didn't like Warren because there was something about him that ticked me off. I don't know what that something is but when I do I'll let you know. Tyler Rutherford. Reader discretion is advised as I will possibly express my thoughts towards him with harsh words. Don't say I didn't warn ya. Tyler was Warren's bestfriend. Ew. He was the most HATED character in the book, by me, forreal. He is pure evil and should be punished for all the evil he had brought into that world. Honestly, I wanted to go into the book and report him myself. Like I STRONGLY DISLIKE Tyler. I hope the caps emphasize my hate. But yeah, I am not even going to go into much detail about him because he is I R R E L E V A N T. Oh man, that was really extra. The other characters are a bit irrelevant too. THE PLOT TWIST. Was insane. Like it caught me off guard, even though I kind of felt it coming. BUT STILL. IN-FREAKING-SANE. Okay, overall the book was cute, and inspiring. Because, it was real and stuff like this happens so I applaud the book for bringing up those issues. I recommend this to all, and I hope yall have a great day, night, afternoon, whatever time your reading this. I send you a wish. Sucha poet.
October 31, 2017
Link: https://holedupinabook.blogspot.com/2...
This series was one of those where I have extremely mixed feelings about. Mainly because I found the books to be pretty much a pity party for Skye and extremely desperate from Devin yet at the same time, somewhat romantic because of the sheer amount of patience that Devin exuded. If it wasn’t for that, I would have given up this book a long time ago.
The first thing that irked me about the book was Skye because she was so oblivious to everything around her and somehow guys would just fall at her feet. She wasn’t even that remarkable or had any redeeming qualities yet right from the beginning, there were clearly three guys vying for her attention. In my head, I was like, okay but other than being “beautiful” (which Skye didn’t even think she was), what was up with her? Nothing. There was pretty much nothing else going about her. The only guy I think make sense in loving her was Devin because they grew up together but for the other two guys, I’m like both of you pretty much spoke 5 words to her and suddenly, you’re both into her like no other. That sort of mentality is something I just don’t get. The author didn’t make Skye out to be this wonderful person either because she was also incredibly awkward, not at all confident and overall just shy. Not to mention, she had major trust issues and would actually push people away with her shitty attitude (i.e. Warren). But again, somehow the guys were just into her. And in the second book where she was still recovering from her past trauma (which totally makes sense) but there’s just so much push and pull going on with her and her inability to have any sort of self-confidence. All I kept reading was “but I’m not good enough”. And I honestly can’t stand characters like that.
As for Devin, Skye’s best friend since forever, was someone who I felt verged on the line between desperate and romantic – I honestly still can’t decide which. In a way, the whole situation in high school was his fault because he left her to deal with her own problems so I can see why he is trying to make up for it now. However, at the same time, his inability to move on was a little annoying as well because literally he only thought about Skye and what she wanted. And he couldn’t take no for answer. There were so many times when Skye was like “no, I’m not good enough” or “no, I can’t deal with this” or whatever, he was like nope, you’re stuck with me. I mean, it’s sweet to see how much he loves her but I feel like there comes a time when you need to realize that the best way to show your love is to give her up because it’s what she either wants or what’s best for her. I don’t think he really understood that. Thankfully, the ending was a happy one but it could’ve easily been a sad one so it was really a luck of the draw.
Finishing these books took a lot of willpower because Skye was just so frustratingly annoying – I can’t stand weak characters with the whole plot as a pity party for said character. I don’t mind weak characters as much if the plot itself was amazing but this wasn’t the case. As stated, I only finished this series because I thought that Devin was somewhat romantic and that both books were quick reads. Honestly I wouldn’t recommend these at all unless you are interested in wallowing through a plot full of grief-ridden people and weak characters.
This series was one of those where I have extremely mixed feelings about. Mainly because I found the books to be pretty much a pity party for Skye and extremely desperate from Devin yet at the same time, somewhat romantic because of the sheer amount of patience that Devin exuded. If it wasn’t for that, I would have given up this book a long time ago.
The first thing that irked me about the book was Skye because she was so oblivious to everything around her and somehow guys would just fall at her feet. She wasn’t even that remarkable or had any redeeming qualities yet right from the beginning, there were clearly three guys vying for her attention. In my head, I was like, okay but other than being “beautiful” (which Skye didn’t even think she was), what was up with her? Nothing. There was pretty much nothing else going about her. The only guy I think make sense in loving her was Devin because they grew up together but for the other two guys, I’m like both of you pretty much spoke 5 words to her and suddenly, you’re both into her like no other. That sort of mentality is something I just don’t get. The author didn’t make Skye out to be this wonderful person either because she was also incredibly awkward, not at all confident and overall just shy. Not to mention, she had major trust issues and would actually push people away with her shitty attitude (i.e. Warren). But again, somehow the guys were just into her. And in the second book where she was still recovering from her past trauma (which totally makes sense) but there’s just so much push and pull going on with her and her inability to have any sort of self-confidence. All I kept reading was “but I’m not good enough”. And I honestly can’t stand characters like that.
As for Devin, Skye’s best friend since forever, was someone who I felt verged on the line between desperate and romantic – I honestly still can’t decide which. In a way, the whole situation in high school was his fault because he left her to deal with her own problems so I can see why he is trying to make up for it now. However, at the same time, his inability to move on was a little annoying as well because literally he only thought about Skye and what she wanted. And he couldn’t take no for answer. There were so many times when Skye was like “no, I’m not good enough” or “no, I can’t deal with this” or whatever, he was like nope, you’re stuck with me. I mean, it’s sweet to see how much he loves her but I feel like there comes a time when you need to realize that the best way to show your love is to give her up because it’s what she either wants or what’s best for her. I don’t think he really understood that. Thankfully, the ending was a happy one but it could’ve easily been a sad one so it was really a luck of the draw.
Finishing these books took a lot of willpower because Skye was just so frustratingly annoying – I can’t stand weak characters with the whole plot as a pity party for said character. I don’t mind weak characters as much if the plot itself was amazing but this wasn’t the case. As stated, I only finished this series because I thought that Devin was somewhat romantic and that both books were quick reads. Honestly I wouldn’t recommend these at all unless you are interested in wallowing through a plot full of grief-ridden people and weak characters.
December 10, 2011
Sometimes nothing is as it seems. That's what I remember
thinking last October--six months that might as well have been a
lifetime ago. That was before I lost my best friend.
after starting out my reading with these words , my thoughts were like .. if this book has the superhero-cute-best friend-death in this book then I'M SO GONNA HATE IT
it turns out i was wrong..
October Breeze by Maria Rachel Hooley turns out to be a really strong book , much stronger and powerful than i had expected .
We come across Skye Williams and how her life has been absolute crap after her dad divorced with her mother and left her . Her attitude throughout the first half ranges from being obnoxious , rebellious , selfish and sometimes annoying . The only person who understands her is her best friend , Devin Abbot :D
they've always been close , infact practically soo close that everyone around them thinks that they
are together - though that's not true , you can clearly see how much Devin loves her and how Skye feels a little same way as well but completely denies it . it's abrupt when the hot-quarterback Kellin Morgan starts noticing Skye and asks her out , to which of course the intelligent Skye agrees :P
at this point of time i'm thinking , that okay so this story is going to be a love triangle or what ?!
but then again i was wrong...
anyway , there is this huge party hosted by Tyler Rutherford ( Kellin's bestfriend ) who had asked Skye out as well until she turned him down ! ( boo-hoo )
that party CHANGED a lot of things ... never did i expect things to turn out the way they did ..
the topic of Rape and Abortion has always been a hoo-haah discussion and when 16-year old Skye has to go through all that , she's plain scared and shattered .
her insecurities , her nightmares , how afraid she was and everything that had happened to affect her and her decisions was understandable . the whole pace of the first half was a bit slow , and when suddenly the climax came up with the 'disastrous-party' you can't help but sympathise with Skye . sure she was stupid and lame even when Devin had clearly warned and begged her not to go , but not only was it a shock to the naive girl but also the reader itself .
i'm not sure about others but it sure as hell affected me ! it was like you're walking in a park and suddenly from out of nowhere a clown-faced stupid prankster comes up and scares the shit out of you . ( not that i reacted in that extreme way )
I loved Devin's character ! i always tend to have a special place for best guy-friends who secretly are in love with the girl-best friend and even though he's usually a shy and calm , he turns all violent and protective when time comes .
though , in this book i was totally in for Jimmy Sorenson ! he came out of nowhere and just won my heart . he came to help Skye out of nowhere and was probably the only reason she could get through what she was going through . okay , maybe not just him ! but this guy deserves some serious credits :D
all in all , I really liked October Breeze :)
i definitely recommend it to all !
infact the book ends at a very positive note which makes you want to read it's sequel , Summer sunsets badly ! :D
thinking last October--six months that might as well have been a
lifetime ago. That was before I lost my best friend.
after starting out my reading with these words , my thoughts were like .. if this book has the superhero-cute-best friend-death in this book then I'M SO GONNA HATE IT
it turns out i was wrong..
October Breeze by Maria Rachel Hooley turns out to be a really strong book , much stronger and powerful than i had expected .
We come across Skye Williams and how her life has been absolute crap after her dad divorced with her mother and left her . Her attitude throughout the first half ranges from being obnoxious , rebellious , selfish and sometimes annoying . The only person who understands her is her best friend , Devin Abbot :D
they've always been close , infact practically soo close that everyone around them thinks that they
are together - though that's not true , you can clearly see how much Devin loves her and how Skye feels a little same way as well but completely denies it . it's abrupt when the hot-quarterback Kellin Morgan starts noticing Skye and asks her out , to which of course the intelligent Skye agrees :P
at this point of time i'm thinking , that okay so this story is going to be a love triangle or what ?!
but then again i was wrong...
anyway , there is this huge party hosted by Tyler Rutherford ( Kellin's bestfriend ) who had asked Skye out as well until she turned him down ! ( boo-hoo )
that party CHANGED a lot of things ... never did i expect things to turn out the way they did ..
the topic of Rape and Abortion has always been a hoo-haah discussion and when 16-year old Skye has to go through all that , she's plain scared and shattered .
her insecurities , her nightmares , how afraid she was and everything that had happened to affect her and her decisions was understandable . the whole pace of the first half was a bit slow , and when suddenly the climax came up with the 'disastrous-party' you can't help but sympathise with Skye . sure she was stupid and lame even when Devin had clearly warned and begged her not to go , but not only was it a shock to the naive girl but also the reader itself .
i'm not sure about others but it sure as hell affected me ! it was like you're walking in a park and suddenly from out of nowhere a clown-faced stupid prankster comes up and scares the shit out of you . ( not that i reacted in that extreme way )
I loved Devin's character ! i always tend to have a special place for best guy-friends who secretly are in love with the girl-best friend and even though he's usually a shy and calm , he turns all violent and protective when time comes .
though , in this book i was totally in for Jimmy Sorenson ! he came out of nowhere and just won my heart . he came to help Skye out of nowhere and was probably the only reason she could get through what she was going through . okay , maybe not just him ! but this guy deserves some serious credits :D
all in all , I really liked October Breeze :)
i definitely recommend it to all !
infact the book ends at a very positive note which makes you want to read it's sequel , Summer sunsets badly ! :D
January 21, 2011
Originally posted on My Blog
October Breezes follows the life of a young high-school girl, Skye Williams, through many of the terrible experiences she goes through. Other key characters include her mom; her mom's fiance, Warren; Her best friend, Devin, her new beau, Kellin; her unlikely ally in all the mess, Jimmy; the girl who wants her boyfriend, Becca; and the guy of her nightmares, Tyler. On the proverbial "high-school food-chain" Skye and Devin rank quite low, so low they don't exist to the "popular crowd". Kellin, Tyler, and Jimmy are all on the football team, and Kevin is the quarterback. Kellin and Jimmy are the opposite of all the stereotypes that just popped into your head. Tyler follows said stereotypes to the dot. Becca is the witch with a capital B who controls the minds and actions of all the girls in the popular crowd, the "queen bee" you could say. Throughout the book Skye runs into problems that threaten to destroy her life, usually caused by Tyler and Becca. Devin tries to warn her, but every time she ignores him they grow farther and farther apart. He doesn't like Kellin, but Kellin isn't the problem, Tyler is. Becca pretty much hates Skye's guts, because she has the guy Becca wants more than anything else.
I'd have to say I see through Devin's perspective the most, if I was asked. I can relate to being in his shoes, trying to stop your close friend from dating a guy that is going to hurt her. I sympathize with Skye, but as I'm not a teenage girl, and have been in almost none of her problems myself, I can't really imagine being in her shoes. This is really good book, but it isn't the kind of book I would ever say I "enjoyed", because its an extremely sad story. I didn't like the story, but there was a very loud message being said through the story, and the message is a good one. Throughout the book, I found myself on the edge of my seat, worrying for Skye, and wanting to punch Becca in the face. The writing is so good, it just drags you right into the story. I couldn't put it down My favorite part of the book was the ending, when we finally learn what the big deal with Becca is, and the couple that should have been together throughout the whole book finally come to terms with their feelings for each other. The ending to the book, was the best part because it ended all the sadness. My least favorite part was all the times Skye was abotu to do something stupid, and I couldn't warn her (I know that makes me sound silly, but its true). I wouldn't ever change anything to the story, it was written perfectly as it should have been, and for that I congratulate Mrs Hooley. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to any and all young adults out there who enjoy reading, and even a lot of those who don't enjoy reading should read it. I would especially recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Jay Asher's Thirteen Reasons Why, or Brian Katcher's Almost Perfect. Thank you to Mrs. Hooley for giving me the chance to read this novel and enjoy it.
-Gavin Chester
October Breezes follows the life of a young high-school girl, Skye Williams, through many of the terrible experiences she goes through. Other key characters include her mom; her mom's fiance, Warren; Her best friend, Devin, her new beau, Kellin; her unlikely ally in all the mess, Jimmy; the girl who wants her boyfriend, Becca; and the guy of her nightmares, Tyler. On the proverbial "high-school food-chain" Skye and Devin rank quite low, so low they don't exist to the "popular crowd". Kellin, Tyler, and Jimmy are all on the football team, and Kevin is the quarterback. Kellin and Jimmy are the opposite of all the stereotypes that just popped into your head. Tyler follows said stereotypes to the dot. Becca is the witch with a capital B who controls the minds and actions of all the girls in the popular crowd, the "queen bee" you could say. Throughout the book Skye runs into problems that threaten to destroy her life, usually caused by Tyler and Becca. Devin tries to warn her, but every time she ignores him they grow farther and farther apart. He doesn't like Kellin, but Kellin isn't the problem, Tyler is. Becca pretty much hates Skye's guts, because she has the guy Becca wants more than anything else.
I'd have to say I see through Devin's perspective the most, if I was asked. I can relate to being in his shoes, trying to stop your close friend from dating a guy that is going to hurt her. I sympathize with Skye, but as I'm not a teenage girl, and have been in almost none of her problems myself, I can't really imagine being in her shoes. This is really good book, but it isn't the kind of book I would ever say I "enjoyed", because its an extremely sad story. I didn't like the story, but there was a very loud message being said through the story, and the message is a good one. Throughout the book, I found myself on the edge of my seat, worrying for Skye, and wanting to punch Becca in the face. The writing is so good, it just drags you right into the story. I couldn't put it down My favorite part of the book was the ending, when we finally learn what the big deal with Becca is, and the couple that should have been together throughout the whole book finally come to terms with their feelings for each other. The ending to the book, was the best part because it ended all the sadness. My least favorite part was all the times Skye was abotu to do something stupid, and I couldn't warn her (I know that makes me sound silly, but its true). I wouldn't ever change anything to the story, it was written perfectly as it should have been, and for that I congratulate Mrs Hooley. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to any and all young adults out there who enjoy reading, and even a lot of those who don't enjoy reading should read it. I would especially recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Jay Asher's Thirteen Reasons Why, or Brian Katcher's Almost Perfect. Thank you to Mrs. Hooley for giving me the chance to read this novel and enjoy it.
-Gavin Chester
February 1, 2016
~ 3 stars ~
This book is one of the most emotional books I have read in a while. The topics are just so painful to read about. This book is just so emotional and heartbreaking and at times its almost hard to read on.
This book is about a girl named Skye Williams who knows everything there is to know about mistrust as her dad bailed on her when she was a child. Now her mom has a new boyfriend called Warren Jacobs and things look to be getting serious quite fast. Skye has a hard time trusting people and the only person he has truly let in is her best friend Devin Abbott. When Kellin Morgan asks Skye on a date and she accepts kellin's best friend Tyler Rutherfood is instantly jealous as he has always wanted Skye for himself. When Skye attends one of Tyler's party with Kellin what starts off as a fun night quickly turns into a disaster that will change her life forever.
~ SPOILERS if you haven't read this book dont read any further~
This book is just an emotional rollercoaster going from one heartbreaking event followed by even more pain and torment. This book is such an emotional journey that will stay with you long after you've dead it.
I knew where the book was headed before I started to read it as the description gave away quite a few clues but there are quite a few twist and turns that I didn't expect. Skye is a character that demands sympathy. Her father bailed on her when she was a child leading her to not being able to trust properly in fear of getting hurt and even keeps her best friend at bay at times. Devin is such a good friend he is always looking out for her and puts up with her sometimes childish behaviour as he really cares for her.
The fact that Skye is raped in this book by her boyfriend's best friend at a party is just horrible to read about. I feel so sorry for Skye in this book as she's had so much heartbreak and betrayal and if that wasn't enough, she suddenly find out that she's pregnant. I really liked how Jimmy helped her through this horrible period in her life by just being there for her when she lost her friends and started to be bullied for her decision to have an abortion as news travelled around the school.
What really made me emotional is that her best friend warned her not to go to the party and if she had just listened she might have prevented all her misery and despair. It just makes the book so hard to read as I saw the train wreck waiting to happen. This book also handle the issue of rape well as in some books the issue just isn't handle well at all.
I like the ending how Devin and Skye manage to make up and become friends again. They still have a lot of issues to work out though.
My final reaction to this book is that it was an emotional and heartbreaking read that shows how one bad decision or one terrible moment can change your life forever. This book is just so sad as Skye's trust is broken again and again she feels that the only way out is to commit suicide. However Devin saves her and gives her another chance at life where she can try to heal and be able to trust and live again.
This book is one of the most emotional books I have read in a while. The topics are just so painful to read about. This book is just so emotional and heartbreaking and at times its almost hard to read on.
This book is about a girl named Skye Williams who knows everything there is to know about mistrust as her dad bailed on her when she was a child. Now her mom has a new boyfriend called Warren Jacobs and things look to be getting serious quite fast. Skye has a hard time trusting people and the only person he has truly let in is her best friend Devin Abbott. When Kellin Morgan asks Skye on a date and she accepts kellin's best friend Tyler Rutherfood is instantly jealous as he has always wanted Skye for himself. When Skye attends one of Tyler's party with Kellin what starts off as a fun night quickly turns into a disaster that will change her life forever.
~ SPOILERS if you haven't read this book dont read any further~
This book is just an emotional rollercoaster going from one heartbreaking event followed by even more pain and torment. This book is such an emotional journey that will stay with you long after you've dead it.
I knew where the book was headed before I started to read it as the description gave away quite a few clues but there are quite a few twist and turns that I didn't expect. Skye is a character that demands sympathy. Her father bailed on her when she was a child leading her to not being able to trust properly in fear of getting hurt and even keeps her best friend at bay at times. Devin is such a good friend he is always looking out for her and puts up with her sometimes childish behaviour as he really cares for her.
The fact that Skye is raped in this book by her boyfriend's best friend at a party is just horrible to read about. I feel so sorry for Skye in this book as she's had so much heartbreak and betrayal and if that wasn't enough, she suddenly find out that she's pregnant. I really liked how Jimmy helped her through this horrible period in her life by just being there for her when she lost her friends and started to be bullied for her decision to have an abortion as news travelled around the school.
What really made me emotional is that her best friend warned her not to go to the party and if she had just listened she might have prevented all her misery and despair. It just makes the book so hard to read as I saw the train wreck waiting to happen. This book also handle the issue of rape well as in some books the issue just isn't handle well at all.
I like the ending how Devin and Skye manage to make up and become friends again. They still have a lot of issues to work out though.
My final reaction to this book is that it was an emotional and heartbreaking read that shows how one bad decision or one terrible moment can change your life forever. This book is just so sad as Skye's trust is broken again and again she feels that the only way out is to commit suicide. However Devin saves her and gives her another chance at life where she can try to heal and be able to trust and live again.
May 17, 2013
When I first read the summary in goodread I thought it'd be something normal about high school life and the struggles the main character had to go through. I never knew that it's be about a touchy subject.
Mostly I'm okay with reading touchy subjects since most of them were usually in the past but when I read that it happened in the present I was shocked, angry and sad at the same time. When characters had tragic pasts I can always get over it but with this book I don't think I can.
Hooley did such a great job in writing this book. It made me feel all kinds of emotions for the characters, although this book may seem a little too much for me Ms. Hooley did a good job in writing this book without making the reader feel that much uncomfortable.
In the start of the book I hated how Skye was selfish and inconsiderate but as time continues I can't seem to want to put the book down. Every emotion in this book felt real, every anger, pain, sorrow, love, happiness it was all here. I find myself imagining their world as I live through mine and I thought about al the hardships and struggles Skye had been through. As a girl I know no one deserves that to happen to them, not even the most evil person in the would had to have that to happen to them. This book made me learn a big lesson although at my young age I may not be able to understand things such as rape and abortion but this book taught me things I never knew would be such a big deal. It taught me plenty of things I never would have considered before and it also taught me things I should consider and learn from.
The characters in this book are realistic and I find myself wishing I could learn more about them. Although there were a few things that left me wondering like what happened to Jimmy's parents? Why did he help Skye? I know he was only being a good friend and it was sweet and all but I still wanted to dig into it. I also wondered why Tyler did those things? I get that he liked Skye and was angry that she dated Kellin and not him but still I want to know what got into his brain for doing something stupid and wrong as that. I wanted to know more about Bethany and the parts she partook in the story. I know characters like Bethany, Kelin and Devin were good but I've read plenty of other books to be suspicious of their acts. I also want to know about Skye and Kellin's relationship. I know they didn't end up together but I find myself saying "awww" at some scenes with them. Although I missed them I'm still rooting for Devin on this one! He totally deserved her after all they've been through.
This book is such an amazing read it deserves all 5 stars.
Mostly I'm okay with reading touchy subjects since most of them were usually in the past but when I read that it happened in the present I was shocked, angry and sad at the same time. When characters had tragic pasts I can always get over it but with this book I don't think I can.
Hooley did such a great job in writing this book. It made me feel all kinds of emotions for the characters, although this book may seem a little too much for me Ms. Hooley did a good job in writing this book without making the reader feel that much uncomfortable.
In the start of the book I hated how Skye was selfish and inconsiderate but as time continues I can't seem to want to put the book down. Every emotion in this book felt real, every anger, pain, sorrow, love, happiness it was all here. I find myself imagining their world as I live through mine and I thought about al the hardships and struggles Skye had been through. As a girl I know no one deserves that to happen to them, not even the most evil person in the would had to have that to happen to them. This book made me learn a big lesson although at my young age I may not be able to understand things such as rape and abortion but this book taught me things I never knew would be such a big deal. It taught me plenty of things I never would have considered before and it also taught me things I should consider and learn from.
The characters in this book are realistic and I find myself wishing I could learn more about them. Although there were a few things that left me wondering like what happened to Jimmy's parents? Why did he help Skye? I know he was only being a good friend and it was sweet and all but I still wanted to dig into it. I also wondered why Tyler did those things? I get that he liked Skye and was angry that she dated Kellin and not him but still I want to know what got into his brain for doing something stupid and wrong as that. I wanted to know more about Bethany and the parts she partook in the story. I know characters like Bethany, Kelin and Devin were good but I've read plenty of other books to be suspicious of their acts. I also want to know about Skye and Kellin's relationship. I know they didn't end up together but I find myself saying "awww" at some scenes with them. Although I missed them I'm still rooting for Devin on this one! He totally deserved her after all they've been through.
Some quotes that struck me in the story:
“Maybe because we don’t always recognize the happy moments when we’re in them, so we let them go, thinking the future will be even better—and sometimes it's not.”
“Love isn’t about what we deserve, Skye. It’s a gift. It’s the best thing we can give each other.”
This book is such an amazing read it deserves all 5 stars.
July 7, 2011
Click here to read more YA book reviews at READING, EATING AND DREAMING
Some books make me laugh out loud, some make me cry. Some books receive fist pumps (oh yeah!) and some cause me to roll my eyes and sigh. Some books barely skim the surface of my emotions and some FLIP MY WORLD UPSIDE DOWN! October Breezes by Maria Rachel Hooley falls into the last category.
October Breezes by Maria Rachel Hooley is phenomenal! It tells an extremely powerful, emotional and heartbreaking story.
Don’t judge this book based on its short description because, let me tell you, it doesn’t do this book justice!!! Judge this book based on what I am about to tell you ;) Personally, I am glad Hooley left this description vague because I don’t like when authors give away too much, too soon. I’ll tell you this: October Breezes tackles many pressing issues young adults face. And, in my opinion, if you were told which specific issues, before you read this novel, it would ruin the wonderful element of surprise and take away from your reading experience.
The book summary mainly highlights the supporting story in this novel- the conflict between Skye Williams and Warren Jacobs, her mom’s recent boyfriend. This was the best subplot I have ever read! It’s moving...it’s heartfelt…it’s creative…it brought me to tears! (Okay, I have to tell you my absolute favorite part!! If you haven’t read this book yet, what I am about to say will make very little sense. Don’t worry this isn’t a big spoiler…I am going to choose my wording carefully. But after you read this book, I want you to remember what I am about to say: To Kill a Mockingbird. I am obsessed with every sentence in this book that pertains to this book- the inscription, the struggle and mostly for what it represents).
The plot in October Breezes takes you on an emotional roller coaster ride. It portrays how a single event can have a domino effect and put someone’s life on a complete spiral. It was one of those stories where I couldn’t help but wrap myself into the main character and feel everything Hooley transcribed. This story is disturbing (in a good way)! And, it offers realistic perspective. BRAVO Hooley!
I gave October Breezes by Maria Rachel Hooley 4 STARS. This suspenseful and tragic tale should be read, especially by females!! If you’re in search of a happy, fluffy read this isn’t the book you are looking for. But the next time you are ready to have your world flipped upside down…pick up this book!
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
Some books make me laugh out loud, some make me cry. Some books receive fist pumps (oh yeah!) and some cause me to roll my eyes and sigh. Some books barely skim the surface of my emotions and some FLIP MY WORLD UPSIDE DOWN! October Breezes by Maria Rachel Hooley falls into the last category.
October Breezes by Maria Rachel Hooley is phenomenal! It tells an extremely powerful, emotional and heartbreaking story.
Don’t judge this book based on its short description because, let me tell you, it doesn’t do this book justice!!! Judge this book based on what I am about to tell you ;) Personally, I am glad Hooley left this description vague because I don’t like when authors give away too much, too soon. I’ll tell you this: October Breezes tackles many pressing issues young adults face. And, in my opinion, if you were told which specific issues, before you read this novel, it would ruin the wonderful element of surprise and take away from your reading experience.
The book summary mainly highlights the supporting story in this novel- the conflict between Skye Williams and Warren Jacobs, her mom’s recent boyfriend. This was the best subplot I have ever read! It’s moving...it’s heartfelt…it’s creative…it brought me to tears! (Okay, I have to tell you my absolute favorite part!! If you haven’t read this book yet, what I am about to say will make very little sense. Don’t worry this isn’t a big spoiler…I am going to choose my wording carefully. But after you read this book, I want you to remember what I am about to say: To Kill a Mockingbird. I am obsessed with every sentence in this book that pertains to this book- the inscription, the struggle and mostly for what it represents).
The plot in October Breezes takes you on an emotional roller coaster ride. It portrays how a single event can have a domino effect and put someone’s life on a complete spiral. It was one of those stories where I couldn’t help but wrap myself into the main character and feel everything Hooley transcribed. This story is disturbing (in a good way)! And, it offers realistic perspective. BRAVO Hooley!
I gave October Breezes by Maria Rachel Hooley 4 STARS. This suspenseful and tragic tale should be read, especially by females!! If you’re in search of a happy, fluffy read this isn’t the book you are looking for. But the next time you are ready to have your world flipped upside down…pick up this book!
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
November 12, 2011
What to say? This book certainly had some subject matter that will definitely touch a nerve with readers. I don't want to give away the story so I'll try to make this as spoiler free as I can.
I started out the book not minding Skye. She was obnoxious as some teenagers are but at first I could understand her fears with Warren dating her Mom since her read Dad left when she was younger. Once I got into the story I found myself wanting to slap her for being so stubborn, but at the same time I totally understood her thought process because it was much like my own at points in my life. As I've stated, I don't want to say a lot on the story because I'll give it away. Even though there were some very touchy subjects covered in this book; they were written in a way that any teenager could read and it was tastefully done.
I will say that some parts of this book were very personal for me and I found myself wanting to skip paragraphs because at some points Skye's thinking was so much like my own it was emotionally hard for me to keep reading. If any of the spoilers I mentioned above are a demon of your past, especially the first two listed, it's a good idea to make sure you have as much peace with your situation as possible before you start reading! The part that I related to still haunts me and honestly, this was the most difficult book I've read recently because of the subject.
Anyhow, the book was very well written and it's something I would let my daughter read when she's old enough. Though the subjects covered are very serious, this book can be used as good teaching tool for parents and young women.
I gave the book 5 stars for a few reasons. One was how well the subjects were covered. Two was because even though Skye was a pain in the ass at times, I related to her thought process so well I truly connected with her as a character. She was a completely believable character... when she hurt, I was hurting along with her and that made her so real to me. Lastly, I gave it 5 stars because the message in the book after someone reads it should be loud and clear. Going through tough obstacles alone is never a good idea! When you have friends and family that love you, it's always best to confide in someone no matter the situation. I felt like that message rang loud and clear at the end, hence my 5 stars.
I would certainly recommend this book but will caution that if personal experience weighs in to any of the subjects covered, it may be emotionally hard to get through, but well worth it!
I started out the book not minding Skye. She was obnoxious as some teenagers are but at first I could understand her fears with Warren dating her Mom since her read Dad left when she was younger. Once I got into the story I found myself wanting to slap her for being so stubborn, but at the same time I totally understood her thought process because it was much like my own at points in my life. As I've stated, I don't want to say a lot on the story because I'll give it away. Even though there were some very touchy subjects covered in this book; they were written in a way that any teenager could read and it was tastefully done.
I will say that some parts of this book were very personal for me and I found myself wanting to skip paragraphs because at some points Skye's thinking was so much like my own it was emotionally hard for me to keep reading. If any of the spoilers I mentioned above are a demon of your past, especially the first two listed, it's a good idea to make sure you have as much peace with your situation as possible before you start reading! The part that I related to still haunts me and honestly, this was the most difficult book I've read recently because of the subject.
Anyhow, the book was very well written and it's something I would let my daughter read when she's old enough. Though the subjects covered are very serious, this book can be used as good teaching tool for parents and young women.
I gave the book 5 stars for a few reasons. One was how well the subjects were covered. Two was because even though Skye was a pain in the ass at times, I related to her thought process so well I truly connected with her as a character. She was a completely believable character... when she hurt, I was hurting along with her and that made her so real to me. Lastly, I gave it 5 stars because the message in the book after someone reads it should be loud and clear. Going through tough obstacles alone is never a good idea! When you have friends and family that love you, it's always best to confide in someone no matter the situation. I felt like that message rang loud and clear at the end, hence my 5 stars.
I would certainly recommend this book but will caution that if personal experience weighs in to any of the subjects covered, it may be emotionally hard to get through, but well worth it!
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