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Ford & Elise #1
Finding Me
Elise Riley is the average girl that has never been treated like she was worthy, always second best even by her own mother.
She becomes a victim of a crime committed by one of her closest friends and is shipped off to Humble, Texas to live with her aunt and uncle on the family farm.
She swears that she will never trust another guy that is until she meets Ford.
Ford Kelly is the star running back at Humble High, always treated like he was number one.
Ford lives a life of eat, sleep, and football. He hates it and is starting to struggle from the effects of playing hard his entire life.
The one girl Ford likes seems to reject him at every turn. But when he starts to break down her walls, there are more things standing in their way than he suspected.
Is love worth the risk? Even if it means breaking a promise you made to your best friend? And if it is worth the risk, will you let it happen? Can you get past all the bad things that have happened in your life?
She becomes a victim of a crime committed by one of her closest friends and is shipped off to Humble, Texas to live with her aunt and uncle on the family farm.
She swears that she will never trust another guy that is until she meets Ford.
Ford Kelly is the star running back at Humble High, always treated like he was number one.
Ford lives a life of eat, sleep, and football. He hates it and is starting to struggle from the effects of playing hard his entire life.
The one girl Ford likes seems to reject him at every turn. But when he starts to break down her walls, there are more things standing in their way than he suspected.
Is love worth the risk? Even if it means breaking a promise you made to your best friend? And if it is worth the risk, will you let it happen? Can you get past all the bad things that have happened in your life?
First published April 7, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
April 11, 2016
*I received an ARC from Sassy Savvy Fabulous PR in exchange for an honest review*
Thank you Sassy Savvy Fabulous PR for sending me an ARC of this book!! I'm very honored and grateful!! <3
Happy Release Day Ms.Taylor!! :D
5 Thought provoking Stars!!
I remember reading the blurb for this book and i was instantly curious to find out more about the characters. This story deals with a lot of subjects that aren't often addressed in Romance books and it may be hard for many people to get through reading it if they've dealt or been involved in similar situations but i strongly advise you to keep on reading. Finding Me was short but packed quite an amazing punch. Not only was it sweet but conveyed so many emotions that it was as if i was speaking to the main character and feeling every ounce of hurt or happiness that she felt.
Brooklyn Taylor sparked such an interesting thinking process for me throughout the story. I love it when books make me sit back and question things in my own life. Also, i adore the ones that make me want to be a person that lives life to the fullest in the best way without anything holding me back and this book did just that. Thank you Ms.Taylor for writing something that will be sure to make others hearts clench and make their minds wonder about for hours upon finishing.
Here's one of the many quotes i loved from Finding Me "That was the funny thing about your heart. It picked who it liked."
Elise Riley was a character that made me wish i could jump inside of the book and protect her. I'm very lucky to have never been through what she went through and even though it was a book that fact didn't make the sadness or heartbreak lessen. She was such a sweet and kind character that didn't deserve any terrible hand she was dealt in her life. I rooted for her chapter in and chapter out. I was beyond hopeful to see her live the life she always wanted to even though it was a tough and long hard road to get there. Her relationship with her brother Thad was so heartwarming and every time the two interacted i was left smiling.
Ford Kelly was a character that was so stinking lovable that he quickly became one of my most favorite male characters of all time. I wasn't sure if he was going to do something that made me stop liking him but thankfully that never happened. It stunk knowing he was living a life that was planned by others and not himself. All i could do while reading was cross my fingers that he would finally get the courage to live life his own way and not care what others thought. The way he treated Elise is how every woman should be treated and he has raised the bar for men for me period.
Thad was such an incredible character that did everything in his power to be the best big brother and protector to Elise. Eme was quite a hilarious character and i really adored her friendship with Elise. Shay Hayes was a character that was really unpleasant at first but the more her friendship grew with Elise during the story i started to like her more than i did previously. Elise's Uncle Terry and Aunt Carol were the parents that she deserved and they also showed her so much love as well which instantly made me happy. There are two characters that i despised with every fiber of my being and i don't want to give anything away from those who haven't read the story so i won't name them.
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking for something to read that will make you think, break your heart, and warm it all at the same time. I can promise you that you won't regret reading this book! One-click it today!! Dear lord how i wish i had a boyfriend like Ford and lived in Humble, Texas. 5 Stars all around!! :)
Thank you Sassy Savvy Fabulous PR for sending me an ARC of this book!! I'm very honored and grateful!! <3
Happy Release Day Ms.Taylor!! :D
5 Thought provoking Stars!!
I remember reading the blurb for this book and i was instantly curious to find out more about the characters. This story deals with a lot of subjects that aren't often addressed in Romance books and it may be hard for many people to get through reading it if they've dealt or been involved in similar situations but i strongly advise you to keep on reading. Finding Me was short but packed quite an amazing punch. Not only was it sweet but conveyed so many emotions that it was as if i was speaking to the main character and feeling every ounce of hurt or happiness that she felt.
Brooklyn Taylor sparked such an interesting thinking process for me throughout the story. I love it when books make me sit back and question things in my own life. Also, i adore the ones that make me want to be a person that lives life to the fullest in the best way without anything holding me back and this book did just that. Thank you Ms.Taylor for writing something that will be sure to make others hearts clench and make their minds wonder about for hours upon finishing.
Here's one of the many quotes i loved from Finding Me "That was the funny thing about your heart. It picked who it liked."
Elise Riley was a character that made me wish i could jump inside of the book and protect her. I'm very lucky to have never been through what she went through and even though it was a book that fact didn't make the sadness or heartbreak lessen. She was such a sweet and kind character that didn't deserve any terrible hand she was dealt in her life. I rooted for her chapter in and chapter out. I was beyond hopeful to see her live the life she always wanted to even though it was a tough and long hard road to get there. Her relationship with her brother Thad was so heartwarming and every time the two interacted i was left smiling.
Ford Kelly was a character that was so stinking lovable that he quickly became one of my most favorite male characters of all time. I wasn't sure if he was going to do something that made me stop liking him but thankfully that never happened. It stunk knowing he was living a life that was planned by others and not himself. All i could do while reading was cross my fingers that he would finally get the courage to live life his own way and not care what others thought. The way he treated Elise is how every woman should be treated and he has raised the bar for men for me period.
Thad was such an incredible character that did everything in his power to be the best big brother and protector to Elise. Eme was quite a hilarious character and i really adored her friendship with Elise. Shay Hayes was a character that was really unpleasant at first but the more her friendship grew with Elise during the story i started to like her more than i did previously. Elise's Uncle Terry and Aunt Carol were the parents that she deserved and they also showed her so much love as well which instantly made me happy. There are two characters that i despised with every fiber of my being and i don't want to give anything away from those who haven't read the story so i won't name them.
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking for something to read that will make you think, break your heart, and warm it all at the same time. I can promise you that you won't regret reading this book! One-click it today!! Dear lord how i wish i had a boyfriend like Ford and lived in Humble, Texas. 5 Stars all around!! :)
June 9, 2016
When I won a free copy of Finding Me by Brooklyn Taylor, I had no idea what to expect. The synopsis sounded interesting enough, but little did I know that Elise, her brother Thad, and Ford would grab a hold of me and not let go.
Elise was a young woman who suffered immeasurable loss in her life, starting with her father. Instead of bonding with her mother because of this loss, her mother rejected her. She was little more than an unwanted visitor in her own home. Elise’s brother Thad, on the other hand, was the golden child who could do no wrong. Elise’s only saving grace was the fact that Thad loved his younger sister with all his heart. He was her champion, her best friend, and tended to her needs in ways a parent should.
Just when life couldn’t get more difficult, one of her closest friends betrayed Elise. The betrayal was the kind that should have bonded Elise with her mother; instead, it put an even larger wedge between the two. Her mother banished her from her home and sent her to live with her aunt and uncle. The move proved to be the greatest gift her mom ever gave to Elise.
Elise quickly adjusted to life in her new town. She made friends and caught the eye of Ford, an athlete with family issues of his own. Despite a promise she made to her new friend, Elise and Ford bonded. They gradually developed an affection for one another. Things were improving for Elise until another tragedy befell her. Unlike her mother who turned on her, this time Elise had the love and support she needed.
Finding Me is a book filled with pain, heartache, hope, laughter, and acts of love. There were times I found myself incredibly angry reading this book, then something would happen in Elise’s life and I would smile. My only wish is that the book could have been longer, as I did not want to say goodbye to this group of characters.
Brooklyn Taylor wrote a magnificent story that touched me on so many levels I look forward to reading more of her books.
Elise was a young woman who suffered immeasurable loss in her life, starting with her father. Instead of bonding with her mother because of this loss, her mother rejected her. She was little more than an unwanted visitor in her own home. Elise’s brother Thad, on the other hand, was the golden child who could do no wrong. Elise’s only saving grace was the fact that Thad loved his younger sister with all his heart. He was her champion, her best friend, and tended to her needs in ways a parent should.
Just when life couldn’t get more difficult, one of her closest friends betrayed Elise. The betrayal was the kind that should have bonded Elise with her mother; instead, it put an even larger wedge between the two. Her mother banished her from her home and sent her to live with her aunt and uncle. The move proved to be the greatest gift her mom ever gave to Elise.
Elise quickly adjusted to life in her new town. She made friends and caught the eye of Ford, an athlete with family issues of his own. Despite a promise she made to her new friend, Elise and Ford bonded. They gradually developed an affection for one another. Things were improving for Elise until another tragedy befell her. Unlike her mother who turned on her, this time Elise had the love and support she needed.
Finding Me is a book filled with pain, heartache, hope, laughter, and acts of love. There were times I found myself incredibly angry reading this book, then something would happen in Elise’s life and I would smile. My only wish is that the book could have been longer, as I did not want to say goodbye to this group of characters.
Brooklyn Taylor wrote a magnificent story that touched me on so many levels I look forward to reading more of her books.
March 26, 2016
4.5 Stolen Stars
There are so many things that you can steal. Or have stolen from you. Money. Possessions. Trust. Innocence. The knowledge that you are cared for. Cherished.
Elise has had a lot taken from her. Some things she misses. Some things she never had to lose. She just knows that other people have a things she doesn't. Other people feel loved. Other people feel protected. Elise has only had that in drips and drops when she should have had it in buckets.
Everythng I had, all my innocence had been stolen from me. All my desire to be first best...to be chosen first. Never again would I wish those words.
Ford has had things taken from him too. His loss is one of choice. Self-direction. His father has set the path for Ford and not let him deviate. Football. Football. Football. It is set in Texas after all.
Ford knows that Elise is not whole. He doesn't know why, but he can sense that she is skittish and needs special handling. He knows she needs a safe place. A safe person.
I felt like this place was waiting for me to call it home.
Ms Taylor has given us another emotional Young Adult read that will have you hurting and cheering. She plays with your heart strings. Elise is the worse kind of damaged. The self-aware damaged. She knows what she has lost. And so do you.
There are so many things that you can steal. Or have stolen from you. Money. Possessions. Trust. Innocence. The knowledge that you are cared for. Cherished.
Elise has had a lot taken from her. Some things she misses. Some things she never had to lose. She just knows that other people have a things she doesn't. Other people feel loved. Other people feel protected. Elise has only had that in drips and drops when she should have had it in buckets.
Everythng I had, all my innocence had been stolen from me. All my desire to be first best...to be chosen first. Never again would I wish those words.
Ford has had things taken from him too. His loss is one of choice. Self-direction. His father has set the path for Ford and not let him deviate. Football. Football. Football. It is set in Texas after all.
Ford knows that Elise is not whole. He doesn't know why, but he can sense that she is skittish and needs special handling. He knows she needs a safe place. A safe person.
I felt like this place was waiting for me to call it home.
Ms Taylor has given us another emotional Young Adult read that will have you hurting and cheering. She plays with your heart strings. Elise is the worse kind of damaged. The self-aware damaged. She knows what she has lost. And so do you.
April 11, 2016
Full disclosure – based on the first few “pages” of the book, I almost left it as a DNF. However, in fairness to the author, I pushed through to the end so that I could develop a well-rounded and complete picture.
Though there are many aspects of this book that I did not like, there were many redeeming qualities.This was my first book by Brooklyn Taylor, and I had high hopes based on the description. Though I believe she has talent, I had difficulty getting in to this story, and it has nothing to do with it being YA. Though there are elements to the story that were appealing and I enjoyed, the writing style threw me off more than once and interrupted by ability to delve in to the text.
What I enjoyed about this book:
1. Watching Elise and Ford fall for one another – they are easy together, and it is sweet and innocent.
2. The book stresses the importance of: Liking someone for who they are, and not what they are; Having common ground in order to develop a solid relationship; Being true to yourself and your dreams; Not letting a traumatic event rule one’s life; and Rising above hardship and challenge and coming out stronger.
What I struggled with:
1. Some of the plot felt underdeveloped, such as the issues between Elise and her mother.
2. I would have liked to have seen more relationship development between Ford and Elise. This would have added much needed balance to some of the negative aspects of the story line.
3. Grammatical structure and over-usage of past tense
4. Some scenes felt forced and unnecessary to the plot line, such as the conversation in the locker room about Elise.
It wasn't the worst story I have come across, and it certainly has potential (detail development!).
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Though there are many aspects of this book that I did not like, there were many redeeming qualities.This was my first book by Brooklyn Taylor, and I had high hopes based on the description. Though I believe she has talent, I had difficulty getting in to this story, and it has nothing to do with it being YA. Though there are elements to the story that were appealing and I enjoyed, the writing style threw me off more than once and interrupted by ability to delve in to the text.
What I enjoyed about this book:
1. Watching Elise and Ford fall for one another – they are easy together, and it is sweet and innocent.
2. The book stresses the importance of: Liking someone for who they are, and not what they are; Having common ground in order to develop a solid relationship; Being true to yourself and your dreams; Not letting a traumatic event rule one’s life; and Rising above hardship and challenge and coming out stronger.
What I struggled with:
1. Some of the plot felt underdeveloped, such as the issues between Elise and her mother.
2. I would have liked to have seen more relationship development between Ford and Elise. This would have added much needed balance to some of the negative aspects of the story line.
3. Grammatical structure and over-usage of past tense
4. Some scenes felt forced and unnecessary to the plot line, such as the conversation in the locker room about Elise.
It wasn't the worst story I have come across, and it certainly has potential (detail development!).
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2016
I for one would recommend this book to anyone that wants to read it. this is an amazing book and I would read it again.First and foremost this is my first time reading anything from this author. This author pulls me right into the book. Brooklyn writes very amazing books. When I got to Chapter 3 when she tried to tell her mom that she was raped I had anger. But when I got to the chapter where Thad told her that he had Cancer my heart just broke.This book is very moving and a lot of real world stuff being put into the book. Like a child that is seventeen years old having cancer is very real world stuff and then finding out that the child doesn't have much time to live either. It breaks a readers heart to hear that a child has cancer. As many said you need a box of tissues because you will be crying when you read this powerful book.
February 22, 2020
I cried, so just know that if you don’t want to read a book that makes you cry, don’t read this one!
Anyway, it was a good book even if the ending seemed a little rushed.
Anyway, it was a good book even if the ending seemed a little rushed.
April 18, 2016
I should start this out with a warning of sorts. You should keep some type of tissue or hanky nearby. My best friend Shannon read the book before me. Apparently she opened it up and got lost for three whole hours! Yes, she finished the book in one sitting. She messaged me and asked if I had read it yet. I hadn't, as I fell asleep. But her word for the book is perfect. She tells me, "WOW". After reading the book, I can honestly tell you that it's true. The story of Elise and Ford reached out to me and pulled me in. I have always said that if an author can draw you into the story and keep you there, has done their job. To me, they're rather gifted if they can do that.
Elise's life mirrors the lives of so many of us. For me, it’s as if Brooklyn used some voodoo magic (totally kidding) and peeked inside my heart and drew it all out. I myself faced a lot of issues at the same age as Elise. Right away, I felt connected to her character. She has had to live her entire life with the guilt and abuse her mother brings down on her. She blames her for so many things that have happened to them. She then decides to punish her. Thankfully Elise has her brother Thad to help her through it and shield her. Thad was their mothers “Golden Child” so to speak. Like the blurb on the cover of the book, “She was always second best.” As her story continues she has to face a huge hardship.
She was violated by someone she cared about and that person stripped her of so much. In one moment her world is shattered and she has to deal with it all alone. It’s something that is so raw and so real and happens every day all around the world. Sadly, too many don’t come forward to use their voice and share the trauma with the right people. When she gets the courage to tell her mother what has happened after some verbal war, her mother does the unthinkable. She turns her back and makes things worse. It was at this very moment that I wanted to physically jump into the story and find the mom and set her straight with an action or two. My heart was breaking for Elise, and for all of us survivors. It’s right there that proves what a remarkable story it is.
Elise is sent away to other family so her mother doesn’t have to deal with her or her problems and many more reasons that her imaginative mother comes up with. I’m trying so hard to not give too much away! Elise is in many ways relieved and grateful for the chance to get away. Her Aunt and Uncle draw her in and give her a safe place to live, grow and heal. They understand so much more than her mother and give her the chance to really find herself. There should be more people like them in this world, that’s for sure.
As Elise adjusts and pulls herself together, she meets some great people. She sees how different her new place is from the old. The town is obsessed with football and the stars of the game. One of those people is Ford. His story grabbed me as well. He lives under enormous pressure to be the best. To play the game, and stay. It’s pretty much his Dad living through him. We all know someone who does that right? Ford lives with the pain and the pressure. Between his physical issues and emotional turmoil, he struggles. Even though they are so different in most ways, Elise and Ford have some things in common. They both have survived abuse from a parent.
They continue to grow as individuals and as friends. It’s slow going, but they get there. They have goals to graduate and stay in their small town. They want to find true love and to conquer their issues. While doing all this, they have to deal with more hurdles. One of the biggest hurdles that Elise face s is, using her voice. She finally tells someone about the trauma that happened to her. It’s a milestone in the story for her and for those around her. If I say too much, I’ll give it away!
Ford finds out the truth before she tells him. He has to learn how to understand it and deal. Ford is an amazing character on his own. He has such depth and heart. I wish I could just hug the insides out of him and tell him it’s ok. Do you ever have those moments when you’re reading? I do all the time!
As if they weren’t dealing with enough, Elise is faced with another trauma. It’s something that if she did not have been blessed with relationships that have held in the positive. I can say that this part of their story got to me. I had to put it down and walk away from it for about an hour. I had cried my eyes out for Elise, for myself, and for others. Yes, it was that powerful to me. It’s a trauma that is one of the deepest and darkest to deal with in my opinion. Once I was done with all the blubbering, I finished the story. By the end of it, I had gone through every emotion I had in me. In the end, Elise and Ford come through so much and they do it together. In my honest opinion, they are the epitome of what being a survivor is. I fully admit, I blubbered some more.
As a fellow survivor, this whole story brought out so much in me. I have such empathy for both of them and yup, even love. Have you ever read a book or series that makes you feel so much and the story comes alive? For me it did, it really did.
Like with the majority of my reviews, I try to share what I found to the positives and negatives of the book.
So far the positives:
Obviously, I’ve raved about how much this book spoke to me. It did on so many levels and pulled my heart.
I got lost in their story and lost sleep because I couldn’t put it down. That’s both good and bad right?
Brooklyn captured so much heart, soul and depth in her main characters.
Deep down, they’re amazing people who have survived so much.
I loved the touches of humor and thoughtfulness.
The point of view from both characters was refreshing and added a lot to the story. It wasn’t just one person narrating or sharing. It honestly holds most of the story together. There is no guessing how they felt from another’s point of view.
The negatives for me:
I would have liked to know more about the Aunt and Uncle. They’re also both really unique characters.
Being a survivor, I would have liked to see more consequences for the person who traumatized Keep in mind, that’s the survivor in me talking.
I can tell there might be some good stories behind the supporting characters. I’d like to have a little more insight to them.
I had to change my shirt. I cried so much I messed up the top of my shirt! All that crying and blubbering had me on a search for something clean to put on.
Fair warning: This book can trigger some emotions in you. It can make you to giggle, get angry, ugly cry and cost you money buying more tissues. Forget it; just grab a towel to sop up the left over emotions falling through your peepers! When you sit down to read this, expect a marathon read. Brooklyn captured so much in this book and it will stay with you. Look closely and she’ll show you some powerful messages.
See my review on my blog!
http://chroniclesofanabibliophobiac.b...
Elise's life mirrors the lives of so many of us. For me, it’s as if Brooklyn used some voodoo magic (totally kidding) and peeked inside my heart and drew it all out. I myself faced a lot of issues at the same age as Elise. Right away, I felt connected to her character. She has had to live her entire life with the guilt and abuse her mother brings down on her. She blames her for so many things that have happened to them. She then decides to punish her. Thankfully Elise has her brother Thad to help her through it and shield her. Thad was their mothers “Golden Child” so to speak. Like the blurb on the cover of the book, “She was always second best.” As her story continues she has to face a huge hardship.
She was violated by someone she cared about and that person stripped her of so much. In one moment her world is shattered and she has to deal with it all alone. It’s something that is so raw and so real and happens every day all around the world. Sadly, too many don’t come forward to use their voice and share the trauma with the right people. When she gets the courage to tell her mother what has happened after some verbal war, her mother does the unthinkable. She turns her back and makes things worse. It was at this very moment that I wanted to physically jump into the story and find the mom and set her straight with an action or two. My heart was breaking for Elise, and for all of us survivors. It’s right there that proves what a remarkable story it is.
Elise is sent away to other family so her mother doesn’t have to deal with her or her problems and many more reasons that her imaginative mother comes up with. I’m trying so hard to not give too much away! Elise is in many ways relieved and grateful for the chance to get away. Her Aunt and Uncle draw her in and give her a safe place to live, grow and heal. They understand so much more than her mother and give her the chance to really find herself. There should be more people like them in this world, that’s for sure.
As Elise adjusts and pulls herself together, she meets some great people. She sees how different her new place is from the old. The town is obsessed with football and the stars of the game. One of those people is Ford. His story grabbed me as well. He lives under enormous pressure to be the best. To play the game, and stay. It’s pretty much his Dad living through him. We all know someone who does that right? Ford lives with the pain and the pressure. Between his physical issues and emotional turmoil, he struggles. Even though they are so different in most ways, Elise and Ford have some things in common. They both have survived abuse from a parent.
They continue to grow as individuals and as friends. It’s slow going, but they get there. They have goals to graduate and stay in their small town. They want to find true love and to conquer their issues. While doing all this, they have to deal with more hurdles. One of the biggest hurdles that Elise face s is, using her voice. She finally tells someone about the trauma that happened to her. It’s a milestone in the story for her and for those around her. If I say too much, I’ll give it away!
Ford finds out the truth before she tells him. He has to learn how to understand it and deal. Ford is an amazing character on his own. He has such depth and heart. I wish I could just hug the insides out of him and tell him it’s ok. Do you ever have those moments when you’re reading? I do all the time!
As if they weren’t dealing with enough, Elise is faced with another trauma. It’s something that if she did not have been blessed with relationships that have held in the positive. I can say that this part of their story got to me. I had to put it down and walk away from it for about an hour. I had cried my eyes out for Elise, for myself, and for others. Yes, it was that powerful to me. It’s a trauma that is one of the deepest and darkest to deal with in my opinion. Once I was done with all the blubbering, I finished the story. By the end of it, I had gone through every emotion I had in me. In the end, Elise and Ford come through so much and they do it together. In my honest opinion, they are the epitome of what being a survivor is. I fully admit, I blubbered some more.
As a fellow survivor, this whole story brought out so much in me. I have such empathy for both of them and yup, even love. Have you ever read a book or series that makes you feel so much and the story comes alive? For me it did, it really did.
Like with the majority of my reviews, I try to share what I found to the positives and negatives of the book.
So far the positives:
Obviously, I’ve raved about how much this book spoke to me. It did on so many levels and pulled my heart.
I got lost in their story and lost sleep because I couldn’t put it down. That’s both good and bad right?
Brooklyn captured so much heart, soul and depth in her main characters.
Deep down, they’re amazing people who have survived so much.
I loved the touches of humor and thoughtfulness.
The point of view from both characters was refreshing and added a lot to the story. It wasn’t just one person narrating or sharing. It honestly holds most of the story together. There is no guessing how they felt from another’s point of view.
The negatives for me:
I would have liked to know more about the Aunt and Uncle. They’re also both really unique characters.
Being a survivor, I would have liked to see more consequences for the person who traumatized Keep in mind, that’s the survivor in me talking.
I can tell there might be some good stories behind the supporting characters. I’d like to have a little more insight to them.
I had to change my shirt. I cried so much I messed up the top of my shirt! All that crying and blubbering had me on a search for something clean to put on.
Fair warning: This book can trigger some emotions in you. It can make you to giggle, get angry, ugly cry and cost you money buying more tissues. Forget it; just grab a towel to sop up the left over emotions falling through your peepers! When you sit down to read this, expect a marathon read. Brooklyn captured so much in this book and it will stay with you. Look closely and she’ll show you some powerful messages.
See my review on my blog!
http://chroniclesofanabibliophobiac.b...
August 16, 2019
I'm actually from Humble, TX and I was incredibly disappointed to see just how little research the author put into describing the town. It's a three hour drive from Austin to Humble, easily a weekend trip for research, but everything about the fictional Humble is *actually fictional* and not in a good way. It's not a sleepy farm town, it's twenty minutes from downtown Houston. You know, the fourth biggest city in the US? Humble High School's colors are purple and white, and the mascot is the Wildcats because "wildcatters" was the nickname of the oil field workers back in the early 1900s and Humble was an oil town. There are no "narrow, curvy roads" for a depressed football player to drive himself off of to die by suicide. If you drive off one of the roads in Humble, you're just going to nosedive into one of the drainage ditches that line either side of the roads. Humble has FIVE high schools, not one as was said in the novel.
Also, the H is silent. It's pronounced Umble. This is something EVERYONE in Humble knows and WILL correct you on. Since it was never brought up as far as I know, the author probably doesn't know how to pronounce the name of the town she set her novel in.
If you're going to use a real town's name in a novel, you need to do your work. I DNF'd it.
Also, the H is silent. It's pronounced Umble. This is something EVERYONE in Humble knows and WILL correct you on. Since it was never brought up as far as I know, the author probably doesn't know how to pronounce the name of the town she set her novel in.
If you're going to use a real town's name in a novel, you need to do your work. I DNF'd it.
December 9, 2017
A sweet story with a great message about loving yourself and others for who they are, not what you can get from them.
It really was a good storyline but that being said it was missing that polish; there were some plot holes and some relationships weren’t developed well which left some questions. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I would definitely give her another chance and read future books.
It really was a good storyline but that being said it was missing that polish; there were some plot holes and some relationships weren’t developed well which left some questions. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I would definitely give her another chance and read future books.
October 4, 2020
This book my goodness this book is a must read Elise is such a amazing girl that has had a hard time in life from birth and as you travel through this book you get to see how she over comes so many things and you just want to root for her and be happy for her Elise and Ford are both so very sweet this book will pull at your heart strings so have them tissues ready a wonderful read totally worth the tears so well written I cannot get enough so off to book 2 you will not regret reading this book
June 7, 2017
Ms. Taylor wrote a sensational story about Elise and Ford. She compassionately and realistically handles Elise's rape the way so many are still handled today. But she shows that with love, friends, support, and family love, you can and will survive, you can have a life and love again. This is a wonderfully written novel with something for everyone and I really enjoyed it.
June 19, 2017
This was a great book. Poor Elise has had a hard time of it. With a Nasty Nasty Mother and a Great Brother Thad. I read this hoping all the best comes to Elise. I liked the ending and was excited to read Changing Us to find out more about Elise and Shay and Ford and everyone else. I was given a copy from the Author to read and review if I chose to do so. I was not compensated in any way for this review.
January 3, 2019
I was hooked right away!! I knew this was going to be one of those books that just drawn you in because Elise has a terrible life and her own mother treats her like she is nothing. When she gets to move with her other family and learns that she is able to move forward with her life. Than when she finds out what happens to her brother just makes her life even more harder.
June 16, 2018
There’s nothing better than a story from your hometown. I listened to this book and the narration was on point with the accents. I loved the story of Eloise, I felt angry and sad at the beginning and then happy mixed with sorrow at the end. It was a perfect mix and I loved it.
July 16, 2021
Get the tissues ready
I have just sat up to 1.30am because I couldn’t put this book down. The entire story pulled on your heartstrings and physically moved me to tears. One of the best books I’ve read recently ❤️
I have just sat up to 1.30am because I couldn’t put this book down. The entire story pulled on your heartstrings and physically moved me to tears. One of the best books I’ve read recently ❤️
December 9, 2016
Emotional roller coaster
I started reading it and could not put it down. This book made me happy. Sad and upset me a few times. But I love a happily ever after
I started reading it and could not put it down. This book made me happy. Sad and upset me a few times. But I love a happily ever after
May 6, 2017
Great book
June 19, 2017
Loved! Loved, this book! Ford and Elise quickly became one of my favorites. Such an emotional story but great seeing them overcome anything to be happy.
January 1, 2019
A great balance of angst and fresh love
June 14, 2017
Beautiful story!!!
This story is a beautiful story and sad in some parts! Elise trusted her bestfriend and he crossed the line than her mother shipped her off so she had trust issues but than she meets ford at her aunt and uncles house and instantly falls for him but will he help her get out of this funk to trust guys!! This author wrote this beautifully! Can't wait to read more about ford and Elise and more of her books!!
This story is a beautiful story and sad in some parts! Elise trusted her bestfriend and he crossed the line than her mother shipped her off so she had trust issues but than she meets ford at her aunt and uncles house and instantly falls for him but will he help her get out of this funk to trust guys!! This author wrote this beautifully! Can't wait to read more about ford and Elise and more of her books!!
Read
April 28, 2016Awesome, full of tears, couldn't put it down read!!!
Elise Riley seemed like a normal teenager. Yeah she was short staffed when it came to parents but she had an older brother who loved and adored her and 2 best friends a girl could ask for. Until.....being alone with her best friend Bryan wasn't unusual but she never flirted or advanced on him because he was just a friend and didn't like him like that. Bryan took advantage of Elise and raped her. She didn't ask to be violated or used. Revealing this to her mom wasn't an easy task but she thought the one person that was suppose to be there and believe her didn't, instead she shipped her to her aunt and uncles house a few towns over.
Upon entering the small town of Humble Elise was broken, beat, and battered. She lost all trust in men and didn't think she would ever heal from what Bryan had done from her. Enter Ford, hot football star who could have any girl he wants and has his entire life mapped out and revolved around football. Only problem is it's nothing that he wants. He doesn't want the scholarship, to play football, or move from humble. Does would rather go to community college, settle down in humble, and quit playing football. Getting his overbearing sports fanatic dad to agree is the biggest challenge. As punishment for getting in trouble for skipping practice his dad makes him work at a local farm. What he didn't know is he would love the farm life and end up falling for the girl.
Elise and Ford develop an easy friendship and she can't believe how comfortable she is after what happened in Liberty. She's banned from dating him from her new best friend though and both must overcome obstacles in order to be together. The last thing Elise expects is to come first? To be someone's main concern (other than her brothers), to be wanted. Ford makes her feel so much and so fast. Her guard and wall is finally let down and it just might be for the right person.
This is a truly amazing and inspiring read. Elise is faced with so much and has so much to deal with that she never lets it get her too far down. She knows that besides her best friend Eme she has her older brother Thad and she was perfectly content with that but upon moving to humble and being with family who want her and love her and friends and a guy she wishes she moved way before that. I cried so much with the book and was on the edge of my seat. I wish one persons fate would have changed so that everyone could have their happy endings but I don't it's like it almost helped Elise come full circle and realize that life isn't always sticks and stones being thrown. Must read!!!
Elise Riley seemed like a normal teenager. Yeah she was short staffed when it came to parents but she had an older brother who loved and adored her and 2 best friends a girl could ask for. Until.....being alone with her best friend Bryan wasn't unusual but she never flirted or advanced on him because he was just a friend and didn't like him like that. Bryan took advantage of Elise and raped her. She didn't ask to be violated or used. Revealing this to her mom wasn't an easy task but she thought the one person that was suppose to be there and believe her didn't, instead she shipped her to her aunt and uncles house a few towns over.
Upon entering the small town of Humble Elise was broken, beat, and battered. She lost all trust in men and didn't think she would ever heal from what Bryan had done from her. Enter Ford, hot football star who could have any girl he wants and has his entire life mapped out and revolved around football. Only problem is it's nothing that he wants. He doesn't want the scholarship, to play football, or move from humble. Does would rather go to community college, settle down in humble, and quit playing football. Getting his overbearing sports fanatic dad to agree is the biggest challenge. As punishment for getting in trouble for skipping practice his dad makes him work at a local farm. What he didn't know is he would love the farm life and end up falling for the girl.
Elise and Ford develop an easy friendship and she can't believe how comfortable she is after what happened in Liberty. She's banned from dating him from her new best friend though and both must overcome obstacles in order to be together. The last thing Elise expects is to come first? To be someone's main concern (other than her brothers), to be wanted. Ford makes her feel so much and so fast. Her guard and wall is finally let down and it just might be for the right person.
This is a truly amazing and inspiring read. Elise is faced with so much and has so much to deal with that she never lets it get her too far down. She knows that besides her best friend Eme she has her older brother Thad and she was perfectly content with that but upon moving to humble and being with family who want her and love her and friends and a guy she wishes she moved way before that. I cried so much with the book and was on the edge of my seat. I wish one persons fate would have changed so that everyone could have their happy endings but I don't it's like it almost helped Elise come full circle and realize that life isn't always sticks and stones being thrown. Must read!!!
April 28, 2016
Elise Riley seemed like a normal teenager. Yeah she was short staffed when it came to parents but she had an older brother who loved and adored her and 2 best friends a girl could ask for. Until.....being alone with her best friend Bryan wasn't unusual but she never flirted or advanced on him because he was just a friend and didn't like him like that. Bryan took advantage of Elise and raped her. She didn't ask to be violated or used. Revealing this to her mom wasn't an easy task but she thought the one person that was suppose to be there and believe her didn't, instead she shipped her to her aunt and uncles house a few towns over.
Upon entering the small town of Humble Elise was broken, beat, and battered. She lost all trust in men and didn't think she would ever heal from what Bryan had done from her. Enter Ford, hot football star who could have any girl he wants and has his entire life mapped out and revolved around football. Only problem is it's nothing that he wants. He doesn't want the scholarship, to play football, or move from humble. Does would rather go to community college, settle down in humble, and quit playing football. Getting his overbearing sports fanatic dad to agree is the biggest challenge. As punishment for getting in trouble for skipping practice his dad makes him work at a local farm. What he didn't know is he would love the farm life and end up falling for the girl.
Elise and Ford develop an easy friendship and she can't believe how comfortable she is after what happened in Liberty. She's banned from dating him from her new best friend though and both must overcome obstacles in order to be together. The last thing Elise expects is to come first? To be someone's main concern (other than her brothers), to be wanted. Ford makes her feel so much and so fast. Her guard and wall is finally let down and it just might be for the right person.
This is a truly amazing and inspiring read. Elise is faced with so much and has so much to deal with that she never lets it get her too far down. She knows that besides her best friend Eme she has her older brother Thad and she was perfectly content with that but upon moving to humble and being with family who want her and love her and friends and a guy she wishes she moved way before that. I cried so much with the book and was on the edge of my seat. I wish one persons fate would have changed so that everyone could have their happy endings but I don't it's like it almost helped Elise come full circle and realize that life isn't always sticks and stones being thrown. Must read!!!
Upon entering the small town of Humble Elise was broken, beat, and battered. She lost all trust in men and didn't think she would ever heal from what Bryan had done from her. Enter Ford, hot football star who could have any girl he wants and has his entire life mapped out and revolved around football. Only problem is it's nothing that he wants. He doesn't want the scholarship, to play football, or move from humble. Does would rather go to community college, settle down in humble, and quit playing football. Getting his overbearing sports fanatic dad to agree is the biggest challenge. As punishment for getting in trouble for skipping practice his dad makes him work at a local farm. What he didn't know is he would love the farm life and end up falling for the girl.
Elise and Ford develop an easy friendship and she can't believe how comfortable she is after what happened in Liberty. She's banned from dating him from her new best friend though and both must overcome obstacles in order to be together. The last thing Elise expects is to come first? To be someone's main concern (other than her brothers), to be wanted. Ford makes her feel so much and so fast. Her guard and wall is finally let down and it just might be for the right person.
This is a truly amazing and inspiring read. Elise is faced with so much and has so much to deal with that she never lets it get her too far down. She knows that besides her best friend Eme she has her older brother Thad and she was perfectly content with that but upon moving to humble and being with family who want her and love her and friends and a guy she wishes she moved way before that. I cried so much with the book and was on the edge of my seat. I wish one persons fate would have changed so that everyone could have their happy endings but I don't it's like it almost helped Elise come full circle and realize that life isn't always sticks and stones being thrown. Must read!!!
June 8, 2016
Elise Riley, had come to learn about life the hard way. In her experiences of only 16 years old, she had learned that the one person she should be able to trust and love the most, the very person who gave birth to her and brought her into the world, wasn't always her biggest supporter. Then adding flame to the explosive fire, a person she gave her trust to, one of the few people who let in, took advantage of her and scarred her for life. For her, parts of her innocence were taken from her, piece by piece; she seemed to always bring out the worst in people. whether a curse of a blessing in disguise, she guessed but she would never know. The school counselor had planted that in her head and she believed it with all her heart.
She had to learn to roll with the punches, she knew there wasn't anything she could do to make it better. Instead it had helped her to accept things the way they were, or at least try to. Her mother seemed to always try to point out that she was Difficult, not the world. To her mother she though Elise put herself in those circumstances that would change her entire direction in life. it was Elise fault that she was treated the way she was treated.
Ford Kelly was different from most teenage boys. He liked routine, liked knowing where he was going to be and what he was going to be doing. He wanted to spend the rest of his life in his hometown Humble and didn't have any intentions of leaving anytime soon. He didn't want much other than to work a job and spend his days in the sun on the land. His father was a very complex man, but Ford not so much. He would be graduating at the end of the year and he was perfectly happy and content with the way his life was at that very moment in time. He wold officially turn down the offers for the college scholarships and stay in his hometown with a perfect smile on his face.
The Kelly's didn't agree on much but the one thing they did agree on was to raise him in Humble and involve him in football. He had played football from when he started to walk and it was impressed upon him what he would do, what he was expected to do. He did so much to keep his parents happy.
She had to learn to roll with the punches, she knew there wasn't anything she could do to make it better. Instead it had helped her to accept things the way they were, or at least try to. Her mother seemed to always try to point out that she was Difficult, not the world. To her mother she though Elise put herself in those circumstances that would change her entire direction in life. it was Elise fault that she was treated the way she was treated.
Ford Kelly was different from most teenage boys. He liked routine, liked knowing where he was going to be and what he was going to be doing. He wanted to spend the rest of his life in his hometown Humble and didn't have any intentions of leaving anytime soon. He didn't want much other than to work a job and spend his days in the sun on the land. His father was a very complex man, but Ford not so much. He would be graduating at the end of the year and he was perfectly happy and content with the way his life was at that very moment in time. He wold officially turn down the offers for the college scholarships and stay in his hometown with a perfect smile on his face.
The Kelly's didn't agree on much but the one thing they did agree on was to raise him in Humble and involve him in football. He had played football from when he started to walk and it was impressed upon him what he would do, what he was expected to do. He did so much to keep his parents happy.
June 23, 2016
This review is by Bob Boze on behalf of Truth About Books
Finding Me is a YA, Coming of Age, Love Story
In many ways, the plot of Finding Me is typical of a high school, senior football jock meets new girl, love story. For that reason, I reduced my rating but, other than that, I truly enjoyed Finding Me.
Elise Riley’s older brother Thad loves and adores her, as do her two best friends. The same cannot be said for her mother, who blames Elise for her father’s death and in whose eyes, Elise can do nothing right.
With her brother away touring colleges, Elise’s best friend Bryan rapes her. She turns to her mother who immediately blames her for enticing Bryan. Worse yet, her mother refuses to let her report it as it will ruin Bryan’s life. Instead, she ships Elise off to her aunt and uncles farm in the small Texas town of Humble.
Soon after arriving in Humble she makes a new best friend then, meets Ford, the schools star football player, and every girl’s dream. As she and Ford strike up a friendship. Her new best friend declares Ford is hers and warns her off.
In the meantime, Ford’s life is being dictated by his father who insists he dedicate his life to winning a football scholarship and playing college football. Ford however, has other plans: Plans that don’t include football or going to a four-year college. Instead, he wants to go to a community college, settle in Humble and purchase a farm.
When Ford skips practice, his dad punishes him by forcing him to work on a local farm; specifically, the farm owned by Elise’s aunt and uncle. As Ford spends more time on the farm and with Elise, this only confirms his plans and allows the connection he and Elise have to grow.
From here you can pretty much figure out where this story is going. However, there are plenty of twists and turns thrown in which, when combined the wonderful character development, will definitely hold your interest and have you cheering, crying and laughing as our two main characters find each other.
Overall, an excellently written story that will pull you in and hold your interest from cover to cover. A must read if you like YA Love Stories.
Finding Me is a YA, Coming of Age, Love Story
In many ways, the plot of Finding Me is typical of a high school, senior football jock meets new girl, love story. For that reason, I reduced my rating but, other than that, I truly enjoyed Finding Me.
Elise Riley’s older brother Thad loves and adores her, as do her two best friends. The same cannot be said for her mother, who blames Elise for her father’s death and in whose eyes, Elise can do nothing right.
With her brother away touring colleges, Elise’s best friend Bryan rapes her. She turns to her mother who immediately blames her for enticing Bryan. Worse yet, her mother refuses to let her report it as it will ruin Bryan’s life. Instead, she ships Elise off to her aunt and uncles farm in the small Texas town of Humble.
Soon after arriving in Humble she makes a new best friend then, meets Ford, the schools star football player, and every girl’s dream. As she and Ford strike up a friendship. Her new best friend declares Ford is hers and warns her off.
In the meantime, Ford’s life is being dictated by his father who insists he dedicate his life to winning a football scholarship and playing college football. Ford however, has other plans: Plans that don’t include football or going to a four-year college. Instead, he wants to go to a community college, settle in Humble and purchase a farm.
When Ford skips practice, his dad punishes him by forcing him to work on a local farm; specifically, the farm owned by Elise’s aunt and uncle. As Ford spends more time on the farm and with Elise, this only confirms his plans and allows the connection he and Elise have to grow.
From here you can pretty much figure out where this story is going. However, there are plenty of twists and turns thrown in which, when combined the wonderful character development, will definitely hold your interest and have you cheering, crying and laughing as our two main characters find each other.
Overall, an excellently written story that will pull you in and hold your interest from cover to cover. A must read if you like YA Love Stories.
April 6, 2016
Finding Me is a sweet, heartfelt story about the power of unconditional love. Brooklyn Taylor surprised me with her story of a young girl whose life has been anything but easy. Abused verbally by her mother, Elise is already teetering on broken when she falls victim to a crime committed by a friend. After being shipped off by an unbelieving mother, Elise goes to small town Humble, Texas to live with her aunt and uncle. It is there she heals and finds that unconditional love does exist in many forms.
I will admittedly say, I had no idea what to expect from Taylor when I first decided to review this book. Her story could have went two ways, extremely young adult filled with drama or a book with a message. I am happy to tell you Taylor has given you the latter. Her book not only has a great story but a message about so many issues girls face at a young age. Taylor’s characters were complex and showed true emotion, heartache, forgiveness, and love. I was completely captivated by the Elise’s story.
If only all of us had Ford Kelly as our first love! High school running back star destined for greatness, Ford Kelly was hard to resist Taylor really pulled out all the stops when she wrote Ford’s character. Wise and patient beyond his years, Ford is definitely one of those boys that you fall for when reading- even if he seems light years older than most adult men. HIs patience, kindness, and love for Elise was one of the reason I was so caught up in this story. My only suggestion would to have been his own personal journey been a bit more prevalent. I felt that his conversation with his parents was almost a little too easy.
With all that being said, I can easily tell you Brooklyn Taylor has written and given readers a solid book that is well worth reading. Finding Me is a book that will pull on your heartstrings while you read it in one sitting. I highly suggest that you pick this up and become a fan of Taylor’s just as I have.
I will admittedly say, I had no idea what to expect from Taylor when I first decided to review this book. Her story could have went two ways, extremely young adult filled with drama or a book with a message. I am happy to tell you Taylor has given you the latter. Her book not only has a great story but a message about so many issues girls face at a young age. Taylor’s characters were complex and showed true emotion, heartache, forgiveness, and love. I was completely captivated by the Elise’s story.
If only all of us had Ford Kelly as our first love! High school running back star destined for greatness, Ford Kelly was hard to resist Taylor really pulled out all the stops when she wrote Ford’s character. Wise and patient beyond his years, Ford is definitely one of those boys that you fall for when reading- even if he seems light years older than most adult men. HIs patience, kindness, and love for Elise was one of the reason I was so caught up in this story. My only suggestion would to have been his own personal journey been a bit more prevalent. I felt that his conversation with his parents was almost a little too easy.
With all that being said, I can easily tell you Brooklyn Taylor has written and given readers a solid book that is well worth reading. Finding Me is a book that will pull on your heartstrings while you read it in one sitting. I highly suggest that you pick this up and become a fan of Taylor’s just as I have.
April 8, 2016
Brooklyn Taylor is a newer author for me and I enjoyed the other book of hers that I read, so I had high hopes for Finding Me.
Finding Me is a good book that covers very emotional and difficult ground, but I struggled with connecting to the story. I don't know if it's that this effort is geared more to a YA audience than my previous exposure to Ms. Taylor or something else, but there were parts of the story that I really questioned.
Elise had a horrible home life until the final straw at 16 when her mother shipped her off to live with her aunt and uncle. (My first issue - if the mother/daughter relationship was so bad, why did it take 16 years for her mother to send her to live elsewhere? And if the aunt/uncle had such issues with the way she was cared for why did they not step in? Why did the friends parents not do more?)
Ford is the only child of a former high school football hero and the star running back of his high school team, but he hates it. (My second issue - I grew up in small town TX, so grew up exposed to the "football" culture. Some of the characterizations rang true for me, but seemed to be a compilation of the worst of the worst.)
Once Ford and Elise meet, things got better for me. She seems to be remarkably well adjusted given her issues and past, like someone I would encourage my own child to spend time with. Ford goes out of his way to be gentle and kind, even though this seems to be his nature anyway. The Elise/Ford relationship is what save this book for me.
If I could whisper in Ms. Taylor's ear, I would suggest expanding things a little bit so that we see more of Ford and Elise together as their relationship evolves. There were just a few questions that lingered for me. How did he react when she told him "everything?", etc.
Finding Me is a good book that covers very emotional and difficult ground, but I struggled with connecting to the story. I don't know if it's that this effort is geared more to a YA audience than my previous exposure to Ms. Taylor or something else, but there were parts of the story that I really questioned.
Elise had a horrible home life until the final straw at 16 when her mother shipped her off to live with her aunt and uncle. (My first issue - if the mother/daughter relationship was so bad, why did it take 16 years for her mother to send her to live elsewhere? And if the aunt/uncle had such issues with the way she was cared for why did they not step in? Why did the friends parents not do more?)
Ford is the only child of a former high school football hero and the star running back of his high school team, but he hates it. (My second issue - I grew up in small town TX, so grew up exposed to the "football" culture. Some of the characterizations rang true for me, but seemed to be a compilation of the worst of the worst.)
Once Ford and Elise meet, things got better for me. She seems to be remarkably well adjusted given her issues and past, like someone I would encourage my own child to spend time with. Ford goes out of his way to be gentle and kind, even though this seems to be his nature anyway. The Elise/Ford relationship is what save this book for me.
If I could whisper in Ms. Taylor's ear, I would suggest expanding things a little bit so that we see more of Ford and Elise together as their relationship evolves. There were just a few questions that lingered for me. How did he react when she told him "everything?", etc.
April 5, 2016
I was provided an ARC of Finding Me by Brooklyn Taylor and didn't know what to expect. I had never read any of her books before so I was excited to check out her style.
Wow...... I absolutely loved this book. It made me laugh, cry, get angry, and sigh. Her characters are real and raw. You felt the pain each was going through and couldn't help but be pulled in.
Elise Riley has been through so much in her 16 years. She lost her father when she was just a toddler and her mother never let her forget it. Elise was always third in her mother's eyes - behind her brother and even behind her own mother. She was ignored, dismissed, and excluded. But the worst part of it? Her own mother didn't believe her when Elise told her about the worst moment of her life. Instead, her mother blamed her, sided with Bryan, and shipped Elise off to her Aunt and Uncle's house.
Ford Kelly has always done what his father has wanted - he's played football even when he wanted to quit. He's simply counting down the days until he turns 18 and graduates. Then he's going to make his own decisions, his own choices, and going against his father's expectations.
Two people - both hurt by those that should show them unconditional love. Can they find love in each other? Can Elise get past her pain and fears and let Ford in? Can she trust again? Will Ford give Elise the time and support she so desperately needs? They could be perfect together - but will they?
I highly recommend reading Finding Me. Now I need to go read some of Brooklyn's other books!!
Wow...... I absolutely loved this book. It made me laugh, cry, get angry, and sigh. Her characters are real and raw. You felt the pain each was going through and couldn't help but be pulled in.
Elise Riley has been through so much in her 16 years. She lost her father when she was just a toddler and her mother never let her forget it. Elise was always third in her mother's eyes - behind her brother and even behind her own mother. She was ignored, dismissed, and excluded. But the worst part of it? Her own mother didn't believe her when Elise told her about the worst moment of her life. Instead, her mother blamed her, sided with Bryan, and shipped Elise off to her Aunt and Uncle's house.
Ford Kelly has always done what his father has wanted - he's played football even when he wanted to quit. He's simply counting down the days until he turns 18 and graduates. Then he's going to make his own decisions, his own choices, and going against his father's expectations.
Two people - both hurt by those that should show them unconditional love. Can they find love in each other? Can Elise get past her pain and fears and let Ford in? Can she trust again? Will Ford give Elise the time and support she so desperately needs? They could be perfect together - but will they?
I highly recommend reading Finding Me. Now I need to go read some of Brooklyn's other books!!
June 20, 2016
YA is such a hard genre for me to read anymore as I find it difficult to connect with the characters and that is exactly what happened in this book. I feel like I am so far removed from that time in my life anymore that is makes it hard to find common ground with the characters.
With all that said, I think Brooklyn did a great job of handling a delicate subject with grace and understanding. I feel like the author has grown in her writing skills with this book and that's a beautiful thing to witness in an author. From the first page you could tell Elise has not had the support of the one person in her life that she should. Add that to a betrayal from a close friend and it feels like the world is crashing down around her. Then steps in her aunt and uncle and she finally sees what she has been missing out on as far as having someone in her corner all the time. People who love her and want nothing more than to see her succeed.
Moving to Humble also brings in Ford to Elise's life. Although she has major trust issues she finds herself letting him in and they fall into an easy friendship at first that quickly develops into something more. The relationship never felt forced and it was believable.
With all that said I think if there had been a bit more character/relationship development maybe I could have connected better. I think some transitions could be worked on but all in all it was a decent book to read. As I said before, I feel as though Brooklyn's writing has grown and I will continue to read her books.
With all that said, I think Brooklyn did a great job of handling a delicate subject with grace and understanding. I feel like the author has grown in her writing skills with this book and that's a beautiful thing to witness in an author. From the first page you could tell Elise has not had the support of the one person in her life that she should. Add that to a betrayal from a close friend and it feels like the world is crashing down around her. Then steps in her aunt and uncle and she finally sees what she has been missing out on as far as having someone in her corner all the time. People who love her and want nothing more than to see her succeed.
Moving to Humble also brings in Ford to Elise's life. Although she has major trust issues she finds herself letting him in and they fall into an easy friendship at first that quickly develops into something more. The relationship never felt forced and it was believable.
With all that said I think if there had been a bit more character/relationship development maybe I could have connected better. I think some transitions could be worked on but all in all it was a decent book to read. As I said before, I feel as though Brooklyn's writing has grown and I will continue to read her books.
April 2, 2016
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Finding Me is a story of first love that will transport you back to a time when your stomach was filled with butterflies as you anticipated your very first kiss. Elise Riley is only sixteen, but while most girls her age have lived a carefree life, she has been through hell. Remarkably, instead of letting her past define her, Elise has remained strong. It is the spark in her eye and the resilience in her smile that draws the attention of Ford Kelly. Ford is everything a girl could want in a man. He is handsome, trustworthy, and kind. Can Elise finally let go of the demons that haunt her and find the happiness that she deserves with Ford?
This book was like a breath of fresh air! It is a sweet, wholesome tale of first love that is suitable for readers of all ages. I will warn you-while reading this you will laugh and you will cry, but I promise it will all be worth it in the end! If you are looking for a book that is heartbreakingly beautiful, I recommend giving this one a go!
Finding Me is a story of first love that will transport you back to a time when your stomach was filled with butterflies as you anticipated your very first kiss. Elise Riley is only sixteen, but while most girls her age have lived a carefree life, she has been through hell. Remarkably, instead of letting her past define her, Elise has remained strong. It is the spark in her eye and the resilience in her smile that draws the attention of Ford Kelly. Ford is everything a girl could want in a man. He is handsome, trustworthy, and kind. Can Elise finally let go of the demons that haunt her and find the happiness that she deserves with Ford?
This book was like a breath of fresh air! It is a sweet, wholesome tale of first love that is suitable for readers of all ages. I will warn you-while reading this you will laugh and you will cry, but I promise it will all be worth it in the end! If you are looking for a book that is heartbreakingly beautiful, I recommend giving this one a go!
June 30, 2016
This is a new author for me and I was excited to read this book.
The story starts out a little jumbled, but after a few pages, you get what's going on. Elise is a high school junior with an awesome big brother and horrid mother. Elise suffers a horrible tragedy, and when she tells her mom about it, her mom thinks she's lying. She sends Elise to her aunt and uncle's home, happy to be rid of her.
I'm surprised that the kids from Humble welcomed Elise as easily as they did. Shay grated my nerves, but ultimately meant well. Ford was the all-around high school football player with a heart of gold. Just as you think Elise is finally getting the life she deserves, yet another curveball is thrown at her.
The story was a bit long, but was very sweet. I loved Elise's aunt and uncle. I liked how Ford was respectful of Elise's boundaries and limitations. I actually wanted to see more of Elise and Ford's relationship as they became adults.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. I'm reviewing this book for Kylie's Fiction Addiction.
The story starts out a little jumbled, but after a few pages, you get what's going on. Elise is a high school junior with an awesome big brother and horrid mother. Elise suffers a horrible tragedy, and when she tells her mom about it, her mom thinks she's lying. She sends Elise to her aunt and uncle's home, happy to be rid of her.
I'm surprised that the kids from Humble welcomed Elise as easily as they did. Shay grated my nerves, but ultimately meant well. Ford was the all-around high school football player with a heart of gold. Just as you think Elise is finally getting the life she deserves, yet another curveball is thrown at her.
The story was a bit long, but was very sweet. I loved Elise's aunt and uncle. I liked how Ford was respectful of Elise's boundaries and limitations. I actually wanted to see more of Elise and Ford's relationship as they became adults.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. I'm reviewing this book for Kylie's Fiction Addiction.
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