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Perfect #1
Present Perfect
I’ve been unsure about many things in my life except for one thing, that I have always loved him. Every single minute of every single day that I have been on this earth, my heart has belonged to him. It has never been a question, never a doubt. The love had taken on many different forms over the years, but it had always been a constant.
Everyone has their definition of love. There have been countless songs sung about it. A gazillion books, articles, and poems written about it. There are experts on love who will tell you how to get it, keep it, and get over it.
We’re led to believe love is complicated. It’s not the love that’s complicated. It’s all the crap that we attach to it and put in front of it that makes it difficult. If you’re smart, you’ll realize this before it’s too late and simplify.
Amanda Kelly spent her entire life trying to control every aspect of it, while striving for perfection. Her obsession with being perfect, along with her feelings of worthlessness, consumed her. The one thing she thought was perfect in her life was the bond she shared with her best friend, Noah.
Everything was going according to her life plan until she woke up one day and realized she had fallen in love with him. The one thing she couldn’t control was the affect he had on her. Noah had the power to give her one hundred lifetimes of happiness, which also gave him the power to completely devastate her. He was the one thing in her life that was perfect, but she couldn't allow herself to have him.
Her life begins to unravel. Events take over and force her to let go of her dreams and desires. She needs to realize that a person cannot control the events in their life, only their reaction to them...but will it be too late for her to save her relationship with her best friend?
Present Perfect is a story of how past events have present consequences and how perfect your present could be if you stopped fighting and just allowed it to happen.
Everyone has their definition of love. There have been countless songs sung about it. A gazillion books, articles, and poems written about it. There are experts on love who will tell you how to get it, keep it, and get over it.
We’re led to believe love is complicated. It’s not the love that’s complicated. It’s all the crap that we attach to it and put in front of it that makes it difficult. If you’re smart, you’ll realize this before it’s too late and simplify.
Amanda Kelly spent her entire life trying to control every aspect of it, while striving for perfection. Her obsession with being perfect, along with her feelings of worthlessness, consumed her. The one thing she thought was perfect in her life was the bond she shared with her best friend, Noah.
Everything was going according to her life plan until she woke up one day and realized she had fallen in love with him. The one thing she couldn’t control was the affect he had on her. Noah had the power to give her one hundred lifetimes of happiness, which also gave him the power to completely devastate her. He was the one thing in her life that was perfect, but she couldn't allow herself to have him.
Her life begins to unravel. Events take over and force her to let go of her dreams and desires. She needs to realize that a person cannot control the events in their life, only their reaction to them...but will it be too late for her to save her relationship with her best friend?
Present Perfect is a story of how past events have present consequences and how perfect your present could be if you stopped fighting and just allowed it to happen.
420 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2013
About the author
Alison G. Bailey
14 books1,402 followersAlison G. Bailey is an award winning, Amazon and International bestselling author living in Charleston, South Carolina. At an early age she fell in love with writing, reworking scenes from her favorite TV shows and movies with new dialogue. Alison wrote and produced several stage plays before turning her sights on the book world.
Under the influence of a copious amount of Diet Pepsi and nonstop listening to her Spotify playlists, Alison writes unique emotional stories full of love, laughter, and romance.
*Subscribe to Alison's newsletter and receive a FREE ecopy of her bestselling novella, In The Moment.
http://www.subscribepage.com/b8a1q9
All roads that lead to my world are right here.
https://linktr.ee/alisongbailey
Under the influence of a copious amount of Diet Pepsi and nonstop listening to her Spotify playlists, Alison writes unique emotional stories full of love, laughter, and romance.
*Subscribe to Alison's newsletter and receive a FREE ecopy of her bestselling novella, In The Moment.
http://www.subscribepage.com/b8a1q9
All roads that lead to my world are right here.
https://linktr.ee/alisongbailey
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,164 reviews
December 1, 2014
I chose to read this because the book was all over my feeds. I thought I'd be ahead of the game for once and dive in (into shallow water head first, that is). If you take one look at my status updates, you're probably wondering WHY I didn't DNF this book! Why, you say? Because I don't post full reviews on dnf's nor do I rate them. For all the pain and suffering I endured with this book, it deserves my following
Notice the warning with this book! Did anyone warn Allison (that's me)....Oh, hell to the no! One word for this book.....
Extreme, never-ending drama, angst, and emotional torture! Am I being a bit melodramatic? Maybe- the book's rubbed off on me. Seriously people, not ONE scenario in this book went with emotional ease until the very last five or so pages. DO THE MATH!
So, a synopsis of the story is as such....it may contain some mild spoilers but these are why it drove me BATSHIT CRAZY....the storyline in its entirety. *Deep breath, chug of wine, here I go.....*
Amanda and Noah have been soul mates since basically birth. Their parents are friends, growing up together and always inseperable. When at about age 15, they start to realize this attachment is more than just friendship. Now, the gist of it is that Amanda has ZERO self esteem. She's never measured up to her older sister and feels a failure at almost everything life presents to her. She refuses to reduce Noah to having to love her. Surely their relationship will fail and she'll lose her best friend. She's not willing to risk his friendship for a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship that's doomed to fail- he deserves so much better than HER. (Get a backbone bitch. Oops, did I say that?). So essentially a quarter or more of the book is these KIDS (15) playing this cat and mouse game. Amanda didn't want him, but damn it if he looked the other way at someone else. It drove me nuts! Noah was so in love with this girl, would do ANYTHING for her and she yo-yo'ed him back and forth. He had the patience of Job for a kid, lemme tell ya. Here's where I'd started to....
Well, I'd like to say the years were good for her, that she grew up and realized that Noah was her soul mate and quit breaking his damn heart.....that would be a NEGATIVE! Every stinking time the reader would think something good would happen, DRAMA! Someone walks in, a phone rings, a chick walks up to him....blah blah. Then she runs off. This kind of drama I can get listening to my teenagers at home. So, essentially I was screaming at Noah something along the lines of.....
Move. The. Fuck. On, Noah!
What probably put the last nail in the coffin for me was about 75% in..... I mean, we get ZERO happiness but this was just mean on the author's part. It's all tragedy for this book. We get cheating, abuse, illness, death....YOU NAME IT, but that 75% mark....get your Prozac out folks!
No, honestly, at that point I was D-O-N-E. No tears, just anger! Why would you write a story with 100% angsty drama and then drop the bomb on us??? WHY?
Amanda- WEAK, MANIPULATIVE, IMMATURE, SELFISH, HEARTLESS (there is a point in the book where heartless is the only word for this girl).
Noah- SWEET, LOYAL, PROTECTIVE, CARING, WEAK (at times)
-------------------------
So, why did I give it two stars instead of less?
1. As painful as it was, I HAD to finish the book. It's like a horrible car wreck on the highway....I couldn't look the other way.
2. I loved Noah.
......He put up with so much shit no kid would EVER put up with for 20-some years. He was loyal, sweet and she didn't deserve him...Shit, if my son brought her home, I'd lock his ass in his room until he grew "a pair." Low self esteem aside, she was my all time most loathed heroine out there. She even beats Kiera in Thoughtless which is a tough one to beat.
3. Noah's endearment for Amanda made me melt.....he called her "Tweet." Cute story goes with that name.
4. The author saved my rating with the ending. It has an Epilogue that not 100% HEA but HFN. But she tortured us literally until the final pages before giving us that. I've got one thing to say about this author....she's a sadist! Luckily I was in a masochistic kind of mood today....... I survived.
Will I recommend this? If you love excessive drama to the point of kindle throwing, predicable angst, and long, drawn out torture, this book is for you......I'm out.
Oh, and I've decided I'm done with YA genre. When my kids are the same age as the H/h, it loses it's wow factor and turns just a bit weird. This isn't why I didn't love it specifically as that's not fair. Just sayin', I'm done with YA.
January 10, 2014
WOW!! Intensely passionate and deeply heart felt, Present Perfect blew me away with the incredible depth of emotion it conveyed. This is a must-read!!
Guys, this book was just phenomenal!! It made me feel with every part of my heart and I really truly mean feel . It was everything. Amazing. Breathtaking. Heartbreaking. Original. Intense. Once you start reading, I promise you will not be able to put it down!
It's a standalone romance and I read it in one emotionally charged sitting. I knew from the start that this book was going to rip my heart out and boy did it ever! Something about it just grabbed at me. I was so fully connected to every single word.
You know, this is why I love new indie books. Out of nowhere, gems like this just appear. These gorgeous, heartfelt, intensely emotional gems that end up owning my heart. I love it!
The story is brilliantly put together and perfectly paced. It flowed effortlessly. The writing was captivating and utterly absorbing. It's an emotional roller coaster from start to finish. It'll make you laugh and cry and feel with your whole heart. It'll shatter your heart and put it back together. But it's worth every tear because this is the story of a love that survived everything. I highly recommend it!
So... about the book:
Starting early in her childhood, Amanda spent her whole life striving for perfection. She grew up living under the shadow of her older sister - never quite measuring up in the eyes of her parents, teachers and friends and yet always wishing she could. But the one thing she had was Noah, her best friend, and he truly was her whole world.
"Noah had always been my best friend, my partner in crime, my protector, my soul mate, the love of my life. My everything. I may not have gotten the beauty, intelligence or talent, but I got Noah Stewart, the one "perfect" thing I could claim as mine and I wouldn't trade him for anything in the world."
Even when they were children, their connection and bond was so strong.
"Thank you, Noah." I whispered.
"For what?" He said into my hair.
"For taking care of me."
Wiping his eyes, he sat back on the bed…
"I promise, I won't let anything bad happen to you again."
She'd always felt close to him but one day something changed and she realized that what she felt was love. Real love - not just 'friend' love. It was just one of those things in life that just felt "right". But since she'd never felt like she could be good enough, she didn't feel perfect enough to be his girl and so she held back and kept their friendship from developing further.
"He was my best friend and I wasn't going to do anything to jeopardize that. I had to keep telling myself that nothing could ever happen between us."
I'm scared to say more though because I don't want to give anything away. It started out when Noah and Amanda were kids and then built their story in layers of detail and emotion that showed you the foundation of their relationship.
My heart overflowed with love for Noah. Holy wow was this guy ever amazing! He is now one of my all-time favorite book boyfriends!
The depth to which he cared for Amanda and was protective of her was just heart wrenching and impossible not to feel. I loved how open he was with her and the way he never held back his feelings. He knew she wasn't ready but he still opened his heart to her over and over again. Constantly offering it to her, always waiting to see if she was ready.
"You're the first girl I've ever noticed and the last girl I'll ever notice."
His nose skimmed across my cheek up to my temple as he whispered, "Stop pushing me away."
My heart broke for Amanda and for how little self worth the people in her life who were supposed to have supported her had instilled. Literally no person ever made her feel like anything more than average at best and since she saw Noah as this shining beacon of perfection, she just never felt like she could measure up. It was utterly heart breaking and the ripple effect throughout their lives was devastating. But at the same time, I understood why she couldn't give in and let them be more than friends. She hadn't yet learned to love herself, and because of that, she wasn't yet able to allow someone else to love her despite the fact that she loved him with all her heart and soul. It was just tragic to see such a wonderful person brought down so low.
"I would never love anyone except Noah. He was the love of my life, my soul mate. No one would ever replace him."
Scene after scene broke my heart as she kept pushing him away despite the fact that they were both so fucking in love with each other!!! It just killed me. I so was frustrated with Amanda but at the same time, I totally understood where she was coming from. It just hurt. A-fucking-lot.
"Noah, why did you ask me here tonight?" …
His eyes stayed focused on the ground as he whispered, "I miss you."
"You've always been my girl and always will be. No one will ever take me away from you, Tweet. You're my heart and soul and that's never going to change, no matter what you say."
"There hasn't been a day in my life that I haven't loved you. I just wish you would let me love you."
This book put me through the ringer. My heart was in my throat nearly the entire time I read. I couldn't breath properly. The intensity of what I was feeling consumed me. I'd be smiling one minute and crying the next. I went through every possible emotion. It made me feel everything. All at once.
There were moments that made me want to scream at the characters and then just want to hug them. I was infuriated, heart broken, in love, mad, happy, sad, shocked, angry, relieved... totally connected. I loved these characters SO much and my emotions were just in a constant state of overdrive as I kept hoping, wishing, praying with all my heart that they'd just be all right.
"What are we going to do, Tweet?"
"I need you in my life."
"I need you in mine, too."
"Be my friend," I said.
"Always."
The author deserves total bonus points for originality because this book has a HUGE twist in it. 72% and just BAM!!! It hit me. I went ice cold. Numb. Beyond emotion. I never saw it coming. Never. Not in a million years. And I can almost certainly guarantee that whatever it is you're guessing it is, that's probably not it.
I loved that it wasn't a fairy tale. Life happened. Life was gritty, real and cruel at times. It was merciless and the one lasting thing throughout it all was love.
This is a story of an everlasting friendship, a love, and an unbreakable bond of emotional attachment that surpassed and survived everything life threw at it.
There is a happy ending, guys. It comes at the end of a long, hard journey but it is worth every bit of heart ache and every tear shed. I promise.
This book leaves you with the message to live in the moment. The present is perfect. Don't waste a single second because every moment is precious. And don't be afraid to love. Love is stronger than anything.
I felt a similar kind of intensity while reading as I did from books like Thoughtless, The Opportunist and Sweet Thing. It made me care so deeply and feel so completely. It owned my heart and honestly, still does.
For a long time after I finished it, I just kept running scenes from various parts of the book over and over in my head - rethinking, reliving... I think that's the sign of a great story: when you're done the book, but the story keeps on playing in your head.
I'm floored that this is a debut novel. It was everything I could want in a book.
Phenomenal. Breathtaking. Intense.!!
Highly recommended! This one is going on my favorites shelf!
5 ++++ stars!
My casting for Noah & Amanda:
****************************
For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
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April 20, 2015
5 Stars!!!!!
I ugly cried my way through this a SECOND time! Now I'm ready for Noah's book!!!
Beautiful, emotional, gripping, intense. Just couldn’t put this one down! How do you review a book like this... a story that makes you feel intensely, shatters your heart and destroys you. But also a beautifully unique story that takes you on such a journey and captivates you. This one really got to me.
Some people are just bonded in a special way. It’s like they were made for each other. They share this special connection. You can’t really explain in, it just is what it is. Amanda and Noah share this bond. They’ve known each other since the day they were born. Noah has always been the constant in Amanda’s life. Her knight in plastic armor. Amanda is unsure of herself. The only thing she has ever been sure about is Noah.
Amanda and Noah have been best friends since the day they were born, which happens to be the same day. They were born minutes apart. There is no one better than Noah. Noah is everything to Amanda.
Noah has always been there for Amanda. No matter what. He protects her, stands by her, loves her unconditionally. Even as children, he is the one perfect thing in her life. The one thing she can count on, no matter what.
As Amanda and Noah get older, their feelings for each other start to change. They grow and develop. Amanda starts to feel something more than friendship for Noah, but she doesn’t think he could ever return those feelings. Amanda has some serious self esteem/self worth issues.
Amanda has always felt unworthy... never good enough. She feels as though her older sister is the perfect one. She tries to be perfect, but no matter what she does, she just doesn’t feel she’s worth it. While reading, you will get frustrated with Amanda. You may want to scream at Amanda, you might even want to throw something at her... All Noah wants is for her to know that she is enough. Noah knows Amanda is perfect for him. She just doesn’t believe it.
As time goes on, things between them get complicated. Remaining friends only isn’t easy for the two of them. Noah wants to be more. Tweet knows that if she and Noah get together for real, she will somehow screw it up. That can’t happen. She can’t lose Noah. He is the most important thing in her life. Amanda is instant they stay ‘just friends’.
Noah tries and tries to get Amanda to see that she is what he wants. The only one he wants. Nothing could ever break their bond.
The story follows Noah and Amanda from childhood until college age. It is such a devastating journey. There were points I had to put the nook down and take a ‘chapter break’. My heart just couldn’t take it. My heart was beating out of my chest... I swear this book gave me hives. I was just distraught. Amanda’s insecurities was the cause of so much pain and devastation for herself and Noah.
Noah was one of the most amazing guys. He wasn’t perfect, he made his fair share of mistakes, but he was only doing the best he could with the situation he was thrown into. You will fall in love with this guy. It’s just impossible not to.
There were so many other important characters in this story... many of them I felt a crazy amount of hate for. And most of their names started with the letter ‘B’. Also a character I loved named Dalton who was there for Amanda when she really needed someone.
I loved how unpredictable this story was. Things started happening that really shocked me. I truly didn’t know what was going to happen next or how everything was going to turn out. Then I got hit with a giant curve ball that I didn’t see coming at all. It was a total game changer.
Not every day do I pick up a book that has this strong of an impact on me. This book gave me a major case of ‘the feels’. And how I love books that make me feel. Cry, sob, laugh, smile, just FEEL. It gave me the same feelings I had while reading The Sweet Gum Tree, Thoughtless, That Boy and . It really pulled on my heartstrings. It was angsty, it was heartbreaking, it was incredible. The writing was amazing. The story was frustrating and beautiful. You will need massive amounts of tissues while reading this one... and don’t forget the chocolate cake! An unforgettable journey of two people who were truly meant to be together.
I ugly cried my way through this a SECOND time! Now I'm ready for Noah's book!!!
Beautiful, emotional, gripping, intense. Just couldn’t put this one down! How do you review a book like this... a story that makes you feel intensely, shatters your heart and destroys you. But also a beautifully unique story that takes you on such a journey and captivates you. This one really got to me.
Some people are just bonded in a special way. It’s like they were made for each other. They share this special connection. You can’t really explain in, it just is what it is. Amanda and Noah share this bond. They’ve known each other since the day they were born. Noah has always been the constant in Amanda’s life. Her knight in plastic armor. Amanda is unsure of herself. The only thing she has ever been sure about is Noah.
Amanda and Noah have been best friends since the day they were born, which happens to be the same day. They were born minutes apart. There is no one better than Noah. Noah is everything to Amanda.
Noah had always been my best friend, my partner in crime, my soul mate, the love of my life. My everything.
Noah has always been there for Amanda. No matter what. He protects her, stands by her, loves her unconditionally. Even as children, he is the one perfect thing in her life. The one thing she can count on, no matter what.
‘I promise, I won’t let anything bad happen to you again, Tweet.’
As Amanda and Noah get older, their feelings for each other start to change. They grow and develop. Amanda starts to feel something more than friendship for Noah, but she doesn’t think he could ever return those feelings. Amanda has some serious self esteem/self worth issues.
Noah deserved perfect because he was, and I was as far from perfect as you could get.Noah has some serious feelings for Amanda. He is in love with her. He wants more than friendship with her, but all she ever does is push him away.
“You deserve better than me, Noah.”
“There isn’t anyone better than you for me.”
Amanda has always felt unworthy... never good enough. She feels as though her older sister is the perfect one. She tries to be perfect, but no matter what she does, she just doesn’t feel she’s worth it. While reading, you will get frustrated with Amanda. You may want to scream at Amanda, you might even want to throw something at her... All Noah wants is for her to know that she is enough. Noah knows Amanda is perfect for him. She just doesn’t believe it.
As time goes on, things between them get complicated. Remaining friends only isn’t easy for the two of them. Noah wants to be more. Tweet knows that if she and Noah get together for real, she will somehow screw it up. That can’t happen. She can’t lose Noah. He is the most important thing in her life. Amanda is instant they stay ‘just friends’.
Noah tries and tries to get Amanda to see that she is what he wants. The only one he wants. Nothing could ever break their bond.
The story follows Noah and Amanda from childhood until college age. It is such a devastating journey. There were points I had to put the nook down and take a ‘chapter break’. My heart just couldn’t take it. My heart was beating out of my chest... I swear this book gave me hives. I was just distraught. Amanda’s insecurities was the cause of so much pain and devastation for herself and Noah.
“I can’t be around you right now. It hurts too much., because I am so completely and desperately in love with you, Tweet.”
‘There hasn’t been a day in my life that I haven’t loved you. I wish you would just let me love you.”
“I just need some time to figure out how I can have you in my life without having you be my life.”
“You do have me. Every part of me. You just don’t want me.”
“I can’t lose you. You’re my everything. Not having you in my life wrecked me before, but not having you in my world would completely destroy me.”
Noah was one of the most amazing guys. He wasn’t perfect, he made his fair share of mistakes, but he was only doing the best he could with the situation he was thrown into. You will fall in love with this guy. It’s just impossible not to.
There were so many other important characters in this story... many of them I felt a crazy amount of hate for. And most of their names started with the letter ‘B’. Also a character I loved named Dalton who was there for Amanda when she really needed someone.
I loved how unpredictable this story was. Things started happening that really shocked me. I truly didn’t know what was going to happen next or how everything was going to turn out. Then I got hit with a giant curve ball that I didn’t see coming at all. It was a total game changer.
Not every day do I pick up a book that has this strong of an impact on me. This book gave me a major case of ‘the feels’. And how I love books that make me feel. Cry, sob, laugh, smile, just FEEL. It gave me the same feelings I had while reading The Sweet Gum Tree, Thoughtless, That Boy and . It really pulled on my heartstrings. It was angsty, it was heartbreaking, it was incredible. The writing was amazing. The story was frustrating and beautiful. You will need massive amounts of tissues while reading this one... and don’t forget the chocolate cake! An unforgettable journey of two people who were truly meant to be together.
Everyone deserves a thank you and goodbye.
August 12, 2013
Buddy read with Skank Soraya Naomi and Dhini!!!
Don't get me wrong, this was a very well written piece of work! The first 20% was riveting! But after that I just got frustrated, I'm sorry to say this but I had no sympathy for Amanda. She was stupid self absorbed and juvenile!
I hate stupid heroines and this one was just that... stupid!
By the way, how many men does this girl need to feel like a real person???? Adequate??? My patience was tried!!! Get over yourself Amanda!
Yes it was beautifully written, but I've read and watched this plot so many times! Which isn't a bad thing. But it ended up being predictable and there wasn't even an alpha male to keep me interested! I'll over look anything for an alpha male!!!
The last 20% could have salvaged this book, if I hadn't had to read 60% of horridious content! I didn't shed a tear I tell you, and I'm a pretty emotional person!
P.S. Anna you rock girl!!!
Don't get me wrong, this was a very well written piece of work! The first 20% was riveting! But after that I just got frustrated, I'm sorry to say this but I had no sympathy for Amanda. She was stupid self absorbed and juvenile!
I hate stupid heroines and this one was just that... stupid!
By the way, how many men does this girl need to feel like a real person???? Adequate??? My patience was tried!!! Get over yourself Amanda!
Yes it was beautifully written, but I've read and watched this plot so many times! Which isn't a bad thing. But it ended up being predictable and there wasn't even an alpha male to keep me interested! I'll over look anything for an alpha male!!!
The last 20% could have salvaged this book, if I hadn't had to read 60% of horridious content! I didn't shed a tear I tell you, and I'm a pretty emotional person!
P.S. Anna you rock girl!!!
August 15, 2013
5+++ stars!!! Of the best kind of beautiful pain variety !!!!!!
the butterflies that attack your stomach will do cartwheels and your heart will be weeping ❤❤
I’ve been unsure about many things in my life except for one thing, that I have always loved him. Every single minute of every single day that I have been on this earth, my heart has belonged to him. It has never been a question, never a doubt. The love had taken on many different forms over the years, but it had always been a constant.
And his name is Noah .... Damn. I love all things Noah. Luckily there was room in the Noah sector of my heart for this Noah....and boy did this knight in plastic armor invade!
This is a story about Noah and Amanda who he affectionately calls Tweet. They have been best friends all of their lives. Tweet has battled with self-esteem issues her whole life. She never would let Noah know her true feelings. Frustrating ~ I know.....but it all will make sense. I promise.
This book takes us on a journey from when they were small children into their college years. Life happens throughout this time but one thing remains constant......Noah and his feelings....
I can't say much more without revealing too much! I will add that I loved how this book reminded me of the best bits and pieces of my own favorite books!
How do you say "NO" and just obliterate a genuine heart that's attached to sky blue eyes like this ???? .......
I can't lose you, You're my everything
How can I stand here with You and not be moved by You?
Would You tell me, how could it be any better than this?
Always remember Present Perfect. Everyone deserves a thank you and goodbye~Dalton Michael Connor
the butterflies that attack your stomach will do cartwheels and your heart will be weeping ❤❤
And how can I stand here with You and not be moved by You?
Would You tell me, how could it be any better than this?
'Cause You're all I want, You're all I need
You're everything, everything
You're all I want, You're all I need
You're everything, everything
Lifehouse - Everything
I’ve been unsure about many things in my life except for one thing, that I have always loved him. Every single minute of every single day that I have been on this earth, my heart has belonged to him. It has never been a question, never a doubt. The love had taken on many different forms over the years, but it had always been a constant.
And his name is Noah .... Damn. I love all things Noah. Luckily there was room in the Noah sector of my heart for this Noah....and boy did this knight in plastic armor invade!
This is a story about Noah and Amanda who he affectionately calls Tweet. They have been best friends all of their lives. Tweet has battled with self-esteem issues her whole life. She never would let Noah know her true feelings. Frustrating ~ I know.....but it all will make sense. I promise.
Noah deserved perfect because he was, and I was as far from perfect as you could get.
I needed him in my life. I knew I wasn't good enough for him, but I couldn't stand the thought of another girl having his attention.
This book takes us on a journey from when they were small children into their college years. Life happens throughout this time but one thing remains constant......Noah and his feelings....
You've always been my girl and always will be. No one will ever take me away from you, Tweet. You're my heart and soul and that's never going to change, no matter what you say
I can't say much more without revealing too much! I will add that I loved how this book reminded me of the best bits and pieces of my own favorite books!
How do you say "NO" and just obliterate a genuine heart that's attached to sky blue eyes like this ???? .......
I can't be around you right now. It hurts too much, because I am so completely and desperately in love with you, Tweet. There hasn't been a day that I haven't loved you. I wish you would just let me love you
You do have me. Every part of me. You always have. You just don't want me
I figured if I kept telling you how incredible you were and how much I loved you that one day you'd believe it and stop all this bullshit. You're not a loser, Tweet. You're a coward, because you just threw away the chance to be with someone who wanted to spend the rest of his life loving you
I can't lose you, You're my everything
How can I stand here with You and not be moved by You?
Would You tell me, how could it be any better than this?
Always remember Present Perfect. Everyone deserves a thank you and goodbye~Dalton Michael Connor
August 18, 2013
5 PERFECT STARS.
"I may not have gotten all the beauty, intelligence or talent, but I got Noah Stewart, the one "perfect" thing I could claim as mine and I wouldn't trade him for anything in the world."
Emotional, heart-breaking, gripping, dramatic, full of love, passion and forever-you-hold-my-heart-devotion, yes this it just some of the thoughts that I would use to sum up my chaotic thoughts of my reading experience of 'Present perfect'. This story stole my heart, filled it with butterflies and I don't think the author has returned it just yet. Wow readers beware, once you pick this book up you won't want to put it down. Welcome to 'Present perfect' a story that captivated my heart and interest and left me with a favourite book, a smile on my face and a huge pile of tissues. 'Present perfect' is written to young adult perfection in one angsty, heart warming package that I'm sure for most readers will be unforgettable.
What's it all about ...
Amanda 'Tweet' Kelly has lived her whole life under a self imposed exile of low self worth. Everyday a new comparison is born out of a lack of confidence and realisation of who she actually is. One of the shining parts of her life is her soul mate and best friend Noah Stewart, Noah desperately wants his best friend and life companion to see herself as others do; a loving, sweet, funny and irresistible part of his life. For years this duo are inseparable but life's cracks start to make an appearance and this relationship is thrown in the deep end to test its strength. 'Present perfect' maps the journey of this couples lives as the years go by from childhood to adults. Heartache, love and life is shared and the reader is taken into the world of Tweet and Noah, hoping that they find their perfect ending.
What did I love?
Firstly I have to talk about the main characters of this story; Noah and Tweet, both characters completely stole my heart and both for very different reasons. Amanda 'Tweet' was as loveable as she was frustrating, her inner dialogue went from one page of laugh out loud funny to another page of heartbreaking and even though I wanted this character to learn to love herself more I really connected with her right from the beginning. Noah our 'Present perfect' hero was nothing short of amazing, he had the right mix of sweet and sexy and there was not one part of his role in the story that I didn't swoon at. I loved that I was able to connect with both characters on a level where I felt I was emotionally invested in the storyline; I cried, laughed, felt anger and fell in love. The writing style was effortless and seamless the author cleverly balanced the book out with the right amount of humour and sincerity and although the angst level was switched to high I found myself enjoying the drama. Alison Bailey spoke with a refreshing voice, delivering a well thought out story which both broke and fixed my heart and I'm excited to see what else this outstanding author will offer in the future.
Final thoughts ...
For those readers that don't enjoy YA/NA genre or overly dramatic plots I doubt this book will be for you. But on the flip side those that go ga-ga over this genre and enjoy an angsty, soul breaking love story will gobble this story right up and I recommend that you don't miss out on this soul searching, heart wrenching, toe curling story of love, life and the present perfect. You won't be sorry, go grab it readers, kisses.
*Additional note to readers the following items are advisory before launching into this book: chocolate, alcohol of your choice, a giant sized pack of tissues and a large amount of patience.*
"I may not have gotten all the beauty, intelligence or talent, but I got Noah Stewart, the one "perfect" thing I could claim as mine and I wouldn't trade him for anything in the world."
Emotional, heart-breaking, gripping, dramatic, full of love, passion and forever-you-hold-my-heart-devotion, yes this it just some of the thoughts that I would use to sum up my chaotic thoughts of my reading experience of 'Present perfect'. This story stole my heart, filled it with butterflies and I don't think the author has returned it just yet. Wow readers beware, once you pick this book up you won't want to put it down. Welcome to 'Present perfect' a story that captivated my heart and interest and left me with a favourite book, a smile on my face and a huge pile of tissues. 'Present perfect' is written to young adult perfection in one angsty, heart warming package that I'm sure for most readers will be unforgettable.
What's it all about ...
Amanda 'Tweet' Kelly has lived her whole life under a self imposed exile of low self worth. Everyday a new comparison is born out of a lack of confidence and realisation of who she actually is. One of the shining parts of her life is her soul mate and best friend Noah Stewart, Noah desperately wants his best friend and life companion to see herself as others do; a loving, sweet, funny and irresistible part of his life. For years this duo are inseparable but life's cracks start to make an appearance and this relationship is thrown in the deep end to test its strength. 'Present perfect' maps the journey of this couples lives as the years go by from childhood to adults. Heartache, love and life is shared and the reader is taken into the world of Tweet and Noah, hoping that they find their perfect ending.
What did I love?
Firstly I have to talk about the main characters of this story; Noah and Tweet, both characters completely stole my heart and both for very different reasons. Amanda 'Tweet' was as loveable as she was frustrating, her inner dialogue went from one page of laugh out loud funny to another page of heartbreaking and even though I wanted this character to learn to love herself more I really connected with her right from the beginning. Noah our 'Present perfect' hero was nothing short of amazing, he had the right mix of sweet and sexy and there was not one part of his role in the story that I didn't swoon at. I loved that I was able to connect with both characters on a level where I felt I was emotionally invested in the storyline; I cried, laughed, felt anger and fell in love. The writing style was effortless and seamless the author cleverly balanced the book out with the right amount of humour and sincerity and although the angst level was switched to high I found myself enjoying the drama. Alison Bailey spoke with a refreshing voice, delivering a well thought out story which both broke and fixed my heart and I'm excited to see what else this outstanding author will offer in the future.
Final thoughts ...
For those readers that don't enjoy YA/NA genre or overly dramatic plots I doubt this book will be for you. But on the flip side those that go ga-ga over this genre and enjoy an angsty, soul breaking love story will gobble this story right up and I recommend that you don't miss out on this soul searching, heart wrenching, toe curling story of love, life and the present perfect. You won't be sorry, go grab it readers, kisses.
*Additional note to readers the following items are advisory before launching into this book: chocolate, alcohol of your choice, a giant sized pack of tissues and a large amount of patience.*
August 11, 2013
4.5 Emotional Stars
I would say if Jillian Dodd's That Boy made a baby with this would be their love child.
This is the story of Amanda aka Tweet and Noah. These two best friends growing up together. Noah loves Amanda but she is scared to be in a relationship with him since she doesn't want to ruin their friendship. I can't say much more than that without giving it away.
Things I liked
- The story....Man what a great story
- The humor
- Amanda's diary entries
- Noah
- The humiliation Amanda felt (not all of it, but some of the embarrassment was funny)
- The inadequacies Amanda felt (I was the younger sister and was ALWAYS compared to her)
- The fact that it was realistic
- The nickname, Tweet and how it was earned.
- Great supporting characters (Lisa and Dalton)
Things I could have done without
-Emily has gray eyes. (Why does everyone write someone with gray eyes! That may have to be a new shelf!)
- With regard to Dalton
- Brooke (she's a skank bitch)
- Me tearing up so much (maybe its just PMS?)
- Sex scenes.....
- minor grammar/editing errors
"Find someone that you'll miss. Because if you miss them that means your life was enhanced and you cared."
I would say if Jillian Dodd's That Boy made a baby with this would be their love child.
This is the story of Amanda aka Tweet and Noah. These two best friends growing up together. Noah loves Amanda but she is scared to be in a relationship with him since she doesn't want to ruin their friendship. I can't say much more than that without giving it away.
Things I liked
- The story....Man what a great story
- The humor
- Amanda's diary entries
- Noah
- The humiliation Amanda felt (not all of it, but some of the embarrassment was funny)
- The inadequacies Amanda felt (I was the younger sister and was ALWAYS compared to her)
- The fact that it was realistic
- The nickname, Tweet and how it was earned.
- Great supporting characters (Lisa and Dalton)
Things I could have done without
-Emily has gray eyes. (Why does everyone write someone with gray eyes! That may have to be a new shelf!)
- With regard to Dalton
- Brooke (she's a skank bitch)
- Me tearing up so much (maybe its just PMS?)
- Sex scenes.....
- minor grammar/editing errors
"Find someone that you'll miss. Because if you miss them that means your life was enhanced and you cared."
August 16, 2013
Five completely angsty and amazing “Tweet” Stars!!
This book left emotionally drained and looking like a balloon fish. I don’t remember crying this much with a book. But I wouldn’t change a thing.
This was, without a single doubt, one of the best books I’ve ever read. And I read a lot.
“You don’t need to be perfect in your life, but always be present in it. The present is the most perfect gift you can have.”
Amanda believes that she has to be perfect, but also that she’s far from it. The only perfect thing in her life is Noah, and their friendship, since they’re best friends since ever.
And when they get older and friendship starts to grow into love she doesn’t want it because she’s afraid of not being good enough for him and that she will eventually ruin everything and ending up losing the most important person in her life: Noah.
He doesn’t see her any less than perfect, but she is able of believing that.
But life has its own way of surprising us and it takes us to the most unexpected places, make us meet the most wonderful people and make us learn how to live when everything seems darker every day.
And life taught Amanda and Noah a lot of things, and the most important of them was never, ever, give up.
“Tweet” and Noah story takes the length of several years, it’s consuming, full of angst, of loyalty, love and friendship, and it’s utterly beautiful.
If there are any books that teach us a life lesson, this was definitely one of them. I loved every single second of it (including the ones where I was crying like a baby, which was a lot) and I ended up this reading wanting…no…needing to enjoy and appreciate my life more, because all we believe it’s certain, can change in a single second.
I don’t like to impose books to people, but I strongly advise you reading this one. It’s completely amazing, with wonderful and complex characters (I LOVED NOAH SO MUCH!!), and a achingly wonderful story.
You will end this book a new and better person, I assure you.
(This book is definitely one of the reasons I love indie authors: we found real jewels like this reading.)
This book left emotionally drained and looking like a balloon fish. I don’t remember crying this much with a book. But I wouldn’t change a thing.
This was, without a single doubt, one of the best books I’ve ever read. And I read a lot.
“You don’t need to be perfect in your life, but always be present in it. The present is the most perfect gift you can have.”
Amanda believes that she has to be perfect, but also that she’s far from it. The only perfect thing in her life is Noah, and their friendship, since they’re best friends since ever.
And when they get older and friendship starts to grow into love she doesn’t want it because she’s afraid of not being good enough for him and that she will eventually ruin everything and ending up losing the most important person in her life: Noah.
He doesn’t see her any less than perfect, but she is able of believing that.
But life has its own way of surprising us and it takes us to the most unexpected places, make us meet the most wonderful people and make us learn how to live when everything seems darker every day.
And life taught Amanda and Noah a lot of things, and the most important of them was never, ever, give up.
“Tweet” and Noah story takes the length of several years, it’s consuming, full of angst, of loyalty, love and friendship, and it’s utterly beautiful.
If there are any books that teach us a life lesson, this was definitely one of them. I loved every single second of it (including the ones where I was crying like a baby, which was a lot) and I ended up this reading wanting…no…needing to enjoy and appreciate my life more, because all we believe it’s certain, can change in a single second.
I don’t like to impose books to people, but I strongly advise you reading this one. It’s completely amazing, with wonderful and complex characters (I LOVED NOAH SO MUCH!!), and a achingly wonderful story.
You will end this book a new and better person, I assure you.
(This book is definitely one of the reasons I love indie authors: we found real jewels like this reading.)
August 14, 2019
4.5 en realidad.
MADRE MÍA DE MI VIDA.
Debería dejar de leer tan seguidos tantos libros con drama, porque al final moriré ahogada en mis propias lágrimas o de un infarto por tantas emociones juntas.
Esta es la historia de Amanda y Noah. Ellos nacieron con un minuto de diferencia y desde entonces han estado unidos. Son vecinos, han crecido juntos y son los mejores amigos del mundo. En la novela iremos viendo momentos de los dos desde que son niños hasta que llegan a la adolescencia, que es donde se empieza a desarrollar más la historia. Una amistad tan fuerte empieza a desembocar en algo más, unos sentimientos que al principio no son capaces de comprender pero que hará que su amistad peligre. Noah y Amanda se enfrentarán en este libro a la vida, una vida que nunca es lo que esperas.
Me flipan las historias de amor de amigos de toda la vida. No sé por qué, pero es algo que disfruto muchísimo. Ver como los sentimientos van cambiando de amistad a algo más, me parece apasionante y algo bastante coherente, sobre todo cuando haces todas las cosas con esa persona y es prácticamente tu alma gemela.
Otro ingrediente que me ha flipado en la novela es EL DRAMA. ¿Puede que a veces haya sido exagerado? Pues a ver, no lo voy a negar, sí. PERO ES QUE MERECE LA PENA QUE LO SEA. Sin ese drama, no se te removerían los sentimientos. Y es que aunque durante toda la novela hay drama y ocurren cosas entre ellos que te sorprenden, hay un giro muy inesperado que me quedó en shock anoche mientras lo leía y tuve que dejar de leer porque se me nubló la vista y no podía seguir por culpa de las lágrimas y real que tuve que descansar hasta hoy para poder terminarlo y sentirme con las fuerzas suficientes para hacerlo.
Es cierto que he sentido mucha impotencia en esta historia de amor. Amanda me sacada de quicio y me exasperaba. No entendía su pensamiento cíclico que tenía todo el rato. Me entraban ganas de entrar en el libro y decirla que espabilara, pero obviamente era imposible. Por otra parte, Noah me ha encantando a pesar de unos cuantos detalles sin importancia. Pero los momentos entre ellos dos me hacían morir de amor y de ternura.
Si buscáis un libro new adult que os sorprenda y os deje con la boca abierta, tenéis que darle una oportunidad. Me ha flipado la manera en la que está escrito, la historia y sus personajes. Eso sí, si odiáis el drama, no os acerquéis porque hay y mucho xD
MADRE MÍA DE MI VIDA.
Debería dejar de leer tan seguidos tantos libros con drama, porque al final moriré ahogada en mis propias lágrimas o de un infarto por tantas emociones juntas.
Esta es la historia de Amanda y Noah. Ellos nacieron con un minuto de diferencia y desde entonces han estado unidos. Son vecinos, han crecido juntos y son los mejores amigos del mundo. En la novela iremos viendo momentos de los dos desde que son niños hasta que llegan a la adolescencia, que es donde se empieza a desarrollar más la historia. Una amistad tan fuerte empieza a desembocar en algo más, unos sentimientos que al principio no son capaces de comprender pero que hará que su amistad peligre. Noah y Amanda se enfrentarán en este libro a la vida, una vida que nunca es lo que esperas.
Me flipan las historias de amor de amigos de toda la vida. No sé por qué, pero es algo que disfruto muchísimo. Ver como los sentimientos van cambiando de amistad a algo más, me parece apasionante y algo bastante coherente, sobre todo cuando haces todas las cosas con esa persona y es prácticamente tu alma gemela.
Otro ingrediente que me ha flipado en la novela es EL DRAMA. ¿Puede que a veces haya sido exagerado? Pues a ver, no lo voy a negar, sí. PERO ES QUE MERECE LA PENA QUE LO SEA. Sin ese drama, no se te removerían los sentimientos. Y es que aunque durante toda la novela hay drama y ocurren cosas entre ellos que te sorprenden, hay un giro muy inesperado que me quedó en shock anoche mientras lo leía y tuve que dejar de leer porque se me nubló la vista y no podía seguir por culpa de las lágrimas y real que tuve que descansar hasta hoy para poder terminarlo y sentirme con las fuerzas suficientes para hacerlo.
Es cierto que he sentido mucha impotencia en esta historia de amor. Amanda me sacada de quicio y me exasperaba. No entendía su pensamiento cíclico que tenía todo el rato. Me entraban ganas de entrar en el libro y decirla que espabilara, pero obviamente era imposible. Por otra parte, Noah me ha encantando a pesar de unos cuantos detalles sin importancia. Pero los momentos entre ellos dos me hacían morir de amor y de ternura.
Si buscáis un libro new adult que os sorprenda y os deje con la boca abierta, tenéis que darle una oportunidad. Me ha flipado la manera en la que está escrito, la historia y sus personajes. Eso sí, si odiáis el drama, no os acerquéis porque hay y mucho xD
August 8, 2018
Hay dos tipos de historias que me las bebo como si fueran agua: las historias de amigos de infancia que terminan enamorándose y las que contienen drama.
Y mira que en Perfect hay de los dos, pero la autora se ha pasado 20 pueblos con el drama.
La historia en sí me ha encantado desde el principio, ver como Noah y Amanda iban creciendo y a la vez sus sentimientos iban yendo a más. Y sobre todo lo bonito y bueno que era Noah con Amanda, pero de golpe y porrazo la autora empieza a meter drama, y drama, y más drama... Y sorpresa, ¡Más drama! Y se ha cargado una historia que podía ser perfecta.
Le doy está puntuación porque me ha tenido enganchada total al culebrón, pero no acepto ni perdono el pavo de Amanda y muchas acciones que hace, y tampoco muchas cosas que hace Noah.
Y mira que en Perfect hay de los dos, pero la autora se ha pasado 20 pueblos con el drama.
La historia en sí me ha encantado desde el principio, ver como Noah y Amanda iban creciendo y a la vez sus sentimientos iban yendo a más. Y sobre todo lo bonito y bueno que era Noah con Amanda, pero de golpe y porrazo la autora empieza a meter drama, y drama, y más drama... Y sorpresa, ¡Más drama! Y se ha cargado una historia que podía ser perfecta.
Le doy está puntuación porque me ha tenido enganchada total al culebrón, pero no acepto ni perdono el pavo de Amanda y muchas acciones que hace, y tampoco muchas cosas que hace Noah.
September 28, 2013
**2.5 stars**
Present Perfect was a frustrating journey from the very start to the end of the book. Amanda spent her time doubting Noah's feelings and pushing him away. Even though Noah was very upfront and let her know exactly how he felt about her.
He loves me, He loves me not, He loves me,..."
When I got to 30% I decided to put the book down and read two other books hoping that when I came back I would be more tolerant of Amanda's over the top behavior. Unfortunately, my feelings didn't improve. By the time the big shocker came at 71% I didn't feel anything for the characters.
At 86% Amanda summed up the book for me-
By no means should you judge your decision to read this book off of my review. The majority of my friends gave this book 5 stars.
SERIES:
No cliffhanger. Spinoff
Present Perfect was a frustrating journey from the very start to the end of the book. Amanda spent her time doubting Noah's feelings and pushing him away. Even though Noah was very upfront and let her know exactly how he felt about her.
He loves me, He loves me not, He loves me,..."
When I got to 30% I decided to put the book down and read two other books hoping that when I came back I would be more tolerant of Amanda's over the top behavior. Unfortunately, my feelings didn't improve. By the time the big shocker came at 71% I didn't feel anything for the characters.
At 86% Amanda summed up the book for me-
"This is ridiculous."
By no means should you judge your decision to read this book off of my review. The majority of my friends gave this book 5 stars.
SERIES:
No cliffhanger. Spinoff
December 1, 2014
5 Heartbreaking Stars
I will begin by saying this book will test your patience and your resilience as a reader, but when it is all said and done it will be completely worth it.
I read this book last night after my bestie said she needed someone to hold her hand for a re-read. I have had this book on my TBR for over a year, so I thought why not and jumped in. I am sure she regretted asking to me to read it immediately, because things went a bit like this:
Ah…this is so sweet I just love them.
"I’ll always take care of you Tweet."
Then things escalated a little bit and I got a tiny bit frustrated. (insert sarcasm)
"Noah deserved perfect because he was, and I was as far from perfect as you could get.”
I think it is safe to say the ranting, cussing, screaming and hitting my Kindle started about here.
“I can’t be around you right now. It hurts too much., because I am so completely and desperately in love with you, Tweet.”
Oh yeah, and go ahead a cue the first set of tears...
So reading this review you are probably thinking why in the hell did this girl this book 5 stars. Here is why. This book totally and completed gutted me. I mean I was talking to myself, ranting to Chris, sobbing, and even laughing at some parts. My ranting was so loud my husband came to bed and asked who I was on the phone with. I told Chris at some point there was no redeeming this girl and I couldn’t believe she put me on this path of destruction. (Yes, I was feeling dramatic.) I was wrong. I won’t spoil, but in my opinion true love wins, true love is unconditional, true love overcomes and true love conquers.
This is story is real life - it isn’t pretty or easy. It is about a girl with a broken self-esteem and guy who loves her regardless of all her imperfections. It is about two people growing up together, loving each other, and trying to figure out what to do next. It is about accepting that things and people will never be perfect, but they can be perfect for you.
This is a beautiful story and while it has wrecked me and left me thinking about it all day, I get that it isn’t for everyone. I repeat my earlier statement this book will test your patience, but if you are up for the challenge it is well worth it.
I will begin by saying this book will test your patience and your resilience as a reader, but when it is all said and done it will be completely worth it.
I read this book last night after my bestie said she needed someone to hold her hand for a re-read. I have had this book on my TBR for over a year, so I thought why not and jumped in. I am sure she regretted asking to me to read it immediately, because things went a bit like this:
Ah…this is so sweet I just love them.
"I’ll always take care of you Tweet."
Then things escalated a little bit and I got a tiny bit frustrated. (insert sarcasm)
"Noah deserved perfect because he was, and I was as far from perfect as you could get.”
I think it is safe to say the ranting, cussing, screaming and hitting my Kindle started about here.
“I can’t be around you right now. It hurts too much., because I am so completely and desperately in love with you, Tweet.”
Oh yeah, and go ahead a cue the first set of tears...
So reading this review you are probably thinking why in the hell did this girl this book 5 stars. Here is why. This book totally and completed gutted me. I mean I was talking to myself, ranting to Chris, sobbing, and even laughing at some parts. My ranting was so loud my husband came to bed and asked who I was on the phone with. I told Chris at some point there was no redeeming this girl and I couldn’t believe she put me on this path of destruction. (Yes, I was feeling dramatic.) I was wrong. I won’t spoil, but in my opinion true love wins, true love is unconditional, true love overcomes and true love conquers.
This is story is real life - it isn’t pretty or easy. It is about a girl with a broken self-esteem and guy who loves her regardless of all her imperfections. It is about two people growing up together, loving each other, and trying to figure out what to do next. It is about accepting that things and people will never be perfect, but they can be perfect for you.
This is a beautiful story and while it has wrecked me and left me thinking about it all day, I get that it isn’t for everyone. I repeat my earlier statement this book will test your patience, but if you are up for the challenge it is well worth it.
August 29, 2013
5 plastic knight in shining armor stars!!
NOAH:
God where to start, coming into this book I thought it was going to be too Y/A for me, but then the story moves along as they get older..And man like me you will all fall in love with everything that is Noah!! Amanda at times did annoy me with her constant pushing of Noah away but putting that aside I can understand her reasoning behind it..
Don't be fooled into getting lulled into a false sense of security reading this book, I went in blind, didn't read any reviews or really took much in of the blurb..I laughed, I swore, I cried!!
So anyone getting ready to read this go grab those tissues because I guarantee this will give those tear ducts a work out!!
Loved, Loved, Loved this book!!
TWEET + MY KNIGHT IN PLASTIC ARMOR
NOAH:
God where to start, coming into this book I thought it was going to be too Y/A for me, but then the story moves along as they get older..And man like me you will all fall in love with everything that is Noah!! Amanda at times did annoy me with her constant pushing of Noah away but putting that aside I can understand her reasoning behind it..
Don't be fooled into getting lulled into a false sense of security reading this book, I went in blind, didn't read any reviews or really took much in of the blurb..I laughed, I swore, I cried!!
So anyone getting ready to read this go grab those tissues because I guarantee this will give those tear ducts a work out!!
Loved, Loved, Loved this book!!
TWEET + MY KNIGHT IN PLASTIC ARMOR
October 28, 2013
MILD SPOILERS -mature content reader discretion is advised.
4.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: New Adult Romance
NOTE TO READERS: This review has mild SPOILERS. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK.
I was so hesitant to start this book after seeing so many conflicting reviews from my friends. After skimming through reviews I bought the book but decided to hold off on reading. Then one day I scrolled through my kindle in search of my next read and there it sat waiting. One tap of my finger and I was reading one the best book openers in 2013.
Noah and Tweet
If the feathers didn’t stick, there’d be no chick.
From day one Amanda and Noah were meant; you read it clear as day that even as children these two had a bond that could not be severed. You think things are going smooth and that a romance would bloom and easily take root however no such luck.. Opposition comes in the form of self doubt.
Amanda has always saw herself as less than or not good enough even as a child. This brings major complications for her future self. The family dynamics Amada has with her parents and sister is very… interesting. I never felt she was unloved or maybe I should say loved any less than her sister though comparisons are made on the two by both the mother and father.
To be or not to be
As teens Noah and Amanda are still the best of friends except with the teen hormones in full effect. They sort of tap dance around liking each other with Amanda holding back completely as Noah pushes for more a then friends title. Amanda pushes back to stay friends; the tug of war goes on for quite some time. But a horny teenage boy can only take no so many times…
“I promised you I’d stay in the friend zone and I will. But the line has already been crossed, Tweet. I wish you’d step over it with me.” -Noah
The tug of war is were some gave up. It is completely frustrating to read about someone rejecting what is so clear to everyone else but I had patience and stuck it out. The fact that Amanda acknowledged her stupidity and her inner voice told her to fight or do what was right gave me hope.
HOPELESS
I suddenly became hopeless as Amanda continued to make bad choices, one after another in succession. She quickly settled for what she thought was good enough. The girl was so ruled by FEAR and DOUBT that she wouldn’t recognize bad if it was spitting in her face and saying bitch I hate you. I cringed, LITERALLY cringed at some of the things that happened to her.
Just when you think it can’t get worse then this…
Bad goes to severely worse with just a few words.
Nothing like life altering moments to bring a pause to the mind and with it comes some perspective maybe even clarity. Well this slowly happens to Amanda.. She realizes she can no longer run from love because EVERY thing he does is with her in mind. Plus a push from a hot guy named Dalton Conner helps her out A LOT
“All we have is the present. The present’s perfect, young grasshopper, because we’re breathing, moving, laughing, crying, and are surprised when we finally meet someone we connect with. Stop living in the past and wasting your present. You need to tell Noah how you feel.”
Such a memorable moment!
FINALLY..Amanda becomes BRAVE!! Confessions with declarations of love flow from her mouth and all I could do is hold my breath and wait. *Grins* How does the saying go? Better late than never, right! RIGHT!!
“I love you. I’ve loved you from the first moment we met. I love you deeper every time I see you. And, I know the timing is awful, but there’s never a perfect time. So, no matter what happens, I needed you to know how I feel.”
Noah
My heart ached for this guy. How he took things in stride and managed to put one foot in front of the other to move on and not be a man whore after pouring out his heart is a true testament to his character. He is one of the sweetest most loving male characters I’ve ever had the pleasure to read about and I am glad I did!
My thoughts
I am so happy I read this book and I want to thank Anna, so much for recommending it to me. To not meet Dalton Conner or Noah Stewart would be a tragedy.
The writing I prefer to love my heroines and that was not the case with this story. I did not hate Amanda, I just did not like her for a big portion of the book. You have to be careful how you write your hero’s and heroine’s it can truly make or break a book. I think Alison Bailey outlined Amanda’s character well enough for you to understand her choices though some may disagree. Either way her refusal to give in and be with Noah will infuriate readers no matter what. I am still unclear on why Amanda’s character took on the role of a woman who becomes so weak when it comes to men. I had a HUGE issue with that but it what it is.
Overall I enjoyed it and I am looking forward to Brad’s book. That teaser at the end… HOLY SH!T.
My Ratings
Characters- Sweet but quite a few will annoy you and one will blow your mind because he is very memorable!
Writing Style-!
Plot/Storyline- Soul mates, friends to lovers, from youth to adulthood.
Steam Factor- Medium/Moderately Steamy on a scale of 1-10 I say 6
Overall- I enjoyed it!!! And am very happy I read it!
Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!
For more reviews got to http://realitybites-letsgetlost.blogs...
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8-12-13 Okay...after reading/skimming a few reviews I've decided to hold off until I am in the proper mood for this book.
****************************************************************
I received two rec's in two days from two trusted friends for this book! *clears throat* MOVES UP to the top of the tbr list!!
4.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: New Adult Romance
NOTE TO READERS: This review has mild SPOILERS. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK.
I was so hesitant to start this book after seeing so many conflicting reviews from my friends. After skimming through reviews I bought the book but decided to hold off on reading. Then one day I scrolled through my kindle in search of my next read and there it sat waiting. One tap of my finger and I was reading one the best book openers in 2013.
Noah and Tweet
If the feathers didn’t stick, there’d be no chick.
From day one Amanda and Noah were meant; you read it clear as day that even as children these two had a bond that could not be severed. You think things are going smooth and that a romance would bloom and easily take root however no such luck.. Opposition comes in the form of self doubt.
Amanda has always saw herself as less than or not good enough even as a child. This brings major complications for her future self. The family dynamics Amada has with her parents and sister is very… interesting. I never felt she was unloved or maybe I should say loved any less than her sister though comparisons are made on the two by both the mother and father.
To be or not to be
As teens Noah and Amanda are still the best of friends except with the teen hormones in full effect. They sort of tap dance around liking each other with Amanda holding back completely as Noah pushes for more a then friends title. Amanda pushes back to stay friends; the tug of war goes on for quite some time. But a horny teenage boy can only take no so many times…
“I promised you I’d stay in the friend zone and I will. But the line has already been crossed, Tweet. I wish you’d step over it with me.” -Noah
The tug of war is were some gave up. It is completely frustrating to read about someone rejecting what is so clear to everyone else but I had patience and stuck it out. The fact that Amanda acknowledged her stupidity and her inner voice told her to fight or do what was right gave me hope.
HOPELESS
I suddenly became hopeless as Amanda continued to make bad choices, one after another in succession. She quickly settled for what she thought was good enough. The girl was so ruled by FEAR and DOUBT that she wouldn’t recognize bad if it was spitting in her face and saying bitch I hate you. I cringed, LITERALLY cringed at some of the things that happened to her.
Just when you think it can’t get worse then this…
Bad goes to severely worse with just a few words.
Nothing like life altering moments to bring a pause to the mind and with it comes some perspective maybe even clarity. Well this slowly happens to Amanda.. She realizes she can no longer run from love because EVERY thing he does is with her in mind. Plus a push from a hot guy named Dalton Conner helps her out A LOT
“All we have is the present. The present’s perfect, young grasshopper, because we’re breathing, moving, laughing, crying, and are surprised when we finally meet someone we connect with. Stop living in the past and wasting your present. You need to tell Noah how you feel.”
Such a memorable moment!
FINALLY..Amanda becomes BRAVE!! Confessions with declarations of love flow from her mouth and all I could do is hold my breath and wait. *Grins* How does the saying go? Better late than never, right! RIGHT!!
“I love you. I’ve loved you from the first moment we met. I love you deeper every time I see you. And, I know the timing is awful, but there’s never a perfect time. So, no matter what happens, I needed you to know how I feel.”
Noah
My heart ached for this guy. How he took things in stride and managed to put one foot in front of the other to move on and not be a man whore after pouring out his heart is a true testament to his character. He is one of the sweetest most loving male characters I’ve ever had the pleasure to read about and I am glad I did!
My thoughts
I am so happy I read this book and I want to thank Anna, so much for recommending it to me. To not meet Dalton Conner or Noah Stewart would be a tragedy.
The writing I prefer to love my heroines and that was not the case with this story. I did not hate Amanda, I just did not like her for a big portion of the book. You have to be careful how you write your hero’s and heroine’s it can truly make or break a book. I think Alison Bailey outlined Amanda’s character well enough for you to understand her choices though some may disagree. Either way her refusal to give in and be with Noah will infuriate readers no matter what. I am still unclear on why Amanda’s character took on the role of a woman who becomes so weak when it comes to men. I had a HUGE issue with that but it what it is.
Overall I enjoyed it and I am looking forward to Brad’s book. That teaser at the end… HOLY SH!T.
My Ratings
Characters- Sweet but quite a few will annoy you and one will blow your mind because he is very memorable!
Writing Style-!
Plot/Storyline- Soul mates, friends to lovers, from youth to adulthood.
Steam Factor- Medium/Moderately Steamy on a scale of 1-10 I say 6
Overall- I enjoyed it!!! And am very happy I read it!
Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!
For more reviews got to http://realitybites-letsgetlost.blogs...
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8-12-13 Okay...after reading/skimming a few reviews I've decided to hold off until I am in the proper mood for this book.
****************************************************************
I received two rec's in two days from two trusted friends for this book! *clears throat* MOVES UP to the top of the tbr list!!
January 29, 2015
I can’t remember that last time that I read a book that has provoked such conflicting emotion for me!
Parts of this book I absolutely adored! Other parts had me fuming and frustrated, and ready to hurl my kindle. And, for me, it wasn’t that awesome angst that I love, it was stupid and pointless angst, angry angst, and I had a lot of trouble with it.
Told from the POV of the heroine, Amanda, she tells the story of her relationship with her best friend, and her knight in plastic armor, Noah. Having known each other since birth, they have been inseparable their entire lives, growing up together, and sharing all of the important firsts. And I was instantly in love with both of them. The stories of them as children were absolutely beautiful, and as they grew older and things between them started to change, I totally found myself crushing on a 14 year old! (which is a little scary!). But Noah is just perfection!
“You’re the first girl I’ve ever noticed and the last girl I’ll ever notice.”
But what should have been a beautiful teen romance never actually happens because, despite how strongly they may feel for each other, Amanda is terrified of a relationship with Noah. Having been raised in her sister’s shadow, she doesn’t feel good enough for him, and she is not willing to take the risk that, should they start a relationship and things go wrong, she could lose the most important person in her life.
And here begins my problem. While, up until this point, I really loved Amanda - I love her voice, and I loved watching her and Noah together, and watch things start to change between them. She just gets really stupid! Sure, I can understand her insecurities, but Noah was constantly reassuring her, and with the intensity of their relationship being what it was, I’m annoyed with her for not trusting that more.
“You’ve always been my girl and always will be. No one will ever take me away from you, Tweet. You’re my heart and soul and that’s never going to change, no matter what you say.”
Let me preface my rant by saying that stupid heroines are like book kryptonite for me. For some reason, I can forgive a hero for pretty much anything, but when those girls bring the stupid - particularly when their behaviour makes a much-loved hero actually cry *sniff* - I get so supremely irritated, it can ruin an entire book for me. And Amanda had so much stupid, she almost managed just that.
Generally, if there's a reason for said stupid behaviour, then yes, I am forgiving, but in this case I just couldn’t feel sorry for her at all. She’s whiny. She's all ‘I'm not perfect like my sister’, ‘I'm not good enough’, ‘he deserves better’, ‘I'll screw it up and our friendship will be ruined’. Bleh. And poor Noah and his heart just get trampled. The boy declares love and keeps telling her over and over how much he cares for her, how awesome she is, and how much he wants her, and she just keeps pushing him away – breaking both of their hearts in the process. And, cry me a freaking river, I could not feel any sympathy towards her for something that is entirely her fault. They both acknowledged how they were feeling, they both wanted it, and Amanda holding Noah close with one hand while pushing him away with the other was beyond infuriating
Because Noah is amazing! He is funny, caring, supportive, protective and loyal, and he is absolutely committed to his Tweet (love that nickname by the way – and the story behind it), no matter how she treated him. And honestly, he is the reason I kept reading.
“You do have me. Every part of me. You always have. You just don’t want me.”
And then to have to listen to her whine about the consequences of her pushing him away, her being so depressed, and then feeling so entitled to heartbreak when he tried to move on with somebody else. Seriously? I just wanted to smack her so bad!
“PLEASE DON’T DO IT, NOAH! PLEASE!”
“WHY NOT?!”
“BECAUSE YOU’RE MINE!” I screamed at him through my sobs.
…
“Then why don’t you fucking take me and stop this bullshit you keep putting us through? You’re going to tell me you’re okay with my hands running up and down her body? Touching her ass and her tits. You’re okay with my tongue licking every inch of her? You’re okay knowing that while you’re over in your bed, I’ll be over here sliding into her, when we both know it should be you?”
He loves her so deeply, and is so open with his feelings, that every time she rejected him, I just wanted to cry. At one point I read a scene that broke my heart so bad, I wasn’t sure I even wanted to read on. It was early in the book, and made me so sad, and I knew it was only going to get worse. I wasn’t sure I could deal with any more. And from that point, as much as I wanted to, I honestly didn’t like her very much.
“I can’t be around you right now. It hurts too much, because I am so completely and desperately in love with you, Tweet … There hasn’t been a day in my life that I haven’t loved you. I wish you would just let me love you.”
The angst continues for much of the book, and my heart broke over and over as Amanda and Noah tried to find their way forward through the ups and downs of life, and the situation between them.
And then, there is a massive shift that takes place in the second half of the book which turns the story absolutely on its head. The ‘romance’ is still very much a part of it, but there are other factors involved which turn this angst-filled teen love story into an emotional rollercoaster that surprised me with its intensity. It felt like I hardly took a breath during the final 30% of the book. It is absolutely beautifully written, and had me tearing up multiple times.
And at this point I need to give a special shout out to the secondary characters in this book – Emily, Brad, Lisa, Amanda’s parents, and particularly Dalton. They were all so well developed, and – love them or hate them – their contributions to the story were really meaningful.
And then, there was that ending. Upon finishing, I would say I felt numb, but it wasn't that. I was so over-emotional that I just didn't know what to do with myself! It wasn’t until I had an extended amount of processing time, (thanks to my venting buddies for listening to my ramblings!), that I could even think about writing a review! I was completely overwhelmed by it all.
The best thing about this book (apart from Noah)? The writing. It’s absolutely fantastic! The friendship between Amanda and Noah is incredible, and really well written, and the emotion is always right there! There is humour, heartbreak, and gut-wrenching sadness, and you feel it all! I thought the subject matter was handled really well, and Amanda’s journal entries at the beginning of each chapter were brilliant. But there was so much of the content of the story that ticked me off so badly, that it almost made me want to put the book down. That makes it a really tricky book to rate – so I’m picking the middle point and trying not to over-analyse it too much.
3 stars.
Parts of this book I absolutely adored! Other parts had me fuming and frustrated, and ready to hurl my kindle. And, for me, it wasn’t that awesome angst that I love, it was stupid and pointless angst, angry angst, and I had a lot of trouble with it.
Told from the POV of the heroine, Amanda, she tells the story of her relationship with her best friend, and her knight in plastic armor, Noah. Having known each other since birth, they have been inseparable their entire lives, growing up together, and sharing all of the important firsts. And I was instantly in love with both of them. The stories of them as children were absolutely beautiful, and as they grew older and things between them started to change, I totally found myself crushing on a 14 year old! (which is a little scary!). But Noah is just perfection!
“You’re the first girl I’ve ever noticed and the last girl I’ll ever notice.”
But what should have been a beautiful teen romance never actually happens because, despite how strongly they may feel for each other, Amanda is terrified of a relationship with Noah. Having been raised in her sister’s shadow, she doesn’t feel good enough for him, and she is not willing to take the risk that, should they start a relationship and things go wrong, she could lose the most important person in her life.
And here begins my problem. While, up until this point, I really loved Amanda - I love her voice, and I loved watching her and Noah together, and watch things start to change between them. She just gets really stupid! Sure, I can understand her insecurities, but Noah was constantly reassuring her, and with the intensity of their relationship being what it was, I’m annoyed with her for not trusting that more.
“You’ve always been my girl and always will be. No one will ever take me away from you, Tweet. You’re my heart and soul and that’s never going to change, no matter what you say.”
Let me preface my rant by saying that stupid heroines are like book kryptonite for me. For some reason, I can forgive a hero for pretty much anything, but when those girls bring the stupid - particularly when their behaviour makes a much-loved hero actually cry *sniff* - I get so supremely irritated, it can ruin an entire book for me. And Amanda had so much stupid, she almost managed just that.
Generally, if there's a reason for said stupid behaviour, then yes, I am forgiving, but in this case I just couldn’t feel sorry for her at all. She’s whiny. She's all ‘I'm not perfect like my sister’, ‘I'm not good enough’, ‘he deserves better’, ‘I'll screw it up and our friendship will be ruined’. Bleh. And poor Noah and his heart just get trampled. The boy declares love and keeps telling her over and over how much he cares for her, how awesome she is, and how much he wants her, and she just keeps pushing him away – breaking both of their hearts in the process. And, cry me a freaking river, I could not feel any sympathy towards her for something that is entirely her fault. They both acknowledged how they were feeling, they both wanted it, and Amanda holding Noah close with one hand while pushing him away with the other was beyond infuriating
Because Noah is amazing! He is funny, caring, supportive, protective and loyal, and he is absolutely committed to his Tweet (love that nickname by the way – and the story behind it), no matter how she treated him. And honestly, he is the reason I kept reading.
“You do have me. Every part of me. You always have. You just don’t want me.”
And then to have to listen to her whine about the consequences of her pushing him away, her being so depressed, and then feeling so entitled to heartbreak when he tried to move on with somebody else. Seriously? I just wanted to smack her so bad!
“PLEASE DON’T DO IT, NOAH! PLEASE!”
“WHY NOT?!”
“BECAUSE YOU’RE MINE!” I screamed at him through my sobs.
…
“Then why don’t you fucking take me and stop this bullshit you keep putting us through? You’re going to tell me you’re okay with my hands running up and down her body? Touching her ass and her tits. You’re okay with my tongue licking every inch of her? You’re okay knowing that while you’re over in your bed, I’ll be over here sliding into her, when we both know it should be you?”
He loves her so deeply, and is so open with his feelings, that every time she rejected him, I just wanted to cry. At one point I read a scene that broke my heart so bad, I wasn’t sure I even wanted to read on. It was early in the book, and made me so sad, and I knew it was only going to get worse. I wasn’t sure I could deal with any more. And from that point, as much as I wanted to, I honestly didn’t like her very much.
“I can’t be around you right now. It hurts too much, because I am so completely and desperately in love with you, Tweet … There hasn’t been a day in my life that I haven’t loved you. I wish you would just let me love you.”
The angst continues for much of the book, and my heart broke over and over as Amanda and Noah tried to find their way forward through the ups and downs of life, and the situation between them.
And then, there is a massive shift that takes place in the second half of the book which turns the story absolutely on its head. The ‘romance’ is still very much a part of it, but there are other factors involved which turn this angst-filled teen love story into an emotional rollercoaster that surprised me with its intensity. It felt like I hardly took a breath during the final 30% of the book. It is absolutely beautifully written, and had me tearing up multiple times.
And at this point I need to give a special shout out to the secondary characters in this book – Emily, Brad, Lisa, Amanda’s parents, and particularly Dalton. They were all so well developed, and – love them or hate them – their contributions to the story were really meaningful.
And then, there was that ending. Upon finishing, I would say I felt numb, but it wasn't that. I was so over-emotional that I just didn't know what to do with myself! It wasn’t until I had an extended amount of processing time, (thanks to my venting buddies for listening to my ramblings!), that I could even think about writing a review! I was completely overwhelmed by it all.
The best thing about this book (apart from Noah)? The writing. It’s absolutely fantastic! The friendship between Amanda and Noah is incredible, and really well written, and the emotion is always right there! There is humour, heartbreak, and gut-wrenching sadness, and you feel it all! I thought the subject matter was handled really well, and Amanda’s journal entries at the beginning of each chapter were brilliant. But there was so much of the content of the story that ticked me off so badly, that it almost made me want to put the book down. That makes it a really tricky book to rate – so I’m picking the middle point and trying not to over-analyse it too much.
3 stars.
August 12, 2013
So about thirty pages into this book it became very, very clear that....
....and now that I have finished I can in fact confirm that......
This book was angsty, emotional, heart breaking, did I say angsty already????......and yes I definitely feel that....
I will endeavour to write a proper review of course, but firstly I must rehydrate after all the crying i have done!!!!
And by rehydrate I mean......
In order to get over the effects of this emotional but BLOODY BRILLIANT IN THE END book!!!
Oh and thank you Lili for this recommendation Hun, I must admit at one point I wanted to smack you around the head and scream "FOR THE MOTHER OF GOD WHY????" at you but now I want to hug you again so we are good my lovely...lol xx
August 10, 2013
Present Perfect is the heartwarming and emotional story of Amanda. A beautiful, complicated girl filled with insecurities after having grown up in her sister's shadow. Amanda wasn't alone though, she had her knight in plastic armor, Noah.
Noah,was always there believing in her. Her best friend.
Except there were so many more feelings than those of pure friendship. They were soul mates in the truest form of the sense. They experienced everything together. Amanda believing she isn't good enough for him and fearing losing him, refuses to take their friendship to the next level. Soon life takes over and the chain of events that take place will make you think twice about what's truly important in life.
Their story consumed me from the beginning and was so much more than I was expecting. It made me feel every emotion possible. I laughed, I cried, I was angry, and emotional. Their was great dialogue and character development. The writing in this book amazing. If only I could give this book more than 5 stars. I recommend this book to everyone. I think sometimes we all forget what's really important in life and need a small reminder.
April 21, 2022
I had a day to think about this. I originally gave the book 3 stars, but that would insinuate that I liked it. I didn't. It was just "OK" for me.
As far as writing goes. This was hands down 5+++ stars.
The story itself just wasn't for me. It started out strong the first 20% I felt an instant connection and all the wonderful sweetness and angst that came with these two. I was in book heaven.
Then....
Amanda's character annoyed the ever loving crap out of me. This was the entire relationship between Amanda and Noah.
"I'm not good enough, we're just friends, I'm jealous, but I'm not good enough" and then they would cry. Over and over and over again. Ive never seen so much boy/girl crying in my life.
At some point I expected things to change or progress, something.... anything. But, I got nothing.
Just a different scene with the same outcome. Although it annoyed me, I decide to push through and see where this story of their relationship is going because it has to go somewhere, right?
She gets cancer. By this point, I already dislike her character and so I have zero pity for her. She's more of a villain than a victim to me.
The rest of the book is all about her leg and whatever. I don't know. I just kinda skimmed at this point. she was still a royal bitch and cried every five seconds.
It felt like I started reading a romance novel that got cut off halfway then, boom I'm in another book. Which I could care less about because I was more interested in their relationship than her damn leg. Maybe I'd feel differently about it if I liked the heroine. I don't know. It just wasn't my cuppa.
Sorry!! I know everyone loved this book. But I have to be honest in my reviews.
As far as writing goes. This was hands down 5+++ stars.
The story itself just wasn't for me. It started out strong the first 20% I felt an instant connection and all the wonderful sweetness and angst that came with these two. I was in book heaven.
Then....
Amanda's character annoyed the ever loving crap out of me. This was the entire relationship between Amanda and Noah.
"I'm not good enough, we're just friends, I'm jealous, but I'm not good enough" and then they would cry. Over and over and over again. Ive never seen so much boy/girl crying in my life.
At some point I expected things to change or progress, something.... anything. But, I got nothing.
Just a different scene with the same outcome. Although it annoyed me, I decide to push through and see where this story of their relationship is going because it has to go somewhere, right?
She gets cancer. By this point, I already dislike her character and so I have zero pity for her. She's more of a villain than a victim to me.
The rest of the book is all about her leg and whatever. I don't know. I just kinda skimmed at this point. she was still a royal bitch and cried every five seconds.
It felt like I started reading a romance novel that got cut off halfway then, boom I'm in another book. Which I could care less about because I was more interested in their relationship than her damn leg. Maybe I'd feel differently about it if I liked the heroine. I don't know. It just wasn't my cuppa.
Sorry!! I know everyone loved this book. But I have to be honest in my reviews.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2013
Even when I was supposed to like Amanda I just couldn't let go of my ANGER towards her.
I'm working on what to say because Noah and Dalton were fantastic but I just hated Amanda. I must have yelled at my Nook a million times. She NEVER did want I wanted till 89 percent in the book.
Truthfully, I never shed a tear for Amanda. I did however cry for Noah and his CONSTANT rejection by Amanda.
I guess I'm still processing this one...
I'm working on what to say because Noah and Dalton were fantastic but I just hated Amanda. I must have yelled at my Nook a million times. She NEVER did want I wanted till 89 percent in the book.
Truthfully, I never shed a tear for Amanda. I did however cry for Noah and his CONSTANT rejection by Amanda.
I guess I'm still processing this one...
August 15, 2013
5 Perfect Stars!!
Its really been a while that a book has hooked me like this and while I hardly got any sleep last night, I certainly will not complain!!
This book is such an emotional collercoaster and YES! The journey is worth the ride.
Feelings so raw and real...
"I’ve been unsure about many things in my life except that I have always loved him. Every single minute of every single day that I have been on this earth, my heart has belonged to him. It has never been a question, never a doubt. The love had taken on many different forms over the years, but it had always been a constant."
When you start reading this you get the feel as if its just another teen drama which got me angry and screaming at my iPad at times and when you least expect it, there is a sudden twist!!!
So many emotions flowed through me.
It made me laugh, smile, blush, got me angry and ranting then brought me to tears and last but not least it filled my heart with Love...
Noah and Amanda have been the best of friends forever..
When I say forever I mean from the time they could walk.
They were first everything..
Until they grow older and their feelings start to develop and suddenly they seeing each other in a whole new light.
Amanda has never been perfect, her sister Emily was the perfect one or so Amanda's been told.
What this does is causes her to feel inadequate and not good enough.
So when she starts developing feelings for Noah she must push them aside because to her she will never be good enough for him.
Noah... Bless this boys kind soul. He never hid his feelings from Amanda, not at all... Even when Amanda had this crazy notion that she could not date him because it 'could ruin the friendship' he didn't agree...
"No matter how hard you try to move on, sometimes forces beyond your control won’t let you."
So.. We see how Amanda had to let Noah go and watch him be with someone else. This tore my heart into shreads and had me so angry.
"We set limits for ourselves all the time. This imaginary line that you’re positive you won’t ever cross. An action that you are positive you would never do, no matter what. But what we don’t consider when we draw our line is a change in our situation."
I admit I didn't not agree with Amanda A LOT but I felt for this poor soul all the way...
Its such a shame that so much time was wasted because these two were soooo in Love with each other...
"Most people would jump at the chance for that much happiness, but not me. The more happiness you have, the more devastating the fall is, and there is always a fall, a crash,, or a collision of some kind. With all consuming, earth shattering happiness, there are always casualties, it’s unavoidable."
Here comes the unexpected heart wrenching twist.
I seriously didn't see this coming...
Bravo to the author for this!!!
This capured my soul I swear and brought me to tears more than once.
"The problem is you can’t reason with loss, you can only feel it. No matter how valid your reasons, they don’t stop you from hurting and mourning the loss"
This book isn't a fairytale, its heartbreaking along the way.
Life is painful and hard...
Things we never think about happen to young people and at these times we finally see who is important to us and how short life really is.
"In ten seconds, the length of time it takes for a doctor to tell you your diagnosis, you go from thinking the world is full of an infinite amount of time to realizing nothing in this world is infinite."
So life isn't perfect, it isn't easy..
There are no hearts and flowers and pink ponys.
But if you let the love you deserve into your life.. It almost makes everything else okay!
Recommended to everyone!!!
"The only thing perfect is our present because we’re breathing, moving, loving, feeling. And we’re able to let the people in our lives know how much they mean to us.”
August 4, 2013
Holy. Shit. I'M IN A GLASS CASE OF EMOTION!
Honestly, I'm not the most emotional person, so when this book had me awake at 4:30am sobbing, I knew it was something special. I didn't realize how much I needed this book until it was over. I'm always surprised by a good "book therapy" session and that's exactly what Present Prefect* was for me. At times I seriously thought my heart was going to explode from all the love and adorable moments that this story possessed. Other times I was so overwhelmed with emotion that the term "ugly cry" was not even close to describe the state I was in. When I finished the book I immediately texted Brittany and Rhiannon to tell them they NEEDED to read it! However, in my crazed book hangover state I failed to realize it was 6am...on a Saturday...sorry ladies :)
"If there's no such thing as perfect then, why does the word exist?"
Present Perfect follows the life, love and friendship of best friends, Amanda (aka Tweet) Kelly and Noah Stewart. You literally are a part of all the milestones of the first quarter of their lives. Witnessing Noah and Tweet's friendship and love grow stronger and stronger with each year, along with Bailey's engaging and relatable writing, made it IMPOSSIBLE to not be completely 100% invested in these characters and their beautiful story. I personally love when books take place over a long period of time. Not only do you get to see the characters grow and (hopefully) mature, but you get to experience more with them. I always feel like I have a stronger connection to characters and understand them better when I know them over longer periods of time. Wow, that was a total book nerd revelation....
"I'll always take care of you and make sure you have candy, Tweet."
I loved the early chapters of Amanda and Noah's childhood. From trick or treating at age 6 (when you find out how Amanda comes to be known as Tweet), to Noah caring for her after she takes a spill of her bike at age 8. Bailey did such a perfect job portraying the love that these two share for each other even at such an early age. I mean it's obviously true love if you are willing to share your halloween candy and chocolate cake (at any age really...).
"You've always been my girl and always will be. No one will ever take me away from you, Tweet. You're my heart and soul and that's never going to change, no matter what you say."
As Tweet and Noah mature with each chapter so does the tone of the book. It seamlessly transitions from YA to NA as these two grow and enter different stages of their lives. At times the chemistry and angst between these two was more than I could bear. On more than one occasion I found myself holding my breath with anticipation. Their chemistry was OUT. OF. CONTROL.
"There hasn't been a day in my life that I haven't loved you. I wish you would just let me love you."
I don't think Noah Stewart could have been more perfect. At every age he was charming, protective, unbelievably sweet and as he grew up, he turned down right swoon-worthy. But I think my favorite Noah quality (besides the baby blue eyes and athletic body) was his honesty. From the beginning he was always honest and open about his feelings for Amanda. There was very little of that annoying misinterpretation and miscommunication that usually takes place in these kind of romantic situations. Noah and Amanda's friendship is tested countless times, but his feelings and intentions were always crystal clear to me!
"I need you in my life."
"I need you in mine, too."
"Be my friend," I said
"Always."
Unfortunately, due to Amanda's insecurities that step out of the "friend zone" does not happen very easily for these two. I'm sure most of you will want to give Amanda a good shake and I'll admit I wanted to at times, but I actually really connected with Amanda and understood her reservations. If anything I found it heartbreaking that she couldn't see herself the way Noah saw her. As much as I wanted them together, I understood why she was so terrified to lose Noah as a friend and wanted to preserve that amazing friendship. Plus lets be honest, if everyone got their wish and these two lived happily ever after at 16, the book would be boring (not to mention hella short).
"Well, dammit all to hell. If that isn't the sweetest fucking thing I've ever heard of. I think I just had a little orgasm."
Even though I was completely consumed with Noah and Amanda, I can't not mention some of the other remarkable characters that played a vital role in their story. Dalton Connor may just be one of my most favorite characters of all time. He was hilarious, heartbreaking and so, SO wise. I think every person could learn a thing or two from Dalton about how to live their lives. Also Brad Johnson was an extremely interesting character. I promise you will absolutely love to HATE him... and seriously fucking hate him at times. I cannot wait to read Brad's story in Bailey's next book, Past Imperfect.
"Ah young grasshopper...perfection is an illusion nurtured by insecurities."
My only complaint about this book is the cover. First of all, in NO way or form does it do the book justice. Secondly, I found the cover model to be a little distracting with those photoshopped eyes, and it really was not how I pictured Tweet to look like in real life. I personally like when covers are more abstract. Unless you find the perfect cover model (which has been done before...i.e Hopeless & the Avoiding Series) I think it should be up to the reader to visualize what the characters faces look like.
"The only thing perfect is our present because we're breathing, moving, loving, feeling. And we're able to let the people in our lives know how much they mean to us."
Ok, so this is my plea to you before you read this unbelievable book. PLEASE trust the author and DON'T skip ahead to read the ending. One of us here at F&F (ahem, BRITTANY) skips to the last page when she is feeling "anxious" and it drives me INSANE. There will be times in the book that your heart will be so broken you don't know if you can (or want) to keep reading. There were times when I was crying so hard I couldn't see the screen of my kindle. Other times my cheeks hurt because I was smiling so hard. So have a little faith, please.. I promise when you finish this book your heart will be so full. You may need a glass of wine, or in my case, a glass of wine and some ice cream at 9:00am to help recover. But the emotional ride is SO worth it!
Reviewed by Abby for www.FictionandFashion.com
*ARC provided by Author for an honest review.
Honestly, I'm not the most emotional person, so when this book had me awake at 4:30am sobbing, I knew it was something special. I didn't realize how much I needed this book until it was over. I'm always surprised by a good "book therapy" session and that's exactly what Present Prefect* was for me. At times I seriously thought my heart was going to explode from all the love and adorable moments that this story possessed. Other times I was so overwhelmed with emotion that the term "ugly cry" was not even close to describe the state I was in. When I finished the book I immediately texted Brittany and Rhiannon to tell them they NEEDED to read it! However, in my crazed book hangover state I failed to realize it was 6am...on a Saturday...sorry ladies :)
"If there's no such thing as perfect then, why does the word exist?"
Present Perfect follows the life, love and friendship of best friends, Amanda (aka Tweet) Kelly and Noah Stewart. You literally are a part of all the milestones of the first quarter of their lives. Witnessing Noah and Tweet's friendship and love grow stronger and stronger with each year, along with Bailey's engaging and relatable writing, made it IMPOSSIBLE to not be completely 100% invested in these characters and their beautiful story. I personally love when books take place over a long period of time. Not only do you get to see the characters grow and (hopefully) mature, but you get to experience more with them. I always feel like I have a stronger connection to characters and understand them better when I know them over longer periods of time. Wow, that was a total book nerd revelation....
"I'll always take care of you and make sure you have candy, Tweet."
I loved the early chapters of Amanda and Noah's childhood. From trick or treating at age 6 (when you find out how Amanda comes to be known as Tweet), to Noah caring for her after she takes a spill of her bike at age 8. Bailey did such a perfect job portraying the love that these two share for each other even at such an early age. I mean it's obviously true love if you are willing to share your halloween candy and chocolate cake (at any age really...).
"You've always been my girl and always will be. No one will ever take me away from you, Tweet. You're my heart and soul and that's never going to change, no matter what you say."
As Tweet and Noah mature with each chapter so does the tone of the book. It seamlessly transitions from YA to NA as these two grow and enter different stages of their lives. At times the chemistry and angst between these two was more than I could bear. On more than one occasion I found myself holding my breath with anticipation. Their chemistry was OUT. OF. CONTROL.
"There hasn't been a day in my life that I haven't loved you. I wish you would just let me love you."
I don't think Noah Stewart could have been more perfect. At every age he was charming, protective, unbelievably sweet and as he grew up, he turned down right swoon-worthy. But I think my favorite Noah quality (besides the baby blue eyes and athletic body) was his honesty. From the beginning he was always honest and open about his feelings for Amanda. There was very little of that annoying misinterpretation and miscommunication that usually takes place in these kind of romantic situations. Noah and Amanda's friendship is tested countless times, but his feelings and intentions were always crystal clear to me!
"I need you in my life."
"I need you in mine, too."
"Be my friend," I said
"Always."
Unfortunately, due to Amanda's insecurities that step out of the "friend zone" does not happen very easily for these two. I'm sure most of you will want to give Amanda a good shake and I'll admit I wanted to at times, but I actually really connected with Amanda and understood her reservations. If anything I found it heartbreaking that she couldn't see herself the way Noah saw her. As much as I wanted them together, I understood why she was so terrified to lose Noah as a friend and wanted to preserve that amazing friendship. Plus lets be honest, if everyone got their wish and these two lived happily ever after at 16, the book would be boring (not to mention hella short).
"Well, dammit all to hell. If that isn't the sweetest fucking thing I've ever heard of. I think I just had a little orgasm."
Even though I was completely consumed with Noah and Amanda, I can't not mention some of the other remarkable characters that played a vital role in their story. Dalton Connor may just be one of my most favorite characters of all time. He was hilarious, heartbreaking and so, SO wise. I think every person could learn a thing or two from Dalton about how to live their lives. Also Brad Johnson was an extremely interesting character. I promise you will absolutely love to HATE him... and seriously fucking hate him at times. I cannot wait to read Brad's story in Bailey's next book, Past Imperfect.
"Ah young grasshopper...perfection is an illusion nurtured by insecurities."
My only complaint about this book is the cover. First of all, in NO way or form does it do the book justice. Secondly, I found the cover model to be a little distracting with those photoshopped eyes, and it really was not how I pictured Tweet to look like in real life. I personally like when covers are more abstract. Unless you find the perfect cover model (which has been done before...i.e Hopeless & the Avoiding Series) I think it should be up to the reader to visualize what the characters faces look like.
"The only thing perfect is our present because we're breathing, moving, loving, feeling. And we're able to let the people in our lives know how much they mean to us."
Ok, so this is my plea to you before you read this unbelievable book. PLEASE trust the author and DON'T skip ahead to read the ending. One of us here at F&F (ahem, BRITTANY) skips to the last page when she is feeling "anxious" and it drives me INSANE. There will be times in the book that your heart will be so broken you don't know if you can (or want) to keep reading. There were times when I was crying so hard I couldn't see the screen of my kindle. Other times my cheeks hurt because I was smiling so hard. So have a little faith, please.. I promise when you finish this book your heart will be so full. You may need a glass of wine, or in my case, a glass of wine and some ice cream at 9:00am to help recover. But the emotional ride is SO worth it!
Reviewed by Abby for www.FictionandFashion.com
*ARC provided by Author for an honest review.
Read
August 22, 2013DNF @ 20%
I tried, I really did, but this just isn’t for me. After picking it up several times I still can’t manage to make it past the 20% mark. It’s disappointing because I actually like the author’s writing, but Amanda worked every last good nerve I have and I don’t want to watch her jerk Noah around for the remainder of the book. And I don't want to see him hook up with other girls until she finally pulls her head out and accepts his righteous love! For the sake of my loved ones, I'm skipping it.
I tried, I really did, but this just isn’t for me. After picking it up several times I still can’t manage to make it past the 20% mark. It’s disappointing because I actually like the author’s writing, but Amanda worked every last good nerve I have and I don’t want to watch her jerk Noah around for the remainder of the book. And I don't want to see him hook up with other girls until she finally pulls her head out and accepts his righteous love! For the sake of my loved ones, I'm skipping it.
August 10, 2013
WARNING #1: This book will screw with your mind.
WARNING #2: I wasn't kidding. It really will.
This book starts out as a lovely narrative about a girl who grows up side-by-side with a boy.
Amanda and Noah. Friends forever. *throws flower petals into the air*
Unfortunately, said girl grows up to realise that uncomplicated platonic friendships that result in endless days of sunshine and rainbows only exist on My Little Pony and The Saddle Club.
And suddenly she's afraid to take that step towards more. Because it could mean losing everything.
Can I just say that all the 'screw with your mind stuff' stems from one person only?
If we can call him a person. More like a spineless no-good slimeball with slime for brains! (Yep, my insults are just that good. Aren't I a talented young woman?!)
Because what kind of guy is all:
Girl: Are you dating her?
Guy: Look, I don't like her. But I have needs.
Girl: So wait. You're telling me that we're best friends...
Guy: Yep.
Girl: And that you're in love with me?
Guy: Totally.
Girl: And yet you're getting your 'needs' fulfilled by a long line of witchy women who for some reason all seem to have extremely low IQs and give you ridiculous nicknames?!
Guy: Ah...yep. Yep, that's it in a nutshell.
All because she is too scared to truly face her feelings he decides that, to hell with this - I'm going to date girls for the hell of it! Woo-hoo!
WARNING #3: Just wait. It gets better.
But then this spineless no-good slimeball with slime for brains decides that he is the...*drum roll*
PROTECTOR OF HIS BEST FRIEND! BOYFRIEND REPELLANT! POTENTIAL DATE BASHER!
(And also one rant away from being locked up in juvie, but hey, let's just ignore that small detail! Right?)
Every time Amanda tries to move on, or to pull her life together, or to get over seeing him slobber all over another girl - every time a guy comes within a six metre radius of her - Noah rocks up all Alpha Male and totally beats the hell out of the guy.
Sooooooo attractive, right? We all understand what Amanda sees in Noah.
*squints*
*tilts head*
*blinks*
Ah...nope. Nope, I'm not seeing whatever it is she's seeing.
Sure, he was a cute kid. Childhood memories and all that stuff. And sure, he brings her chocolate cake...
WARNING #4: Boys will worm their way into your life using chocolate cake. It's a ruse! DESTROY THE CAKE!
But this book takes this mind-screwing to another level.
Just when you thought it couldn't get any worse.
Every. Single. Damn. Time. She. Tries. To. Take. That. Step. He. Stuffs. Up.
Again. Every single time. It's either:
"Oh, sorry for snogging that girl when I was just confessing my undying love for you five seconds ago, Amanda!"
OR
"Let me just sit here and flirt with you, Amanda, when we both know I have a clingy girlfriend waiting for me back at my apartment."
OR
"You're everything to me...oh, hang on, my girlfriend just arrived."
Noah is gorgeous. But he also at Level 10 of Douchedom.
WARNING #5: If it's male, don't trust it.
And then the book gets even better!! Wait for it...wait for it...Amanda
Yes, you read correctly. Because we haven't got enough drama going on, do we?!
Seriously...I'm going to be serious now. I liked this book. I cried. I laughed.
But I also couldn't understand why the characters were so...volatile.
I mean, no one talks normally in this book. Well, at least, Noah and Amanda don't. It's all:
"LEAVE ME ALONE!"
"DO YOU LOVE ME YES OR NO?!"
"I CAN'T BE WITH YOU! LEAVE ME!"
"YOU CAN'T HAVE HIM HE'S MINE!"
"GET OFF HER, YOU ********! DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT TOUCHING HER!"
WARNING #6: The use of caps lock in this book may overwhelm you.
I mean, aren't their throats sore?
Wouldn't yours be if you yelled as much as these two do? Maybe that's a trivial thing to be thinking about but hey - it's a valid question!
So in conclusion:
- Girl meets guy
- Girl is friends with guy
- Girl loves guy
- Girl won't admit she loves guy
- Guy admits he loves girl
- Girl wants to stay 'in the friend zone'
- Guy doesn't like said 'friend zone' because he is a slimy slimeball
- Girl and Guy needlessly torture one another over a span of many years
- Girl and Guy needlessly torture you over a span of many hours of reading
- Girls
- Girl and Guy still have complicated relationship
- Are still firmly in the non-existant 'friend zone'
- The term 'friend zone' is beginning to annoy all involved
- Girl has REVELATION!
(Which, you know, she could have had, like, ten years ago, but whose counting?!)
- Girl and Guy get together
- Girl gets over
- You think this is the end
- Girl
- Girl
- Girl survives everything and lives happily ever after with the slimy sod named Noah.
- Noah survives everything, gets what he wants, and lives happily ever after with Amanda.
THE END
Thanks for putting up with my rant & for being wonderful bookworms! :)
WARNING #2: I wasn't kidding. It really will.
This book starts out as a lovely narrative about a girl who grows up side-by-side with a boy.
Amanda and Noah. Friends forever. *throws flower petals into the air*
Unfortunately, said girl grows up to realise that uncomplicated platonic friendships that result in endless days of sunshine and rainbows only exist on My Little Pony and The Saddle Club.
And suddenly she's afraid to take that step towards more. Because it could mean losing everything.
Can I just say that all the 'screw with your mind stuff' stems from one person only?
If we can call him a person. More like a spineless no-good slimeball with slime for brains! (Yep, my insults are just that good. Aren't I a talented young woman?!)
Because what kind of guy is all:
Girl: Are you dating her?
Guy: Look, I don't like her. But I have needs.
Girl: So wait. You're telling me that we're best friends...
Guy: Yep.
Girl: And that you're in love with me?
Guy: Totally.
Girl: And yet you're getting your 'needs' fulfilled by a long line of witchy women who for some reason all seem to have extremely low IQs and give you ridiculous nicknames?!
Guy: Ah...yep. Yep, that's it in a nutshell.
All because she is too scared to truly face her feelings he decides that, to hell with this - I'm going to date girls for the hell of it! Woo-hoo!
WARNING #3: Just wait. It gets better.
But then this spineless no-good slimeball with slime for brains decides that he is the...*drum roll*
PROTECTOR OF HIS BEST FRIEND! BOYFRIEND REPELLANT! POTENTIAL DATE BASHER!
(And also one rant away from being locked up in juvie, but hey, let's just ignore that small detail! Right?)
Every time Amanda tries to move on, or to pull her life together, or to get over seeing him slobber all over another girl - every time a guy comes within a six metre radius of her - Noah rocks up all Alpha Male and totally beats the hell out of the guy.
Sooooooo attractive, right? We all understand what Amanda sees in Noah.
*squints*
*tilts head*
*blinks*
Ah...nope. Nope, I'm not seeing whatever it is she's seeing.
Sure, he was a cute kid. Childhood memories and all that stuff. And sure, he brings her chocolate cake...
WARNING #4: Boys will worm their way into your life using chocolate cake. It's a ruse! DESTROY THE CAKE!
But this book takes this mind-screwing to another level.
Just when you thought it couldn't get any worse.
Every. Single. Damn. Time. She. Tries. To. Take. That. Step. He. Stuffs. Up.
Again. Every single time. It's either:
"Oh, sorry for snogging that girl when I was just confessing my undying love for you five seconds ago, Amanda!"
OR
"Let me just sit here and flirt with you, Amanda, when we both know I have a clingy girlfriend waiting for me back at my apartment."
OR
"You're everything to me...oh, hang on, my girlfriend just arrived."
Noah is gorgeous. But he also at Level 10 of Douchedom.
WARNING #5: If it's male, don't trust it.
And then the book gets even better!! Wait for it...wait for it...Amanda
Yes, you read correctly. Because we haven't got enough drama going on, do we?!
Seriously...I'm going to be serious now. I liked this book. I cried. I laughed.
But I also couldn't understand why the characters were so...volatile.
I mean, no one talks normally in this book. Well, at least, Noah and Amanda don't. It's all:
"LEAVE ME ALONE!"
"DO YOU LOVE ME YES OR NO?!"
"I CAN'T BE WITH YOU! LEAVE ME!"
"YOU CAN'T HAVE HIM HE'S MINE!"
"GET OFF HER, YOU ********! DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT TOUCHING HER!"
WARNING #6: The use of caps lock in this book may overwhelm you.
I mean, aren't their throats sore?
Wouldn't yours be if you yelled as much as these two do? Maybe that's a trivial thing to be thinking about but hey - it's a valid question!
So in conclusion:
- Girl meets guy
- Girl is friends with guy
- Girl loves guy
- Girl won't admit she loves guy
- Guy admits he loves girl
- Girl wants to stay 'in the friend zone'
- Guy doesn't like said 'friend zone' because he is a slimy slimeball
- Girl and Guy needlessly torture one another over a span of many years
- Girl and Guy needlessly torture you over a span of many hours of reading
- Girls
- Girl and Guy still have complicated relationship
- Are still firmly in the non-existant 'friend zone'
- The term 'friend zone' is beginning to annoy all involved
- Girl has REVELATION!
(Which, you know, she could have had, like, ten years ago, but whose counting?!)
- Girl and Guy get together
- Girl gets over
- You think this is the end
- Girl
- Girl
- Girl survives everything and lives happily ever after with the slimy sod named Noah.
- Noah survives everything, gets what he wants, and lives happily ever after with Amanda.
THE END
Thanks for putting up with my rant & for being wonderful bookworms! :)
August 12, 2013
Present Perfect by Alison G Bailey
5 my tear ducts are empty emotional stars!!
“I’ve been unsure about many things in my life except that I have always loved him. Every single minute of every single day that I have been on this earth, my heart has belonged to him. It has never been a question, never a doubt. The love had taken on many different forms over the years, but it had always been a constant.”
OMG…this has got to be one of the most emotional books I have ever read!! I was crying when I didn’t even know why I was crying, it was that emotional. I have never cried so much over a book. I think that this had a profound effect on me because I could relate to some of the subject matter, so I could see a lot of myself on the page and that kind of made it personal.
Amanda was born on 23/03/90 at 10.57pm, Noah was born 23/03/90 at 10.58pm, other than the 1 minute that separated their births, they had always been together. They had shared all their firsts, first teeth, smile and words. They crawled at the same time and took their first steps together. They were always together. They grew up as best friends, they were soul mates, they were inextricably linked to each other and their bond was fierce. No one could come between them.
Amanda or Tweet as Noah lovingly referred to her was a second child, she had an older sister who was “perfect,” she was constantly being compared to her and in her eyes she failed miserably. How could you compete with perfect looking, perfect grades, perfect at sport, perfect at dancing, just perfect at EVERYTHING!! This was not some feel sorry for me phase, her parents constantly compared the two and whether they meant to or not that always made Amanda feel inferior. In fact, this was so ingrained into her growing up that she was terribly insecure. She had no self-confidence whatsoever.
Noah was A-MAZ-ING, I just love him soooooooo much, every girl should have a Noah. He loved Amanda no matter what, she was his Tweet. He was always there for her, always looking out for her, they had “their spot” where they would put the worlds to rights and they told each other everything. They were as close as two BFF’s together could ever be. It was a beautiful friendship.
This story takes us on the journey of how Amanda and Noah’s friendship develops, their journey through life, to their teenage years. This is when the lines become a bit blurred, hormones come into being and suddenly both of them are seeing each other in different light. Suddenly, bums and boobs are noticed, abs and cute bums and Amanda has a hard time coming to terms with her “new”feelings for Noah. Noah on the other hand has no problem what so ever of embracing his new found love for Tweet. He tells her enough, but in Tweets eyes, she is not good enough for him, he deserves better. Noah is gorgeous, he is popular, the girls love him, they all wanted him, but he never acted upon their advances, he was saving himself for Tweet. He tried and tried to get her to see that their relationship was worth a try, but Tweet valued their friendship too much and did not want to put that in jeopardy should anything in their relationship go wrong, so she pushed and pushed and pushed until he finally relented and started dating. This however did not go down well with Tweet, while she didn’t want him, she didn’t want anyone else to have him either and the green eyed monster was constantly apparent. This actually managed to cause friction in their friendship and this is where the cracks started to appear and this is where I started crying the most!
“Tweet.” His voice was low and raspy.
“Yeah?” I said trying to keep my voice steady.
“Tonight was amaz…,” he paused. “You’re amazing.”
“Noah…” I trailed off as I choked back a sob.
“I wish you believed it,” he said. He left without saying another word.
Standing alone, watching him walk away, the only thought running through my mind was, I wished I believed it too, so I could be your girlfriend.
Noah knows what Tweet is doing and he only ever has casual dates for quite a while, he still tries to chip away at Tweets resolve in the hope that he can break through her walls of doom and gloom and get her to see that they are so compatible. It is like they were destined to be together forever. I must admit, Tweet did begin to annoy me, I was getting very angry with her at one point. I just felt like screaming at the kindle saying “open your god damn eyes and smell the coffee, he loves you, he is devoted to you, did you not see the stars, moons and plants align when you two were born FGS!!!” It is obvious to everyone and I mean everyone that they should be together but Tweet just does not get it AT ALL!! She loves him with all her being, but she just cannot get over the potential of losing him, so rather than take the chance she would rather go without.
“I can’t be around you right now. It hurts too much, because I am so completely and desperately in love with you Tweet.”…
“There hasn’t been a day in my life that I haven’t loved you. I wish you would just let me love you.”…
“You will always be the most important thing in my life. I’ll always be there for you no matter what or who. I have no past without you and I can’t imagine a future that doesn’t include you. I just need some time to figure out how I can have you in my life without having you be my life.”
There my heart breaks, yes I watched it splinter and shatter into smithereens and the waterworks from them on were on constant!! He put his heart and soul out there!!
They always shared their firsts and there was one first they didn’t and this severely crippled me, I would have thought that somehow this could have been written in, but alas no!! What happened with Tweet broke my heart and I don’t think I ever truly recovered after that.
They do go their separate ways as they go to college, not speaking, this breaks them both and it shattered any tiny bit of resolve I had left…I just continued to cry…and cry…and cry…things happen, life goes on….miserably…and I cry, yes I am still crying…did I say I was still crying….yep still crying (you get the gist).
Then Alison Bailey throws the curve ball, whoa!! I did not see that coming….I cannot say anymore…I am too emotional, too heart broken, too devastated, too emotionally spent, just too OMG OMG OMG.
This story was truly amazing, I felt everything, I could not put it down, I read it in one sitting, I inhaled it, I must be a sadist because it killed me, but it was one of those books that even though it was emotionally exhausting, you had to see it through to the end. Nothing I could write could possibly describe the number that this book did to me. It will forever be imprinted in my memory and in my heart. I totally adored this book!!
There are some amazing side characters in this book and am hoping that their stories are told so that I can continue to read about this couple.
I can’t believe that this is a debut book and all hats off to Alison Bailey, she did a fantastic job, the book is just WOW!!
I highlighted almost all this book, so I will leave you with another quote:-
“I wasted so much time and hurt you.”
“Nothing has ever been a waste when it comes to you. Not my time, my thoughts, or my heart. I don’t regret anything about my life with you, even the times we were apart. Those times showed me how much I belonged to you. I knew we would be together one day. I just had to be patient and wait. And you were so worth waiting for.”
I totally freaking loved this book, go forth and 1click, pick up a box of tissues and a big fat carton of ice cream and read. I’ll be here waiting for the counselling sessions to start…I have big shoulders, we can have a mutual sob fest!!
Totally and utterly amazeballs!!
www.theromancecover.com
5 my tear ducts are empty emotional stars!!
“I’ve been unsure about many things in my life except that I have always loved him. Every single minute of every single day that I have been on this earth, my heart has belonged to him. It has never been a question, never a doubt. The love had taken on many different forms over the years, but it had always been a constant.”
OMG…this has got to be one of the most emotional books I have ever read!! I was crying when I didn’t even know why I was crying, it was that emotional. I have never cried so much over a book. I think that this had a profound effect on me because I could relate to some of the subject matter, so I could see a lot of myself on the page and that kind of made it personal.
Amanda was born on 23/03/90 at 10.57pm, Noah was born 23/03/90 at 10.58pm, other than the 1 minute that separated their births, they had always been together. They had shared all their firsts, first teeth, smile and words. They crawled at the same time and took their first steps together. They were always together. They grew up as best friends, they were soul mates, they were inextricably linked to each other and their bond was fierce. No one could come between them.
Amanda or Tweet as Noah lovingly referred to her was a second child, she had an older sister who was “perfect,” she was constantly being compared to her and in her eyes she failed miserably. How could you compete with perfect looking, perfect grades, perfect at sport, perfect at dancing, just perfect at EVERYTHING!! This was not some feel sorry for me phase, her parents constantly compared the two and whether they meant to or not that always made Amanda feel inferior. In fact, this was so ingrained into her growing up that she was terribly insecure. She had no self-confidence whatsoever.
Noah was A-MAZ-ING, I just love him soooooooo much, every girl should have a Noah. He loved Amanda no matter what, she was his Tweet. He was always there for her, always looking out for her, they had “their spot” where they would put the worlds to rights and they told each other everything. They were as close as two BFF’s together could ever be. It was a beautiful friendship.
This story takes us on the journey of how Amanda and Noah’s friendship develops, their journey through life, to their teenage years. This is when the lines become a bit blurred, hormones come into being and suddenly both of them are seeing each other in different light. Suddenly, bums and boobs are noticed, abs and cute bums and Amanda has a hard time coming to terms with her “new”feelings for Noah. Noah on the other hand has no problem what so ever of embracing his new found love for Tweet. He tells her enough, but in Tweets eyes, she is not good enough for him, he deserves better. Noah is gorgeous, he is popular, the girls love him, they all wanted him, but he never acted upon their advances, he was saving himself for Tweet. He tried and tried to get her to see that their relationship was worth a try, but Tweet valued their friendship too much and did not want to put that in jeopardy should anything in their relationship go wrong, so she pushed and pushed and pushed until he finally relented and started dating. This however did not go down well with Tweet, while she didn’t want him, she didn’t want anyone else to have him either and the green eyed monster was constantly apparent. This actually managed to cause friction in their friendship and this is where the cracks started to appear and this is where I started crying the most!
“Tweet.” His voice was low and raspy.
“Yeah?” I said trying to keep my voice steady.
“Tonight was amaz…,” he paused. “You’re amazing.”
“Noah…” I trailed off as I choked back a sob.
“I wish you believed it,” he said. He left without saying another word.
Standing alone, watching him walk away, the only thought running through my mind was, I wished I believed it too, so I could be your girlfriend.
Noah knows what Tweet is doing and he only ever has casual dates for quite a while, he still tries to chip away at Tweets resolve in the hope that he can break through her walls of doom and gloom and get her to see that they are so compatible. It is like they were destined to be together forever. I must admit, Tweet did begin to annoy me, I was getting very angry with her at one point. I just felt like screaming at the kindle saying “open your god damn eyes and smell the coffee, he loves you, he is devoted to you, did you not see the stars, moons and plants align when you two were born FGS!!!” It is obvious to everyone and I mean everyone that they should be together but Tweet just does not get it AT ALL!! She loves him with all her being, but she just cannot get over the potential of losing him, so rather than take the chance she would rather go without.
“I can’t be around you right now. It hurts too much, because I am so completely and desperately in love with you Tweet.”…
“There hasn’t been a day in my life that I haven’t loved you. I wish you would just let me love you.”…
“You will always be the most important thing in my life. I’ll always be there for you no matter what or who. I have no past without you and I can’t imagine a future that doesn’t include you. I just need some time to figure out how I can have you in my life without having you be my life.”
There my heart breaks, yes I watched it splinter and shatter into smithereens and the waterworks from them on were on constant!! He put his heart and soul out there!!
They always shared their firsts and there was one first they didn’t and this severely crippled me, I would have thought that somehow this could have been written in, but alas no!! What happened with Tweet broke my heart and I don’t think I ever truly recovered after that.
They do go their separate ways as they go to college, not speaking, this breaks them both and it shattered any tiny bit of resolve I had left…I just continued to cry…and cry…and cry…things happen, life goes on….miserably…and I cry, yes I am still crying…did I say I was still crying….yep still crying (you get the gist).
Then Alison Bailey throws the curve ball, whoa!! I did not see that coming….I cannot say anymore…I am too emotional, too heart broken, too devastated, too emotionally spent, just too OMG OMG OMG.
This story was truly amazing, I felt everything, I could not put it down, I read it in one sitting, I inhaled it, I must be a sadist because it killed me, but it was one of those books that even though it was emotionally exhausting, you had to see it through to the end. Nothing I could write could possibly describe the number that this book did to me. It will forever be imprinted in my memory and in my heart. I totally adored this book!!
There are some amazing side characters in this book and am hoping that their stories are told so that I can continue to read about this couple.
I can’t believe that this is a debut book and all hats off to Alison Bailey, she did a fantastic job, the book is just WOW!!
I highlighted almost all this book, so I will leave you with another quote:-
“I wasted so much time and hurt you.”
“Nothing has ever been a waste when it comes to you. Not my time, my thoughts, or my heart. I don’t regret anything about my life with you, even the times we were apart. Those times showed me how much I belonged to you. I knew we would be together one day. I just had to be patient and wait. And you were so worth waiting for.”
I totally freaking loved this book, go forth and 1click, pick up a box of tissues and a big fat carton of ice cream and read. I’ll be here waiting for the counselling sessions to start…I have big shoulders, we can have a mutual sob fest!!
Totally and utterly amazeballs!!
www.theromancecover.com
November 16, 2014
Present Perfect was third book this week that made me cry. Changing into blubbering mess on the floor is tiring, however fantastic feeling. I definitely won’t be reading so emotional books for a while, because I need a break from those stories. I really thought I couldn’t handle finishing Present Perfect, but when I decided that it shattered my heart, something opposite happened, which made me sob even harder.
Present Perfect is story about Amanda and Noah, and their extraordinary bound. From the day they were born theirs soul were connected. Always together, day by day they discovered world and shared theirs firsts.
But things started changing the older they got. Somewhere along the way, their feelings started running deeper. And deeper…
“You’ve always been my girl and always will be. No one will ever take me away from you, Tweet. You’re my heart and soul and that’s never going to change, no matter what you say.”
It’s truly amazing story filled with friendship, love, sexual tension and heartbreak. I can even count how many times I was astonished, heartbroken, giddy or sad. Perfect Emotional Roller Coaster!!
Overall, I immensely enjoyed reading Present Perfect it tugs on your emotions and amazing love between friends drives the story. It’s fantastic book that will leave your eyes red and puffy and extremely emotional.
Thanks to my amazing friend Lili luvs Cole, Caleb, Sebastian,Mason, Noah for coaxing me into reading this.
More of my reviews on Smokin' Hot Book Blog and my Facebook Page
October 14, 2013
This went like this:
Her: OMG, I'm in love with my best friend and he's acting as if he likes me back. What does that mean??????????????????????????
Him: I like you, I want to be with you.
Her: WHAT? what in the world is wrong with you? you can't like me.
*guy tries to move on*
Her: WHY IS HE LIKE THIS OMG WHY.
Him: I'll leave everything for you.
Her: WHAT THE WHAT!! STOP THE NONSENSE.
*strange disease thrown randomly*
Both: OMG WE'VE LOST ALL THIS TIME. LET'S BE TOGETHER AND LIVE HEA.
Her: I don't know why we wasted so much time.
Me: .____.
Her: OMG, I'm in love with my best friend and he's acting as if he likes me back. What does that mean??????????????????????????
Him: I like you, I want to be with you.
Her: WHAT? what in the world is wrong with you? you can't like me.
*guy tries to move on*
Her: WHY IS HE LIKE THIS OMG WHY.
Him: I'll leave everything for you.
Her: WHAT THE WHAT!! STOP THE NONSENSE.
*strange disease thrown randomly*
Both: OMG WE'VE LOST ALL THIS TIME. LET'S BE TOGETHER AND LIVE HEA.
Her: I don't know why we wasted so much time.
Me: .____.
October 8, 2019
1/10
No me ha gustado nada. Una relación totalmente toxica con una protagonista insoportable a la que no he comprendido en ningun momento, y con ung iro que nos da la autora que tampoco me ha gustado... ha llegado un momento en que queria abandonarlo, pero al final lo he conseguido acabar. No creo que vuelva a leer a esta autora.
No me ha gustado nada. Una relación totalmente toxica con una protagonista insoportable a la que no he comprendido en ningun momento, y con ung iro que nos da la autora que tampoco me ha gustado... ha llegado un momento en que queria abandonarlo, pero al final lo he conseguido acabar. No creo que vuelva a leer a esta autora.
August 27, 2019
Nose ni que decir sigo llorando de pena y Alegría 😪este libro se ha convertido en mi mejor lectura de lo que llevo de año... de esta autora leeré todo hasta su lista de la compra... porque es magnífica ❤️os voy a echar mucho de menos Noah y Piolin😘
July 12, 2017
HALA SENDEN NEFRET EDİYORUM !
Hayatım da ilk defa verdiğim puandan dolayı şüphe duymuyorum.
İçim rahat.
Hayatım da ilk defa verdiğim puandan dolayı şüphe duymuyorum.
İçim rahat.
August 9, 2013
This review is 100% spoiler free. It doesn't mention any storyline, just my feelings right after I finished.
If I could give this book 10 stars, I would. This is the type of book you hope to get your hands on, but are terrified once you do. This story will have you feeling every emotion possible. Hurt, anger, passion, envy, scared, hope, sympathy... You name it. You will fall head over heels for Noah and Tweet. These two were created for each other.
I'm not sure if I will add to this later, maybe....
If not, just know you are crazy if you don't read this book. It will make you smile, it'll for sure make you cry. But at the end you will feel satisfaction and be grateful you came across a book with such amazing depth, writing and characters. It'll leave a soft spot on your heart and you'll never forget Noah and Tweet.
If I could give this book 10 stars, I would. This is the type of book you hope to get your hands on, but are terrified once you do. This story will have you feeling every emotion possible. Hurt, anger, passion, envy, scared, hope, sympathy... You name it. You will fall head over heels for Noah and Tweet. These two were created for each other.
I'm not sure if I will add to this later, maybe....
If not, just know you are crazy if you don't read this book. It will make you smile, it'll for sure make you cry. But at the end you will feel satisfaction and be grateful you came across a book with such amazing depth, writing and characters. It'll leave a soft spot on your heart and you'll never forget Noah and Tweet.
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