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Revenge Love
Revenge is sweet. Emma Hastings has tried all her life to fit in. Throwing off her awkward high school years to become a member of a prestigious sorority at Wellbridge University, she has her sisters at her side, and the future spread out before her for the taking. Her senior year of college should be filled with parties, studying, and sweating between the sheets before she goes to medical school.One night at a party changes everything. Dominoes collapse as quickly as they’re erected. Suddenly, everyone has something to gain and everything to lose.Love is sweeter. Jason Gould will never fit in, so he doesn’t even try. Content to stay on the periphery of society, he works hard, plans for his future, and keeps to himself. His senior year should be filled with early morning shifts, gym sessions to keep his pent-up anger under control, and readying himself to face the rest of his life alone.One ray of sunshine refuses to let him fall into darkness. Emma won't leave his side no matter what is thrown at them.When a woman who is dying to fit in joins forces with a man who never will, they just may find they fit together in ways neither could have ever imagined, and they’ll discover a life well loved is the sweetest revenge of all.
429 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2018
About the author
Kata Čuić
20 books467 followersKata Čuić lives in Pittsburgh, PA with her husband and three teens. No one told her life was gonna be this way. She holds a degree in Linguistics with a minor in Religious Studies from the University of Pittsburgh. Her plans of becoming a pediatric neurosurgeon were foiled by O Chem 1. Fortunately, she’d been making up stories in her head since the days of her imaginary friend, Choosy. Putting pen to paper, er…fingers to the keyboard…came surprisingly naturally after her aforementioned teens decided it was time for them to cut their respective cords.
Kata writes everything from angst-filled YA series to standalone rom-coms and has been known to dabble in a bit of paranormal on the free stories section of her website. She believes nice guys shouldn’t have to finish last (except in the bedroom where she prefers an alpha between the sheets but a gentleman in the streets), and that the surest way to a woman’s heart is through laughter and food.
Kata writes everything from angst-filled YA series to standalone rom-coms and has been known to dabble in a bit of paranormal on the free stories section of her website. She believes nice guys shouldn’t have to finish last (except in the bedroom where she prefers an alpha between the sheets but a gentleman in the streets), and that the surest way to a woman’s heart is through laughter and food.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 5, 2018
If there's one book I regret reading, then it's this one. Like seriously, it's so freaking bad that I don't even wanna waste my time writing it a scathing review. Just listen to me, and don't pick it up. The immaturity and pointlessness of this alone will kill 90% of your brain cells.
1 "not in revenge, but just because it's that bad" star
July 20, 2018
UK chick here! Sorority sisters? Gamma Pi Alpha blah blah. It means nothing to me. I really don’t understand it. But what I do understand is a desire to fit in. To be accepted. To be a cool kid.
Jason Gould has never been a cool kid. He has a facial disfigurement. He is judged. He is convicted. Emma Hastings sees injustice for what it is. She wants to be a cool kid. Can she compromise her need to nurture with her need to fit in?
My word! This book took my heart and fried it. Then cut it into pieces and fed it to the bears. It was like when you set your heart on the best prawn curry for dinner and the chef says I only have celery (don’t judge me it is the devil’s vegetable) I was so fucked off! Fuck you Kata! Fuck you for putting me through all of that angst. I will not stalk you on social media and cry at your table at RARE. Much.
If a book can stir my emotions it is a winner. Revenge Love absolutely stirred me up. I adored Jason. I want to be his best friend and eat his pastries. Sod the bikini body! I really want to know more about Kieran King, I feel like there is unfinished business.
I have to say, this could absolutely be a film. It made me think of a Heath Ledger (RIP) kind of actor as Jason. Ok over to you 20th Century Fox!
Dr Sunshine - you are worth it. Don’t ever feel you are nothing. You are perfect.
“I’m nothing more than a leaf on the wind, unable to find purchase anywhere unless someone takes pity on me, anchoring me to their sides until they’ve had their turn with me only to release me back into the storm.”
“We all live our own truths. This is mine. Like you said, we can’t undo the past. I’m trying to learn from my mistakes and do better.”
“No matter how bad of a hand we think we’re dealt in life, someone always has it worse. To presume our problems are greater than anyone else’s is a symptom of an over inflated ego.”
“Bad luck doesn’t have to be a life ending curse. Even the best luck in the world doesn’t guarantee a happy ending. We all have to fight for what we want.”
It was emotional.
Jason Gould has never been a cool kid. He has a facial disfigurement. He is judged. He is convicted. Emma Hastings sees injustice for what it is. She wants to be a cool kid. Can she compromise her need to nurture with her need to fit in?
My word! This book took my heart and fried it. Then cut it into pieces and fed it to the bears. It was like when you set your heart on the best prawn curry for dinner and the chef says I only have celery (don’t judge me it is the devil’s vegetable) I was so fucked off! Fuck you Kata! Fuck you for putting me through all of that angst. I will not stalk you on social media and cry at your table at RARE. Much.
If a book can stir my emotions it is a winner. Revenge Love absolutely stirred me up. I adored Jason. I want to be his best friend and eat his pastries. Sod the bikini body! I really want to know more about Kieran King, I feel like there is unfinished business.
I have to say, this could absolutely be a film. It made me think of a Heath Ledger (RIP) kind of actor as Jason. Ok over to you 20th Century Fox!
Dr Sunshine - you are worth it. Don’t ever feel you are nothing. You are perfect.
“I’m nothing more than a leaf on the wind, unable to find purchase anywhere unless someone takes pity on me, anchoring me to their sides until they’ve had their turn with me only to release me back into the storm.”
“We all live our own truths. This is mine. Like you said, we can’t undo the past. I’m trying to learn from my mistakes and do better.”
“No matter how bad of a hand we think we’re dealt in life, someone always has it worse. To presume our problems are greater than anyone else’s is a symptom of an over inflated ego.”
“Bad luck doesn’t have to be a life ending curse. Even the best luck in the world doesn’t guarantee a happy ending. We all have to fight for what we want.”
It was emotional.
July 25, 2018
3.5 Stars! I went through a range of emotions while reading this book. There were times that I absolutely hated it and then times that I really liked it.
The underlying context of sororities was somewhat lost on me because I never had an interest in joining a sisterhood in college. I never went to frat parties and I find the whole dynamic to be a little insane. However, I learned a little about this lifestyle by reading this book and found it to be quite interesting by the end.
Emma and Jason pulled at my heartstrings and then frustrated me beyond belief. At times, I just wanted the ability to shake some sense into one or both of them. By the end of the book, I was rooting for them but it did take some time to get there. I would be interested to see where the rest of their story takes them.
Overall, I did enjoy the book. I wish I would have known the characters better and had a better understanding of their motives. If you are looking for a story with lots of ups and downs and plot points that keep you guessing, this is definitely it.
Reviewed by: Brianne M.
The underlying context of sororities was somewhat lost on me because I never had an interest in joining a sisterhood in college. I never went to frat parties and I find the whole dynamic to be a little insane. However, I learned a little about this lifestyle by reading this book and found it to be quite interesting by the end.
Emma and Jason pulled at my heartstrings and then frustrated me beyond belief. At times, I just wanted the ability to shake some sense into one or both of them. By the end of the book, I was rooting for them but it did take some time to get there. I would be interested to see where the rest of their story takes them.
Overall, I did enjoy the book. I wish I would have known the characters better and had a better understanding of their motives. If you are looking for a story with lots of ups and downs and plot points that keep you guessing, this is definitely it.
Reviewed by: Brianne M.
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March 14, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/14/2020)! 🎁
July 23, 2022
I’d like to thank L. Woods PR for sending me an e-arc of this, so I have never read from this author before but the description totally drew me in and I was really curious about this book. It is nothing like I have ever read before and I felt so many conflicting feelings throughout reading this book and it was very interesting.
Emma the main character for the first like half of this book I really didn’t like her. She was just so annoying. At times she was all about herself and she just wanted to be loved which I can understand. She’s very insecure which really bugged me because she had no need to be so insecure and she always felt like she wasn’t enough which got very obsessive at times. Around halfway through I actually started to like Emma whether it was because she started to get stronger and finally take control what was happening in her life and I loved that!
Jason he was also another character I hated until halfway through this book, he was so self-pitying about his face and it got annoying. But halfway through I fell in love with his character and I have no idea why which was just amusing.
I loved the banter between Jason and Emma, although at times I really did think some of what he said was hurting especially for making her feel like she’s fat. Although that being said it also felt like school child pulling pigtails in the playground. I loved the relationship that it turned into and I was completely invested in their relationship.
Rosie really was a toxic friendship, like the stuff she pulled in this book I was just like no that is a terrible friendship, although I loved how she tried to play matchmaking between Jason and Emma. But other than that she was a terrible friend to both Emma and Jason and I actually hated her character.
Kieran is a bloody joke with his jealousy, he is Emma’s ex-bed buddy, and the jealousy through this book was a joke. He’d make out he didn’t want her but the moment she showed interest in Jason he wanted her. He’d treat her like complete and utter shit. So every time he was jealous I was just like you stupid noob.
I don���t want to go into the plot of this book because I didn’t know much so you should go into it like that, but this book was amazing. I was unsure whether I liked this or not like through the book I kept changing my mind, in the end, I decided I loved it. The book had perfectly flawed characters.
Emma the main character for the first like half of this book I really didn’t like her. She was just so annoying. At times she was all about herself and she just wanted to be loved which I can understand. She’s very insecure which really bugged me because she had no need to be so insecure and she always felt like she wasn’t enough which got very obsessive at times. Around halfway through I actually started to like Emma whether it was because she started to get stronger and finally take control what was happening in her life and I loved that!
Jason he was also another character I hated until halfway through this book, he was so self-pitying about his face and it got annoying. But halfway through I fell in love with his character and I have no idea why which was just amusing.
I loved the banter between Jason and Emma, although at times I really did think some of what he said was hurting especially for making her feel like she’s fat. Although that being said it also felt like school child pulling pigtails in the playground. I loved the relationship that it turned into and I was completely invested in their relationship.
Rosie really was a toxic friendship, like the stuff she pulled in this book I was just like no that is a terrible friendship, although I loved how she tried to play matchmaking between Jason and Emma. But other than that she was a terrible friend to both Emma and Jason and I actually hated her character.
Kieran is a bloody joke with his jealousy, he is Emma’s ex-bed buddy, and the jealousy through this book was a joke. He’d make out he didn’t want her but the moment she showed interest in Jason he wanted her. He’d treat her like complete and utter shit. So every time he was jealous I was just like you stupid noob.
I don���t want to go into the plot of this book because I didn’t know much so you should go into it like that, but this book was amazing. I was unsure whether I liked this or not like through the book I kept changing my mind, in the end, I decided I loved it. The book had perfectly flawed characters.
July 25, 2018
I’m so torn on this book. There’s plenty I really, REALLY, love but also a lot that really, REALLY, pulled me out of the actual story. I think the best way to get my feelings across is to just break it down into what did it for me and why along with what didn’t and why without getting into too many details because spoilers. All of that said, I firmly believe there are a lot of people in the world right now that could benefit the lessons hidden inside this romance.
I fully admit, for quite a bit of this book I could not stand Emma. Now, I realize part of that is the entire point, Revenge Love is just as much about growth as it is romance. Emma had so much to learn and in truth a big chunk of that was to learn to check her privilege but eventually she grew on me as she opened her eyes to the realities so many people face including her friends. That said I eventually ended up sort of liking Emma and losing respect for nearly everyone around her. Her growth seemed to evolve into it being ok for everyone else around her to no longer treat her as a person with feelings half the time.
It’s such a difficult balance, I understand that, but it almost seemed as if the cost of this characters growth came at the price of characters I did love becoming people I really couldn’t stand at times.
There is definitely a running undercurrent of giving a voice to many forms of discrimination that are sadly alive and well affecting the lives of millions of people every day and I truly LOVED the fact Kata Čuić wove that into Revenge Love. It’s definitely something that when you read this will get you thinking and maybe even open some eyes to what people don’t even realize is happening in their own lives. I feel like that in itself makes this book worth the read. That said, at the end of the day as a romance reader this fell flat for me in the romance department.
Angst, angst, and more angst is the running theme with Emma and Jason for a large part of their story. While there’s still some swoony sweetness thrown in I felt like so much of the romance aspect was over shadowed by drama. I would have loved to have more time with them in calm waters instead of the hurricane of all they went through consuming the majority.
I fully admit, for quite a bit of this book I could not stand Emma. Now, I realize part of that is the entire point, Revenge Love is just as much about growth as it is romance. Emma had so much to learn and in truth a big chunk of that was to learn to check her privilege but eventually she grew on me as she opened her eyes to the realities so many people face including her friends. That said I eventually ended up sort of liking Emma and losing respect for nearly everyone around her. Her growth seemed to evolve into it being ok for everyone else around her to no longer treat her as a person with feelings half the time.
It’s such a difficult balance, I understand that, but it almost seemed as if the cost of this characters growth came at the price of characters I did love becoming people I really couldn’t stand at times.
There is definitely a running undercurrent of giving a voice to many forms of discrimination that are sadly alive and well affecting the lives of millions of people every day and I truly LOVED the fact Kata Čuić wove that into Revenge Love. It’s definitely something that when you read this will get you thinking and maybe even open some eyes to what people don’t even realize is happening in their own lives. I feel like that in itself makes this book worth the read. That said, at the end of the day as a romance reader this fell flat for me in the romance department.
Angst, angst, and more angst is the running theme with Emma and Jason for a large part of their story. While there’s still some swoony sweetness thrown in I felt like so much of the romance aspect was over shadowed by drama. I would have loved to have more time with them in calm waters instead of the hurricane of all they went through consuming the majority.
July 25, 2018
"Truth: You find what you're looking for when you least expect it."
"Truth: Friendship and love are impossible without a mutual vulnerability."
"Lie: Love yourself and others will follow."
This NA college romance of frenemies to lovers, of Emma and Jason, is real and raw with truth and lies that bring the angst and squeeze the heart and never let up until the very end. The author takes something as common as "wanting to fit in and being/finding yourself" and gives it a truly unique storyline, one that's not light and fluffy but heavy and sometimes brutally honest, one that is probably experienced in every college every single day by the majority of the student body. That unique storyline is given an outstanding and inspiring voice through the strong relatable flawed characters, with each one having issues and weaknesses just like me or you or the next person, from Emma and Jason to Kieran and Rosie and other side characters, everyone can decide to either be real or fake, to be silent or be heard, be a hero or a villain...……. "We're all villains who sometimes do heroic things."
Throughout the story Emma and Jason's chemistry could be felt intensely, their banter and interactions were so highly entertaining with their back and forth and push and pull.....yeah, the angst got high with these two (you just want to jump in and smoosh them together already) but that gradual building heat made the end result that much more rewarding! Their relationship, from beginning to the last page, their growth and journey together is what Real AF romance is all about!!!
This book, Revenge Love, along with the Moving The Chains series, and the wonderful author Kata Cuic, are those rare gems that make me wish that I had more book/reading friends so that I could shout and preach to them how much they need to seek this author out and read her amazing books!!
"Truth: Friendship and love are impossible without a mutual vulnerability."
"Lie: Love yourself and others will follow."
This NA college romance of frenemies to lovers, of Emma and Jason, is real and raw with truth and lies that bring the angst and squeeze the heart and never let up until the very end. The author takes something as common as "wanting to fit in and being/finding yourself" and gives it a truly unique storyline, one that's not light and fluffy but heavy and sometimes brutally honest, one that is probably experienced in every college every single day by the majority of the student body. That unique storyline is given an outstanding and inspiring voice through the strong relatable flawed characters, with each one having issues and weaknesses just like me or you or the next person, from Emma and Jason to Kieran and Rosie and other side characters, everyone can decide to either be real or fake, to be silent or be heard, be a hero or a villain...……. "We're all villains who sometimes do heroic things."
Throughout the story Emma and Jason's chemistry could be felt intensely, their banter and interactions were so highly entertaining with their back and forth and push and pull.....yeah, the angst got high with these two (you just want to jump in and smoosh them together already) but that gradual building heat made the end result that much more rewarding! Their relationship, from beginning to the last page, their growth and journey together is what Real AF romance is all about!!!
This book, Revenge Love, along with the Moving The Chains series, and the wonderful author Kata Cuic, are those rare gems that make me wish that I had more book/reading friends so that I could shout and preach to them how much they need to seek this author out and read her amazing books!!
July 25, 2018
Slow Start, Great Finish!
From the blurb, I wasn't sure what to expect with this book and certainly not the emotional roller coaster ride it turned out to be. Kata Cuic gives her readers a little bit of everything in this college-age romance.
Right off the bat I didn't like Emma. I don't know if it was her constant need to fit in, or how she was so "woe is me". Either way, I wasn't a fan. Emma is a college senior and only has a few months to go before graduation. She's in a sorority, however is pretty much an invisible member. Her close friends are hardly that, because she tries too hard. That is her whole focus, to be somebody, no matter who she took down to get there.
"There are no happily ever afters, no meet-cutes, no knights in shining armor to slay the dragons. We are the dragons. You're just a vapid princess, waiting for someone else to save her."
Now Jason, this guy I liked right away, because of that right there. ^^^ This guy didn't mince words. While I didn't like him pining over Emma, I get it, there's someone for everyone. As much as he doesn't want to admit it, he likes this girl no matter how annoying she is. Time after time Jason has put himself out there for Emma and she just takes and takes.
Once Jason has himself so far out he can't get back in without help, they finally join forces. Jason, Emma and their friend Rosie are in deep. Once they hatch a plan, this story really kicks into overdrive and speeds to the end.
"You make me believe our weakness can be our greatest strengths."
The book is well written and I am reviewing vague as to protect the various story lines, of which there are many. Some better than others, ahem Kieran. Not sure what was with that guy. There are a lot of lessons and learning about yourself and others in Revenge Love, the best lesson for me, was to not judge a book by it's cover.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
From the blurb, I wasn't sure what to expect with this book and certainly not the emotional roller coaster ride it turned out to be. Kata Cuic gives her readers a little bit of everything in this college-age romance.
Right off the bat I didn't like Emma. I don't know if it was her constant need to fit in, or how she was so "woe is me". Either way, I wasn't a fan. Emma is a college senior and only has a few months to go before graduation. She's in a sorority, however is pretty much an invisible member. Her close friends are hardly that, because she tries too hard. That is her whole focus, to be somebody, no matter who she took down to get there.
"There are no happily ever afters, no meet-cutes, no knights in shining armor to slay the dragons. We are the dragons. You're just a vapid princess, waiting for someone else to save her."
Now Jason, this guy I liked right away, because of that right there. ^^^ This guy didn't mince words. While I didn't like him pining over Emma, I get it, there's someone for everyone. As much as he doesn't want to admit it, he likes this girl no matter how annoying she is. Time after time Jason has put himself out there for Emma and she just takes and takes.
Once Jason has himself so far out he can't get back in without help, they finally join forces. Jason, Emma and their friend Rosie are in deep. Once they hatch a plan, this story really kicks into overdrive and speeds to the end.
"You make me believe our weakness can be our greatest strengths."
The book is well written and I am reviewing vague as to protect the various story lines, of which there are many. Some better than others, ahem Kieran. Not sure what was with that guy. There are a lot of lessons and learning about yourself and others in Revenge Love, the best lesson for me, was to not judge a book by it's cover.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
June 16, 2018
Emma tries desperately to fit in while still fighting against what she really wants to be... herself. While doing what she has to do to keep her status in her sorority she still tries to be a friend a friend to Jason. Jason and Emma went to the same high school and she knows if he had his way he would hide away from the world. He finds life easier if he can hide since he has a VERY obvious birthmark on his face, but it truly isn’t something you can hide. This story is the ups, downs, lefts, and rights of their relationship while still trying survive not only what life throws at them, but also what sorority and fraternity members are throwing their way. This book is DEEP, gritty, painful, and not for the faint of heart. Makes you question what you would do in their shoes and how you would make it out.
June 12, 2018
Sweet revenge is never pretty. Neither is Jason Gould who suffers from a genetic mutation that has left his face disfigured. He is a loner and doesn't fit it. He prefers it that way. But his best friend Emma Hastings won't let him isolate himself from the world. The duo along with Emma's on\off bed fellow and her sorority sister Rosie embark on a revenge plot to show the entitled jerks of Wellbridge University that the outsiders of the world do not have to fit within the societal norms of perfectionism. Emma funds her place in the world.
August 2, 2018
Love this book!
If you want typical, this book isn’t for you. If you want everything wrapped up in a nice little package, it’s not for you. If you want your typical hero and heroine, it’s not for you. But, this book IS for you if you love twists and turns. This book is for you if you’re a fan of fighting for love. This absolutely is for you if you love angst. I seriously had to read this book twice before writing a review on it because I missed some stuff the first time around. Big stuff that’s so subtle, it took a second read through to catch it. Also, I’m just going to be real. None of the characters are exactly likable at first. Emma is selfish at first. Jason is the anti-hero at first. He even calls himself the VILLAIN, however, I never saw him that way. Ever. Anti-hero, yes, but not the villain. He does a lot of ‘bad’ things in an effort to protect others. At some point, you’ll think “oh, grow up!” about each and every character. I noted the second time around when I started to see Emma change...it was roughly 1/3 through. It was a bit longer for Jason and Kieran. As for Rosie and the other sorority girls, my hope is after...after what, I’m not saying...just know...after. You’ll know what I’m talking about when you read it. And, they’re all broken. Every single one of them has issues that haunt them and have made them who they are. And, if you love fighting, this book is for you. There’s all kinds of fighting: for love, for what’s right, for revenge, for protection, to right the past and to save the day.
If you want typical, this book isn’t for you. If you want everything wrapped up in a nice little package, it’s not for you. If you want your typical hero and heroine, it’s not for you. But, this book IS for you if you love twists and turns. This book is for you if you’re a fan of fighting for love. This absolutely is for you if you love angst. I seriously had to read this book twice before writing a review on it because I missed some stuff the first time around. Big stuff that’s so subtle, it took a second read through to catch it. Also, I’m just going to be real. None of the characters are exactly likable at first. Emma is selfish at first. Jason is the anti-hero at first. He even calls himself the VILLAIN, however, I never saw him that way. Ever. Anti-hero, yes, but not the villain. He does a lot of ‘bad’ things in an effort to protect others. At some point, you’ll think “oh, grow up!” about each and every character. I noted the second time around when I started to see Emma change...it was roughly 1/3 through. It was a bit longer for Jason and Kieran. As for Rosie and the other sorority girls, my hope is after...after what, I’m not saying...just know...after. You’ll know what I’m talking about when you read it. And, they’re all broken. Every single one of them has issues that haunt them and have made them who they are. And, if you love fighting, this book is for you. There’s all kinds of fighting: for love, for what’s right, for revenge, for protection, to right the past and to save the day.
Read
November 9, 2022... at about 42% because a) IMO the characters motivations do not match their 'crimes' b) none of the 'four' are particularly likeable characters to me and c) there are no clear signs of what makes people good and close friends ie open and honest communication between them allowing them to really get to know each other and d) I was bored waiting for the ball to drop. Also, I have read and do still read plenty of fiction with young MC's, but so far there is just something so incredibly juvenile (and questionable!) about the whole revenge plot going on here.
There is still a vague smidgeon of interest so I may pick this up at another stage later on this year...
And I see I'm the dissenting view on this one!
There is still a vague smidgeon of interest so I may pick this up at another stage later on this year...
And I see I'm the dissenting view on this one!
September 25, 2023
Emma is a girl who can't find her place and that's how she ends up in a dead-end relationship with Kieran for years.
Jason is her friend, to whom she tells all of her sorrows, even though Jason is not at all communicative and can often seem a bit borderline. But that's because he has already been hurt in the past and if you add to that the complex he has about his face, it makes him a lonely guy even though he tries to keep an eye on Emma.
Rosie is Emma's friend, although with the secrets she keeps and her machinations she sometimes doesn't seem that way.
Jason and Emma are two characters who need to love themselves more and they end up achieving it together, but they still have to overcome many obstacles.
Very entertaining, I read it in one go.
Jason is her friend, to whom she tells all of her sorrows, even though Jason is not at all communicative and can often seem a bit borderline. But that's because he has already been hurt in the past and if you add to that the complex he has about his face, it makes him a lonely guy even though he tries to keep an eye on Emma.
Rosie is Emma's friend, although with the secrets she keeps and her machinations she sometimes doesn't seem that way.
Jason and Emma are two characters who need to love themselves more and they end up achieving it together, but they still have to overcome many obstacles.
Very entertaining, I read it in one go.
July 27, 2018
Interesting storyline
Overall I thought this story was intriguing and it kept me guessing at what would happen next. There were a few things that could be tightened up, like the fights seemed to go back and forth and on and on. I didn't understand about Jason's face until several chapters in the book, and then he was a contradiction of self-pity and self-acceptance that had me feeling like whiplash, as well as his feelings for Emma. Sometimes I wasn't sure what was going on with Kieran and where did he disappear to? Like I said, overall good story just need some things tightened up.
Overall I thought this story was intriguing and it kept me guessing at what would happen next. There were a few things that could be tightened up, like the fights seemed to go back and forth and on and on. I didn't understand about Jason's face until several chapters in the book, and then he was a contradiction of self-pity and self-acceptance that had me feeling like whiplash, as well as his feelings for Emma. Sometimes I wasn't sure what was going on with Kieran and where did he disappear to? Like I said, overall good story just need some things tightened up.
June 23, 2020
How far would you go?
How much would you change about yourself to achieve the things you thought you wanted how much would you make up to fit in? This book asks these questions in a variety of ways with characters you are constantly questioning and analyzing. I enjoyed this book and couldn’t stop reading it. The characters were engaging and interesting. I feel like all the ulterior motives left pieces of the story hanging though and I am wondering if a part two is coming. I did love the conclusion between the two main characters characters though!
How much would you change about yourself to achieve the things you thought you wanted how much would you make up to fit in? This book asks these questions in a variety of ways with characters you are constantly questioning and analyzing. I enjoyed this book and couldn’t stop reading it. The characters were engaging and interesting. I feel like all the ulterior motives left pieces of the story hanging though and I am wondering if a part two is coming. I did love the conclusion between the two main characters characters though!
August 22, 2018
A Gem!
This is my first book by this author, and I look forward to reading many more! As a former nonfiction writer and editor, and one who reads both all kinds of books voraciously, I found her writing well done. These are characters who will live on in your memory, with issues and twists in plot that leave you wanting more. Definitely a gem in this genre.
This is my first book by this author, and I look forward to reading many more! As a former nonfiction writer and editor, and one who reads both all kinds of books voraciously, I found her writing well done. These are characters who will live on in your memory, with issues and twists in plot that leave you wanting more. Definitely a gem in this genre.
July 24, 2018
Mind blown
Wow this book had so much twists and turns you have Jason and Emma they are best friends. Emma and Jason and ro get together with Emma’s ex and they scheme a plan against everyone but things happen but secrets come out and lies come out such a great book!
Wow this book had so much twists and turns you have Jason and Emma they are best friends. Emma and Jason and ro get together with Emma’s ex and they scheme a plan against everyone but things happen but secrets come out and lies come out such a great book!
July 25, 2018
I liked this read very much. It does start slowly but the end makes it worth it. A unique and emotional storyline is a stable base for Jason and Emma's romance. This compelling tale of being different and how that effects you and your actions. I'm posting an honest, voluntary review.
July 25, 2018
Emerald Book Reviews
'"You're just like the rest of them. Selfish, stupid, blind to the suffering of others. No matter how much you daydream otherwise, reality isn't going to get better for some of us. There are no happily ever afters, no meet-cutes, and no knights in shining armour to slay the dragons. We are the dragons. You're just a vapid princess, waiting for someone else to save her."
I wasn't sure what to expect going into Revenge Love by Kata Cuic. I am a huge fan of her Moving the Chains series but I had a sneaking suspicion, judging by the blurb, that this story was going to be a major departure from that series. And I was right.
Although this book has some pretty terrific, and thoroughly engaging aspects, I just could not connect to any of the characters. They were all immersed in this thick grey, ambiguous cloak, where there was never any concrete establishment of a true goodness in the hero and heroine. And maybe that makes them more conflicted, diverse and interesting to some readers, it probably makes them more real in the long run because no one is truly that selfless and courageous and good. But somehow, it all just missed the mark with me.
I found the heroine to be a little vapid at times, a glutton for punishment and not as strong-willed as I would have liked, perhaps it was self-esteem issues. I found her actions to be a complete contradiction to the person I felt she was and could be, particularly in relation to her imbecilic ex. The hero too, is just awful to her, in some instances verbally abusive and I couldn't quite fathom why she would keep pushing him into a friendship he kept protesting. Even though I completely understood why he felt the need to continually push her away - the feelings of inferiority, self-consciousness and for her protection, but those reasons did not equate to him being so hurtful when she was nothing but honest and kind.
And because of this push and pull, to and fro, his hot and cold demeanour, I could not find a saving grace in him because I would have given up on him and his attitude a long time ago. Thinking back on it now, perhaps this actually shows a bit of goodness in the heroine? Her persistence in seeing the positive in everyone. Pushing for love, and reaching out to those who shrug off the hand of friendship, for fear of being hurt. And perhaps it enlightens us to the fact that the hero has a very soft and vulnerable heart underneath his surly, battle weary exterior. Whatever their reasons, for being the people they are and doing the things they do, I do truly believe the majority of readers will love Jason and Emma.
'"I won't break your heart. You'll never have the chance to daydream because I can't be anything other than the insufferable a$$hole you always accuse me of being."
Tears cancel my smile. I rest my forehead against his. "Don't make me fall in love with you."
I almost did once before.
"I won't." He squeezes me a little too hard as if to prove his point. "I promise."
Again, that is what will draw people into this story, immerse them in the chaos and drama. We love to love the bad guys, right? Although I personally felt a certain disconnect within the characters, the story line itself was very entertaining. It runs the gamut from revenge to love, with everything in between. It's intricate and messy, hurtful and angsty, it's satisfying and triumphant, sexy and sweet with dialogue that is wickedly funny, sometimes heartbreaking and often profound.
I especially loved how Kata tackled the subject of facial markings. How life altering they can be. How someone lives with it. How those around them, react and contribute. It was done with sensitivity and aplomb but at the same time, Kata managed to demonstrate the rawness of an affliction, the pain and exclusion that can come from it.
So although this particular story wasn't for me, I will definitely still be reading whatever Kata has to write, because she does it with such passion and love for her characters and her words. It's their story to tell and if I didn't like it, that's on me. Others will. If you don't mind your characters a little twisted and dark and the plot even more so, then Revenge Love is definitely for you.
'"You're just like the rest of them. Selfish, stupid, blind to the suffering of others. No matter how much you daydream otherwise, reality isn't going to get better for some of us. There are no happily ever afters, no meet-cutes, and no knights in shining armour to slay the dragons. We are the dragons. You're just a vapid princess, waiting for someone else to save her."
I wasn't sure what to expect going into Revenge Love by Kata Cuic. I am a huge fan of her Moving the Chains series but I had a sneaking suspicion, judging by the blurb, that this story was going to be a major departure from that series. And I was right.
Although this book has some pretty terrific, and thoroughly engaging aspects, I just could not connect to any of the characters. They were all immersed in this thick grey, ambiguous cloak, where there was never any concrete establishment of a true goodness in the hero and heroine. And maybe that makes them more conflicted, diverse and interesting to some readers, it probably makes them more real in the long run because no one is truly that selfless and courageous and good. But somehow, it all just missed the mark with me.
I found the heroine to be a little vapid at times, a glutton for punishment and not as strong-willed as I would have liked, perhaps it was self-esteem issues. I found her actions to be a complete contradiction to the person I felt she was and could be, particularly in relation to her imbecilic ex. The hero too, is just awful to her, in some instances verbally abusive and I couldn't quite fathom why she would keep pushing him into a friendship he kept protesting. Even though I completely understood why he felt the need to continually push her away - the feelings of inferiority, self-consciousness and for her protection, but those reasons did not equate to him being so hurtful when she was nothing but honest and kind.
And because of this push and pull, to and fro, his hot and cold demeanour, I could not find a saving grace in him because I would have given up on him and his attitude a long time ago. Thinking back on it now, perhaps this actually shows a bit of goodness in the heroine? Her persistence in seeing the positive in everyone. Pushing for love, and reaching out to those who shrug off the hand of friendship, for fear of being hurt. And perhaps it enlightens us to the fact that the hero has a very soft and vulnerable heart underneath his surly, battle weary exterior. Whatever their reasons, for being the people they are and doing the things they do, I do truly believe the majority of readers will love Jason and Emma.
'"I won't break your heart. You'll never have the chance to daydream because I can't be anything other than the insufferable a$$hole you always accuse me of being."
Tears cancel my smile. I rest my forehead against his. "Don't make me fall in love with you."
I almost did once before.
"I won't." He squeezes me a little too hard as if to prove his point. "I promise."
Again, that is what will draw people into this story, immerse them in the chaos and drama. We love to love the bad guys, right? Although I personally felt a certain disconnect within the characters, the story line itself was very entertaining. It runs the gamut from revenge to love, with everything in between. It's intricate and messy, hurtful and angsty, it's satisfying and triumphant, sexy and sweet with dialogue that is wickedly funny, sometimes heartbreaking and often profound.
I especially loved how Kata tackled the subject of facial markings. How life altering they can be. How someone lives with it. How those around them, react and contribute. It was done with sensitivity and aplomb but at the same time, Kata managed to demonstrate the rawness of an affliction, the pain and exclusion that can come from it.
So although this particular story wasn't for me, I will definitely still be reading whatever Kata has to write, because she does it with such passion and love for her characters and her words. It's their story to tell and if I didn't like it, that's on me. Others will. If you don't mind your characters a little twisted and dark and the plot even more so, then Revenge Love is definitely for you.
July 26, 2018
Emma Hastings has spent her entire life trying to fit in. She's a people pleaser and wears her heart on her sleeve. She also puts up with a lot from her best friend Jason, because she knows there is more to him than the little he shows the world.
Jason Gould has spent his entire life knowing he'll never fit in due to a facial deformity,, so why even try. He's moody and angry and believes he's not good enough for Emma, even going as far as to push her towards someone he thinks is.
When events at a frat party change everything, their world twists into a game of revenge. Being forced to play by Emma’s ex, Emma and Jason are forced to rely and protect each other until graduation in the spring . . . only things won’t be easy and every action has consequences neither could predict. Will all of the players make it to graduation or will the game cause them to lose their friendship and their future?
Revenge Love was one of the most complex plots I have read in a long time, but in the best of ways! Seriously, the amount of angst and intrigue happening on this college campus will blow your mind. The twists and turns will take you on a convoluted journey and leave you reeling while trying to figure out what could possibly happen next!
Emma is a true sweetheart. She’s super intelligent and driven as well as loyal and caring. She’s also easily manipulated because all she’s ever wanted was to really fit in. When Emma finally starts standing up for herself, fighting for what she wants and deciding that fitting in isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, her character truly shines.
Jason’s character was as complex as the plot. He’s moody and strong, but loyal in his own way. He cares about Emma, but doesn’t feel worthy of her. He’d rather offer friendship and watch over her without er even realizing he’s doing it. His struggle to accept that she loves him and he can be happy is grueling and will have readers feeling just as whiplashed as poor Emma trying to read his feelings for her.
Together, these characters are amazing when they let themselves be. Fitting in isn't all it's cracked up to be. Emma is the sunshine to Jason's darkness and together they make not fitting in the best ending of all.
Get lost in a bit of revenge and find your way to love . . . you won’t regret it! 5 stars! PS, bring your box of tissues and a bottle of wine, because there is enough angst in this book to have you tearing up one minute and ready to throw your e-reader the next!
Jason Gould has spent his entire life knowing he'll never fit in due to a facial deformity,, so why even try. He's moody and angry and believes he's not good enough for Emma, even going as far as to push her towards someone he thinks is.
When events at a frat party change everything, their world twists into a game of revenge. Being forced to play by Emma’s ex, Emma and Jason are forced to rely and protect each other until graduation in the spring . . . only things won’t be easy and every action has consequences neither could predict. Will all of the players make it to graduation or will the game cause them to lose their friendship and their future?
Revenge Love was one of the most complex plots I have read in a long time, but in the best of ways! Seriously, the amount of angst and intrigue happening on this college campus will blow your mind. The twists and turns will take you on a convoluted journey and leave you reeling while trying to figure out what could possibly happen next!
Emma is a true sweetheart. She’s super intelligent and driven as well as loyal and caring. She’s also easily manipulated because all she’s ever wanted was to really fit in. When Emma finally starts standing up for herself, fighting for what she wants and deciding that fitting in isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, her character truly shines.
Jason’s character was as complex as the plot. He’s moody and strong, but loyal in his own way. He cares about Emma, but doesn’t feel worthy of her. He’d rather offer friendship and watch over her without er even realizing he’s doing it. His struggle to accept that she loves him and he can be happy is grueling and will have readers feeling just as whiplashed as poor Emma trying to read his feelings for her.
Together, these characters are amazing when they let themselves be. Fitting in isn't all it's cracked up to be. Emma is the sunshine to Jason's darkness and together they make not fitting in the best ending of all.
Get lost in a bit of revenge and find your way to love . . . you won’t regret it! 5 stars! PS, bring your box of tissues and a bottle of wine, because there is enough angst in this book to have you tearing up one minute and ready to throw your e-reader the next!
July 26, 2018
This book was so different from anything I have read recently - it didn't follow script or the arc for a story about love and hardship.
I was blindsided at every turn!
Any time I thought I knew what was happening - the plot was turned on its head!
What an amazingly woven tale about all the traits that make us who we are!
The need to fit in, to fly under the radar, to be popular, to be accepted for who you are!
And more importantly the need to know that we are worth more!
More than what we think and, by far, more than what anyone else believes we deserve!
I can't even begin to explain the complex characters and plot twists that knocked me for six in this book!
I know this is one where there will unequivocally be varying degrees of love and hate for this book and it's characters.
I was on a never ending see-saw between loving the characters and hating them from one page to another...
I couldn't find steady ground throughout any of this book...AND I FUCKING LOVED IT!
I was craving the story-line...I was like an addict needing to know what the hell was around the next bend!
This isn't a book for the fainthearted!
This isn't a book that feels like there is light at the end of the tunnel!
This book is so fucking raw it bleeds red through the print on the pages!
I was left content but spun around and spat out!
I finished this book feeling like something had changed!
The way this book is written leaves you with no option but to question everything about our inherent nature to always look for acceptance in others before we've learnt to accept ourselves!
This book, for me, was an eye opener, in so many different ways!
It was like putting a voice to all the insecurities we try to hide from others!
I loved the rawness of this story!
I loved the way I couldn't stop thinking about what is really important!
I loved the way the essence of this book lingered long after it was finished!
I LOVE the fact that this is a book that is not for everyone!
I LOVE the fact that some people will hate this book!
I love every single word in this book that will make people question why we feel the things we do!
This was by far a 5 star plus read for me!
I was blindsided at every turn!
Any time I thought I knew what was happening - the plot was turned on its head!
What an amazingly woven tale about all the traits that make us who we are!
The need to fit in, to fly under the radar, to be popular, to be accepted for who you are!
And more importantly the need to know that we are worth more!
More than what we think and, by far, more than what anyone else believes we deserve!
I can't even begin to explain the complex characters and plot twists that knocked me for six in this book!
I know this is one where there will unequivocally be varying degrees of love and hate for this book and it's characters.
I was on a never ending see-saw between loving the characters and hating them from one page to another...
I couldn't find steady ground throughout any of this book...AND I FUCKING LOVED IT!
I was craving the story-line...I was like an addict needing to know what the hell was around the next bend!
This isn't a book for the fainthearted!
This isn't a book that feels like there is light at the end of the tunnel!
This book is so fucking raw it bleeds red through the print on the pages!
I was left content but spun around and spat out!
I finished this book feeling like something had changed!
The way this book is written leaves you with no option but to question everything about our inherent nature to always look for acceptance in others before we've learnt to accept ourselves!
This book, for me, was an eye opener, in so many different ways!
It was like putting a voice to all the insecurities we try to hide from others!
I loved the rawness of this story!
I loved the way I couldn't stop thinking about what is really important!
I loved the way the essence of this book lingered long after it was finished!
I LOVE the fact that this is a book that is not for everyone!
I LOVE the fact that some people will hate this book!
I love every single word in this book that will make people question why we feel the things we do!
This was by far a 5 star plus read for me!
July 26, 2018
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
(4/5) ☆☆☆☆
Honestly, I delved into this book with my expectations fairly neutral. I had nothing to look up to nor was I worried too much I might end up being disappointed (because believe me, I have been disappointed in the past. A lot.) So I was actually taken aback by how good this book was, and this was kind of a constant reminder I shouldn't always take things for granted.
The story of Emma and Jason is not your typical friendship-turns-into-love kind of situation. It is packed with conflicting actions, disturbing pasts and flawed characters, which makes it somewhat relatable. For once, there is a female MC with insecurities and who isn't just picture perfect in the eyes of everyone else but herself. I could relate to Emma, to an extent, and I think many others would, too.
Emma is an insecure college girl who's trying her best to feel loved and included as a part of something bigger, which can sometimes lead her to make irrational - yet mostly excusable - decisions, and her constant feeling of not being enough borders on obsessive; it might even go as far as to be diagnosed 'depression'. She struggles through her everyday life as she is forced to walk over eggshells around her *friends* in order not to offend anybody in anyway, unfortunately losing her true self in the process.
Jason, however, is the everyday, boy-next-door, dark, brooding male MC (because who doesn't love them some of that?). He is the last person Emma could possibly think of being involved with, but when one night everything turns upside down, she's forced down a dark road with him and realises that he might not be just as brooding and mysterious as she thought he was.
Revenge Love was a relatively moderate, light read with a good hang to it that makes you want to go on and on and rarely even get bored (if ever at all).
As opposed to the common opinion, it wasn't the type of book to make me cry for days or have a terrible hangover, but it had a great message to deliver and this was enough for me.
(4/5) ☆☆☆☆
Honestly, I delved into this book with my expectations fairly neutral. I had nothing to look up to nor was I worried too much I might end up being disappointed (because believe me, I have been disappointed in the past. A lot.) So I was actually taken aback by how good this book was, and this was kind of a constant reminder I shouldn't always take things for granted.
The story of Emma and Jason is not your typical friendship-turns-into-love kind of situation. It is packed with conflicting actions, disturbing pasts and flawed characters, which makes it somewhat relatable. For once, there is a female MC with insecurities and who isn't just picture perfect in the eyes of everyone else but herself. I could relate to Emma, to an extent, and I think many others would, too.
Emma is an insecure college girl who's trying her best to feel loved and included as a part of something bigger, which can sometimes lead her to make irrational - yet mostly excusable - decisions, and her constant feeling of not being enough borders on obsessive; it might even go as far as to be diagnosed 'depression'. She struggles through her everyday life as she is forced to walk over eggshells around her *friends* in order not to offend anybody in anyway, unfortunately losing her true self in the process.
Jason, however, is the everyday, boy-next-door, dark, brooding male MC (because who doesn't love them some of that?). He is the last person Emma could possibly think of being involved with, but when one night everything turns upside down, she's forced down a dark road with him and realises that he might not be just as brooding and mysterious as she thought he was.
Revenge Love was a relatively moderate, light read with a good hang to it that makes you want to go on and on and rarely even get bored (if ever at all).
As opposed to the common opinion, it wasn't the type of book to make me cry for days or have a terrible hangover, but it had a great message to deliver and this was enough for me.
July 30, 2018
****5 STARS****
****ARC Received for Honest Review****
Ok….this is so not the Moving the Chains series, this is not Evie and Rob and I so didn’t give a shit…..I thought it would but I didn’t. If you want angst, drama, flawed characters, depth, evolved and involved plot lines, than read a Kata Cuic book and read this one. Revenge Love is a wonderful perfect 10 dive away from what she is known for. It takes so big b@lls to do something like that and dare she did.
Emma and Jasons relationship and the development of said relationship throughout the course of the book, I found to intriguing, funny, sad, enraged, excited, frustrated and extreme contentment. That means I was invested, page one to The End, I was into every character of this book. I loved the friendship of two completely different people, the conflicts, the ride or die, the passion, the loyalty and love that they can find in circumstances that others would never put themselves in.
This is a must read, and I don’t lie people.-Review by Catherine(Catty)
*** ARC Received for Honest Review ***
***5 stars***
I don't know what it is that makes Kata's books so addicting and awesome. From the moment I starting reading Revenge Love I couldn't put it down and I couldn't get it out of my head. Kata creates characters that are each so perfectly flawed and believable. Toss in drama and angst and I'm completely hooked. Jason and Emma are the slow burn. A relationship that builds over years and is put through its paces by both dumb choices on their part and the outside world. This new adult book will have turning the page just to see how they can mess up things more and how they find their way out of it. I'm not sure whether to thank Kata for these new characters that are now living in my head or make her pay for my gym membership because of my increased craving for cheese danishes. This book does not disappoint in any way. I just hope their is more to come! (Review by Terri "Jane")
****ARC Received for Honest Review****
Ok….this is so not the Moving the Chains series, this is not Evie and Rob and I so didn’t give a shit…..I thought it would but I didn’t. If you want angst, drama, flawed characters, depth, evolved and involved plot lines, than read a Kata Cuic book and read this one. Revenge Love is a wonderful perfect 10 dive away from what she is known for. It takes so big b@lls to do something like that and dare she did.
Emma and Jasons relationship and the development of said relationship throughout the course of the book, I found to intriguing, funny, sad, enraged, excited, frustrated and extreme contentment. That means I was invested, page one to The End, I was into every character of this book. I loved the friendship of two completely different people, the conflicts, the ride or die, the passion, the loyalty and love that they can find in circumstances that others would never put themselves in.
This is a must read, and I don’t lie people.-Review by Catherine(Catty)
*** ARC Received for Honest Review ***
***5 stars***
I don't know what it is that makes Kata's books so addicting and awesome. From the moment I starting reading Revenge Love I couldn't put it down and I couldn't get it out of my head. Kata creates characters that are each so perfectly flawed and believable. Toss in drama and angst and I'm completely hooked. Jason and Emma are the slow burn. A relationship that builds over years and is put through its paces by both dumb choices on their part and the outside world. This new adult book will have turning the page just to see how they can mess up things more and how they find their way out of it. I'm not sure whether to thank Kata for these new characters that are now living in my head or make her pay for my gym membership because of my increased craving for cheese danishes. This book does not disappoint in any way. I just hope their is more to come! (Review by Terri "Jane")
July 26, 2018
Revenge Love is exactly what I look for in a book. No matter the genre, I want to feel the books, to feel the pain, the emotions the authors put into their work. Revenge Love is bursting at the seams with feelings, with emotions!! This is such a deep story that really opened my mind and made me think outside of myself and my circle. Emma wants, no, Emma strives to fit in. To just be another sorority girl but she’s so much more than that. Jason would rather hide from the world or maybe just his very visible birthmark on his face. This makes him different from the other students. He’s always been on the outside looking in. But Emma won’t let him hide away.
I’m so thoroughly impressed with the story Kara Čuić created. It’s a book that is going to leave the reader thinking. What would you do in her/his place? What kind of friend and/or person are you. Ms. Čuić’s writing is flawless! The characters are people every reader is going to relate to. You have either been Emma or you have been Jason. It’s a story based on basic reality but the people or characters, in this case, make it special.
I really just want everyone to read this book. Think about the person you’ve been. Think about the person you are. Finally, think about the person you want to be. Are you that person? Make it happen. You have the power. You have the control.
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
I’m so thoroughly impressed with the story Kara Čuić created. It’s a book that is going to leave the reader thinking. What would you do in her/his place? What kind of friend and/or person are you. Ms. Čuić’s writing is flawless! The characters are people every reader is going to relate to. You have either been Emma or you have been Jason. It’s a story based on basic reality but the people or characters, in this case, make it special.
I really just want everyone to read this book. Think about the person you’ve been. Think about the person you are. Finally, think about the person you want to be. Are you that person? Make it happen. You have the power. You have the control.
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
August 6, 2018
Revenge Love by Kata Cuic
5 Star - Modern day Beauty and the Beast
This was a wow for me! I have never read any books by the author and I am so glad that I read this book. I have to say that I was a little thrown in the beginning, wondering if this lead female would ever have a relationship, friendship, conversation where people actually mean what they say… but then that was the beauty of it all.
It was like a complete awakening when the puzzles started to fit into place, when the true meanings were revealed. Oh and the Beauty behind the words, the feelings that were raw were all seen in the end. Like I said it clicked into place.
I questioned how the lead could let herself be treated in the non-existent relationship she initially had, but by the time I was done with the book, none of it mattered. It was the magic that happened after those encounters with her “ex”, when she went in search of the real emotional connection she needed.
This book turned into a modern day Beauty and the Beast and I absolutely loved it. He was a Villain and she was Sunshine. You will fall in love with Jason’s witty humor and Emma’s inner head ramblings. The book pulled me in all the way through to the end and I had to read the ending over and over.
When doing a review, I always ask myself would I recommend the book to my friends, absolutely. Would I read this author again.. you betcha. Did the book keep me enthralled to the point I had to see how it ended up, ohhh yes it did. Did I love it, HELL YES! Which is why I am giving this a 5 Stars.
5 Star - Modern day Beauty and the Beast
This was a wow for me! I have never read any books by the author and I am so glad that I read this book. I have to say that I was a little thrown in the beginning, wondering if this lead female would ever have a relationship, friendship, conversation where people actually mean what they say… but then that was the beauty of it all.
It was like a complete awakening when the puzzles started to fit into place, when the true meanings were revealed. Oh and the Beauty behind the words, the feelings that were raw were all seen in the end. Like I said it clicked into place.
I questioned how the lead could let herself be treated in the non-existent relationship she initially had, but by the time I was done with the book, none of it mattered. It was the magic that happened after those encounters with her “ex”, when she went in search of the real emotional connection she needed.
This book turned into a modern day Beauty and the Beast and I absolutely loved it. He was a Villain and she was Sunshine. You will fall in love with Jason’s witty humor and Emma’s inner head ramblings. The book pulled me in all the way through to the end and I had to read the ending over and over.
When doing a review, I always ask myself would I recommend the book to my friends, absolutely. Would I read this author again.. you betcha. Did the book keep me enthralled to the point I had to see how it ended up, ohhh yes it did. Did I love it, HELL YES! Which is why I am giving this a 5 Stars.
March 26, 2020
WOW....this book is hard to put into words. Tears come when thinking about it. Have you ever felt like the outsider, like you didn't fit in, didn't belong? This book tackles those issues and so much more. Love can come about when you try to push it away, love can erupt when needed and grow into something amazing. Love can also hurt and feel like a punishment.
Emma and Jason have this weird sort of friendship and while it may seem different it worked for them and you could see that no matter what there was something deeper there. Emma saw Jason for more then he even saw himself. His face was a turn off to most, but Emma never saw that when she looked at him. He was her rock and he relied on her in the same way.
And then you throw in life, Emma always want to do the right thing and wanted to please everyone and yet she never felt like she fit in anywhere or belonged anywhere...she wanted to be a "misfit" like Jason. It is hard to not care what others think of you and this is where I can totally relate to her and why this book makes me cry. I could feel everything about Emma as I read this and realized that she has so much strength in her and that while I don't feel that strong, I really do see myself in her.
This book for me is so relatable and that in itself makes it one of the best books I have ever read.
Emma and Jason have this weird sort of friendship and while it may seem different it worked for them and you could see that no matter what there was something deeper there. Emma saw Jason for more then he even saw himself. His face was a turn off to most, but Emma never saw that when she looked at him. He was her rock and he relied on her in the same way.
And then you throw in life, Emma always want to do the right thing and wanted to please everyone and yet she never felt like she fit in anywhere or belonged anywhere...she wanted to be a "misfit" like Jason. It is hard to not care what others think of you and this is where I can totally relate to her and why this book makes me cry. I could feel everything about Emma as I read this and realized that she has so much strength in her and that while I don't feel that strong, I really do see myself in her.
This book for me is so relatable and that in itself makes it one of the best books I have ever read.
July 25, 2018
3.5 stars for me
I had really mixed emotions about this book I really did love to hate and I mean that literally.
Emma I really struggled at times with her character she wanted to fit in so bad that she was desperate and I really wanted so shake her at times and tell her to stop being such a doormat and at other times I really felt sorry for her but everything she did was of her own making so........
Jason wants to be the villain of this story but he didn’t pull it off at all how can the beast be the villain it just doesnt happen ever and I’m glad cause I loved him and he made the book for me.
There was some elements of this story I loved all the college references about sororities fascinates me probably because I’m a UK girl and we don’t have that so I enjoy reading about college but at times I felt like the angst was in overdrive and normally I do love a good angsty read but it was so much it annoyed me at times but I guess it made me keep reading and that can only ever be a good thing.
I would recommend this book and I think that I will be in the minority with my opinion on this and I’m ok with that I really do like Kata writing style tho and will look forward to her next book.
I had really mixed emotions about this book I really did love to hate and I mean that literally.
Emma I really struggled at times with her character she wanted to fit in so bad that she was desperate and I really wanted so shake her at times and tell her to stop being such a doormat and at other times I really felt sorry for her but everything she did was of her own making so........
Jason wants to be the villain of this story but he didn’t pull it off at all how can the beast be the villain it just doesnt happen ever and I’m glad cause I loved him and he made the book for me.
There was some elements of this story I loved all the college references about sororities fascinates me probably because I’m a UK girl and we don’t have that so I enjoy reading about college but at times I felt like the angst was in overdrive and normally I do love a good angsty read but it was so much it annoyed me at times but I guess it made me keep reading and that can only ever be a good thing.
I would recommend this book and I think that I will be in the minority with my opinion on this and I’m ok with that I really do like Kata writing style tho and will look forward to her next book.
July 23, 2018
I have to say I did struggle somewhat with this story because the angst and college drama was off the charts. It was almost a little too much that it took a bit away from the actual story and the message it was conveying. The desperate need to fit in. I felt that there was a hostile undertone to the story towards Emma from both people who claim to be her friends and the people she was trying to please. It hurt my heart to see how Emma was treated but also how she treated her friends in some aspects. Jason is a tortured soul. All because of something he could not control. Seeing all these ups and downs and all arounds, there were time it made my head spin. I did enjoy the concept of the story though and in all honesty, because I was a total anti social when I was in Uni, this could be a realistic take on how angst and drama riddle that age can be. I honestly think it was me but this book is a good read. Just did not hit home for me. I would say totally give it a chance because it does make some amazing points and paints an interesting picture of how society treats one another. So please give this book a chance!
July 27, 2018
I love complex stories where the author takes me on a journey and my mind is sent in a million different directions. The angst in Revenge Love, though, is so over the top throughout the bulk of the story, I almost needed to come up for air before diving back into the words again. I wish I could say that I absolutely loved it, because there were parts of it that I did, but then there were other times I wanted to throw my tablet across the room.
In all honesty, I don't think I have ever struggled so much with characters as I did with Emma and Jason. One minute I liked them, then the next I hated them. The story itself was pretty intense and I'm okay with that, but the back and forth I had with Emma and Jason just sort of kept me distracted.
Kata Cuic is a brilliant author and I can see where she chose her words precisely, giving the reader full insight to what she was trying to say. She definitely spent lots of time plotting Revenge Love because there is just so much that happens. Almost too much, but it still made for quite an interesting read. I'm interested in checking out her other works to see they are as intense as this one.
In all honesty, I don't think I have ever struggled so much with characters as I did with Emma and Jason. One minute I liked them, then the next I hated them. The story itself was pretty intense and I'm okay with that, but the back and forth I had with Emma and Jason just sort of kept me distracted.
Kata Cuic is a brilliant author and I can see where she chose her words precisely, giving the reader full insight to what she was trying to say. She definitely spent lots of time plotting Revenge Love because there is just so much that happens. Almost too much, but it still made for quite an interesting read. I'm interested in checking out her other works to see they are as intense as this one.
September 25, 2019
In this new book by Kata Ciuc, we meet Emma, her two best friends Jason and Rosie and her ex Kieran. This book follows Emma as she goes through her final year in college and tries to still find herself and her wants before she is expected to become a true adult.
Like all books by Kata, her heroines are not perfect. She makes her characters have faults, ailments or anything else that helps them be more believable to her readers. like Emma got a bit whiny early in book but it just showed the reader that she was still growing as a character and as a person.
I loved how the author through each chapter went with Two truths and a lie. "Truth: If you don't fit with the crowd, it might be because you were born to lead it.
"In the end, I suppose we fit where we belong, regardless of effort or external similarities "
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book to NA romance lovers for the bit more mature scenes. And I HIGHLY RECOMMEND ALL books by Kata Ciuc because she truly is a phenomenal author who entertains her readers, causing us to be greedy wanting more books from her.
Like all books by Kata, her heroines are not perfect. She makes her characters have faults, ailments or anything else that helps them be more believable to her readers. like Emma got a bit whiny early in book but it just showed the reader that she was still growing as a character and as a person.
I loved how the author through each chapter went with Two truths and a lie. "Truth: If you don't fit with the crowd, it might be because you were born to lead it.
"In the end, I suppose we fit where we belong, regardless of effort or external similarities "
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book to NA romance lovers for the bit more mature scenes. And I HIGHLY RECOMMEND ALL books by Kata Ciuc because she truly is a phenomenal author who entertains her readers, causing us to be greedy wanting more books from her.
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