Love, Life, and the List by Kasie West

Love, Life, and the List by Kasie West
Release Date - December 26, 2017

Publisher Website - Harper Collins Canada
Publisher Social Media - Twitter/Facebook/SavvyReader/Frenzy
Pages -  384 pages
My Rating - 3.5/5
**received for an honest review from publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Seventeen-year-old Abby Turner’s summer isn’t going the way she’d planned. She has a not-so-secret but definitely unrequited crush on her best friend, Cooper. She hasn’t been able to manage her mother’s growing issues with anxiety. And now she’s been rejected from an art show because her work “has no heart.” So when she gets another opportunity to show her paintings Abby isn’t going to take any chances.

Which is where the list comes in.

Abby gives herself one month to do ten things, ranging from face a fear (#3) to learn a stranger’s story (#5) to fall in love (#8). She knows that if she can complete the list she’ll become the kind of artist she’s always dreamed of being. But as the deadline approaches, Abby realizes that getting through the list isn’t as straightforward as it seems… and that maybe—just maybe—she can’t change her art if she isn’t first willing to change herself.

This is the first in a set of three standalone books with crossover characters.

Books with lists are one of my (many) bookish weaknesses. I love the idea of a book that revolves around the main character completing a list and growing as a result. Kasie West's newest novel revolves around an artist attempting to gain some life experience to better her art. It's a cute, and heartfelt, read that existing fans will love.

This premise is perhaps one of my favourite out of all the books Kasie West has written. I love the idea of following a character on a specific journey and this book has that at its heart. The fact that this also has some great character growth only adds to this novel's appeal. Abby grows as a result of her journey in really evident ways. It is something I really enjoyed getting to experience because her experiences change her. I think all readers what to see that in the books they read.

The love story is perfect for those who love the 'friends to more' trope. It's classic Kasie West in that there are some adorable moments mixed with some great dramatic ones. I bought the chemistry between the two characters, along with the catalyst for their feelings coming out. It all felt really believable and natural. Their connection was, perhaps, one of my favourite things about this book.

Art is such a large part of Abby's story. It is the driving force behind her character and why she starts the list. It also is used to show how supportive Abby's family is. They take an active interest in her and her art and it was nice to see that reflected. Family dynamics are often missing from young adult novels and I liked seeing complex family relationships be a large part of the story.

The pacing felt a little rushed at the end, and I would have gladly welcomed another 100 or so pages to flesh out the ending and the growth that Abby experiences. It offers that classic Kasie West happy ending, but it didn't feel as tidy to me as some of her others have.

Those looking for a cute read that also has some great character growth will love this one. I just wish it had gone a little deeper into Abby's journey of self discovery. This is one that left a big smile on my face and that definitely makes it one I would recommend for young adult contemporary fans.

Waiting On Wednesday .... Love, Life and the List

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pick is Love, Life and the List by Kasie West.

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Seventeen-year-old Abby Turner’s summer isn’t going the way she’d planned. She has a not-so-secret but definitely unrequited crush on her best friend, Cooper. She hasn’t been able to manage her mother’s growing issues with anxiety. And now she’s been rejected from an art show because her work “has no heart.” So when she gets another opportunity to show her paintings Abby isn’t going to take any chances.

Which is where the list comes in.

Abby gives herself one month to do ten things, ranging from face a fear (#3) to learn a stranger’s story (#5) to fall in love (#8). She knows that if she can complete the list she’ll become the kind of artist she’s always dreamed of being. But as the deadline approaches, Abby realizes that getting through the list isn’t as straightforward as it seems… and that maybe—just maybe—she can’t change her art if she isn’t first willing to change herself.

I adore Kasie West's novels and I am so excited that she has another book coming out! Her books are always so cute and fluffy and it'll be a great read for after the holidays!

Not too long to wait for this one, and it'll be an excellent use of those holiday gift cards.

Expected release date - December 26, 2017

Lucky In Love by Kasie West

Lucky In Love by Kasie West
Release Date -  July 25, 2017

Publisher Website - Scholastic
Publisher Social Media - Twitter
Pages -  333 pages
My Rating - 3.5/5
**received for an honest review from publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Can’t buy me love…

Maddie’s not impulsive. She’s all about hard work and planning ahead. But one night, on a whim, she buys a lottery ticket. And then, to her astonishment—

She wins!

In a flash, Maddie’s life is unrecognizable. No more stressing about college scholarships. Suddenly, she’s talking about renting a yacht. And being in the spotlight at school is fun…until rumors start flying, and random people ask her for loans. Now Maddie isn’t sure who she can trust.

Except for Seth Nguyen, her funny, charming coworker at the local zoo. Seth doesn’t seem aware of Maddie’s big news. And, for some reason, she doesn’t want to tell him. But what will happen if he learns her secret? 

Everyone has had that daydreamof what they would do if they suddenly won the lottery. Most people just fantasize about how they would spend the money. The reality of what winning the lottery would be like is something that rarely intrudes on these daydreams. I expected Kasie West's Lucky In Love to be more like the daydream kind of lottery winning. I was pleasantly surprised, however, to find a lot of weight to the story mixed in the typical Kasie West cuteness.

Maddie's experience with winning the lottery is a mix of those dream moments we are all familiar with. She wants to buy herself a few things she's always wanted, and help out her family. She also includes more practical things like paying for her college education. While it highlights the upside of having enough money to do these things, it also is careful to showcase the ways in which her life changes that are not so great. She learns that money doesn't fix things. The problems she had that she thought were money related all turn out to be more complex than she thought. She has people who approach her that sometimes do not have her best interests at heart, and even has people using her for what she can now do for them. It is an aspect of this that hardly anyone really things about, mostly because it is so unlikely that you would ever actually win the lottery. However, with Kasie West's balance between lighthearted and serious it captures, what I feel, is a good mix of fantasy and reality when it comes to this situation.

The changes in Maddie's life are numerous and monumental. People treat her differently. Her family and friends are no exception. Having Maddie's family be such a large part of her story arc, and what she had to come to terms with, was a great touch. They were not immune to the changes Maddie's windfall brings, and it grounded the story in a way I was not expecting. There are issues dealt with that are tied to her lottery win within many of the relationships she has with both friends and family members.

The romance is typical Kasie West. It is filled with wonderfully sweet moments and is my favourite part of the novel. Fans of the 'friends to more' trope will especially appreciate the natural progression and the bond that is formed between Maddie and Seth. I also felt that the big moments of the romance were entirely realistic.In a novel where literally money was no object, at least for Maddie, the gestures were heartfelt, and realistic. It was simple in a way that a lot of other things in Maddie's life were not, and that is what made it so enjoyable.

My only real issue was that the other stuff outside the romance didn't feel as wrapped up, or explored as I wanted it to be. I wish we had gotten more time with the closure to that storyline. I recognize that what Maddie learns about herself and those around her would naturally lend itself to the ending that was given, I just wanted something from that entire storyline.

A fun, quick read that is guaranteed to leave you smiling. If you're a fan of Kasie West's previous novels, you'll finish this one entirely satisfied. Those who have yet to discover her, I urge you to pick up her books as I predict you'll be charmed by them all, including this one. I feel like she is a must read for contemporary young adult fans, and feel like younger teens will especially love her novels.

Weekly Obsessions

The awesome Kelly at KellyVision started posting a weekly post highlighting whatever she happened to be obsessed with that week. I LOVE this idea, so much in fact that I will be doing it myself every Saturday

Happy Canada Day to all my fellow Canadians out there!

I have a few fun things to share this week!

BOOK

Cover of Kasie West's Love, Life and the List (goodreads)

I love Kasie West's books and her covers are always super adorable. Her upcoming release is no exception. I mean, how cute is this cover?!

I love books where the main character makes lists so I am excited to get my hands on this one!

Cover of Kim Leggitt's Heart Of Ash (goodreads)

I enjoyed Kim Leggitt's Blood and Salt so much and have been counting down the days until the sequel would be released. The cover has finally been revealed ... 

I love that it matches the first enough that they will look pretty together on bookshelves, but different enough to not be a direct copy. I cannot wait to read this and hope it is sexy, and unsettling as the first was. 

OTHER

My Favorite Murder 

I have mentioned this podcast before, but I have binged the heck out of it recently and am even more obsessed. It is a must listen for fans of true crime. The two hosts blend the seriousness of the topic with some humour. I highly recommend it if you enjoy true crime.

What are you obsessed with this week?

By Your Side by Kasie West

By Your Side by Kasie West
Release Date -  January 31, 2017

Publisher Website - Harper Collins
Publisher Social Media - Twitter/Facebook/SavvyReader/Frenzy
Pages -  352 pages
My Rating - 3.5/5
**received for review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

In this irresistible story, Kasie West explores the timeless question of what to do when you fall for the person you least expect. Witty and romantic, this paperback original from a fan favorite is perfect for fans of Stephanie Perkins and Morgan Matson.

When Autumn Collins finds herself accidentally locked in the library for an entire weekend, she doesn’t think things could get any worse. But that’s before she realizes that Dax Miller is locked in with her. Autumn doesn’t know much about Dax except that he’s trouble. Between the rumors about the fight he was in (and that brief stint in juvie that followed it) and his reputation as a loner, he’s not exactly the ideal person to be stuck with. Still, she just keeps reminding herself that it is only a matter of time before Jeff, her almost-boyfriend, realizes he left her in the library and comes to rescue her.

Only he doesn’t come. No one does.

Instead it becomes clear that Autumn is going to have to spend the next couple of days living off vending-machine food and making conversation with a boy who clearly wants nothing to do with her. Except there is more to Dax than meets the eye. As he and Autumn first grudgingly, and then not so grudgingly, open up to each other, Autumn is struck by their surprising connection. But can their feelings for each other survive once the weekend is over and Autumn’s old life, and old love interest, threaten to pull her from Dax’s side? In this irresistible story, Kasie West explores the timeless question of what to do when you fall for the person you least expect. Witty and romantic, this paperback original from a fan favorite is perfect for fans of Stephanie Perkins and Morgan Matson.

When Autumn Collins finds herself accidentally locked in the library for an entire weekend, she doesn’t think things could get any worse. But that’s before she realizes that Dax Miller is locked in with her. Autumn doesn’t know much about Dax except that he’s trouble. Between the rumors about the fight he was in (and that brief stint in juvie that followed it) and his reputation as a loner, he’s not exactly the ideal person to be stuck with. Still, she just keeps reminding herself that it is only a matter of time before Jeff, her almost-boyfriend, realizes he left her in the library and comes to rescue her.

Only he doesn’t come. No one does.

Instead it becomes clear that Autumn is going to have to spend the next couple of days living off vending-machine food and making conversation with a boy who clearly wants nothing to do with her. Except there is more to Dax than meets the eye. As he and Autumn first grudgingly, and then not so grudgingly, open up to each other, Autumn is struck by their surprising connection. But can their feelings for each other survive once the weekend is over and Autumn’s old life, and old love interest, threaten to pull her from Dax’s side? 

Stranded in a library for an entire long weekend. Pretty much every book nerd's dream come true, at least on the surface but maybe not so much in theory. There may be all the books you could read but there are thing like the lack of food and heat that make this the opposite of fun. Kasie West mixes this premise with some sweet romance to create a novel that is classic Kasie West.

There is a lot of cute fluff within these pages, especially in the beginning of the novel, but the story does take a more serious turn once Autumn's panic attacks and Dax's past begin to play a larger role. Their romance is slowly built on how much they actually have in common and how right they are together. Dax calms Autumn and vice versa. They are simply what each other needs. It's like a perfectly fitting puzzle piece, even if it takes them a little while to realize this.

Autumn's need to please others, and not create waves stems from her desire to be liked. She doesn't want her friends looking at her differently. Her panic attacks ensure that she doesn't like being the centre of attention either. Plenty of people will be able to relate to aspects of her personality.

The biggest stand out, however, were the friends Autumn has. They were so supportive of Autumn and each other in general. Kasie West always tends to write really great friendships and this is no exception. It showcases how friendships should be, and I think that is an incredibly important message for everyone to learn.

This is a story of finding the courage to seek out what you actually want for yourself, and discovering what is good for you versa what is not. It's about knowing your limits and not being scared to voice what makes you uncomfortable. It may be about romance on the surface, but underneath each of the characters is discovering how to use their voice to get what they really need.

A cute, feel good novel for when you need to escape. A novel that will delight Kasie West fans as it gives you exactly what you're hoping for. It's exactly the kind of read you want to pick up after finishing something heavy as it'll leave you with a smile on your face.

Waiting On Wednesday .... By Your Side

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

My pick this week is By Your Side by Kasie West

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

In this irresistible story, Kasie West explores the timeless question of what to do when you fall for the person you least expect. Witty and romantic, this paperback original from a fan favorite is perfect for fans of Stephanie Perkins and Morgan Matson.

When Autumn Collins finds herself accidentally locked in the library for an entire weekend, she doesn’t think things could get any worse. But that’s before she realizes that Dax Miller is locked in with her. Autumn doesn’t know much about Dax except that he’s trouble. Between the rumors about the fight he was in (and that brief stint in juvie that followed it) and his reputation as a loner, he’s not exactly the ideal person to be stuck with. Still, she just keeps reminding herself that it is only a matter of time before Jeff, her almost-boyfriend, realizes he left her in the library and comes to rescue her.

Only he doesn’t come. No one does.

Instead it becomes clear that Autumn is going to have to spend the next couple of days living off vending-machine food and making conversation with a boy who clearly wants nothing to do with her. Except there is more to Dax than meets the eye. As he and Autumn first grudgingly, and then not so grudgingly, open up to each other, Autumn is struck by their surprising connection. But can their feelings for each other survive once the weekend is over and Autumn’s old life, and old love interest, threaten to pull her from Dax’s side? 

A weekend by yourself in a library may sound like most book lovers idea of heaven but add in a swoon worthy boy and you have the makings of an incredibly cute YA novel. Kasie West's novels always leave a smile on your face and I predict this one will be no exception.

The release date of this one is kind of perfect as it'll be the perfect Valentine's date no matter if you're single or celebrating with someone special. Pair this with a cup of rich hot chocolate and it's pretty much the perfect evening.

Expected release date - February 14, 2017

P.S. I Like You by Kasie West

P.S. I Like You by Kasie West
Release Date - July 26, 2016

Publisher Website - Scholastic
Publisher Social Media - Twitter
Pages - 304 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**received from publisher for an honest review**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Signed, sealed, delivered…

While spacing out in chemistry class, Lily scribbles some of her favorite song lyrics onto her desk. The next day, she finds that someone has continued the lyrics on the desk and added a message to her. Intrigue!

Soon, Lily and her anonymous pen pal are exchanging full-on letters—sharing secrets, recommending bands, and opening up to each other. Lily realizes she’s kind of falling for this letter writer. Only, who is he? As Lily attempts to unravel the mystery and juggle school, friends, crushes, and her crazy family, she discovers that matters of the heart can’t always be spelled out…

Kasie West's books are always fun, light and a great summer read. P.S. I Like You piqued my interest because it had the added element of falling for someone you didn't see face to face. As predicted, this turned out to be a fun, quick read that left me smiling.

Part of the fun of this novel is attempting to discover who Lily's mystery note writer is. It is not a complex mystery and I felt I figured it out pretty quickly, but the more important part of the story is what comes after. What happens after Lily finds out who it is. That creates a whole other story arc that is the heart of the story and one that is really one done.

This novel includes two of my favourite romance tropes in one relationship. The first is falling for someone while not communicating face to face. Lily falls for her mystery note writer because of who he is, and what he shares in the letter. This often allows people to say things they have a harder time saying face to face (especially while just starting to get to know someone) and it made their connection feel realistic. The second trope is too spoilery but, needless to say, Kasie West's version of this trope is perfectly done.

The relationship starts as a bond over music, and that passion for music is laced throughout the story. It gives the romance something to build off of and that makes it entirely believable. I often find that the romance in novels is based off of little more than good looks. Kasie West shows the importance of shared interest and the value in being able to have a conversation with the person you're dating. I, personally, think it made this romance effortless because you believed  that these two characters would fall for each other.

Wrapped inside this book is the message of not judging people by what you see, especially if you don't know them well. They have the ability to surprise as you get to know them, and reveal things about themselves that were not apparent at first. This combined with the family story arcs, added a touch of depth to the story that added nuance to the relationship being built.

If you're looking for a lighter book that end your summer reading before it is the season of pumpkin spice lattes, and falling leaves, this one you should pick up. It has ridiculous amounts of charm, and a love story that will leave you smiling.

New To My Book Closet

It's that time of the week again. Time to show you what bookish goodies made their way into my home and book closet (to be saved from the evil book eating cat monster named Aria). This is inspired by the various "mailbox" posts out there (eg. In My Mailbox by The Story Siren, and Stacking the Shelves by Tynga's Reviews).

I have had lots of amazing goodies make their way into my mailbox this week.

First up is my birthday gift from my lovely friend Christy (aka The Reader Bee). She sent me something that is so ME. I love it so much I may need to get a matching one for my couch.

This Peter Pan pillow is designed by the equally lovely Evie Seo. Be sure to check out her Society6 shop where this was purchased. I need a mug, and a set of the carry all pouches with this design. It's seriously my favourite. Thank you again, Christy! So much!

Next are two review copies that made their way into my mailbox. I may have squealed when the new Morgan Matson arrived. I cannot wait to dive into this one and fall in love with these new characters.

P.S. I Like You by Kasie West (goodreads)
The Unexpected Everything by Morgan Matson (goodreads)

PS I Like You just looks super cute and fun! Thanks to Simon and Schuster and Scholastic for these pretties! I cannot wait to review them.

My lovely #otspsecretsister (aka Tink) sent me a fantastic birthday package! It's basically a birthday in a box and I love it so much! I cannot wait to try the cake. I am saving it for a special occasion (perhaps the Outlander season 2 premiere here in Canada tomorrow!).

It's super fun, and I want to say thank you to 'Tink' again! It brightened my day! It was incredibly thoughtful of you and it made this birthday extra special.

Lastly, a book I ordered came! I have been dying to read this one. It sounds like Cruel Intentions meets Gossip Girl and I am SO IN! I am hoping to fit it in my very packed schedule soon!

Paper Princess by Erin Watt (goodreads)

What bookish items made their way into your mailbox this week?

Happy Weekend and Happy Reading!

Weekly Obsessions

The awesome Kelly at KellyVision started posting a weekly post highlighting whatever she happened to be obsessed with that week. I LOVE this idea, so much in fact that I will be doing it myself every Saturday.

BOOK

P.S. I Love You by Kasie West (goodreads)

I immediately added this to my 'To Be Read' list as soon as soon as I read the brief, but adorable sounding synopsis.

A girl finds herself falling for a mystery boy she exchanges letters with.

It's not much to go on but it sounds cute, and I've heard amazing things about Kasie West! I cannot wait for more information.

TV/MOVIE

iZombie

I am so hooked on this show. I love Rose McIver's charming performance. I love the chemistry between Liv and Lowell. I love friendship between Liv and Ravi (I basically just love Ravi). The larger mystery of the show is only beginning to unravel and I am so happy that it was already renewed for a second season.

OTHER

Book Expo America

Tuesday will be 2 weeks until I am officially in NYC for Book Expo America. I only have 11 work shifts left before I am on vacation. I am very much looking forward to both being on vacation and being in NYC. I have a lot of things to do between now and leaving so it's going to both take forever to get here and come much too quickly.

2016 Most Anticipated Event 

We're almost at the halfway mark for 2015. This means I, a person who plans well in advance, will start working on my 2016 Most Anticipated Event. I already have a list of books that I will whittle down to a short list later on in July/August and I have some plans to make this year's event even more amazing. I am really looking forward to learning more about the 2016 releases that I am already excited for and discovering new ones as well!

What are you obsessed with this week?

New To My Book Closet

It's that time of the week again. Time to show you what bookish goodies made their way into my home and book closet (to be saved from the evil book eating cat monster named Aria). This is inspired by the various "mailbox" posts out there (eg. In My Mailbox by The Story Siren, and Stacking the Shelves by Tynga's Reviews).

A lovely package from my Broke and Bookish Santa arrived. The awesome Sarah from Exploring All Genres was my secret Santa and she gifted me with some amazing goodies.

Pivot Point by Kasie West (goodreads)
Forever by Maggie Stiefvater (goodreads)

She also included some chocolate, tea, and a mini Peter Pan! I am very excited to finish off Maggie Stiefvater's series (and be able to finally read Sinner) and I've heard amazing things about Pivot Point.

A huge thank you to Sarah!

Happy weekend, and happy reading!

Waiting on Wednesday....Pivot Point

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

My pick this week is Pivot Point by Kasie West

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Addison Coleman's life is one big "What if?" As a Searcher, whenever Addie is faced with a choice, she can look into the future and see both outcomes. It's the ultimate insurance plan against disaster. Or so she thought. When Addie's parents ambush her with the news of their divorce, she has to pick who she wants to live with–her father, who is leaving the paranormal compound to live among the "Norms," or her mother, who is staying in the life Addie has always known. Addie loves her life just as it is, so her answer should be easy. One Search six weeks into the future proves it's not.

In one potential future, Addie is adjusting to life outside the Compound as the new girl in a Norm high school where she meets Trevor, a cute, sensitive artist who understands her. In the other path, Addie is being pursued by the hottest guy in school–but she never wanted to be a quarterback's girlfriend. When Addie's father is asked to consult on a murder in the compound, she's unwittingly drawn into a drawn into a dangerous game that threatens everything she holds dear. With love and loss in both lives, it all comes down to which reality she's willing to live through...and who she can't live without.

This reminds me a little of the movie Sliding Doors which I enjoyed. I am intrigued by the thought of two different paths and having to make a choice. If given the chance I think most people would love to see what the consequences of their choices are. I can't wait to see if this is as awesome as it sounds.

Expected release date - Febuary 12, 2013