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Broken Heartland #1
Storm Warning
Sometimes you can’t see the storm coming until it’s too late...
Severe Storm Warning Tip #1:
Be alert to changing weather conditions. Look for approaching storms.
Severe Storm Warning Tip #2:
If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.
Severe Storm Warning Tip #3:
They may strike quickly, with little or no warning.
Situated just outside of Oklahoma City, Calumet County is divided into two drastically different communities: Hope’s Grove and Summit Bluffs. One is the small backward town where dirt roads lead the way to field parties and railroad tracks. And the other, a sprawling suburb where paved drives lead to the landscaped lawns of the wealthy and over privileged.
For five teenagers smack in the middle of Tornado Alley, summer is heating up fast. The winds of change are blurring the invisible line that divides the rich and the rural.
One has a secret.
One has a crush.
One has been lying.
One will get caught.
And one might not make it out alive.
They’re from two different worlds…but one summer is about to change everything.
Severe Storm Warning Tip #1:
Be alert to changing weather conditions. Look for approaching storms.
Severe Storm Warning Tip #2:
If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.
Severe Storm Warning Tip #3:
They may strike quickly, with little or no warning.
Situated just outside of Oklahoma City, Calumet County is divided into two drastically different communities: Hope’s Grove and Summit Bluffs. One is the small backward town where dirt roads lead the way to field parties and railroad tracks. And the other, a sprawling suburb where paved drives lead to the landscaped lawns of the wealthy and over privileged.
For five teenagers smack in the middle of Tornado Alley, summer is heating up fast. The winds of change are blurring the invisible line that divides the rich and the rural.
One has a secret.
One has a crush.
One has been lying.
One will get caught.
And one might not make it out alive.
They’re from two different worlds…but one summer is about to change everything.
202 pages, Paperback
First published December 10, 2013
25 people are currently reading
2,617 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
January 3, 2014
4.5
Fuck! No! Oh my fucking God. It did NOT just end there. What the holy mother of bull shit?? Ahhhhh!! That is so cruel! OMG!! That last 20% had me constantly on edge. Jesus. As long as Cami and Coop are okay, I'll be okay. Oh wait, and Ellie May. Oh God please. That epilogue. What the crap is that? What. The. Hell?????
Awesome story!!! Totally amazing! I need the next one dammit!!
****MASSIVE RANT ALERT...READ AT YOUR OWN RISK AND DON'T BITCH FOR TOO MUCH CURSING. THANK YOU!****
Oh my sweet Jesus of all that is holy. I need to write this review because I can't stop reeling from this godforsaken cliffhanger that was just thrown at us. FUCK!!!!!!!
Okay, so take it from someone who's lived in Oklahoma, and more precisely, Tornado Alley. When there's a storm a comin, you take fucking shelter. It's pretty scary. Like holy fuck scary.
Anyway, this was pretty awesome. I was gifted this book from Caisey Quinn just last night. I've had my eye on this book for weeks and I can't tell you how giddy I was to finally have my greedy hands on it. THANK YOU CAISEY!!!!!!!
So I started it right away. Holy shitballs, I was sucked in right from the beginning.
So here it is, we got Kyle Mason who lives in Oklahoma as a farmer. Ella Jane, also known as EJ or Ellie May. She's Kyle's little sister, except she's not really little. She's 16, but Kyle is her older, protective sexy brother. God, I LOVE Kyle. Ahhhhh! LOVE LOVE LOVE.
And then there's Coop. Well, Brantley Cooper, but he goes by Coop. I LOVE YOU COOP! #TEAMCOOP He's Kyle's best friend and EJ's long-time crush. He's gonna be a senior, EJ's gonna be a Junior and Kyle is going off to college. Kyle asks Coop to take care of her and make sure she doesn't get hurt while he's away at college.When Coop and EJ finally come to terms with their feelings for each other, something is always in the way. Coop is such an amazing friend. He loves Kyle and doesn't want to ruin his friendship with EJ, because bros before hos and all that shit, right?
Well, that's how he sees it. So when there's an opportunity to tell Kyle his true feelings about Ellie May, he says some stupid shit to drive her away. Ah! That truly killed me, Coop. But I forgive you as long as I can have your babies. Oh wait, did I say that out loud? Well oh well. I want your babies. Ha ha
So then we have Cameron(Cami) and Hayden(Asshole) who live in the rich snobby parts of Oklahoma. Hayden and Cami are together in the beginning but when the summer approaches, they decide to take a break because she's supposed to be on some island for the summer with her I'm-a-bitch-from-hell-cares-for-no one-but-myself mother, so she wants to be able to have summer flings with hot guys while she's gone. Hayden's cool with it. They're both forced into a relationship from their parents because they're the popular kids in school and have to be perfect blah blah fucking blah. Even though they only have sex and haven't had any emotional feelings toward each other. So when she finds out that her mom ditches her because she didn't win the motherfucking pageant, which she was like runner up for, she's all "well I said we'd celebrate if you won the pageant, but you didn't win so I'm gonna go off to the island by myself and shag every twenty year old in sight. Toodle-fucking-loo". I mean, really? What a bitch from HELL! Fuck you mom and your stupid pageant bull shit. I hated that woman. So poor Cami is left on her own for the summer to tweedle her thumbs and she's bummed. Her dad's not as bad but he doesn't stick around either. He's off on some work shit in another town and leaves her. I mean, where are these people from? Stupid parents that don't know proper parenting from their ass hole. Only Sophie their maid is there in the big house with Cami. She's the only one to ever give her any attention. This girl is affection-deprived. Poor thang! Ah! But when her parents hire help for the summer to take care of the lawn, guess who it is.
GUESS.
YES! It's Kyle Mason to the rescue! Holy shit their first interaction by the pool, was priceless. Holy shit! I was swooning like a crazy bitch. I loved Kyle from the first word. He's so hot. *sighs dreamily*
Anyway, they meet and sparks fly like no other. The sexual tension thick as glass. DAYUM! That boy can make your panties melt right off you. The shit that comes out of his mouth makes you turn into putty at his feet. It's true. I'm in love with Kyle. Yes. So Kyle is the new lawn guy. He comes over weekly, daily, hell I forgot. He's such a distraction to my thoughts right now. But each time he comes over to cut the grass and weed and all that shit, he and Cami form a bond. It's beautiful. Lovely. Amazing. Real. Sweet. Hot. You get the point.
She's never been so close to someone on an emotional level. And neither has he. But the more time they spend, the more their attraction becomes such a wonderful blooming flower. Okay, really I can go on and on. It's clear and cut and dry...I know I'm beating a dead horse in the mouth and that's really sad because I love horses. So I'll just say that Cami and Kyle share something new and exciting. But the only problem is, Cami doesn't share all her family secrets with him. He doesn't know everything about her the way he thinks. He only knows that she's never been told she's loved by her piss poor-rich asshole parents. And they expect her and Hayden to get married and grow old and live happily ever after.
Ummmm, HELL NO! Cami doesn't love Hayden you dumb shits! If only you'd get your head out of your asses you'd know that. But sure it makes sense to them because of their social status and popularity.
Now that Hayden is free, he's shipped off to out-of-nowhere Oklahoma, where he has to help his grandfather tend his farm and landscaping business. Where he meets the Mason's because he's working for them. Kyle and EJ's father had an affair and walked out on the family so their mother is struggling with tending the house and shit. Another stupid asshole parent. What is wrong with all these douchebag parents that shit all over their kids? Poor Kyle. It's a lot for him to deal wit, especially when he finds out he's got a scholarship for football and he's gonna be great. But does it really matter now that everything has changed?
So Hayden helps with the business and meets EJ. That's all I'm saying about that.
Okay, my thoughts....I LOVED this book! Hardcore. When I found out it was in many pov's, I wasn't sure how it'd work. I did at first get confused but I pretty quickly was able to keep up. It worked. I loved the dynamic of these characters. The development was perfect. The pace was quick and easy to follow. The execution was just right. But holy shit on a stick fucking bloody hell it ends. CLIFFIE! Holy cliffie fuck! Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! I need that next book NOW!!!!!!!
I know many loved Hayden, but I didn't. Not one bit. Not even a hair. I'm not sure why. But honestly? I didn't feel the connection between him and EJ the way I felt it for Coop and Ellie May, which is his nickname for her. It's so sweet. Oh yeah, and another thing...I found Hayden to be a rich stuck-up arrogant asshole. Sorry, you can't love them all. And I sure as fuck didn't love him. Nope. COOP COOP COOP COOP! Of course I love Kyle so much! Is it obvious by how I talk about him and sigh and act like a giddy teenager? Good cause that's my intention. He's just the best of all of them.
I loved Cami too. Kyle and Cami are the best! EJ was sometimes a bitch but she, for the most part wasn't too bad. I just hope and pray and hope and pray and fucking hope like hell the next book will make me happy because after this ending, I'll need to be happy. I need my happy ending for Kyle and Coop. Omg, I'm so nervous. NERVOUS! How could you?? Seriously! Something happens at the end and I was literally not breathing. I'm so scared. OMG, ladies write fast. Please!
I think this about wraps up my ranting review. Go read it and see for yourself what a crazy cliffie this shit is. You'll be screaming and yelling and cursing like I was. And still am. And it's after 3 am. But who needs sleep, right? Ahhh, I guess I could sleep and dream of Kyle and Coop in my bed. Oh yeah, I'm gonna go now and have naughty dreams.
Still thinking about Kyle, hours later. He's become a top book boyfriend. I need more Kyle in my life. Now!!
Fuck! No! Oh my fucking God. It did NOT just end there. What the holy mother of bull shit?? Ahhhhh!! That is so cruel! OMG!! That last 20% had me constantly on edge. Jesus. As long as Cami and Coop are okay, I'll be okay. Oh wait, and Ellie May. Oh God please. That epilogue. What the crap is that? What. The. Hell?????
Awesome story!!! Totally amazing! I need the next one dammit!!
****MASSIVE RANT ALERT...READ AT YOUR OWN RISK AND DON'T BITCH FOR TOO MUCH CURSING. THANK YOU!****
Oh my sweet Jesus of all that is holy. I need to write this review because I can't stop reeling from this godforsaken cliffhanger that was just thrown at us. FUCK!!!!!!!
Okay, so take it from someone who's lived in Oklahoma, and more precisely, Tornado Alley. When there's a storm a comin, you take fucking shelter. It's pretty scary. Like holy fuck scary.
Anyway, this was pretty awesome. I was gifted this book from Caisey Quinn just last night. I've had my eye on this book for weeks and I can't tell you how giddy I was to finally have my greedy hands on it. THANK YOU CAISEY!!!!!!!
So I started it right away. Holy shitballs, I was sucked in right from the beginning.
So here it is, we got Kyle Mason who lives in Oklahoma as a farmer. Ella Jane, also known as EJ or Ellie May. She's Kyle's little sister, except she's not really little. She's 16, but Kyle is her older, protective sexy brother. God, I LOVE Kyle. Ahhhhh! LOVE LOVE LOVE.
And then there's Coop. Well, Brantley Cooper, but he goes by Coop. I LOVE YOU COOP! #TEAMCOOP He's Kyle's best friend and EJ's long-time crush. He's gonna be a senior, EJ's gonna be a Junior and Kyle is going off to college. Kyle asks Coop to take care of her and make sure she doesn't get hurt while he's away at college.When Coop and EJ finally come to terms with their feelings for each other, something is always in the way. Coop is such an amazing friend. He loves Kyle and doesn't want to ruin his friendship with EJ, because bros before hos and all that shit, right?
Well, that's how he sees it. So when there's an opportunity to tell Kyle his true feelings about Ellie May, he says some stupid shit to drive her away. Ah! That truly killed me, Coop. But I forgive you as long as I can have your babies. Oh wait, did I say that out loud? Well oh well. I want your babies. Ha ha
So then we have Cameron(Cami) and Hayden(Asshole) who live in the rich snobby parts of Oklahoma. Hayden and Cami are together in the beginning but when the summer approaches, they decide to take a break because she's supposed to be on some island for the summer with her I'm-a-bitch-from-hell-cares-for-no one-but-myself mother, so she wants to be able to have summer flings with hot guys while she's gone. Hayden's cool with it. They're both forced into a relationship from their parents because they're the popular kids in school and have to be perfect blah blah fucking blah. Even though they only have sex and haven't had any emotional feelings toward each other. So when she finds out that her mom ditches her because she didn't win the motherfucking pageant, which she was like runner up for, she's all "well I said we'd celebrate if you won the pageant, but you didn't win so I'm gonna go off to the island by myself and shag every twenty year old in sight. Toodle-fucking-loo". I mean, really? What a bitch from HELL! Fuck you mom and your stupid pageant bull shit. I hated that woman. So poor Cami is left on her own for the summer to tweedle her thumbs and she's bummed. Her dad's not as bad but he doesn't stick around either. He's off on some work shit in another town and leaves her. I mean, where are these people from? Stupid parents that don't know proper parenting from their ass hole. Only Sophie their maid is there in the big house with Cami. She's the only one to ever give her any attention. This girl is affection-deprived. Poor thang! Ah! But when her parents hire help for the summer to take care of the lawn, guess who it is.
GUESS.
YES! It's Kyle Mason to the rescue! Holy shit their first interaction by the pool, was priceless. Holy shit! I was swooning like a crazy bitch. I loved Kyle from the first word. He's so hot. *sighs dreamily*
Anyway, they meet and sparks fly like no other. The sexual tension thick as glass. DAYUM! That boy can make your panties melt right off you. The shit that comes out of his mouth makes you turn into putty at his feet. It's true. I'm in love with Kyle. Yes. So Kyle is the new lawn guy. He comes over weekly, daily, hell I forgot. He's such a distraction to my thoughts right now. But each time he comes over to cut the grass and weed and all that shit, he and Cami form a bond. It's beautiful. Lovely. Amazing. Real. Sweet. Hot. You get the point.
She's never been so close to someone on an emotional level. And neither has he. But the more time they spend, the more their attraction becomes such a wonderful blooming flower. Okay, really I can go on and on. It's clear and cut and dry...I know I'm beating a dead horse in the mouth and that's really sad because I love horses. So I'll just say that Cami and Kyle share something new and exciting. But the only problem is, Cami doesn't share all her family secrets with him. He doesn't know everything about her the way he thinks. He only knows that she's never been told she's loved by her piss poor-rich asshole parents. And they expect her and Hayden to get married and grow old and live happily ever after.
Ummmm, HELL NO! Cami doesn't love Hayden you dumb shits! If only you'd get your head out of your asses you'd know that. But sure it makes sense to them because of their social status and popularity.
Now that Hayden is free, he's shipped off to out-of-nowhere Oklahoma, where he has to help his grandfather tend his farm and landscaping business. Where he meets the Mason's because he's working for them. Kyle and EJ's father had an affair and walked out on the family so their mother is struggling with tending the house and shit. Another stupid asshole parent. What is wrong with all these douchebag parents that shit all over their kids? Poor Kyle. It's a lot for him to deal wit, especially when he finds out he's got a scholarship for football and he's gonna be great. But does it really matter now that everything has changed?
So Hayden helps with the business and meets EJ. That's all I'm saying about that.
Okay, my thoughts....I LOVED this book! Hardcore. When I found out it was in many pov's, I wasn't sure how it'd work. I did at first get confused but I pretty quickly was able to keep up. It worked. I loved the dynamic of these characters. The development was perfect. The pace was quick and easy to follow. The execution was just right. But holy shit on a stick fucking bloody hell it ends. CLIFFIE! Holy cliffie fuck! Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! I need that next book NOW!!!!!!!
I know many loved Hayden, but I didn't. Not one bit. Not even a hair. I'm not sure why. But honestly? I didn't feel the connection between him and EJ the way I felt it for Coop and Ellie May, which is his nickname for her. It's so sweet. Oh yeah, and another thing...I found Hayden to be a rich stuck-up arrogant asshole. Sorry, you can't love them all. And I sure as fuck didn't love him. Nope. COOP COOP COOP COOP! Of course I love Kyle so much! Is it obvious by how I talk about him and sigh and act like a giddy teenager? Good cause that's my intention. He's just the best of all of them.
I loved Cami too. Kyle and Cami are the best! EJ was sometimes a bitch but she, for the most part wasn't too bad. I just hope and pray and hope and pray and fucking hope like hell the next book will make me happy because after this ending, I'll need to be happy. I need my happy ending for Kyle and Coop. Omg, I'm so nervous. NERVOUS! How could you?? Seriously! Something happens at the end and I was literally not breathing. I'm so scared. OMG, ladies write fast. Please!
I think this about wraps up my ranting review. Go read it and see for yourself what a crazy cliffie this shit is. You'll be screaming and yelling and cursing like I was. And still am. And it's after 3 am. But who needs sleep, right? Ahhh, I guess I could sleep and dream of Kyle and Coop in my bed. Oh yeah, I'm gonna go now and have naughty dreams.
Still thinking about Kyle, hours later. He's become a top book boyfriend. I need more Kyle in my life. Now!!
December 4, 2013
http://www.bibliobelles.com/book-blit...
*I received an ARC from the Authors for an honest review*
This book!! This book is THAT book, the book I actually couldn’t put down. It’s that good. Like I went to bed reading this book and didn’t go to sleep until 3am good! I am so happy that these two amazing Author’s decided to come together because they truly have started an immensely powerful new young adult series! You will fall in love with these characters and the amazing storylines that they all have. It’s truly one of the best books I’ve read this year. And definitely my number one book in this genre!
“This girl was his audible. The one who was about to change the play. Or maybe even the whole damn game.”
#TeamHayden, #TeamCoop, #TeamCami, #TeamEllaJane, #TeamKyle
You’re probably thinking uhmmmm there’s three guys and only two girls, how is this gonna work? Will there be a love triangle? Ha! Well obviously there’s some good juicy old fashioned angst in this book that really brings you to a land of butterflies in your tummy and first love’s. Each character is so different and unique that I felt myself falling for each of them at different moments. You have sweet Ella Jane Mason or EJ for short who you really can’t help but love, she has a great attitude about life and is independent and sweetly vulnerable at the same time. She will definitely have some burning love hurdles to jump over, and hopefully she’ll land the way I hope she does. Although with these two Author’s sneaky writing you never know, they might turn me!
Then you have Kyle Mason, who is EJ’s older brother. Coop, who is Kyle’s best friend as well as lifelong friend of EJ. And then there’s Hayden, who might seem like he’s spoiled and perfect but he’s not and his character grew on me big time. All 3 of these guys will own a piece of your heart after this book, I can promise you that! And then we have Cami, I really loved her. I believe that she will have a bad reputation due to the fact that she’s a spoiled beauty queen, but once you peel the layers back I truly believe she has a lot of good in her. She’s searching for something that I don’t think even she knows the outcome of. And I really can’t wait to see how her character develops throughout this series.
You get to see this story through the eyes of all the characters which I really loved. The writing is really smooth, and the transitions from scene to scene are seamless. Every time one chapter ended I was excited to see where the next chapter would take me. And the journey through these young people’s lives is worth every minute. I found a little piece of myself in every character, which made them all so relatable. I believe that all of us have good and bad in ourselves somewhere, and that’s why this book is so good! You get to see these amazing characters and their entirely different personalities shift and change throughout the story. Some moving forward and others moving backwards, or staying stagnant. Either way, it makes for a great read. There’s some drama near the end that will have you freaking, and gasping, and speculating your brains out! And I really CANNOT wait to see how this story plays out. This series will be amazing if the rest of it is any bit as good as the first and I have no doubts that it will be! C. Quinn & E. Lee did an unreal job!
“Fireworks went off around them as they both fell headfirst in love for the first time ever.”
*I received an ARC from the Authors for an honest review*
This book!! This book is THAT book, the book I actually couldn’t put down. It’s that good. Like I went to bed reading this book and didn’t go to sleep until 3am good! I am so happy that these two amazing Author’s decided to come together because they truly have started an immensely powerful new young adult series! You will fall in love with these characters and the amazing storylines that they all have. It’s truly one of the best books I’ve read this year. And definitely my number one book in this genre!
“This girl was his audible. The one who was about to change the play. Or maybe even the whole damn game.”
#TeamHayden, #TeamCoop, #TeamCami, #TeamEllaJane, #TeamKyle
You’re probably thinking uhmmmm there’s three guys and only two girls, how is this gonna work? Will there be a love triangle? Ha! Well obviously there’s some good juicy old fashioned angst in this book that really brings you to a land of butterflies in your tummy and first love’s. Each character is so different and unique that I felt myself falling for each of them at different moments. You have sweet Ella Jane Mason or EJ for short who you really can’t help but love, she has a great attitude about life and is independent and sweetly vulnerable at the same time. She will definitely have some burning love hurdles to jump over, and hopefully she’ll land the way I hope she does. Although with these two Author’s sneaky writing you never know, they might turn me!
Then you have Kyle Mason, who is EJ’s older brother. Coop, who is Kyle’s best friend as well as lifelong friend of EJ. And then there’s Hayden, who might seem like he’s spoiled and perfect but he’s not and his character grew on me big time. All 3 of these guys will own a piece of your heart after this book, I can promise you that! And then we have Cami, I really loved her. I believe that she will have a bad reputation due to the fact that she’s a spoiled beauty queen, but once you peel the layers back I truly believe she has a lot of good in her. She’s searching for something that I don’t think even she knows the outcome of. And I really can’t wait to see how her character develops throughout this series.
You get to see this story through the eyes of all the characters which I really loved. The writing is really smooth, and the transitions from scene to scene are seamless. Every time one chapter ended I was excited to see where the next chapter would take me. And the journey through these young people’s lives is worth every minute. I found a little piece of myself in every character, which made them all so relatable. I believe that all of us have good and bad in ourselves somewhere, and that’s why this book is so good! You get to see these amazing characters and their entirely different personalities shift and change throughout the story. Some moving forward and others moving backwards, or staying stagnant. Either way, it makes for a great read. There’s some drama near the end that will have you freaking, and gasping, and speculating your brains out! And I really CANNOT wait to see how this story plays out. This series will be amazing if the rest of it is any bit as good as the first and I have no doubts that it will be! C. Quinn & E. Lee did an unreal job!
“Fireworks went off around them as they both fell headfirst in love for the first time ever.”
December 4, 2013
another Caisey Quinn book?
SIGN ME THE FUCK UP
Merged review:
The storm is coming and you don't want to miss this book. Review to come
My Review:
5 "no warning signs will prepare you for this storm" stars
I am a lover of things Young Adult. It's what got me into reading again. I love the innocence in the books, the steamy scenes that make you imagine what is happening but not giving to much away. The love that is shared between the characters, it isn't over the top, it isn't shoved down your throat. Virgin's aren't losing their V-Card to billionaires who want to tie them up and spank them. YA is a genre that leaves you guessing. Storm Warning delivered all of these things.
Now don't get me wrong, I love me some bondage and spanking,(in my books silly, well maybe in real life as well **wink wink**) but it is refreshing to get a book and not having to worry about you daughter sneak reading it behind your back. Yes my 9 1/2 year old read some of this over my shoulder and she kept asking me what was going to happen. It was adorable. I will definitely be buying this in paperback so when she gets a little older she can read it.
Now for my review. Y'all already know how much love I have for Caisey Quinn. If I could, I'd lock her up in my basement and make her write me stories all day long and then I would have her read them to me in her cute little southern voice. I am sick I know.
When I saw the trailer for Storm Warning, I was hooked. I wanted this book, BAD. So, when it showed up in my email I jumped right on it and devoured it. I was BLOWN away. I have never read any of Elizabeth Lee's book, but I am now a fan. I knew it was going to be brilliant because CQ was a co writer, but with EL and CQ together it is magic. Like unicorns running around your front lawn with rainbows shooting out of their ass MAGIC.
Storm Warning has 3 amazing men it. Threw out the whole book, you will be switching teams. I didn't know if I wanted Kyle, Coop or Hayden. They were all so different and did so many swoonworthy things. But in the end I am fully on board with #teamhayden. He is my go to guy in this series. He surprised the hell out of me. I love Hayden and I have claimed him as mine.
We also have 2 pretty cool chicks in the book. I knew the moment I was introduced to Ella Jane that I would be on her team. She is cute, sharp, smart, way to grown up and doesn't let shit get her down. #teamellajane.
There are twists and there are turns and there are OMG what is going to happen moments. My heart was beating, my chest was heaving and my stomach was in knots. There was time near the end, that I want to skip to the end just to see what happens. BUT I DIDN'T and I recommended not doing this. But the end, the end will leave you wanting to hunt down EL and CQ and how them who is boss.
Like every other CQ book, I am left with the biggest book hangover and asking WHHHYYY. I need answers, I need to know what is going to happen. Please oh please let it be spring 2014 when I wake up.
Are you ready for the storm? Because, y'all, it's coming and none of us are safe.
here we go here we go. the storm is a coming
SIGN ME THE FUCK UP
Merged review:
The storm is coming and you don't want to miss this book. Review to come
My Review:
5 "no warning signs will prepare you for this storm" stars
I am a lover of things Young Adult. It's what got me into reading again. I love the innocence in the books, the steamy scenes that make you imagine what is happening but not giving to much away. The love that is shared between the characters, it isn't over the top, it isn't shoved down your throat. Virgin's aren't losing their V-Card to billionaires who want to tie them up and spank them. YA is a genre that leaves you guessing. Storm Warning delivered all of these things.
Now don't get me wrong, I love me some bondage and spanking,(in my books silly, well maybe in real life as well **wink wink**) but it is refreshing to get a book and not having to worry about you daughter sneak reading it behind your back. Yes my 9 1/2 year old read some of this over my shoulder and she kept asking me what was going to happen. It was adorable. I will definitely be buying this in paperback so when she gets a little older she can read it.
Now for my review. Y'all already know how much love I have for Caisey Quinn. If I could, I'd lock her up in my basement and make her write me stories all day long and then I would have her read them to me in her cute little southern voice. I am sick I know.
When I saw the trailer for Storm Warning, I was hooked. I wanted this book, BAD. So, when it showed up in my email I jumped right on it and devoured it. I was BLOWN away. I have never read any of Elizabeth Lee's book, but I am now a fan. I knew it was going to be brilliant because CQ was a co writer, but with EL and CQ together it is magic. Like unicorns running around your front lawn with rainbows shooting out of their ass MAGIC.
Storm Warning has 3 amazing men it. Threw out the whole book, you will be switching teams. I didn't know if I wanted Kyle, Coop or Hayden. They were all so different and did so many swoonworthy things. But in the end I am fully on board with #teamhayden. He is my go to guy in this series. He surprised the hell out of me. I love Hayden and I have claimed him as mine.
We also have 2 pretty cool chicks in the book. I knew the moment I was introduced to Ella Jane that I would be on her team. She is cute, sharp, smart, way to grown up and doesn't let shit get her down. #teamellajane.
There are twists and there are turns and there are OMG what is going to happen moments. My heart was beating, my chest was heaving and my stomach was in knots. There was time near the end, that I want to skip to the end just to see what happens. BUT I DIDN'T and I recommended not doing this. But the end, the end will leave you wanting to hunt down EL and CQ and how them who is boss.
Like every other CQ book, I am left with the biggest book hangover and asking WHHHYYY. I need answers, I need to know what is going to happen. Please oh please let it be spring 2014 when I wake up.
Are you ready for the storm? Because, y'all, it's coming and none of us are safe.
here we go here we go. the storm is a coming
December 12, 2013
**ARC provided from the authors in exchange for an honest review**
Storm Warning is by far one of my favorite YA books ever. E.Lee and C.Quinn are amazing authors separately, but together they are something else! This book blew me away and has me wanting more.
Storm Warning follows five main characters: Kyle, Ella Jane (aka EJ), Coop,Hayden, and Cami. Kyle and EJ are siblings, Coop is Kyle's best friend and Hayden and Cami are new to the bunch so to speak.
Five is a lot of different heads to be in, but it was done so well that it won't even bother you to switch back and forth. I love how it gave me the chance to really get to know each one of the characters. Almost to the point of knowing what was going through their minds even when we weren't in them.
Storm Warning touches on so many different aspects of being a teenager. You have Kyle who is getting to ready to head off to college, EJ who is looking forward to something changing this summer for her, she has a crush on Coop.. Who it turns out has a thing for her as well..
That's Kyle's little sister, man. Remember, your best friend? The one who'd kick your ass if he knew what was running through your mind right now? Oh yeah. Him.
As I am sure you are wondering since there is 2 girls and 3 boys, yes there is a somewhat triangle. But it works. It is not your typical over the top, full of angst, love triangle. It is real. Something that reminds you of being a teenager again. Have you ever wanted someone you can't have? Ever been afraid to let someone know how you feel? If so then you can relate. But this book is about more than that though.
In Storm Warning you see each and everyone of the characters grow. They are all trying to figure out who they are and some learn there is more to them than they originally thought. Cami and Hayden are from the other side of town, it might as well be a different country. Whereas Kyle,EJ, and Coop work for what they have, Cami and Hayden don't. But there is more behind the two of them. Cami isn't just some spoiled girl, while I will admit at first I wasn't a huge fan but I am sure she will continue to grow on me. Hayden.. well Hayden I didn't want to love him, but man I do. Once you get to know him you can not help but fall in love. EJ is probably my favorite character. With Hayden and Coop tied for second place. Those two boys make it hard to pick a team. I was TEAM Coop all the way before I read,but then I met Hayden.. All I can say is I love them both and it is so hard to pick because I feel like I am betraying the other when I pick one. They both are so great.
All it takes is one summer and everything changes. Lives are changed forever, fall in love, find yourself, and watch out for the storm. Storm Warning is not to be missed! I could not put this book down. I had to know what was going to happen next with each and every character. I am on pins and needles waiting for the next book. I don't re-read a lot of books but this one is one that will always be a re-read for me! It is that good!
Storm Warning is by far one of my favorite YA books ever. E.Lee and C.Quinn are amazing authors separately, but together they are something else! This book blew me away and has me wanting more.
Storm Warning follows five main characters: Kyle, Ella Jane (aka EJ), Coop,Hayden, and Cami. Kyle and EJ are siblings, Coop is Kyle's best friend and Hayden and Cami are new to the bunch so to speak.
Five is a lot of different heads to be in, but it was done so well that it won't even bother you to switch back and forth. I love how it gave me the chance to really get to know each one of the characters. Almost to the point of knowing what was going through their minds even when we weren't in them.
Storm Warning touches on so many different aspects of being a teenager. You have Kyle who is getting to ready to head off to college, EJ who is looking forward to something changing this summer for her, she has a crush on Coop.. Who it turns out has a thing for her as well..
That's Kyle's little sister, man. Remember, your best friend? The one who'd kick your ass if he knew what was running through your mind right now? Oh yeah. Him.
As I am sure you are wondering since there is 2 girls and 3 boys, yes there is a somewhat triangle. But it works. It is not your typical over the top, full of angst, love triangle. It is real. Something that reminds you of being a teenager again. Have you ever wanted someone you can't have? Ever been afraid to let someone know how you feel? If so then you can relate. But this book is about more than that though.
In Storm Warning you see each and everyone of the characters grow. They are all trying to figure out who they are and some learn there is more to them than they originally thought. Cami and Hayden are from the other side of town, it might as well be a different country. Whereas Kyle,EJ, and Coop work for what they have, Cami and Hayden don't. But there is more behind the two of them. Cami isn't just some spoiled girl, while I will admit at first I wasn't a huge fan but I am sure she will continue to grow on me. Hayden.. well Hayden I didn't want to love him, but man I do. Once you get to know him you can not help but fall in love. EJ is probably my favorite character. With Hayden and Coop tied for second place. Those two boys make it hard to pick a team. I was TEAM Coop all the way before I read,but then I met Hayden.. All I can say is I love them both and it is so hard to pick because I feel like I am betraying the other when I pick one. They both are so great.
All it takes is one summer and everything changes. Lives are changed forever, fall in love, find yourself, and watch out for the storm. Storm Warning is not to be missed! I could not put this book down. I had to know what was going to happen next with each and every character. I am on pins and needles waiting for the next book. I don't re-read a lot of books but this one is one that will always be a re-read for me! It is that good!
Read
December 4, 2013So excited for everyone to read this one!
December 12, 2013
When you think back on high school, you may grunt, groan and eye roll, but you also sigh, giggle reminiscing the crushes, hand holding, first kiss, exploring the bases (1st possibly all the way to home) etc. When you read Storm Warning, you as a reader are thrown back in high school. As these characters experience first loves, insecurities of dating/expressing feelings, embracing adult hood you find yourself in a constant mode of reflection as become absorbed in these characters’ journey. The story revolves about five main characters—Kyle, Ella Jane (EJ), Coop, Cami and Hayden. We get all five POVs, confusing? Not one bit! The flow of each of their stories meshes perfectly together, you never lose track of who is recanting their side of the story.
So have you done the math yet, 3 boys and 2 girls, did love triangle come to anyone’s mind? There is definitely one lucky girl who has two good looking, sweet talking, hard working men to choose from. That girl would be EJ, Kyle’s baby sister, the youngest of the characters by a year at 16yrs old. Did you ever harbor a crush on a sibling’s friend or your best friend’s sibling? Do you remember the butterflies you’d feel in your stomach at the hopes he’d look at you more than a friend? Coop has been best friends with Kyle since they were kids. Naturally since EJ and Kyle are close she’d always tag along with them two. Growing from children to teenagers, both their feelings began to change. Yet, the Best Friend Code (yes that applies to both girls and guys) flashed warning signs in Coop’s mind. Could he betray his best friend by going after his baby sister? On the other hand, how much longer could EJ pine after a boy who refused to see her as anything other than family, than a sister?
Cue Summer Break! For all five characters this summer didn’t start off full of fun, sun, and carefree plans, it represented a summer of change, obligations, and challenging oneself to new people, surroundings, and experiences.
Similarly as Kyle, EJ, and Coop grew up around each one other, the same goes for Cami and Hayden. They are from the riches and spoiled side of the tracks; raised entirely different from the three from the small “forgotten town” of Hopes Groves. In one summer all of these characters’ lives cross paths and the aftermath will completely change all the course of their summers.
Each of these characters have their own personalities that will suck you in and have you rooting for each of them to get a HEA. EJ may be the youngest but she is the girl that you’d want to be BFF with in high school. She is wise beyond her years, a hopeless romantic with the biggest heart, and loves with all she has. Cami on the other hand, is the “it girl” that you may have either envied or disliked in high school, yet while she comes off fake her inner monologue you get to read reveals the honesty she has with herself over not liking the girl she is; the girl her parents have molded/expect.
Whew, what team to choose in regards to the boys Team Kyle, Team Coop, or Team Hayden? All three of these guys will lure you in, will get your butterflies fluttering, and will make you want to slap them upside the head a couple times…well expect for Kyle *sighs* From the opening prologue, which is told in Kyle POV, I was a shewin for Team Kyle and still hold the pom poms cheering in on! He is a southern gentleman, a protective brother, loving son, and damn if his confident self with his dimple grin doesn’t make you swoon.
On the other hand, you cannot root for both Coop and Hayden. Damn if EJ doesn’t have her hands full and by golly if I don’t want to trade places with her or heck help her by taking one of the guys for myself! Two men driven by opposite motivations, Hayden wants to feel worthy whereas Coop is all about his family while also with the dream of making something more of himself than a farmer. One from a life of privilege yet not defined by his stereotype and the other works hard for everything he has who puts respect and loyalty for others above his wants.
Fireworks go off in both a literal and figurative sense. The chemistry between these couples is endearing, heart breaking yet heart fluttering, and so realistic it will bring a smile that lights up yourself just as it ignites memory lane for yourself.
But true to the nature of maturing, the road and experiences are not always easy. Storms tend to approach.
E.Lee and C. Quinn do an unbelievable job with the progression of this story. While the storyline only takes place over the course of a summer, as we recall in high school feelings are intensified, time is irrelevant your thoughts are completely consumed by the boy you are crushing on or dating. The depiction of first loves and letting go of one’s innocence is so beautifully and tastefully done your heart can’t help but swell to the brink as you gush with the with characters.
As the summer comes to a close, more than the status of the couples’ relationships will be put into question.
Holy Dynamic Duo of Collaborations E.Lee and C.Quinn are geniuses, cruel cruel geniuses! You will be so absorbed in this story that you won’t notice the ending approaching. BUT when it hits you, you will be ready to yell “NOOOOOO!” Till the very end emotions will wash over you’ll feel the sunshine, clouds, rain, crackle of lighting + thunder.
*I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review*
So have you done the math yet, 3 boys and 2 girls, did love triangle come to anyone’s mind? There is definitely one lucky girl who has two good looking, sweet talking, hard working men to choose from. That girl would be EJ, Kyle’s baby sister, the youngest of the characters by a year at 16yrs old. Did you ever harbor a crush on a sibling’s friend or your best friend’s sibling? Do you remember the butterflies you’d feel in your stomach at the hopes he’d look at you more than a friend? Coop has been best friends with Kyle since they were kids. Naturally since EJ and Kyle are close she’d always tag along with them two. Growing from children to teenagers, both their feelings began to change. Yet, the Best Friend Code (yes that applies to both girls and guys) flashed warning signs in Coop’s mind. Could he betray his best friend by going after his baby sister? On the other hand, how much longer could EJ pine after a boy who refused to see her as anything other than family, than a sister?
Cue Summer Break! For all five characters this summer didn’t start off full of fun, sun, and carefree plans, it represented a summer of change, obligations, and challenging oneself to new people, surroundings, and experiences.
Similarly as Kyle, EJ, and Coop grew up around each one other, the same goes for Cami and Hayden. They are from the riches and spoiled side of the tracks; raised entirely different from the three from the small “forgotten town” of Hopes Groves. In one summer all of these characters’ lives cross paths and the aftermath will completely change all the course of their summers.
Each of these characters have their own personalities that will suck you in and have you rooting for each of them to get a HEA. EJ may be the youngest but she is the girl that you’d want to be BFF with in high school. She is wise beyond her years, a hopeless romantic with the biggest heart, and loves with all she has. Cami on the other hand, is the “it girl” that you may have either envied or disliked in high school, yet while she comes off fake her inner monologue you get to read reveals the honesty she has with herself over not liking the girl she is; the girl her parents have molded/expect.
Whew, what team to choose in regards to the boys Team Kyle, Team Coop, or Team Hayden? All three of these guys will lure you in, will get your butterflies fluttering, and will make you want to slap them upside the head a couple times…well expect for Kyle *sighs* From the opening prologue, which is told in Kyle POV, I was a shewin for Team Kyle and still hold the pom poms cheering in on! He is a southern gentleman, a protective brother, loving son, and damn if his confident self with his dimple grin doesn’t make you swoon.
On the other hand, you cannot root for both Coop and Hayden. Damn if EJ doesn’t have her hands full and by golly if I don’t want to trade places with her or heck help her by taking one of the guys for myself! Two men driven by opposite motivations, Hayden wants to feel worthy whereas Coop is all about his family while also with the dream of making something more of himself than a farmer. One from a life of privilege yet not defined by his stereotype and the other works hard for everything he has who puts respect and loyalty for others above his wants.
Fireworks go off in both a literal and figurative sense. The chemistry between these couples is endearing, heart breaking yet heart fluttering, and so realistic it will bring a smile that lights up yourself just as it ignites memory lane for yourself.
But true to the nature of maturing, the road and experiences are not always easy. Storms tend to approach.
E.Lee and C. Quinn do an unbelievable job with the progression of this story. While the storyline only takes place over the course of a summer, as we recall in high school feelings are intensified, time is irrelevant your thoughts are completely consumed by the boy you are crushing on or dating. The depiction of first loves and letting go of one’s innocence is so beautifully and tastefully done your heart can’t help but swell to the brink as you gush with the with characters.
As the summer comes to a close, more than the status of the couples’ relationships will be put into question.
Holy Dynamic Duo of Collaborations E.Lee and C.Quinn are geniuses, cruel cruel geniuses! You will be so absorbed in this story that you won’t notice the ending approaching. BUT when it hits you, you will be ready to yell “NOOOOOO!” Till the very end emotions will wash over you’ll feel the sunshine, clouds, rain, crackle of lighting + thunder.
*I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review*
Want to read
November 8, 2013New YA Romance
Broken Heartland Website
Broken Heartland Website
December 11, 2014
4.5 Stars
Wow! Is all I can say about that ending. I think my heart is still stuck in my throat. Now that was a true cliffhanger. I'm so glad I have book 2 right now or I would be going flipping crazy. When I first started Strom Warning I didn't think I was really going to like it because it was told in four different point of views, I thought it might get confusing. It didn't and I actually really liked the story. By the end of the book I loved all the characters even Hayden, he had grown on me a lot. I have to start Path of Destruction now, I need to know what is going to happen.
Wow! Is all I can say about that ending. I think my heart is still stuck in my throat. Now that was a true cliffhanger. I'm so glad I have book 2 right now or I would be going flipping crazy. When I first started Strom Warning I didn't think I was really going to like it because it was told in four different point of views, I thought it might get confusing. It didn't and I actually really liked the story. By the end of the book I loved all the characters even Hayden, he had grown on me a lot. I have to start Path of Destruction now, I need to know what is going to happen.
December 12, 2013
THIS BOOK LITERALLY BLEW ME AWAY!
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Storm Warning, I think about a month ago, and cannot stop thinking about it.
I’m not going to lie I am very picky with characters that I like in books and sometimes I don’t like them at first but will love them in the end. However, with Storm Warning I loved all of the 5 main characters with a fierceness that I didn’t even know I had. Even though I could relate more with some characters than others I still found something in all of them that made me love them and root for them in the end, and oh Lord what an ending it was.
This is a YA series so even though there are couples coupling, we see them forming stemming from the simplest love there is, friendship and blossoming into what they become. I think that is what I liked most about the character’s relationships, they weren’t just instant love or the “You’re hot. I’m a bad person but I’ll try to be good for you. Let’s be a couple.” I’m not saying other books character’s don’t have depth but these characters are complex and share emotions that everyone has felt at one point or another.
Kyle and Cami’s relationship could not have been any sweeter. We really see the love grow between them and how right they are for each other. Even though they are from two different worlds they understand each other and become better people because the other’s in their life.
The next couple, it took me a little bit more to warm up to, Hayden and EJ, especially since EJ was so in love with Cooper (his real name is Branetly Cooper but all his friends call him Cooper or Coop) in the beginning. We also see Hayden and EJ’s relationship start from friendship, or non-friendship into something more. At first EJ could not stand Hayden, thinking he was a ‘pretty boy’ from the bluffs but she (and us) see another side to Hayden that has her (and us again) swooning for him.
Which leaves the last point of that love triangle, Coop. I love all the characters but Coop tops them all. He is the country boy that any girl would love to call theirs. He is in love with his best friend’s sister though and that leads to the heartbreak that even I felt. EJ and Coop walk around with an elephant behind them because everyone knows that they are going to end up married but because he doesn’t ‘man-up’ in time to tell Kyle or even EJ how he feels, Hayden swoops in and falls in love with EJ as well. Only with Hayden he let his feelings be known and she reciprocated those feelings. But that leaves Coop wanting throw his hat in the ring because he still loves EJ but took wise advice and walked away to let her be happy. I REALLY, REALLY want to see Coop’s HEA whether it be with EJ or some other girl (let’s just say her name is Marie ;)), he needs his other half.
These main characters blow you away with their lives but some of the supporting characters add to the mcs’ lives. Hayden’s grandparents, ugh I want his grandparents, are so sweet and loving. I think that they are what help Hayden see the life he was living isn’t necessarily the life that he wants or even should be living.
Kyle and EJ’s mom is such a crack up; she is where EJ got her spit-fire comebacks from. Although their mom is dealing with her own issues, she always shows her kids that she is strong and shows them the affection that all kids want.
This last character I wasn’t too impressed with at all, EJ’s best friend, Lynlee. I tried to like her I really did but I couldn’t she just seemed more of a frenemy than the best friend that EJ deserves.
So now to the ending of all endings. I am not lying when I say the ending is what gave me the most major book hangover I have ever had. It literally left me speechless with a Taylor Swift shocked face. This ending is the biggest TWIST in the story that no one will see coming. I know I sure in the heck didn’t.
So after I calmed my T-Swift shocked face, we get to the Epilogue and let me just leave you with this, the Macaulay Culkin’s “I’m scared outta my mind” face (the cover to the movie, Home Alone).
You will not stop thinking about the Epilogue and where they are going with book 2. I have some ideas but getting the authors to talk is like getting through a brick wall with only your bare hands, impossible. No matter what you do or say, like ‘Hey, I’ll name my first child after you for some info on SW2’, they don’t budge, it’s like they are some guards for Buckingham Palace. Haha! Okay maybe I am exaggerating a little but that is how it feels.
But honestly, I think the world of these two authors that have put their heart and soul into this story and book.
Aside from being Fort Knox with information about book 2, Elizabeth Lee and Caisey Quinn are absolutely brilliant on their own but they shine extra bright together. Sometimes, when two authors collaborate on a book I can tell who wrote which parts but with Storm Warning I couldn’t tell. The story flowed smoothly and the writing painted the scenes that bring you into the town of Hope’s Grove and into the lives of these five teenagers whose lives change after one summer.
I recommend this book because not only does it blow you away it gives you that feeling of being a teenager again and having new adventures, learning from your mistakes and falling in love for the first time.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Storm Warning, I think about a month ago, and cannot stop thinking about it.
I’m not going to lie I am very picky with characters that I like in books and sometimes I don’t like them at first but will love them in the end. However, with Storm Warning I loved all of the 5 main characters with a fierceness that I didn’t even know I had. Even though I could relate more with some characters than others I still found something in all of them that made me love them and root for them in the end, and oh Lord what an ending it was.
This is a YA series so even though there are couples coupling, we see them forming stemming from the simplest love there is, friendship and blossoming into what they become. I think that is what I liked most about the character’s relationships, they weren’t just instant love or the “You’re hot. I’m a bad person but I’ll try to be good for you. Let’s be a couple.” I’m not saying other books character’s don’t have depth but these characters are complex and share emotions that everyone has felt at one point or another.
Kyle and Cami’s relationship could not have been any sweeter. We really see the love grow between them and how right they are for each other. Even though they are from two different worlds they understand each other and become better people because the other’s in their life.
The next couple, it took me a little bit more to warm up to, Hayden and EJ, especially since EJ was so in love with Cooper (his real name is Branetly Cooper but all his friends call him Cooper or Coop) in the beginning. We also see Hayden and EJ’s relationship start from friendship, or non-friendship into something more. At first EJ could not stand Hayden, thinking he was a ‘pretty boy’ from the bluffs but she (and us) see another side to Hayden that has her (and us again) swooning for him.
Which leaves the last point of that love triangle, Coop. I love all the characters but Coop tops them all. He is the country boy that any girl would love to call theirs. He is in love with his best friend’s sister though and that leads to the heartbreak that even I felt. EJ and Coop walk around with an elephant behind them because everyone knows that they are going to end up married but because he doesn’t ‘man-up’ in time to tell Kyle or even EJ how he feels, Hayden swoops in and falls in love with EJ as well. Only with Hayden he let his feelings be known and she reciprocated those feelings. But that leaves Coop wanting throw his hat in the ring because he still loves EJ but took wise advice and walked away to let her be happy. I REALLY, REALLY want to see Coop’s HEA whether it be with EJ or some other girl (let’s just say her name is Marie ;)), he needs his other half.
These main characters blow you away with their lives but some of the supporting characters add to the mcs’ lives. Hayden’s grandparents, ugh I want his grandparents, are so sweet and loving. I think that they are what help Hayden see the life he was living isn’t necessarily the life that he wants or even should be living.
Kyle and EJ’s mom is such a crack up; she is where EJ got her spit-fire comebacks from. Although their mom is dealing with her own issues, she always shows her kids that she is strong and shows them the affection that all kids want.
This last character I wasn’t too impressed with at all, EJ’s best friend, Lynlee. I tried to like her I really did but I couldn’t she just seemed more of a frenemy than the best friend that EJ deserves.
So now to the ending of all endings. I am not lying when I say the ending is what gave me the most major book hangover I have ever had. It literally left me speechless with a Taylor Swift shocked face. This ending is the biggest TWIST in the story that no one will see coming. I know I sure in the heck didn’t.
So after I calmed my T-Swift shocked face, we get to the Epilogue and let me just leave you with this, the Macaulay Culkin’s “I’m scared outta my mind” face (the cover to the movie, Home Alone).
You will not stop thinking about the Epilogue and where they are going with book 2. I have some ideas but getting the authors to talk is like getting through a brick wall with only your bare hands, impossible. No matter what you do or say, like ‘Hey, I’ll name my first child after you for some info on SW2’, they don’t budge, it’s like they are some guards for Buckingham Palace. Haha! Okay maybe I am exaggerating a little but that is how it feels.
But honestly, I think the world of these two authors that have put their heart and soul into this story and book.
Aside from being Fort Knox with information about book 2, Elizabeth Lee and Caisey Quinn are absolutely brilliant on their own but they shine extra bright together. Sometimes, when two authors collaborate on a book I can tell who wrote which parts but with Storm Warning I couldn’t tell. The story flowed smoothly and the writing painted the scenes that bring you into the town of Hope’s Grove and into the lives of these five teenagers whose lives change after one summer.
I recommend this book because not only does it blow you away it gives you that feeling of being a teenager again and having new adventures, learning from your mistakes and falling in love for the first time.
December 6, 2013
4.5 Tackle Hug Stars
Holy Thunderstorms and Tornados. This book is like being in the middle of a big ol' twister. You are flung...and I mean Flung. Hard. from one side to the next. I changed who I wanted to be the "one" more often than leads in a NASCAR race. Serious Character Whiplash. And there are so many characters. The big problem with the number of characters...it's an odd number. An odd number. Do you know that means....someone is going to get left alone. Like Macaulay Culkin ALONE. I'll prove it. Count the characters.
Ella Jane(#1) and Kyle(#2) are brother and sister. He is headed to summer football camp at OSU. That's Oklahoma State for those of you not in the Big 12. Ella Jane is stuck home this summer helping her mom take care of their family landscape and lawn care business and being ignored by Coop. Coop(#3)is Kyle's best friend and the object of EJ's infatuation for years. But he is off limits since he is her brother's BF. He must see her as a little sister. Right?
He'd found the one all right. He's spent his entire life getting to know her. He just couldn't have her.
Hayden's(#4) parents are sick of dealing with him so they send him to live with his grandparents this summer. He will be working for a family close by that needs some help since their son is at football camp. See what's coming here???
Little Miss Muffet sat on her tuffet...along came a spider and sat down beside her...He's not a wolf and he's not a spider, she told herself. He's just a guy.
Hayden's pseudo-girlfriend, Cami (#5) is stuck home for the summer. I mean stuck. She has lied to everyone she knows to avoid being seen this summer. Not that she is hard to look at, its just that she is supposed to be on vacation. And she is not. So the hiding. But someone has to mow the lawn....Enter the Lawn Care Service.
Let's just stop right there. This is like a giant character version of SpiroGraph. Remember SpiroGraph? All those intersecting circles. I loved that toy/art/pre-Photoshop graphics generator. This is that in book form.
And the lines they do overlap and intersect. There are many hook-ups, train-watching, fist-fights, pie-making, sun-bathing, lawn-cutting, yogurt-dropping moments. Not to mention first kisses, first loves, first heartbreaks. How can there not be....there is an ODD number.
But if he'd learned anything growing up in Oklahoma, it was that sometimes it didn't matter how many warnings you had. Sometimes you still couldn't see the storm coming until it was too late.
So get ready people. The Storm. Is. Coming. You will be caught up in it, I promise. So get your flashlight and hunker down in the basement, or just in your favorite reading spot, cause you will not want the Storm to stop. Even when you get to THE END. You will not want it to end. And good news/bad news. It doesn't. There is another one coming. Just not fast enough.
Holy Thunderstorms and Tornados. This book is like being in the middle of a big ol' twister. You are flung...and I mean Flung. Hard. from one side to the next. I changed who I wanted to be the "one" more often than leads in a NASCAR race. Serious Character Whiplash. And there are so many characters. The big problem with the number of characters...it's an odd number. An odd number. Do you know that means....someone is going to get left alone. Like Macaulay Culkin ALONE. I'll prove it. Count the characters.
Ella Jane(#1) and Kyle(#2) are brother and sister. He is headed to summer football camp at OSU. That's Oklahoma State for those of you not in the Big 12. Ella Jane is stuck home this summer helping her mom take care of their family landscape and lawn care business and being ignored by Coop. Coop(#3)is Kyle's best friend and the object of EJ's infatuation for years. But he is off limits since he is her brother's BF. He must see her as a little sister. Right?
He'd found the one all right. He's spent his entire life getting to know her. He just couldn't have her.
Hayden's(#4) parents are sick of dealing with him so they send him to live with his grandparents this summer. He will be working for a family close by that needs some help since their son is at football camp. See what's coming here???
Little Miss Muffet sat on her tuffet...along came a spider and sat down beside her...He's not a wolf and he's not a spider, she told herself. He's just a guy.
Hayden's pseudo-girlfriend, Cami (#5) is stuck home for the summer. I mean stuck. She has lied to everyone she knows to avoid being seen this summer. Not that she is hard to look at, its just that she is supposed to be on vacation. And she is not. So the hiding. But someone has to mow the lawn....Enter the Lawn Care Service.
Let's just stop right there. This is like a giant character version of SpiroGraph. Remember SpiroGraph? All those intersecting circles. I loved that toy/art/pre-Photoshop graphics generator. This is that in book form.
And the lines they do overlap and intersect. There are many hook-ups, train-watching, fist-fights, pie-making, sun-bathing, lawn-cutting, yogurt-dropping moments. Not to mention first kisses, first loves, first heartbreaks. How can there not be....there is an ODD number.
But if he'd learned anything growing up in Oklahoma, it was that sometimes it didn't matter how many warnings you had. Sometimes you still couldn't see the storm coming until it was too late.
So get ready people. The Storm. Is. Coming. You will be caught up in it, I promise. So get your flashlight and hunker down in the basement, or just in your favorite reading spot, cause you will not want the Storm to stop. Even when you get to THE END. You will not want it to end. And good news/bad news. It doesn't. There is another one coming. Just not fast enough.
March 25, 2014
OMG OMG OMG
I freaking loved this book... Words can not explain how much I fell head over heels for these fabulous teenagers in Storm Warning. It took me back to my teenage years, like I was watching one of my favorite girly CW shows, the Gilmore Girls was my favorite. My heart was instantly in love with the country boys Coop & Kyle, then their is Hayden, the city boy who comes into town & throws their country living into a whirl wind. Well he pretty much makes this summer a living Hell for Cooper who is secretly in love with EJ. EJ, love this chick, is Kyle's little sister, who I could totally relate to. She is sweet, caring, and where's her heart on her sleeve and a little fire cracker too. Then theirs Cami, a snotty, rich girl, who has EVERYTHING (so you think) but there were many layers under neath that fake skin of hers. Throughout the book, her true colors shine through and the real Cami shines bright. I like the real Cami at the end of the book, kind of feel sorry for her too.
This story takes place out in the country, where five teenagers lives are changed forever. Love, fun, lose, change, hurt, pain & a summer to NEVER FORGET. You follow each character all summer finding out some pretty amazing things about each one. You might like some characters better than others, but they all start to make some impressive changes & develop right in front of you. This book was a complete train wreck towards the end for me, because it has a cliff hanger & HUGE HAPPENING towards the end. E. Lee & C. Quinn sure know what they are doing to keep us enthralled in a book, because to be honest, I read this book weeks ago and I can't stop thinking about it. I will be patiently waiting for book 2. A must read for ALL!!! The younger crowd will really enjoy this book of summer love & lose!!!
~Keelie
(Read This ~ Hear That)
I freaking loved this book... Words can not explain how much I fell head over heels for these fabulous teenagers in Storm Warning. It took me back to my teenage years, like I was watching one of my favorite girly CW shows, the Gilmore Girls was my favorite. My heart was instantly in love with the country boys Coop & Kyle, then their is Hayden, the city boy who comes into town & throws their country living into a whirl wind. Well he pretty much makes this summer a living Hell for Cooper who is secretly in love with EJ. EJ, love this chick, is Kyle's little sister, who I could totally relate to. She is sweet, caring, and where's her heart on her sleeve and a little fire cracker too. Then theirs Cami, a snotty, rich girl, who has EVERYTHING (so you think) but there were many layers under neath that fake skin of hers. Throughout the book, her true colors shine through and the real Cami shines bright. I like the real Cami at the end of the book, kind of feel sorry for her too.
This story takes place out in the country, where five teenagers lives are changed forever. Love, fun, lose, change, hurt, pain & a summer to NEVER FORGET. You follow each character all summer finding out some pretty amazing things about each one. You might like some characters better than others, but they all start to make some impressive changes & develop right in front of you. This book was a complete train wreck towards the end for me, because it has a cliff hanger & HUGE HAPPENING towards the end. E. Lee & C. Quinn sure know what they are doing to keep us enthralled in a book, because to be honest, I read this book weeks ago and I can't stop thinking about it. I will be patiently waiting for book 2. A must read for ALL!!! The younger crowd will really enjoy this book of summer love & lose!!!
~Keelie
(Read This ~ Hear That)
February 14, 2014
*****5-Swept-away by a tornado-Stars*****
WARNING: Take cover immediately – storms are rolling across the prairies of Oklahoma! As lives hang in the balance when they come face-to-face with a path of destruction, who will remain standing after it has all been “blown away.”
This expertly co-written story by two talented authors pretty much surpassed anything in the YA genre I’ve read to date. I’ve read their solo books and enjoyed them. Caisey Quinn’s books were my very best reading surprise of 2013 – and I’ve now read everything she’s written. I hung on to each and every word and felt every emotion as if they were my very own in her latest whirlwind collaboration with Elizabeth Lee. Whether the concept for this story took flight from Carrie Underwood’s award-winning country chart topper or not, “Storm Warning” claims your attention in a refreshingly impressive way.
I’m from Oklahoma – right in the center of Tornado Alley so I know what they’re talking about when storm warnings are issued. You believe what the weathermen tell you and you take cover immediately and pray with all your might that big blackish-green cloud overhead doesn’t set its eye on you and yours. Readers will be chilled and thrilled with how realistic and believable this story is portrayed and just how it feels to be in the center of something so scary and life-threatening. It’s there before your eyes on these pages and then there’s nothing . . . zero – wait just a second – where’s the rest of the story? I’ve never had a cliffhanger send me into such a level of panic mode. When is the next installment of this perfectly imperfect book due? What happened to my five new best friends? After searching fast and furiously, I find that it’s scheduled for release “Spring 2014” – what the heck does that mean? You can’t send me over the cliff hanging between life and death. Well, Quinn and Lee did it and did it amazingly well. So well in fact, that this reader will be hiding in her storm shelter on pins and needles until the next twister passes. The weather service hints that release dates for the next storms will arrive no more than three months apart – we’ll see if this holds true as no definite dates have officially been announced.
Even though early warning signs appear of stormy skies ahead, there is so much more blowing in the wind for five young adults whose lives are about to change in a variety of different ways. The use of the five individual POVs is creative genius in this particular instance. Together the writing duo made up of Quinn and Lee has articulated every point in each character’s unique personality, along with their thoughts and dialogue with precision. This culminates into a captivating and rewarding adventure in reading.
We are introduced to Kyle Mason, the hunky hometown football star who is moving onto the college level playing field as he begins his first year at Oklahoma State University. Kyle is overprotective of his little sister, and loyal and hardworking to assure that the family business stays intact after his father walks out on his mother. Kyle’s character was the least developed in my view. If he survives, I’m hopeful that we’ll get a deeper look into his character.
Brantley “Coop” Cooper is Kyle’s lifelong best friend and a senior in high school. Coop is the epitome of a hard-working country guy, who is loyal to both family and friends. Although he won’t admit it to anyone but himself, he secretly holds strong feelings for his best friend’s younger sister. There’s just something about a sweet-hearted country heartthrob that steals my heart and Coop did indeed.
Ella Jane Mason, who is a junior in high-school and never leaves home without her cowboy boots, is Kyle’s beautiful and sparkling younger sister. She is full of spit and sass and smart as a whip. She works hard for Mason Landscaping and to support her mother in trying times. And she’s got her heart set on her brother’s best friend.
Hayden Tanner Prescott, a high-school Senior from a wealthy family with GQ good looks and a side of arrogance, has been sent to his grandparent’s farm to work for the summer. On the surface it appears to be punishment for his wayward ways and a lesson in reality. Watching the changes and growth in Hayden’s character development throughout the story were also among my favorite moments. FYI, Hayden drives a Bentley (although it is wrecked and being repaired throughout the story) and loves his pitbull named Atticus.
And finally, there’s Cameron “Cami” Nickelson. At first glimpse, she resembled a mini-Kim Kardashian and I immediately thought, Ugh! Cami has family issues brought on by the lack of attention from her parents. But the girl has spark and she’s definitely no dummy. She carries some real issues in her Louis Vuitton luggage for sure. Let’s just say, it’s complicated.
Yes, it’s YA genre and may not be every reader’s cuppa, and certainly ends with a sucker punch to the gut via one doozy of a cliffhanger. But I’m here to declare that this book rumbles with a thrilling combination of secrets, love triangles that pack some surprises of their own, gripping heartbreak and emotional trauma, along with plain old down home laugh-out-loud summer fun -- and readers are promised a front and center seat as it all plays out.
The experiences I had from reading this beautifully well-written story created such a soul-deep reaction that I feel like shouting from the roof-top that never will I forget this book – because it became so life-like to me. You can definitely find me in the loyal fan category for these two amazing authors.
One final word to the wise reader who shops for a genuine bargain: “Storm Warning” is the Real McCoy and available on Amazon.com for a steal at the price of 99-cents.
WARNING: Take cover immediately – storms are rolling across the prairies of Oklahoma! As lives hang in the balance when they come face-to-face with a path of destruction, who will remain standing after it has all been “blown away.”
This expertly co-written story by two talented authors pretty much surpassed anything in the YA genre I’ve read to date. I’ve read their solo books and enjoyed them. Caisey Quinn’s books were my very best reading surprise of 2013 – and I’ve now read everything she’s written. I hung on to each and every word and felt every emotion as if they were my very own in her latest whirlwind collaboration with Elizabeth Lee. Whether the concept for this story took flight from Carrie Underwood’s award-winning country chart topper or not, “Storm Warning” claims your attention in a refreshingly impressive way.
I’m from Oklahoma – right in the center of Tornado Alley so I know what they’re talking about when storm warnings are issued. You believe what the weathermen tell you and you take cover immediately and pray with all your might that big blackish-green cloud overhead doesn’t set its eye on you and yours. Readers will be chilled and thrilled with how realistic and believable this story is portrayed and just how it feels to be in the center of something so scary and life-threatening. It’s there before your eyes on these pages and then there’s nothing . . . zero – wait just a second – where’s the rest of the story? I’ve never had a cliffhanger send me into such a level of panic mode. When is the next installment of this perfectly imperfect book due? What happened to my five new best friends? After searching fast and furiously, I find that it’s scheduled for release “Spring 2014” – what the heck does that mean? You can’t send me over the cliff hanging between life and death. Well, Quinn and Lee did it and did it amazingly well. So well in fact, that this reader will be hiding in her storm shelter on pins and needles until the next twister passes. The weather service hints that release dates for the next storms will arrive no more than three months apart – we’ll see if this holds true as no definite dates have officially been announced.
Even though early warning signs appear of stormy skies ahead, there is so much more blowing in the wind for five young adults whose lives are about to change in a variety of different ways. The use of the five individual POVs is creative genius in this particular instance. Together the writing duo made up of Quinn and Lee has articulated every point in each character’s unique personality, along with their thoughts and dialogue with precision. This culminates into a captivating and rewarding adventure in reading.
We are introduced to Kyle Mason, the hunky hometown football star who is moving onto the college level playing field as he begins his first year at Oklahoma State University. Kyle is overprotective of his little sister, and loyal and hardworking to assure that the family business stays intact after his father walks out on his mother. Kyle’s character was the least developed in my view. If he survives, I’m hopeful that we’ll get a deeper look into his character.
Brantley “Coop” Cooper is Kyle’s lifelong best friend and a senior in high school. Coop is the epitome of a hard-working country guy, who is loyal to both family and friends. Although he won’t admit it to anyone but himself, he secretly holds strong feelings for his best friend’s younger sister. There’s just something about a sweet-hearted country heartthrob that steals my heart and Coop did indeed.
Ella Jane Mason, who is a junior in high-school and never leaves home without her cowboy boots, is Kyle’s beautiful and sparkling younger sister. She is full of spit and sass and smart as a whip. She works hard for Mason Landscaping and to support her mother in trying times. And she’s got her heart set on her brother’s best friend.
Hayden Tanner Prescott, a high-school Senior from a wealthy family with GQ good looks and a side of arrogance, has been sent to his grandparent’s farm to work for the summer. On the surface it appears to be punishment for his wayward ways and a lesson in reality. Watching the changes and growth in Hayden’s character development throughout the story were also among my favorite moments. FYI, Hayden drives a Bentley (although it is wrecked and being repaired throughout the story) and loves his pitbull named Atticus.
And finally, there’s Cameron “Cami” Nickelson. At first glimpse, she resembled a mini-Kim Kardashian and I immediately thought, Ugh! Cami has family issues brought on by the lack of attention from her parents. But the girl has spark and she’s definitely no dummy. She carries some real issues in her Louis Vuitton luggage for sure. Let’s just say, it’s complicated.
Yes, it’s YA genre and may not be every reader’s cuppa, and certainly ends with a sucker punch to the gut via one doozy of a cliffhanger. But I’m here to declare that this book rumbles with a thrilling combination of secrets, love triangles that pack some surprises of their own, gripping heartbreak and emotional trauma, along with plain old down home laugh-out-loud summer fun -- and readers are promised a front and center seat as it all plays out.
The experiences I had from reading this beautifully well-written story created such a soul-deep reaction that I feel like shouting from the roof-top that never will I forget this book – because it became so life-like to me. You can definitely find me in the loyal fan category for these two amazing authors.
One final word to the wise reader who shops for a genuine bargain: “Storm Warning” is the Real McCoy and available on Amazon.com for a steal at the price of 99-cents.
December 12, 2013
Storm Warning was such an emotional, heart-warming and fantastic young adult novel. I love Elizabeth Lee and Caisey Quinn's new adult novels so seeing them collaborate together for a young adult series is amazing. The thing I loved the most about this book was how character-centric it is. The book is really all about these five teenagers and the summer that changed their lives. There is first love, new love, family drama and a storm to end all storms. Hang on because it's one wild ride.
This book revolves around summer break for 5 teenagers; Kyle, Cooper (Coop), Ella Jane (EJ), Hayden and Cameron (Cami). Kyle, Coop, and EJ live in the small farm town of Hope Springs, OK and Hayden and Cami live in Summitt Bluffs where all the wealthy people live. While these group of kids live on the opposite side of the tracks, their lives become intertwined for one unforgettable summer. Kyle and Cami enter a whirlwind romance that makes them both see things in a new light. EJ falls for Hayden while nursing a broken heart over Cooper, who doesn't have enough guts to tell her that he loves her. I think EJ and Hayden are my favorite and I really connected with these two characters the most. Go #TeamHayden!
EJ is a real country girl and she is smart, beautiful, and feisty. She isn't afraid to speak her mind and she doesn't fawn all over Hayden like most girls. Of course she's attracted to him and she ogles him from afar but she really knows how to keep her cool around him and not show how much she's affected. This girl kicks ass! I absolutely LOVED Hayden's growth and I think he was the best developed character of them all. He really changes over the course of the summer and he doesn't want to be that same selfish jack ass he was before. Spending time with his grandparents and getting to know EJ has really opened his eyes and as he falls in love with her, he becomes a better version of himself. Gods, I love him so much!
Before EJ meets Hayden, she was seriously lusting after Brantley Cooper, or Coop as everyone calls him. He is Kyle's best friend and she had been in love with him for like ever. The thing is, Coop is in love with her too but he has been afraid to cross that line because of Kyle. I liked Coop well enough and he is really good guy. He looks out for EJ, is protective of her and would do anything to make her happy. However, he needs some serious balls because he's so afraid of Kyle that he ends up breaking EJ's heart and pushing her right into Hayden's arms. I really liked Coop's loyalty to his family and the fact he would do anything to help them out as they struggle with their farm. I liked Coop but I need a man who will take charge and go after what he wants. When it comes to EJ, he falls short in that category.
I connected the least with Kyle and Cami and I wasn't as invested in their summer romance as I was in the love triangle going down in Hope Springs. Cami was my least favorite character, as she is a bit conceived and shallow. Seeing the way her parents are towards her and each other, it's understandable that she wouldn't know how to be any other way. I do think there is a sweet and kind girl in there but she allows the shallow, rich girl side to rear it's ugly head one too many times. I liked that she didn't care where Kyle was from or how much money he had. However, the fact that he was headed off to college to play football was a plus for her and when Kyle questions his decisions for the future, her reaction is both immature and upsetting. I really liked that Kyle is a family guy and his devotion to EJ and his mother was admirable. They are clearly important to him and I loved that. However, I think he sometimes treats EJ like a little girl and interferes with her life a little too much. I also felt like he was a bit hypocritical when it came to Cooper because he really discouraged Coop away from EJ but openly gave Hayden his blessing. While I'm 100% Team Hayden, I was a bit surprised by this seeing as how Coop is seemingly the better man.
While the characters are the core to this story, the plot was just as fantastic. My heart fluttered from the romance that built between EJ and Hayden and taking the journey with them as they got to know each other and fell in love was beautiful. From their first kiss, I was fully on board with their growing relationship. Hayden discovers a lot about himself and his family and the moments with his grandparents were really sweet. They really help him put his life into perspective. EJ and Kyle are also facing a family crisis and EJ is really fragile right now. Being with Hayden really helps her deal with all of the pain and turmoil that she is suffering. Kyle is forced to question his future and whether or not college and football is the right decision considering everything going on with his family. I feel bad for him because he is so young and he shouldn't have to give up his dreams. As the summer comes to a close, there are a lot of misunderstandings that take place and when a life threatening storm hits Hope Springs, someone may not have the chance to make things right.
Wow! The ending and the epilogue to this book definitely left my heart-beating. It was quite the cliffhanger and I am desperate for the story to continue. I have become invested in these characters lives and so much was left hanging in the balance. The writing, of course, was incredible and it all flowed so well together. Sometimes having so many characters and POV's can be a little overwhelming but I felt like the authors did a beautiful job and I had no problems with the multiple characters and plot lines. The Broken Heartland series is an incredible new Young Adult series and if you're a fan of YA contemporary novels, this is a must-read.
*An eARC was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
This book revolves around summer break for 5 teenagers; Kyle, Cooper (Coop), Ella Jane (EJ), Hayden and Cameron (Cami). Kyle, Coop, and EJ live in the small farm town of Hope Springs, OK and Hayden and Cami live in Summitt Bluffs where all the wealthy people live. While these group of kids live on the opposite side of the tracks, their lives become intertwined for one unforgettable summer. Kyle and Cami enter a whirlwind romance that makes them both see things in a new light. EJ falls for Hayden while nursing a broken heart over Cooper, who doesn't have enough guts to tell her that he loves her. I think EJ and Hayden are my favorite and I really connected with these two characters the most. Go #TeamHayden!
EJ is a real country girl and she is smart, beautiful, and feisty. She isn't afraid to speak her mind and she doesn't fawn all over Hayden like most girls. Of course she's attracted to him and she ogles him from afar but she really knows how to keep her cool around him and not show how much she's affected. This girl kicks ass! I absolutely LOVED Hayden's growth and I think he was the best developed character of them all. He really changes over the course of the summer and he doesn't want to be that same selfish jack ass he was before. Spending time with his grandparents and getting to know EJ has really opened his eyes and as he falls in love with her, he becomes a better version of himself. Gods, I love him so much!
Before EJ meets Hayden, she was seriously lusting after Brantley Cooper, or Coop as everyone calls him. He is Kyle's best friend and she had been in love with him for like ever. The thing is, Coop is in love with her too but he has been afraid to cross that line because of Kyle. I liked Coop well enough and he is really good guy. He looks out for EJ, is protective of her and would do anything to make her happy. However, he needs some serious balls because he's so afraid of Kyle that he ends up breaking EJ's heart and pushing her right into Hayden's arms. I really liked Coop's loyalty to his family and the fact he would do anything to help them out as they struggle with their farm. I liked Coop but I need a man who will take charge and go after what he wants. When it comes to EJ, he falls short in that category.
I connected the least with Kyle and Cami and I wasn't as invested in their summer romance as I was in the love triangle going down in Hope Springs. Cami was my least favorite character, as she is a bit conceived and shallow. Seeing the way her parents are towards her and each other, it's understandable that she wouldn't know how to be any other way. I do think there is a sweet and kind girl in there but she allows the shallow, rich girl side to rear it's ugly head one too many times. I liked that she didn't care where Kyle was from or how much money he had. However, the fact that he was headed off to college to play football was a plus for her and when Kyle questions his decisions for the future, her reaction is both immature and upsetting. I really liked that Kyle is a family guy and his devotion to EJ and his mother was admirable. They are clearly important to him and I loved that. However, I think he sometimes treats EJ like a little girl and interferes with her life a little too much. I also felt like he was a bit hypocritical when it came to Cooper because he really discouraged Coop away from EJ but openly gave Hayden his blessing. While I'm 100% Team Hayden, I was a bit surprised by this seeing as how Coop is seemingly the better man.
While the characters are the core to this story, the plot was just as fantastic. My heart fluttered from the romance that built between EJ and Hayden and taking the journey with them as they got to know each other and fell in love was beautiful. From their first kiss, I was fully on board with their growing relationship. Hayden discovers a lot about himself and his family and the moments with his grandparents were really sweet. They really help him put his life into perspective. EJ and Kyle are also facing a family crisis and EJ is really fragile right now. Being with Hayden really helps her deal with all of the pain and turmoil that she is suffering. Kyle is forced to question his future and whether or not college and football is the right decision considering everything going on with his family. I feel bad for him because he is so young and he shouldn't have to give up his dreams. As the summer comes to a close, there are a lot of misunderstandings that take place and when a life threatening storm hits Hope Springs, someone may not have the chance to make things right.
Wow! The ending and the epilogue to this book definitely left my heart-beating. It was quite the cliffhanger and I am desperate for the story to continue. I have become invested in these characters lives and so much was left hanging in the balance. The writing, of course, was incredible and it all flowed so well together. Sometimes having so many characters and POV's can be a little overwhelming but I felt like the authors did a beautiful job and I had no problems with the multiple characters and plot lines. The Broken Heartland series is an incredible new Young Adult series and if you're a fan of YA contemporary novels, this is a must-read.
*An eARC was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
December 6, 2013
Warning: approach this book with extreme caution. Grab the essentials (chocolate) and seek comfortable shelter. Prepare to fall into a book coma, grin your face off, and tumble boots first in love with five southern teens during a summer that changes everything.
December 11, 2013
Read more reviews at What Danielle Did Next
4.5 stars
Allow me to catch my breath a little and recover from the emotional tornado that just whipped me up into a frenzy!
I have been aching to read STORM WARNING ever since one of my fave authors whom I’ve discovered this year, Caisey Quinn tweeted about her new YA series with another author whose work I’ve been wanting to read, Elizabeth Lee. My head is spinning right now and I have so much adrenaline flashing through my veins that it’s making me dizzy. My expectations coming into this novel have been completely turned upside down and I truly don’t know which way is up and THAT IS A GOOD THING!
It takes a lot to make me flail and flap and right now I’m like that freaking penguin from Happy Feet slipping and sliding all over the damn place. Sorry for swearing! Is damn a swear? Fuck it! I don’t care…oops!
OKAY! *puts on reviewing cap*…where do I begin? Five teenagers – Kyle, Cami, Cooper, Ella Jane and Hayden find their lives intertwine during one hot, stormy summer in Oklahoma. Kyle and Ella Jane live in the small community of Hope’s Grove and have just had their lives torn apart when their dad leaves and moves in with another woman. Cooper, Kyle’s best friend who’s pined after Ella Jane for years is dealing with family worries. Hayden and Cami, on again off again couple from the privileged Summit Bluffs nearby have called it quits for the summer. Hayden has messed up one too many times and finds himself packed off to Hope’s Grove for the summer to stay with his grandparents and learn the meaning of honest, hard work. Cami, let down once again by her parent’s empty promises, chooses to spend the summer by the pool and hope nobody finds out. Five teens, five lives about to change, who will have their hearts broken and who will be breaking hearts?
I started STORM WARNING straight after yet another “paint by numbers” NA and I was feeling seriously jaded. This book was a breath of fresh air and catapulted me back to those sweet, heady days of overpowering teen love where summer seems like an endless dream and your world is that one person who makes your breath catch in your throat with a simple look.
One thing that impressed me the most was how seamless the writing was. I couldn’t tell that it was two different authors, the story flowed smoothly and the pacing was excellent. With five POV’s I thought I would be overwhelmed trying to keep track but each character’s voice was utterly unique and each owned their story so it was impossible to not get caught up in their emotions and lives while still being able to differentiate my feelings and opinions about each characters’ individual perspective.
My favourite character was Ella Jane, hands down! She was awesome and I want to hang out and get lifestyle tips from this chick. Sassy, brave and capable of immense kindness and wisdom beyond her years, Ella Jane was the POV I looked forward to most. Caught between the affections of two guys, I liked how she made a decision and stuck to it. There was none of the hand wringing and wailing that’s seen all too often in other YA novels, Ej can dish it out and take it too. Hers and Kyle’s family situation is one I’m all too familiar with which strengthened my connection with her.
I honestly thought coming into this story that Cooper would be “my guy” but it was Hayden that I ended up falling for. The cocky little rich boy went through one of the best character developments I’ve come across in a long time and really impressed me with his growth. While I do have a soft spot for Cooper, boyfriend needs his testicles to drop and then we’ll talk ;) Kyle and Cami were my least favourite characters, I feel that the multiple POV’s meant that I got to know them the least and so my connection with them suffered but I hope that will be rectified in book two!
I loved the insight into Southern Life; it made me ache to spend a summer in America’s heartland and experience the sense of togetherness and love that seems intrinsic to southern culture and life. I felt that I could visualise the picturesque setting perfectly and the gentle breeze and sweet scents of summer wafting though Hope’s Grove accosted my senses every time I thought of the small community and its unforgettable characters. The essence of teenage life was captured perfectly by the authors. The feelings and emotions that overwhelm the characters as they try and make the leap into adulthood whilst still struggling in the grasp of adolescence felt real and expressed with stirring and sometimes brutal emotion.
Speaking of brutal…like the calm before a storm, this story of trust, first loves and family is truly tested as the warnings we got both as characters and readers were brushed aside as we’re caught up in the exhilaration of head over feet love finally makes way for the real storm and the reason for the book’s title becomes chillingly clear.
The last 10% of the story staggered me, to the point where I still feel punch drunk! At first it felt rushed and I was angry when I finished because it seemed like the pacing was off but then it hit me just how perfect it was.
Just like a storm in real life, the speed with which nature takes hold and rips your life apart is mirrored perfectly here. The adrenaline rush as I raced through those last few pages left me lightheaded and positively dumbstruck. I feel like I’m holding my breath, waiting for the storm to pass and wondering just what wreckage will be waiting for me when I open the door to the storm shelter and am greeted by the blinding sunshine and wait for the picture to form. Will it be utter devastation or will there be hope when the winds die down? One can only hope but I’ll be waiting with bated breath until those two evil geniuses put us out of our misery and give us book two! Compelling, emotional and downright wonderful, STORM WARNING was worth the wait!
4.5 stars
Allow me to catch my breath a little and recover from the emotional tornado that just whipped me up into a frenzy!
I have been aching to read STORM WARNING ever since one of my fave authors whom I’ve discovered this year, Caisey Quinn tweeted about her new YA series with another author whose work I’ve been wanting to read, Elizabeth Lee. My head is spinning right now and I have so much adrenaline flashing through my veins that it’s making me dizzy. My expectations coming into this novel have been completely turned upside down and I truly don’t know which way is up and THAT IS A GOOD THING!
It takes a lot to make me flail and flap and right now I’m like that freaking penguin from Happy Feet slipping and sliding all over the damn place. Sorry for swearing! Is damn a swear? Fuck it! I don’t care…oops!
OKAY! *puts on reviewing cap*…where do I begin? Five teenagers – Kyle, Cami, Cooper, Ella Jane and Hayden find their lives intertwine during one hot, stormy summer in Oklahoma. Kyle and Ella Jane live in the small community of Hope’s Grove and have just had their lives torn apart when their dad leaves and moves in with another woman. Cooper, Kyle’s best friend who’s pined after Ella Jane for years is dealing with family worries. Hayden and Cami, on again off again couple from the privileged Summit Bluffs nearby have called it quits for the summer. Hayden has messed up one too many times and finds himself packed off to Hope’s Grove for the summer to stay with his grandparents and learn the meaning of honest, hard work. Cami, let down once again by her parent’s empty promises, chooses to spend the summer by the pool and hope nobody finds out. Five teens, five lives about to change, who will have their hearts broken and who will be breaking hearts?
I started STORM WARNING straight after yet another “paint by numbers” NA and I was feeling seriously jaded. This book was a breath of fresh air and catapulted me back to those sweet, heady days of overpowering teen love where summer seems like an endless dream and your world is that one person who makes your breath catch in your throat with a simple look.
One thing that impressed me the most was how seamless the writing was. I couldn’t tell that it was two different authors, the story flowed smoothly and the pacing was excellent. With five POV’s I thought I would be overwhelmed trying to keep track but each character’s voice was utterly unique and each owned their story so it was impossible to not get caught up in their emotions and lives while still being able to differentiate my feelings and opinions about each characters’ individual perspective.
My favourite character was Ella Jane, hands down! She was awesome and I want to hang out and get lifestyle tips from this chick. Sassy, brave and capable of immense kindness and wisdom beyond her years, Ella Jane was the POV I looked forward to most. Caught between the affections of two guys, I liked how she made a decision and stuck to it. There was none of the hand wringing and wailing that’s seen all too often in other YA novels, Ej can dish it out and take it too. Hers and Kyle’s family situation is one I’m all too familiar with which strengthened my connection with her.
I honestly thought coming into this story that Cooper would be “my guy” but it was Hayden that I ended up falling for. The cocky little rich boy went through one of the best character developments I’ve come across in a long time and really impressed me with his growth. While I do have a soft spot for Cooper, boyfriend needs his testicles to drop and then we’ll talk ;) Kyle and Cami were my least favourite characters, I feel that the multiple POV’s meant that I got to know them the least and so my connection with them suffered but I hope that will be rectified in book two!
I loved the insight into Southern Life; it made me ache to spend a summer in America’s heartland and experience the sense of togetherness and love that seems intrinsic to southern culture and life. I felt that I could visualise the picturesque setting perfectly and the gentle breeze and sweet scents of summer wafting though Hope’s Grove accosted my senses every time I thought of the small community and its unforgettable characters. The essence of teenage life was captured perfectly by the authors. The feelings and emotions that overwhelm the characters as they try and make the leap into adulthood whilst still struggling in the grasp of adolescence felt real and expressed with stirring and sometimes brutal emotion.
Speaking of brutal…like the calm before a storm, this story of trust, first loves and family is truly tested as the warnings we got both as characters and readers were brushed aside as we’re caught up in the exhilaration of head over feet love finally makes way for the real storm and the reason for the book’s title becomes chillingly clear.
The last 10% of the story staggered me, to the point where I still feel punch drunk! At first it felt rushed and I was angry when I finished because it seemed like the pacing was off but then it hit me just how perfect it was.
Just like a storm in real life, the speed with which nature takes hold and rips your life apart is mirrored perfectly here. The adrenaline rush as I raced through those last few pages left me lightheaded and positively dumbstruck. I feel like I’m holding my breath, waiting for the storm to pass and wondering just what wreckage will be waiting for me when I open the door to the storm shelter and am greeted by the blinding sunshine and wait for the picture to form. Will it be utter devastation or will there be hope when the winds die down? One can only hope but I’ll be waiting with bated breath until those two evil geniuses put us out of our misery and give us book two! Compelling, emotional and downright wonderful, STORM WARNING was worth the wait!
December 12, 2013
I honestly don't even know where to start! Storm Warning completely blew me away. Hands down, this is one of the best YA contemporaries I've ever read. Honestly. My favorite thing about this book is how incredibly realistic it is. It's just a good story about four teenagers whose summers are filled with new beginnings and new adventures. I wasn't sure how I would like four different narrators, but seriously- E. Lee and C. Quinn made it work! The transitions were seamless and I didn't feel like we were jumping back and forth from storyline to storyline. While I liked Kyle and Cami, I did find myself craving more of Hayden, EJ, and Coop. :) I've said it time and time again- if you can't relate to your characters then you won't be as invested in them. I may be 10 years older than our narrators, but I could still relate and connect to them. I remember being that age- crushing on guys, first loves, and wondering about what the future would hold. This is what is so great about this book- not only can young adults relate to it because they are that point in their lives, but adults can also because most of us remember those things.
Kyle Mason and Brantley (Coop) Cooper have been best friends forever. They are loyal, good friends to one another. (In some cases, TOO loyal) They are good ole country boys who know the meaning of hard work and taking care of their family.
Kyle is on his way to Oklahoma State to play football and is spending most of his summer at training camp. While he is not practicing, he is doing landscaping for his family's business. His landscaping project is in Summit Bluffs, where the wealthy and over privileged live. Kyle never expected to find something incredible there, but sometimes what you need most is the thing you're least expecting. While Kyle is gone, he expects his best friend to watch out for his 16 year old sister, Ella Jane (EJ).
Coop is happy to oblige his best friend, as he doesn't see EJ as a little girl anymore. On the contrary, he recognizes she is far from the little girl that used to tag along with them. I won't lie. When I first heard of Coop's character, I was all kinds of #TeamCoop. Really. I love the whole best friend falling for the younger sister angle. It's adorable! However, Coop takes his job as Kyle's best friend a bit too seriously and instead of going after what he wanted, he lets his chance go by time and time again. Sorry Coop- you snooze, you lose...
EJ. Oh, sweet, fiery, fun EJ. I loved her. She isn't afraid to be who she is and I admired her for that. She has an innocence to her and yet she isn't afraid to take chances. She has been crushing on Coop for as long as she can remember. All she wants is for him to acknowledge that she's not a little girl anymore. But how long can a girl go and wait in the wings for the boy to make a move? This summer is full of new and unexpected beginnings for EJ. However, it is also a summer of change and EJ is trying to be okay with that, but she also feels the loss of her childhood where everything is simple and no one ever leaves. This really takes a toll on her and she starts to lose some of that childlike innocence, and is forced to grow up a bit instead.
This is where Hayden Prescott comes into play. For those of you who have seen One Tree Hill, Hayden reminds me A LOT of Nathan. Which is awesome, because I ended up loving Nathan the most. So, you can probably guess what Team I'm on, eh? #TeamHayden, baby! Hayden has always been the golden boy in Summit Bluffs. He has the dream girlfriend, the wealth, the opportunities... However, being sent to spend the summer helping out the Mason family and staying with his grandparents is really the last thing he'd rather do. I loved watching Hayden's prejudices and assumptions dissipate. He thinks he knows what his summer is going to be like, but he has no idea. I honestly felt like Hayden had the most development as a character. We really got to see a different guy by the end of the book. Everything has always come easily to him, but he wants to be seen as worthy to the people he cares about. AND I FREAKING LOVED HIM. His relationship that develops with a certain character ended up tugging at my heartstrings because I thought they were precious and I loved how wonderful he was with her.
"I've never wanted anything the way I want you," he said between kisses. His words burned into her heart, imprinting themselves onto her soul- where she planned to keep them forever." e-ARC 83%)
Finally, there's Cami. I liked Cami, but not as much as EJ. Cami lives the life of a pampered princess, but is secretly miserable. She hates doing pageants, doesn't feel the spark that she should with her boyfriend (who she's really only dating because it's expected and looks good), and most of all- she is incredibly lonely. I hated that for her. She gets attention, but it's not the attention she craves and needs. She ends up meeting and being attracted to someone she never thought she would, and I am rooting for them together.
You guys. This story is just full of so much awesome. E. Lee and C. Quinn are such talented writers and they really bring this story to life. It is vibrant and full of so many great moments that had me flying through the pages and then pouting when it was over. Ok, really I was gaping and my mouth was wide open and I may have been shaking my fist at the sky because of what E. Lee and C. Quinn pulled. But it's okay. I love them anyways. However- I am desperate for the second book in the series, Path of Destruction to come out. If you are looking for a YA Contemporary that will remind you what YA Contemporary SHOULD BE- you need to jump head first into the storm and let it blow you away...
*Received a copy of this in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
Kyle Mason and Brantley (Coop) Cooper have been best friends forever. They are loyal, good friends to one another. (In some cases, TOO loyal) They are good ole country boys who know the meaning of hard work and taking care of their family.
Kyle is on his way to Oklahoma State to play football and is spending most of his summer at training camp. While he is not practicing, he is doing landscaping for his family's business. His landscaping project is in Summit Bluffs, where the wealthy and over privileged live. Kyle never expected to find something incredible there, but sometimes what you need most is the thing you're least expecting. While Kyle is gone, he expects his best friend to watch out for his 16 year old sister, Ella Jane (EJ).
Coop is happy to oblige his best friend, as he doesn't see EJ as a little girl anymore. On the contrary, he recognizes she is far from the little girl that used to tag along with them. I won't lie. When I first heard of Coop's character, I was all kinds of #TeamCoop. Really. I love the whole best friend falling for the younger sister angle. It's adorable! However, Coop takes his job as Kyle's best friend a bit too seriously and instead of going after what he wanted, he lets his chance go by time and time again. Sorry Coop- you snooze, you lose...
EJ. Oh, sweet, fiery, fun EJ. I loved her. She isn't afraid to be who she is and I admired her for that. She has an innocence to her and yet she isn't afraid to take chances. She has been crushing on Coop for as long as she can remember. All she wants is for him to acknowledge that she's not a little girl anymore. But how long can a girl go and wait in the wings for the boy to make a move? This summer is full of new and unexpected beginnings for EJ. However, it is also a summer of change and EJ is trying to be okay with that, but she also feels the loss of her childhood where everything is simple and no one ever leaves. This really takes a toll on her and she starts to lose some of that childlike innocence, and is forced to grow up a bit instead.
This is where Hayden Prescott comes into play. For those of you who have seen One Tree Hill, Hayden reminds me A LOT of Nathan. Which is awesome, because I ended up loving Nathan the most. So, you can probably guess what Team I'm on, eh? #TeamHayden, baby! Hayden has always been the golden boy in Summit Bluffs. He has the dream girlfriend, the wealth, the opportunities... However, being sent to spend the summer helping out the Mason family and staying with his grandparents is really the last thing he'd rather do. I loved watching Hayden's prejudices and assumptions dissipate. He thinks he knows what his summer is going to be like, but he has no idea. I honestly felt like Hayden had the most development as a character. We really got to see a different guy by the end of the book. Everything has always come easily to him, but he wants to be seen as worthy to the people he cares about. AND I FREAKING LOVED HIM. His relationship that develops with a certain character ended up tugging at my heartstrings because I thought they were precious and I loved how wonderful he was with her.
"I've never wanted anything the way I want you," he said between kisses. His words burned into her heart, imprinting themselves onto her soul- where she planned to keep them forever." e-ARC 83%)
Finally, there's Cami. I liked Cami, but not as much as EJ. Cami lives the life of a pampered princess, but is secretly miserable. She hates doing pageants, doesn't feel the spark that she should with her boyfriend (who she's really only dating because it's expected and looks good), and most of all- she is incredibly lonely. I hated that for her. She gets attention, but it's not the attention she craves and needs. She ends up meeting and being attracted to someone she never thought she would, and I am rooting for them together.
You guys. This story is just full of so much awesome. E. Lee and C. Quinn are such talented writers and they really bring this story to life. It is vibrant and full of so many great moments that had me flying through the pages and then pouting when it was over. Ok, really I was gaping and my mouth was wide open and I may have been shaking my fist at the sky because of what E. Lee and C. Quinn pulled. But it's okay. I love them anyways. However- I am desperate for the second book in the series, Path of Destruction to come out. If you are looking for a YA Contemporary that will remind you what YA Contemporary SHOULD BE- you need to jump head first into the storm and let it blow you away...
*Received a copy of this in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
December 11, 2013
Ok, so it is no secret that I love Elizabeth Lee and all of her books, her characters, her awesomeness, her first born...please, the list could go on and on. ;-) So you know I would totally love this book, right? And then she paired her writing skills with the powerhouse that is Caisey Quinn!?! Seriously, I knew this was going to be PHENOMENAL! However, it is confession time...and don’t hate me for it, but I had never read any book by Caisey before this one!!! I know, I know! To make amends, it is one of my goals by the end of this year or early next year to finish at least one of her other books! PROMISE!
This book was just flat-out amazing. Complete perfection! Like seriously, I am still in a bit of a book hangover and it has been two weeks since I finished it. I have been reading the same book that I started after finishing Storm Warning because I couldn't disconnect from the characters and the story. That’s a great book, is it not people?!? I know you know what I’m talking about. Plus, it didn't help with the way these authors left us at the end. But I guess I should start at the beginning, shouldn't I?!?
First, let me at least let you know that this book is a mature YA (one of my fave categories). So if that isn't your thang, then you might not want to read this one, BUT you will SO be missing out. The story is based in Oklahoma and focuses around five main characters (which we get all of their POVs): Kyle Mason, Cameron (Cami) Michelson , Hayden Prescott, Ella Jane (EJ) Mason, and Brantley (Coop) Cooper. Can I just point out how AWESOME it was to have 5 POVs?? Like seriously, it kept the story so interesting and fresh. These characters are from different worlds but they are thrown together for the summer. Oh, the webs they weave! So how about we explore each character a little more. You still with me people?
Okay, so there is Kyle, he is the star football player who recently graduated from high school and has a scholarship to Oklahoma State University. He is also now the man of his family since his no good dad left them for another woman. He struggles between responsibility of family and the family business to just being an eighteen year old about to attend his first year of college. He quickly meets Cami and there is this immediate chemistry...but really, how could there not be when she was almost naked?
Oh dear Cami...she is such a sweet girl but yet such a confused girl. Sure, she is the only child of wealthy parents but her parents are never there for her. Case in point, her mom was supposed to take her on a summer trip to St. Tropez but because she didn't win Miss Teen Oklahoma she told her that she couldn't go (yep, of course mama is a Former Miss Oklahoma). Nice mom, right? And then Cami’s boyfriend, Hayden, and her broke up since she was “supposed” to be in the tropics and he was being sent off to the country to help his grandfather. Thank goodness they took that “break.”
Oh Hayden, how I love thee! ♥♥♥♥♥ Yep, all #TeamHayden here. He is of course from a wealthy family who already has his future set out for him with Cami. However, they both know that there is something missing between them. The last thing he expects when he is sent to the country to help his grandfather is to find that “something.” From the moment that him and EJ meet, you can just tell, this is going to be good. Major SW♥♥N factor.
And EJ, sister of Kyle, how I want to be friends with this one. She is smart, sweet, and sarcastic. The perfect combination in my book. She is one of my favorite female characters ever...even if she wasn't so #TeamHayden at first. They meet when Hayden is sent to help her family’s business. She was definitely not interested in him at first. She actually only had eyes for her brother’s best friend, Coop.
Damn Coop, I was SO ready for a dirt bike riding guy to fall in love with! And I totally was loving him until he was just a chicken shit. MAN UP BRO, MAN UP!! He has feelings for EJ but yet he is too afraid to tell his best friend Kyle. And then Hayden win’s my heart, and I just wanted to keep Coop in the friend/like-a-brother zone. He does have a good heart though!
There is so much story in this book yet so much more that I have to know...like what happened to...and what about...and then, NO WAY THAT JUST HAPPENED!!! Seriously, the ending of this book about killed me. KILLED ME. I looked directly at the authors and told them that they are evil and that I must have book 2, Path of Destruction, sooner rather than later. Seriously, my world will have to stop when I get this book to read. Until then, I guess I will just reach out to my support group when I need to discuss. From what I already discussed with one of them, I just couldn't fathom the theory. I will NOT be happy!!! Anyway, happy reading peeps!
Favorite Quotes
“Schedule?” He sat up and rubbed both fists through his eyes. Glancing down, he noted gratefully that he didn't have morning wood. Even his dick was still asleep. - Hayden
“Did you take up smoking crack as a hobby recently?” “Oh yes, it’s lovely. Just a shade less hazardous than the meth.” - EJ and her mom
She practically had virgin stamped on her forehead. And he had a hard rule about virgins. They were a no fly zone. As in, his fly did not go anywhere near them. - Hayden
She was champagne and caviar and he was beer and corndogs. - Kyle
This book was just flat-out amazing. Complete perfection! Like seriously, I am still in a bit of a book hangover and it has been two weeks since I finished it. I have been reading the same book that I started after finishing Storm Warning because I couldn't disconnect from the characters and the story. That’s a great book, is it not people?!? I know you know what I’m talking about. Plus, it didn't help with the way these authors left us at the end. But I guess I should start at the beginning, shouldn't I?!?
First, let me at least let you know that this book is a mature YA (one of my fave categories). So if that isn't your thang, then you might not want to read this one, BUT you will SO be missing out. The story is based in Oklahoma and focuses around five main characters (which we get all of their POVs): Kyle Mason, Cameron (Cami) Michelson , Hayden Prescott, Ella Jane (EJ) Mason, and Brantley (Coop) Cooper. Can I just point out how AWESOME it was to have 5 POVs?? Like seriously, it kept the story so interesting and fresh. These characters are from different worlds but they are thrown together for the summer. Oh, the webs they weave! So how about we explore each character a little more. You still with me people?
Okay, so there is Kyle, he is the star football player who recently graduated from high school and has a scholarship to Oklahoma State University. He is also now the man of his family since his no good dad left them for another woman. He struggles between responsibility of family and the family business to just being an eighteen year old about to attend his first year of college. He quickly meets Cami and there is this immediate chemistry...but really, how could there not be when she was almost naked?
Oh dear Cami...she is such a sweet girl but yet such a confused girl. Sure, she is the only child of wealthy parents but her parents are never there for her. Case in point, her mom was supposed to take her on a summer trip to St. Tropez but because she didn't win Miss Teen Oklahoma she told her that she couldn't go (yep, of course mama is a Former Miss Oklahoma). Nice mom, right? And then Cami’s boyfriend, Hayden, and her broke up since she was “supposed” to be in the tropics and he was being sent off to the country to help his grandfather. Thank goodness they took that “break.”
Oh Hayden, how I love thee! ♥♥♥♥♥ Yep, all #TeamHayden here. He is of course from a wealthy family who already has his future set out for him with Cami. However, they both know that there is something missing between them. The last thing he expects when he is sent to the country to help his grandfather is to find that “something.” From the moment that him and EJ meet, you can just tell, this is going to be good. Major SW♥♥N factor.
And EJ, sister of Kyle, how I want to be friends with this one. She is smart, sweet, and sarcastic. The perfect combination in my book. She is one of my favorite female characters ever...even if she wasn't so #TeamHayden at first. They meet when Hayden is sent to help her family’s business. She was definitely not interested in him at first. She actually only had eyes for her brother’s best friend, Coop.
Damn Coop, I was SO ready for a dirt bike riding guy to fall in love with! And I totally was loving him until he was just a chicken shit. MAN UP BRO, MAN UP!! He has feelings for EJ but yet he is too afraid to tell his best friend Kyle. And then Hayden win’s my heart, and I just wanted to keep Coop in the friend/like-a-brother zone. He does have a good heart though!
There is so much story in this book yet so much more that I have to know...like what happened to...and what about...and then, NO WAY THAT JUST HAPPENED!!! Seriously, the ending of this book about killed me. KILLED ME. I looked directly at the authors and told them that they are evil and that I must have book 2, Path of Destruction, sooner rather than later. Seriously, my world will have to stop when I get this book to read. Until then, I guess I will just reach out to my support group when I need to discuss. From what I already discussed with one of them, I just couldn't fathom the theory. I will NOT be happy!!! Anyway, happy reading peeps!
Favorite Quotes
“Schedule?” He sat up and rubbed both fists through his eyes. Glancing down, he noted gratefully that he didn't have morning wood. Even his dick was still asleep. - Hayden
“Did you take up smoking crack as a hobby recently?” “Oh yes, it’s lovely. Just a shade less hazardous than the meth.” - EJ and her mom
She practically had virgin stamped on her forehead. And he had a hard rule about virgins. They were a no fly zone. As in, his fly did not go anywhere near them. - Hayden
She was champagne and caviar and he was beer and corndogs. - Kyle
November 26, 2014
4.5 stars
NO WAY. NO EFFING WAY!! WHAT HAPPENED?? THEY CAN'T DO THIS!! I NEED BOOK TWO!!
This is not happening. I can't even find the second book on goodreads. At least the ebook said Broken Heartland Book #2: Path of Destruction coming Spring 2014. Freaking cliffhanger.
Seriously, this is not cool. I knew there was a cliffhanger, but that's not just a cliffhanger, it's a cliffhanger for god's sake. One of the worst kind.
So, be warned. You might want to wait until book #2 is out.
For what it's worth, I really loved this story. Especially Ella Jane and Hayden. I absolutely adored those two.
I was actually really torn in the beginning about who I wanted Ella Jane to end up with. On one hand there's Coop, her brother Kyle's best friend whom she's known all her life and had a crush on for years. On the other hand there's Hayden, the cocky rich boy who knows exactly what he wants and usually that's what he gets. He's arrogant and spoiled and wants Ella Jane from the moment he lays his eyes on her.
To be honest, I thought I knew who I would fall for before I even started this. And reading the first 10 or 20 percent confirmed as much. Boy, was I wrong! I don't know exactly what changed but suddenly I found myself totally falling for Hayden.
EJ and Hayden were awesome together. In the beginning it was all teasing and arrogance on his side which always made her mad.
Ella Jane is probably the strongest 16 year old I've ever read about. She knows exactly who she is and what she wants. She doesn't play any games and her honesty is astounding. As you can imagine, she never took any of Hayden's rich boy bullshit and he realized pretty soon that EJ's more than a little summer fling. Though everyone else thinks that he's a major asshole, he starts to show his sweet and caring side with her.
At some point I didn't even feel bad for Coop (aka Joe) anymore because he just never did anything about this feelings for EJ. His anger at Hayden and his self-pity really started to annoy me.
Kyle on the other hand is a really cool and sweet guy. He's very protective of EJ (a little too much, if you ask me - and her) and he's awesome with Cami, Hayden's ex. Kyle's her family's landscaper over the sumer and meets - and falls for - a very lonely Cami.
Their story was really cute, though I felt like it was just a side story. It had lots of potential, but I felt like I never had enough time to really connect with them, especially Cami. It's why I always kind of wanted to skip it and go back to Ella Jane and her boy drama. It's also why I didn't give the half of the last star.
All in all, I can definitely recommend this sweet but explosive summer story!
NO WAY. NO EFFING WAY!! WHAT HAPPENED?? THEY CAN'T DO THIS!! I NEED BOOK TWO!!
This is not happening. I can't even find the second book on goodreads. At least the ebook said Broken Heartland Book #2: Path of Destruction coming Spring 2014. Freaking cliffhanger.
Seriously, this is not cool. I knew there was a cliffhanger, but that's not just a cliffhanger, it's a cliffhanger for god's sake. One of the worst kind.
So, be warned. You might want to wait until book #2 is out.
Another secret of the universe: Sometimes pain was like a storm that came out of nowhere. The clearest summer could end in a downpour. Could end in lightning and thunder. - Benjamin Alire Sáen
For what it's worth, I really loved this story. Especially Ella Jane and Hayden. I absolutely adored those two.
I was actually really torn in the beginning about who I wanted Ella Jane to end up with. On one hand there's Coop, her brother Kyle's best friend whom she's known all her life and had a crush on for years. On the other hand there's Hayden, the cocky rich boy who knows exactly what he wants and usually that's what he gets. He's arrogant and spoiled and wants Ella Jane from the moment he lays his eyes on her.
To be honest, I thought I knew who I would fall for before I even started this. And reading the first 10 or 20 percent confirmed as much. Boy, was I wrong! I don't know exactly what changed but suddenly I found myself totally falling for Hayden.
EJ and Hayden were awesome together. In the beginning it was all teasing and arrogance on his side which always made her mad.
"I swear Hayden Prescott. Just when I think you're a decent guy, you go and act like such an ass. Wonder why that is? And by the way, you can keep wishing all you want. It's not a date whether there's food or not. It's a date when I say it's a date. And if I'm being honest, which I always am, you probably couldn't handle me anyways."
Ella Jane is probably the strongest 16 year old I've ever read about. She knows exactly who she is and what she wants. She doesn't play any games and her honesty is astounding. As you can imagine, she never took any of Hayden's rich boy bullshit and he realized pretty soon that EJ's more than a little summer fling. Though everyone else thinks that he's a major asshole, he starts to show his sweet and caring side with her.
She needed that hug, and the fact that she wanted it from him instead of Joe? Well that pretty much made his whole life. So he'd wrapped his arms around her, inhaled her sweet honeysuckle and clean, girly scent, and squeezed as hard as he could without hurting her. "I'm glad you came, angel face," he said low in her ear.
At some point I didn't even feel bad for Coop (aka Joe) anymore because he just never did anything about this feelings for EJ. His anger at Hayden and his self-pity really started to annoy me.
Kyle on the other hand is a really cool and sweet guy. He's very protective of EJ (a little too much, if you ask me - and her) and he's awesome with Cami, Hayden's ex. Kyle's her family's landscaper over the sumer and meets - and falls for - a very lonely Cami.
Their story was really cute, though I felt like it was just a side story. It had lots of potential, but I felt like I never had enough time to really connect with them, especially Cami. It's why I always kind of wanted to skip it and go back to Ella Jane and her boy drama. It's also why I didn't give the half of the last star.
All in all, I can definitely recommend this sweet but explosive summer story!
December 3, 2013
Every once in a while a book or series comes along that reignites your love for reading. This is that kind of series…
Do you remember what it was like to be head over heels for your first love. Do you remember the anxiety, the self doubt, the thrill of the unknown? Do you remember what it was like to step out of the safety and niaveity of your childhood and face becoming an adult head on? Whether you are going through it all right now or it’s just a faded memory, this book will touch a nerve and bring it all flooding back.
The story follows five main characters: Kyle, EJ, Coop, Cami and Hayden. Kyle and Ella Jane are brother and sister and Coop is Kyle’s best friend and the boy EJ has had a major crush on most her life. They are from hard working families in a small town. They grew up together and the three share a special bond. Hayden and Cami are from one town over and their lives are polar opposite. They are the the golden couple of their high school. They come from rich families who spoil them in material things but neglect them emotionally. Over the length of one pivotal summer their lives intersect and everything changes. The boys really grow up. All of them have to sacrifice for their families and each one has to step up and become a man in the face of that reality. I was most impressed with Hayden and his journey. He had to really open his eyes and take a hard look at himself. That’s not so easy to do at 30 much less in your teens. The girls had to face their own trials. Coming of age is always hard on girls. You have to let go of who everyone thinks you are and become comfortable just being who you actually are. Cami has the most trouble with this. I look forward to seeing her blossom in the next book. Then there is EJ our sweet innocent country girl with a backbone. I loved her character. She is just the right combination of sweet and sassy.
I was enthralled from page one. The story was gripping, emotional, nail-biting and real. You actually feel the changes and growth in the characters in your gut. You live it with them. You are taken on quite a ride that will leave you gutted and breathless. E. Lee and C. Quinn did a superb job. Their writing styles blend perfectly and the result is pure magic. Lets just say you will be beating down the rafters demanding book two as soon as you read the last line of Storm Warning.
Favorite Quotes:
“You’re going to look out for her right? When I’m gone? I need to know that somebody is gonna be here to take care of her. and you’re the only person I trust.”
“Please. I enjoy peace. I’ve got smutty romance novels to catch up on.”
“You’re welcome,” his grandma said as he opened the truck door for her. “Don’t make me regret being your wingman”
“Really? What kind of girls do you know?” “Fake ones. Conceited ones. Insecure ones. Lots of different kinds. None like you though.”
“Thanks, babe. Glad someone thinks I’m worth something.”
Do you remember what it was like to be head over heels for your first love. Do you remember the anxiety, the self doubt, the thrill of the unknown? Do you remember what it was like to step out of the safety and niaveity of your childhood and face becoming an adult head on? Whether you are going through it all right now or it’s just a faded memory, this book will touch a nerve and bring it all flooding back.
The story follows five main characters: Kyle, EJ, Coop, Cami and Hayden. Kyle and Ella Jane are brother and sister and Coop is Kyle’s best friend and the boy EJ has had a major crush on most her life. They are from hard working families in a small town. They grew up together and the three share a special bond. Hayden and Cami are from one town over and their lives are polar opposite. They are the the golden couple of their high school. They come from rich families who spoil them in material things but neglect them emotionally. Over the length of one pivotal summer their lives intersect and everything changes. The boys really grow up. All of them have to sacrifice for their families and each one has to step up and become a man in the face of that reality. I was most impressed with Hayden and his journey. He had to really open his eyes and take a hard look at himself. That’s not so easy to do at 30 much less in your teens. The girls had to face their own trials. Coming of age is always hard on girls. You have to let go of who everyone thinks you are and become comfortable just being who you actually are. Cami has the most trouble with this. I look forward to seeing her blossom in the next book. Then there is EJ our sweet innocent country girl with a backbone. I loved her character. She is just the right combination of sweet and sassy.
I was enthralled from page one. The story was gripping, emotional, nail-biting and real. You actually feel the changes and growth in the characters in your gut. You live it with them. You are taken on quite a ride that will leave you gutted and breathless. E. Lee and C. Quinn did a superb job. Their writing styles blend perfectly and the result is pure magic. Lets just say you will be beating down the rafters demanding book two as soon as you read the last line of Storm Warning.
Favorite Quotes:
“You’re going to look out for her right? When I’m gone? I need to know that somebody is gonna be here to take care of her. and you’re the only person I trust.”
“Please. I enjoy peace. I’ve got smutty romance novels to catch up on.”
“You’re welcome,” his grandma said as he opened the truck door for her. “Don’t make me regret being your wingman”
“Really? What kind of girls do you know?” “Fake ones. Conceited ones. Insecure ones. Lots of different kinds. None like you though.”
“Thanks, babe. Glad someone thinks I’m worth something.”
July 17, 2014
Oh my gosh, this book! How can I start explaining my love for it? I just can't... There's too much feelings and emotions involved. Storm Warning was so wonderful, funny, adorable and heartbreaking — it left me in tears. And not many books actually make me cry so this is kind of great.
Storm Warning follows five different people, who are all connected in some way or another. I know there are a lot of readers out there who don't like multiple points of view... Sometimes I'm one of them but I can promise you that with this book it's something really special and I loved it because it was perfectly written the way it was.
Like I said before, this book follows five people: Cameron, Cooper, Ellie Jane, Hayden and Kyle. And I must say that I loved each and every one of them. If I had to pick a favorite I'd have to say Ellie Jane or Hayden. I just loved them together, I guess. But anyway, I loved all their invidual stories so so so much. Really, this book was something else. I haven't read any book like it before. It's amazing how I keep being surprised by these contemporary young adult books. It might just start being one of my favorite genres.
My only slightly less possitive point would be the ending. What in the world was that? I was shocked, simply shocked! That last chapter and the epilogue is what eventually made me cry but in the end we don't really know what happened. It was quite confusing but I'm sure it will all get cleared up in the second book. At least that's what I'm hoping for.
Funny, so cute, wonderfully written and emotional, Storm Warning by E. Lee and C. Quinn was a very surpring and excellent read. I loved every single part and point of view of it and can't wait for the next book to come out. It's definitely become one of my favorite books so far this year. I loved it!
Storm Warning follows five different people, who are all connected in some way or another. I know there are a lot of readers out there who don't like multiple points of view... Sometimes I'm one of them but I can promise you that with this book it's something really special and I loved it because it was perfectly written the way it was.
Like I said before, this book follows five people: Cameron, Cooper, Ellie Jane, Hayden and Kyle. And I must say that I loved each and every one of them. If I had to pick a favorite I'd have to say Ellie Jane or Hayden. I just loved them together, I guess. But anyway, I loved all their invidual stories so so so much. Really, this book was something else. I haven't read any book like it before. It's amazing how I keep being surprised by these contemporary young adult books. It might just start being one of my favorite genres.
My only slightly less possitive point would be the ending. What in the world was that? I was shocked, simply shocked! That last chapter and the epilogue is what eventually made me cry but in the end we don't really know what happened. It was quite confusing but I'm sure it will all get cleared up in the second book. At least that's what I'm hoping for.
Funny, so cute, wonderfully written and emotional, Storm Warning by E. Lee and C. Quinn was a very surpring and excellent read. I loved every single part and point of view of it and can't wait for the next book to come out. It's definitely become one of my favorite books so far this year. I loved it!
November 1, 2018
This had been sitting on my Kindle forever and I just got around to reading it while I was for an appointment. Why did it take me so long to read this?
If I could compare it to something, I could say The Thousandth Floor. Except for swap futuristic New York for present day southern Oklahoma. You still have your rich side and your less wealthy side. We switch POV between five characters We have Kyle, his sister Ella Jane, Cooper, Cameron, and Hunter. They are from different sides of town but their lives all intertwine somehow this summer.
It was so easy to get wrapped into this world the authors created. I don't know if they are from the south but MAN they had the southern sayings down! It wasn’t overdone and it was actually things that we say. (If you can’t tell, overly done southern books annoy me.)
Anywho, this book was very entertaining and kept me reading until I reached the end. I really don’t want to go too much into the plot here. The synopsis doesn't give that much away, and I don’t want to either. It’s so much easier to go in blind. Just know that the angst is real in this one!
This book warns that there is a storm coming and this storm is here to take some lives. This ends in a cliffhanger that's so damn cruel. I need to know more dammit! All in all, this is definitely worth a read!
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If I could compare it to something, I could say The Thousandth Floor. Except for swap futuristic New York for present day southern Oklahoma. You still have your rich side and your less wealthy side. We switch POV between five characters We have Kyle, his sister Ella Jane, Cooper, Cameron, and Hunter. They are from different sides of town but their lives all intertwine somehow this summer.
It was so easy to get wrapped into this world the authors created. I don't know if they are from the south but MAN they had the southern sayings down! It wasn’t overdone and it was actually things that we say. (If you can’t tell, overly done southern books annoy me.)
Anywho, this book was very entertaining and kept me reading until I reached the end. I really don’t want to go too much into the plot here. The synopsis doesn't give that much away, and I don’t want to either. It’s so much easier to go in blind. Just know that the angst is real in this one!
This book warns that there is a storm coming and this storm is here to take some lives. This ends in a cliffhanger that's so damn cruel. I need to know more dammit! All in all, this is definitely worth a read!
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December 14, 2013
I wanted to love this book, I truly did. First of all, I'm not a fan, at all, of love triangles. They seriously make my stomach sick. But since this is a Caisey Quinn book, I couldn't pass it up. While Cooper should have "manned-up" and told Kyle how he felt about EJ, I believe she should have "womaned-up" and told Cooper how she felt rather than sleeping with Hayden. I found her "falling in love" with Hayden not so believable. She's loved Cooper her whole life, but she falls in love with someone else in two months time? Ya, no. I found her character to be selfish and immature. Hayden disgusted me through the entire book, and I despise those that think they're better than everyone because of their social and financial status. To be truthful, I don't know that I will read the others in this series. I was extremely let down with this book unfortunately.
March 1, 2014
4.5 stars! Loved this story, I'm blown away and completely at a loss right now... Storm Warning is a story about 5 teenagers who all live in "tornado alley" in Oklahoma. Told in 5 separate POVs, you'll experience their heartache, love, anger, passion, sadness or betrayal over the course of the summer. Their lives cross paths in some shape or form, and are so intricatley woven that each decision an individual makes, it impacts another in some other way. Such a refreshing read, enjoyed it tremendously!! But am so freaking upset that it's a cliffhanger, a brutal cliffhanger!!!! Now I must stalk the authors' for the release of the next book.
December 12, 2013
If I thought I couldn't love Elizabeth Lee & Caisey Quinn more...I was wrong. Two of my favorite authors in one book! Merry Christmas to me!
The writing in Storm Warning sucks you in from the first sentence till the last!
5 well written characters you are surely to fall in love with!
(makes the ending a little hard)
I will patiently await the sequel!
#TeamEJ she is my favorite!
The writing in Storm Warning sucks you in from the first sentence till the last!
5 well written characters you are surely to fall in love with!
(makes the ending a little hard)
I will patiently await the sequel!
#TeamEJ she is my favorite!
May 13, 2015
Actual rating - 2.5
I can't say I liked any of the characters in this. I found them all pretty annoying.
The majority of the book was pretty dull for me unfortunately. The only bit I found interesting was the end, but it felt like it took forever to get there!
I don't think I'll bother with book two.
I can't say I liked any of the characters in this. I found them all pretty annoying.
The majority of the book was pretty dull for me unfortunately. The only bit I found interesting was the end, but it felt like it took forever to get there!
I don't think I'll bother with book two.
January 7, 2015
I did't really care for any of the couples, think that both Kyle and EJ can do better. I was all set to not bother with the next book until the end of this one. I have to know who died and know what/how much the tornado destroyed.
December 12, 2013
loved loved loved the book but really that's how we are going to end it!!!!!
February 18, 2018
Omg the reviews pulled my ass right in. I was not even feeling the sample of this book because for one it is written in third person. I HATE books written in third person. HATE. I just can’t connect with the characters that way. But all the damn reviews kept saying it was wonderful and they kept talking about the cliffhanger. Usually I don’t care for cliffhangers either but the second book is already out so I figured why not? I want to see what everyone is talking about. I want that shock factor.
This is a story that follows 5 young teenagers so you get 5 different POV which is a lot and can be confusing. When I first started reading I had so many damn notes on who was who and what was happening. But after a few chapters it was pretty easy to follow along.
I liked it but I didn’t like it. The first 80% of the book had me kind of bored. I was just trying to get through it. Then it started to pick up and started holding my attention. You could definitely tell it was YA. A lot of petty issues and lost communication. I didn’t connect a lot with the characters because like I said, it’s written in third person.
I did not like Coop. He’s a guy who had his chance and blew it and I just feel like he needs to move along now. Kyle and Cami were ok. Nothing too special and didn’t interest me as much. The only reason why I gave it 3 stars was because of Hayden and EJ. I liked them and I will continue because of that damn cliffhanger and I need to see what happens with Hayden and EJ. I have to see who it was. My luck it’s one of the characters I like and then I’ll be mad.
This is a story that follows 5 young teenagers so you get 5 different POV which is a lot and can be confusing. When I first started reading I had so many damn notes on who was who and what was happening. But after a few chapters it was pretty easy to follow along.
I liked it but I didn’t like it. The first 80% of the book had me kind of bored. I was just trying to get through it. Then it started to pick up and started holding my attention. You could definitely tell it was YA. A lot of petty issues and lost communication. I didn’t connect a lot with the characters because like I said, it’s written in third person.
I did not like Coop. He’s a guy who had his chance and blew it and I just feel like he needs to move along now. Kyle and Cami were ok. Nothing too special and didn’t interest me as much. The only reason why I gave it 3 stars was because of Hayden and EJ. I liked them and I will continue because of that damn cliffhanger and I need to see what happens with Hayden and EJ. I have to see who it was. My luck it’s one of the characters I like and then I’ll be mad.
February 13, 2015
**ARC gifted from authors in exchange for honest review**
As a girl born and raised in Kansas, I’m all too familiar with the likes of tornadoes and storm warnings. When you live in the epicenter of Tornado Alley all your life, you know the warning signs. The weird color of the sky, the balmy temperature, the eerily still air – the calm before the storm. Tornadoes still to this day scare the ever living bejesus out of me. The second those tornado sirens start blaring, I’m sprinting to the basement like a bat out of hell. So, forgive me when I say this is a new feeling to me. What feeling? Oh, I’m glad you asked! The feeling of embracing and eagerly anticipating a storm you know will leave behind a path of destruction – because that’s exactly what I did.
This is one storm warning I welcomed with open arms.
Storm Warning delves into the world of five teenagers from Camulet County in Oklahoma – 3 from the dirt road, small town side and 2 from the suburban, city side. Here’s your easy peasy background on them:
Country Folk
Kyle Mason – Recently graduated high school with a football scholarship to OSU, helps out his family business, Mason Landscaping.
Ella Jane (EJ) Mason – Kyle’s sixteen-year-old little sister, sweet with a side of sass, harboring a crush on her brother’s best friend.
Brantley (Coop) Cooper – High school senior, Kyle’s best friend, loves racing dirt bikes, comes from a long line of family farmers.
City Folk
Hayden Prescott – High school senior, arrogant, lacrosse player, drives a Bentley, comes from money.
Cameron (Cami) Nickelson – High school senior, pageant queen since she could walk, spoiled, also comes from money.
There are your five main characters, and yes, you live inside the head of each of them. When I found out this book was going to be from all five POVs, I was nervous. Don’t get me wrong, Elizabeth Lee and Caisey Quinn are unbelievable authors, but I was worried it would seem overwhelming or confusing. When someone’s POV popped up, I didn’t want to have to go back and think, “Okay, now where did we leave off with him/her?” Not once did I have to do that. The storylines of these five characters fused together so perfectly, and I’m actually glad that we got inside all of their heads right out of the gate. It gave me a way to feel connected to each of them, and in turn, none of them got pushed into the shadows. It’s rare to have a novel contain five main characters, but Elizabeth and Caisey did it brilliantly. The writing is wonderful, and if I didn’t know it was written by two authors, there would have been no way I ever would have suspected it. Elizabeth and Caisey seamlessly transition not only between five different characters’ POVs, but also between their own writing.
Now, I do have one issue...and it’s kind of a biggie. I don’t like Hayden. THERE. I SAID IT. While he earned a few brownie points within the last 15-20 percent of the book, it didn’t earn him enough to have me rooting for him... or the relationship he was in. His arrogance and entitlement grinded my gears from the get go, and I just never could warm up to him. Coop, however, had me hook, line and sinker. (Excuse me for a second while I fan myself...) His laid back, hardworking, country boy attitude was refreshing and incredibly genuine. He’s like a glass of sweet tea on a hot, summer day. The sacrifices he was willing to make for his family made my heart swell and I’m pretty sure made me fall in love with him all over again. He’s just…perfect. You know those cartoon characters that get hearts in place of their eyes when they look at someone they’re swooning over? That was me. My eyeballs are now hearts. I’m sure there’s probably some kind of surgery to fix it; I’ll deal with that later. So, as no surprise – I have firmly planted my cowgirl boots on the side of the fence labeled TEAM COOP!! Country boys for the win.
Storm Warning is the first book in the series, and there IS a cliffhanger. A HUGE ONE. If I didn’t love Elizabeth and Caisey so much, I’d probably be harassing them with emails, texts, and tweets about how upset I am with them for doing this to me! Who am I kidding, I’ll probably still do that. There is a silver lining though – the second book is being released THIS SPRING!! That means I only have to hang onto this cliff for a few more months...eh, I needed to work on my upper body strength anyway ;)
If you’re a fan of either Elizabeth Lee or Caisey Quinn, there is no doubt in my mind that you will love them even more as a duo. I’ve been fortunate enough to see both of their writing careers from the very beginning, and they continue to amaze me with their constant progress. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go pack my “survival kit” in preparation for Path of Destruction – I have a feeling things are about to get messy.
As a girl born and raised in Kansas, I’m all too familiar with the likes of tornadoes and storm warnings. When you live in the epicenter of Tornado Alley all your life, you know the warning signs. The weird color of the sky, the balmy temperature, the eerily still air – the calm before the storm. Tornadoes still to this day scare the ever living bejesus out of me. The second those tornado sirens start blaring, I’m sprinting to the basement like a bat out of hell. So, forgive me when I say this is a new feeling to me. What feeling? Oh, I’m glad you asked! The feeling of embracing and eagerly anticipating a storm you know will leave behind a path of destruction – because that’s exactly what I did.
This is one storm warning I welcomed with open arms.
Storm Warning delves into the world of five teenagers from Camulet County in Oklahoma – 3 from the dirt road, small town side and 2 from the suburban, city side. Here’s your easy peasy background on them:
Country Folk
Kyle Mason – Recently graduated high school with a football scholarship to OSU, helps out his family business, Mason Landscaping.
Ella Jane (EJ) Mason – Kyle’s sixteen-year-old little sister, sweet with a side of sass, harboring a crush on her brother’s best friend.
Brantley (Coop) Cooper – High school senior, Kyle’s best friend, loves racing dirt bikes, comes from a long line of family farmers.
City Folk
Hayden Prescott – High school senior, arrogant, lacrosse player, drives a Bentley, comes from money.
Cameron (Cami) Nickelson – High school senior, pageant queen since she could walk, spoiled, also comes from money.
There are your five main characters, and yes, you live inside the head of each of them. When I found out this book was going to be from all five POVs, I was nervous. Don’t get me wrong, Elizabeth Lee and Caisey Quinn are unbelievable authors, but I was worried it would seem overwhelming or confusing. When someone’s POV popped up, I didn’t want to have to go back and think, “Okay, now where did we leave off with him/her?” Not once did I have to do that. The storylines of these five characters fused together so perfectly, and I’m actually glad that we got inside all of their heads right out of the gate. It gave me a way to feel connected to each of them, and in turn, none of them got pushed into the shadows. It’s rare to have a novel contain five main characters, but Elizabeth and Caisey did it brilliantly. The writing is wonderful, and if I didn’t know it was written by two authors, there would have been no way I ever would have suspected it. Elizabeth and Caisey seamlessly transition not only between five different characters’ POVs, but also between their own writing.
Now, I do have one issue...and it’s kind of a biggie. I don’t like Hayden. THERE. I SAID IT. While he earned a few brownie points within the last 15-20 percent of the book, it didn’t earn him enough to have me rooting for him... or the relationship he was in. His arrogance and entitlement grinded my gears from the get go, and I just never could warm up to him. Coop, however, had me hook, line and sinker. (Excuse me for a second while I fan myself...) His laid back, hardworking, country boy attitude was refreshing and incredibly genuine. He’s like a glass of sweet tea on a hot, summer day. The sacrifices he was willing to make for his family made my heart swell and I’m pretty sure made me fall in love with him all over again. He’s just…perfect. You know those cartoon characters that get hearts in place of their eyes when they look at someone they’re swooning over? That was me. My eyeballs are now hearts. I’m sure there’s probably some kind of surgery to fix it; I’ll deal with that later. So, as no surprise – I have firmly planted my cowgirl boots on the side of the fence labeled TEAM COOP!! Country boys for the win.
Storm Warning is the first book in the series, and there IS a cliffhanger. A HUGE ONE. If I didn’t love Elizabeth and Caisey so much, I’d probably be harassing them with emails, texts, and tweets about how upset I am with them for doing this to me! Who am I kidding, I’ll probably still do that. There is a silver lining though – the second book is being released THIS SPRING!! That means I only have to hang onto this cliff for a few more months...eh, I needed to work on my upper body strength anyway ;)
If you’re a fan of either Elizabeth Lee or Caisey Quinn, there is no doubt in my mind that you will love them even more as a duo. I’ve been fortunate enough to see both of their writing careers from the very beginning, and they continue to amaze me with their constant progress. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go pack my “survival kit” in preparation for Path of Destruction – I have a feeling things are about to get messy.
December 11, 2013
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
You never know what kind of storm will be brewing!
I just don’t know where to start. This book was all over the place, but in a really good way! This is one of the reasons I read. This book is an absolute gem that deserves to be on everyone’s TBR. This book is follows the lives of 5 teenagers, who all become connected to each other because of one tiny town called Hope’s Grove, Oklahoma. There is a storm brewing that none of them will be ready for.
In this book we meet Kyle Mason, the football hero, who is getting ready to go off to college to play football for Oklahoma State University. After and unfortunate turn of events, he now finds himself the ‘man’ of the family. He has to now juggle going to Stillwater for summer football practice during the week and coming home on weekends to help his mom and sister, Ella Jane run their landscaping business and do a job for a rich family in Summit Bluffs.
Enter Ella Jane, Kyle’s innocent and gorgeous younger sister. She is devastated by the event that happens in her family and has lost some faith in men. She feels alone because her best friend is moving and her brother is going off to college, despite all of that her mom needs her now more than ever. She also has the biggest crush on her brother’s best friend Coop, or Brantley Cooper.
Brantley Cooper, or Coop as he is referred to by everyone is Kyle’s best friend and he secretly loves Ella Jane. He’s ready to make his move on her since Kyle is getting ready to move away for school. Coop is the epitome of loyal and doesn’t want to mess up with his friendship with Kyle by putting the moves on Ella Jane. So he takes things very slow and they have a beautiful moment that is interrupted by his own guilty feelings.
Meanwhile, in the next town Summit Bluffs…
Cameron Michelson is your typical mean girl. Filthy rich and all set to go on a tropical vacation with her mom. She breaks up with her ‘boyfriend’ Hayden so that they can each have ‘free’ summers before they start their senior years. She gets some unexpected news and now has to spend the summer in Summit Bluffs. Now she must stay home and make sure the landscaper is doing his job.
Rich boy Hayden Prescott is your typical bad boy. He doesn’t care about the consequences of his actions and does whatever he wants. His parents finally get fed up with him and send him to Hope’s Grove to live with his grandparents for a summer of hard work with Mason Landscaping Service. He is devastated until he meets Ella Jane.
I really enjoyed this story. I was one of my favorite reads of this year. I know some people don’t like love triangles, but I don’t mind them at all. The Ella Jane, Coop and Hayden triangle will have you screaming at your E-reader! I know I was! There were so many beautiful scenes and the making of two great love stories. All of the characters are well developed and the book has lots of substance but you will want to read it all. No skimming here.
The ‘Storm Warnings’ that we read in the book are perfect forecasts of what is to come. The last few chapters had me GLUED TO THE BOOK!!!! This is brilliantly written book, but I must warn you….HOLY CLIFFANGER CENTRAL BATMAN! Who..what…how..when…where…crickets..
Despite this devastating cliffhanger, this book gets a certified Nerd Alert A+!
You never know what kind of storm will be brewing!
I just don’t know where to start. This book was all over the place, but in a really good way! This is one of the reasons I read. This book is an absolute gem that deserves to be on everyone’s TBR. This book is follows the lives of 5 teenagers, who all become connected to each other because of one tiny town called Hope’s Grove, Oklahoma. There is a storm brewing that none of them will be ready for.
In this book we meet Kyle Mason, the football hero, who is getting ready to go off to college to play football for Oklahoma State University. After and unfortunate turn of events, he now finds himself the ‘man’ of the family. He has to now juggle going to Stillwater for summer football practice during the week and coming home on weekends to help his mom and sister, Ella Jane run their landscaping business and do a job for a rich family in Summit Bluffs.
Enter Ella Jane, Kyle’s innocent and gorgeous younger sister. She is devastated by the event that happens in her family and has lost some faith in men. She feels alone because her best friend is moving and her brother is going off to college, despite all of that her mom needs her now more than ever. She also has the biggest crush on her brother’s best friend Coop, or Brantley Cooper.
Brantley Cooper, or Coop as he is referred to by everyone is Kyle’s best friend and he secretly loves Ella Jane. He’s ready to make his move on her since Kyle is getting ready to move away for school. Coop is the epitome of loyal and doesn’t want to mess up with his friendship with Kyle by putting the moves on Ella Jane. So he takes things very slow and they have a beautiful moment that is interrupted by his own guilty feelings.
Meanwhile, in the next town Summit Bluffs…
Cameron Michelson is your typical mean girl. Filthy rich and all set to go on a tropical vacation with her mom. She breaks up with her ‘boyfriend’ Hayden so that they can each have ‘free’ summers before they start their senior years. She gets some unexpected news and now has to spend the summer in Summit Bluffs. Now she must stay home and make sure the landscaper is doing his job.
Rich boy Hayden Prescott is your typical bad boy. He doesn’t care about the consequences of his actions and does whatever he wants. His parents finally get fed up with him and send him to Hope’s Grove to live with his grandparents for a summer of hard work with Mason Landscaping Service. He is devastated until he meets Ella Jane.
I really enjoyed this story. I was one of my favorite reads of this year. I know some people don’t like love triangles, but I don’t mind them at all. The Ella Jane, Coop and Hayden triangle will have you screaming at your E-reader! I know I was! There were so many beautiful scenes and the making of two great love stories. All of the characters are well developed and the book has lots of substance but you will want to read it all. No skimming here.
The ‘Storm Warnings’ that we read in the book are perfect forecasts of what is to come. The last few chapters had me GLUED TO THE BOOK!!!! This is brilliantly written book, but I must warn you….HOLY CLIFFANGER CENTRAL BATMAN! Who..what…how..when…where…crickets..
Despite this devastating cliffhanger, this book gets a certified Nerd Alert A+!
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