Things I Can't Forget

Mar 21, 2013 Donna {Book Passion for Life} rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-contemporary-romance, arc, loaned, favorites

A chance to win Things I Can't Forget is happening now on my blog; 2 x winners and it's international. Ends March 28th 2013. http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...

"He grins, and looks around. "Are you King Crab Kate?" I cover my mouth with a hand. " Oh my gosh - you're Miniature Poodle Matt!"

I adore Miranda's work! Catching Jordan and Stealing Parker were fantastic reads, which I rated 4 stars each, however, Things I Can't Forget gets a massive 5 star rating from me. Third time's the charm rig...more

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Mar 02, 2013 Giselle rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, own, contemporary

Being a big fan of Miranda's books since I read and fell in love with Catching Jordan I was only a little weary when I was told this one involved some religion-which I usually quickly turn away from in books. I must say, however, that as usual, Miranda used her magic and turned this into an immensely sweet read, making the religion aspect a simple fact of the story like anything else. Every protagonist has passions and dreams that we get to see as a part of them, this is how religion plays a par...more Being a big fan of Miranda's books since I read and fell in love with Catching Jordan I was only a little weary when I was told this one involved some religion-which I usually quickly turn away from in books. I must say, however, that as usual, Miranda used her magic and turned this into an immensely sweet read, making the religion aspect a simple fact of the story like anything else. Every protagonist has passions and dreams that we get to see as a part of them, this is how religion plays a part in this novel and nothing else. It's not preached or forced, it's just a part of Kate's upbringing. It is what makes her who she is.

As for liking who she is, though, it is not always easy. Kate comes off as a prude and judgmental bitch. She makes it very difficult for others to approach her, let alone understand her. But she does grow a lot throughout the book where she begins to understand her friends a little more--especially her best friend who she's on the outs with--as well and accept that not everyone shares her views. Even though some times I wanted to slap her senseless, I kind of felt bad for her as well; for her closed up personality, the way she shuts herself off from others, using her faith as a shield. Luckily she discovers new friendship and even love that opens her up a bit. She begins to accept that not everyone sees and believes the same way, and that is still ok!

The first of these friendships and main secondary character is Parker from the previous companion, Stealing Parker. While you don't need to have read the others to get the full meaning of this novel, it's great to see our old beloved characters back. Characters that we grew to love, we saw their romance bloom and come to life, are now a super cute couple in this novel. We're also introduced to a new character and love interest, Matt. Matt is in a frat in college, he respects religion but he doesn't get buckled down by his faith like Kate, so the relationship is a little rocky for a while. Like usual in Miranda's books, the chemistry that exists between thees two made my heart soar. They were a perfectly imperfect pair!

Love, friendship, heartbreak, everything a fun summer at camp can bring, Things I Can't Forget has! Even those who are weary of the religion aspect in the mix shouldn't worry. We're made to understand it's meaning in the book, it becomes part of Kate, like any other character trait. These books are a must read for anyone who calls themselves a fan of contemporary reads!

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An advance copy was provided by the publisher for review.

For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads

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Apr 13, 2013 Lisa O. rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebook, swoooooon, ya-lit, hot-musicians

4.5 stars.

I'm going to start by stressing that I am not religious. Not at all. For this reason, I tend to be annoyed by books that push religion at me or that in any way promote, display, depict... you got the gist.
So that I rated it so high in itself speaks volumes.

The story is about holier-than-thou Kate, who goes to work as a counselor in a Christian camp during the summer. She's just lost her best friend Emily, who's been kicked out of the house after they discovered she got an abortion. K...more 4.5 stars.

I'm going to start by stressing that I am not religious. Not at all. For this reason, I tend to be annoyed by books that push religion at me or that in any way promote, display, depict... you got the gist.
So that I rated it so high in itself speaks volumes.

The story is about holier-than-thou Kate, who goes to work as a counselor in a Christian camp during the summer. She's just lost her best friend Emily, who's been kicked out of the house after they discovered she got an abortion. Kate helped her getting it and her sense of guilt, as a friend and as a Christian, is overwhelming. Her beliefs, self righteousness, conception of sin and of what's right or wrong are strong and very much black and white.

For a good part of the book - and for someone maybe for the totality of it - Kate is not a character that one can easily like. She's judgmental, her vision of the world is restricted to her little community, so much so that she got on my nerves almost immediately. Take Parker, take Will, and - le sigh - take Matt. These are likable characters, normal, reasonable, good kids, good at heart not only because they're good Christians (in fact, if you remember Parker from the previous book, you know she messed up quite a lot).

However, what really stands out here and makes this book an almost five star read for me, is the depth of Kate's spiritual growth. There are some big topics tackled in this book and I have to say, they are really well explored. Through Kate's eyes, and with the help of some other characters - her dad's speech, in particular - we see her questioning what she believes and striving to understand what it is that she really believes versus what's been fed to her. Once again, despite me not sharing ANY of the beliefs in this book, I though it was really well made.
Add to that the fact that Kenneally writes some amazing romance and you got yourself a great contemporary YA piece of lit.

Now, I wish the book had ended differently. I wish Kate's spiritual evolution had taken one step further and I wish she's freed herself of all - what I consider - misconceptions, but that probably wouldn't have been in line with Kate's personality and it's just wishful thinking on my part.

I say if you've liked her previous books you really need to read this 'cause it's probably her best book so far. (less)

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Feb 07, 2013 Blythe rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013-reads, almost-fell-asleep, disappointments, hooray-for-masochism, highly-anticipating-2013, i-totally-saw-that-coming, judge-a-book-by-the-cover, meh, snark-bait-ooh-ah-ah, swoooon, to-review

I was really hoping the main character would be stabbed out of nowhere on the last page.

She wasn't.

I'm upset.

Review to come.

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Mar 19, 2013 Jennifer rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: march-releases, challenge-contemporary

Interview & Giveaway on the blog!
http://somelikeitparanormall.blogspot...

Kate helped her best friend through something really difficult. It was something Kate didn't believe in so now she just can't move on. Her friend is trying to move on and Kate continues bringing up all the guilt so no one can move on. They get in a big fight. Kate has to work at a summer camp without her. Kate flashes back to the emotional event throughout the book. It weighs heavily on her mind.

Kate is very hard to rel...more Interview & Giveaway on the blog!
http://somelikeitparanormall.blogspot...

Kate helped her best friend through something really difficult. It was something Kate didn't believe in so now she just can't move on. Her friend is trying to move on and Kate continues bringing up all the guilt so no one can move on. They get in a big fight. Kate has to work at a summer camp without her. Kate flashes back to the emotional event throughout the book. It weighs heavily on her mind.

Kate is very hard to relate to at first. She is trapped in her own little box and when people don't fit into it she gets angry or tells them off. Like when they arrive at camp and everyone sleeps in the same cabin the first night since they don't have kids yet, instead of joining in the sleepover, Kate freaks out and says everyone will get pregnant and she will sleep in her own cabin alone.

Then she runs into fellow camp counselor, Miniature Poodle Matt! Matt is so adorable. At first I was a little surprised at how well he took to Kate but they have a special history. They first kissed at the summer camp when they were little and it meant so much to Matt to find someone who accepted him. All these years later and they found each other again. Kate has so much guilt over her best friend that she is often pushing Matt away. She realizes now how when you really like someone it is hard to not want to do everything with them and go all the way.

Kate begins questioning her beliefs and I actually began crying for her. Even though I don't share her beliefs I can understand how it is so hard to stick to what you want/need/believe when everyone else is different and changing. She doesn't want to lose Matt but she just can't fully give up what she believes in. Matt is very patent and understanding. Kate does learn to open up and except others while still keeping her own beliefs.

I loved that Parker and Will were also camp counselors and such a huge part of the book. It was great to get to see their relationship develop even further and they become great friends for Kate. Kate is really judgmental to Parker at first but eventually they find common ground and help each other out. Jordan and Sam also make a small guest appearance. Like all Miranda Kennealy's books, it is a huge emotional journey to friendship, love, and finding yourself that is very relatable. I highly recommend all her books! If you're a bit weary of the religious aspects, like I was, I still recommend giving it a try or at least starting with Catching Jordan and working your way through! Such great reads!

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"Why did y'all bring so much stuff?" yells Charles, a little boy. I can already tell he'll be a handful.
"Hey, hey," Matt says to Charles. "You never say things like that to a lady. The reason they have so much stuff is so they have all the outfits they need to look beautiful every day."
"Awww," says Isabella, a girl with blond curls. On the inside, I'm saying awww too.
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*I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*(less)

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Apr 24, 2013 Sashana rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: wild-blue-yonder, ebooks-owned, realistic-fiction

This book was a conundrum and pure confusion. The first two books in the series were about spunky girls who played sports so, naturally, I expected this book to have a similar theme. Imagine my complete shock when instead of reading a sports themed book I got to read about some overly annoying religious girl.

I get the message that the author was trying to make: it's okay to have religious morals and be young. It's a difficult and admirable thing to try to attain for anyone, let alone young adul...more

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Mar 08, 2013 Eva rated it 5 of 5 stars

Earlier this year, I devoured Catching Jordan and Stealing Parker . For me, both of the first two books in the Hundred Oaks sereis by Miranda Kennealy were perfect -- raw with teenage vulnerability, true, sweet and just plain beautiful not only in their plots but also in their words. Without even reading the premise of Things I Can't Forget, I pre-ordered it and couldn't wait to read it. However, when I read the first chapter, I was worried. I immediately felt like Kate was too harsh, too j...more

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Apr 17, 2013 Jord¥n rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, chic-lit, disappointed

Yup, just as I predicted, not really sport related like the previous books. If the next book is as religious as this one was, I'm done with her books.

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May 14, 2013 Suz rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-read-in-2013

Things I Can't Forget is one of those young adult romance novels, that deals with heavy issues that every girl faces in such a realistic and relatable way. Kennally does a wonderful job at bringing these issues to light, in such a way that readers are able to connect with the characters and the stories they have to tell. This novel, is a little bit different from her prior two novels. There are deeper issues and new territory to explore, but she does it in such a way that readers won't want to...more

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Mar 19, 2013 Haley ~ YA-Aholic rated it 3 of 5 stars

Things I Can't Forget was a pretty good read, I enjoyed the romance, there was a nice variety of characters, but what I really loved was the strong showing of character development with our main character Kate.

Although I personally enjoyed Things I Can't Forget, it is not a read that is for everyone. If you are someone that does not like to read anything with any type of religion involved, then this is a pass for you. Going into Things I Can't Forget you really have to keep an open mind. Kate i...more

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Mar 26, 2013 Pixie/PageTurners(Amber) C. rated it 4 of 5 stars

I've enjoyed the first two books in the Hundred Series, but Things I Can't Forget is my new favorite of the series. Kate's journey through the book looks at her faith and has her questioning if God is punishing her for her past choices. I appreciated that Kate's story is more about internal conflicts and dealing with her faith, it gave the story more depth and it really pulled me in.

Kate and her best friend, Emily, used to attend Cumberland Creek summer camp when they were kids and now that they...more I've enjoyed the first two books in the Hundred Series, but Things I Can't Forget is my new favorite of the series. Kate's journey through the book looks at her faith and has her questioning if God is punishing her for her past choices. I appreciated that Kate's story is more about internal conflicts and dealing with her faith, it gave the story more depth and it really pulled me in.

Kate and her best friend, Emily, used to attend Cumberland Creek summer camp when they were kids and now that they are old enough, they thought it be cool to be counselors. But because of a choice Emily made earlier in the year, Kate and Emily's relationship has fallen apart and Kate becomes a counselor by herself. This course of action has made Kate question what she has been told to believe and what she actually believes. Is being a supportive friend a bad choice if it goes against your beliefs?

Matt and old camp friend is also the camp lifeguard this year. That spark from years ago is still there, but Kate struggles with what is Christian behavior. Matt is very supportive of her choices - sometimes he doesn't understand them, but he does go along with them. One thing I really enjoy about this series is the boys (love interest or friends) in the story line. They are very caring and supportive the way a boyfriend should be. Very appropriate YA relationships.

Parker (from Stealing Parker) is the camp counselor that replaced Emily. Parker has a bit of a bad girl reputation, according to Kate, but when a friend tells Kate to cut Parker some slack, Kate struggles at first but finally gives in and gives Parker a chance. Through Kate's struggle with faith, Parker and Kate grow closer as they realize they have more in common than Kate thought and a friendship grows in this unlikely pairing.

Over the summer Kate will learn that your journey with God is personal, your beliefs are personal and that you choose your own path. This is the part of the story that really hooked me. I adored her personal struggle with finding out what exactly she believed and what felt right to her.

Miranda Kenneally writing is fresh and exciting. It has a very youthful natural feel to it - organic even. It really grabs the reader and draws you into the personal struggles of the protagonist. I can't wait to find out what has happens next in Racing Savannah.
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Mar 13, 2013 Hannah rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Mar 31, 2013 Christine rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, blog-tour, annoying-mc, the-meh-shelf

My thoughts on Things I Can't Forget is kind of all over the place. I've enjoyed all the author's books, especially Catching Jordan. I enjoyed Things I Can't Forget, but not as much as the first two books. The romance was there - the best part of Miranda Kenneally's novels, but, as Ariana said here, her novels are "getting less sporty and more religious." And, personally, I'm not sure how I feel about that. It's really a personal preference thing - I tend to stay away from religious-heavy novels...more

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Feb 26, 2013 Once Upon rated it 4 of 5 stars

Another great book by Miranda Kenneally - Review will be posted closer to release date - PRE_ORDER this book, you will love it! Parker and even Jordan are around in Things I Can't Forget.

Updated 2/26/13: Once again Miranda Kenneally gives us a companion novel to follow in the successful footsteps of Catching Jordan and Stealing Parker. You basically know going in to read that this will be another great book by Miranda. Miranda's writing just pulls you in like a moth to a flame. Its highly addic...more Another great book by Miranda Kenneally - Review will be posted closer to release date - PRE_ORDER this book, you will love it! Parker and even Jordan are around in Things I Can't Forget.

Updated 2/26/13: Once again Miranda Kenneally gives us a companion novel to follow in the successful footsteps of Catching Jordan and Stealing Parker. You basically know going in to read that this will be another great book by Miranda. Miranda's writing just pulls you in like a moth to a flame. Its highly addicting and entertaining.

Things I Can't Forget follows the story of Kate. This is Kate's last summer before college and she signed up to be a church camp counselor. This is the first book from Miranda that the main character is not into some kind of sport. Kate is just your good church girl that believes and follows her faith. So of course being considered such a good girl, you don't really get called into the popular cliques. So when Kate frowns upon at what other counselors do while working with her that summer, they begins to have rifts with her about her Christian ways. Kate wont even let her crush sleep inside the same cabin, she makes the poor guy sleep outside on the floor. Matt though has a way to get under her skin and little by little he breaks down Kate's walls somewhat. He respects her though, so its not like he will make her do something against her beliefs. Matt along with the others just feel she needs to loosen up some. So how will Kate's summer go as one of Cumberland Creek's summer camp counselors? What will she come to terms with regarding her old best friend and the secret she keeps locked up? Will Matt succeed in getting the girl? Only one way to find out all these questions and its reading the novel when it publishes.

Miranda created a very sweet refreshing story to read. Its a bit heavy on the religion but you can get passed it and enjoy the romance that is blossoming. Miranda treats fans of Jordan and Parker, by bringing them back in this novel. One of my favorite parts is the friendship that just happens between Jordan and Kate. Oh and did I mention Matt, another great male lead that Miranda created. He is definitely on the swoon-worthy top 100 list. So if your looking for love, friendship and adventure pick up a copy. (less)

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Mar 18, 2013 Juhina rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013, raincoast, blog-tour, review-books, own, my-arcs, signed-books

4.5/5 stars

Things I Can't Forget was such a pleasant read. I have read Kenneally two previous books in this companion series and enjoyed them, but I have to say that Things I Can't Forget is my favorite so far. I read it in a couple of hours and just wanted more! I seriously need more of these amazing companion novels. I think this is a great direction for contemporaries. I am NOT for contemporary series, but companions? they are perfect, especially when you get to see the main characters of the...more 4.5/5 stars

Things I Can't Forget was such a pleasant read. I have read Kenneally two previous books in this companion series and enjoyed them, but I have to say that Things I Can't Forget is my favorite so far. I read it in a couple of hours and just wanted more! I seriously need more of these amazing companion novels. I think this is a great direction for contemporaries. I am NOT for contemporary series, but companions? they are perfect, especially when you get to see the main characters of the previous books and actually learn new things about them that make you all happy for them!

Things I Can't Forget is centered around Kate, a girl who we only saw glimpses of in the previous books. She is religious, in a big way, to the point that anyone who doesn't share her beliefs is called a sinner or thought of as a lost soul or something. I did NOT enjoy how judgmental Kate was at the beginning. I mean, I come from a religious background, but I have friends from different religions and beliefs and I never try to preach about on whether they are living a wrong life or something. I thought that was also part of her religion? being accepting of different people? but anyways, the way Kate internally talked about this with herself made her looks so naive and innocent. She REALLY had no idea how judgmental she was! So I gave her some leeway.

Soon enough, even though it was one tiny step at a time, she started to become more likable, more accepting. Of course with the help of Matt, who is SO adorable and totally crush worthy, and Parker & Will from Stealing Parker! Let's backtrack and talk about Matt, he is 18 years old, Kate is 17. They have the cutest history together when they went to the same summer camp. Now, they are camp counselors and have definitely rekindled feelings from their first kiss when they were preteens (haha). I think Matt was so very understanding and supportive of Kate, he didn't try to change her or push her to do anything she wasn't comfortable with. He IS a jokester, but he never took it over the top which usually induces an eye roll. As for Parker, I loved how close they grew together, definitely a great friendship there! Of course Kate holds a secret that she believes god will make her pay for, I felt really sad for her, how lost she feels and the broken friendship she has with her childhood friend. I know this may seem like too much religion for some of you guys, but it REALLY isn't like that. It is just about a person trying to find her relationship with god, the people around her, and also with herself. It has a very cute romance and I would recommend it to all contemporary fans, especially fans of the Hundred Oaks series itself! (less)

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Mar 14, 2013 Molli (at Once Upon a Prologue) added it

Shelves: young-adult-contemporary, read-in-2013, see-molli-get-stabby, the-gloves-gotta-come-off

I have a LOT of mixed feelings about this. On one hand, the romance was sweet, and I was glad to see Parker back! On the other, Kate was SUCH a judge mental hypocrite, and I wanted to stab her, repeatedly. So, there's that. Full review coming once I vent in draft form, then find a way to make sense of my thoughts.

Final Review:

I finished Things I Can't Forget last night, and I need to vent in order to get some things off my chest before I can actually begin to form my words and thoughts into a c...more I have a LOT of mixed feelings about this. On one hand, the romance was sweet, and I was glad to see Parker back! On the other, Kate was SUCH a judge mental hypocrite, and I wanted to stab her, repeatedly. So, there's that. Full review coming once I vent in draft form, then find a way to make sense of my thoughts.

Final Review:

I finished Things I Can't Forget last night, and I need to vent in order to get some things off my chest before I can actually begin to form my words and thoughts into a coherent review. Although normally I look forward to Miranda's books - I loved both Catching Jordan, and Stealing Parker, and even pre-ordered Things I Can't Forget, it's a total departure in some ways from her other books. Whereas before, both girls although they had their issues, Jordan and Parker were still both relatable, and lovable, in that even when they messed up, you (or at least I) wanted to buy them some chocolate and let them know it would be okay in the end, becuase you GOT them. They were those "everyman" characters, which really surprised me, because I wasn't sure I would identify with either of them, but I did - especially Parker.

Now we have Kate. I'm going to have to get on my soapbox for a minute or two here, so y'all may want to check back once I run out of steam, becuase this is gonna be honest, and not flattering or sugar coated. I don't relish these types of reviews, but the fact is, anything less wouldn't be honest. So behind the spoiler tag, there's rage. There's some cursing. Every time I tried to dial it back, I got mad all over again, so it stays.

(view spoiler)[Kate is a prudish, judgemental, panties-twisted-in-her-ass bitch. Kate is one of THOSE characters. Y'all know the kind. You want to push them off a cliff. You start hoping they'll choke on a waffle and die. Try as you might, you can't get behind them all the way.

Now look, I don't have a beef with religion. I pray, and I believe. I've gone to church, and ultimately decided it wasn't for me. I read the Bible sometimes, so although I am NO expert by any means on religion, I also have a foundation for it, and I respect it. I try to behave with kindness toward others, and I'm pretty darn tolerant of other religions and viewpoints, and opinions. But I can't STAND a judgemental hypocrit, and Kate is both of those things.

I get that her world view was small. And the book was about it widening. But oh my gosh. In the meantime, until we GOT to that? I wanted to choke the life out of her.

I was okay with the religion in Stealing Parker, because it MADE SENSE, and because it wasn't preach-y. I don't know about y'all, but when I feel like something - anything - is being shoved in my face, my natural response is to back away from it. It's why I won't read some over-hyped series *coughs* Mortal Instruments *coughs*. And I'm the same way with things I don't believe in. Religion is kinda touchy for me. Like I said, I believe, and I totally respect other's beliefs. But I DON'T want it rammed down my throat. And that's what Kate took every opportunity to do - reminding everyone they were sinning, and basically coming off as if she was so much better than everyone.

She shames EVERYONE at her summer camp for something - whether it's for being in a frat, having THE SEX, going to partys, or enjoying an occasional drink. Whatever the flaw, she finds one in everyone, usually shortly after meeting them. It's almost like she WANTS to find people's sins. Oh gosh. At first I thought I'd really like Kate, but after 75 pages of her ranting about what a sinner she is, and casting stones at others ONLY TO DO THE SAME THINGS, I knew that although I felt for her, and WANTED to like her, I'd never REALLY "love" her as a character.

That's right, ladies and gents. After bitching people out for hooking up, KATE DOES IT. She hooks up with Matt, and granted, they start dating and agree to be in a relationship, but this girl goes and PRAYS to God asking "please let me keep my hands off of him," then fools around with him - does everything but has sex. I wanted to slap her! Either have sex and do it right - condom and birth control - or DON'T, but damn, girl, stand for something! Her morals and convictions were SO important to her, but she threw them away easily enough when she was with Matt - she wavered back and forth and not being able to share a bed with him, but then the minute she was alone with him in her house, she stripped down and both gave and received oral sex. Those convictions? Yeah, nowhere to be found. They had their times together where she did everything BUT sex, but then SHE SHAMED HIM and made him feel guilty for what they'd done.

Look, I've been in a few relationships, and I GET wanting to wait. (I also get not being ABLE to wait.) It is difficult, especially when you're attracted to someone. But sending mixed signals isn't okay! It's also not fair to your boyfriend/girlfriend, OR to yourself. Make your decision and stick by it. I HATED Kate for how she treated Matt - she'd set boundaries, then go back on them, then shame him and make him feel guilty for what SHE okay'ed and let happen. I am NOT OKAY with that. (hide spoiler)]

Okay, I feel like I can breathe again now that I got some of that off my chest. Now, OTHER than Kate's character, I really DID like Things I Can't Forget. The characters are all wonderfully fleshed out, and they feel real, which is one of Miranda's strong suits. It was wonderful to see Parker again, and some other favorites, like Will, Sam, etc.

I also did like that we got to see various characters grow. We DO see Kate change some, as well as Parker start to take a chance and open up, which was awesome. Even some of the minor characters change over the summer, and I can't say how much I liked that! Character growth = I'm sold.

Overall, despite some huge issues I had with Things I Can't Forget, Miranda is still one of my favorite authors, because she writes very realistic characters, relationships, and situations. I would advise longtime fans of her books to give this one a try, though be prepared for a huge departure from her previous two books. I'm not sure what happened here, but in Racing Savannah, her next, I hope to see a return to form for Miranda. If not, I doubt I'll read her future books, because I have such incredibly mixed feelings on Things I Can't Forget. It's been a few weeks since I finished this book (at the time of writing this review) and I'm STILL mad about this book.

Bottom line? If you read this one, proceed with caution. (less)

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Dec 23, 2012 Heather rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-tour

This ARC review will be posted at my blog, The Flyleaf Review closer to the book's publication.

* Things I Can't Forget is the 3rd book in the Hundred Oaks Series. It is a companion novel to both Catching Jordan and Stealing Parker.You don't have to read either of those books before starting Things I Can't Forget, but I think you will get much more out of it if you do:)*

Like I mentioned in the above disclaimer, Things I Can't Forget is a companion novel to author Miranda Kenneally's first two boo...more

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Mar 07, 2013 Ambur rated it 5 of 5 stars

While Kate was very different from Parker (Stealing Parker) and Jordan (Catching Jordan), I still really liked her! I've already seen reviews that call her judgmental and they say that they didn't like her, and I'll agree that she was definitely judgmental, but it didn't stop me from enjoying her character or her story.

In fact, her being judgmental was one of those character flaws that made me enjoy her more, and while at times it had me wanting to rip my hair out or made me want to shake her, K...more While Kate was very different from Parker (Stealing Parker) and Jordan (Catching Jordan), I still really liked her! I've already seen reviews that call her judgmental and they say that they didn't like her, and I'll agree that she was definitely judgmental, but it didn't stop me from enjoying her character or her story.

In fact, her being judgmental was one of those character flaws that made me enjoy her more, and while at times it had me wanting to rip my hair out or made me want to shake her, Kate's judgey attitude made me sympathize with her....I sympathized with her because she had people telling her over and over that she was judgmental, but she didn't even realize she was doing it. Her background had instilled certain beliefs that she just assumed were the right ones. That made me want to give her a hug and a nice talking to (note, not a stern one :P). Once she realized she was doing it, and that she wasn't always right, she was open to accepting things that she hadn't before, and I loved that about her. It's always nice when people are willing to change. :)

Along with Kate's amazing growth throughout Things I Can't Forget, I loved the other characters. That was one of the best parts of this book. I loved getting to see characters from the previous to books pop up. Both Jordan and Parker appear in this one, and I really enjoyed their interactions with Kate. It makes me even more exited for future novels in this series where we'll get to see what the previous protagonists are up to! :D

I've already gushed about loving the fact that Parker and Harper are in this one, but I also just loved the friendship in Things I Can't Forget. I loved seeing Kate getting to know people once she gave them a chance, and I really enjoyed her relationship with Matt, both as just a friend and in a more romantic sense. They had amazing banter, and were so adorable together. :D

Brace yourselves...here comes the major gushing! I just thought this book was amazing! I loved every single moment of it. I loved Kate's growth. I loved the romance, the banter, and I really enjoyed the friendships. :) That's one of my favourite aspects of Miranda Kenneally's Hundred Oaks series...it's not just about the boys (although they are pretty great :P), it's about the friendships--both the friendships between the main character and her love interest, and their friendships with others. As I've mentioned before, I'm also absolutely loving that the characters from the earlier books are becoming so important in the newer ones!

Overall, I absolutely loved Things I Can't Forget! I'm excitedly awaiting all future books in the Hundred Oaks series because I absolutely adore Miranda Kenneally's writing style, and with each book I grow to love it (and her characters) more and more! :D(less)

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Mar 26, 2013 Rachel rated it 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this story of a summer love, overcoming regret and learning to understand others. Kate, with her faults in judgment and her constant thrust of her religious values, was easy to understand and watch her open her mind to new experiences.

I completely understand her thoughts of loneliness, feeling that now one remembers her from high school. Kate lost her only real friend, her best friend Emily, in an argument of mixed minds.

I personally don't feel that Kate should have regretted...more

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Mar 28, 2013 Jac (For Love and Books) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-adored

Oh. My. Goodness.

I am so incredibly swoony right now that I can't even think straight!!!

***
Every once in awhile a book comes along and tugs at your heart. It grabs you from page one, pulls you and just keeps you to the very end. Things I Can’t Forget by Miranda Kenneally was one of those books for me, in fact several days after I finished reading it’s still heavy on my mind. I can honestly say that this third book, a companion to Catching Jordan and Stealing Parker has secured a spot in my top t...more

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Mar 30, 2013 Angie rated it 3 of 5 stars

I jumped into this series on the 3rd book, and I wasn't sure I would care about these red-state teens and their Christian moral conflicts. But, when the cute boy you like likes you back, what's not to like? I think this series is meant to be eye-opening for kids whose parents have kept them in a bubble of other people just like themselves, and there are a lot of those bubbles out here in southern suburbia. I think it does succeed at this, besides just being a good teen read.

** Please support you...more

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Mar 15, 2013 Super Librarian rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: young-adult, read-in-2013

The latest in the Hundred Oaks series is another great novel. I can always count on Miranda Kenneally to write engaging stories with realistic, relatable characters (and swoon-worthy romance!). Many readers will be able to relate to Kate as she deals with aftermath of a difficult decision. I will be recommending this one to teen and adult patrons alike.

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May 23, 2013 HomeschoolGirl added it

Alrighty. Here it goes.

So, I must make this imminently clear: I did not finish this book. The writing style was just incohesive and awkward. First tense seemed a poor choice.

An example of this:

Ian and Brad just pulled their hobo packs out of the fire and are moving back to the picnic tables. Carlie turns hers over...(page 73, paperback edition)

I don't know if that seems nearly as awkward to read here as it is in the book, but I dunno, it was. Like, in one instance Kate was saying something a...more

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May 23, 2013 Rachel rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-2013

I should start out by saying I am not the target audience for this book, and if I had realized there was going to be a Christian theme to the story I never would have picked it up. Anytime the main girl talked about sin, God, and prayer I felt like I was entering an alternative universe. I still find it very hard to imagine that there are people who really think this stuff. I had to rate the book 3-stars, however, because beside the religious element, the story was nicely written and enjoyable.

T...more

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May 01, 2013 Sarah rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: best-of-the-best

As someone who grew up in church, was very active in her youth group and got serious about God at an early age, I can say Miranda hit the nail on the head with this book. I honestly felt like I could completely relate to the main character, though I think/hope I wasn't as judgmental as she was when I was 18.

I know people didn't like Kate because she was judgmental, but I think that was the whole point - she grew up in this church bubble, and then her experiences with Emily and then Matt, Parker...more

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May 01, 2013 Amanda Svensson rated it 4 of 5 stars

A lot of people seem to not like the main character and I guess I can see why, all tough I don't agree.

So yeah, there's kind of a lot about God in this book, but it wasn't the kind of stuffing it down your throat. It wasn't "read this so you can believe in God, too". It was kind of like a character in a book really liking, I don't know, football? And you don't. It worked.

And all though I didn't agree with the main character, Kate's, decisions most of the time it was still a good read. She made...more

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Apr 16, 2013 fennie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: chick-lit, young-adult, things-that-make-you-go-hmm

i'm not sure what it is about miranda kenneally books that makes me devour them, but they are like crack to me. i found myself reading in the wee hours of the morning again and i had thought i had gained some self-control in that matter...not so.

this was a really well-executed book. there is a lot that could be considered controversial (ie abortion, religion), but it was all handled so well. i could feel kate's struggles and her pain - her world was essentially rocked by what happened with emily...more

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Apr 13, 2013 Gabby rated it 5 of 5 stars

Ms.Kenneally has captured me in her web after reading the first book in this series. (Catching Jordan) Now, this is the third book and she has not failed to impress me.

This book brings a unique story line to this series. It does that by bringing in conflicts we’ve seen in her past books and ones we’ve yet to see in this series. Another, amazing aspect of this book is that she brings the characters we’ve grown to love back out in this book and their paths intertwine with the new, unique character...more

Ms.Kenneally has captured me in her web after reading the first book in this series. (Catching Jordan) Now, this is the third book and she has not failed to impress me.

This book brings a unique story line to this series. It does that by bringing in conflicts we’ve seen in her past books and ones we’ve yet to see in this series. Another, amazing aspect of this book is that she brings the characters we’ve grown to love back out in this book and their paths intertwine with the new, unique characters. I have to say watching the previous characters fall in love in past books and coming back in this story really shows how strong their relationships have proven to be. I myself know that this makes me so happy because as a reader I always wonder what happens to the characters in the future and seeing them come back just makes my heart pound faster.

As for the new characters, Ms. Kenneally has never failed to bring some amazing characters to the story. Kate, the main character, is a very strong believer in church and following the bible, but because of this she has grown to be very judgmental towards other people who don’t follow the bible and God like she does. Putting that aside for now, she decides to go to camp where a lot of things happen and more unique characters come into her life. Matt is the sweetest guy you will ever meet! Matt is just a very likeable, funny character. Matt really brought out the best in Kate and seeing them flirt with each other and just have fun was so amazing and sometimes even funny to read about.

Throughout this story, the characters were just were so freaking funny. I’m telling you guys I was dying laughing sometimes. This book will not fail to make you laugh. Don’t even get me started on how hard I am fan girling over Kate and Matt!!! Don’t get me wrong there is also moments when you want to go straight in that book and slap some of these characters as well. Don’t get me started on two characters, Emily and Andrea. Emily was a total.. let me put this in nice terms she was so mean to Kate. I mean Kate wasn’t the nicest either, but she was there for Emily. I think that Emily was really mean to her, but in the end all best friends have arguments and eventually get over it because you can’t stand to be apart from them. Now Andrea, ugh she was just mean to be mean because she was jealous of Kate!

The ending you guys will shock you to pieces and make your heart pound in awe! I’m not kidding I was like OMG! And I then started laughing. (You’ll see what I’m talking about!)

Let me tell you guys something, this book is amazing and so much more! I loved it times a million. (Not kidding!) I have loved this series since I read the first book and every time I’ve read the next one and I’ve loved it more than the one before because Miranda Kenneally never fails to impress me!

If you haven’t read any of the books in this series I cannot stress enough how much you SHOULD! Miranda Kenneally has done it again stealing my heart and catching the things I can't forget about these books.

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Mar 23, 2013 Dauntless rated it 5 of 5 stars

Disclaimer: I am only half way through Things I Can't Forget and I just needed to get this review out ASAP. Short and sweet--this book is wonderful. I was apprehensive about purchasing because of some negative reviews on other sites, expressing too much emphasis on religion.

While I am not as religiously devout as Kate and her community, I still found the plot, setting, and characters thoroughly enjoyable. I actually really liked Kate because she's like any other young adult trying to piece toget...more Disclaimer: I am only half way through Things I Can't Forget and I just needed to get this review out ASAP. Short and sweet--this book is wonderful. I was apprehensive about purchasing because of some negative reviews on other sites, expressing too much emphasis on religion.

While I am not as religiously devout as Kate and her community, I still found the plot, setting, and characters thoroughly enjoyable. I actually really liked Kate because she's like any other young adult trying to piece together her identity after an event that really turned her life upside down. I mean until that point, her life was pretty vanilla. She lived according to the norms of her Christian community and was successful and happy doing so. I couldn't really blame her for her "judgmental" attitude because she lacks experience and engagement with other people and lifestyle choices. In short, she lacks perspective on life and she started questioning and looking for it after helping her friend do something that left her conflicted.

Her position as a counselor provides an opportunity to observer people her own age, who are also part of her religious background and have their own definition and code of conduct constituting a "good Christian". In some ways, Kate learns that you can still be faithful to your religion and your own standard of behavior without giving up the teenage/young adult experiences of going to dances, kissing boys/girls, having a boyfriend, etc.

Despite that, Kate is obviously willing to learn and figure out where to go from here. I found myself comparing Kate's rigidity with Megan's strict, no-nonsense attitude. I found it ironic that Kate would chafe at Megan's strict no-nonsense attitude given she has equally strict expectations of her fellow counselors (i.e. no smoking, skinny dipping, or sharing a room with her co-ed colleagues).

I am really enjoying the novel and wanted to review it for all the readers sitting on the fence, unsure if this novel is for them. Trust me. If you are an open-minded individual, that wants to read about a very authentic journey for self-identity I think this novel is for you. It's sweet, funny, awkward, but so real, and I am only half-way through it!(less)

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Mar 21, 2013 Nina rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: enjoyed-it-but-not-must-read

More of my book reviews at http://mustreadbeforeyoudie.blog.com

Really enjoyed reading this!

Kate has never had a boyfriend, believes in no sex before marriage, and follows her pastor’s teachings. She’s a counselor at a summer camp and is reconnected with Matt, who she met in the same camp when she was younger. I’m a sucker for “young love” types of stories, and this one does not disappoint. Kate and Matt’s relationship evolve naturally and it was very sweet to see them tease each other, play game...more More of my book reviews at http://mustreadbeforeyoudie.blog.com

Really enjoyed reading this!

Kate has never had a boyfriend, believes in no sex before marriage, and follows her pastor’s teachings. She’s a counselor at a summer camp and is reconnected with Matt, who she met in the same camp when she was younger. I’m a sucker for “young love” types of stories, and this one does not disappoint. Kate and Matt’s relationship evolve naturally and it was very sweet to see them tease each other, play games together, and eventually fall in love.

It’s been a while since I’ve read a book where God is such a big influence. The main conflict is about Kate’s attraction to Matt and how she wants to do sinful things but knows it’s wrong. There’s also Kate’s best friend, Emily – they end up having a huge fight over their beliefs. There were about 2 or 3 instances where I got annoyed with Kate’s thoughts that I just want to shake her – why can’t she figure it out already! She was acting like a judgmental prude, LOL! By the end of the book, I was really proud of Kate and thankful I got to see her self journey.

The camp activities, descriptions, and story telling really made me think I was in camp. What a fun read! Also enjoyed the characters of the other camp counselors and the kids who attend the camp. If you’ve read Catching Jordan & Stealing Parker, and loved them, you will love this book too! Miranda Keaneally is a wonderful storyteller. I always feel “young” when I read her books… makes me giddy. (Parker & Will, Jordan & Sam make an appearance! Hooray!)

Other comments below with spoilers. (view spoiler)(less)

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Things I Can't Forget (Hundred Oaks #3)

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