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Double Clutch (Brenna Blixen #1)

by Liz Reinhardt (Goodreads Author)

3.86 of 5 stars 3.86 · rating details · 4,108 ratings · 364 reviews

What happens when you fall in love with the perfect guy... twice... in one day?

Brenna Blixen spent her freshman year homeschooling in Denmark; now that she’s back in the States, she’s determined to make her sophomore year unforgettable. And by unforgettable, she imagined awesome classes, fun friendships, and maybe a little romance.

What she got was a whole lot of romance,...more

Paperback, 267 pages

Published September 28th 2011 by CreateSpace (first published September 6th 2011)

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Dec 19, 2011 Wendy Darling rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebook-egalley, indie-author, young-adult, realistic-fiction, 2011-favorites, read-2011, brain-candy, crush-worthy-boys, hilarious, 2011-publication, mature-ya

Gosh, this book is so freaking cute, I can't even stand it. We all can use a little romance now and then, but not many contemporary YA love stories stand out as anything particularly memorable, which is why I normally prefer to see them cloaked among werewolves and angels and other such distractions.

Brenna Blixen doesn't need supernatural beings to keep our attention, however. This smart and focused heroine has plenty of drama in her life, what with starting all over again at her school after be...more

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Nov 30, 2011 Reynje rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: e-book-kindle, read-2011, young-adult, scoundrels-rakes-and-creeps, contemp-or-realistic

One of the things I love most about books and reading is the fact that they’re so subjective. Each person brings to their reading experience something personal and unique, and leaves with a slightly different interpretation. Add to this individual tastes and preferences, and the field of opinion gets fascinatingly broad. For every person who loves fantasy, there is someone who prefers contemporary. For every person who thinks the love interest is mysterious and enticing, there’s someone who thin...more One of the things I love most about books and reading is the fact that they’re so subjective. Each person brings to their reading experience something personal and unique, and leaves with a slightly different interpretation. Add to this individual tastes and preferences, and the field of opinion gets fascinatingly broad. For every person who loves fantasy, there is someone who prefers contemporary. For every person who thinks the love interest is mysterious and enticing, there’s someone who thinks s/he’s a swaggering arse-hat.

And for those of my friends who adored Double Clutch (and whose opinions I respect and value), there’s me.

I have mixed feelings about this story and overall, while I thought it was fun and rather cute in parts, I didn’t love it.

But credit where credit is due: this is a solid contemporary, upper YA romance that will probably appeal to fans of Jennifer Echols’ work. Double Clutch incorporates a new slant on the general high school scenario, and Brenna is a girl with clear interests and goals. There is a compelling dynamic between the three central characters and the tension between them is well-crafted, the triangulated attraction maintaining enough strength to carry the plot. The love interests are both flawed (view spoiler) and interesting in their own ways, which keeps the realm of possibility wide open and both options viable, rather than the lop-sided and clearly biased triangles to be found in some YA novels.

The story could have been finessed with some tighter editing, particularly of the descriptive and expositive passages, which at times get repetitive and tedious. There are portions that go a little too far into the minutiae of Brenna’s clothes, surroundings and actions, filling us in on each moment of her day when it’s not necessary and slowing the pacing down to a crawl. (This is also the first time I’ve seen the adjective “awesomely” used in print. Or e-ink. Whatever.)

Conversely, Reinhardt writes great dialogue – the voices of her teen characters feel authentic and lend a sense of normality to a situation which feels, honestly, more wish-fulfilment than strictly realistic. (Unless I am just the odd one out here, and everyone else found themselves at the centre of a steamy attraction-fest at 15?) But if the intention is to create an, er, gripping scenario balanced on a knife edge of secrets, past conflict and undeniable chemistry, then I think the goal is achieved and then some. It will be interesting to see whether this strong tension can be sustained over the course of two additional books without labouring the triangle into torturously back-and-forth territory.

Yet, there is something about this story that I balked at. For a book that I believe is intended to be sex-positive and up-front about physical intimacy, I found that message was muddied by some conflicting and unflattering portrayals of other characters. I really don’t want to start on a particular scene where a group of girls are described as practically “clawing and hissing” in their jealous rage and generally depicted as one-note, scantily-clad, “back-stabbing hooker want-to-be’s” because I could talk for hours about how much this bothers me. Particularly as it seems to serve to highlight the division between Brenna as “good” and these girls from Jake’s past as “bad”. While Brianna is accepting of Jake’s past sexual experiences (view spoiler) I feel like that is damaged by the (conscious or unconscious) demonising of the girls who took part. It (possibly unintentionally) reinforced an archaic and stereotypical double standard, and undoes much of the book’s otherwise positive and open attitude.

Interestingly I found the story between Jake and Saxon more intriguing than their respective interactions with Brenna, and I hope that the sequel delves further into their relationship, rather than just spinning out the romantic angst.

I’m willing to chalk this one up to just being “not for me”. A few of my friends have enjoyed this, and I’d recommend it to those looking for an entertaining YA romance with good chemistry between the characters.
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Sep 16, 2012 Kris (KC) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, new-adult-ya

Double Clutch amazed me! The spectacular writing takes a commonly used topic, such as a love triangle, and catapults it from the ordinary into the extraordinary!I was entranced by the naturalness of the dialogue and the realistic ease of the characters' interactions. I certainly had a hard time putting this book down.

I absolutely love Brenna and feel she is the perfect portrayal of a teenaged girl in high school. She's smart, strong, and has a refreshingly healthy relationship with her mother. S...more Double Clutch amazed me! The spectacular writing takes a commonly used topic, such as a love triangle, and catapults it from the ordinary into the extraordinary! I was entranced by the naturalness of the dialogue and the realistic ease of the characters' interactions. I certainly had a hard time putting this book down.

I absolutely love Brenna and feel she is the perfect portrayal of a teenaged girl in high school. She's smart, strong, and has a refreshingly healthy relationship with her mother. She's mature but to a believable level that I feel a lot of YA books lack. She has self-respect and shows concern for her grades but she becomes conflicted when she meets two amazing boys on the very same day...

Saxon is everything your mother warns you about: He's crude, arrogant, sexy, and so incredibly alluring that it's difficult to breathe normally in his presence. He's bad news, but there is some definite sweetness beneath his bad-boy persona. Jake is gorgeous, kind-hearted, caring, and protective without being possessive. He's incredibly vulnerable and is also hiding a mysterious past...these two could not be more different, but they're both vying for the likes of Brenna.

Reinhardt really knows how to paint a picture with words; those little flirty, nervous, uncertain-what-the-other-is-thinking moments transported me back to my teen years and made me giddy. The steaminess definitely turns this into a mature read with generous descriptions that provided me with endless ear-to-ear grins!

This story presents the ultimate love triangle without taking the betrayal and lies to an unforgivable extent. It's executed gracefully and although its purpose forms the plot, it also poses a question: When deciding on love, is the obvious, sensible, least threatening choice that provides the greatest comfort always the right one? Although Brenna does choose one boy over the other in this story, the author leaves her option for the other intriguingly open. I cannot wait to see how this triangle develops in the books ahead!

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Nov 04, 2011 Lisa O. rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-lit

Every time I decide to delve into self-published shaky territory I get worried. My experience in this field is quite limited and truly I am not sure I feel like actually getting more. This year, I was certainly heartened by instances such as Flat-Out Love but I am still burned by previous wrist-slitting catastrophes.

Thankfully, Double Clutch is a keeper. Mind, it is not perfect (then again, not even the traditionally published ones are) but this series and this author are certainly worth keepi...more Every time I decide to delve into self-published shaky territory I get worried. My experience in this field is quite limited and truly I am not sure I feel like actually getting more. This year, I was certainly heartened by instances such as Flat-Out Love but I am still burned by previous wrist-slitting catastrophes.

Thankfully, Double Clutch is a keeper. Mind, it is not perfect (then again, not even the traditionally published ones are) but this series and this author are certainly worth keeping an eye on.

Our Brenna, soon to be 16, has just come back from a year abroad - in Denmark - with her family. She's been home-schooled in that period and has now decided to do Share Time, attending both her regular high school and Tech school, where she's chosen graphic design. Trouble arise when, on her very first day, she meets Saxon, resident smart-ass bad boy and Jake, sweet, dyslexic, gorgeous techie, and is captivated by both. These two guys seem to have some shared history they don't want to talk about and Brenna is becoming the catalyst for the inevitable to happen.

What surprised me - pleasantly - about this book is that, despite the presence of some clichés which would normally put me in eye-rolling mode (insta-love, love triangle, new girl in school who sucks at PE, gorgeous guy with tousled hair), they are limited to beginning of the story, which then becomes interesting and fairly original.
Liz excelled at characterization in this case: the teenagers portrayed sound pretty believable, they're even occasionally goofy and certainly they don't sound like adults in the skin of teens, as it often happens. Sometimes, you can really detect the author's voice in such young characters and I think Liz pretty much managed to avoid that here.

Saxon and Jake are two charming and interesting characters and what I appreciated most is that, ultimately, the story is not about Brenna or the love triangle but rather about them: two friends who grew apart and who are obliged to come to terms with one another again because of/thanks to a girl. There are some secrets between them and gasp! even an interesting twist towards the end. I liked their stories, their personalities (Saxon is definitely reminiscent of Adrian from VA. Enough said.) and their quirks (photographic memory and dirt bikes? I liked that!).

But let's talk about something that is far from clichéd in this book: I have never EVER read such explicit make-out scenes in YA lit comparable to the ones in this book. It was an unsettling feeling and I am most definitely not used to it. I'm used to it in paranormal romance, not in this genre!
The result is pretty much to my taste, - but might NOT be to everybody's - there is no sex since the kids are kinda young but the scenes are steamy, graphic and just... stunningly and embarrassingly real. I say embarrassingly because I seem to recall myself some centuries ago.

The one missing star from my rating has to do with, you guessed it, the editing. There are a few typos and grammar mistakes here and there which could have been avoided with the help of a clinical eye. Also, in my opinion, some parts should have been tightened up, especially the internal monologues and the descriptive parts, while the dialogues are very, very good. Brenna has a clever, witty mind and I liked her very much.

Aside from that, a very pleasant and enjoyable book. I will surely read the sequel/s to Brenna, Jake and Saxon's story and I am glad Liz Reinhardt gave me the possibility to read Double Clutch.(less)

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Jan 24, 2013 AJ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: kindle, young-adult, series, romantic

What a fantastic book! I wouldn’t have thought that a YA book about a (pretty much drama-free) love triangle would pack such a punch, but it absolutely does.

Brenna is new to town, and on her first day at school she meeds moody bad boy, Saxon. She feels an instant connection to him, but is disappointed to see him with a girl hanging off him, talking about their date that night. Later that day she meets the boy from the wrong side of the tracks, Jake. Also drawn to him, Jake immediately puts her...more What a fantastic book! I wouldn’t have thought that a YA book about a (pretty much drama-free) love triangle would pack such a punch, but it absolutely does.

Brenna is new to town, and on her first day at school she meeds moody bad boy, Saxon. She feels an instant connection to him, but is disappointed to see him with a girl hanging off him, talking about their date that night. Later that day she meets the boy from the wrong side of the tracks, Jake. Also drawn to him, Jake immediately puts her at ease, and they fall into an easy relationship. But as things progress with him she discovers that the two boys in her life share a troubled past, and Saxon just refuses to go away...

What I loved about this book is that it’s so real, and incredibly honest. The characters are all great, likeable and realistic, and they actually speak like their age! In so many books, teenagers talk and banter like witty 20-30 year olds, but these kids actually sounded like kids - intelligent and mature, sure, but still very much teenagers. And it was so nice to read a book for a change where nobody is deeply traumatised, or dealing with major issues (although the boys aren't exactly pure and innocent, and there are secrets revealed which throw some twists into the storyline). Brenna is just a normal girl, with a happy family life. She is confident, honest and straightforward, and she’s torn between two great guys – both of whom I love just a little bit… okay, I love them heaps.

Oh I’m torn, I’m sooooo torn!! I can usually spot the perfect couple in a love triangle straight away, because I always fall for the guy that ends up with the girl, and in this case I thought I had it picked early, but as I got to know Saxon and Jake, I loved them both and suddenly it wasn’t so clear. Then as things started to develop I strongly leaned in one direction, and suddenly it all shifted and I didn’t know what the hell to think! I’m pretty sure I have a favourite, but the thought of either of these guys getting their hearts broken just devastates me! They are both amazing in their own ways, and I can absolutely sympathise with Brenna’s dilemma over having strong feelings for one guy while dating another. Her actions and thought processes are so well explained, that you understand what she’s feeling and why she makes the decisions that she does. And through it all there is no stupidness, and no games. Everybody is up front and honest and I love that!

"It’s not just a damn game. Whatever it is that I feel for you is more real than anything I’ve ever felt before."

...

"I don’t want to be your God damn friend"

The writing is beautiful. It flows easily, and the pacing of the story is perfect. Reinhardt really captures the feeling of first love (and a few other firsts) so brilliantly, it was like living it all over again. And even though the story is told from Brenna’s POV, the openness of the characters lets you know exactly what they’re going through, and you experience everything right along with them.

I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to continue on with the next book.

4.5 gorgeous stars!
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Jul 20, 2012 Chrystle rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, ya-romance, series, ba-author

What happens when you fall for the perfect guy twice…in one day?

Utter chaos, absolute chemistry and endearing first love.

Brenna Blixen is back in the US after a year in Denmark. She wants to go back to the classic American normal life of a teenager. She craves fun friendships, awesome classes and maybe a little romance to spice up her life. But her first day of school brings that as so much more!

Enter Saxon. Dark, witty, brooding and oh so sexy! He keeps Brenna entertained and on her toes. His...more

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Nov 12, 2011 Tammara added it · review of another edition

After spending what was supposed to be her 9th grade year in Denmark (her step-father is Danish and had business there), Brenna is back in NJ. While living abroad, she picked up a funky sense of style and a hankering to study graphic design. She starts her sophomore year doing "share time" - splitting her time between the regular high school and the Tech high school... and she inadvertently kicks off splitting her attraction between sexy, kinda mean and sarcastic bad boy Saxon and passionate, ad...more

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Mar 18, 2013 Lisbeth Avery {Assorted Insanity} rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: actually-not-that-bad, better-than-i-thought-it-would-be, ehh-cover, fem-pov, fluffy-fluff, guilty-pleasure, hormone-crazy-teens, it-s-that-new-adult-thing, its-angst-time, jerk-love-interest, low-expectations, netgalley, own-kindle, reviewed, sexy-times-alert, shouldn-t-like-but-did, stupid, two-stars, why-did-i-read-this

PRE-REVIEW:

While going through the review for DOUBLE CLUTCH, I came upon a review that compares DOUBLE CLUTCH to BEAUTIFUL DISASTER. Before I actually go into my review, I'd like to say that there is absolutely no comparison.

Travis is an awful volatile person who manipulates Abby. He's emotionally unstable, clingy, controlling, self absorbed, and he likes to beat up guys who look at his girlfriend the wrong way. Neither of the love interests in DOUBLE CLUTCH could be called that, unless you coun...more

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Oct 20, 2011 Katie Mills rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: my-bookshelf

Brenna Blixen is living a double life. She goes to two different schools- regular public school in the morning and the technical institute in the afternoon as a participant of the program ‘Share Time’. She has two sets of teachers, two sets of friends and two very different boys vying for her attention.

But what happens when the two worlds collide? Brenna might discover that the lines that connect Saxon and Jake could make or break her relationship with either.

The pacing in Double Clutch was fan...more

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Oct 09, 2011 Michelle rated it 4 of 5 stars

I got my copy of Double Clutch from Liz herself after she contacted me via a comment I made on another blog. I was surprised that she contacted me but accepted straight away. From reading the blurb I was really interested in Double Clutch and so excited to make a start on it.

Double Clutch follows Brenna, who has been home schooled in Denmark for a year, but has moved back to New Jersey with her Mum and Father. In New Jersey she has to settle back into school, make friends again, and to top it al...more

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Mar 18, 2013 Rachel rated it 4 of 5 stars

First off, let's get this out of the way: Team Saxon Mclean. Mmmmm that boy.

DOUBLE CLUTCH was given and signed for me by the fabulous Liz Reinhardt herself, and was a fantastic debut. I loved Brenna's character and her relationship with her mom and stepdad (even though her mom needed to back the hell off). I loved Brenna and how she had a good head on her shoulders and wanted more out of life than her small town. I loved that she took school seriously. I LOOOOOOVED her witty banter/back and fort...more

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Nov 04, 2011 Calia rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: mature-young-adult-reads

Ahhhh.... thats the sound of me relishing over this ah-mazing book.

I can't say that there is ONE character or scene that kept this book together. Because lets admit that, that usually happens in novels. We love one scene, or something in the book, and it keeps us going in the end. And when you've finished reading, something felt "off" so you give it a 3 or 4 stars.
Umm, won't happen here. Everything combined in this book: the characters, plot, tension, and romance makes it a perfect read.
And t...more

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Nov 11, 2011 Sofija rated it 2 of 5 stars

There is nothing I love more than a good old love triangle. Reading about two wonderful guys fighting for a girl makes me very happy. And this is what “Double Clutch” is essentially about. But surprisingly I found it lacking.

To start with, it lacked good editor work. It has too many little discrepancy.
Read this for example:

“I took a long shower and got dressed, then straightened my room. I was just thinking about calling Jake when I heard the mechanical whine that had scared me before. I checked...more

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Oct 31, 2011 Say rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: october-2011-reads, favorites

I’m kinda nervous writing a review for this particular book. Why? Well, seldom does an author writes you and ask if you would like to read his/her book and make a review on it. And you have to ask yourself, what if I don’t like the book? Oh my gosh, I would have to write how awful it is and the author would feel really bad and might as well curse me for eternity. And what if I find it really really good? Much harder I think, coz I have to really write an amazing review in parallel to how amazing...more I’m kinda nervous writing a review for this particular book. Why? Well, seldom does an author writes you and ask if you would like to read his/her book and make a review on it. And you have to ask yourself, what if I don’t like the book? Oh my gosh, I would have to write how awful it is and the author would feel really bad and might as well curse me for eternity. And what if I find it really really good? Much harder I think, coz I have to really write an amazing review in parallel to how amazing the book really is. And I guess I don’t know if I could really do that. So, with that being said, did I like this particular book or not…..I DID!!! I DID LIKED IT A LOT!!! Now, here’s my dilemma can I write a good review at least something passable for how great the book is….so here goes…..

THE STORY: I really liked it….reading the opening line of: Can you fall in love twice in the same day? Hmmm….interesting. We just love reading a good story wherein there are two guys vying for the same girl. I know, I know there are a lot of books out there with the same story. But I guess as a reader we can’t help but pick out these types of book and see how the author twists it in order for us readers to like it. And I would have to say I really liked how the author wrote the story of Saxon/Brenna/Jake. It has a lot of things happening around each and every one of them. Wherein I can’t stop reading coz I want to find out how the story goes.

THE CHARACTERS:
1. BRENNA: I would have to say, the girl ain’t perfect. At times you like her just fine and there were times that you would love to hate her, especially having some sort of a relationship with two boys at the same time. But hey if I were in her place I would probably be out of my mind choosing from two hot boys. So I guess, I understand her. But in my opinion she did just fine handling the attention of Saxon and Jake, which I think is really hard to do.
2. JAKE: The good boy with a dark past. Ooohhh, don’t we always fall for this particular guy. At first Brenna thought Jake was the polar opposite of Saxon. For one Jake is shy, looks down on himself, lacks self confidence, poor and studies in a tech school. But as the story goes Brenna discovers that there’s more to it than Jake is letting her see. He was indeed a wild child a year ago and he has this certain reputation.
3. SAXON: My Saxon (hahaha!!!), the total bad boy package. He is hot, he smokes, doesn’t care about rules, dresses like he just got out of his bed (which is hot btw) and to top it off he is quite smart (hey, he has a photographic memory…how cool is that!). Hence, the instant attraction of Brenna with him.
THE DILEMMA: If I were in Brenna’s shoes I would definitely have a hard time choosing. But well, Brenna did chose Jake. In my opinion, since he is the safer choice. But despite that she can’t get off her attraction with Saxon (how can she not) and because of that goes behind Jake’s back to have her moments with Saxon. And another thing that confuses Brenna’s feelings….the history the two guys have with each other and of course the great secret Saxon has to reveal to Brenna towards the end (read it to know it!)

I would have to say kudos to Ms. Reinhardt! I’m glad I was given the opportunity to read this book and hoping to be given the chance to read the upcoming books (yep guys this is not the end!). She has written a wonderful story on love, friendship and family. She has created believable characters, characters whom we get to adore, love and understand. This is a MUST read book!!! And again as I’ve said earlier to Ms. Reinhardt, thanks for creating Saxon…now I have another guy to swoon over!!!
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Feb 25, 2012 Autumn Review rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: review

Summary:
Brenna moves back to the US after spending a year abroad. She’s decided to go to school half day at the regular high school and half at the technical school down the road. On her first day, she meets dark, mysterious, handsome, and outgoing Saxon at her regular school. Then she goes to her tech classes and meets Jake. Jake is sweet, quiet, and flat out beautiful. The guys are total opposites, but Brenna is attracted to them both. Once she gets to know them both better, she feels like she...more Summary:
Brenna moves back to the US after spending a year abroad. She’s decided to go to school half day at the regular high school and half at the technical school down the road. On her first day, she meets dark, mysterious, handsome, and outgoing Saxon at her regular school. Then she goes to her tech classes and meets Jake. Jake is sweet, quiet, and flat out beautiful. The guys are total opposites, but Brenna is attracted to them both. Once she gets to know them both better, she feels like she’s got a stronger connection to Jake. They start dating and Brenna learns what love feels like. The problem is that Saxon won’t leave her alone. He’s stuck on her and isn’t afraid to show it. Now, Jake and Saxon have a past. They were once best friends, but have had a falling out and can’t seem to recover from it. Brenna finds that she is stuck in the middle.

My Take:

I had seen this book come across my recommended reads and had seen favorable reviews by fellow bloggers, but hadn’t had a chance to read it. Then, LR contacted me and asked if I would be interested in reviewing it for her. I jumped at the chance and I’m so glad I did! I read this book in a single day! I loved this story! I liked that the issues and feelings are realistic for their age group. I remember what I did at that age and Brenna’s behavior is very accurate for a curious 16 year old girl. The relationships certainly take center stage and I love that, but I also enjoyed seeing her relationship with her parents. I know that feeling of not letting them down, but wanting to be independent as well. It was nice to see Brenna make choices for herself and handle the consequences. Let me just say that I ADORE Jake! I liked how honest Jake and Saxon were about their feelings for her and how she was forced to come clean about her own feelings AND actions. I loved this book so much, that I have rearranged my reading schedule over the next few weeks, so that I can read the sequel, Junk Miles! Highly highly recommended read!
http://www.autumnreview.com/2012/02/d...(less)

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Nov 19, 2011 Wanda (Good Choice Reading) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: own, reviewed

First I have to say I really liked this book. "Double Clutch" expresses exactly the way teens really are. There were parts in the book that I would read and think. Yup, I definitely would have done that or I remember doing that. It reminded me how love is an emotion and can deeply affect us at all ages. What Brenna was going through at fifteen years old, is easily something adults can go through as well. The feeling of liking two guys so deeply that it confuses you. That both guys can reach some...more First I have to say I really liked this book. "Double Clutch" expresses exactly the way teens really are. There were parts in the book that I would read and think. Yup, I definitely would have done that or I remember doing that. It reminded me how love is an emotion and can deeply affect us at all ages. What Brenna was going through at fifteen years old, is easily something adults can go through as well. The feeling of liking two guys so deeply that it confuses you. That both guys can reach something different inside of you, that is something I feel you can experience at any age. However, it does take wisdom and maturity to make the right decisions or know the difference between what's real and what's not.

Brenna spent a year in Denmark and when she came back to the States, she had no difficulty finding her way back to normal again. Upon her first day of school, she meets sexy bad boy Saxon. And while attending Share Time, she meets cutie heartthrob Jake. Both complete opposites from the other. Saxon is the bad boy and unstable one while Jake is the bad one turned good. They both show interest in her and make their feelings known. Now she's stuck with the dilemma of choosing one over the other.

Now while both are charming, both had bad reputations. Which would make me run the other way. But choosing one wasn't too hard for Brenna. One pulled at her heartstrings more than the other. And of course, since both Jake and Saxon are former friends. They can't keep their negative comments and thoughts about the other to themselves. Brenna is stuck in the middle of defending her new boyfriend's honor and her friendship with the other. She learns the real reason behind the rivalry. It runs deeper than what her boyfriend thinks. But can she salvage the both before the beat themselves up over her? That's the real question.

Despite having a hot boyfriend, she still continues to do good in school. She doesn't let her hot and steamy relationship interfere with her school projects or her academic studies. Some of my favorite scenes are the one with Brenna and her boyfriend. Those two can get hot. And to be honest, as much as some readers may not like those scenes. It's reality. Teens now a days don't play too safe. They tend to get careless. I really want to tell you who she ends up with. But I don't do spoilers. However, I can say. That the guy she picks is whose team I'm on! I'm Team......

I really enjoyed this book, even though I get a little skeptic on reading books about teens as young as fifteen and sixteen. Liz didn't sugarcoat teens today. Teens today have problems just like adults do. Peer pressure is out there and some fall into the trap and get swallowed in with the bad crowd. I've already asked Liz if I can read the second book in series. So I'll be updating you soon about Brenna, Saxon and Jake. I give this book a 5/5 stars and a definite Good Choice for Reading.

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Nov 09, 2011 Abbi Glines rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: my-favs

Holy freaking CROW! I'm completely torn. I love Jake and Saxon. There must be another book on the way because this story is sooo not over. Loved it! A must read. Trust me!!!

UPDATE: Okay here is my review… sort of…
I won't go into details since other reviewers have but this book was fabulous. I bought it and thought I'd read a little here and there while I took writing breaks but that didn't happen. I ended up getting so sucked in I spent the day reading Double Clutch. I have NEVER read a love tr...more

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Apr 11, 2012 Lori rated it 5 of 5 stars

Saxon.. No Jake... NO! Saxon... No Jake!!! OMG I can not make up my mind... Liz did an absolutely fantastic job of giving you a love triangle where you really can't decide who you want... the bad boy that oozes sex appeal and fun or the sweetheart that is determined to live up to what you deserve? Double Clutch was an amazing book! I loved Brenna.. so much that I couldn't even wait to write my review before I started Junk Miles and I'm already moving into Slow Twitch. Seriously check out these b...more

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Dec 14, 2011 Shawna rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ebooks-nook, ya-dramas-romances-comedies, series-books, favorites, books-i-own

I loved this book. Of coarse when I realized that this is a series I had to purchase the second book Junk Miles right away even though I wasn't finished with Double Clutch. What's not to love about this book. 2 incredibly hot guys...1 confident young woman...a love triangle. Besides all that I really liked reading about Jake, Saxon, and Brenna.

I don't think I can give a review without giving away the book. What I loved most were the characters...They all had their flaws...Not one of them was per...more

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Jan 18, 2012 Kimmy rated it 3 of 5 stars

The girl is "hot", smart, lustful and sassy. The boys are also "hot". One is arrogant, aloof, unattainable, mean but has a good side to him that only the girl is able to unearth, making that the drawing factor of the girl to the boy. The other boy is kind, humorous and has a deep dark secret that only the girl (among the entire female population, apparently) discovers. Oh, and big surprise: both guys have a major crush on the girl. (Roll eyes.)

Sound familiar?

Yes, sigh, the book is just another l...more The girl is "hot", smart, lustful and sassy. The boys are also "hot". One is arrogant, aloof, unattainable, mean but has a good side to him that only the girl is able to unearth, making that the drawing factor of the girl to the boy. The other boy is kind, humorous and has a deep dark secret that only the girl (among the entire female population, apparently) discovers. Oh, and big surprise: both guys have a major crush on the girl. (Roll eyes.)

Sound familiar?

Yes, sigh, the book is just another love triangle. Just another love story among those inundating the YA market. Just another sappy fairy tale to satiate the insecurities of female readers who believe that love is out there waiting for us. Zzz...

I've read so many teenage love stories that I'm starting to get bored. Double Clutch is excellently written, with the dialogues witty and funny, but I can't help but feel that overall, the story just doesn't seem original. How unique can a love story get if the settings are just the same ol' same old: high school, project partnership in class and a small town? Fans of Catching Jordan and The Vincent Boys will probably like Double Clutch, as/although the plot of Double Clutch is somewhat similar to that of the two books. For me, the plot didn't work as the characters lacked depth and real-world life experience that can be only attained from hardship and struggle, even those in the course their relationship. Annoyingly, Brenna and her guys spend all their energy pondering and arguing over their relationship for fickle reasons and of course, Brenna cries sometimes for nothing at all. I felt that the characters weren't tough enough in handling their interpersonal relationships, and had to make a mound out of a molehill over nitty-gritty stuff.

I might seem like a person who snubs young teenage love stories. I beg to differ. I do like a decent romance, but I prefer stories which fuse not only romance with school-life but also with real-life situations which might hinder the progress of a relationship, not just the self-created problems such as those conjured up by the characters of Double Clutch. To readers bearing the same preference as I do, I recommend Perfect Chemistry, Angelfall, Stealing Phoenix and Unearthly over Double Clutch any day.(less)

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Nov 14, 2011 Tara Calaby rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: own-ebook, review-copy, contemporary-ya, ya-fiction, romance, love-triangle, family, sex

My full Double Clutch review can be found at Agrippina Legit.

There has been a lot of talk recently about people being sick of love triangles in YA fiction. I'm not one of those people. The love triangle has been a staple of romance since long before it started involving vampires and werewolves, as Reinhardt herself shows with her reference to Sense and Sensibility at the end of Double Clutch. The love triangle is perpetuated in literature because it works as romantic conflict – and there should...more

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Apr 09, 2012 Tough Critic Book Reviews rated it 3 of 5 stars

This series had me rolling around in a one big pile of indifference. I honestly couldn't pin point how I felt about Double Clutch. I swear the author gave me temporary bipolar disorder. I loved the teenage drama, but wasn't the biggest fan of the story. However the writing... Oh sweet mother of babies the writing!!!!

Okay, how do I put this. The "hook-up" scenes left me speechless!! Did he just-Did they-He asked what!?!He actually...OH. MY. HOLLY. HELL!! Liz Reinhardt, I know you just didn't. Oh...more

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Oct 02, 2012 Kellie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-na

4 1/2 stars

What happens when you fall in love with the perfect guy... twice... in one day?

I know what you’re thinking…. Another YA Love triangle

Well yes and no…
It is a love triangle. But not really, not your normal one. On one hand the 2 guys are polar opposites (which is a given for a triangle) But on the other they are actually quite the same.

Meet Brenna Blixen

(Liz mentioned that she had bangs and mentions converse a lot, I auto thought of this photo so she became Demi Lovato in my hea...more

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Jun 07, 2012 Alexis ~*Too many books, not enough time*~ rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: YA Romance Lovers!!

Shelves: jan-feb2012, month-of-love, sexy-series_read2012, alpha_male, boy_meets_girl_girl_meets_boy, family-secrets-revealed, funfearless-andfemale, hot_as_hell_male, jealousy, love_triangle, strong_female_lead, ya_mature-romance, ya-romance, all-time-faves, very-steamy

Spoiler free Review
4.5 STARS
Genre: Mature YA
Setting: New Jersey

Feelings
Ooooooo how i enjoyed this Ya Romance. I so recommend to all YA Romance lovers but be advised this is YA-Mature. Yes it has that pesky YA love triangle but it's HOT!! And good luck trying to pick btwn the two because it's not easy!!!!!

Book Summary
This book is about a young girl name Brenna who is returning back to New Jersey(America) after spending a year abroad in Denmark with her mother and stepfather. Brenna is 15 going 16...more

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Jun 09, 2012 Tessamari ♥Many Waters...♥ rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: new-adult-mature-ya, favorites, favorites-ya, first-love-crush, highly-emotional, lead-character-player, lead-character-bad-boy

4.5 Stars

I can't believe this book has been sitting around on my Kindle since December and never got around to reading it until now. WTF is wrong with me? I really enjoyed this story. Like Brenna, I fell head over heals in love with Saxon, then a minute later, fell in love with Jake. Oh the dilemma she has! This is why I love to read because I can vicariously live through these characters.

I really don’t need to recap this story in length since its pretty simple. Brenna just returned from Denmar...more

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Dec 13, 2011 Skyla rated it 4 of 5 stars

Recommended to Skyla by: Wendy Darling

Shelves: bubbly-narrator, couldn-t-stop-smiling, made-me-do-a-happy-dance, ya, e-book, awesomeness, books-i-own

I'm usually not a huge fan of real life fiction (aka fiction that has no paranormal/science fictiony element) but I was blown away by "Double Clutch". Thanks Wendy for convincing me to give it a go and thanks Liz for letting me know how to get it here in Canada it was worth the wait =)

"Double Clutch" revolves around a 15 going on 16 year old girl named Brenna Blixen. Brenna has spent the last year in Denmark seeing her stpfather's homeland and being home schooled by her mother. Now she is back i...more

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Nov 05, 2011 Anne Nikoline rated it 2 of 5 stars Recommends it for: fans of love triangles

Recommended to Anne Nikoline by: goodreads friends

Shelves: young-adult, love-or-romance, fiction, ebook, read-in-2011

In many ways Double Clutch by Liz Reinhardt is a very typical young adult novel with a love triangle. Only it's not. To begin with, I felt a little sceptical about this novel because it's a young adult book, a genre I've moved past lately because to me, many young adult novels are almost the same, but that's another story.

First of all, I've to admit I felt a bit flattered while reading Double Clutch. I'm a Dane and in the beginning the reader gets to hear a whole lot about Denmark. I think the...more

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Dec 02, 2011 Racquel rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: book-boyfriend♥, books-i-own, contemporary, favorite-of-favorite♥, favorites, must-buy-authors, read-in-2011, ya, ya-contemporary, review-copy

Review also posted on my blog: The Book Barbies

Liz Rienhardt is the first ever author to ask me to read and review their book so from the beginning this book was special. I was kind of anxious to read it though because I was scared I wasn’t going to like it and since Liz is just THE sweetest person ever, she’s so nice and I’m so glad I got to talk to her it would have been plain awful writing negative review. But thank goodness, I was spared from having to deal with that because this book ROCKS!...more

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Oct 25, 2011 deanneluvbooks rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, read-over-and-over

Definitely a no brainer for giving Double Clutch 6 out of 5 stars. Did you just say I gave it 5? Well, there was no other option, but that's what its worth. A book that is a must read hands down!!! It will be the best moments of your life. What? Are you saying I have no life? Damn rights I don't, thanks to my three crazy, oops I mean lovely children. Double Clutch swept me away just like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, The Iron Series and all Cassandra Clares books just to name few of my favs. I...more

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Oct 09, 2011 Michelle rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Anyone who loves a good love triangle

Recommended to Michelle by: Amy saldana

I fell in love with this story from the very beginning! I must say that I was and still am in love with Jake! I can't wait to see what Liz does with this love triangle in book 2.... The only bad thing I have to say about this book is that it ended!

This book is definitely a must read!!!!

like 3 likes · see review

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About Liz Reinhardt

Liz Reinhardt was born and raised in the idyllic beauty of northwest NJ. A move to the subtropics of coastal Georgia with her daughter and husband left her with a newly realized taste for the beach and a bloated sunscreen budget. Right alongside these new loves is her old, steadfast affection and longing for bagels and the fast-talking foul mouths of her youth.

She loves Raisinettes, even if they a...more

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Quotes from Double Clutch

“Are you going to kiss me?" I blabbered stupidly.
"I'm working up the nerve," he said softly.” — 45 people liked it

“Can I..." He stopped and his jaw flexed. "Can I kiss you?"
I didn't answer, and he didn't wait for me to. His hands caught me gently behind the neck and he pressed his mouth to mine, softly but firmly. Then he moved one arm around my waist and pulled me closer to him.” — 26 people liked it

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Double Clutch (Brenna Blixen #1)

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