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Lost Love #1
Talania: A Trip down Memory Lane
What happens when you literally get a second chance at love?
Evelyn Beaumont can't remember anything from the time she was 14 until she was 19. She lost five years of her life because of brain cancer. Now she is a 20 years old survivor and enrolled in college, determined to reclaim her life. There she meets Tristan Monroe, but it isn't the first time they’ve met. In fact, Tristan and Evelyn were once in love. It was a love so strong that it shattered him when, after the three years they had spent together, she never came back to Laguna.
Evelyn wants nothing more than to have her memories back. With the help of Tristan and his brother Drake, they take Evelyn on an emotional journey filled with videos, photos, and memorabilia...a walk down memory lane.
While they stroll down memory lane, Evelyn must learn to deal with Tristan's rock star fame and the ever-present groupies. She struggles to find herself and to learn to love again.
Is their love strong enough to overcome the memory loss? Is it strong enough to survive whatever comes their way? Will all the proof Tristan shares with her be enough to show her how deeply they loved each other? Will love find Evelyn once again?
Evelyn Beaumont can't remember anything from the time she was 14 until she was 19. She lost five years of her life because of brain cancer. Now she is a 20 years old survivor and enrolled in college, determined to reclaim her life. There she meets Tristan Monroe, but it isn't the first time they’ve met. In fact, Tristan and Evelyn were once in love. It was a love so strong that it shattered him when, after the three years they had spent together, she never came back to Laguna.
Evelyn wants nothing more than to have her memories back. With the help of Tristan and his brother Drake, they take Evelyn on an emotional journey filled with videos, photos, and memorabilia...a walk down memory lane.
While they stroll down memory lane, Evelyn must learn to deal with Tristan's rock star fame and the ever-present groupies. She struggles to find herself and to learn to love again.
Is their love strong enough to overcome the memory loss? Is it strong enough to survive whatever comes their way? Will all the proof Tristan shares with her be enough to show her how deeply they loved each other? Will love find Evelyn once again?
205 pages, Unknown Binding
First published September 28, 2013
14 people are currently reading
1508 people want to read
About the author
Crystal Spears
16 books2,136 followersCrystal Spears lives in Indiana with her two children, rabbit, and her pocket parrot, Harlem.
She is the bestselling author of the Breakneck MC series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
April 2, 2013
On my trip down memory lane my emotions were wrecked!
I have spent the past thirty minutes staring at my screen with absolutely no clue what to write. Seriously, I'm very close to, "Read this book. That is all. Goodbye!"
Not because this book doesn't deserve better, but because I'm afraid this book deserves more than I can give.
Reading this book is like walking on thin ice. You know it's going to break any second. You can hear it crack, and what's waiting for you is worse than the painful shock of cold, lifeless water. But you keep going. It was like being in a haunted house of emotions. You keep expecting something to jump out from around every corner...every page.
All dramatic analogies aside, this book brought me up...down. It was a beautiful love story. A unique love story. One that had me praying with each word. Throughout the entire book I kept hoping...hoping that I wasn't going to break. I broke.
I broke when Evelyn and Tristan reconnected.
I broke from the weight of passion...love.
I broke when Tristan broke.
My heart was a puppet and Crystal Spears had the strings. She pretty much scared the shit out of me and squeezed my emotions until they were dry.
If you need a beautiful story of romance, passion, and a male character whose tears will become your own then this book is for you. I definitely recommend it!!
READ ON!
More reviews at http://www.toughcriticbookreviews.com
I have spent the past thirty minutes staring at my screen with absolutely no clue what to write. Seriously, I'm very close to, "Read this book. That is all. Goodbye!"
Not because this book doesn't deserve better, but because I'm afraid this book deserves more than I can give.
Reading this book is like walking on thin ice. You know it's going to break any second. You can hear it crack, and what's waiting for you is worse than the painful shock of cold, lifeless water. But you keep going. It was like being in a haunted house of emotions. You keep expecting something to jump out from around every corner...every page.
All dramatic analogies aside, this book brought me up...down. It was a beautiful love story. A unique love story. One that had me praying with each word. Throughout the entire book I kept hoping...hoping that I wasn't going to break. I broke.
I broke when Evelyn and Tristan reconnected.
I broke from the weight of passion...love.
I broke when Tristan broke.
My heart was a puppet and Crystal Spears had the strings. She pretty much scared the shit out of me and squeezed my emotions until they were dry.
If you need a beautiful story of romance, passion, and a male character whose tears will become your own then this book is for you. I definitely recommend it!!
READ ON!
More reviews at http://www.toughcriticbookreviews.com
March 31, 2013
This was 12 1/2 AMAZING STARS!!
I want this review to be EPIC among EPICS, but unfortunately, I'm not very good at reviews, but here it goes...
Evelyn Beaumont gets diagnosed with brain cancer at a very young age. After leaving for Thanksgiving one year she never returned home.
Her boyfriend Tristan Monroe thought it was his fault. Years later they meet again, only Evelyn does not remember Tristan due to her brain cancer.
Can Tristan bring Evelyn back her memories & make her fall in love with him once again?
Will Ev succumb to her cancer, or will she survive?
Will Ev & Trist find their happily Ever After?
Will they be able to forgive the deception?
You will find heartache like no other, unexpected deception, & what true friends really are...
This book will make you laugh, make you cry and let you know facts about cancer.
I want this review to be EPIC among EPICS, but unfortunately, I'm not very good at reviews, but here it goes...
Evelyn Beaumont gets diagnosed with brain cancer at a very young age. After leaving for Thanksgiving one year she never returned home.
Her boyfriend Tristan Monroe thought it was his fault. Years later they meet again, only Evelyn does not remember Tristan due to her brain cancer.
Can Tristan bring Evelyn back her memories & make her fall in love with him once again?
Will Ev succumb to her cancer, or will she survive?
Will Ev & Trist find their happily Ever After?
Will they be able to forgive the deception?
You will find heartache like no other, unexpected deception, & what true friends really are...
This book will make you laugh, make you cry and let you know facts about cancer.
April 5, 2013
This book was heartbreaking and up-lifting. It will leave your emotions in a constant state of motion. From the moment Evelyn introduces herself I was captured by her strength and determination. Please be warned that you will need a box of tissues close by because this book will bring tears to your eyes numerous times.
“My name is Evelyn Beaumont. I am twenty years old and I am a brain cancer survivor. At the tender age of sixteen, right after my summer break, I started getting blurred vision followed by intense, blinding headaches; then came the memory loss. I started losing all memory. I can remember from the age of thirteen and down, and my memory is fine now, but I just cannot remember those six years. The tumor is gone. The cancer is gone. I am a survivor. My family moved us to Atlanta, Georgia for the finest surgeons and doctors in the field. They were advised to remove anything dealing with my past from the years I can’t remember because it could be very difficult for me to deal with. So here I am, four years later, cancer free for less than six months and finally enrolled in college on campus instead of taking on-line courses. My parents said I deserved it; I beat cancer, so now it was time to enjoy life and live the college dream. Now I will be entering my sophomore year in college. Never in my wildest dreams or wishful hoping would I ever think I would meet a guy like Tristan, a guy who would turn my world upside down with secrets, a guy who would change my life forever."
Evelyn meets her roommate, Adella, and she decides to help Evelyn start living life by taking her to a local bar. The bar is owned by Tristan, who also happens to be in the band that's playing that night. Ev instantly feels a connection to him and the sad song he sings, almost as if she unconsciously knows its about her.
“So the band is called ‘Lost’?”-Evelyn
“Yeah, it has something to do with Tristan losing someone very important to him when he was younger.”-Adella
“Tristan is a bad boy, rumor has it a girl broke his heart back when he was seventeen and he’s never never recovered. In fact, he screws his way through the campus.”-Adella
“So what do the pretty ladies want to hear first?”
The crowd goes wild shouting ‘Lost Love’. I can’t help but notice the small frown that appears on Tristan's masculine face. “‘Lost Love’ it is.”
“Lost love
Lost love
Why did you have to be my lost love?
What did I do wrong?
Was it something I did?
Was it something I said?
Lost love
Why did you have to be my lost love?"
When Ev goes to the bathroom she runs into Drake, Tristan's little brother, and someone who used to be a brother to her as well. This is when we find out what happened to Ev and Tristan's relationship, and why he thinks she just disappeared. It's heartbreaking to see Tristan and Drake's reaction to the fact that she doesn't remember them. You can really feel their pain for losing her, as well as for not being there for her. Tristan had no clue what she went through and honestly, I think he feels ashamed for being angry with her while she was fighting for her life. This part of the book was really important because it shows us that this "bad boy" really is just a hurt man acting out his pain by having casual sex in hopes of forgetting the one that got away, his infinity.
“Know me? Do you know me? It’s me, Drake. We only vacationed together for three summers in a row down at Laguna Beach. You and Tristan were inseparable.”-Drake
“Look Tristan, I have a surprise for you,” Drake says, drawing Tristan’s attention away from the pretty blonde girl sitting in his lap. His eyes go to Drake’s and then to mine. He jumps up, dumping the blonde to the floor, spilling his beer in the process.
“Evelyn,” he whispers.
“Yes, that’s my name,” I whisper back.
“She doesn’t remember us bro.”-Drake
“I sit down and say nothing. The love of my life is standing right in front of me. She doesn’t even fucking remember me? What the hell do you say to that shit? I spent three summers with her and she can’t remember me? She fidgets before sitting next to Adella. Adella wastes no time in wrapping her tightly in her arms. What the hell is going on?”-Tristan
“I look closely at the symbol on the bracelet. I can’t breathe. This cannot be what I think it is. Tears are stinging my fucking eyes. This cannot be happening.
“This…this is a cancer survivor bracelet,” I whisper.-Tristan
“Drake and I gasp at the same time. This whole time I thought she left me, left us, and she was f****** dying of cancer. I cannot breathe. Someone needs to get me some f****** air."-Tristan
“She’s ‘Lost Love’, isn’t she?” Shawn mumbles.
It’s the first time he has spoken since this whole thing started.
“Yeah man, she’s ‘Lost Love’,” I whisper.-Tristan
Tristan is in a rock band, and although its not talked about, I would imagine he is pretty well off since he also owns a bar. So of course there are groupies around all the time. This is something Ev doesn't like from the second they meet. She is instantly jealous and can't understand why she feels so strongly about Tristan this soon. But of course her pride is too big to admit it. You can really tell that although Tristan is upset and tries to hurt her a bit for her comment, he really has no interest in "blondie" or any other woman besides Ev. I'm just going to say that the groupies do play a huge part in a lot of their fights. And one in particular will make you want to scream.
“Tristan, you ready?” Blondie comes back, purring.
“Go away. I’m visiting friends,” he says, not turning in her direction at all.
“Tristan baby, are we still on for tonight?” She twirls her fingers around a strand of her hair.
He looks at me, but I’m not sure why.”
“No, not tonight. Maybe another night,” he says quietly.
“Oh, don’t stop on my account,” I spit out. “After all, Blondie is waiting.”
What is wrong with me? This is not me. Or is it? Why do I feel this way? Why do I feel like he belongs to me?
“You know what? Yeah, I’ll be over later,” he gives Blondie a panty-dropping grin.”
“Tristan, tie up your loose ends or untie me,”-Ev
I love how well Crystal wrote the book from both Tristan and Evelyn's view. She didn't have them both tell you the same scene in each of their views, which can get annoying. She flawlessly passed from Tristan's view to Evelyn's view while continuing without any interruption to the flow of the story. It was amazing to read both of their thoughts and emotions simultaneously in a beautifully written story that shows their journey back to the love they once shared.
Tristan has so many different emotions swirling in his head that he can't quite get his thoughts to come out right at times. Its almost as if he is going through all the stages of grief, the grieving over the time they lost together and the years he spent hating her for leaving him. I love how open and honest he is about his love for Ev. He never once fought his feelings like most bad boys do. He loves her with a passion and devotion that is rare to see at such a young age. She is quite simply his world and he would do anything to make hers better.
“Drake, I promised to give her back these three years,” I groan. “What if it’s too hard for me man? What if I can’t make her love me again?”-Tristan
“I can’t believe she didn’t leave me. I hated her for no reason. My hate was so deep I never thought I would get out of it. It was as if a giant black hole swallowed my heart up.”-Tristan
“You’re not prepared for me and everything that comes with me? Well, let me tell you something Evelyn Beaumont. I wasn’t prepared for you to walk back into my f****** life. I was finally coming to grips with you being gone; finally filling the gaping hole you left in my heart. You know, I wish I had never f****** made that promise to you when I was sixteen."-Tristan
“Mere seconds after closing the door behind me, I collapse on the wall outside her room and slide down to the floor. I gasp for breath as tears stream down my face, my heart pounding against the wall of my chest. I bang my head against the wall, not caring about the pain."-Tristan
The book also has flashbacks to their three summers together before she got brain cancer. They were beautifully written and enlightening to see how they interacted as teenagers in love. I loved everything about this book. I cried for her pain of losing part of her life and memories to cancer, and I cried for Tristan's pain believing she had left him. There is so much more that happens in the second half of the book, but I don't want to say too much for fear of giving spoilers. We find out the reason Tristan never found out about her Cancer, another shocking secret Evelyn couldn't remember, and a heartbreaking situation that puts Tristan's love and support for Evelyn to the test. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book. In fact, it was so good I will be going back and reading all of Crystal Spears books.
Some of my favorite quotes from the book:
“It can be like a trip down memory lane. I can show you things in order. I don’t want to show you all of it at once. I don’t want you to get overwhelmed. What we had was very intense.”-Tristan
"How intense?"-Ev
“I was your first and you were mine.”-Tristan
“You know I love you right? I could have died. I just wanted you to know I love you.”-Tristan
“You jackass! You just told me you loved me after your brother pissed on your leg!"-Ev
“I hope you can do it again,” she whispers.
“Do what again baby?” I ask.
“Make me fall in love with you again.” She places her small hand over my heart.
Little does she know that she is not going anywhere ever again.”
“If you think I’m letting you go through this alone, you’re wrong. I’m not leaving your damn side!”-Tristan
“What do you mean ‘Team Bald’?” she whispers.
Right then, Adella and Drake start setting out clippers.
“It’s a shave party babe.” I grin.
April 1, 2013
FAV line so far:
“I will not survive without her again. My heart was shattered when she was gone. My soul was caged. She is back and I am
MY RECC AT AMMY:
He's like Kellan and Travis iro neediness, protective/territorial/caring for her. Crying hero. Its a nice story. I cried because of the situation they find themselves in. The blurb gives the background of the story and if I add anything else it'll be considered spoilers.
Needs editing.
I liked the premise of the story but I didn't find it to be a fulfilling read and didn't connect with the characters. But I'm mentioning it here cos the hero is Travis-like and we all take away different things from diff books.
It was like someone was reading a heartfelt story to me. A situation I could deeply empathize with yet I felt removed from their situation. It felt rushed and the timeline seemed out to me. The bottom line of the story is great and I wished I could get into it, especially considering the gravity of the topic. The author did that part very well, I think. Kudos to her. The "idea" of her characters are wonderful but something is missing for me. I'm frustrated with myself for that, cos I really needed to love this one.
Its not a bad book. Just not for me.
I wanted....more. I kept at it. HOPING and hoping and hoping that it would come. Yes, I know its a short read, I get that, but I've read short gripping fulfilling reads, so I know it can be done.
I also know that I can't expect a whammer of a book every time I read one but this book has a fantastic plot that fell short. I almost felt cheated which is ridiculous on my part cos, after all this author didn't write this especially for me, you know? I just felt it could've been so much more. Im thinking, if say M Leighton (Fragile) or Colleen Hoover got hold of a premise like this, that book will be a NYT bestseller. They'd probably do the grave subject matter justice.
I didn't dislike it, I just felt irritated and resentful that I wasn't getting a meatier read. Sigh. So hard to please. Maybe if this was the first book I ever read, it would have made an impact on me, but I have too much to compare it with, I suppose.
I feel a right cow for not being able to give it 5/5 stars. I gave it a 3 in GR cos like I say, it might not be a book for me but there ARE good things about the book.
“I will not survive without her again. My heart was shattered when she was gone. My soul was caged. She is back and I am
MY RECC AT AMMY:
He's like Kellan and Travis iro neediness, protective/territorial/caring for her. Crying hero. Its a nice story. I cried because of the situation they find themselves in. The blurb gives the background of the story and if I add anything else it'll be considered spoilers.
Needs editing.
I liked the premise of the story but I didn't find it to be a fulfilling read and didn't connect with the characters. But I'm mentioning it here cos the hero is Travis-like and we all take away different things from diff books.
It was like someone was reading a heartfelt story to me. A situation I could deeply empathize with yet I felt removed from their situation. It felt rushed and the timeline seemed out to me. The bottom line of the story is great and I wished I could get into it, especially considering the gravity of the topic. The author did that part very well, I think. Kudos to her. The "idea" of her characters are wonderful but something is missing for me. I'm frustrated with myself for that, cos I really needed to love this one.
Its not a bad book. Just not for me.
I wanted....more. I kept at it. HOPING and hoping and hoping that it would come. Yes, I know its a short read, I get that, but I've read short gripping fulfilling reads, so I know it can be done.
I also know that I can't expect a whammer of a book every time I read one but this book has a fantastic plot that fell short. I almost felt cheated which is ridiculous on my part cos, after all this author didn't write this especially for me, you know? I just felt it could've been so much more. Im thinking, if say M Leighton (Fragile) or Colleen Hoover got hold of a premise like this, that book will be a NYT bestseller. They'd probably do the grave subject matter justice.
I didn't dislike it, I just felt irritated and resentful that I wasn't getting a meatier read. Sigh. So hard to please. Maybe if this was the first book I ever read, it would have made an impact on me, but I have too much to compare it with, I suppose.
I feel a right cow for not being able to give it 5/5 stars. I gave it a 3 in GR cos like I say, it might not be a book for me but there ARE good things about the book.
July 19, 2015
What did you think? Wow, that is a hard question to answer. Talania, A Trip Down Memory Lane by Crystal Spears is one of the most touching books I have read. It weaves the past and future together in such a beautiful way that there is never any confusion as to what is going on and why. The characters in the story have such a raw, real edge.
Evelyn is diagnosed with brain cancer. Unfortunately, the tumors are growing in the area of the brain that controls memory...three separate times. That means this poor girl has surgery, goes through extensive radiation and chemo,only to have to deal with it again and again. Each time, as she recuperates, she has to learn who her parents and her doctors are all over again. All other things from her past are hidden from her so that she can focus on healing.
Fast forward...cancer-free college student, living on campus and away from her parents and medical team. Freedom at last. The biggest difference between Evelyn and your typical student is the fact that Ev has fought a long hard battle against cancer, and she won. She is ready to experience life, but she has no memory of what she likes, where she's been, etc. She knows that she's had sex, but can't remember with whom.
Enter Tristan. Ev meets Tristan at 'Before and After', a local bar that is a popular college hangout. Tristan is the lead singer of the band "Lost". It seems that Tristan knows Ev from before...he knows things that she should. He has it all saved too, in pictures, DVDs, etc. from the time they spent together.
Tristan, hurt and angry. thinks Ev just dumped him and disappeared. Evelyn just doesn't remember him. Can these two discover what happened and can they find love on their trip down memory lane?
Evelyn is diagnosed with brain cancer. Unfortunately, the tumors are growing in the area of the brain that controls memory...three separate times. That means this poor girl has surgery, goes through extensive radiation and chemo,only to have to deal with it again and again. Each time, as she recuperates, she has to learn who her parents and her doctors are all over again. All other things from her past are hidden from her so that she can focus on healing.
Fast forward...cancer-free college student, living on campus and away from her parents and medical team. Freedom at last. The biggest difference between Evelyn and your typical student is the fact that Ev has fought a long hard battle against cancer, and she won. She is ready to experience life, but she has no memory of what she likes, where she's been, etc. She knows that she's had sex, but can't remember with whom.
Enter Tristan. Ev meets Tristan at 'Before and After', a local bar that is a popular college hangout. Tristan is the lead singer of the band "Lost". It seems that Tristan knows Ev from before...he knows things that she should. He has it all saved too, in pictures, DVDs, etc. from the time they spent together.
Tristan, hurt and angry. thinks Ev just dumped him and disappeared. Evelyn just doesn't remember him. Can these two discover what happened and can they find love on their trip down memory lane?
April 27, 2013
I'm so on the fence with this story. It has some really great five star aspects to it, and then some moments I dislike so much that I wanted to scream. And I'm not really sure why.
I loved the storyline, I thought it was really original and creative. I loved the idea of Evelyn forgetting a huge chunk of her life and Tristan reminding her of all those special moments with videos from their past... I just didn't buy into her jumping back into things with him within 24 hours. Maybe that's just me, I just found that it took away from the build of the story.
I found her battle with cancer completely heartbreaking. Having lost my dad to cancer, I could really relate to the pain and fear and desperation of the patient as well as all of the people around her who lived that battle right along with her. I thought the entire conversation surrounding cancer and chemo was all very accurate and well written.
Sometimes the dialogue really bugged me. I absolutely despised the repeated use of "my infinity." Once or twice, I got it, it was cute. But it got seriously overused and really got under my skin.
I also liked the drama that the woman at the end caused by showing up. I just didn't like the timing. Had she shown up before the baby was in the picture, I would have definitely liked the waves that she caused, the angst that might have created. But showing up after Evelyn had come out of the coma, with a baby being in the picture, she didn't have that effect on me as a reader because I knew Tristan wouldn't have done anything with her. And Evelyn's overly dramatic reaction to something we all knew hadn't actually happened, just got on my nerves.
All in all, an entertaining quick read.
I loved the storyline, I thought it was really original and creative. I loved the idea of Evelyn forgetting a huge chunk of her life and Tristan reminding her of all those special moments with videos from their past... I just didn't buy into her jumping back into things with him within 24 hours. Maybe that's just me, I just found that it took away from the build of the story.
I found her battle with cancer completely heartbreaking. Having lost my dad to cancer, I could really relate to the pain and fear and desperation of the patient as well as all of the people around her who lived that battle right along with her. I thought the entire conversation surrounding cancer and chemo was all very accurate and well written.
Sometimes the dialogue really bugged me. I absolutely despised the repeated use of "my infinity." Once or twice, I got it, it was cute. But it got seriously overused and really got under my skin.
I also liked the drama that the woman at the end caused by showing up. I just didn't like the timing. Had she shown up before the baby was in the picture, I would have definitely liked the waves that she caused, the angst that might have created. But showing up after Evelyn had come out of the coma, with a baby being in the picture, she didn't have that effect on me as a reader because I knew Tristan wouldn't have done anything with her. And Evelyn's overly dramatic reaction to something we all knew hadn't actually happened, just got on my nerves.
All in all, an entertaining quick read.
March 31, 2013
Evelyn was stricken with brain cancer at age 16. She is now 20 and she can't remember five years of her life, from ages 14 to 19. Evelyn meets Tristan. She has no memory of him but they were in love. “...she is my soul mate; the reason I breathe, the reason I make music.” They say you never forget your first love. Evelyn forgot hers but together she and Tristan are determined to reignite their love for each other. From the first sentence, this story drew me in. The concept is gripping, the characters are likeable, the writing is spot on perfect. It is beautiful and poignant. I was smiling contentedly as I read it, Tristan and Evelyn are so sweet together. I laughed and I cried. As I was reading it, I was reminded of the movies 50 First Dates and One Day. I think this would be an excellent movie. This book is so romantic, emotional and at times racy. Crystal Spears is so good at writing the racy, if you don't believe me, check out Jade's Diaries, Strictly Series. Talania is beautiful and emotional and I love it so very much.
April 5, 2013
Oh gosh I am not even sure where to start with this book. I have been pondering with this review for a few days; not because it was a bad book. No, no that's not the case.....I am just not sure I can do this book justice! This is one of those books where you wish that there were more than 5 stars for a rating. Yep, it was one of those books!
This book took me on a train ride of emotions. I was happy, elated, overjoyed, sad, devastated, gutted, and angry throughout the book. I have NEVER ---> I repeat NEVER felt what I felt while reading Talania - A Trip Down Memory Lane. This was one AH-MAZ-ING read! It was a beautiful story line. The emotions I experienced were real and I was in awe at how well this story was written. I found myself laughing, giggling, crying, and throwing my Kindle a few times throughout the novel. Oh and there was certainly some steamy scenes throughout the book *fans self.*
Oh Evelyn or "Ev" as she is referred to throughout the book; I fell in love with her character. Talk about one strong kick ass woman! Can you imagine losing five years of your life and memories to brain cancer? Only, to kick cancer in the rear and find your one true love again. Hmm, but can she remember Tristan and the love they shared or will the love they shared stay hidden? You will certainly have to read this fantastic book to find out.
Tristan *Sigh* I have found myself a new book boyfriend! He was a former womanizer, committed, loving, caring, devoted, a little cocky at times, and just downright sexy! Mmm hmm, as soon as I learned he had a V---> I was hooked tehehehehe! Oh and did I mention he's a ROCKSTAR! You know how I feel about a sexy man who can sing and play guitar right? Yep, I was sold! His voice could melt the panties off of any woman. I have to admit I was a little envious of Evelyn.
I am a HUGE fan of Author Crystal D. Spears and had previously read her Strictly Series and Smile Series. I knew I would enjoy Talania- A Trip Down Memory Lane because she is a fantastic writer, but I had no idea how much I would truly LOVE it and I do LOVE it! I mean this author truly did her job because she had me hook, line, and sinker with this novel. I may have a fan girl crush on her! Yep, that's how fabulous this novel was. I am not kidding----> If you are looking for an emotional read one that grips you from the first page then grab this novel! You will not be disappointed. Fans of Hopeless by Colleen Hoover, Reason to Breathe by Rebecca Donovan, The Edge of Never by J.A. Redmerski, and The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay will enjoy this novel! Yes, it's one of those. One that stays with you and you can't shake! Happy Reading! xoxo
*I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review*
This book took me on a train ride of emotions. I was happy, elated, overjoyed, sad, devastated, gutted, and angry throughout the book. I have NEVER ---> I repeat NEVER felt what I felt while reading Talania - A Trip Down Memory Lane. This was one AH-MAZ-ING read! It was a beautiful story line. The emotions I experienced were real and I was in awe at how well this story was written. I found myself laughing, giggling, crying, and throwing my Kindle a few times throughout the novel. Oh and there was certainly some steamy scenes throughout the book *fans self.*
Oh Evelyn or "Ev" as she is referred to throughout the book; I fell in love with her character. Talk about one strong kick ass woman! Can you imagine losing five years of your life and memories to brain cancer? Only, to kick cancer in the rear and find your one true love again. Hmm, but can she remember Tristan and the love they shared or will the love they shared stay hidden? You will certainly have to read this fantastic book to find out.
Tristan *Sigh* I have found myself a new book boyfriend! He was a former womanizer, committed, loving, caring, devoted, a little cocky at times, and just downright sexy! Mmm hmm, as soon as I learned he had a V---> I was hooked tehehehehe! Oh and did I mention he's a ROCKSTAR! You know how I feel about a sexy man who can sing and play guitar right? Yep, I was sold! His voice could melt the panties off of any woman. I have to admit I was a little envious of Evelyn.
I am a HUGE fan of Author Crystal D. Spears and had previously read her Strictly Series and Smile Series. I knew I would enjoy Talania- A Trip Down Memory Lane because she is a fantastic writer, but I had no idea how much I would truly LOVE it and I do LOVE it! I mean this author truly did her job because she had me hook, line, and sinker with this novel. I may have a fan girl crush on her! Yep, that's how fabulous this novel was. I am not kidding----> If you are looking for an emotional read one that grips you from the first page then grab this novel! You will not be disappointed. Fans of Hopeless by Colleen Hoover, Reason to Breathe by Rebecca Donovan, The Edge of Never by J.A. Redmerski, and The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay will enjoy this novel! Yes, it's one of those. One that stays with you and you can't shake! Happy Reading! xoxo
*I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review*
March 31, 2013
Wow I just love this book! I started it around 11:00 last night and did not go to sleep till I finished it. The story and characters just drew me in. Ev is a cancer survivor that because of the brain tumor she had removed has lost 5 years of memories of her life. She is starting college and goes out with her new roommate to see a local band. Little does she know that the lead singer was once her boyfriend, not only her boyfriend but her soul mate. Tristan never knew why Ev left him just one day she didn't respond to his calls or texts. When they meet back up in the bar the connection between the two is undeniable and as Tristan realizes that she doesn't remember him he makes it his job to remind her.
The story is about giving Ev her memories back and the love that never dies. You will laugh and cry and want more. One of the best books I've read all year. Great job Crystal!
The story is about giving Ev her memories back and the love that never dies. You will laugh and cry and want more. One of the best books I've read all year. Great job Crystal!
March 30, 2013
This is one of the most emotional and wonderful stories that I have ever read. Evelyn gets a brain tumor that causes her to lose her memories of someone very close to her. They meet again later on, and she doesn't remember him. Tristan doesn't want to lose her again, so he makes the effort of taking her on a trip down memory lane. He shows her all of the videos that they have together in hopes of getting her heart back. The plot was great as well as all of the characters. It was so easy to get lost in the story as if you are a part of it. I loved being able to read in both main characters POVs so you are able to get inside both of their heads. This story will make you laugh, cry, and at times make you want to scream! I am looking forward to reading more from Crystal!!
September 28, 2014
Genre: NA romance
Cliffy? No, HFN. (Some might say HEA, but I don't.)
Sensuality: R
Ho-meter: H = manslut, h = H is her only lover
This was such a kitchen sink book. There was too much stuff going on between the brain cancer, the permanent memory loss, the evil parent, not one but TWO pregnancies, and acute leukemia on top of it. This would be a challenge for even the best writers - especially in just 250 pages - and this is far, far from the best writer.
To say that this novel needs copy-editing is the least of its problems.
Rating: 2.75
Cliffy? No, HFN. (Some might say HEA, but I don't.)
Sensuality: R
Ho-meter: H = manslut, h = H is her only lover
This was such a kitchen sink book. There was too much stuff going on between the brain cancer, the permanent memory loss, the evil parent, not one but TWO pregnancies, and acute leukemia on top of it. This would be a challenge for even the best writers - especially in just 250 pages - and this is far, far from the best writer.
To say that this novel needs copy-editing is the least of its problems.
Rating: 2.75
May 19, 2013
Will contain spoilers:::::::::
I think the story had potential, and I really liked the cancer part, but I had this idea that it would be a sweet story with a girl, that can´t remember her earlier boyfriend, and he will try through out the whole book to make her remember him with telling and showing her memories from their past......... it just wasn´t. It was kind of an insta-love story with memory loss. Meaning in my head; within the first three chapters you are told the couple are so meant for each other (without them really speaking together) and within a day they have sex, and their conversations afterwards only consists of cheesy words. I know that doesn´t mean that it wouldn´t be a story you wouldn´t love - but I think I have reached a point now, where I can say - insta-love just don´t do it for me.
The story starts with Evelyn, a 20 years old girl that just have survived brain cancer, just about to start on college, you hear her first evening when she is moving into her room that she shares with Adella. After ten minutes she decides that this girl is her BFF (they speak like ten words together) and they go to this bar to see a band playing. She meets the band, and discover that two of the boys in the band already know her, but she doesn´t remember them. One of them are our hero Tristan. He has been hurting over this girl for years, and won´t let her go again - and she just want to remember the four years of her life that she have lost during her cancer.
The same night she is at his house to see videos from their past, they kiss, the next morning they have sex.
The relationship between the two main characters feels very rushed, I would have wished that she at least would remember something from their time together, before something romantic happened between them, and not react on the fact that she saw a video with her 14 self loving this boy. It might have been special then between them, but both are adults now and have experienced things that should/could have changed them, and........ well it could just have been nice that they had known each other more than 12 hours. Giving me some story, so that I could follow too they had an connection other than just from the memories on the video.
It annoyed me when the word infinity and crazy-ass beautiful girl was repeated for every ten lines. That was pretty much the only thing they told each other all the time. There are no deep conversations, that could have helped me to see that what they have is not re-living the dream of what they had as teenagers.
Being told they are so infinity didn´t really convince me.
There were some other things that annoyed me a bit through out the book - some was the kind of things she couldn´t remember. I can understand that she can´t remember memories, or where the wine opener is, but her personality and things she normally do shouldn´t be something she can´t remember. Example; before cancer she is sassy of nature, but the first time she says a swear word she hold her mouth and tell like the church girl she is "I never swear". She always have loved to drink juice from the container, but that´s a thing she can´t remember either. She did still live through those 4 years with cancer, right?
There were things that seemed unrealistic to me.
And then there is a MEGA SPOILER here:::::::::
And then there is this whole thing with her mom being the villian.
Tristan and Evelyn lose contact after Evelyn is diagnosed with cancer, instead of telling her friends and Tristan what is going on (she knows that she quite sure will lose some of her memory at that time) she cut the connection to her friends herself, and let her mom do the telling for her. But what her mom do is not telling anybody, and forge her daughter´s name to make sure she will get an abortion, before her surgery.
I must honestly say that I hated that there needed to be a villian, when her actions could have been explained otherwise. Evelyn´s reason for not telling Tristan is because she knows he will say "do as the doctors and parents tell you". The doctor tell her that with all the cancer treatment she will receive the outcome of her pregnancy will not be good - but 5 years after she is pissed at her mom for not making her keep the baby. Didn´t she hear what the doctor said? You don´t worry about an another humans life? Selfish really.
And I really disliked that Evelyn (and everybody else really) blamed her mom that Tristan and Evelyn had been kept apart (I blame Evelyn myself, She knew she would lose her memory. Man up and tell people will you. It´s just as hard for relatives, as it is for her) Cancer is a serious business, and that in itself would have been villian enough for me.
But no - her mom is just one vicious bitch that dont like Tristan.
It was an okay story, the cancer part was well written, and what made me want to read it to the end, but the rest of the story - the love story - wasn´t what I had expected.
I think the story had potential, and I really liked the cancer part, but I had this idea that it would be a sweet story with a girl, that can´t remember her earlier boyfriend, and he will try through out the whole book to make her remember him with telling and showing her memories from their past......... it just wasn´t. It was kind of an insta-love story with memory loss. Meaning in my head; within the first three chapters you are told the couple are so meant for each other (without them really speaking together) and within a day they have sex, and their conversations afterwards only consists of cheesy words. I know that doesn´t mean that it wouldn´t be a story you wouldn´t love - but I think I have reached a point now, where I can say - insta-love just don´t do it for me.
The story starts with Evelyn, a 20 years old girl that just have survived brain cancer, just about to start on college, you hear her first evening when she is moving into her room that she shares with Adella. After ten minutes she decides that this girl is her BFF (they speak like ten words together) and they go to this bar to see a band playing. She meets the band, and discover that two of the boys in the band already know her, but she doesn´t remember them. One of them are our hero Tristan. He has been hurting over this girl for years, and won´t let her go again - and she just want to remember the four years of her life that she have lost during her cancer.
The same night she is at his house to see videos from their past, they kiss, the next morning they have sex.
The relationship between the two main characters feels very rushed, I would have wished that she at least would remember something from their time together, before something romantic happened between them, and not react on the fact that she saw a video with her 14 self loving this boy. It might have been special then between them, but both are adults now and have experienced things that should/could have changed them, and........ well it could just have been nice that they had known each other more than 12 hours. Giving me some story, so that I could follow too they had an connection other than just from the memories on the video.
It annoyed me when the word infinity and crazy-ass beautiful girl was repeated for every ten lines. That was pretty much the only thing they told each other all the time. There are no deep conversations, that could have helped me to see that what they have is not re-living the dream of what they had as teenagers.
Being told they are so infinity didn´t really convince me.
There were some other things that annoyed me a bit through out the book - some was the kind of things she couldn´t remember. I can understand that she can´t remember memories, or where the wine opener is, but her personality and things she normally do shouldn´t be something she can´t remember. Example; before cancer she is sassy of nature, but the first time she says a swear word she hold her mouth and tell like the church girl she is "I never swear". She always have loved to drink juice from the container, but that´s a thing she can´t remember either. She did still live through those 4 years with cancer, right?
There were things that seemed unrealistic to me.
And then there is a MEGA SPOILER here:::::::::
And then there is this whole thing with her mom being the villian.
Tristan and Evelyn lose contact after Evelyn is diagnosed with cancer, instead of telling her friends and Tristan what is going on (she knows that she quite sure will lose some of her memory at that time) she cut the connection to her friends herself, and let her mom do the telling for her. But what her mom do is not telling anybody, and forge her daughter´s name to make sure she will get an abortion, before her surgery.
I must honestly say that I hated that there needed to be a villian, when her actions could have been explained otherwise. Evelyn´s reason for not telling Tristan is because she knows he will say "do as the doctors and parents tell you". The doctor tell her that with all the cancer treatment she will receive the outcome of her pregnancy will not be good - but 5 years after she is pissed at her mom for not making her keep the baby. Didn´t she hear what the doctor said? You don´t worry about an another humans life? Selfish really.
And I really disliked that Evelyn (and everybody else really) blamed her mom that Tristan and Evelyn had been kept apart (I blame Evelyn myself, She knew she would lose her memory. Man up and tell people will you. It´s just as hard for relatives, as it is for her) Cancer is a serious business, and that in itself would have been villian enough for me.
But no - her mom is just one vicious bitch that dont like Tristan.
It was an okay story, the cancer part was well written, and what made me want to read it to the end, but the rest of the story - the love story - wasn´t what I had expected.
April 8, 2013
4.5 BEAUTIFUL, EMOTIONAL, HEART WRENCHING STARS
This is one of those reviews where you don't even know what to start with, I am still emotionally drained from this absolutely beautiful heart wrenching love story. Crystal D. Spears brought so much love and laughter into this very heart warming story about a young girl Evelyn who battles brain cancer in her teens. During remission, she decides to begin to enjoy her life since she spent many years battling the cancer. The story begins during Evelyn's remission from the brain cancer. She has just started college, met her new roommate and of course Tristian. Then the story of 'Evelyn and Tristian' begins with 'A Trip Down Memory Lane'. Enough said.....I don't want to reveal any more of the story. I like to keep my review about the contents without giving away important parts.
The author writes the book in the present but takes us 'Down Memory Lane' by sharing parts about Evelyn and Tristian's past. Crystal Spears did such an awesome job by intertwining Evelyn's past and present. The only reason this book did not get 5 stars from me is because I felt that so much of the story was rushed through. There was so much more potential to this story......I felt the author was skimming through really important parts. Again, this is just my opinion but I want to live and breathe the characters lives and in this story we only got to see a small part. This did not take away from the story in any way though, it was just me wanting more.
Definitely a book that is worth reading and I highly recommend this as a "MUST READ for 2013". Don't forget your box of tissues, because you will most certainly need them!
Congrats Crystal Spears on a Wonderful Job!
*Review by Kim, Guest Reviewer for S&S and this review may also be listed under her Goodreads account*
This is one of those reviews where you don't even know what to start with, I am still emotionally drained from this absolutely beautiful heart wrenching love story. Crystal D. Spears brought so much love and laughter into this very heart warming story about a young girl Evelyn who battles brain cancer in her teens. During remission, she decides to begin to enjoy her life since she spent many years battling the cancer. The story begins during Evelyn's remission from the brain cancer. She has just started college, met her new roommate and of course Tristian. Then the story of 'Evelyn and Tristian' begins with 'A Trip Down Memory Lane'. Enough said.....I don't want to reveal any more of the story. I like to keep my review about the contents without giving away important parts.
The author writes the book in the present but takes us 'Down Memory Lane' by sharing parts about Evelyn and Tristian's past. Crystal Spears did such an awesome job by intertwining Evelyn's past and present. The only reason this book did not get 5 stars from me is because I felt that so much of the story was rushed through. There was so much more potential to this story......I felt the author was skimming through really important parts. Again, this is just my opinion but I want to live and breathe the characters lives and in this story we only got to see a small part. This did not take away from the story in any way though, it was just me wanting more.
Definitely a book that is worth reading and I highly recommend this as a "MUST READ for 2013". Don't forget your box of tissues, because you will most certainly need them!
Congrats Crystal Spears on a Wonderful Job!
*Review by Kim, Guest Reviewer for S&S and this review may also be listed under her Goodreads account*
April 8, 2013
If I could give this book 10 stars - I would !!
Ev Beaumont is a cancer survivor. She was diagnoased with a brain tumor at the age of 16...she beat it..one side effect though is that she cannot remember her life for the past 4 years. After his "lost love" went missing 4 years ago, Tristan has never been the same. After finishing a set one night in his bar, Tristan can hardly breath when he turns to find Ev sitting at the band's table..
Where do I start with this book ? I was hooked after the first page and couldn't put it down. I laughed, sat on the edge of my seat, felt my heart ache, had tears streaming down my face and snot running down my chin, and was truly sad to reach the end of it. This story drew me in and captivated me to the point that I felt I was one of the characters going through this crazy journey with them. The writing was precise, the characters well rounded, the story was thought out and not rushed. The research was done so, as a reader, I knew exactly what was happening. The intensity of the love that these two characters share is so real, I cannot believe that this is not based on a true story.
Crystal Spears has found her niche. I have read some of Crystal's other books and was curious as to how this one was going to turn out. This is completely different than her other books and it shows. Her true talent just leaps off of these pages. The creativity of how she unravels this story amazed me. I have never read anything like it. Not only is it an excellent book, it sends a very clear message - that love can conquer all !
I am so very proud to support Crystal. I wish her the very best in her books to come and I truly hope she uses her talent to write more inspiring books like TALANIA. You hit the mark chickee !! <3
Ev Beaumont is a cancer survivor. She was diagnoased with a brain tumor at the age of 16...she beat it..one side effect though is that she cannot remember her life for the past 4 years. After his "lost love" went missing 4 years ago, Tristan has never been the same. After finishing a set one night in his bar, Tristan can hardly breath when he turns to find Ev sitting at the band's table..
Where do I start with this book ? I was hooked after the first page and couldn't put it down. I laughed, sat on the edge of my seat, felt my heart ache, had tears streaming down my face and snot running down my chin, and was truly sad to reach the end of it. This story drew me in and captivated me to the point that I felt I was one of the characters going through this crazy journey with them. The writing was precise, the characters well rounded, the story was thought out and not rushed. The research was done so, as a reader, I knew exactly what was happening. The intensity of the love that these two characters share is so real, I cannot believe that this is not based on a true story.
Crystal Spears has found her niche. I have read some of Crystal's other books and was curious as to how this one was going to turn out. This is completely different than her other books and it shows. Her true talent just leaps off of these pages. The creativity of how she unravels this story amazed me. I have never read anything like it. Not only is it an excellent book, it sends a very clear message - that love can conquer all !
I am so very proud to support Crystal. I wish her the very best in her books to come and I truly hope she uses her talent to write more inspiring books like TALANIA. You hit the mark chickee !! <3
April 5, 2013
There were times when I needed tissues because I was crying sad tears. There were times when I needed tissues because I was happy tears. This was a beautiful touching story of love, love lost and love found. And miracles we can't forget the miracles.
Don't read further if you don't want SPOILERS.
There were a few things that bugged me, like how even though she didn't remember him and had only known him 24 hrs ago she stripped naked. She was willing to just go stay at his house watching home videos with this guy she didn't remember. I just didn't think that would be how people would react. Also Drake came across as an older sibling he talked more mature and him calling Ev Sunshine made him feel older too yet he was you get than Tristan. That totally threw me.
I still loved this story though
Don't read further if you don't want SPOILERS.
There were a few things that bugged me, like how even though she didn't remember him and had only known him 24 hrs ago she stripped naked. She was willing to just go stay at his house watching home videos with this guy she didn't remember. I just didn't think that would be how people would react. Also Drake came across as an older sibling he talked more mature and him calling Ev Sunshine made him feel older too yet he was you get than Tristan. That totally threw me.
I still loved this story though
April 8, 2013
Beautiful and inspiring read. We meet Evelyn right away and learn her story and how amazingly strong this woman is after all she has been through. Losing 5 years worth of memories including the love of her life while fighting brain cancer. Let me tell you this amazing woman kicks brain cancers ASS. Then we are introduced to Tristan, the one with the broken heart. Thinking their love was forever he was left heart broken with no reason as to why. Can these two overcome all that has transpired the last five year? Can their love find a way back? Let me tell you that you certainly want to go out and buy this book to find out, cause it is a beautiful, scary, inspiring journey that these two embark on. Enjoy :)
April 6, 2013
Wow! I just finished reading Talania...a Trip Down Memory Lane and I am speechless. Never before has a piece of fiction grabbed ahold of me so tightly and refused to let go. I laughed and cried as I read this amazing tale of Evelyn and Tristan and their struggles. I was touched on a profound, personal level by Evelyn's battle with cancer and Tristan's unrelenting love for her. This book is an absolute must read. It is the most beautiful, inspiring piece of literature I have had the pleasure of reading, and I will most certainly be reading it again.
April 21, 2013
This is a great book. Evelyn has spent 4 years fighting cancer and she has lost memories for 5 years. She moves to Talania to go to college since she's in remission. When she comes across the man she loved for 3 years and he never knew what happened to her, he just thought she left him. Tristan and his brother Drake have a trunk with all the Evelyn Memories through those 3 years. He wants to help her with getting some of her memories back and to have her back. It's an amazing story of true love and how some terrible things try to take it all away. It is definitely worth the read!
June 6, 2013
Just wow. I'm not sure how to do justice to this book. I was all over the place-laughing, smiling and crying-often in the same chapter. This is a well-written book about an intense true love, heartbreak, reunion and ultimately triumph. I absolutely adore Tristan, new bbf to which others will have to live up to. Drake is also incredible. But Evelyn, she is the star. Every memory, every moment she shares with them, and us, is special. Her love and life are hard won. You will root for her. Soooooooooooo, read this book. Yeah, it will be worth every second.
April 9, 2013
This book made me cry more than once. A beautiful story about Evelyn, a 20yo young woman who lost 6 years of her life to a brain tumor. She attends Talania, the college she planned to attend with her Infinity, Trent, the man she loved before the tumor claimed her memories. Trent is torn apart to know his Infinity suffered so much without him due to her mother's interference. Can she reclaim her lost memories? Can the damaged caused by her mother be repaired?
July 13, 2013
I love the story... I love that this is the 2nd book I've read of Crystal Spears and I can see the signature on her books and didn't disappoint... It was sweet.. sad... amazing even... It goes fast... Could have been longer but the idea is there. I wonder if there is more to this story but otherwise, I still liked how it ended.
September 9, 2013
Heart wrenching but beautiful story of true love. Tristan is all every woman looks for in a man, and Evelyn is very lucky to have him to infinity. Loved the twists and turns, the supporting characters made this story all so real. Hmmm...does this mean there is a story in the works for Drake?
April 4, 2013
This book was an emotional rollercoaster... I went from laughing, to crying, to having a big goofy grin on my face over and over again. I love a book that can draw me in emotionally! Definately worth reading!!!
March 31, 2013
Loved it!!! My emotions were all over the place while reading this!! I loved the love between Ev and Tristan!!! That is what true love and soul mates are all about! He never gave up and he never let her push him away....I can't say enough good things about this book!!!
April 19, 2013
Loved the book. Hated the title... I thought the theme of this book was very interesting and important. This was a very deep book to read - and I am so glad I read it.
I feel like I should know more about cancer survivors... thanks for this book.
I feel like I should know more about cancer survivors... thanks for this book.
March 29, 2013
I've got to do a review and giveaway. I'll have to buy tons of copies ans then make everyone read it. It was so touching.
July 12, 2014
3,5
Acabei e me peguei pensando: o enredo é diferente, os personagens são bons, mas qual a razão de eu não estar sentindo aquela satisfação peculiar ao término da leitura???
O ditado que diz "não há bem que sempre dure nem mal que nunca acabe" se aplica perfeitamente aqui. Ev, Tristan, seus familiares e amigos passam por algumas coisas que me fizeram exclamar: "poxa, será que não há sossego pra esse povo? essa montanha russa é necessária?" Perguntas essas para as quais eu ainda não tenho resposta.
Ev e Tristan se conheceram adolescentes, ela com 14 e ele com 15. Apesar de tão novos, a paixão entre eles era de gente adulta, um amor mesmo, assim eles o viveram intensamente por 3 verões. Até que, do nada, Ev some e Tristan fica sem respostas.
Anos depois, por acaso (mas quando lemos vemos que não foi tão acaso assim) eles se reencontram, só que Ev não lembra de Tristan. Na verdade, ela não lembra de mais nada entre os 14 e 20 anos em razão do tratamento de um câncer no cérebro.
Convenientemente, ambos possuem baús cheios de recordações, assim, Tristan se empenha em dar para Ev todas as lembranças possíveis, pois ele nunca deixou de amá-la e quer viver de novo aquela relação interrompida.
Posso falar sinceramente que em vários momentos eu fui surpreendida pelo desenrolar da narrativa. À medida que as coisas iam acontecendo, íamos acompanhando o passado e presente deles paralelamente. Gostei como a autora trabalhou isso, pois trabalhar com o flash back e fazê-lo de modo a não ficar confuso ou de modo que não atrapalhe o presente dos personagens é relativamente complicado.
Todos no livro são muito carismáticos e fofos, principalmente o Tristan, Drake e Ev. Deu pra sentir o amor entre eles, a dedicação, a entrega e o comprometimento com a felicidade um do outro.
É um romance de altos e baixos. Há momentos de felicidade, mas presente aquele sentimento de que pode acontecer alguma merda num futuro próximo. Aqui que eu me permito criticar o estilo da autora. Ela poderia ter desenvolvido melhor a história, principalmente no começo, que me pareceu meio corrido, a Ev aceitando fácil demais certas coisas e se entregando rápido. Por outro lado ela é uma moça de 20 anos, desmemoriada e querendo acima de tudo viver e recuperar o tempo perdido...
Acontece que é um livro curto, pouco mais de 200p, acabando por ter momentos meio atropelados, mas nada que realmente prejudicasse o enredo, já que pouco depois eu estava bem a vontade com os personagens e aceitando mais facilmente as situações.
Mais de uma coisa me incomodou no livro, principalmente . Algumas coisas referentes à doença dela não foram muito críveis e, como falei antes, da rapidez do começo.
No geral, foi uma leitura diferente e super rápida. Foi bem interessante fugir do enredo padrão, embora eu tenha ficado meio triste em certas partes.
Acabei e me peguei pensando: o enredo é diferente, os personagens são bons, mas qual a razão de eu não estar sentindo aquela satisfação peculiar ao término da leitura???
O ditado que diz "não há bem que sempre dure nem mal que nunca acabe" se aplica perfeitamente aqui. Ev, Tristan, seus familiares e amigos passam por algumas coisas que me fizeram exclamar: "poxa, será que não há sossego pra esse povo? essa montanha russa é necessária?" Perguntas essas para as quais eu ainda não tenho resposta.
Ev e Tristan se conheceram adolescentes, ela com 14 e ele com 15. Apesar de tão novos, a paixão entre eles era de gente adulta, um amor mesmo, assim eles o viveram intensamente por 3 verões. Até que, do nada, Ev some e Tristan fica sem respostas.
Anos depois, por acaso (mas quando lemos vemos que não foi tão acaso assim) eles se reencontram, só que Ev não lembra de Tristan. Na verdade, ela não lembra de mais nada entre os 14 e 20 anos em razão do tratamento de um câncer no cérebro.
Convenientemente, ambos possuem baús cheios de recordações, assim, Tristan se empenha em dar para Ev todas as lembranças possíveis, pois ele nunca deixou de amá-la e quer viver de novo aquela relação interrompida.
Posso falar sinceramente que em vários momentos eu fui surpreendida pelo desenrolar da narrativa. À medida que as coisas iam acontecendo, íamos acompanhando o passado e presente deles paralelamente. Gostei como a autora trabalhou isso, pois trabalhar com o flash back e fazê-lo de modo a não ficar confuso ou de modo que não atrapalhe o presente dos personagens é relativamente complicado.
Todos no livro são muito carismáticos e fofos, principalmente o Tristan, Drake e Ev. Deu pra sentir o amor entre eles, a dedicação, a entrega e o comprometimento com a felicidade um do outro.
É um romance de altos e baixos. Há momentos de felicidade, mas presente aquele sentimento de que pode acontecer alguma merda num futuro próximo. Aqui que eu me permito criticar o estilo da autora. Ela poderia ter desenvolvido melhor a história, principalmente no começo, que me pareceu meio corrido, a Ev aceitando fácil demais certas coisas e se entregando rápido. Por outro lado ela é uma moça de 20 anos, desmemoriada e querendo acima de tudo viver e recuperar o tempo perdido...
Acontece que é um livro curto, pouco mais de 200p, acabando por ter momentos meio atropelados, mas nada que realmente prejudicasse o enredo, já que pouco depois eu estava bem a vontade com os personagens e aceitando mais facilmente as situações.
Mais de uma coisa me incomodou no livro, principalmente . Algumas coisas referentes à doença dela não foram muito críveis e, como falei antes, da rapidez do começo.
No geral, foi uma leitura diferente e super rápida. Foi bem interessante fugir do enredo padrão, embora eu tenha ficado meio triste em certas partes.
i-m-a-quitter
April 11, 2013It pains me to say this, but this is a DNF for me.
I really liked the storyline. Evelyn (Ev) found out she had cancer when she was 16 (I think). Up to that point, she had spent her summers and breaks in Laguna, where she met Tristan when she was 14 and they fell in love. But one Thanksgiving, Ev never comes back and Tristan is heartbroken and lost. He can't figure out why Ev never came back and he completely lost contact with her.
Because of the cancer Ev can't remember anything from the years 14 through 19, when she finally beats the cancer. Her family thought it was best to move on from those memories and not try to bring them back.
The story is written in dual POVs and starts out in present day with Ev in college. She just happens to be going to college in the same town where Tristan is in a semi-famous band. Her college roomate happens to be dating one of the band members. Her first night out she "meets" Tristan again but doesn't remember him.
Tristan is crushed to find out that cancer was the reason Ev never came back and he vows to take Ev on a trip down memory lane hoping she will fall in love with him again. The story (at least as far as I got) flashes between past and present.
Unfortunately, I found it all to be a bit far-fetched. Or maybe it just didn't build up enough, or happened too fast. I don't know. I also found the dialogue to be really cheesy. I didn't feel a lot of what Tristan and Ev went through. I never really felt a connection to the characters.
I think I made it to around 35% before I quit. It just wasn't for me.
I really liked the storyline. Evelyn (Ev) found out she had cancer when she was 16 (I think). Up to that point, she had spent her summers and breaks in Laguna, where she met Tristan when she was 14 and they fell in love. But one Thanksgiving, Ev never comes back and Tristan is heartbroken and lost. He can't figure out why Ev never came back and he completely lost contact with her.
Because of the cancer Ev can't remember anything from the years 14 through 19, when she finally beats the cancer. Her family thought it was best to move on from those memories and not try to bring them back.
The story is written in dual POVs and starts out in present day with Ev in college. She just happens to be going to college in the same town where Tristan is in a semi-famous band. Her college roomate happens to be dating one of the band members. Her first night out she "meets" Tristan again but doesn't remember him.
Tristan is crushed to find out that cancer was the reason Ev never came back and he vows to take Ev on a trip down memory lane hoping she will fall in love with him again. The story (at least as far as I got) flashes between past and present.
Unfortunately, I found it all to be a bit far-fetched. Or maybe it just didn't build up enough, or happened too fast. I don't know. I also found the dialogue to be really cheesy. I didn't feel a lot of what Tristan and Ev went through. I never really felt a connection to the characters.
I think I made it to around 35% before I quit. It just wasn't for me.
January 26, 2014
3.5 Almost-there-but-not-quite stars!!!
I am a little disappointed because I expected something more to what I've just read. But hey! The concept's nice, it really is. It's what drew me to read it in the first place. The alternate POV between Ev and Tristan was good, too. I even liked the characters. But, i don't know... I just didn't feel it that much. I don't hate it, but it was just...ehhh, an okay read.
As I have said, I really liked the concept. I just think that the beginning was kind of off for me. Maybe a little forced or rushed? I don't know.
But yeah, it did have its moments!
One particular part I liked was when they were watching the videos they recorded on certain occasions
And come on who can resist a boy band? Not to mention that all members are hot? So yeah, I liked that, too.
Over-all, it was an okay read!
I am a little disappointed because I expected something more to what I've just read. But hey! The concept's nice, it really is. It's what drew me to read it in the first place. The alternate POV between Ev and Tristan was good, too. I even liked the characters. But, i don't know... I just didn't feel it that much. I don't hate it, but it was just...ehhh, an okay read.
As I have said, I really liked the concept. I just think that the beginning was kind of off for me. Maybe a little forced or rushed? I don't know.
But yeah, it did have its moments!
One particular part I liked was when they were watching the videos they recorded on certain occasions
And come on who can resist a boy band? Not to mention that all members are hot? So yeah, I liked that, too.
Over-all, it was an okay read!
August 3, 2013
3.5 Stars
Wow – what a powerful premise for this book! This is the story of Evelyn, who has fought and beat brain cancer and in the process lost a large part of her teenage memories. She is in remission and only wants to make a new start. By chance, she meets up with the one person who can help fill in those memories – Tristan. As you can imagine, this was a very difficult and heartbreaking moment for him to realize that she doesn’t remember him or any moment they shared. He becomes determined to give Evelyn’s memories back to her, piece by piece.
I really loved the way the memories were intertwined with the current time and there were moments, both past and present, that made me laugh and tear up. I did have a difficult time fully connecting with Evelyn. And maybe because of that, I felt I could have handled more depth and explosiveness to really suck me in to everything that comes along with her battle with cancer and trying to get her memories back.
It was certainly painful to read about all she has had to deal with and continues to deal with and how it impacts not only her life, but her family’s, Tristan’s, Drake’s, and her other friends. In the end, I was left with hope but felt a bit uneasy wondering what’s going to happen next.
Wow – what a powerful premise for this book! This is the story of Evelyn, who has fought and beat brain cancer and in the process lost a large part of her teenage memories. She is in remission and only wants to make a new start. By chance, she meets up with the one person who can help fill in those memories – Tristan. As you can imagine, this was a very difficult and heartbreaking moment for him to realize that she doesn’t remember him or any moment they shared. He becomes determined to give Evelyn’s memories back to her, piece by piece.
I really loved the way the memories were intertwined with the current time and there were moments, both past and present, that made me laugh and tear up. I did have a difficult time fully connecting with Evelyn. And maybe because of that, I felt I could have handled more depth and explosiveness to really suck me in to everything that comes along with her battle with cancer and trying to get her memories back.
It was certainly painful to read about all she has had to deal with and continues to deal with and how it impacts not only her life, but her family’s, Tristan’s, Drake’s, and her other friends. In the end, I was left with hope but felt a bit uneasy wondering what’s going to happen next.
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