Kiss, Date, Love, Hate

Feb 11, 2012 Stephanie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-fiction, ya-science-fiction

*Kiss, Date, Love, Hate* is a perfect YA romantic comedy - really, really funny, but with surprising depth by the end, and with fun SF elements in the mix. Just right!

15-year-old Lex and her best friend, George, are on a one-week film course when they discover a computer game that can actually change people's feelings and even appearances. At first, it just feels like a game - and like the perfect way for each of them to get their long-term crushes (also on the film course) to notice them. Every...more *Kiss, Date, Love, Hate* is a perfect YA romantic comedy - really, really funny, but with surprising depth by the end, and with fun SF elements in the mix. Just right!

15-year-old Lex and her best friend, George, are on a one-week film course when they discover a computer game that can actually change people's feelings and even appearances. At first, it just feels like a game - and like the perfect way for each of them to get their long-term crushes (also on the film course) to notice them. Every night they change their friends' settings and their own for the next day...but as the week goes on, Lex realizes she's been wrong about an awful lot of her assumptions, both about her friends and about herself.

This is a really funny book, with moments that made me snort out loud with laughter, and it's fast-paced and so much fun - with a really, really dreamy romantic hero I ended up adoring - but it isn't a light or shallow book at all. By the end, we come to understand Lex and what's really driving her in a way that adds so much emotion to the mix. She's been desperate to fit in and be "normal" for the past four years, ever since meningitis changed her life. This computer game has been a way to finally take charge and MAKE her life what it was always "supposed" to look like...

...and there's a very serious subplot about disability, underneath the bright, sparkling humor, that really, really spoke to me.

Ever since I got about 3/4 of the way through the book, I've been making comparisons between Lex's situation and others I know, including my own. It made me really think about how tempting it is - how irresistible it can seem - to just pass as "normal" as often as possible, no matter what the price, when it comes to disability issues... (For instance, I will do almost anything to avoid having to admit out loud to a new or slight acquaintance that I have M.E./CFS, and that the real reason I'm not doing X,Y, or Z is not because I just don't feel like it/can't be bothered, but because I CAN'T.)

...but also how toxic that attitude can be for self-esteem.

Oh, how I rooted for Lex - and oh, what a perfect, perfect ending she got. I LOVED it!

I can't wait to share this book with my teenaged niece, and I'll definitely be re-reading it myself. (less)

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Mar 18, 2012 Namratha Kumar rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: sci-fi, ya-lit, books-i-love-gollum-style

LEX<-->GEORGE<-->JESS<-->DREW<-->GEMMA<-->MATT

Lex used to carry on with Matt. Due to a certain incident, Lex broke up with Matt. Matt is now getting hot ‘n’ heavy with Gemma. Jess and George are Lex’s two best friends. George is madly in love with Jess but Jess does not reciprocate his feelings. Jess has a step-cousin, Drew. Drew gets along splendidly with Lex as buddies-in-perpetual-trouble. Lex, however, may also be attracted to Drew. But how is that possible when...more

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Dec 06, 2012 Maya rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: given, ya

This was my first Luisa Plaja book and I just have to say that I love the way she writes. Her writing style is very funny and easy to read, and she has a very authentic teenage voice. I read this in a day, and found it very hard to put down as I was enjoying it so much! It was also really funny, Luisa must have a fab sense of humour! There were several laugh out loud moment when I just couldn't stop cackling and everyone in the room gave me weird looks . . .

I think the premise of the story was s...more

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Feb 10, 2012 Ria [The Beaucoup Review] rated it 5 of 5 stars

First things first, this book was amazing. The writing style really draws you in and you want to continue. Luisa has a way of making you read on, whether you have time or not [resulting in over-due homework!].

The story-line is a great twist, not going into the game, but the game happening in real life. I would definitely re-read this, over and over again. I loved all the characters, but my favourite is Lex. A typical choice, as she's the main character, but she has a lot to cope with. You find o...more

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May 27, 2012 Cassy rated it 1 of 5 stars

*I won this through the goodreads giveaways*
I really was bored reading this book. I think it was the wrong genre of book for me. I am more into books that have more, lets call it 'substance' to it. I really hate reading about teen drama and about one girls problem with her ex, the people supposed to be her friends and some hot best friend's cousin? Did i get that right...the complications of the relationships and the plain ridiculousness of her problems, along with her magically appearing curvac...more

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Apr 02, 2012 Jessica (Booked Up!) rated it 4 of 5 stars

This latest novel from Luisa Plaja is all about Lex and her nerdy Lord Of The Rings loving friend, George. The pair test out a brand new computer game, similar to The Sims. But then George discovers the game doesn't even work, at least not on screen. But what about in real life?
I had heard some very positive reviews for Kiss Date Love Hate for a while now, so when I received a copy for review, I couldn't wait to get stuck in. Like always, Luisa has managed to write a fantastic novel on relation...more This latest novel from Luisa Plaja is all about Lex and her nerdy Lord Of The Rings loving friend, George. The pair test out a brand new computer game, similar to The Sims. But then George discovers the game doesn't even work, at least not on screen. But what about in real life?
I had heard some very positive reviews for Kiss Date Love Hate for a while now, so when I received a copy for review, I couldn't wait to get stuck in. Like always, Luisa has managed to write a fantastic novel on relationships, family problems and having the power to change lives at the click of a mouse.
I had never, ever read a book like this before. Which just proves how unique it is. Sure, there are plenty of girly, chick lit reads about relationships out there, but a magic game that can make your dream crush lust after you by force? So different! And if you played The Sims like I did (I admit - it was my whole childhood!) then you will understand just how amazing this book is!
All of the characters were realistic and exciting to read about. You had; Matt and Drew, the two boys that play with Lex's head and heart; Jess, Lex's best friend who is obsessed with school work; and finally there was Gemma, the girl that Lex hates with a vengence! All of these characters will have you smiling, and I promise that you will fall for at least one of the boys in Kiss Date Love Hate. For me it was Drew all the way.
As well as plenty of humour in this novel, (mainly from the hilarious George), there was also a sad, heart wrenching shock at the end that made this book more mature and deep. I think at a first glance, people don't realise how powerful this book is, but it just goes to show that you can't dismiss a book by a couple of chapters and the blurb. You have to read a little more before the depth of this novel really hits you.
Whilst reading this book, I found myself just stopping and checking out the front cover a LOT! I mean, it's just gorgeous, isn't it? The tiny people, the cleverly pixelated title, the shiny pink cover - wonderful! That's something that drew me in to this book in the first place, that and the unique premise.
To conclude, this book was addictive, hilarious, sometimes sad, unusual and pretty crazy! I just wish it could of gone on for longer than it did. This was such a treat and I can't wait to check out even more from Luisa Plaja. 4 and a half stars from me.(less)

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Jan 31, 2012 Jenni rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: british-author, contemporary, ya

From the moment I saw the cover to this book I knew I had to read it as soon as I could, whilst I’m not remotely a pink person the little computer characters and generally pixelated look of it really appealed to my inner geek. Then there was the synopsis, the idea that Lex could influence real life via a computer game, an intriguing concept. I thought I had a bit of an inkling of what to expect from this book, my expectations were met and exceeded my far.

I loved the plot of this book, Lex is mad...more From the moment I saw the cover to this book I knew I had to read it as soon as I could, whilst I’m not remotely a pink person the little computer characters and generally pixelated look of it really appealed to my inner geek. Then there was the synopsis, the idea that Lex could influence real life via a computer game, an intriguing concept. I thought I had a bit of an inkling of what to expect from this book, my expectations were met and exceeded my far.

I loved the plot of this book, Lex is made to go on a film-making course over half term – she sees it as a punishment but her headteacher sees it as an opportunity for her to reach her full potential. Along with her on the course are her friends, and her ex-boyfriend and Lex’s former best friend who masterminded the break up. Lex’s friend George shows her a computer game Life, Love, Looks that his dad is testing, they build characters for everyone on the course and then Lex starts to have fun making alterations to them so that the digital versions match up better with her ideal situation.

This wouldn’t be a great contemporary story if there wasn’t some brilliant romantic tension, and this book certainly ticks that box. Lex is still lusting after Matt, her ex-boyfriend, but is increasingly aware of her fellow always in trouble student Drew. He seems to have ideas about Lex, but she’s too hung up on Matt to really consider him… well maybe. Whilst Lex is trying to work out her feelings, her next door neighbour and close friend George is trying his hardest to get Jess to notice him despite her opinion that high school boys are all far too immature.

The characters within this book are brilliant, I found myself comparing them to some of the people I was at school with. These characters are all so real, the way they talk to one another and relate to one another really rings true. I loved the way that so many of the characters had hidden depths, it was a real pleasure getting to know them all better. Lex is a great leading lady, whilst at times I found her view of things difficult to agree with felt I could understand her really well. I loved Drew too, he’s the kind of male character I know the teen me would love because the grown up me still does!

It’s really hard to explain why I loved this book so much without spoiling the reading experience. I was really enjoying it and then reached a point where for me it went from being a great book to being an absolutely brilliant one. When I finished it I marvelled at the cleverness of the book, and how it evolved over the course of just under 300 pages. It’s a week now since I finished it, and my thoughts still keep returning to it.

I think this book will be a really valuable read for all teenagers, it’s prompted me to start a list of books that my future library must own. I know I’m going to be recommending it to anyone who’ll listen.(less)

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Jun 08, 2012 Luna rated it 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

Kiss, Date, Love, Hate isn’t exactly what I expected it to be. It’s so much more than just a fun read.

Lex is a great character; she’s sarcastic, rebellious and hates school. To begin with I thought it was just because she was a bit of a brat but there is a really good reason behind her behaviour and I didn’t see it coming. I since re-read bits of Kiss, Date, Love, Hate since and the way Luisa Playa has woven everything together is impressive. Once you know you can spot it but until the...more

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Feb 06, 2012 Vivienne Serendipity Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: to-review, review-soon

I really do love the way Luisa writes.She is funny, warm and extremely entertaining whilst behind the scenes she is juggling real issues that affect teenagers at the same time. She sugar coats the morals until you have unknowingly swallowed them and only when you have had time to digest them do you begin to analyse what you have read. I am actually convinced that Luisa is a bit of a fibber - she has tried to convince me she is the same age as me; but she writes with such an authentic teenage voi...more I really do love the way Luisa writes.She is funny, warm and extremely entertaining whilst behind the scenes she is juggling real issues that affect teenagers at the same time. She sugar coats the morals until you have unknowingly swallowed them and only when you have had time to digest them do you begin to analyse what you have read. I am actually convinced that Luisa is a bit of a fibber - she has tried to convince me she is the same age as me; but she writes with such an authentic teenage voice, I am absolutely positive she is a 16 year old girl with attitude! I swear I haven't come across a more authentic teenage voice and I should know (living with teen wannabees!)

Lex the main character of the story, is just brilliant. She is seen as having issues which her friends feel she plays on a bit. To me, she is a fighter, who just wants to be accepted for who she is and to be treated just like everyone else. She is happy to label herself, but I felt that this was just to cover her feelings. She wants the past forgotten, so that the future can begin.

Within the story, Lex and George discover they can change the relationships between their friends through a game! Imagine if you could really do that! Lex has fun altering her appearance through it too and I found myself wishing I had access to such a game, becoming disgruntled at only having a slimming app on my camera.

The ending of the book, came as quite a surprise. I am actually having to gag myself in order to not reveal the revelations at the end of the book. Luisa is a master of disguise and I had no idea it would end the way it did.

Luisa makes you think about what being normal really is. Society has so many labels for every different aspect of a person, that it makes you wonder who can actually call themselves normal. We all have aspects about us that make us different from each other, so should we be labelled because of them?

If you enjoyed The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler, you will love this one too.

I discovered something whilst reading the book; something really daft which I didn't realise I had a problem with until I read this book. Absolutely nothing to do with Luisa's writing at all really; I just discovered I struggle with stories without chapters. How anal is that? I just like the structure of chapters so that I can break it down into sections to read. I wonder if I am alone in my bizarreness! But like I said, it has absolutely nothing to do with the quality of this book. Buy it, it is fabulous!
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Feb 09, 2012 Jessica (Jess Hearts Books) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Many girls wish that they could magically get their ex-boyfriend to like them again, or even for something as simple as bigger boobs and longer hair. If given the chance I’m sure that we’d all change something about ourselves or our lives so when our heroine Lex and her best friend George play a mysterious online Sims like game starring not only themselves but also their group of friends who can blame them for tinkering around with the online settings? Giving themselves a better image and adding...more

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Apr 06, 2012 Lynsey added it

Kiss Date Love Hate is Luisa Plaja’s fourth contemporary novel and my first taste of her writing. I was incredibly intrigued by the premise as I’m a huge SIMS fan and what player hasn’t put themselves into the game at some point?! It’s fun to think that you can manipulate your life through the game to suit your own purpose but you have to accept that this may have consequences of its own.

I have to start this review with an admission. When I first started reading the book, it was like overhearin...more

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Feb 14, 2012 Nessa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: won-in-goodreads-giveaway, review, fiction

Kiss, Date, Love, Hate was brilliant. I really, really enjoyed it. I don't normally read books about teenagers falling in love (well, they usually have a more supernatural slant if I do) and getting into fights and such, so it was rather refreshing. I blasted through this book in the space of about two hours, I liked it that much.

It tells the story of Lex, a girl who seems to always be in trouble with her teachers, and isn't enjoying school at the moment – her friends are in a tangled web of boy...more Kiss, Date, Love, Hate was brilliant. I really, really enjoyed it. I don't normally read books about teenagers falling in love (well, they usually have a more supernatural slant if I do) and getting into fights and such, so it was rather refreshing. I blasted through this book in the space of about two hours, I liked it that much.

It tells the story of Lex, a girl who seems to always be in trouble with her teachers, and isn't enjoying school at the moment – her friends are in a tangled web of boyfriends and preparing for GCSEs and arguments that stem from those aforementioned points.

Her geeky friend, George helps his father with game testing, and Lex just so happens to come over when he's fiddling around with a new game called Pygmalion. Much like The Sims or Second Life, you can make your own avatar with extremely personalised settings, but this game is different. Now, while any changes you make to your avatar on The Sims stay on your hard drive, Pygmalion actually affects your real life. Eyes change colour, bodies become curvier, and relationships really do change according to what you put into the game.

Whilst on a film course during a school break, Lex begins to notice these changes, and while she enjoys them at first, they soon go out of control. Her ex-boyfriend becomes a bit too lovey-dovey for her tastes, and the personality changes in her friends aren't always as desirable as they first seem. It all culminates in a massively uncontrollable situation that Lex has to try and defuse near the end of the book, seeing as the game's settings will lock up and become permanent if she doesn't.

I really loved the main character, Lex. She's witty, funny, and I found the 'reveal' near the end of the book to be really quite touching. All the characters feel rather human, to be honest, led into stupid situations and then having to pay for the consequences... that's teenagers for you!

The prose reminded a lot of the Ally's World series, the extremely popular (well, when I was a teenager anyway) British novels about an eccentric girl and her family in friends. In fact, Lex isn't to dissimilar to Ally herself. It was a fun little trip down memory lane, to say the least.

I would have loved to read this book as a teenager, though I really enjoyed it as an adult. Great characters, and an interesting idea done just right. My only complaint would be that the ending was a little bit too vague, and I wanted to find out about the Pygmalion game and why it was affecting real life so much, but hey. 4.5/5.(less)

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Jan 18, 2013 Lina Khairunisa rated it 4 of 5 stars

I love the idea turning everything that happens in just a digital game becomes true in a real life. It's like you can control everything around you and just redo it if you don't like it or what, it's sick man! The twisted love between Lex, Matt, and Drew I just love it. From the moment the character Drew appears in the page, I knew the ending already. It's a bit cliche but I enjoy it so much. Luisa did a good job in combining gaming world with reality and relates it to teenagers' problem-self es...more

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Sep 06, 2012 Jordyn rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, sci-fi, ya, uk

Lex's group of friends have been falling apart for a while, but when her and her best friend George get their hands on a Sims-like video game that lets them make changes to people's looks, life outlook, and even who they fall in love with, they never dream that those changes will carry over into the real world. But when they do, Lex sees the perfect opportunity to get back with her ex-boyfriend, Matt, who's currently in love with a girl (Gemma) who used to be one of Lex's closest friends.

I love...more

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Dec 24, 2012 Rachel rated it 4 of 5 stars

A lovely, light, girly read from Luisa Plaja, what more do I need to say? I definetly recommend this to tween/teen girls who are looking for a unique and enjoyable read.

Lex Murphy has a strange group of friends. Not only have they all had their fair share of fall outs and break ups but her "supposed" best friend is too involved in her studies to pay attention to her, her other best friend stole her boyfriend and George, her clueless boy buddy is obsessing over a girl who won't even give him a se...more A lovely, light, girly read from Luisa Plaja, what more do I need to say? I definetly recommend this to tween/teen girls who are looking for a unique and enjoyable read.

Lex Murphy has a strange group of friends. Not only have they all had their fair share of fall outs and break ups but her "supposed" best friend is too involved in her studies to pay attention to her, her other best friend stole her boyfriend and George, her clueless boy buddy is obsessing over a girl who won't even give him a second glance. Then when she finds out that an online game actually affects what happens to them all in real life how can she resist seeing what would happen if she altered a little thing here or there...

I've always admired how Luisa's stories have a normal teenage set up with a little bit of magic incorporated into them and this one was no exception. A game that changes people in real life. Genius, or what?! I really enjoyed the original plot line. I need to admit that when I first heard that part of the story would focus on film making I was sceptical because I thought it would be quite boring, but it turned out not to play a big part in it so it was fine. I'm also not the biggest fan of chick-lit novels so the rating 4/5 is a pretty good one! :)

I also quite liked the characters and all the twists some had. My favourite character was probably Lex or Drew. Lex was a great main character but I probably couldn't have done what she done, I wouldn't have the guts to change people's personalities! I liked her on a whole, she fit well for the book. She had a fiery, stubborn side to her which I couldn't help but like and, at some points, find comical. At the start with the little love triangle of Matt and Drew I really wanted her to get back with Matt. Then when I found out about the little... twist, I started warming up to Drew. I really liked Drew's bad boy personality with a softer side and I just started thinking how great they would be together. However, I am not giving anything away!

Overall I found Kiss, Date, Love, Hate a light, girly, enjoyable read that tween/teen girls should definetly check out! It has a really original storyline, great and relatable characters and unsuspecting twists! If you haven't already picked this up I suggest you do so now!

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Mar 30, 2012 Alice (The Reader Room) rated it 4 of 5 stars

When I first heard of Kiss Date Love Hate, the premise intrigued me but it looked a little young so I wasn't sure if I would like it. Despite not requesting a copy of KDLH I received a copy and decided to give it a go. Fortunately for me I did as I ended up really enjoying it.

The start of the book seemed a little juvenile but once I finally got into the flow of it and actually remembered what I was like at 15 I was able to connect with Lex and understand her choices a little better.

Plaja is real...more

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Mar 17, 2012 Zoe Crook rated it 5 of 5 stars

OK, it's official. My favourite book by Luisa Plaja has been replaced by this one! I love everything about it. The comedy, romance, magic, mystery. Over the period of time I read this it I couldn't stop. This involved lots of late nights and homework with no effort, but it was worth it... :D

Lex Murphy feels like she doesn't fit in. Her world is falling apart around her - her boyfriend, Matt, left her for her worst enemy, her best friend is deserting her for schoolwork and nobody understands her....more OK, it's official. My favourite book by Luisa Plaja has been replaced by this one! I love everything about it. The comedy, romance, magic, mystery. Over the period of time I read this it I couldn't stop. This involved lots of late nights and homework with no effort, but it was worth it... :D

Lex Murphy feels like she doesn't fit in. Her world is falling apart around her - her boyfriend, Matt, left her for her worst enemy, her best friend is deserting her for schoolwork and nobody understands her. Apart from Drew, the mysterious bad boy. But she wants Matt back, right? Just as more problems delve into Lex's life, her friend George introduces her to a new video game. At first they play around with their avatars: for example; they make Lex's hair longer, make all the girls swoon for George, and - best of all - Lex can get revenge.
Lex and George wake up the next day and find out that all their changes have come true. As perfect and exciting as it all seems, they begin to regret it.

I think all the ideas in this novel are very unique and the ending is very unpredictable. In some chapters I am laughing my head off and in some I want to tear the book apart (but then stick it back together of course).

All the characters are brilliant. The difference between them all make all the different relationships interesting. Which leads onto another thing.. love triangles! I could go on for ages about how all the relationships are amazing and gripping but then I'd be writing pages....! They are relateable and I particularly liked the nerdiness involved in this book for some reason. This is probably for the fact that I love films and the whole concept of them. My only criticism of the characters is the number - there are lots of characters of which some only say a few lines. In my opinion, I think they were quite pointless. I also don't know which four characters are on the cover - Lex, Drew George, Gemma? Lex, Drew, Matt, Jess? Hmm...

Another of my favourite things about this book is the brilliant message it sends out to a lot of teenagers. At some point in our lives, almost everyone has wanted to change something about the way they look. I know several girls at my school that think they're ugly and fat so slaver layers of make-up on themselves. At the end of the book, Lex learns to accept the way she is. Even though we may not want to admit it, we have all wanted something different with our life and Luisa has grabbed that concept and drawn it into an amazing book.

I 100% definitely recommend this book. I would happily read it again and again and I am sure I speak for many. All of Luisa's books are perfect for any kind of teenage girl - she tops it every time.(less)

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Jul 24, 2012 Liz rated it 4 of 5 stars

4.25/5

Kiss Date Love Hate was such a fun read. Though it’d seem fantastic to be able to control real life through a computer game, sadly things are never that easy, as Lex and her friend George found out. I loved how they realised what they truly wanted by the end of the book, and I was left with a really happy feeling at the end – this was definitely a feel good book!

Lex was a very likeable character and I warmed to her immediately. She was very relatable and definitely a friend I’d love to hav...more 4.25/5

Kiss Date Love Hate was such a fun read. Though it’d seem fantastic to be able to control real life through a computer game, sadly things are never that easy, as Lex and her friend George found out. I loved how they realised what they truly wanted by the end of the book, and I was left with a really happy feeling at the end – this was definitely a feel good book!

Lex was a very likeable character and I warmed to her immediately. She was very relatable and definitely a friend I’d love to have. I loved her jokes and humour and the nicknames she gave to things such as “Chairs of Doom” and “Sir Trench of Foot” for her teacher. It was all of these little things that really added to her character and made her so likeable. Though I didn’t always agree with her, I was rooting for her from the start. I could see why she would be attracted to the idea of using the game to get back together with her ex, Matt, but for me, Drew was number one since we first met him. Lex didn’t see him as boyfriend material at first, and kept trying to deny the fact that she liked him. But gradually she learned that Drew was actually a really good guy, and started to realise maybe her relationship with Matt wasn’t as great as she thought. Lex’s relationship with George, however, was awesome. They were sort of brother and sistery (though George would disagree), but much funnier and very close and seemed to really understand each other a lot. They got along so well, it was great to read about!

George was hilarious. Half the time he wasn’t trying to be, and that made him even funnier. He was carrying a torch for his and Lex’s mutual friend Jess, but it was an unrequited love, so he saw the game as a chance to win her over. However, things did not go according to plan, leading to some very funny, very awkward situations. I loved how George interacted with Lex – their friendship was something quite unique that I haven’t really seen in a lot of books before. Plus, George was a The Lord of the Rings fans, so you know. I HAD to love him. Being a fan myself :P. I like how he tried to help Lex along the way, subtly attempting to sway her away from Matt who he thought was bad news. Whether or not it worked, I loved that he tried. He really cared about Lex, despite being besotted with Jess, who he was willing to do crazy things for to get her to notice him.

Drew was so adorable. Even though adorable is probably the last thing he would have wanted to be called. I liked him from the start and I loved how he spoke to Lex, and made her feel better about things when they were having a conversation. I love how he liked her no matter what, and that the revelation towards the end (which added slightly more serious undertones) didn’t change anything. He was also not what he first appeared to be. He was actually really kind and generous, and could even be shy. He didn’t think he was a bad boy, though that’s what most people labelled him. He was also really understanding, and actually had quite a lot in common with Lex. I was already Team Drew before the game really came into play, and was waiting for the moment that Lex would realise that Matt was not for her!

Jess, who I wasn’t sure about at the beginning, turned out to be a great friend. Gemma surprised me and I even started to like good old Sir Trench of Foot by the end. I finished Kiss Date Love Hate in one sitting and I really loved how everything ended. Throughout the book, the students were making short films in small groups, and I loved how it actually linked in and liked how the film aspect was included in the ending.

Overall, Kiss Date Love Hate was cute and funny and definitely deserves a place on your shelf! Recommended to everyone.(less)

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Feb 04, 2012 Nicolle rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2010s, romance, young-adult

Another fantastic read from Luisa Plaja. This young adult romance was origional in the plot line, which centred around a Sims like game where the setting on the game had an effect on the real life characters. The main protagonist Lex is highly likable and I enjoyed reading the book from her point of view, though she seemed to be a bit dim at times. I never for a second guessed that (view spoiler)...more

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Apr 03, 2012 Sammee (I Want to Read That) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review-read

4.5 Stara

Another brilliant, funny, sweet and magical story from Luisa Plaja. I completely fell in love with it!

When Lex and her best friend George test one of his father's games and decide to base all the characters on themselves and their friends, they find their settings actually change in real life! Can George use it to capture the heart of his long time love, and will Lex be able to get Matt back? But what about the gorgeous Drew...

OMG! How much did I love Lex? She is just absolutely adorabl...more 4.5 Stara

Another brilliant, funny, sweet and magical story from Luisa Plaja. I completely fell in love with it!

When Lex and her best friend George test one of his father's games and decide to base all the characters on themselves and their friends, they find their settings actually change in real life! Can George use it to capture the heart of his long time love, and will Lex be able to get Matt back? But what about the gorgeous Drew...

OMG! How much did I love Lex? She is just absolutely adorable! She made me laugh (and cry...) and I love that she is so forthcoming. She can be a bit down on herself - and we realise exactly why in the end - but over the course of the story we really see her grow and accept herself for who she is.

I also loved George and the relationship between him and Lex. The way she keeps referring to him as almost her brother because of the relationship history between their parents - and the banter they have with each other. They are obviously close and very good friends - they both had me laughing out loud.

And as for Drew... HELLO GORGEOUS SCOTTISH BOY! I could definitely see what Lex saw in him and I had to shout at her every time she decided she liked Matt more (who in my opinion really was a word rhyming with his name!) I loved how the relationship between her and Drew plays out - how good they are together and how he really sees her. Super, super sweet!

I also really enjoyed the magical element of the story - in this case the game. I love how it's entwined in the story in a way that isn't gimmicky but really adds to it. It's fun but it also puts the characters in a position where they can evolve and learn something about themselves which is very interesting and touching to read. The scene toward the end with Lex, Martin and her mother is especially poignant.

A clever concept - it has more going on than you first realise - and it really made me stop and think. Luisa Plaja is really great a creating characters you love spending time with - I enjoyed every minute of this book and I am really looking forward to whatever she writes next.(less)

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Feb 27, 2012 Sophie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: uk-author, for-review

Luisa’s fourth novel Kiss, Date, Love, Hate is definitely my favourite of hers. It’s brilliant!

Kiss, Date, Love, Hate’s brand of freaky contemp (coined by Luisa!) is one of my favourites. I love the way that Luisa writes realistic, relatable characters with a sprinkle of magic that really could happen if you wish hard enough. Well, I like to think so, anyway! Especially when there are the possibilities the ones Lex and George come up against here...

Being able to change yourself and your friends...more

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Jan 20, 2012 Book Angel Emma rated it 4 of 5 stars

The first thing I would like to say about this book is how well Luisa Plaja creates realistic teen narrative voices. This does however, mean that they are not necessarily like-able to begin with.

Told in first person narrative from the viewpoint of Lex. I adored the Jurassic Park link to the name. Lex is very much a daydreamer, she lives inside her head and is easily distracted. I can completely relate to this - ohhh look there is a squirrel [ ; D ] Lex continually over-thinks things, she isn't...more The first thing I would like to say about this book is how well Luisa Plaja creates realistic teen narrative voices. This does however, mean that they are not necessarily like-able to begin with.

Told in first person narrative from the viewpoint of Lex. I adored the Jurassic Park link to the name. Lex is very much a daydreamer, she lives inside her head and is easily distracted. I can completely relate to this - ohhh look there is a squirrel [ ; D ] Lex continually over-thinks things, she isn't good with praise and finds numerous ways in which to alter what has been said, twisting it until it suits the way she views herself.

Friends and families are portrayed as extremes. When viewed from the outside this exaggeration of personalities enables greater insight into the relationship, making it easy to see who really does belong together. I especially adored George in all his geekiness and Drew in his bad boy pierced hotness. If only kissing had been that good when I was a teen. Believe me the kissing scenes have smoke coming from the pages.

The way life shapes personalities provided a powerful undercurrent to the plot. Insightful narrative shows the way modern society has changed the view we have of family units, the stereotypical Mum, Dad and 2.5 children no longer exists. It is more likely to be single parents or second marriages. The revelations regarding past history of the characters and their interactions kept the pace flowing. Humorous moments and a fabulous helping of sarcasm all add to the individual characterizations.

The first half of the book concentrates on the game building and its affect on the characters. The concept of a computer game altering aspects of real life is intriguing. If you had the ability to alter your appearance or enchant people to like you with the simple click of a mouse - Would You? It would be like the modern equivalent of waving a magic wand. I am pretty sure I would make myself slimmer, look younger and be more optimistic just as a start [ ; D ]

The second half of the book is where the revelations occur tying everything together beautifully. Showing how and when events occurred to cause the current interactions. Impeccable writing draws all the characters history together while blending it with the current plot.

One of the things that stood out for me within the story-line was the way in which people make assumptions about other people based on their looks/where they have seen them. Drew is the best example of not judging a book by its cover.

Lex's journey through this book is fabulously portrayed. Not only does she understand herself better; she also appreciates her friends and family in a whole new way. There is hope for everyone in the end that everything has worked out for the best and is where it is supposed to be.

Luisa has a knack of creating utterly realistic and believable characters; her teens are flawed, insular and pessimistic. Ask anyone who works with teens and they will tell you, Luisa has them pegged. The insight into the inner workings of a teens mind is both encouraging and frightening in equal measure, this is speaking as a Mother of a pre-teen.

Another brilliant book from a brilliant author. (less)

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Feb 05, 2012 Clover (Fluttering Butterflies) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: wishlist, british-reading-challenge, ya, books-read-in-2012

This review was originally published at Fluttering Butterflies

I am very excited about Kiss Date Love Hate by Luisa Plaja! And I loved every minute I spent with this book and had a huge grin on my face throughout. It's very funny and fun and sweet and while at it's heart, the book is a love story, it's also about being OK with who you are.

I love how throughout the book Lex and her friends really discover more about themselves and also about their friends and exes and teachers and parents - we're...more This review was originally published at Fluttering Butterflies

I am very excited about Kiss Date Love Hate by Luisa Plaja! And I loved every minute I spent with this book and had a huge grin on my face throughout. It's very funny and fun and sweet and while at it's heart, the book is a love story, it's also about being OK with who you are.

I love how throughout the book Lex and her friends really discover more about themselves and also about their friends and exes and teachers and parents - we're all more complicated and holding onto painful or hidden or just bigger issues than we let on to other people. It is so easy to make assumptions about other people and what they're lives or loves will be like, but it's way more satisfying to actually find out.

Lex Murphy, our main character, is a teenage girl who has some issues. She has a bit of an attitude and is constantly being sent to the principal to be disciplined. It's all right though, because she often runs into (obviously hot) bad boy, Drew there. Lex harbours a crush on Drew, but is still quite hung up on her ex-boyfriend who happens to be currently dating her now ex-best friend.

When Lex and Drew are both required to attend a film-making course during the half-term holidays, the friendships and love lives of Lex and her friends are all put to the test. And all because of this (awesome) game discovered by Lex's best guy friend, George. In this SIMs-like video game, the appearance, mood and love settings of the players involved can be altered to best suit Lex (and George!). But will Lex continue to fight to get her ex back? Or come to acknowledge her growing feelings for Drew? I had so much fun finding out.

There are some truly wonderful things about Kiss Date Love Hate. I loved the nerdiness involved from the video game setting to George's seemingly endless references to Lord of the Rings. I loved the humour involved but also how it touches on some things are a bit more serious and that I don't often come across in YA fiction, which made me think. But it's the relationships that I loved the most, especially Lex's friendship with George.

But I loved witnessing these first baby steps towards a romantic relationship for Lex. I thought she was a great character. Plenty of annoying habits and she's obviously very flawed, but in an endearing way. From the very first page I really wanted her to figure things out and her journey throughout this book was a surprising one for me!

Only love for Kiss Date Love Hate for me! Highly recommended.(less)

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Mar 27, 2012 Coral rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, own

I won this book through first-reads and i was so excited and couldn't wait for it to arrive.

I have now finished reading Kiss, Date, Love, Hate and What a good book it is i really really enjoyed reading this book and found my self laughing out loud throughout the book.

It is a fun and easy read and very enjoyable.

I will certainly be reading more books by Luisa Plaja :)

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Feb 25, 2012 Jeanne rated it 5 of 5 stars

Luisa does it again! The greatest accolade is that my teen daughters kept asking if I was finished (and telling me it really wasn't appropriate for my age!). The second I was done it was grabbed from me, they couldn't wait to read it.
Great story, fun characters, spot-on teen dialogue and behaviour, and I didn't see the twist coming. Thoroughly enjoyable read.

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Apr 19, 2013 Emma Mills rated it 4 of 5 stars

I haven't read many young teen girls novels, but occasionally I'll pick one up for some light entertainment. The novels I would compare Luisa's too would be those of Louise Rennison. The teenagers in these books are all believable and suffer with the same anxieties and ideals. What makes this story different is the fabulous plot idea! I love the idea of a trial computer game where you input all your details and manipulate real life. It brings up fun situations of course and comedy moments but al...more

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May 18, 2013 Claudia Adlam rated it 4 of 5 stars

Really enjoyed this book! The storyline was so fun!

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Jul 24, 2012 Ann rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: own

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

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May 20, 2012 Becky Salisbury rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: modern-day, love, girly

This wasn't my cup of tea, and I didn't enjoy it that much. It was an alright book, but I just didn't enjoy it, I could guess the plot line.

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Feb 09, 2012 Liz Rettig rated it 5 of 5 stars

A funny feel good teen story but thought provoking too and with a touch of magic. What more could you ask for?

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