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Heart #1
Jessie Hearts NYC
Jessie's just arrived in New York, hoping to forget about her awful ex.
New Yorker Finn is in love with his best friend's girlfriend.
They might be perfect together, but in a city of eight million people, will they ever find each other?
A breezy summer rom-com, with oodles of New York glamour. (Bookseller)
New Yorker Finn is in love with his best friend's girlfriend.
They might be perfect together, but in a city of eight million people, will they ever find each other?
A breezy summer rom-com, with oodles of New York glamour. (Bookseller)
255 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
12 people are currently reading
1410 people want to read
About the author
Keris Stainton
22 books521 followersMy mum always claimed that when she lived in America for a year, my dad wrote to her every day and, in one of his letters, proposed. My dad denied this. But when she got home they got married anyway. In 1966 they emigrated to Canada. They'd wanted to go to New Zealand, but it was full.
I was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, which, by all accounts, is very cold. And also hot. But when I was four months old, my parents moved back to the UK.
When I was 18 I moved to London and worked in the music industry (eventually). A few years later I moved back up north. Now I live in Lancashire (which is lovely, particularly when it's not raining... which is about two weeks a year) with my two sons and two guinea pigs. All four are cute and hairy.
I was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, which, by all accounts, is very cold. And also hot. But when I was four months old, my parents moved back to the UK.
When I was 18 I moved to London and worked in the music industry (eventually). A few years later I moved back up north. Now I live in Lancashire (which is lovely, particularly when it's not raining... which is about two weeks a year) with my two sons and two guinea pigs. All four are cute and hairy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
May 2, 2011
Jessie is about to embark on the trip of a lifetime. She is spending the whole of the summer in New York with her best friend Emma, at her mum's cool apartment. She is hoping the trip will help her to get over her previous disastrous relationship. Finn, a New York hottie, is having a difficult time dealing with the fact that he is in love with his best friend's girlfriend. This book tells the story of what happens when two people from two different lifestyles let fate bring them together.
From the first couple of pages, I was tingling with excitement. Jessie is living my ultimate dream. I can remember being the same age and desperate to go to New York. Alas it was not to be and I have still to find my way there, however through Keris Stainton's book I found that I could vicariously through Jessie's life. Jessie is the first character in a book that I have actually wanted to be; everything about Jessie just reminded me of myself at that age.
The book is peppered with references of American films and TV shows which fed my American addiction as a teenager and I found myself reading the whole book in one sitting, completely lost in a world where my biggest worry used to be whether I would pass my O levels or not.
One of the main themes within the book is fate. How chance meetings can change the future. I am a strong believer in fate and coincidences, so each time Finn and Jessie's pathways crossed, I felt instantly happy. Their new found friendship is completely serendipitous!
The book also looks closely at relationships, especially between Jessie and her mum. To begin with Jessie's relationship with her mother Natalie, is very distant and I found myself disliking Natalie's manner. However, when they began to open up their feelings to each other, I realised that Natalie was never intentionally trying to upset Jessie; they just seemed to have a lot of crossed wires that needed to be undone.
I loved the way the chapters alternated between the viewpoints of Jessie and Finn. The author's writing gave both characters a distinct and unique voice. Finn is rather tasty and you become desperate for Jessie to finally kiss the gorgeous boy. A timeless dream of most English girls regardless of age: to actually get the good looking American guy!
This book will appeal to all ages, and I would highly recommend it to 40 something women like myself who grew up on American sitcoms and movies and have still to fulfill their American dream.
I would love to see Richard Curtis make this book into a film, as I feel it has the flavour of some of his wonderfully British movies such as Notting Hill and Love Actually. Anyone have his email address????
On speaking to the author, Keris has stated that she would prefer Nora Ephron to produce the film as a book and I had to ask her who she was. Shocking I know! As I grew up on her films such as Sleepless in Seattle and You've Got Mail too. Sigh!
I know there was a discussion on Twitter about certain mild swear words being used within the book, but to be honest, I didn't notice them at all. In fact, I must have been wearing blinkers to them as I read, because I couldn't tell you where they were within the story.
This book is utterly fabulous and I am so glad I had the opportunity to read it. I think this is a lovely, refreshing romantic summer read that needs to be read on a sun lounger by pool, with a cocktail in one hand.
From the first couple of pages, I was tingling with excitement. Jessie is living my ultimate dream. I can remember being the same age and desperate to go to New York. Alas it was not to be and I have still to find my way there, however through Keris Stainton's book I found that I could vicariously through Jessie's life. Jessie is the first character in a book that I have actually wanted to be; everything about Jessie just reminded me of myself at that age.
The book is peppered with references of American films and TV shows which fed my American addiction as a teenager and I found myself reading the whole book in one sitting, completely lost in a world where my biggest worry used to be whether I would pass my O levels or not.
One of the main themes within the book is fate. How chance meetings can change the future. I am a strong believer in fate and coincidences, so each time Finn and Jessie's pathways crossed, I felt instantly happy. Their new found friendship is completely serendipitous!
The book also looks closely at relationships, especially between Jessie and her mum. To begin with Jessie's relationship with her mother Natalie, is very distant and I found myself disliking Natalie's manner. However, when they began to open up their feelings to each other, I realised that Natalie was never intentionally trying to upset Jessie; they just seemed to have a lot of crossed wires that needed to be undone.
I loved the way the chapters alternated between the viewpoints of Jessie and Finn. The author's writing gave both characters a distinct and unique voice. Finn is rather tasty and you become desperate for Jessie to finally kiss the gorgeous boy. A timeless dream of most English girls regardless of age: to actually get the good looking American guy!
This book will appeal to all ages, and I would highly recommend it to 40 something women like myself who grew up on American sitcoms and movies and have still to fulfill their American dream.
I would love to see Richard Curtis make this book into a film, as I feel it has the flavour of some of his wonderfully British movies such as Notting Hill and Love Actually. Anyone have his email address????
On speaking to the author, Keris has stated that she would prefer Nora Ephron to produce the film as a book and I had to ask her who she was. Shocking I know! As I grew up on her films such as Sleepless in Seattle and You've Got Mail too. Sigh!
I know there was a discussion on Twitter about certain mild swear words being used within the book, but to be honest, I didn't notice them at all. In fact, I must have been wearing blinkers to them as I read, because I couldn't tell you where they were within the story.
This book is utterly fabulous and I am so glad I had the opportunity to read it. I think this is a lovely, refreshing romantic summer read that needs to be read on a sun lounger by pool, with a cocktail in one hand.
April 16, 2011
Being a massive fan of Keris's first book 'Della says: OMG!' and totally smitten with New York, I couldn't wait to read this book. I was lucky enough to win a proof copy from Keris's blog, and I am SO glad I did: it is FAB.
The book brilliantly combines an adorable romance with a New York guided tour than makes me desperate to go back. The interactions between Finn and Jessie are really cleverly done and you can almost imagine them playing out as a movie.
One of my favourite things about 'Della says: OMG!' was Keris's effortless and chatty dialogue, and she has done it again with this book - it felt like I was tagging along on Jessie and Emma's summer adventure, and it was a joy to get to see everything through their eyes.
The back of the proof describes the book as 'brilliantly-weaved' and I can't really say it any better. It's magical, but believable. I just love it.
The book brilliantly combines an adorable romance with a New York guided tour than makes me desperate to go back. The interactions between Finn and Jessie are really cleverly done and you can almost imagine them playing out as a movie.
One of my favourite things about 'Della says: OMG!' was Keris's effortless and chatty dialogue, and she has done it again with this book - it felt like I was tagging along on Jessie and Emma's summer adventure, and it was a joy to get to see everything through their eyes.
The back of the proof describes the book as 'brilliantly-weaved' and I can't really say it any better. It's magical, but believable. I just love it.
May 31, 2024
Loved the idea for a YA but the main couple- Jessie and Finn literally spent more time crushing on other people than being together...
July 2, 2011
Original review at http://inkscratchers.blogspot.com
This book has a 4.54/5 star rating on Goodreads.
Frankly, I can't understand why anybody would give this book less than 5 stars.
From page one of this book I was hooked, it amazes me how easily the author managed to get into a teenage girl's mind, from the first page, Jessie is one of the most relatable main characters I have ever read and this shines through the whole book. We watch as Jessie lives her dream of visiting New York and is hurt by her mother's neglect and when Jessie was excited, i was too, when Jessie was sad, I felt bad for her and I think that is the mark of a true writer.
This book is so true to life, even though I have never been to New York, the setting is described so fantastically that I began to vividly picture it as I read, and Stainton's love of New York shines through, making this book not just a book set in the city, but it almost becomes an ode to the city itself.
The story is fantastic, I love the idea of soul-mates, fate, love at first sight, all of that stuff and that, really is what this book is about. Finn first sees Jessie on her first day in New York and after that they keep passing each other which creates a sort of suspense. When will they meet? Where will they meet? How will they meet? Though the suspense is there from page one to when they meet, it isn't edge-of-set, nail-biting suspense, it's happy, sweet, fun suspense.
I love the sweet relationship between Jessie and Finn, they don't officially meet until late into the book and both have their own issues (Jessie has just had a break up and Finn is in love with his best friend's girl), and when they do meet, the feelings come slowly, it was cute, sweet, romantic and all around adorable, the romance was a breath of fresh air from the intense YA relationships I tend to read these days and I loved it!
Words cannot begin to describe my love for this book... time to go buy Della Says OMG!
An awesome book that gave me squishy happy feeling and kept me laughing all the way through, I advise everybody to buy it!
Overall rating: A+
This book has a 4.54/5 star rating on Goodreads.
Frankly, I can't understand why anybody would give this book less than 5 stars.
From page one of this book I was hooked, it amazes me how easily the author managed to get into a teenage girl's mind, from the first page, Jessie is one of the most relatable main characters I have ever read and this shines through the whole book. We watch as Jessie lives her dream of visiting New York and is hurt by her mother's neglect and when Jessie was excited, i was too, when Jessie was sad, I felt bad for her and I think that is the mark of a true writer.
This book is so true to life, even though I have never been to New York, the setting is described so fantastically that I began to vividly picture it as I read, and Stainton's love of New York shines through, making this book not just a book set in the city, but it almost becomes an ode to the city itself.
The story is fantastic, I love the idea of soul-mates, fate, love at first sight, all of that stuff and that, really is what this book is about. Finn first sees Jessie on her first day in New York and after that they keep passing each other which creates a sort of suspense. When will they meet? Where will they meet? How will they meet? Though the suspense is there from page one to when they meet, it isn't edge-of-set, nail-biting suspense, it's happy, sweet, fun suspense.
I love the sweet relationship between Jessie and Finn, they don't officially meet until late into the book and both have their own issues (Jessie has just had a break up and Finn is in love with his best friend's girl), and when they do meet, the feelings come slowly, it was cute, sweet, romantic and all around adorable, the romance was a breath of fresh air from the intense YA relationships I tend to read these days and I loved it!
Words cannot begin to describe my love for this book... time to go buy Della Says OMG!
An awesome book that gave me squishy happy feeling and kept me laughing all the way through, I advise everybody to buy it!
Overall rating: A+
June 17, 2011
4/5
Wow, what a quick read! At only 250 pages (and the font is HUGE) it was just really easy to power through right to the end. I'm surprised by how I enjoyed this book. I've always had this pre-existing fascination with New York City, and I think this book is just perfect for those who share that same interest.
Jessie Hearts NYC is told in omniscient third-person alternating narration, between Jessie who is getting over her breakup and living the dream in New York for the summer, and Finn who is in love with his best friend's girlfriend. The "hook" of this book is - ARE THEY GOING TO EVER FIND EACH OTHER? I personally believed there was a bit more to it than that.
I must say that the cover on the computer just does not do justice for the real cover. The gold is SHINY and really stands out. I love the detail that is put into the cover as well - there are buildings that are "lit up", and the title and author are incorporated in the signs. Really nicely designed. The spine of it is much of the same, and looks great on the shelf.
The characters in this book are really endearing, no matter how undeveloped they might be. I mean, you get some insight into what is going on with the characters, as well as some future plans and histories of the main two characters. But I was really curious as to why Jessie's best friend came along with her, what was her family life? What are the circumstances surrounding her that led her to go with her friend? I think there was just that lack of background knowledge. I wanted to really know them.
I will say that the plot was pretty predictable. Once I knew a bit about the characters, I knew what course the events would go. It reads very much like a familiar chick-flick. Not necessarily a bad thing, especially if you're in the mood for a hugely fun, funny and spunky story.
Wow, what a quick read! At only 250 pages (and the font is HUGE) it was just really easy to power through right to the end. I'm surprised by how I enjoyed this book. I've always had this pre-existing fascination with New York City, and I think this book is just perfect for those who share that same interest.
Jessie Hearts NYC is told in omniscient third-person alternating narration, between Jessie who is getting over her breakup and living the dream in New York for the summer, and Finn who is in love with his best friend's girlfriend. The "hook" of this book is - ARE THEY GOING TO EVER FIND EACH OTHER? I personally believed there was a bit more to it than that.
I must say that the cover on the computer just does not do justice for the real cover. The gold is SHINY and really stands out. I love the detail that is put into the cover as well - there are buildings that are "lit up", and the title and author are incorporated in the signs. Really nicely designed. The spine of it is much of the same, and looks great on the shelf.
The characters in this book are really endearing, no matter how undeveloped they might be. I mean, you get some insight into what is going on with the characters, as well as some future plans and histories of the main two characters. But I was really curious as to why Jessie's best friend came along with her, what was her family life? What are the circumstances surrounding her that led her to go with her friend? I think there was just that lack of background knowledge. I wanted to really know them.
I will say that the plot was pretty predictable. Once I knew a bit about the characters, I knew what course the events would go. It reads very much like a familiar chick-flick. Not necessarily a bad thing, especially if you're in the mood for a hugely fun, funny and spunky story.
July 4, 2011
I thought this would be a perfect book for my 16 year old to take on holiday. We both loved Keris' first novel Della says OMG so I thought it would be perfect. Sometimes my 16YO is rather restrained with her enthusiasm for things so it was a great sign when I gave her 'Jessie' and she proclaimed "Yeay, I have some books in my case, but not ones I REALLY want to read!" High praise indeed for a book she hasn't even started yet.
I took a sneaky peek at the book when it arrived, and before I knew it, half a day later, still sat in my PJ's I had read it cover to cover, and put it down with great satisfaction.
It is a great coming of age novel that carried Jessie and her friend Emma on a journey from Manchester to New York. I have never been to New York, but the descriptions and details of Jessie's initial journey there give a vivid portrayal of a bustling city. The story sees Jessie leave behind a doomed first relationship in Manchester, and along with her discovery of New York, she also finds out much more about her estranged mother, who she is staying with on her visit.
In parallel to Jessie's New York exploration runs the story of Finn, a boy in turmoil over his obsession with his best friend's girlfriend. I loved the near misses of Jessie and Finn's encounters, and was hooked until the end to see if fate would intervene and bring them together.
It left me wanting more, and I'd love to think that there was a sequel for Jessie in the future.
I'll let you know what my 16YO thought when she gets back from her travels.
I took a sneaky peek at the book when it arrived, and before I knew it, half a day later, still sat in my PJ's I had read it cover to cover, and put it down with great satisfaction.
It is a great coming of age novel that carried Jessie and her friend Emma on a journey from Manchester to New York. I have never been to New York, but the descriptions and details of Jessie's initial journey there give a vivid portrayal of a bustling city. The story sees Jessie leave behind a doomed first relationship in Manchester, and along with her discovery of New York, she also finds out much more about her estranged mother, who she is staying with on her visit.
In parallel to Jessie's New York exploration runs the story of Finn, a boy in turmoil over his obsession with his best friend's girlfriend. I loved the near misses of Jessie and Finn's encounters, and was hooked until the end to see if fate would intervene and bring them together.
It left me wanting more, and I'd love to think that there was a sequel for Jessie in the future.
I'll let you know what my 16YO thought when she gets back from her travels.
November 24, 2016
5 Words: NYC, coincidences, family, fate, friendship.
This is a very fun and excitable book about coincidences and how the smallest decisions can change everything.
This is a very fun and excitable book about coincidences and how the smallest decisions can change everything.
July 20, 2011
I loved, loved, loved Keris Stainton’s debut novel, Della Says: OMG so when I received the ARC of her newest book, I was extremely excited and although I had books I should have read before this one, I couldn’t help myself and picked it up anyways. The book is told in alternating POVs from both Jessie and Finn, written in third person.
From the off, I was hooked. Jessie’s voice is a strong one and warmed to her immediately. Full of passion and excitement about New York, I couldn’t wait to take this journey with her and to see what she was going to end up getting up to. Jessie’s reasons for wanting to go to New York are three fold: it’s been her dream for a long time, she gets to see her mum and also to get over her ex boyfriend. Each reason was justified and explained well. Jessie has strong feelings about her mum and the divorce of her parents so even before she had arrived in New York, I was anxious to meet her mum and to see what she was really like. After Jessie’s break up, all she wants to do is run away and reinvent herself and this is something I could completely identify with. I ran away to Canada after a break up with a boyfriend and stayed there for some time.
Finn was a lovely character. In love with his best friend’s girlfriend, he has no idea how to act around her, and him, anymore. Finn also has much more going on than I had originally expected in the form of family problems and their expectations of him. In this regard, he could identify with what Jessie was going through when they finally meet and get to know each other. As a character, Finn was interesting and very charismatic. He was sweet, caring and really wanted to do right by other people, even if it meant suffering himself. He was definitely a guy I would have gone for myself if I had been in this situation.
The best friends of the story, Emma and Scott are just as fabulous as the main characters. Each have their own distinct personalities which are different to that of their friends. This mix of personalities and senses of humour was great and no two characters were too similar in any way. Each had characteristics that anyone could relate to. This book isn’t full of teenagers though. Jessie’s mum plays quite a large role and has quite an impact on the events in the story. While different to Jessie, they also shared similarities so I enjoyed seeing how they were alike and also how they weren’t. Finn’s parents and grandmother play a large part in his life and his actions and again, I loved seeing how different they all were to him.
Something which Stainton seems to have a knack for getting perfect in her books is the portrayal of teenagers. The language used is real (even if Stainton had to tone down a couple of parts) and I always like to see this in YA books. Teenagers do use some bad language and speak a certain way and it isn’t very often that authors get this exactly right. Keris Stainton, however, does. I hate to see teenage character speaking so rigidly due to authors being worried about the wrong use of language but here, the language used is spot on. Because of this, along with great characterisation, I could completely picture myself in Jessie’s situation.
Jessie ♥ NYC is full of references to pop culture and while this should date this book, I don’t think it will. When I think of New York, I think of Friends, When Harry Met Sally and Sex In The City. Keris Stainton knows her subject well and includes so many interesting facts about these TV shows and films, all set in New York. As the book got going and Jessie and Emma began pointing out certain things about each place they visited, I found myself playing along and seeing how many scenes from different things I could pick out. I have to say that I was quit pleased with myself and know 99% of what was mentioned.
Jessie ♥ NYC is a great summer romance which will appeal to more than the YA market. With amazing characters, realistic events and language and a romance utterly perfect, I cant recommend this book highly enough. I could easily read it over and over again!
From the off, I was hooked. Jessie’s voice is a strong one and warmed to her immediately. Full of passion and excitement about New York, I couldn’t wait to take this journey with her and to see what she was going to end up getting up to. Jessie’s reasons for wanting to go to New York are three fold: it’s been her dream for a long time, she gets to see her mum and also to get over her ex boyfriend. Each reason was justified and explained well. Jessie has strong feelings about her mum and the divorce of her parents so even before she had arrived in New York, I was anxious to meet her mum and to see what she was really like. After Jessie’s break up, all she wants to do is run away and reinvent herself and this is something I could completely identify with. I ran away to Canada after a break up with a boyfriend and stayed there for some time.
Finn was a lovely character. In love with his best friend’s girlfriend, he has no idea how to act around her, and him, anymore. Finn also has much more going on than I had originally expected in the form of family problems and their expectations of him. In this regard, he could identify with what Jessie was going through when they finally meet and get to know each other. As a character, Finn was interesting and very charismatic. He was sweet, caring and really wanted to do right by other people, even if it meant suffering himself. He was definitely a guy I would have gone for myself if I had been in this situation.
The best friends of the story, Emma and Scott are just as fabulous as the main characters. Each have their own distinct personalities which are different to that of their friends. This mix of personalities and senses of humour was great and no two characters were too similar in any way. Each had characteristics that anyone could relate to. This book isn’t full of teenagers though. Jessie’s mum plays quite a large role and has quite an impact on the events in the story. While different to Jessie, they also shared similarities so I enjoyed seeing how they were alike and also how they weren’t. Finn’s parents and grandmother play a large part in his life and his actions and again, I loved seeing how different they all were to him.
Something which Stainton seems to have a knack for getting perfect in her books is the portrayal of teenagers. The language used is real (even if Stainton had to tone down a couple of parts) and I always like to see this in YA books. Teenagers do use some bad language and speak a certain way and it isn’t very often that authors get this exactly right. Keris Stainton, however, does. I hate to see teenage character speaking so rigidly due to authors being worried about the wrong use of language but here, the language used is spot on. Because of this, along with great characterisation, I could completely picture myself in Jessie’s situation.
Jessie ♥ NYC is full of references to pop culture and while this should date this book, I don’t think it will. When I think of New York, I think of Friends, When Harry Met Sally and Sex In The City. Keris Stainton knows her subject well and includes so many interesting facts about these TV shows and films, all set in New York. As the book got going and Jessie and Emma began pointing out certain things about each place they visited, I found myself playing along and seeing how many scenes from different things I could pick out. I have to say that I was quit pleased with myself and know 99% of what was mentioned.
Jessie ♥ NYC is a great summer romance which will appeal to more than the YA market. With amazing characters, realistic events and language and a romance utterly perfect, I cant recommend this book highly enough. I could easily read it over and over again!
March 28, 2011
I have to start this review by saying a massive thank you to Keris Stainton for sending me her book for review even before the proof copies had been printed! (The book isn't due for publication until 7 June 2011!) Thank you, I was so thrilled to read it :)
Jessie Hearts NYC was such a fun book to read. I adore books set in NYC anyway, but the way in which Keris creates such a romantic atmosphere within the pages of her book with the many references to some of my favourite rom-coms such as When Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in Seattle plus the many, many almost-meetings between Jessie and Finn made my heart beat quicker in anticipation!
Because New York City IS a big place, how on earth are two people meant to meet and fall in love? Jessie Hearts NYC is written in a dual-perspective. There's Jessie, teenager from England who arrived in New York with her best friend in tow, prepared to live with her mom for the summer holidays. Jessie's hoping that this trip will cure her of any leftover ickiness of her ex-boyfriend. Perhaps the perfect somebody to help her get over him is the yummy Ben that works in the play Jessie's mum wrote. And there's also Finn, who at the same time as juggling the guilt he feels for fancying his best friend's girlfriend, he must also decide if he really wants to head down the career path his father has laid out for him.
I love all of the characters in this book so much! Jessie is such a breath of fresh air, she has so much enthusiasm for New York City, to see all the sights and to make the most of her experience there. It really, truly makes me want to visit NYC again and do a Jessie tour, follow in her footsteps and see the city the way that she saw it. I'd like to visit the Empire State Building again and look at it from an architectural point of view, like Finn's. I'd just love to see the city again, from a new perspective.
And I adored the friendships that Jessie and Finn have. Their two best friends, Emma and Scott are wonderful. Supportive and comfortable with each other, I'd really love to have such a close friend like these two when things start going wrong. I think this book has a very realistic outlook on crushes and relationships, but it takes a bit of time for all of the characters to reach that place, and an excellent best friend like Emma and Scott are perfect in these roles.
Also, part of the reason that I loved Jessie Hearts NYC so much is, for me, how close to home things started getting with the tenuous relationship that Jessie has with her distant mother. I thought it was an interesting aspect of the storyline and there are so many things that have been left unspoken between the two, resentments and bitterness that Jessie has been holding onto. It really touched something inside of me.
The characters, the setting, how romantic it is, the relationships - everything about this book very real to me and I finished it with a huge smile on my face! Jessie and Finn are pretty high on the adorable factor - Jessie Hearts NYC by Keris Stainton is so sweet and romantic, it really is a book not to miss!
Jessie Hearts NYC was such a fun book to read. I adore books set in NYC anyway, but the way in which Keris creates such a romantic atmosphere within the pages of her book with the many references to some of my favourite rom-coms such as When Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in Seattle plus the many, many almost-meetings between Jessie and Finn made my heart beat quicker in anticipation!
Because New York City IS a big place, how on earth are two people meant to meet and fall in love? Jessie Hearts NYC is written in a dual-perspective. There's Jessie, teenager from England who arrived in New York with her best friend in tow, prepared to live with her mom for the summer holidays. Jessie's hoping that this trip will cure her of any leftover ickiness of her ex-boyfriend. Perhaps the perfect somebody to help her get over him is the yummy Ben that works in the play Jessie's mum wrote. And there's also Finn, who at the same time as juggling the guilt he feels for fancying his best friend's girlfriend, he must also decide if he really wants to head down the career path his father has laid out for him.
I love all of the characters in this book so much! Jessie is such a breath of fresh air, she has so much enthusiasm for New York City, to see all the sights and to make the most of her experience there. It really, truly makes me want to visit NYC again and do a Jessie tour, follow in her footsteps and see the city the way that she saw it. I'd like to visit the Empire State Building again and look at it from an architectural point of view, like Finn's. I'd just love to see the city again, from a new perspective.
And I adored the friendships that Jessie and Finn have. Their two best friends, Emma and Scott are wonderful. Supportive and comfortable with each other, I'd really love to have such a close friend like these two when things start going wrong. I think this book has a very realistic outlook on crushes and relationships, but it takes a bit of time for all of the characters to reach that place, and an excellent best friend like Emma and Scott are perfect in these roles.
Also, part of the reason that I loved Jessie Hearts NYC so much is, for me, how close to home things started getting with the tenuous relationship that Jessie has with her distant mother. I thought it was an interesting aspect of the storyline and there are so many things that have been left unspoken between the two, resentments and bitterness that Jessie has been holding onto. It really touched something inside of me.
The characters, the setting, how romantic it is, the relationships - everything about this book very real to me and I finished it with a huge smile on my face! Jessie and Finn are pretty high on the adorable factor - Jessie Hearts NYC by Keris Stainton is so sweet and romantic, it really is a book not to miss!
June 16, 2011
I absolutely loved this young adult story of growing up and falling in love in New York City. Great, believable teenage characters, authentic dialogue and the author's obvious love for New York all combine to make a story which you don't want to put down until the last page. And even then, you want to know what happens next.
July 23, 2011
*4.5 stars*
A totally sweet, charming love letter to New York City and all the NYC-set rom-coms. It took me a few chapters to adjust to the writing style - not that there's anything wrong with it, I just took a while to adjust to the rhythms of it - but then I really, really enjoyed it.
A totally sweet, charming love letter to New York City and all the NYC-set rom-coms. It took me a few chapters to adjust to the writing style - not that there's anything wrong with it, I just took a while to adjust to the rhythms of it - but then I really, really enjoyed it.
July 17, 2011
'New York, New York, a wonderful town' is the memorable refrain from one of my favourite songs, as sung in 'On The Town' by Gene Kelly and co. It's one of my favourite songs because I've always been obsessed with everything about New York. It's such a huge and vibrant city, full of culture and excitement and holds the promise of adventures and new beginnings. Although I haven't actually been to the land of dreams yet I'm determined to get there one day and in the meantime I get to live vicariously through wonderful books like 'Jessie Hearts NYC' by Keris Stainton.
Part of the reason I loved this book was obviously the fact that it's set in NYC and features frequent references to iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park Zoo and Broadway. It also explores all the sights, sounds and smells of the city from the all-American deli breakfast which I could practically taste, to the speeding yellow cabs which whiz around at death-defying speeds. Then there are the nods to memorable pop culture such as 'An Affair to Remember', 'Sex and the City. (and the Magnolia Bakery), plus 'When Harry Met Sally'. Although 'Jessie Hearts NYC' is a fiction title and not a guidebook to the city, it does embrace wholeheartedly the wonder of NYC and the fact that anything is possible in a place where dreams really can come true.
Jessie and her best friend Emma are spending the summer in New York, with Jessie's divorced mother. This is an opportunity to leave boy troubles behind and to explore the city and have a carefree summer. Native New Yorker Finn, is having troubles of his own, including being in love with his best friend's girlfriend and attempting to come to a decision about what he wants to do with the rest of his life. Their stories unfold in alternating chapters throughout, as they come closer and closer to meeting. As we learn more about their characters it becomes increasingly clear that they're made for each other but will they ever get to meet!
I loved, loved, loved this book! It was funny and lighthearted which makes it a perfect summer book but it was also absorbing and a real treat to read. There was a good balance between some really laugh-out-loud moments and some more serious parts which dealt with Jessie trying to rebuild her relationship with her mother. I thought that the way in which their relationship was revealed and developed worked really well and added some extra depth to the story.
'Jessie Hearts NYC' is a super book! The story is as shiny and sparkly as the gorgeous front cover and I enjoyed every second of reading it. Fingers crossed that maybe my dream will come true one day like Jessie and I'll get to go to New York!
Having finished this, I now also really want to read 'Della Says: OMG!' which is the first book by Keris Stainton and which sounds equally awesome!
Part of the reason I loved this book was obviously the fact that it's set in NYC and features frequent references to iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park Zoo and Broadway. It also explores all the sights, sounds and smells of the city from the all-American deli breakfast which I could practically taste, to the speeding yellow cabs which whiz around at death-defying speeds. Then there are the nods to memorable pop culture such as 'An Affair to Remember', 'Sex and the City. (and the Magnolia Bakery), plus 'When Harry Met Sally'. Although 'Jessie Hearts NYC' is a fiction title and not a guidebook to the city, it does embrace wholeheartedly the wonder of NYC and the fact that anything is possible in a place where dreams really can come true.
Jessie and her best friend Emma are spending the summer in New York, with Jessie's divorced mother. This is an opportunity to leave boy troubles behind and to explore the city and have a carefree summer. Native New Yorker Finn, is having troubles of his own, including being in love with his best friend's girlfriend and attempting to come to a decision about what he wants to do with the rest of his life. Their stories unfold in alternating chapters throughout, as they come closer and closer to meeting. As we learn more about their characters it becomes increasingly clear that they're made for each other but will they ever get to meet!
I loved, loved, loved this book! It was funny and lighthearted which makes it a perfect summer book but it was also absorbing and a real treat to read. There was a good balance between some really laugh-out-loud moments and some more serious parts which dealt with Jessie trying to rebuild her relationship with her mother. I thought that the way in which their relationship was revealed and developed worked really well and added some extra depth to the story.
'Jessie Hearts NYC' is a super book! The story is as shiny and sparkly as the gorgeous front cover and I enjoyed every second of reading it. Fingers crossed that maybe my dream will come true one day like Jessie and I'll get to go to New York!
Having finished this, I now also really want to read 'Della Says: OMG!' which is the first book by Keris Stainton and which sounds equally awesome!
August 23, 2011
I’d read several books before about characters moving or holidaying in NYC which I thoroughly enjoyed; I heart New York and Shopaholic Abroad, so I thought that Jessie hearts NYC would be a similar sort of read. Sadly this wasn’t the case, I really tried to get into it several times, but I just couldn’t. I found the characters Jessie, Finn and Emma quite naive and a little clueless at times. Also the constant gushing of “omg were in New York, can you believe were in New York?” “No omg really?” really began to grate on me.
I’m disappointed as I was hoping to find Jessie hearts NYC to be an enjoyable funny read, but it just didn’t do it for me.
I’m disappointed as I was hoping to find Jessie hearts NYC to be an enjoyable funny read, but it just didn’t do it for me.
July 10, 2011
Keris Stainton delivers another very fun novel with lovable characters and young romance that is just irresistible. What is especially nice about this book is that it was written in third person and from the perspective of both Jessie and Finn, who somehow in a city so large find each other. So often YA fiction or women's fiction is written in first person from the female's perspective. I LOVE to hear the guy's side. Love it. I loved how this tale was spun and how she set up their romance. I also appreciated the exploration of a difficult mother-daughter relationship. I've been Jessie. I sometimes am still Jessie when it comes to my relationship with my own 'mum.' There are a lot of layers to this tale, and I recommend it if you're looking for a delightful summer book.
April 12, 2011
I adore the ideal of soulmates and destiny; the way fate conspires to bring two people together. These notions are breathtakingly woven into the story. The number of coincidences and near misses that ultimately bring Jessie and Finn together was a joy to follow; the parallels with their thoughts, actions and events was ingenious. The weaving together of the simultaneous plot thread was inspired.
Plus Keris's adoration of NYC shines through the prose, merging beautiful descriptions with realistic imagery making for a three dimensional picture within my imagination.
Written in third person narrative but mainly focalized from either Jessie's or Finn's perspective. the parallels with the imagery and descriptions from both main characters add another dimension to the main storyline. There are a lot of initial characters and background details to pick up on, but the story is well paced and compelling. I have to say I absolutely adored Finn *swoon* the more I got to know him the more I was routing for him in everything from his family, college to Jessie herself. OK so he has a crush on his best friends girlfriend but he was thrown into circumstances that intensified this crush yet never acted on it til one silly drunken moment and he was instantly overcome with remorse. He is a 'nice' guy.
I instantly identified with Jessie from the first page, it always amazes me that Keris can get into the mind of a teenage girl with such ease. Jessie feelings about the divorce of her parents were relatable, showing the way in which it affects all members of the family, this was heart-wrenching even when you know that it is the best option. The way in which Jessie's fathers relationship was depicted with brutal honesty endeared him to me, there was no white washing or covering up. I actually sniggered for a while at his reaction to Jessie dating; images of J and his thoughts about our children dating filled my imagination even though they are not old enough to have boyfriends yet. I completely understood Jessie's feeling that you could perhaps be a different person by changing location/hair/clothes, I am sure we have all felt like that at some point in our lives. I could actually feel Keris herself shining through the narrative, so much so that I began to picture Jessie as a teenage Keris.
The use of contemporary pop culture references really brings the story to technicolour life. The conversation about Sesame Street had me laughing for ages and the Russell Crowe reference literally made me fall about laughing (this is very difficult to explain when you are reading in public and suddenly snort with laughter).
The use of media stereotyping for the way in which motherhood is portrayed stood out dramatically, you are automatically supposed to be loving, caring, nurturing and self-sacrificing. Yes motherhood does include all of that at times but you should still be viewed as a separate individual with a personality of their own rather than just someones mother. Motherhood is the hardest job I have ever had even if it is the most rewarding.
The way in which both families redefined their relationship in light of the revelations was awe inspiring. Jessie in particular seemed to mature emotionally through the story.
I am having trouble summing this book up because I just want to gush - fantastic, awesome, brilliant - what I will say is that I had a warm, squishy, fuzzy, happy feeling for ages after reading it. So what are you waiting for - go order it now.
Plus Keris's adoration of NYC shines through the prose, merging beautiful descriptions with realistic imagery making for a three dimensional picture within my imagination.
Written in third person narrative but mainly focalized from either Jessie's or Finn's perspective. the parallels with the imagery and descriptions from both main characters add another dimension to the main storyline. There are a lot of initial characters and background details to pick up on, but the story is well paced and compelling. I have to say I absolutely adored Finn *swoon* the more I got to know him the more I was routing for him in everything from his family, college to Jessie herself. OK so he has a crush on his best friends girlfriend but he was thrown into circumstances that intensified this crush yet never acted on it til one silly drunken moment and he was instantly overcome with remorse. He is a 'nice' guy.
I instantly identified with Jessie from the first page, it always amazes me that Keris can get into the mind of a teenage girl with such ease. Jessie feelings about the divorce of her parents were relatable, showing the way in which it affects all members of the family, this was heart-wrenching even when you know that it is the best option. The way in which Jessie's fathers relationship was depicted with brutal honesty endeared him to me, there was no white washing or covering up. I actually sniggered for a while at his reaction to Jessie dating; images of J and his thoughts about our children dating filled my imagination even though they are not old enough to have boyfriends yet. I completely understood Jessie's feeling that you could perhaps be a different person by changing location/hair/clothes, I am sure we have all felt like that at some point in our lives. I could actually feel Keris herself shining through the narrative, so much so that I began to picture Jessie as a teenage Keris.
The use of contemporary pop culture references really brings the story to technicolour life. The conversation about Sesame Street had me laughing for ages and the Russell Crowe reference literally made me fall about laughing (this is very difficult to explain when you are reading in public and suddenly snort with laughter).
The use of media stereotyping for the way in which motherhood is portrayed stood out dramatically, you are automatically supposed to be loving, caring, nurturing and self-sacrificing. Yes motherhood does include all of that at times but you should still be viewed as a separate individual with a personality of their own rather than just someones mother. Motherhood is the hardest job I have ever had even if it is the most rewarding.
The way in which both families redefined their relationship in light of the revelations was awe inspiring. Jessie in particular seemed to mature emotionally through the story.
I am having trouble summing this book up because I just want to gush - fantastic, awesome, brilliant - what I will say is that I had a warm, squishy, fuzzy, happy feeling for ages after reading it. So what are you waiting for - go order it now.
July 8, 2011
This book starts with our main character Jessie and her best friend Emma arriving in New York City where they’ll be staying with Jessie’s mum for the summer. Sounds like every girls dream right? Well unfortunately for Jessie there’s quite literally trouble in paradise! Turns out that Jessie and her mum don’t have the most idealistic relationship with her mother more concerned about her career than her daughter. Will their rocky relationship ruin Jessie’s trip of a lifetime? Or will New York work its magic on the out of touch mother and daughter? Meanwhile New Yorker Finn is having troubles of his own. Finn’s in love with beautiful, perfect, made for him, Sam. So what’s the problem? Oh Sam only happens to already have a boyfriend- Finn’s best friend. With a summer of near misses fate brings Jessie and Finn almost together several times. But in a city of 8 million people and a duo with problems the size of the Empire State Building will Jessie and Finn find one another?
Jessie Hearts New York City is a cute, fun, summer read. Throughout the book Jessie and Finn are constantly thrown together but never actually meet. Their paths cross on countless occasions and as you get to know both characters you realise how perfect they would be together if only they would just meet! The whole concept of fate and those small chances that define the future was a really sweet and unique aspect to the book that gives Jessie Hearts NYC that extra sparkle that makes it stand out from other contemporary summer reads.
Fate and chance play a big part in this story, so what better place for it to be set in than New York the city where dreams come true? I loved the New York backdrop Keris Stainton created for this story and loved exploring the biggest and most exciting city in the world with a heroine as fun as Jessie doing all the must do touristy things.
Overall this book is sweet, fun and ideal for a beachy summer read. However Jessie’s life isn’t all perfect with her strained relationship with her mum and I loved that extra layer to the book. It made this perfect summer fairytale Jessie is living that more realistic- something I think teens are going to relate to. Jessie and her mums issues all play a part in the overall story and fit together with the running theme of fate really nicely. The book really comes full circle that way making it a bit meatier than your typical happy go lucky read.
Jessie Hearts NYC has everything a girl wants in a summer. It has the foreign destination, the will it won’t it happen romance, a sweet and likeable heroine that girls will relate to and most importantly of all that “this is the summer where everything is going to change” vibe that makes summer time so magical. If you’re looking for a romantic, fun, read this summer this is the book for you.
Jessie Hearts New York City is a cute, fun, summer read. Throughout the book Jessie and Finn are constantly thrown together but never actually meet. Their paths cross on countless occasions and as you get to know both characters you realise how perfect they would be together if only they would just meet! The whole concept of fate and those small chances that define the future was a really sweet and unique aspect to the book that gives Jessie Hearts NYC that extra sparkle that makes it stand out from other contemporary summer reads.
Fate and chance play a big part in this story, so what better place for it to be set in than New York the city where dreams come true? I loved the New York backdrop Keris Stainton created for this story and loved exploring the biggest and most exciting city in the world with a heroine as fun as Jessie doing all the must do touristy things.
Overall this book is sweet, fun and ideal for a beachy summer read. However Jessie’s life isn’t all perfect with her strained relationship with her mum and I loved that extra layer to the book. It made this perfect summer fairytale Jessie is living that more realistic- something I think teens are going to relate to. Jessie and her mums issues all play a part in the overall story and fit together with the running theme of fate really nicely. The book really comes full circle that way making it a bit meatier than your typical happy go lucky read.
Jessie Hearts NYC has everything a girl wants in a summer. It has the foreign destination, the will it won’t it happen romance, a sweet and likeable heroine that girls will relate to and most importantly of all that “this is the summer where everything is going to change” vibe that makes summer time so magical. If you’re looking for a romantic, fun, read this summer this is the book for you.
February 15, 2018
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Jessie is going to New York for the summer with her best friend after a breakup. They're staying with her mother, and hoping to see all the amazing sights! A local named Finn is dealing with feelings for his best friend's girlfriend, and some inner conflicts concerning what he wants to do for a career. If they find each other, a new friendship or even a relationship could bloom. But will they find each other?
I got this book a long time ago because it looked fun and cute. I like to stray from the deep, dark paranormal stories that I tend to gravitate towards at times. However, this book wasn't fun or cute.
The characters were all pretty annoying, except for Finn. I could relate to him a lot. Unsure about the future, worried about careers and school, and what his family might think. Jessie, however, seemed a bit immature and I don't think I'd like her much were I to encounter her in the real world. Her friend, Emma, seemed very flat as a character, and her family wasn't all that interesting.
This book was pretty slow. I read it quickly because it was pretty short and the writing style was simple, but as for actual events and the plot, there wasn't much going on. This book wasn't horrendous, but it really wasn't that enjoyable.
I wish Jessie and Finn had met earlier in the book. Then they could have talked about their issues together, and made it seem like there was any point whatsoever to them meeting, besides "what if they end up together????" I think that this book could have been a great exploration of the issues surrounding growing up, while still remaining a light read, had the author done this. I think it would have developed the characters a lot more as well.
Overall, I don't have too much to say about this book. It wasn't the worst thing in the world, but it was slow with mostly boring characters and it appeared that there was no ultimate point to the story. If you like light-hearted, short contemporary stories, you may enjoy this one.
March 2, 2012
It was very refreshing to pick up a book (I say pick up a book, what I really mean is raise aloft my Kindle in all it's convenient glory) that isn't too laden with angst ridden drama and tearing-their-hair-out teens. Ok, Jessie.. does have a little bit of this, but this neat little twist on the classic New York love story is a generally sweet and happy affair, and all the better for it.
Told from the alternating perspectives of Jessie and Finn, both our progtagonists are likeable without straying into goody-two-shoes territory and mis-guided enough to make them ring true. Perfect YA main characters then. I particularly liked Finn. We've all been there, falling in love with someone we can't have and spending most of our time banging our head against a brick wall trying to figure out why we insist on staying in self-destruct mode...Sorry, bit too much overshare there. ANNNYWAY... Yes, Finn, loved him.
Jessie seemed remarkably well-adjusted for a girl with such an unconventional family set-up. Have to say, I never really warmed to her mother, Natalie, even towards the end, although I liked the fact the author has highlighted how, for some, nuturing does not come naturally. But some of her actions were a bit on the reprehensible side, so BOO to Natalie on the whole from me.
I adored the summer setting. When I think New York love story, and I automatically think romantic snowfall, crunching along the sidewalk, rugged up in snuggly winter gear, pretty, pretty, pretty. But the long, hot summer thing really worked for me here.
The pace of the writing was brisk and lively and there were no points where I felt the book drag. The only downside for me was that I hoped the story could have taken a few more risks and maybe have some snappier exchanges between the characters, but other than that, this is a great, light-hearted, refreshingly up beat read for those who get a bit teary when watching Sleepless in Seattle (like myself).
Told from the alternating perspectives of Jessie and Finn, both our progtagonists are likeable without straying into goody-two-shoes territory and mis-guided enough to make them ring true. Perfect YA main characters then. I particularly liked Finn. We've all been there, falling in love with someone we can't have and spending most of our time banging our head against a brick wall trying to figure out why we insist on staying in self-destruct mode...Sorry, bit too much overshare there. ANNNYWAY... Yes, Finn, loved him.
Jessie seemed remarkably well-adjusted for a girl with such an unconventional family set-up. Have to say, I never really warmed to her mother, Natalie, even towards the end, although I liked the fact the author has highlighted how, for some, nuturing does not come naturally. But some of her actions were a bit on the reprehensible side, so BOO to Natalie on the whole from me.
I adored the summer setting. When I think New York love story, and I automatically think romantic snowfall, crunching along the sidewalk, rugged up in snuggly winter gear, pretty, pretty, pretty. But the long, hot summer thing really worked for me here.
The pace of the writing was brisk and lively and there were no points where I felt the book drag. The only downside for me was that I hoped the story could have taken a few more risks and maybe have some snappier exchanges between the characters, but other than that, this is a great, light-hearted, refreshingly up beat read for those who get a bit teary when watching Sleepless in Seattle (like myself).
April 28, 2015
This is such a sweet and fun book. I was really looking forward to reading it as I loved Della Says: OMG! It's a really quick book to read - I read it in a couple of hours - and I honestly wanted to jump on a plane and go to New York after reading it!
The story is told from both Jessie and Finn's perspective - and as I've said in previous reviews I love books that do this. I love getting the story from both points of view.
I really liked Jessie and her friend Emma. I thought they had a really nice friendship. I also really liked the storyline between Jessie and her mum - and part of me would like to have explored that aspect further. I LOVED Finn. He's just so ... yum! And I adored the whole 'will they won't they' meet each other because you can tell how suited they are for each other - they just need to properly meet!
As I said, I would have liked to have had a bit more back story for Jessie in regard to her relationship with her mother. And it would have been nice to have a bit more back story on Finn too. I just found myself wanting to know more about them both - but, at the same time, I also worry that doing so might have spoilt that feel good, light hearted read we got. That it might have taken the focus away from that 'will they won't they' that I loved so much.
Did I mention it's also really funny - I loved the revolving restaurant scene! I also really enjoyed all the movie references. And I loved the ending *sighs*.
The story is told from both Jessie and Finn's perspective - and as I've said in previous reviews I love books that do this. I love getting the story from both points of view.
I really liked Jessie and her friend Emma. I thought they had a really nice friendship. I also really liked the storyline between Jessie and her mum - and part of me would like to have explored that aspect further. I LOVED Finn. He's just so ... yum! And I adored the whole 'will they won't they' meet each other because you can tell how suited they are for each other - they just need to properly meet!
As I said, I would have liked to have had a bit more back story for Jessie in regard to her relationship with her mother. And it would have been nice to have a bit more back story on Finn too. I just found myself wanting to know more about them both - but, at the same time, I also worry that doing so might have spoilt that feel good, light hearted read we got. That it might have taken the focus away from that 'will they won't they' that I loved so much.
Did I mention it's also really funny - I loved the revolving restaurant scene! I also really enjoyed all the movie references. And I loved the ending *sighs*.
July 9, 2011
This was an impulse buy in London. It looked like it might be a fun read.
I can't really say it was. I think it was going for a bit of a "Sleepless in Seattle" vibe where the characters always seem to be in the same spot but never really meet until towards the end. Basically dragged out and not well executed.
Anyways, you have Jessie and her friend Emma. They are from Manchester and have come to NYC for a trip to visit Jessie's mum. Then you have Finn, who is convinced he is in love with his best friends girlfriend.
Jessie and Finn don't actually meet until around the last half of the book. I didn't really like any of the characters in this book. There was nothing special about them that made me feel like they were real.
In fact, there was nothing special about this book(in my opinion). It seemed very dumbed down. There was no intelligence in this book.
I guess maybe someone might like it if they don't care if the characters have substance. Or if they want a ridiculously light read that will make you feel dumb for having read it.
It is kind of a Meg Cabot level of YA. Except Meg Cabot tends to be more enjoyable. So that is why I gave it 2 stars. It was OK but most of the time it was just painful!
It was like having someone hitting me over the head with a frying pan. Mostly uncomfortable and not good for the brain.
I can't really say it was. I think it was going for a bit of a "Sleepless in Seattle" vibe where the characters always seem to be in the same spot but never really meet until towards the end. Basically dragged out and not well executed.
Anyways, you have Jessie and her friend Emma. They are from Manchester and have come to NYC for a trip to visit Jessie's mum. Then you have Finn, who is convinced he is in love with his best friends girlfriend.
Jessie and Finn don't actually meet until around the last half of the book. I didn't really like any of the characters in this book. There was nothing special about them that made me feel like they were real.
In fact, there was nothing special about this book(in my opinion). It seemed very dumbed down. There was no intelligence in this book.
I guess maybe someone might like it if they don't care if the characters have substance. Or if they want a ridiculously light read that will make you feel dumb for having read it.
It is kind of a Meg Cabot level of YA. Except Meg Cabot tends to be more enjoyable. So that is why I gave it 2 stars. It was OK but most of the time it was just painful!
It was like having someone hitting me over the head with a frying pan. Mostly uncomfortable and not good for the brain.
June 23, 2011
I really enjoyed this, it was like a love letter to NYC <3 A cute book
Read
January 26, 2016An uncomplicated story of two people in New York who fall in love within the last 30 pages.
October 5, 2014
1,5 ugh stars
Well, this was bad. I was in for a mindless read, but this was brainless and absolutely ridiculous. Not only the plot and the story overall is too basic and with little to no development (thus referred to its characters as well), but it's also so poorly written it hurts. There are even excerpts that are copy/pasted in both points of view, with minor changes. Like, seriously? Besides, the main characters do not act like teens but super-craptastic-sub-teens with the intelligence of a nut.
"New York, OMG, GAH, NEW YORK ASJDFHASJKDASD."
"OH MY GAWD, PANCAKES, WHAT, OH GOD, PAAAAANCAAAAAAAKEEESSSS, YUMM, ORGASM, YES."
That's basically how Jessie and her friend, Emma, are. They were plain and dumb, especially Jessie, whose reactions and decisions were stupid at its best. And the plotline was painfully predictable and also clichéd (oh, insta-love). There was nothing special about it, nothing new, and that's why I wouldn't recommend this to anyone (unless you don't mind reading a short story about cardboard cut outs as characters).
Well, this was bad. I was in for a mindless read, but this was brainless and absolutely ridiculous. Not only the plot and the story overall is too basic and with little to no development (thus referred to its characters as well), but it's also so poorly written it hurts. There are even excerpts that are copy/pasted in both points of view, with minor changes. Like, seriously? Besides, the main characters do not act like teens but super-craptastic-sub-teens with the intelligence of a nut.
"New York, OMG, GAH, NEW YORK ASJDFHASJKDASD."
"OH MY GAWD, PANCAKES, WHAT, OH GOD, PAAAAANCAAAAAAAKEEESSSS, YUMM, ORGASM, YES."
That's basically how Jessie and her friend, Emma, are. They were plain and dumb, especially Jessie, whose reactions and decisions were stupid at its best. And the plotline was painfully predictable and also clichéd (oh, insta-love). There was nothing special about it, nothing new, and that's why I wouldn't recommend this to anyone (unless you don't mind reading a short story about cardboard cut outs as characters).
Read
June 28, 2011Jessie and her best friend Emma are off to NYC to visit Jessie's mum.
Finn lives in NYC and is trying to get out of going into the same career as his dad.
I really enjoyed this book. It's a great light read with lots of little giggles in.
Throughout the book Jessie and Finn constantly have close misses with each other. They go to the same cafe, walk through the same park. MY GOD the tension...each time they pass I swear my heart nearly jumped out of my chest wondering when and where they would finally meet properly....I will leave that a mystery for you to discover..
The book also tackles some of the troubles of parents divorcing and trying to split your life between the two parents, trying to find the balance and dealing with their new partners, which by the way isn't easy in this book.
A great light, summer read about growing up, exploring somewhere new and maybe finding that special someone.
August 4, 2011
Loved it! Pure escapism.
February 16, 2016
I found the characters unlikable and unbelievable, and the writing to be similar to fanfiction. I enjoyed that it was based in NY though, as it's my favourite city in the world.
March 10, 2018
I`ve wanted to read this book from Keris Stainton`s back catalogue for years, so after receiving it for Christmas it seemed only fitting to make it among my 1st reads of 2018. It`s the story of Jessie as she goes to visit her rather estranged mum in New York, and Finn, a New Yorker grappling with friendship issues and his family`s expectations of him. The not knowing how their paths would cross was super interesting, and I liked them a lot together when they eventually did. The book, while in 3rd person, still feels like a dual narrative as we flip between perspectives of each character, and I was pleased that I enjoyed both equally. I loved Jessie as a character, and I thought her friend Emma was really funny. My final favourite thing about the book was, of course, experiencing New York. Even though I have never been, I think it looks incredible, and this made me feel as though I was there. Jessie Hearts NYC has a delightful romcom feel to it that I loved seeing those are my favourite sort of films a lot of the time and I`m excited to discover L.A in a hopefully similar way in the sequel. 4.5/5
December 1, 2011
Are there any people left in the world who believe in love at first sight? In fate? Destined meetings? Coincidence?
You don't? You might want to read Jessie Hearts New York to become a believer again.
Journey through Broadway, see the Empire State Building and feel what it's like to be in New York in this sweet novel about meeting at the right place at the right time but never really seeing each other and finding love at the place you least expect to.
Jessie had always dreamed about living in New York. Now she's mending a broken heart and her mother is successfully conquering Broadway with a play she wrote, Jessie, together with her friend Emma, flew to the famed city that never sleeps, New York. Finn, a New Yorker, has been living in New York for quite a while and he's in a dilemma. He's in love with Sam. The only problem is, Sam is his best friend's girlfriend. They were part of the thousands of people living in a city as big as New York, but when Fate intervenes, will they grab the chance to be with each other?
Jessie was finally living her dream of being in New York but she also had problems to deal with even when she's in the city she wanted to live all her life. Jessie still feels like her mom loves her work more than her, and the guy she likes, Ben, might not be into her like she think he is. Jessie is a vibrant teenage girl. Very normal. She feels unloved by her mother and she just really wants to have fun in New York. Finn is this cute guy who's been pining for a girl he knew he can never have. He's a genuinely good guy who deserves to have someone to love him wholeheartedly. He's charming, but he's at a crossroads in his life. To follow a path that will make his parents happy or go out on his own and do what he loves?
Serendipity. I have never been one to believe in destined meetings or coincidences but I guess if something was meant to be then it will be.Finn and Jessie are just two amongst thousands of people living in New York, but they have been connected to each other closer than they think. I find it extremely cute how Jessie bumps into a guy in a diner, not knowing it was Finn all along. Or how Jessie talking about her father's love of architecture has influenced Finn to follow his dreams of being an architect himself than be an insurance guy. Finn didn't know it was Jessie talking. Both of them were present during the moments that defined certain parts of their life during their stay in New York and it gave them a deep connection even before they actually meet! How amazing and rare is that? Is it really possible?
The chance meeting and the way each of their lives progresses alongside each other felt unique for me. Simultaneously happening but totally independent of each other. It's certainly an interesting way of presenting stories of two people who will inevitably meet and realize they were meant for each other. There was enough drama happening on both Finn and Jessie to keep readers distracted and just when you think they will never meet, the story takes a magical turn and then everything falls into the right place.
It might just be me, but I have issues with Jessie's mother. I have nothing against older women dating younger men, but I felt that her shortcomings as a mother should not have been easily let off. Maybe because my values are different, but it took me a while to take in Jessie's family's situation. It was definitely awkward. Also! Emma is another interesting character whose story I'm looking forward to reading. And this book just made me want to go to New York!
Jessie Hearts NYC is a lovely story that tells us that sometimes, the person we need to complete us is closer to us than we think. In Jessie and Finn's case, it took them quite a few number of times, being in the same place at the same time, liking the same Sesame Street character and wanting to marry them, crashing one's birthday parties and meeting at a restaurant without planning to. Awfully romantic, sweet and entertaining, it's a story that shows us just how mysterious the universe works.
You don't? You might want to read Jessie Hearts New York to become a believer again.
Journey through Broadway, see the Empire State Building and feel what it's like to be in New York in this sweet novel about meeting at the right place at the right time but never really seeing each other and finding love at the place you least expect to.
Jessie had always dreamed about living in New York. Now she's mending a broken heart and her mother is successfully conquering Broadway with a play she wrote, Jessie, together with her friend Emma, flew to the famed city that never sleeps, New York. Finn, a New Yorker, has been living in New York for quite a while and he's in a dilemma. He's in love with Sam. The only problem is, Sam is his best friend's girlfriend. They were part of the thousands of people living in a city as big as New York, but when Fate intervenes, will they grab the chance to be with each other?
Jessie was finally living her dream of being in New York but she also had problems to deal with even when she's in the city she wanted to live all her life. Jessie still feels like her mom loves her work more than her, and the guy she likes, Ben, might not be into her like she think he is. Jessie is a vibrant teenage girl. Very normal. She feels unloved by her mother and she just really wants to have fun in New York. Finn is this cute guy who's been pining for a girl he knew he can never have. He's a genuinely good guy who deserves to have someone to love him wholeheartedly. He's charming, but he's at a crossroads in his life. To follow a path that will make his parents happy or go out on his own and do what he loves?
Serendipity. I have never been one to believe in destined meetings or coincidences but I guess if something was meant to be then it will be.Finn and Jessie are just two amongst thousands of people living in New York, but they have been connected to each other closer than they think. I find it extremely cute how Jessie bumps into a guy in a diner, not knowing it was Finn all along. Or how Jessie talking about her father's love of architecture has influenced Finn to follow his dreams of being an architect himself than be an insurance guy. Finn didn't know it was Jessie talking. Both of them were present during the moments that defined certain parts of their life during their stay in New York and it gave them a deep connection even before they actually meet! How amazing and rare is that? Is it really possible?
The chance meeting and the way each of their lives progresses alongside each other felt unique for me. Simultaneously happening but totally independent of each other. It's certainly an interesting way of presenting stories of two people who will inevitably meet and realize they were meant for each other. There was enough drama happening on both Finn and Jessie to keep readers distracted and just when you think they will never meet, the story takes a magical turn and then everything falls into the right place.
It might just be me, but I have issues with Jessie's mother. I have nothing against older women dating younger men, but I felt that her shortcomings as a mother should not have been easily let off. Maybe because my values are different, but it took me a while to take in Jessie's family's situation. It was definitely awkward. Also! Emma is another interesting character whose story I'm looking forward to reading. And this book just made me want to go to New York!
Jessie Hearts NYC is a lovely story that tells us that sometimes, the person we need to complete us is closer to us than we think. In Jessie and Finn's case, it took them quite a few number of times, being in the same place at the same time, liking the same Sesame Street character and wanting to marry them, crashing one's birthday parties and meeting at a restaurant without planning to. Awfully romantic, sweet and entertaining, it's a story that shows us just how mysterious the universe works.
August 16, 2012
Originally posted on Once Upon a Bookcase.
I really enjoyed Keris Stainton's first novel, Della Says: "OMG!", so I was really looking forward to trying her second. Unfortunately, I didn't love Jessie Hearts NYC as much as I would have hoped.
Stainton is one of those authors who is a huge part of the blogosphere; not only has she been involved with a number of bookish blogs, she also interacts with readers and other authors on Twitter quite a lot (@Keris). So she's one of those authors I consider to be "one of us". Because of this, it's really difficult to write what is a less than glowing review for a book by someone I really like. But I guess we can't like all books.
Jessie Hearts NYC is a dual narrative, with Jessie and Finn getting their own point of view in alternating chapters. I wasn't the biggest fan of Jessie. I didn't find her very believable. There was just something about the way she responded to things that didn't feel right to me - they weren't the responses I would have expected, or the way she responded wasn't what I expected, like laughing when I couldn't see anything funny. On top of that, I also found her to be quite naive and just a tad selfish. Maybe it's my age (god, that makes me feel old!), but there were certain things that were going on in the story that just seemed so obvious, yet Jessie was clueless. And everything her mother did, she looked at those actions or words on how they effected her, seeming to completely forget her mother has her own life, and that the world doesn't revolve around her. In some situations, I could understand her feelings, but in general... I just didn't like her.I have read books where characters were similarly naive and selfish, but I just had a really hard time with Jessie.
Finn, on the other hand, was perfect. I found his story the most believable, but also the most interesting. He was completely real, he reacted in all the ways I would have expected him too, and he was just so lovely, despite his mistakes! He was such a sweet guy, and despite his feeling for the wonderful Sam, he always tried to repress his feelings as she was his best mate's girlfriend - though that didn't work much, he tried. His heart was definitely in the right place, he just screwed up a little. Like with Jessie, he also has some issues with his family, and I found his story, working out who he is and what he wanted, and dealing with that to be really lovely. He was just such a cool guy!
I'm not sure I can really say much more without spoiling the story. In all, Jessie Hearts NYC wasn't a bad book, I really enjoyed reading Finn's story. As I really loved Della Says "OMG!" and I've heard that Stainton's third book, Emma Hearts LA, is her best novel, I'm really looking forward to giving it a go despite not being all that keen on this one. Please read a few other reviews before deciding whether or not you think Jessie Hearts NYC is for you, don't base your choice on my review alone.
I really enjoyed Keris Stainton's first novel, Della Says: "OMG!", so I was really looking forward to trying her second. Unfortunately, I didn't love Jessie Hearts NYC as much as I would have hoped.
Stainton is one of those authors who is a huge part of the blogosphere; not only has she been involved with a number of bookish blogs, she also interacts with readers and other authors on Twitter quite a lot (@Keris). So she's one of those authors I consider to be "one of us". Because of this, it's really difficult to write what is a less than glowing review for a book by someone I really like. But I guess we can't like all books.
Jessie Hearts NYC is a dual narrative, with Jessie and Finn getting their own point of view in alternating chapters. I wasn't the biggest fan of Jessie. I didn't find her very believable. There was just something about the way she responded to things that didn't feel right to me - they weren't the responses I would have expected, or the way she responded wasn't what I expected, like laughing when I couldn't see anything funny. On top of that, I also found her to be quite naive and just a tad selfish. Maybe it's my age (god, that makes me feel old!), but there were certain things that were going on in the story that just seemed so obvious, yet Jessie was clueless. And everything her mother did, she looked at those actions or words on how they effected her, seeming to completely forget her mother has her own life, and that the world doesn't revolve around her. In some situations, I could understand her feelings, but in general... I just didn't like her.I have read books where characters were similarly naive and selfish, but I just had a really hard time with Jessie.
Finn, on the other hand, was perfect. I found his story the most believable, but also the most interesting. He was completely real, he reacted in all the ways I would have expected him too, and he was just so lovely, despite his mistakes! He was such a sweet guy, and despite his feeling for the wonderful Sam, he always tried to repress his feelings as she was his best mate's girlfriend - though that didn't work much, he tried. His heart was definitely in the right place, he just screwed up a little. Like with Jessie, he also has some issues with his family, and I found his story, working out who he is and what he wanted, and dealing with that to be really lovely. He was just such a cool guy!
I'm not sure I can really say much more without spoiling the story. In all, Jessie Hearts NYC wasn't a bad book, I really enjoyed reading Finn's story. As I really loved Della Says "OMG!" and I've heard that Stainton's third book, Emma Hearts LA, is her best novel, I'm really looking forward to giving it a go despite not being all that keen on this one. Please read a few other reviews before deciding whether or not you think Jessie Hearts NYC is for you, don't base your choice on my review alone.
August 30, 2011
I really enjoyed this light easy read story. It takes place when Jessie and her bestfriend Emma are going on a trip to New York (since Jessies mom lives there) so shes gone to visit her and to explore all of New York because its her dream. It also takes place around Finn who lives in New York and was brought up there. They both have problems of their own with them both in New York, Jessies with her and her moms relationship and also from just splitting up from her ex. Finns problems consist around him being in love with his best friends girlfriend.
I really enjoyed it because everything was around New York. This book made you feel like you was actually there. And since its been a dream of mine to actually go it felt nice to read a story that is mainly based around everything there. It spoke of the films made there, the tv shows and the most famous places, it was so cute.
I think this books main focus was fate. About how fate can make Jessie and Finn be brought together. How out of eight billion people these two were made for each other. I loved the whole concept of the two of them always bumping into each other but not noticing the other, because it made you think that have you ever bumped into your future relationship without you knowing. It always made you think that everything happens for a reason.
The characters were amazing. I loved Jessie, I felt why she couldnt get along with her mom because I wouldnt either if I was in the same situation. I felt she was very natrually easy going and nice and just wanted to get her moms attention now and then. I loved Finn too. I understood it was bad of him to like his best friends girlfriend, but sometimes these things happened and he wasnt a bad person because he didnt want to hurt his friend. He is the easy friendly going guy who just wants to be able to make his own choices, instead of his family making them for him.
The only thing I did not like about this book was that there wasnt alot of romance. Even though it was about Jessie and Finn keep bumping in to one and other and romance in New York, I didnt find there was alot of it. I wanted more, I know I sound greedy but I did. I wanted to see more of there friendship and relationship. There could of been a few more chapters for me, so I hope she makes a companion or sequel.
But I did enjoy it overall because Im obsessed with New York and hope one day to go there to. Because I wouldnt mind following in Jessie footsteps and having an amazing trip like her.
Overall I rate this an A.
I really enjoyed it because everything was around New York. This book made you feel like you was actually there. And since its been a dream of mine to actually go it felt nice to read a story that is mainly based around everything there. It spoke of the films made there, the tv shows and the most famous places, it was so cute.
I think this books main focus was fate. About how fate can make Jessie and Finn be brought together. How out of eight billion people these two were made for each other. I loved the whole concept of the two of them always bumping into each other but not noticing the other, because it made you think that have you ever bumped into your future relationship without you knowing. It always made you think that everything happens for a reason.
The characters were amazing. I loved Jessie, I felt why she couldnt get along with her mom because I wouldnt either if I was in the same situation. I felt she was very natrually easy going and nice and just wanted to get her moms attention now and then. I loved Finn too. I understood it was bad of him to like his best friends girlfriend, but sometimes these things happened and he wasnt a bad person because he didnt want to hurt his friend. He is the easy friendly going guy who just wants to be able to make his own choices, instead of his family making them for him.
The only thing I did not like about this book was that there wasnt alot of romance. Even though it was about Jessie and Finn keep bumping in to one and other and romance in New York, I didnt find there was alot of it. I wanted more, I know I sound greedy but I did. I wanted to see more of there friendship and relationship. There could of been a few more chapters for me, so I hope she makes a companion or sequel.
But I did enjoy it overall because Im obsessed with New York and hope one day to go there to. Because I wouldnt mind following in Jessie footsteps and having an amazing trip like her.
Overall I rate this an A.
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