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Tales from Aintree Court
Butterfly Porcupine
At the end of the school term Kai's summer was all planned Party, date the hottest girl around, play football, play basketball and pursue his hobby, taking pictures with his camera. He lands a job working for a professional photographer, and gets to spend the last weekend of summer at the Reading Music Festival. Life is good for Kai. That is, until a new arrival to Aintree moves into the house across from his.... Tasha's summer was all planned out settle in her new home and keep a low profile. She gets sucked into joining the clique of teenagers in the area but she soon discovers that not everyone in Aintree is thrilled to have her around. Homesick and unable to fit in, life is not exactly great for Tasha. That is, until she receives an unexpected, genuine offer of friendship… or is it?
- GenresYoung AdultContemporary
238 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2011
458 people want to read
About the author
Susan Francis
2 books53 followersI’m an independent author and avid reader of books. I also enjoy writing (unsolicited) reviews and I have a review blog at http://soozbookreviews.blogspot.co.uk/. Like many, for me writing came out of a love of reading. I also wanted a way to be creative and, since I have always been more comfortable expressing myself through the written word, it seemed like the best way forward for me. I started my first novel, Butterfly porcupine, in 2009 and what I discovered was a sheer love of the writing process and the joy that comes from actually completing a novel. Butterfly porcupine was published in 2011 and is the first of a coming-of-age contemporary series called Tales from Aintree Court. A second revised edition was published in July 2012 along with an electronic version. My second novel, 'Two versions of the same song', the second Aintree tale, was published in December 2012 and I am currently writing the third in the series.
The stories are pitched at the level for readers in their mid-to-late teens but may be enjoyed by adults who enjoy reading contemporary YA fiction also.
The stories are pitched at the level for readers in their mid-to-late teens but may be enjoyed by adults who enjoy reading contemporary YA fiction also.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 16, 2012
First of all I would love to thank Susan Francis for providing me with an ebook of Butterfly Porcupine in exchange for a review. And I have to say that I was quite surprised my this story. It is a simple coming-of-age story told in two POV's, and I found myself saying 'just one more chapter' and that turned into finishing the book in pretty much one sitting.
The story is set around Tasha and Kai. Tasha moves from Trinidad to West London, where she will live with her estranged father and his new family. They live in a gated community called Aintree Court, where Kai is her neighbour. It's a pretty closed off community that focus on family and community spirit, but being so close knit means that everyone knows your business. And to Tasha, there is nothing more mortifying, considering how closed off and shy she is. Kai, on the other hand, is completely opposite. He is popular, good looking, has all the girls swooning and a really bright future for himself. Oh man, I even find myself falling in love with him. He was deliciously coated in dairy milk and on the inside, he was like caramel, gooey and sweet. I really loved his character. So, when Tasha first lays on him, yes she sees what he looks like on the outside, and then prejudges him to be this player type, when in fact, he really isn't. And, Kai goes out of his way to really make an effort to get to know her, and try and break her shell.
Well now, this story really had me all caught up and I found myself flustered and frustrated, captivated and bewildered, annoyed and irritated, and happy and elated. I'm telling you I really felt like I was giddy and excited one minute, and then I wanted to beat the wall to a pulp, the next minute, preferably with Tasha's head. Don't get me wrong, I quite liked her character. I liked how strong and determined she is to get on with her life, stand her ground and not really care what others think. But, she was also relentlessly stubborn to no avail and annoying. Yes, I totally understand what it's like be reserved and shy and feeling awkward and not comfortable and self-conscious, but enough is enough. Here was a guy, Kai, who was popular, much loved, creative and going somewhere, wanting to be with her, putting in all the effort and hard work, and she would shut him down always. This is what frustrated me the most. At times I wanted Kai to just give up, and I felt his pain; but other times I really wanted him to succeed and press on. To not abandon her, and fight hard for her love and attention. What infuriated me the most was the incident with the photo. OMG! As an artist myself, I was completely bewildered by her reaction to Kai secretly snapping a picture of her, all be it at a vulnerable moment, and then entering it in a competition. Okay, I get that he forgot to mention to her that he had done this, but good God almighty, I think her issues about having her photo out there for everyone to view was a bit extreme. But I guess she is very sensitive like that.
All in all I really enjoyed this book, and if you find yourself thinking what to read, I think that this story will surprise you and it's refreshing to read about life of teenagers living in London.
The story is set around Tasha and Kai. Tasha moves from Trinidad to West London, where she will live with her estranged father and his new family. They live in a gated community called Aintree Court, where Kai is her neighbour. It's a pretty closed off community that focus on family and community spirit, but being so close knit means that everyone knows your business. And to Tasha, there is nothing more mortifying, considering how closed off and shy she is. Kai, on the other hand, is completely opposite. He is popular, good looking, has all the girls swooning and a really bright future for himself. Oh man, I even find myself falling in love with him. He was deliciously coated in dairy milk and on the inside, he was like caramel, gooey and sweet. I really loved his character. So, when Tasha first lays on him, yes she sees what he looks like on the outside, and then prejudges him to be this player type, when in fact, he really isn't. And, Kai goes out of his way to really make an effort to get to know her, and try and break her shell.
Well now, this story really had me all caught up and I found myself flustered and frustrated, captivated and bewildered, annoyed and irritated, and happy and elated. I'm telling you I really felt like I was giddy and excited one minute, and then I wanted to beat the wall to a pulp, the next minute, preferably with Tasha's head. Don't get me wrong, I quite liked her character. I liked how strong and determined she is to get on with her life, stand her ground and not really care what others think. But, she was also relentlessly stubborn to no avail and annoying. Yes, I totally understand what it's like be reserved and shy and feeling awkward and not comfortable and self-conscious, but enough is enough. Here was a guy, Kai, who was popular, much loved, creative and going somewhere, wanting to be with her, putting in all the effort and hard work, and she would shut him down always. This is what frustrated me the most. At times I wanted Kai to just give up, and I felt his pain; but other times I really wanted him to succeed and press on. To not abandon her, and fight hard for her love and attention. What infuriated me the most was the incident with the photo. OMG! As an artist myself, I was completely bewildered by her reaction to Kai secretly snapping a picture of her, all be it at a vulnerable moment, and then entering it in a competition. Okay, I get that he forgot to mention to her that he had done this, but good God almighty, I think her issues about having her photo out there for everyone to view was a bit extreme. But I guess she is very sensitive like that.
All in all I really enjoyed this book, and if you find yourself thinking what to read, I think that this story will surprise you and it's refreshing to read about life of teenagers living in London.
October 14, 2012
Yay! A YA romance with a non-caucasian couple! I'm so glad I finally found one. I love diversity and embrace it and teach my students to do the same. So it was so refreshing to finally read a YA book that the main characters weren't caucasian.
The romance here was so sweet. I just loved Kai and Tasha. They were such great characters to read about. And I loved the alternating POV between them both. I loved being able to find out how each main character felt in the situation at hand. It took some time for me to warm up to Tasha, but I think I really relate to her. I can be quite shy around people I don't know that well and I know it has come off as me being stuck up. So I totally knew what Tasha was going through. Also, I had to deal with my dad's second wife who despised me so, again, I knew exactly where Tasha was coming from and how she felt.
I stayed up all night finishing this book, it was just so enthralling. I'm a sucker for a good love story and this certainly was one. The first half did drag on at times, but the second half was totally worth it. I love that the relationship wasn't simple. Things were complicated and that made it a much more interesting story. I guess you could call it playing hard to get, what Tasha was doing. But I think it was just her personality.
I also really appreciated that it wasn't all about the physical. Sure sex came up and was discussed, which is par for the course when teens are involved (lol), but it wasn't the main focus. I appreciate that their relationship was stronger than that. I hope young people understand this and build strong relationships with each other before sex is involved.
Thanks to the author for the free copy. It was a pleasure to read and I appreciate the opportunity!
p.s. I assume from the tag that this will be a series of sort. I wonder if it will follow the same characters. If so, I can't wait to find out how Kai and Tasha's relationship blossoms! :)
The romance here was so sweet. I just loved Kai and Tasha. They were such great characters to read about. And I loved the alternating POV between them both. I loved being able to find out how each main character felt in the situation at hand. It took some time for me to warm up to Tasha, but I think I really relate to her. I can be quite shy around people I don't know that well and I know it has come off as me being stuck up. So I totally knew what Tasha was going through. Also, I had to deal with my dad's second wife who despised me so, again, I knew exactly where Tasha was coming from and how she felt.
I stayed up all night finishing this book, it was just so enthralling. I'm a sucker for a good love story and this certainly was one. The first half did drag on at times, but the second half was totally worth it. I love that the relationship wasn't simple. Things were complicated and that made it a much more interesting story. I guess you could call it playing hard to get, what Tasha was doing. But I think it was just her personality.
I also really appreciated that it wasn't all about the physical. Sure sex came up and was discussed, which is par for the course when teens are involved (lol), but it wasn't the main focus. I appreciate that their relationship was stronger than that. I hope young people understand this and build strong relationships with each other before sex is involved.
Thanks to the author for the free copy. It was a pleasure to read and I appreciate the opportunity!
p.s. I assume from the tag that this will be a series of sort. I wonder if it will follow the same characters. If so, I can't wait to find out how Kai and Tasha's relationship blossoms! :)
June 26, 2017
I would like to thank the author for the book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book and found it easy to get into. It is a romance, but it is not instant love. It is romance that has to be worked for with many obstacles in the way.
Tasha has lived in Trinidad with her mom since her parents divorce. Now at almost 17 she decides to go live with her dad in Aintree Court, in London, to finish out her school. It is a closed housing community where everyone knows everyone. Here she meets some knew friends and builds new relationships, and here is where she meets Kai. Both of them misjudge each other at first, but eventually they are able to be friends and then more than friends, but mostly in secret. Secret because Tasha's dad is extremely strict and doesn't allow her to date. But then Kai does something that Tasha feels betrayed her and her trust in him. Now they have to fight and decide if they will ever even be friends again.
I really liked Kai. I feel he was misjudged often, but he often meant well. and he was such a good guy, and easy to love. I found myself relating to Tasha and her shy personality. It shows you not to judge someone before you know anything about them. She did annoy me with her prickly judgement sometimes, though.
Great book that I highly recommend to older teens, and adults. I lwill be on the lookout for future books from Susan Francis.
I really enjoyed this book and found it easy to get into. It is a romance, but it is not instant love. It is romance that has to be worked for with many obstacles in the way.
Tasha has lived in Trinidad with her mom since her parents divorce. Now at almost 17 she decides to go live with her dad in Aintree Court, in London, to finish out her school. It is a closed housing community where everyone knows everyone. Here she meets some knew friends and builds new relationships, and here is where she meets Kai. Both of them misjudge each other at first, but eventually they are able to be friends and then more than friends, but mostly in secret. Secret because Tasha's dad is extremely strict and doesn't allow her to date. But then Kai does something that Tasha feels betrayed her and her trust in him. Now they have to fight and decide if they will ever even be friends again.
I really liked Kai. I feel he was misjudged often, but he often meant well. and he was such a good guy, and easy to love. I found myself relating to Tasha and her shy personality. It shows you not to judge someone before you know anything about them. She did annoy me with her prickly judgement sometimes, though.
Great book that I highly recommend to older teens, and adults. I lwill be on the lookout for future books from Susan Francis.
November 7, 2012
You can also find this review at http://girlinthewoodsreviews.blogspot...
Detailed Review: Somehow, the author's simplicity seems to fit in well with the story. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and the name of the book was what initially sparked my interest in reading it. I thought that it was a really good name for this book after I'd read it. I've just started contemporaries last month, since my all-time favourites are still fantasy/paranormal.
The story shows how two people are affected by each other, and with the help of their friends and family backgrounds, they find themselves twining slowly together.
Natasha Wood comes from Trinidad, somewhere in the Mediterranean islands to complete her A levels. She's sad to leave her old friends and school, but particularly her mother. She has been planning to go back to visit her father in London, who'd divorced with her mother and married another woman instead.
Kai Hansen has good looks and a girlfriend he's been wanting for ages. But since Tasha's appearance, he and Phoebe are slowly pushing away each other. There's just something that's innocent about her... not to mention that she was very pretty.
They live opposite each other in a close-knit community that's meant to nurture the best and is founded by the Marshalls, who were very selective in those who lived in Aintree.
A relationship starts to bloom between the two of them, and whether they liked it or not, especially Tasha, they seen develop feelings for each other. Tasha has been pushing away everybody who've been trying to help her after her best friend's death, but after a phone call from Kai, she starts to open up, letting him in. The porcupine is starting to shed its bristles, as I would put it.
But then, everything shatters. Kai's a photographer and one day he managed to take a picture of Tasha looking sad and mournful without her knowledge. His uncle, also a photographer, urged him to enter it for a competition. And so he did. He didn't let the model know.
Their relationship starts to grow into something more, but guess what?
Kai's photo wins first prize and this time there's no hiding his guilty secret. He doesn't even mean to hurt Tasha and finally managed to screw everything up because of her father. He's really strict and asked Kai to apologise to Tasha in front of their dads and told him relinquish his prize. But there was no use, the deed was done. Tasha had already moved on, leaving Kai and his friends behind, slipping from his life.
But then in the end they still got together.You'll have to really read this book to know what happened to put them together. I'm sorry, but I don't want to spoil too much of it if not NOBODY would ever buy this book to see how good it actually is.
It's actually quite good that the author could make a simple storyline so GOOD. This book far exceeded my expectations. So...
Brief Review: I was happy to find out that this was the first book in a series called Aintree Tales! Can't wait to read the next book. I recommend it to anyone who don't like it too overwhelming and is simple but entertaining.
Detailed Review: Somehow, the author's simplicity seems to fit in well with the story. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and the name of the book was what initially sparked my interest in reading it. I thought that it was a really good name for this book after I'd read it. I've just started contemporaries last month, since my all-time favourites are still fantasy/paranormal.
The story shows how two people are affected by each other, and with the help of their friends and family backgrounds, they find themselves twining slowly together.
Natasha Wood comes from Trinidad, somewhere in the Mediterranean islands to complete her A levels. She's sad to leave her old friends and school, but particularly her mother. She has been planning to go back to visit her father in London, who'd divorced with her mother and married another woman instead.
Kai Hansen has good looks and a girlfriend he's been wanting for ages. But since Tasha's appearance, he and Phoebe are slowly pushing away each other. There's just something that's innocent about her... not to mention that she was very pretty.
They live opposite each other in a close-knit community that's meant to nurture the best and is founded by the Marshalls, who were very selective in those who lived in Aintree.
A relationship starts to bloom between the two of them, and whether they liked it or not, especially Tasha, they seen develop feelings for each other. Tasha has been pushing away everybody who've been trying to help her after her best friend's death, but after a phone call from Kai, she starts to open up, letting him in. The porcupine is starting to shed its bristles, as I would put it.
But then, everything shatters. Kai's a photographer and one day he managed to take a picture of Tasha looking sad and mournful without her knowledge. His uncle, also a photographer, urged him to enter it for a competition. And so he did. He didn't let the model know.
Their relationship starts to grow into something more, but guess what?
Kai's photo wins first prize and this time there's no hiding his guilty secret. He doesn't even mean to hurt Tasha and finally managed to screw everything up because of her father. He's really strict and asked Kai to apologise to Tasha in front of their dads and told him relinquish his prize. But there was no use, the deed was done. Tasha had already moved on, leaving Kai and his friends behind, slipping from his life.
But then in the end they still got together.You'll have to really read this book to know what happened to put them together. I'm sorry, but I don't want to spoil too much of it if not NOBODY would ever buy this book to see how good it actually is.
It's actually quite good that the author could make a simple storyline so GOOD. This book far exceeded my expectations. So...
Brief Review: I was happy to find out that this was the first book in a series called Aintree Tales! Can't wait to read the next book. I recommend it to anyone who don't like it too overwhelming and is simple but entertaining.
July 16, 2012
Firstly i would like to thank the author Susan Francis for sending me a copy of her book and letting me review it..
Kai lives in a tight Knit community called the Aintree court he has his friends and lives with his dad and sister after his mum left them to go to live in Australia. Kai is what you consider a popular guy girls adore him and he is easy to become friends with. He is a very likeable guy. He also loves photography and taking photos of buildings and people. Life was going great for him until the new arrival at Aintree Court.
Tasha leaves everyone and everything behind when moves in with her estranged dad and step-mother and their son Marc. Tasha is a very private person and hard to get to know. She doesnt like being the centre of attention and doesnt like any type of attention at all. Kai calls Tasha a Porcupine - the prickly exterior is a defense mechanism but she's worth it in the end, i think this name fits her perfectly. When she moves she has to try to settle in her new home and get to know her family if they let her ( her step mum is very difficult), but her main objective is to keep a low profile. But the problem with that is that in this community everyone knows everything and they all know she is coming.
So when Kai finally meets Tash he becomes intrested. Tash makes friends with Serena who is very close to Kai and the rest of their group but some of them are not as friendly as others. Kai sudden intrest in the new girl starts trouble with Pheobe who he is seeing, so Tash decides to stop hanging out with the group until things cool down. When Tash's friend from back home suddenly passes away she is devestated and Kai who hasnt spoken to her in awhile catches her at a very valnerable time and unknown to her takes a photo of her. So when Pheobe and Kai break up he calls her and a friendship is formed and then it becomes more than friendship. But then Kai makes a big mistake by entering the photo of Tasha in a competition. Will it cost him the girl he loves ?? will she ever forgive him?? well i guess you have to read to find out. I loved it that we got to read both Kai and Tasha's POV, so we knew what they were thinking and feeling, and how confused they really were.
I must say i cannot wait to see what else Aintree Tales has to offer because i really enjoyed this one.
Kai lives in a tight Knit community called the Aintree court he has his friends and lives with his dad and sister after his mum left them to go to live in Australia. Kai is what you consider a popular guy girls adore him and he is easy to become friends with. He is a very likeable guy. He also loves photography and taking photos of buildings and people. Life was going great for him until the new arrival at Aintree Court.
Tasha leaves everyone and everything behind when moves in with her estranged dad and step-mother and their son Marc. Tasha is a very private person and hard to get to know. She doesnt like being the centre of attention and doesnt like any type of attention at all. Kai calls Tasha a Porcupine - the prickly exterior is a defense mechanism but she's worth it in the end, i think this name fits her perfectly. When she moves she has to try to settle in her new home and get to know her family if they let her ( her step mum is very difficult), but her main objective is to keep a low profile. But the problem with that is that in this community everyone knows everything and they all know she is coming.
So when Kai finally meets Tash he becomes intrested. Tash makes friends with Serena who is very close to Kai and the rest of their group but some of them are not as friendly as others. Kai sudden intrest in the new girl starts trouble with Pheobe who he is seeing, so Tash decides to stop hanging out with the group until things cool down. When Tash's friend from back home suddenly passes away she is devestated and Kai who hasnt spoken to her in awhile catches her at a very valnerable time and unknown to her takes a photo of her. So when Pheobe and Kai break up he calls her and a friendship is formed and then it becomes more than friendship. But then Kai makes a big mistake by entering the photo of Tasha in a competition. Will it cost him the girl he loves ?? will she ever forgive him?? well i guess you have to read to find out. I loved it that we got to read both Kai and Tasha's POV, so we knew what they were thinking and feeling, and how confused they really were.
I must say i cannot wait to see what else Aintree Tales has to offer because i really enjoyed this one.
July 16, 2012
I'd like to first say thank you to author Susan Francis for allowing me to have a copy of her work for review!! I started Butterfly Porcupine and finished it in the same day, it was a sweet story.
Kai and Tasha seemed like such opposites when we first meet them. Kai is personable and has a lot of friends, and his girlfriend is just as outgoing and social as he is. Tasha is new to town, shy, and prefers to be left alone. But living in Aintree meant handing your privacy over to the neighborhood, and Tasha made the best of the situation by befriending some of the other teens. She never expected the feelings she starts to have for Kai despite his well-known relationship. But as family troubles and some unfriendly treatment from the others had her leaning on Kai, they both started to realize that there may be something more there. Kai had to get past Tasha's walls if he wanted to have any kind of relationship with her, though, and she really made him work for it!
I liked Kai a lot, he was so swoon-worthy and I loved his laid-back attitude. He had issues with just coming out and being honest about things at times, but he was man enough to try and make up for his mistakes. He grew a lot in the story, too, I liked that we got to see him really step into adulthood. He really cared for Tasha, and it broke my heart when she pushed him away!!
Tasha was a strong-willed heroine, she stood up for herself and didn't let anyone walk all over her despite many attempts to do so. I liked that she was strong and made her own decisions, not just being what someone else needed her to be. I admit I didn't feel as connected to her as I like to with a main character, and I did feel like she overreacted to situations at times. But she had morals and standards that she believed strongly in, and I respected that she stood by them. Tasha really made some changes towards the end of the book that I was very happy to see, too. She steps out of her shell and way out of her comfort zone, becoming the new, more mature Tasha, and only then was she really ready to decide on her feelings for Kai.
Overall, this was a sweet story and I enjoyed seeing Tasha and Kai make their journey together! I'm curious to see who will be in the sequel!!
Kai and Tasha seemed like such opposites when we first meet them. Kai is personable and has a lot of friends, and his girlfriend is just as outgoing and social as he is. Tasha is new to town, shy, and prefers to be left alone. But living in Aintree meant handing your privacy over to the neighborhood, and Tasha made the best of the situation by befriending some of the other teens. She never expected the feelings she starts to have for Kai despite his well-known relationship. But as family troubles and some unfriendly treatment from the others had her leaning on Kai, they both started to realize that there may be something more there. Kai had to get past Tasha's walls if he wanted to have any kind of relationship with her, though, and she really made him work for it!
I liked Kai a lot, he was so swoon-worthy and I loved his laid-back attitude. He had issues with just coming out and being honest about things at times, but he was man enough to try and make up for his mistakes. He grew a lot in the story, too, I liked that we got to see him really step into adulthood. He really cared for Tasha, and it broke my heart when she pushed him away!!
Tasha was a strong-willed heroine, she stood up for herself and didn't let anyone walk all over her despite many attempts to do so. I liked that she was strong and made her own decisions, not just being what someone else needed her to be. I admit I didn't feel as connected to her as I like to with a main character, and I did feel like she overreacted to situations at times. But she had morals and standards that she believed strongly in, and I respected that she stood by them. Tasha really made some changes towards the end of the book that I was very happy to see, too. She steps out of her shell and way out of her comfort zone, becoming the new, more mature Tasha, and only then was she really ready to decide on her feelings for Kai.
Overall, this was a sweet story and I enjoyed seeing Tasha and Kai make their journey together! I'm curious to see who will be in the sequel!!
August 12, 2013
For a contemporary book I thoroughouly enjoyed this novel. I usually am not one to read this genre but have found a new appreciation, thanks to u I can't wait to broaden my literary interest to new novels within this genre !!!!
Butterfly porcupine interprets to be more than just a love story but a story about teenagers finding themselves and their relationships with not only other teenagers and young adults like themselves but with their family as well. I especially loved the newly reformed relationship of mother and son near to the end.
Although this story appears to be short it reminds me of northanger abbey by Jane Austen in how you have incorporated a lot in a short piece of writing. And unlike some novels I was able to relate more to your story.
I loved how tasha was characteristically different to all the other girls but was humble and open enough to look past different opinions and still be friends with most of them. I love the closeness of her bond with her brother is cause I'm just as close with mine!! Just like the closeness u presented through Kai's and kris's relationship too.
I loved how you developed the love within the story and incorporated different twists so we the reader were able to reflect on different characters in different ways. Ultimately my first reaction to most have been flipped and now I think differently.
This story brought on a whirlwind of emotions but I loved it anyways and am looking forward to reading the next installment !!!!
August 25, 2012
I really enjoyed this book and it was a pleasant surprise. I ended up completing it in only about a day and a half. It was a easy read but keep you reading.
Tasha moves to London with her father to complete her schooling. She goes there and its kind of the odd one out in the beginning. Kai is the popular guy that everyone loves. He tells Tasha father that he will help her meet people and become friends with her. This is where the story begins because as hard and Tasha tries not to want to be friends or like Kai they keep coming back to each other. This book is a love story between the two teens, in each of there points of views. Which really helps to get you to feel who the characters are. It is your typical romance type book though were guy meets girl, guy likes girl, guy loses girl, guy gets girl back. In the book Tasha bothered me at times because she seemed very set on what she wanted on how people should treat her, very hard to get to open up. Kai was a great character because he was very kind and cared for others. But also was not so perfect that he didnt mess up.
I hope that the series continues because I would like to see how the story continues because it ended making me wonder what will happen next.
Tasha moves to London with her father to complete her schooling. She goes there and its kind of the odd one out in the beginning. Kai is the popular guy that everyone loves. He tells Tasha father that he will help her meet people and become friends with her. This is where the story begins because as hard and Tasha tries not to want to be friends or like Kai they keep coming back to each other. This book is a love story between the two teens, in each of there points of views. Which really helps to get you to feel who the characters are. It is your typical romance type book though were guy meets girl, guy likes girl, guy loses girl, guy gets girl back. In the book Tasha bothered me at times because she seemed very set on what she wanted on how people should treat her, very hard to get to open up. Kai was a great character because he was very kind and cared for others. But also was not so perfect that he didnt mess up.
I hope that the series continues because I would like to see how the story continues because it ended making me wonder what will happen next.
July 16, 2012
The author sent me a copy of this book in exchange for a review. I was interested when I read the synopsis but I wasn’t sure about it once I started it because the prologue was a bit slow. I am glad I persevered because I really enjoyed this book and it was a pleasant surprise. I completed it in 2 days.
Butterfly Porcupine is a love story told about two teenagers living in England. It is told from both the male and female characters’ points of view - which I really liked. Kai was my favorite character because seemed like a nice guy and I liked the way he looked after his sister. He wasn’t perfect though, screwing up sometimes and upsetting people (girls) because of it. Tasha came across okay but she seemed moody a lot of the time - I guess that's the point. I liked the way her character improved and she came to life when she got to know Kai better.
I liked the way the story concluded and I look forward to reading more in the series.
I would also like to thank Susan for the opportunity to read and review it.
Butterfly Porcupine is a love story told about two teenagers living in England. It is told from both the male and female characters’ points of view - which I really liked. Kai was my favorite character because seemed like a nice guy and I liked the way he looked after his sister. He wasn’t perfect though, screwing up sometimes and upsetting people (girls) because of it. Tasha came across okay but she seemed moody a lot of the time - I guess that's the point. I liked the way her character improved and she came to life when she got to know Kai better.
I liked the way the story concluded and I look forward to reading more in the series.
I would also like to thank Susan for the opportunity to read and review it.
December 7, 2012
The book started off following Tasha as she got ready for her prom at the end of high school in Trinidad. It talked of them all saying goodbye and laid the groundwork of the book and the plot well. Tasha had decided to come to England to continue her education under her father's roof and was saying goodbye to her mother, friends and brother to do so. I was intrigued right away, although I had one small moment of confusion when the dresses were talked about in terms of 1920's and 1950's and I had to try and work out when the book was set. The date's made me think this might be a historical fiction book but it wasn't, as I found out when the usual technology was mentioned.
I really liked Tasha and her prickly personality as well as Kai and his extroverted nature. The two were wonderful opposites and as we all know opposites attract.
On top of that I loved the way the estate they lived in worked. Aintree Court, being a closed off area where every neighbour is meant to look out for every other neighbour was the perfect example of good intentions not going quite right. I loved all the little quirks this brought to people's behaviour and expectations and the way the upper middle class area looked down on anyone not part of their special 'club'.
I did have a few niggles with the book, however. Mostly, the ages of the children. Half the kids were doing AS levels, including Tasha but all of them were 17 before they started and had 18th birthday parties throughout the year and following summer holidays. It confused me at first because that's a year too old. English children are normally 16 and have 17th birthdays in their first year doing A-levels. This confusions continued with the kids in the year above, all of them were 18 before they even started their second year. At that point English kids go off to University, even if they only turn 18 in the summer holidays before hand. It just kept me confused a lot of the time, trying to work out who was in what year. I was surprised when Kai went to high school with the others for example,. He'd turned 18 before the book started so I expected him to be off at Uni and the only birthdays that were mentioned all seemed to happen in the summer holiday too.
My final niggle is actually the title. While it's meant to describe the personality of Tasha, I didn't get that until the last few pages and didn't feel it entirely added to the sense of the book. It's a YA romance book that I think would be served better by having a gender neutral title.
The book was still good and the romance was very sweet but I got a little put off by the lack of research. I still think I'd check out the sequel, however, now that I know the author had everyone a year older for where they are meant to be.
I really liked Tasha and her prickly personality as well as Kai and his extroverted nature. The two were wonderful opposites and as we all know opposites attract.
On top of that I loved the way the estate they lived in worked. Aintree Court, being a closed off area where every neighbour is meant to look out for every other neighbour was the perfect example of good intentions not going quite right. I loved all the little quirks this brought to people's behaviour and expectations and the way the upper middle class area looked down on anyone not part of their special 'club'.
I did have a few niggles with the book, however. Mostly, the ages of the children. Half the kids were doing AS levels, including Tasha but all of them were 17 before they started and had 18th birthday parties throughout the year and following summer holidays. It confused me at first because that's a year too old. English children are normally 16 and have 17th birthdays in their first year doing A-levels. This confusions continued with the kids in the year above, all of them were 18 before they even started their second year. At that point English kids go off to University, even if they only turn 18 in the summer holidays before hand. It just kept me confused a lot of the time, trying to work out who was in what year. I was surprised when Kai went to high school with the others for example,. He'd turned 18 before the book started so I expected him to be off at Uni and the only birthdays that were mentioned all seemed to happen in the summer holiday too.
My final niggle is actually the title. While it's meant to describe the personality of Tasha, I didn't get that until the last few pages and didn't feel it entirely added to the sense of the book. It's a YA romance book that I think would be served better by having a gender neutral title.
The book was still good and the romance was very sweet but I got a little put off by the lack of research. I still think I'd check out the sequel, however, now that I know the author had everyone a year older for where they are meant to be.
August 13, 2012
Thank you Susan Francis for the copy. It was truly a pleasure to read. Now for the review.
After going through the synopsis I thought to myself, "Here is another Young Adult romance, with the typical setting - popular, untouchable guy. Mediocre, down to earth girl. Guy somehow falls for her. Girl can't believe her luck. And they live happily ever after." But somehow I still wanted to read it so I signed up for the review. And I could not have been more happier to do so.
The story surpasses the image created by the synopsis. It is so much more than the regular YA romances. The characters are described so well, you feel you know them personally. There is no stereo-typing of popular people, social lepers etc as is evident in many novels that I have read in this genre.
In the prologue you meet Natasha Wood aka Tasha. You realize that she is a girl with issues from the word go. She is leaving her home to come back to London to stay with her dad and step mom. Then you meet Kai. The thing I liked about the character descriptions was that none of the characters were stereo-typed. It felt a lot more real. Everybody had different aspects of personality and were not set in stone, like people actually are. The jocks were not always stupid and crass. The ex-girlfriend was not always bitchy (since she admits to Tasha looking beautiful in "the picture").
I know this sounds weird, but I loved the characters because all of them had their flaws. That's how it is in real life. You make mistakes. Nobody is perfect. And I commend Susan portraying that instead of following the stereo-type.
Another thing I loved was the ease with which the view was switched. Most of the multiple narrative books that I have read, end up being confusing and chaotic. But not this one. The switch between Tasha and Kai's point of view was smooth and not once did I have to go back to see whose point of view was I reading. Kudos to that.
The conversations and fights seemed so real, I could actually picture having them with my friends and boy friend.
I deducted one star simply for the predictability. After the last fight, it was kind of obvious where things were going.
All in all, a must read for teen romance lovers. This one is really different from the regular stuff and I mean it in a really good way!!
After going through the synopsis I thought to myself, "Here is another Young Adult romance, with the typical setting - popular, untouchable guy. Mediocre, down to earth girl. Guy somehow falls for her. Girl can't believe her luck. And they live happily ever after." But somehow I still wanted to read it so I signed up for the review. And I could not have been more happier to do so.
The story surpasses the image created by the synopsis. It is so much more than the regular YA romances. The characters are described so well, you feel you know them personally. There is no stereo-typing of popular people, social lepers etc as is evident in many novels that I have read in this genre.
In the prologue you meet Natasha Wood aka Tasha. You realize that she is a girl with issues from the word go. She is leaving her home to come back to London to stay with her dad and step mom. Then you meet Kai. The thing I liked about the character descriptions was that none of the characters were stereo-typed. It felt a lot more real. Everybody had different aspects of personality and were not set in stone, like people actually are. The jocks were not always stupid and crass. The ex-girlfriend was not always bitchy (since she admits to Tasha looking beautiful in "the picture").
I know this sounds weird, but I loved the characters because all of them had their flaws. That's how it is in real life. You make mistakes. Nobody is perfect. And I commend Susan portraying that instead of following the stereo-type.
Another thing I loved was the ease with which the view was switched. Most of the multiple narrative books that I have read, end up being confusing and chaotic. But not this one. The switch between Tasha and Kai's point of view was smooth and not once did I have to go back to see whose point of view was I reading. Kudos to that.
The conversations and fights seemed so real, I could actually picture having them with my friends and boy friend.
I deducted one star simply for the predictability. After the last fight, it was kind of obvious where things were going.
All in all, a must read for teen romance lovers. This one is really different from the regular stuff and I mean it in a really good way!!
August 5, 2012
Typical.
I wasn't really sure what to expect when I decided to read this book but I sure was not expecting to find such a typical and anti-climactic story. I'm sorry but Butterfly Porcupine didn't really offer anything that isn't already out there.
First off, the writing style of the author was one of the factors that made the novel feel off for me. It was rigidly narrative and it made the pace too swift and too hasty. Instead of presenting the dialogues, they were just mentioned. I don't know but I'm not used to reading dialogues like this: He said that...Then I replied...And then he told me...
Regarding the characters, I believe that they'd pass. I like them enough to continue reading the story. I like most of their interactions and how they were together as a couple. My problem was that, the major conflict in the story was too shallow and too petty. It wasn't a big deal to be made a fuss over. It would have been better if the author found something much more intense and significant than just those conflicts she presented.
Nonetheless, I didn't give up on it. I was interested to see them through so I guess that's one point for this book.
A copy was provided by the author to be read and reviewed. Thank you for the opportunity.
I wasn't really sure what to expect when I decided to read this book but I sure was not expecting to find such a typical and anti-climactic story. I'm sorry but Butterfly Porcupine didn't really offer anything that isn't already out there.
The plot's your usual polar opposites ending up together. Kai is a resident of Aintree, in a relationship, outgoing and social and loves photography. I found him kind and sweet but he has a problem with not facing the conflicts and problems that he has gotten himself into head on. On the other hand, we have Tasha. She moves back from Trinidad to London, living with her estranged father and his new family at Aintree right after high school graduation in order to pursue her education. She's your shy, introverted girl who likes to maintain her privacy and would like to keep a low profile. The two of them meets and find themselves attracted to the other. But family matters and issues with betrayal and character differences would try to keep Kai and Tasha apart.
First off, the writing style of the author was one of the factors that made the novel feel off for me. It was rigidly narrative and it made the pace too swift and too hasty. Instead of presenting the dialogues, they were just mentioned. I don't know but I'm not used to reading dialogues like this: He said that...Then I replied...And then he told me...
Regarding the characters, I believe that they'd pass. I like them enough to continue reading the story. I like most of their interactions and how they were together as a couple. My problem was that, the major conflict in the story was too shallow and too petty. It wasn't a big deal to be made a fuss over. It would have been better if the author found something much more intense and significant than just those conflicts she presented.
Nonetheless, I didn't give up on it. I was interested to see them through so I guess that's one point for this book.
A copy was provided by the author to be read and reviewed. Thank you for the opportunity.
October 18, 2012
The title of this book is such a great description of this beautiful story; of a guy chasing a girl who comes across as being prickly on the outside!
Without giving any spoilers and hoping that readers would have read the blurb, this is my review.
I have just finished reading this book in 24hr and i was hooked from the first pages. The story of Kai and Tasha is beautifully written. It a brilliant description from both protagonists and with such emotion that i got choked up at parts and had little butterflies at others.
It follows the journey of these two people and their world of being a teen. From broken families with both there parents separated and living miles apart, it's a believable account of the emotions and feelings that are felt from one being put in this situation.
It touches on how a self consious, resentful and hard exterior teen would feel and the fear of being hurt. Can love be let in and trust be built?
With Kai coming across as experienced and player with the girls to Tasha who is shy and quiet and guarded, the story tells of their journey of experiences and feelings and relationships that are formed.
The book is well thought out and is a great easy read for teens and Adults alike.
I loved Susans writing style and it was just the right amount of repeated info when going from Kai to Tasha's POV at the start of their account. I could not put the book down, the words flowed effortlessly and described everything well.
Susan has another book following on from this series called 'Two versions of the same song', which is a story about other characters from this first book, which looks just as promising : )
Without giving any spoilers and hoping that readers would have read the blurb, this is my review.
I have just finished reading this book in 24hr and i was hooked from the first pages. The story of Kai and Tasha is beautifully written. It a brilliant description from both protagonists and with such emotion that i got choked up at parts and had little butterflies at others.
It follows the journey of these two people and their world of being a teen. From broken families with both there parents separated and living miles apart, it's a believable account of the emotions and feelings that are felt from one being put in this situation.
It touches on how a self consious, resentful and hard exterior teen would feel and the fear of being hurt. Can love be let in and trust be built?
With Kai coming across as experienced and player with the girls to Tasha who is shy and quiet and guarded, the story tells of their journey of experiences and feelings and relationships that are formed.
The book is well thought out and is a great easy read for teens and Adults alike.
I loved Susans writing style and it was just the right amount of repeated info when going from Kai to Tasha's POV at the start of their account. I could not put the book down, the words flowed effortlessly and described everything well.
Susan has another book following on from this series called 'Two versions of the same song', which is a story about other characters from this first book, which looks just as promising : )
September 15, 2012
There were many things about 'Butterfly Porcupine' that captured my interest right away. First off, the characters are well defined and not perfect, which makes them relateable. Tasha, the female protaginist, comes off slightly agressive at times, but other times soft and empathetic. Because the book is written from both perspectives (the other part of the book I LOVED!), you really get a sense that you understand 'why' the characters are acting the way they are. For example, we feel the struggles with Tasha trying to adapt to being relocated to London, and accepting her Dad's new wife, whom she feels rejected by. In addition she is very private and hates the attention she is getting from being 'the new girl in town'. Especially in a community like Ainslee where everyone knows everyone else's business! Kai, the stories male protaginist, in contrast, has lived in Ainslee for years. The popular guy, who's friends with everybody. He has his own issues to deal with though we soon learn. Including being a good brother after his mother left the family to move to Australia. As she explores this we begin to see another side of him, separate from the 'cool kid'. You feel for him. This story is so much more than a mediocre coming of age story, and is anything but 'typical'! It has depth, emotion, a great story line and a well written dialogue. A quick read and highly recommended. I look forward to Susan's next installment!
August 12, 2012
I would give this book a solid 3.5 - 4.0 stars.
It's the story of Tasha, a 17 year old girl who was born in London, moved to Trinidad, then, moved back to London to live with her dad, his new wife, and her half-brother. It's also the story of Kai, who lives with his dad and sister in an exclusive London neighborhood next to Tasha and her family. Kai sees something in Tasha, but Tasha's prickly personality keeps pushing him away. Tasha likes Kai as well, but she doesn't know quite how to handle her feelings.
First off, it should be noted that the narration on this book is more formal than most I've read. At first, that was hard to get used to, but eventually it seemed to work. Additionally, the narration switches back and forth between Tasha and Kai. The reader gets the same scenes in both perspectives. I liked that a lot, but I know some will not. Finally, there is some slang dropped in, but my e-reader dictionary explained most of it well enough. It's worth a note, that there is some sexuality, but none of it is expressed explicitly.
All in all, this was a sweet coming of age story for the two main characters. It's about first love, learning to communicate, and letting go of preconceived notions of people. I would recommend it for mid to late teens and anyone else who looking for a sweet love story.
It's the story of Tasha, a 17 year old girl who was born in London, moved to Trinidad, then, moved back to London to live with her dad, his new wife, and her half-brother. It's also the story of Kai, who lives with his dad and sister in an exclusive London neighborhood next to Tasha and her family. Kai sees something in Tasha, but Tasha's prickly personality keeps pushing him away. Tasha likes Kai as well, but she doesn't know quite how to handle her feelings.
First off, it should be noted that the narration on this book is more formal than most I've read. At first, that was hard to get used to, but eventually it seemed to work. Additionally, the narration switches back and forth between Tasha and Kai. The reader gets the same scenes in both perspectives. I liked that a lot, but I know some will not. Finally, there is some slang dropped in, but my e-reader dictionary explained most of it well enough. It's worth a note, that there is some sexuality, but none of it is expressed explicitly.
All in all, this was a sweet coming of age story for the two main characters. It's about first love, learning to communicate, and letting go of preconceived notions of people. I would recommend it for mid to late teens and anyone else who looking for a sweet love story.
August 5, 2012
I received this from the author in an exchange for a review, and I would like to thank Ms. Francis for that.
That being said, I didn't really know what to expect from this book. As it turns out, it's a wonderful story about a girl and boy who are growing up: Tasha and Kai.
Tasha is a girl who just moved to London from Trinidad, where she lived with her mother. While in London, she has to deal with her father's new wife, who doesn't really want her there. Tasha also has to deal with life in Aintree, the gated community her father lives in.
Kai is a boy who has lived in that gated community for several years with his father and sister. He has his own struggles to live with, including a mother who moved to Australia and his own guilt over a photo competition.
This is the story of the two growing up and growing together, even though they do have their rough patches.
The characterization is very good. Each character has his/her own voice and is quite distinct from the others. Though not much happens, I was drawn to keep reading in such a manner as to finish the book in a little over a day.
If action-packed books are your thing, this may not be for you, but you should still give it a read anyway. It's worth the time.
That being said, I didn't really know what to expect from this book. As it turns out, it's a wonderful story about a girl and boy who are growing up: Tasha and Kai.
Tasha is a girl who just moved to London from Trinidad, where she lived with her mother. While in London, she has to deal with her father's new wife, who doesn't really want her there. Tasha also has to deal with life in Aintree, the gated community her father lives in.
Kai is a boy who has lived in that gated community for several years with his father and sister. He has his own struggles to live with, including a mother who moved to Australia and his own guilt over a photo competition.
This is the story of the two growing up and growing together, even though they do have their rough patches.
The characterization is very good. Each character has his/her own voice and is quite distinct from the others. Though not much happens, I was drawn to keep reading in such a manner as to finish the book in a little over a day.
If action-packed books are your thing, this may not be for you, but you should still give it a read anyway. It's worth the time.
August 1, 2013
This is a lovely story about two teenagers finding their places in the world. Natasha (Tasha) Wood moves from Trinidad, leaving her mother behind, to live with her father and his wife in Aintree, a planned community outside of London. (I think that geography is right.) The author uses this setting to show many different issues that teenagers face as they grow up and learn to make their own decisions.
The two main characters Tasha and Kai are quite likable, Tasha being my favorite. This is a thoughtful and intelligent young adult romance that builds very nicely through to the end. I found it quite refreshing.
The brilliance in the story is in the way that the title, and the quotes that preface Parts One and Two, pull the story together.
A little bit more about the book on eating magic:
http://heidigwrites.blogspot.com/2013...
The two main characters Tasha and Kai are quite likable, Tasha being my favorite. This is a thoughtful and intelligent young adult romance that builds very nicely through to the end. I found it quite refreshing.
The brilliance in the story is in the way that the title, and the quotes that preface Parts One and Two, pull the story together.
A little bit more about the book on eating magic:
http://heidigwrites.blogspot.com/2013...
March 4, 2013
I loved Butterfly Porcupine from the first page to the last. I fell in love with Tasha and Kai, the main characters in the book.
Even though I am older, I still enjoyed this YA coming of age story. It was full of hope and positive messages. I could even relate to some of the topics that arose in the story.
Miss Francis is an amazingly talented writer and I loved her easy dialog and clear/crisp writing style. This book really touched me because I love stories with heart and this one was most definitely filled with it. There was just something so pure and fresh about how this story was told. I got completely engrossed in this novel and found myself thinking about it throughout the day. That is when I know something is really good. It stays with me long after I have put the book down.
Even though I am older, I still enjoyed this YA coming of age story. It was full of hope and positive messages. I could even relate to some of the topics that arose in the story.
Miss Francis is an amazingly talented writer and I loved her easy dialog and clear/crisp writing style. This book really touched me because I love stories with heart and this one was most definitely filled with it. There was just something so pure and fresh about how this story was told. I got completely engrossed in this novel and found myself thinking about it throughout the day. That is when I know something is really good. It stays with me long after I have put the book down.
August 7, 2012
I have to say that I was really surprised going into this book, at first it was slow but when it picked up it really picked up... I mean I fell IN LOVE with the characters... Kai and Tasha were just so adorable... i mean i have to admit i actually cried towards the end of the book, not because it was sad but because i got sooooo attached to the tash and kai!! oh man ... i just think that you really have to give this book a try!!
October 21, 2012
I started this book right before going to bed and couldn't put it down until I was done. It pulled a lot of emotion out of me. I cried, laughed, and of course wanted to punch someone because I was mad. It was beautifully written. I now understand the title. It fits perfectly! The way the butterfly and porcupine were described brought on a new meaning of these two animals to me.
I would recommend this to any of my friends. It was sweet, emotional and beautiful.
I would recommend this to any of my friends. It was sweet, emotional and beautiful.
October 24, 2012
This book was a sweet tale about a boy perusing a girl against all odds. The title is very unique and liked how the author tied it into the story. It was enjoyable but not overly exciting. At times I found that it dragged a bit and was able to put it down for quite some time. When I picked it back up, it was a little more interesting.
October 25, 2012
This book was very enjoyable. It was well written and the characters were well developed. I like the switched POV'S and the love story was sweet and believable. Good job Susan Francis!
Read
October 24, 2012This book is sooooooo good,i spent all night reading it. i can't wait to the next one comes out.Omg it was so good and i like how the author put herself in the main character's place.
Want to Read
November 2, 2012I loved reading this Novel. I was not able to put it down, therefore read it in 1 day. I loved this book. I look to read the rest of this series.
February 7, 2013
I love this book. The storyline is fantastic and I love the way that the charcters are presented.
December 15, 2012
Butterfly Porcupine is the first book in the Tales from Aintree Court and a YA Romance written by Susan Francis. I read this as a R2R with We ♥ YA Books! As always, a special thank you to the mods and author for allowing me to participate.
The Review:
This story was broken up into two parts. It started out slow and in my opinion, unfocused but by the second half, it became interesting enough to hold me through the pages and I soon started to enjoy it, once it picked up pace. I loved the setting and the fact it takes place in London. The idea of a communal neighborhood was unique to me. I’m sure places similar to that exists but its unfamiliar to me so I found it interesting even though, like some of the characters, living in a place like that, where everyone knew your business and could see into your backyard, would quickly drive me nuts! I liked the characters well enough but did think Tasha’s reaction to Kai’s mistake was a bit over the top. The romance was a typical “opposites attract” scenario but it was sweet and engaging. However the conflict was just too superficial for there to be any real drama.
I hate giving negative reviews especially when I see so much potential in a book. This book was no exception. I really thought the story was agreeable and had a nice YA romance. My problem with the book was the writing style. I admire the motto of “Show, don’t tell…” This book was all “tell” and felt like it was a narrative of itself, like I was reading an overview of the story. It was told in a cliff notes type writing style. There was no description or detail in the scenes and the dialogue was condensed in most places so we were getting a “past tense” feel. I kept getting lost in what was supposed to be happening with what had already happened.
Also, it ended abruptly. I wish the prologue hadn’t even been included because it left me scratching me head. I read the blurb on the second book and it seems that it’s not a continuation of this story so the ending makes even less sense.
The Wrap Up:
All in all, the book and the series has potential but I probably won’t go on to book two for the simple fact I’m not a big fan of the writing style and the ending just didn’t satisfy.
The Review:
This story was broken up into two parts. It started out slow and in my opinion, unfocused but by the second half, it became interesting enough to hold me through the pages and I soon started to enjoy it, once it picked up pace. I loved the setting and the fact it takes place in London. The idea of a communal neighborhood was unique to me. I’m sure places similar to that exists but its unfamiliar to me so I found it interesting even though, like some of the characters, living in a place like that, where everyone knew your business and could see into your backyard, would quickly drive me nuts! I liked the characters well enough but did think Tasha’s reaction to Kai’s mistake was a bit over the top. The romance was a typical “opposites attract” scenario but it was sweet and engaging. However the conflict was just too superficial for there to be any real drama.
I hate giving negative reviews especially when I see so much potential in a book. This book was no exception. I really thought the story was agreeable and had a nice YA romance. My problem with the book was the writing style. I admire the motto of “Show, don’t tell…” This book was all “tell” and felt like it was a narrative of itself, like I was reading an overview of the story. It was told in a cliff notes type writing style. There was no description or detail in the scenes and the dialogue was condensed in most places so we were getting a “past tense” feel. I kept getting lost in what was supposed to be happening with what had already happened.
Also, it ended abruptly. I wish the prologue hadn’t even been included because it left me scratching me head. I read the blurb on the second book and it seems that it’s not a continuation of this story so the ending makes even less sense.
The Wrap Up:
All in all, the book and the series has potential but I probably won’t go on to book two for the simple fact I’m not a big fan of the writing style and the ending just didn’t satisfy.
January 6, 2021
English:
I find writing this review a bit tricky since I have mixed feelings about the book. Overall I preferred the second part of the book than the first.
The first part of the book was very tedious; it spoke of many characters that were not important at the end and I felt very impersonal the way that the dialogues were not said, just told. I also believe that many of the friends in Aintree were not very structured and up to some point spare.
The second part of the book I really enjoyed, I felt that at that point it was when the main characters began to take shape and you could actually identify with them. I also liked that the characters went through everyday things teenagers that normal teenagers go through.
I recommend it for a quick read, it is basic and real, without the exaggerated romanticism that we can find in most books of this genre.
Overall rating: 6.5/10
Español:
Escribir esta reseña me es un poco complicado ya que me surgieron opiniones encontradas del libro. En general me gusto mas la segunda parte que la primera.
La primera parte del libro la sentí muy tediosa, hablaba de muchos personajes que al final no eran importantes y sentí muy impersonal el hecho de que los diálogos estaban dichos, no hablados. Además, creo que muchos de los amigos de Aintree no estaban bien estructurados y hasta cierto punto de sobra.
La segunda parte del libro la disfrute mas, sentí que hasta ese momento es cuando los personajes empezaron a tomar forma y hasta podías llegar a identificarte con ellos. tambien me gusto que los personajes pasaban por cosas cotidianas que normalmente ocurren en la vida de los adolescentes
Yo lo recomendaría para una lectura rápida, esta básico y real, sin los romanticismos exagerados que podemos llegar a encontrar en la mayoría de los libros de este género.
Valoración general: 6.5/10
I find writing this review a bit tricky since I have mixed feelings about the book. Overall I preferred the second part of the book than the first.
The first part of the book was very tedious; it spoke of many characters that were not important at the end and I felt very impersonal the way that the dialogues were not said, just told. I also believe that many of the friends in Aintree were not very structured and up to some point spare.
The second part of the book I really enjoyed, I felt that at that point it was when the main characters began to take shape and you could actually identify with them. I also liked that the characters went through everyday things teenagers that normal teenagers go through.
I recommend it for a quick read, it is basic and real, without the exaggerated romanticism that we can find in most books of this genre.
Overall rating: 6.5/10
Español:
Escribir esta reseña me es un poco complicado ya que me surgieron opiniones encontradas del libro. En general me gusto mas la segunda parte que la primera.
La primera parte del libro la sentí muy tediosa, hablaba de muchos personajes que al final no eran importantes y sentí muy impersonal el hecho de que los diálogos estaban dichos, no hablados. Además, creo que muchos de los amigos de Aintree no estaban bien estructurados y hasta cierto punto de sobra.
La segunda parte del libro la disfrute mas, sentí que hasta ese momento es cuando los personajes empezaron a tomar forma y hasta podías llegar a identificarte con ellos. tambien me gusto que los personajes pasaban por cosas cotidianas que normalmente ocurren en la vida de los adolescentes
Yo lo recomendaría para una lectura rápida, esta básico y real, sin los romanticismos exagerados que podemos llegar a encontrar en la mayoría de los libros de este género.
Valoración general: 6.5/10
October 24, 2012
Thank you, Susan Francis, for sharing this book with me. :)
I have mixed emotions about this book. So writing a review is a little bit complicated for me. I'm not into the I hate it side. But I'm not in the I love it side either. So, yeah.
Hmmm.. So I'm gonna start with the things that made me not so like it.
This book has a lot of characters. It introduces a lot of characters that I'm not sure who are important and not important anymore. Kind of spoke of characters which doesn't have any weight but just added some confusion to the story. The plot is also quite typical and doesn't give you the high note feeling although it is quite interesting. I think it just lacked that BOOM feeling to it. The book is also TOO narrative that sometimes the pacing becomes draggy. There are also times where some scenes need elaboration. And there are also times when some scenes don't need to be that elaborated. I guess I was just looking for that thing which could give me the excited feeling which never came.
But on the other hand, here are the things that made me smile. First, the title. Boy! It was catchy. And every book needs a really catchy title to sell. Then the characters. They pass! I mean, they aren't perfect which made them feel real. They have flaws which made readers connect to them. And they are opposites. I love reading about opposite people falling in love. Another good thing is that this book is an easy read. Light and short and fun. I think every book needs that factor.
So overall, I think this is not such a bad read. :) It's light and easy and would be good as a travel read.
I have mixed emotions about this book. So writing a review is a little bit complicated for me. I'm not into the I hate it side. But I'm not in the I love it side either. So, yeah.
Hmmm.. So I'm gonna start with the things that made me not so like it.
This book has a lot of characters. It introduces a lot of characters that I'm not sure who are important and not important anymore. Kind of spoke of characters which doesn't have any weight but just added some confusion to the story. The plot is also quite typical and doesn't give you the high note feeling although it is quite interesting. I think it just lacked that BOOM feeling to it. The book is also TOO narrative that sometimes the pacing becomes draggy. There are also times where some scenes need elaboration. And there are also times when some scenes don't need to be that elaborated. I guess I was just looking for that thing which could give me the excited feeling which never came.
But on the other hand, here are the things that made me smile. First, the title. Boy! It was catchy. And every book needs a really catchy title to sell. Then the characters. They pass! I mean, they aren't perfect which made them feel real. They have flaws which made readers connect to them. And they are opposites. I love reading about opposite people falling in love. Another good thing is that this book is an easy read. Light and short and fun. I think every book needs that factor.
So overall, I think this is not such a bad read. :) It's light and easy and would be good as a travel read.
August 17, 2012
2.5 Stars
First, I enjoyed the second half of this book much more than the first half. The first half was a bit hard to get through. There was a lot of information dumping and I had a hard time connecting to Tasha. I realize that everyone had a hard time connecting to her and that she is one of those people who are hard to get to know. So I guess as that kind of character she was written pretty well. However, I just found her to be judgmental and annoying much of the time. I enjoyed reading about Kai and his group of friends much more. Luckily this book is written in alternating points of view so every other chapter was about Kai. Like I mentioned the second half of Butterfly Porcupine was much better and I found myself enjoying it at that point.
Also a pet peeve of mine is when an author writes a book and doesn't or rarely uses contractions. That is very distracting for me. I think with a bit more editing this book could have been a bit better.
OK, I'm done complaining now. The overall story was pretty good. It follows a pretty classic romance formula and I enjoy those. I wish I could have given this book a higher rating, but I guess you can't love them all. With all of this being said I may read the next book if it is about some of the other characters that were in this book. Mostly because as I said the second half of this book got much better. I have high hopes that Francis' writing will just get better and better.
First, I enjoyed the second half of this book much more than the first half. The first half was a bit hard to get through. There was a lot of information dumping and I had a hard time connecting to Tasha. I realize that everyone had a hard time connecting to her and that she is one of those people who are hard to get to know. So I guess as that kind of character she was written pretty well. However, I just found her to be judgmental and annoying much of the time. I enjoyed reading about Kai and his group of friends much more. Luckily this book is written in alternating points of view so every other chapter was about Kai. Like I mentioned the second half of Butterfly Porcupine was much better and I found myself enjoying it at that point.
Also a pet peeve of mine is when an author writes a book and doesn't or rarely uses contractions. That is very distracting for me. I think with a bit more editing this book could have been a bit better.
OK, I'm done complaining now. The overall story was pretty good. It follows a pretty classic romance formula and I enjoy those. I wish I could have given this book a higher rating, but I guess you can't love them all. With all of this being said I may read the next book if it is about some of the other characters that were in this book. Mostly because as I said the second half of this book got much better. I have high hopes that Francis' writing will just get better and better.
September 4, 2012
I would call this 3.5 stars. A couple of days after reading it, I am still a little unsure as to exactly how I feel about the style of this book. The story is a typical one: boy falls for new girl in town, boy and girl break up, (Spoiler alert) boy and girl get back together. The main difference is that it takes place in England and the girl has just moved there from the Caribbean. Both come from broken homes and so have issues resulting from that, especially Tasha. The boy, Kai, is misunderstood by many as he is thought to be a "player". They are both drawn to each other almost immediately.
My main issue with this is that the style of the writing is almost diary-like. By this I mean that the writing is somewhat simplistic, which is not necessarily a bad thing. A good example of this is that there were some chapters that ended and I was left wondering if I was missing pages.
I was also left wondering about Tasha's mother who was still back in the Caribbean as well as her relationship with her stepmother. There is definite resolutin with Kai's family, but not with Tasha's.
I read the epilogue several times, trying to determine if it took place before the actual end of the book.
Overall, I did enjoy the book, but I was left puzzled by the writing style.
My main issue with this is that the style of the writing is almost diary-like. By this I mean that the writing is somewhat simplistic, which is not necessarily a bad thing. A good example of this is that there were some chapters that ended and I was left wondering if I was missing pages.
I was also left wondering about Tasha's mother who was still back in the Caribbean as well as her relationship with her stepmother. There is definite resolutin with Kai's family, but not with Tasha's.
I read the epilogue several times, trying to determine if it took place before the actual end of the book.
Overall, I did enjoy the book, but I was left puzzled by the writing style.
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