First Kiss (Heavy Influence, #1) by Ann Marie Frohoff

Aug 19, 2013 Melissa rated it did not like it

Shelves: 2013-reads

A story about first love. An up and coming rock star falling in love with the girl next door. Sounded like a setup for a great story. It could have been a great story. ... but it wasn't. Not at all. I don't throw out one star ratings lightly. I hate to give them out. But I can't deny this one. I did not like this book one bit.

I am sure that there is some demographic out there who might appreciate this story. Somewhere. I am obviously not it. I'm not sure I would have enjoyed this story as a you A story about first love. An up and coming rock star falling in love with the girl next door. Sounded like a setup for a great story. It could have been a great story. ... but it wasn't. Not at all. I don't throw out one star ratings lightly. I hate to give them out. But I can't deny this one. I did not like this book one bit.

I am sure that there is some demographic out there who might appreciate this story. Somewhere. I am obviously not it. I'm not sure I would have enjoyed this story as a young adult, but as a mother of young adults I was absolutely appalled at what I read. Appalled. This is the story of a 14 year old girl who falls in love with her neighbor. Her 17 year old neighbor. It is only three years difference, but there is a HUGE difference in the age and experience of a fourteen year-old and an eighteen year-old, especially these two. Jake is living the lifestyle of a stereotypical rock star. He drinks. He uses drugs. He has slept around. Aly, on the other hand is completely naive about EVERYTHING. Kudos for Jake in this story for not pushing Aly to do anything she wasn't ready for. But Aly seemed to think she was ready for the whole show. But she wasn't. Not at all. Reading her commentary in this story was like actually reading the diary of a naive 14 year-old girl who was trying her best to seem mature and able to do whatever the holy heck she wanted to do ... to heck with any actual consequences for her actions. She yelled at everyone in this story when she didn't get her way ... her parents, her best friends, Jake ... everyone. She reeked of immaturity and selfishness. She constantly sneaks out of her house to spend the night with Jake. Nothing really happens, but SO WHAT? She is constantly doing things behind her parents's back. Why? Because she darn well feels like it, that's why! And if anyone bothers to find that to be a problem? Well, suddenly it is World War 3, and she has a major meltdown, blaming everyone else but herself for her rotten behavior. I could go on and on. And on and on. But let's move on ...

What else I hated:

The spelling and grammar in this was ATROCIOUS. Absolutely atrocious. I hope that the author can make enough money on this one to hire an editor to read through this book. I can normally overlook a mistyped word here or there, but this book just went over the top. Your indicates possession. You're is used in place of you are. It is a music "chord", not cord. When you use an apostrophe with objects it indicates ownership. If you want to indicate more than one thing, all you need is an extra 's.' I'll stop there.

The pacing of this book was awful as well. A scene would be taking place, and then suddenly we were thrown into a whole new scene without any indication that the previous scene had ended.

It didn't seem clear that the author actually sat to read this book after she finished writing because several scenes were retold as if we hadn't already heard that information several pages earlier.

The characters were awful. Just awful. They treated each other horribly half the time, and they treated people who were different in some way even worse. What was up with all the fat comments to their "friend" at the beginning of the book? Was I supposed to like these people?

There is no great lesson to learn from this story. The kids in the story make rotten mistakes. They suffer for them. But do they learn anything? No. All they learn is that they really, really hate their parents for interfering in their perfect lives. Why should I care to read a story with that sort of message?

This is supposedly a story about a first love. A first kiss. Just a side note about that ... this "first kiss" that is played up in the title is not actually the first kiss. They had been kissing quite a while before this "first kiss" happens. So why was the "first kiss" made out to be the big deal that it was in the book? So confusing. But for a story about first love, it really missed the mark. Let me share something with any of you who might be thinking that this story is an example of the kind of epic love that you want in your life. When you are truly in love with the right person, they will cause you to be the best person that you can be. You will be better simply by being with them, and they will be better as well. That is love. These two who love each other so much encourage each other to break rules, skip responsibilities, fight viciously with those they love, use drugs, fail at school ... and on and on and on. When events make it so that they cannot be together they (and mostly Jake) decide to see other people. In Jake's case he is REALLY seeing them in all their glory. And yet he is quick to say that he loves Aly. REALLY? Really? You love her so much that you grab the nearest girl to sleep with while you're waiting for things to get more convenient for a relationship with Aly? Yuck! That is not ideal love. That is infatuation and obsession. Juvenile obsession.

And finally (because I have to stop somewhere) the supposed chemistry between the two characters is not obvious at all in this story. Supposedly Jake falls for Aly because she is so real compared to the girls he normally hangs around. She is more natural. He can be himself around her and talk freely to her. Supposedly. But what I am actually reading on the page is two people infatuated with one another who spend half their time freaking out about the other person. Aly spends all her time wondering if he is getting ready to dump her, and she forms all these VERY UNHEALTHY plans to keep him interested. Their conversations don't flow nicely at all. It seems like a train wreck in process.

This book is entirely TOO LONG. So much could have been eliminated to make a cleaner, crisper book. So many scenes did nothing to push the plot, and it was never totally clear what any plot was leading toward. Scenes for the sake of scenes made this read, like I said, like a fantasy diary instead of an actual story.

That's all I can say. I will not be continuing on in this series. I cannot recommend it. I did not like it at all. Sigh. ...more

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Oct 15, 2012 Amy rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: beta, e-books, own, arc, signed, tough-issues, favorite, print

Oh yeah. I got the goods. Be jealous. So very jealous. Because this is the shizz.

"While books have music as the theme, Frohoff takes it the next level by having a soundtrack with original music tied directly to the main character. Bringing the characters to life in a unique way. The music is the soul of the book.

There's so many situations in this novel that if taken to the next level.. it would be unbelievably horrific. I am not sure readers get the severity of how dire these situations are. ...more

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Mar 22, 2013 Danielle (Bookwhoreblog) Perez rated it it was amazing

Jake is an up and coming rock star and his dreams of making it into the big music scene are starting to come true. Aly, Jake's neighbor is young and innocent and completely hard for him to resist. Can Jake fight his urge to be near her to be the good guy? Or will Jake's heart fall victim to Aly's innocents, threatening to break both of their hearts?

When I first started reading this story my only concern was the age of the characters. I tend to prefer older characters I can relate to and at the r Jake is an up and coming rock star and his dreams of making it into the big music scene are starting to come true. Aly, Jake's neighbor is young and innocent and completely hard for him to resist. Can Jake fight his urge to be near her to be the good guy? Or will Jake's heart fall victim to Aly's innocents, threatening to break both of their hearts?

When I first started reading this story my only concern was the age of the characters. I tend to prefer older characters I can relate to and at the ripe old age of 28 I hardly can relate to high school students. I wanted so badly to love First Kiss but the age thing kept holding me slightly back from full on falling in love with it. By the end of the book I was head over heels for the romance and I felt this new age Romeo and Juliet connection to the story. Aly is the younger girl who knows she is in love and Jake is the older boy who is utterly drawn to Aly's innocence. The tale becomes them against the world and I loved it.

I couldn't stop myself from devouring First Kiss in less than two days. First Kiss is an emotional journey of first love and first heartbreak. I found myself balling my eyes out while reading this book, which was a difficult task all in itself.

Now here is the thing I feel like Skid Out is a tale out slightly before it's time literally by a few months. The novella debuted just before this new craze of New Adult broke on the scene and I think if this story was New Adult it would blow stories like Thoughtless, and Beautiful Disaster out of the water. That's right I said it! This novel is currently being marketed as a mature YA, and it is, I recently learned that the series will be in the NA genre by the next book.
So watch out Jamie Mcguire Travis might have some competition from Jake.

Now with all of the above said I recommend this novel to lovers of NA, and a more mature YA. I think the mature YA storyline and the upcoming NA transition makes this the perfect book for fans of the genre. First Kiss is a powerful emotional read that is hard to put down and even harder to forget once the story has ended. I am dying for the next book to come out and the release of First Kiss has just happened. Bottom line First Kiss is the type of book I search for, an amazing read that I lose myself in; a romance that I can't forget and a tale that leaves me begging for more.
...more

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Mar 22, 2012 Tracey (Life and Literature) rated it really liked it

Shelves: 4-stars

After reading the delicious little tease that is SKID OUT, I can't wait for this one!!

REVIEW: To say I was excited for the release of First Kiss would be somewhat of an understatement. I read Skid Out and was immediately hooked, so when the super awesome Ann Marie Frohoff contacted me and asked me to review First Kiss I was in my happy place.

Jake and Alyssa have been friends and neighbours for a long time. But somewhere along the way they both went in different directions. Jake focusing on his b After reading the delicious little tease that is SKID OUT, I can't wait for this one!!

REVIEW: To say I was excited for the release of First Kiss would be somewhat of an understatement. I read Skid Out and was immediately hooked, so when the super awesome Ann Marie Frohoff contacted me and asked me to review First Kiss I was in my happy place.

Jake and Alyssa have been friends and neighbours for a long time. But somewhere along the way they both went in different directions. Jake focusing on his band and Alyssa hanging out with her friends and being part of the volleyball team. But at the start of Summer their paths cross again and there is an undeniable connection between the two of them.

Being only fourteen Alyssa's parents would not be happy with her dating the much older Jake. Those few years in age difference don't mean much when you are older but in your teenage years it's quite a difference in maturity levels. Alyssa has little to no experience in the dating cycle where as Jake at eighteen has much more experience. He's been living the up and coming rockstars lifestyle. Girls, drinking, parties, drugs. They've all played a part in Jake's life.

Most of the book is told from Alyssa and Jake's point of view which was just perfect for this book. I think had we have not gotten a look into what both of our main characters were thinking we would have missed out on really understanding them and their attraction to each other. I have to admit that there were times when the difference in their ages and level of experience made me really stop and think. I questioned not Alyssa's attraction but where Jake's attraction was coming from. But being able to get inside his head really laid that to rest for me.

Living the life that Jake has he realises that he's never really been able to be himself. Pressure from his mum and bandmates to always do what is expected. That is until Alyssa. For the first time he feels what it's like to love, and he can't get enough of it. He wants to be with Alyssa all the time, but life on the road gets in the way of that. But that only increases Jake's need for Alyssa.

This was quite a bit longer than most Young Adult reads but it really delved into the teenage life, pressures, issues that they face and growing up along the way. While there were times that Alyssa's immaturity bugged me, I think she was portrayed perfectly as the fourteen year old girl that she is. Didn't we all struggle with balancing friendships, falling in love, our first boyfriend, parents... But Alyssa also has the added stress of her boyfriend being away touring in a band. And then throw in a very jealous ex!!! But by the end of the book I thought the she had really grown up a lot.

And while Jake has lived the fast life, he is different with Alyssa. He understands that she's young, but he never pressures her to go too far. He is more than happy just spending time with her and holding her and kissing her. And that right there showed me the kind of person that he was. I loved him from the moment I first met him in Skid Out and I loved him just as much in First Kiss.

Another original concept of First Kiss is the option to purchase the soundtrack which I've had the pleasure of listening too. While I'm quite particular in my musical tastes I found that I really enjoyed the catchy tunes.

And that ending!!! Not what I was expecting at all!! !! I'm anything but patient when it comes to waiting for the sequels of books that I've enjoyed. And First Kiss was definitely a book that I loved. There was no question as to how much I enjoyed Ann Marie Frohoff's writing style and the way in which she portrayed the characters. Being such a huge lover of music and having it woven so perfectly throughout the book was perfect!! Bring on book two, Broken Notes!! ...more

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Nov 14, 2014 Annie Brewer rated it really liked it

Shelves: bad-boy, book-boyfriend, contemp-romance, irresistable-hot-guys, absolutely-amazingly-awesome, angst, male-point-of-view, new-adult, favorite-series, favorite-hotties

Damn, this book was intense and so freakin' angsty. I enjoyed it, for the most part. But I felt so bad for Jake. Damn, life was not so kind to him. I loved the relationship between Aly and him, when they were together. Everything and everyone kept tearing them apart. So frustrating! I'm eager to see where Frohoff takes these two in Broken Notes. 4.25 stars! ...more

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Dec 31, 2012 Tee loves Kyle Jacobson rated it it was amazing

First Kiss is an amazing story and a MUST READ! Love rocker bad boys and first loves then this is the book for you! Ann does a great job putting this amazing story together and I can't wait to post my real review!

Okay so it is finally time yes people it is June 01, 2013 and I can review First Kiss! Whoop Whoop I had been holding that in for a very long time because I read this book and it took me a week people to read this book because I had to put it down. Lord knows everyone no matter who you First Kiss is an amazing story and a MUST READ! Love rocker bad boys and first loves then this is the book for you! Ann does a great job putting this amazing story together and I can't wait to post my real review!

Okay so it is finally time yes people it is June 01, 2013 and I can review First Kiss! Whoop Whoop I had been holding that in for a very long time because I read this book and it took me a week people to read this book because I had to put it down. Lord knows everyone no matter who you are remembers their first love and how it felt to hold that person and to see that person and sped time with them.First Kiss is about first loves, rock bands, friendships, and growing up. This book took me a week to read because it was so emotional that at times I could not stop crying. This is one roller coaster of a ride I enjoyed taking.

I am so not giving away anything in this review because this is a must read book you hear me A MUST READ BOOK and if you are like me and read to many spoilers I won't read it right away but this book is so much more and let me tell you it is so worth reading. I will try and sum this book up in a couple sentences for you then I want you to go out and pre-order this book which comes out on June 11, 2013

Jake is the lead in a band and his band is taking off for tour soon. Aly has been his neighbor and friend for forever but one day Jake looks at Aly differently and things start to change for the two of them. But happens when you have your first true love but you have an age difference and jealous people coming at you from every aspect? You fight like hell to keep going to have your first love unravel. But then one of you is going on tour where is the trust and faith in that? Can Jake and Aly survive all this craziness? Will they even get a chance to be first loves? or will their hearts be broken?

Man this is one book that is a beach MUST READ! Ann I love First Kiss and I need book two like yesterday! I need it like I need air to breathe!

~Team Jake and Aly ~ ...more

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Nov 12, 2013 Deborah rated it really liked it

Jake and Ally are next door neighbours and have been their entire lives, he's 17 good looking, in a band that's going places he's used to female attention and is treated with awe at school. Ally is 14 she has her own group of friends and will be staring at Jakes school as a freshman this year. Jakes sees Ally and realises she's grown up, he feels an attraction towards her he doesn't understand, Ally's had a crush on one of her friends Matt for ages but once she sees Jake he's all she can think a ...more

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May 17, 2019 Sharon Mariampillai rated it really liked it

Shelves: books-i-have, e-books, romance, ya, 4-stars, netgalley-finished, 2019-reads, must-read, tbr-finished, alternating-povs

I received a copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

Actual Rating: 3.5

This was an enjoyable read. The plot was great and well-written. I thought it was a sweet romance. I loved the pace of the story. The characters were great as well in the book. I really liked how Jake and Aly's relationship was portrayed. They had great chemistry. Overall, a great read. ...more

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Feb 23, 2013 Mandy (I Read Indie) Anderson rated it it was amazing

At fourteen you are coming into your own, learning new things about yourself, and about to embark on a new journey of your life: high school. Life will either explode for you in different and wonderful ways or it will end up pulling you down if you let it. Aly is bound and determined to have the best summer of her young life. She wants to be with her crush, Matt, as much as possible and hang poolside with her friends. Then enters Jake, her neighbor since, well forever. In one day, Aly’s eyes get At fourteen you are coming into your own, learning new things about yourself, and about to embark on a new journey of your life: high school. Life will either explode for you in different and wonderful ways or it will end up pulling you down if you let it. Aly is bound and determined to have the best summer of her young life. She wants to be with her crush, Matt, as much as possible and hang poolside with her friends. Then enters Jake, her neighbor since, well forever. In one day, Aly’s eyes get opened to the wonderful world of guys and Jake is front and center. Matt becomes a thing of the past and Jake is her future. Feelings Aly has never before experienced are ripping from the inside out to be set free.

Jake is overcome with feelings for a girl he has known his whole life and he couldn’t be happier. Every second not spent practicing or preforming with his band is spent with Aly. And no matter how cliquish it sounds…Aly makes him want to be a better person. But while surrounded in their little bubble they don’t notice the outside forces that are coming at them until it’s almost too late. Relationships will be tested and families torn apart. Sacrifices will be made in order to make things right once again. But in the end one question will have to be answered…was it all worth it?

There was a lot of dialogue between characters and usually I find that a bit annoying. But I think with this book it was necessary to establish that history between the two MC’s and to back up their growing relationship. Also thought the author would jump from one scene to the next without any type of warning and I would be left a little confused for a moment. But I did have an advanced reader copy, so edits were still to be had. And I am fully confident that once it’s released this book will be ready for it’s readers.

Other than that little bit, I adored the story. It took me back to when I was 15 and seeing a guy that my parents forbid me to see when certain things came to light. We dated secretly for a time but slowly drifted apart. Throughout high school we would be off and on and ended up just really good friends. So everything that Jake and Aly went through was spot on for me. Well, besides the fact that my boyfriend was the same age as me and not an up and coming rocker. Hey, I can pretend right? But the author had the feelings and emotions down flat and I thought she did a wonderful job telling the story. It was real and it was believable.

Jake is one of those characters no matter what happens you are going to keep on loving him. No matter who steps in the way, you are going to keep rootin’ for him. No matter what substances get involved, you are going to hope for the best. The minute I read about him in SKID OUT I knew I would always love him no matter what. Does that mean I condone his behavior throughout the book? Absolutely not. There were times I wanted to hate him, due to the way he treated Aly, but I couldn’t. Yes, he could be a total jerk much of the time but he was that embedded in my heart for me to just give up on him.

And lord help me, with an ending like that, there better be a book 2. Seriously Ann, you can’t leave us hangin’ like that. Ah!! It was sweet and it was hopeful and it was a freakin’ cliffhanger!! Here FIRST KISS isn’t even out and I am in need of more. Buckle up folks, this is one book you are going to want to read! ...more

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Nov 07, 2012 Renee rated it it was amazing

Well I am so sad to end this book. I will say BEST BOOK I have READ.When you write a review and think about a character for a day to decide what to write that is when it is EPIC. The blending of love, angst, hate and heart break was perfect. When you say this was a five star book it means something left a great impression on you, the characters spoke, the author had style and communicated the message perfectly. This was the case for me. Even though I gasped and cursed it is a sign that the messa
Well I am so sad to end this book. I will say BEST BOOK I have READ.When you write a review and think about a character for a day to decide what to write that is when it is EPIC. The blending of love, angst, hate and heart break was perfect. When you say this was a five star book it means something left a great impression on you, the characters spoke, the author had style and communicated the message perfectly. This was the case for me. Even though I gasped and cursed it is a sign that the message was there.
What I loved was of course the main characters. You MUST read book 1 it is short and it pissed me off that it was short, but it was just a set-up for this book. I got done last night and I actually sat here thinking all day what to write. This was the best book. I hope you know I dont say that often but I was so touched by it. So Jake and Alyssa live next door to each other and were besties growing up and then things took off for Jake and his band. So they just passed each other and then BAM fate happens and they started to talk again.

Should I tell you who else I loved? Ok I loved Rachel, yeah I know right? She was with Jake in a momentary lapse in judgement at the beginning of the book. Not giving a spoiler here. Anyways she is the girl you love to hate. I did hate her and I tried so hard to think what if I was in her shoes, desperately in love with Jake, helping him and the band for 2 years, and then sex, drama and no relationship. But I loved how the authors style made me sympathize and then totally hate her to the point I wanna stab her with a pencil repeatedly.

Alyssa's sister who is older, yes I was made me dislike her too. The Allison story was great once her reveal came. I was wondering why I just "didn't like" as opposed to I hated her. Kyle was my dude. How he loved his sister and covered for her and let her see Jake, well it makes me wish I had a brother.

I loved the Nicole and Nadine- the dialogue the friendship. A girl needs best friends like that. I think of my girls in Brooklyn and we were/still like that. There were so many memories that came back when I was reading their little gossip fest topics.

Marshall and Bobby were so good.Bobby in the band as well as Mike (grrr growling like a pitbull) and Dumpster aka Dump. All of them had the best supporting roles. Now there was Sienna too. She was Dump's girl and Rachel's bff. Now she was a BFF but there is a big BUT, she was so fair and called Rachel out on things. Dump did too, he was a neanderthal but to Sienna, OMG he loved her.

Aly and Jake were so perfect. I could care less about the age difference. The sneaking around and the drama was great.

Notting (English dude with a really strange name)and Kate were very complex too. Jakes Dad passed away a long time ago. His Mom and his manager "had a thing" but they never made anything big or official. It has to be read and discussed.

The author is golden! She has so many fantastic tunes in the book and they are going to come out too. Squeals if delight! I loved the songs!

I want it to be big. We have to do something to get the word out. I am doing my part for sure. So the last reason is the story of love, health, growing up and redemption. We all fall down and some of us dont get up for a while. Some of us bounce right back. The story of love is epic and one that must be read. I know people would dis agree, but sometimes you do find the one.I feel like I am babbling but I love Jake.

...more

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Jun 14, 2013 Ellen rated it really liked it

Shelves: blog-tours, arc

First Kiss is an intense and emotional coming of age story about first love that was so much more that I expected. Actually, it was one of those books that leave you still thinking really hard about it the next morning when you wake up. The story begins the summer before Jake's senior year and Alyssa's freshman year. Jake and his band are starting to make a name for themselves, tour, and have developed quite a fan base. Alyssa is the girl next door who Jake never considered more than his friend' First Kiss is an intense and emotional coming of age story about first love that was so much more that I expected. Actually, it was one of those books that leave you still thinking really hard about it the next morning when you wake up. The story begins the summer before Jake's senior year and Alyssa's freshman year. Jake and his band are starting to make a name for themselves, tour, and have developed quite a fan base. Alyssa is the girl next door who Jake never considered more than his friend's little sister, until one day he noticed she wasn't so little anymore. What starts out as friendship develops into so much more and takes Jake, Alyssa, and pretty much everyone who knows them by surprise. The story centers around their relationship, but encompasses the whole world of challenges of teen love, which is complicated even further by the age difference, and then there is the whole rock-and-roll star scene and the lifestyle that involves. Throw in jealous exes, and friends and family who don't seem to have your best interest at heart - or do they, and you are in for a helluva a ride.

One of the main issues in Jake and Alyssa's relationship is the age difference. Granted, a few years down the road 3 or 4 years isn't going to make a difference, but right now, it presents quite a challenge. Personally, I didn't have a problem with it. I think that is something you have to judge on a case by case basis. For the most part, I think Jake and Alyssa were okay with the age difference and handled things well. It was just everyone else in involved that had the problem, but that is not to say they don't have their challenges, and when it rains it pours. I liked Aly, I really did. She had her immature moments for sure, but her innocence was part of her charm, but for the most part, she handled things far better than someone beyond her years. I loved Jake to, and I think things were harder on him than anyone, though he pissed me off royally at one point, but I can also see where this adds to the story. I have have faith that he is going to fully redeem himself before it is all over, at least I really hope he does, and I can't wait to see how everything plays out. There are quite a few secondary characters in the story who play important roles in the story, some I really liked, and some I liked to hate.

The story spans over a fairly long time frame overall and is kind of long - but the novella, Skid Out, was also included in the beginning, and despite the length, I did enjoy it. The ending was something I wasn't expecting. Actually, I was kind of sad and a bit heartbroken because I didn't see what happened coming, but on the positive side, I know this is the first book in a trilogy, so there is a lot more to come to this story and I am so curious where Ann Marie Frohoff is going to take these characters in future installments. I will be cheering for these two all the way. First Kiss is not a sweet, happily ever after romance story by any means, nor are things sugar-coated in any way - sex, drugs, alcohol, partying, and family issues are all addressed, and frankly, that is one of the things I loved about this novel - that and of course the romance. Is first love true love? Maybe.......maybe not.....we'll see. I can't wait to read the next installment, Broken Notes, which is scheduled to release in December 2013. ...more

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May 14, 2015 Brandi rated it really liked it

Shelves: netgalley, rockstar-romance, ya, 2015, music

He's the future superstar and the boy-next door. She's the almost freshman and the girl-next door. A romance that neither of them ever saw coming.

Jake has been the boy next door for Aly's entire life. He was friend's with her older brother until high school sent them their separate way. Aly hadn't spoken to Jake in years and then one day her friend, Nadine, wants to meet him. That one little encounter changes everything for both of them.

Jake is 17, soon to be a senior and on his way to an awes ...more

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May 07, 2013 Kait rated it liked it

I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This is no way influenced my feelings about the book.

First Kiss is a coming of age romance that took me by surprise. At the beginning of this book I wasn't sure that it was for me. I wasn't entirely comfortable with Alyssa and Jake's relationship, and it wasn't because of their age difference. The difference in maturity, especially sexual maturity, is vast. Alyssa is about to be a freshman in high school, she's naïve and has never been kisse I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This is no way influenced my feelings about the book.

First Kiss is a coming of age romance that took me by surprise. At the beginning of this book I wasn't sure that it was for me. I wasn't entirely comfortable with Alyssa and Jake's relationship, and it wasn't because of their age difference. The difference in maturity, especially sexual maturity, is vast. Alyssa is about to be a freshman in high school, she's naïve and has never been kissed. Jake is a senior who is already running full throttle. It was hard to get into the first few chapters because I was a little worried about where this book might go, I was afraid for Alyssa.

As the chapters progressed, and the point of view changed back from Alyssa to Jake, I began to feel a little differently. Sure, Jake is a somewhat of a bad boy, but it's clear he cares about Alyssa and doesn't want to hurt her. Alyssa was a little bit annoying at times for me, but I think it was because I'm so used to older characters that have more experience in relationships.

Alyssa is a kind of typical fourteen year old girl about to enter high school. She's starting to get these feelings that are overwhelming and confusing as hell. All girls go through this. Who doesn't remember what a crush feels like at fourteen? I know I do. INTENSE. It feels like all you can think about is the boy you like and you can't stand not seeing them for one minute. This is pretty similar to what Alyssa feels. Jake consumes her, and her addiction to him causes her to make some risky decisions. I found myself looking back to when I was fourteen, and I had a lot in common with Alyssa.

Jake is pretty damn swoon worthy. Sure, he's a guy who thinks guy things a lot of the time, but he definitely has a tender, sweet side. Jake feels like he's been playing a part and no one knows him. Alyssa is different, Jake can be himself with her. He finds himself opening up to her and falling like he never has before.

I felt like there were a few too many secondary characters that had half developed stories. I think it ended up being a bit too much because I kept forgetting who was with who and exactly who each character was. I think it might have been a little better if there were one or two secondary characters with strong stories instead of five or six couples that became kind of forgettable. I was most interested in Sienna and Dump[the name cracks me up] and Notting and Kate. I would definitely read a Notting and Kate adult novel[hint, hint].

This book created a pretty true vision of teens turning into young adults. There was labeling and superficial comments, but it was realistic. Alyssa and Jake had to deal with pressure from friends and parents and the pressure of Jake being on the road. Not everything went well, and there wasn't an ending that was all pretty with a bow on top, but I definitely enjoyed the ride. I can't wait to see what happens with Jake and Alyssa next. ...more

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Apr 17, 2013 Tash rated it it was amazing

Shelves: e-arc

Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics

WHAT JUST HAPPENED? I’m still wrapping my mind around this book as it’s not what you expect from a young adult book about a rock band about to make the big time. Yeah, I had a inkling every since I first read the novella that the author has something special here and I wasn’t disappointed. The book was a tearjerker to sum it up in a nutshell.

Continuing from the novella, Jake and Aly continue to see each other—at a cost. Their group of friends soon start in Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics

WHAT JUST HAPPENED? I’m still wrapping my mind around this book as it’s not what you expect from a young adult book about a rock band about to make the big time. Yeah, I had a inkling every since I first read the novella that the author has something special here and I wasn’t disappointed. The book was a tearjerker to sum it up in a nutshell.

Continuing from the novella, Jake and Aly continue to see each other—at a cost. Their group of friends soon start injecting themselves into their relationship as well as Notting, Jake’s manager and father figure, as they are not all happy that they are sneaking around and messing up the status quo. As the boy-next-door rocker and the girl-next-door get to know each other, the secrets come tumbling out left, right and centre. The band is about to leave on tour and things are rapidly changing in Aly and Jake’s friendship and the group as a result of everyone meddling and growing up. Jake and Aly are starting to realize that they have something special going on. But, who’s kidding whom? It is not going to be easy relationship, Aly is not allowed to date until she’s 16 and her parents are well known for being strict. They need to figure out how they’re going to survive but it isn’t going to be easy.

If I could choose a YA that been my favourite so far this year, this would have to be the book. There is so much going on in this book but it doesn’t seem over the top. It’s the right balance between all the situations as they all connect back to the main story. It’s the story of two teenagers experiencing their firsts as they are about to embark on the big time and start high school. Hence the title First Kiss. This one time I actually do not want to say too much about the story as this is a book you need to read yourself. However, if you are seeking a bad boy rocker with a story to tell and the girl next door starting to mature and question things, this is the story for you. It is a YA book but it written such a way that you can forget that Aly is only 14 and Jake is 18 at the start because of the maturity that flows through their words, resulting in a book that reads like one of those rocker books that adults fawn over but with its characters only still in high school.

I highly recommend that you read this book and buy the version with music as the music fits in perfectly in the right moments like the novella. I’m hearing a particular song repeat in my head at this very moment as I write this review. 5 couples once again and I’m waiting in anticipation for the second book. An excellent debut from this author.

For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page

...more

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Aug 05, 2013 Chu rated it really liked it

Shelves: star-struck

Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak

First Kiss is not exactly what I expected, there was a time where I think the characters are way too young, or the story dragged. But the ending was pretty unexpected.

Nevertheless, I love these kids! Yes! They were young, especially Alyssa. Jake and she grew up together and have been friends and neighbors since they were young. Their lives drifted apart somewhere along the way, Jake was busy with forming a band and becoming famous, while Alyssa was focused Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak

First Kiss is not exactly what I expected, there was a time where I think the characters are way too young, or the story dragged. But the ending was pretty unexpected.

Nevertheless, I love these kids! Yes! They were young, especially Alyssa. Jake and she grew up together and have been friends and neighbors since they were young. Their lives drifted apart somewhere along the way, Jake was busy with forming a band and becoming famous, while Alyssa was focused on her friends and her sports, volleyball. Their paths once again crossed when Summer began, and unexpectedly – chemistry sparked.

Since she was young, and they both knew Alyssa’s parents would most likely not allow their daughter to get involve with him, they kept their relationship a secret. Most often, she would sneak up to his room and spend some time there. It was weird and I totally understand Alyssa’s older sister why she was opposed to the two – her sister was very young, naïve and doesn’t have any experience with boys, while Jake who’s 18 has been with girls, have done drugs and booze. How can they carry on a relationship? Will Alyssa get out of it unscathed when Jake no longer wanted her?

The dual-POV was a blessing. I always loved getting into the brains of the characters, and not second-guessing them. I liked Jake – he was a gentleman, and did not force Alyssa to do anything that she wasn’t ready for. You may wonder why of all people, he fell for someone way younger. There were a lot of girls, but why Alyssa? Well, she’s the only remaining NORMAL in his life. She makes him feel loved and everything about the two of them just feels real. BUT of course, I would have preferred if he waited for her to grow up a little more.

I never expected the novel to be that long. It was more than what I expected. Nevertheless, it was amazing how the author was able to manage to compress almost ALL teenage issues into one book. And what I love more about this novel are the songs!!! It wasn’t just the tunes or the melody, but the lyrics were pretty great as well!

Now, all we have to do is be patient, sit back and wait for the sequel.

*ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review. ...more

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Mar 13, 2012 Autumn Review rated it really liked it

Shelves: review, blog-tours, arc

3.5 stars
I had really high expectations for this book. I loved the prequel, Skid Out and was crazy excited for this book. While I did end up liking it, it was a bit too long and drawn out for me. I am excited about reading the second book in the series though. I'm curious to see where Frohoff takes these characters. ...more

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Jul 29, 2013 Akilah Raines rated it really liked it

I need book 2 like NOW!! Review to come on www.smibookclub.com 8/8/13 ...more

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Apr 09, 2012 Gloria Green rated it it was amazing

Ready to feel young again? Not that I would repeat my teenage years though. As amazing as all the new feelings and experiences were as teen, the pain of heartache was unbearable at that age. Damn hormones!

I read the novella SKID OUT last year when my friend The Autumn Review suggested it because of my love for music and musicians. I had no idea at the time that it was just the prequel to First Kiss (The Heavy Influence Trilogy). I was fit to be tied after reading Skid Out. It was so good and s Ready to feel young again? Not that I would repeat my teenage years though. As amazing as all the new feelings and experiences were as teen, the pain of heartache was unbearable at that age. Damn hormones!

I read the novella SKID OUT last year when my friend The Autumn Review suggested it because of my love for music and musicians. I had no idea at the time that it was just the prequel to First Kiss (The Heavy Influence Trilogy). I was fit to be tied after reading Skid Out. It was so good and such a tease for a story I knew I was going to love. I was so lucky to be given and ARC of First Kiss.

First Kiss is the story of Aly and Jake. Aly is just fourteen and has known her neighbor Jake most of her life. Once her older brother's friend, Jake is now the hot soon-to-be rock star. Aly and her crew of friends are ready to start their summer as they prepare to be high school freshmen. All of sudden Jake isn't just her neighbor. Hormones have jumped into overdrive for Aly and she is clueless about what to do with the new attraction she has for Jake. Her friend Nadine is a little ahead in the flirting game and encourages Aly to introduce her to "Abercrombie Status" Jake. But of course Jake now has eyes for Aly. He's seventeen and use to the groupie type girls with all their make-up and fake nails and over done hair. He's drawn to all-natural Aly who knows him as just Jake, not the part he plays as a rocker.

As I was reading the story I could remember just how it felt to be fourteen and crushing on a guy. I remember exactly what it was like to be friends with the guys and other girls getting pissy about it because they wanted to be their girlfriends. The same girls were testing out new experiences with the guys while I was being the good little girl too scared to show my inexperience. Aly is so sweet and I love that she says what she feels to Jake and actually looks to him for an explanation of the new sensations she having because of him. The author writes it so well that I could feel the giddy butterflies as Aly gets her first kiss and first experiences of being close to a guy that makes you feel like you're going to melt into a puddle. Aly and her friends get to experience their first high-school party thanks to Jake too. Now Rachel, bitch and one-time hook-up of Jakes, shows her true colors(mainly green with jealousy) at the party and gives Aly a little push into the pool. But I love how this brings Aly's sister more into the story. She goes "off like she has Tourette's" on Rachel. Allison tries to discourage Aly from getting involved with Jake though by pointing out that he's about to make it a big as a musician and will be hooking up with girls all over the country on tour. Allison has a heart to heart with Aly about choices she had to make and her fears that Aly is about to make the same mistakes she did.

Jake is feeling so inspired by his feelings for Aly. His music begins to reflect those emotions and his band members like what they hear. Everyone except the guitarist Mike. He's as big a douchebag as Rachel is a bitch. They become quite the team trying to mess things up between Aly and Jake. Jake convinces Aly to sing one of his new songs with him. They record it before he leaves on tour.

Unfortunately things spiral out of control. Jake starts making really poor choices. Parents get involved and Jake is forced to stay
away from Aly. Aly goes through the common issues I remember going through when three girls try to be best friends, one is always left out or feels rejected. Aly's brother and sister really come through and try to stand up for Jake and Aly. I love Aly's friend Marshall. They help each other through a lot of the rough spots teens deal with. It was really hard reading about Jake and Aly as they admit that they can't have a relationship right now. I'm sucker for emo musicians. Jake makes efforts to move on. I am so NOT happy about that by the way. I know it's more like what would happen in reality but that's why I read fiction. He was not suppose to really take a break from Aly. Any way, Mike decides to take what he wants from Aly, her willing or not. Rachel almost has a redeeming moment, almost. Mike gets what's coming to him.

The last few chapters really kill me. I'm such a sap. Yes there was tears and snot. Jake and his band leave for a European tour. Through everything, Jake can't run from his feelings for Aly. She owns his heart. I can only hope for happier moments for them in the next book. Over all I love First Kiss. ...more

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Dec 29, 2012 Amy Fournier rated it really liked it

Shelves: ebook, arc, own

* Actual rating 3.5 stars.

After reading Skid Out a few months back, I was really excited for First Kiss! We get introduced to some of the characters, and I couldn't wait to know more about Alysa. Something to note, Skid Out is actually Part 1 of this book, so if you have read it, you can skip it, or use it as a good refresher. I thought this was a little on the long side, and I was a bit put off by some of the derogatory terms and words used, but I did really enjoy the story! It's written in mul * Actual rating 3.5 stars.

After reading Skid Out a few months back, I was really excited for First Kiss! We get introduced to some of the characters, and I couldn't wait to know more about Alysa. Something to note, Skid Out is actually Part 1 of this book, so if you have read it, you can skip it, or use it as a good refresher. I thought this was a little on the long side, and I was a bit put off by some of the derogatory terms and words used, but I did really enjoy the story! It's written in multi POV, thought I thought of it as more of Dual POV since we only get Rachel's a few times.

Alyssa is young at only fourteen years old, and when Jake starts to notice her, she starts to realize that she likes him. Being so young, she's not allowed to date and so she has to sneak around to hang out with him. I loved how honest she was about most things. If she had a question or if she was feeling something, she didn't hold back. On the other hand, she was so hypocritical about things. Like she didn't know how it could work if his mom didn't like her, yet she's not even allowed to date and has to hide it from her parents. Or she gets mad when girls are hanging around him, especially Rachel, but she hangs out with Mike and hides it when she knows that Jake hates him. I had to constantly remind myself that she was only fourteen though, and we all are immature and make stupid decisions and mistakes at that age.

Jake was really sweet and awesome to Alyssa. It seemed that everyone was constantly judging him as a player since he's in a band. He is different around Alyssa though. He doesn't know what it is about her, but she makes him feel like his life if somewhat normal. She's open and honest with him and he feels at ease. He doesn't have to pretend to be the "cool guy" around her. He's got a lot going on with the band, and his family, and then add Alyssa to things and he's kind of a mess. I really liked him for most of the book, but honestly towards the end I started to dislike him. It was like he decided to be the stereotype that everyone has set him as. I did really love how protective and passionate he was about Alyssa, but his own personal demons just pull him down.

The romance was believable to me. I liked that he and Alyssa had a history. Yes, it seemed like they fell for each other quick, but they took things slow. He just really wanted to make sure she was happy and never would push her to do anything she didn't want. I loved that they were so at ease around each other, but I hated that they had to sneak around. Then when things get bad and their parents are involved that's when things really got intense. I really think that if the parents had not been so harsh about keeping them apart and let them be (to an extent) that things would not have spiraled so out of control. I really wanted them to work out so badly. I wasn't fully invested in their relationship mostly due to Aly being a little too friendly with Mike, and Jake messing up a few times, but by the end of the book I started to feel the emotions that I wanted to feel throughout the book for them.

This was really great! With the exception on some of the characters gay bashing, people calling each other the "R" word, and some slut shaming, I really liked the story and characters. I understand that teenagers, especially when drinking and stuff, will be mean and that they do say things like that, but it makes me really sad and angry. As I mentioned before, it was a little on the long side too, but I really felt like I got to know all of the characters well. I am really curious to where things are going to go now since things still are a little messy and unresolved. Overall, I enjoyed this and am looking forward to more from this author!

* An advanced copy was provided by the tour host for an honest review. I did not receive any compensation. ...more

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Jun 26, 2013 Kristie rated it really liked it

Shelves: blog-tour, review

Jake and Aly don't have that easy lovey dovey relationship. They go through ups and downs, age difference aside. He is going to be a senior, her a freshman. Also, he is a lead singer in a rock band.

The road to fame is a hard one, especially when you're in a new relationship and girls are flaunting themselves to get your attention. It also doesn't help the fact when your girlfriend is younger so her jealousy is easily activated. There are times when Jake goes into more of an elderly brother role Jake and Aly don't have that easy lovey dovey relationship. They go through ups and downs, age difference aside. He is going to be a senior, her a freshman. Also, he is a lead singer in a rock band.

The road to fame is a hard one, especially when you're in a new relationship and girls are flaunting themselves to get your attention. It also doesn't help the fact when your girlfriend is younger so her jealousy is easily activated. There are times when Jake goes into more of an elderly brother role than boyfriend, which is great because it means he realizes that Aly can't have his glam life. But that doesn't stop Aly from partying with him. She does get drunk a few times, while Jake doesn't approve, he does take care of her when she does rebel.

There are parts where it dragged. Sometimes I felt that it should have been shorter. The "typical" rockstar life doesn't start hitting till the last third of the book. There is drama between the band members and secrets get revealed in this time too. It was almost too much at once. But at the same time its like you're on the downfall with Aly and Jake.

Also, what's a rockstar who doesn't do drugs? Although, unlike it being incorporated as a part of the lifestyle, his addiction starts after the band gets into a fist fight. The relationships between the band members isn't all brotherly. One of the guys starts bugging Jake as he starts wanting to sing love songs. His relationship with Aly was all Jake thought about. Its safe to say not all of the band agrees. Jake starts to stand up for these changes and let's just say, it ended in a broken hand. Then its the pain meds that centers Jake's world too.

When you're dating someone 3 years younger than you as a teenager, keep it from your parents is all you want to do. And just as hard it is to keep from your parents, they can find out just as easily. Safe to say that when Aly's parents found out, it didn't go so well. All they thought is they were together for sex and no relationship. Like any father, Aly's dad does what he thinks is best. To him that meant a restraining order. This all goes down right after the addiction starts.

After everything blows up, it goes into 6 months into the future. Aly and Jake haven't really spoken. She's mad at him for things that happened. In the end it was really all for her.

I'm sorry if this review makes no sense. Its a really beautiful book. But to narrow it down to a few words, I'd say "Sex, drugs and rock n roll", well maybe not the sex part, so let's say Teen love instead. Can't wait for Broken Notes ...more

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Jul 11, 2012 Trader (RedHotBlueReads) rated it really liked it

Last year when I finished Skid Out, the preview novella to First Kiss, I wanted more. I eagerly anticipated First Kiss which does a really nice job of continuing the story, and I thought it contained some nice surprises.

The author takes some chances here with a significant age difference between the lead characters and I thought she did a great job of making this relationship not only believable, but interesting. Jake is 17, with some life experiences from being in a rock band. Aly is 14, just s Last year when I finished Skid Out, the preview novella to First Kiss, I wanted more. I eagerly anticipated First Kiss which does a really nice job of continuing the story, and I thought it contained some nice surprises.

The author takes some chances here with a significant age difference between the lead characters and I thought she did a great job of making this relationship not only believable, but interesting. Jake is 17, with some life experiences from being in a rock band. Aly is 14, just starting high school. There is a significant difference in maturity here, but somehow it works and I found myself really pulled into their story.Even though they both make some major mistakes in this, I finished this first book in the series wanting them to make it work.

I appreciated the fact that their voices were right for their ages too. Alyssa is young, and her speech reflects that.She’s fourteen.. overly dramatic..totally confused about her new feelings, and impulsive.I liked the volleyball action and would have loved it to have been introduced earlier in the book as I would have liked to know more about that aspect of Aly’s life.

Jake is more experienced, but he’s still not savvy enough to tell people the full truth. He dicks around with Rachel. He’ve very protective of Aly until he makes one major mistake.

Ann Marie Frohoff does a great job getting the reader back in touch with the stuff of high school in all its back-stabbing, confusing, angst-filled glory. Mike and Rachel are the perfect antagonists in the story with their scheming against Jake and Aly.

The story was rich with subplots and I particularly liked the story between Jake’s mom Kate and Notting and Bobby and Marshall’s story.

First Kiss had a very nice pacing and really drew me into the story. Much like Skid Out, I finished wanting more. My heart was breaking for Jake at the end, but I was glad it ended on a hopeful note. I can’t wait to find out what Aly was doing for that year she didn’t see him.

Great start to this series and it looks like there is much more to it. Looking forward to more.

eArc courtesy of the author. ...more

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Jun 02, 2013 Kara rated it really liked it

Review posted at: http://bookcrushbookreviews.com/2013/...

Do you remember your first love? That's the road this book took me down. It reminds us of how we'd lie to our parents, sneak out of the house, and make poor decisions at times because all we care about is being with our boyfriend/girlfriend. I love how Ann gave us the different POVs between Aly, Jake, and Rachel. Aly is younger than Jake (a freshman to his senior) but her bite can be lethal and she goes for what she wants. Jake is the hot ...more

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Jan 05, 2013 Kim rated it liked it

This is the story of a boy who wanted to be a rockstar. This story was a continuation of the novella Skid Out. It started off with the novella then proceeded with the rest of the story. Jake is hoping to get his band to hit it big. Alyssa is his next door neighbor. They start hanging out and realize they like each other. Alyssa is only 14 and is not allowed to date til she is 16 so they have to keep their relationship a secret from their parents. But their friends know. Jake is going on tour son ...more

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Jul 08, 2013 Jocelyn rated it it was amazing

Shelves: reviews

When I began to read this I was quickly captivated by the characters a few times I wanted to stop reading but I am glad I finished it. Very few books move me emotionally enough to make me tear up let alone cry this book managed that. I would easily rate it 5 stars because it truly deserves that it may have a few flaws but they are minuscule compared to the book as a whole. I recommend it to all.
It is about two teens in love Aly 14 and Jake 17. For many reasons they can't exactly tell people the ...more

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Oct 16, 2013 Josie rated it it was amazing

Yeah ok I am big girl so I am just going to say it, I uglied cried for a mature young adult book, damn it, I did, this book was not what I expected and I could not put it down and not to mention that I wanted to jump in that Kindle of mine a couple of times and scream, did I mention I uglied cried (yeah OK) back to my review so this is a must read, is book 2 out yet damn it no, I need to know what happens next, I am traumatized, my Jake darn in, I knew what was going to happen and still could no ...more

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Jul 19, 2013 Bethany rated it really liked it

Shelves: ya

Please read my in-depth review here

I really liked this book and can't wait for the next one to come out!! ...more

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Jun 14, 2013 Nancy The book junkie rated it really liked it

Shelves: ebooks-i-own, books-to-review

Rating: 4.25/5

Review coming soon!

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Jul 02, 2013 Victoria rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favorite

Is a great book to read

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Apr 03, 2020 Randee rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: kindle, chick-lit, own

I am reliving my 14-15 year old self in this series. The prequel and this first book in the series held my interest and really took me back to the way I thought and felt back then. I think I will continue with this series but not immediately. I admit to overdosing on teenage angst even as I have enjoyed this story. Which is no swipe at the author. I think she has done a remarkable job of dissecting the teenage point of view. I have gotten invested in the characters and I do want to see how it pl ...more

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Mar 04, 2014 Debbie rated it it was amazing

his book grabbed me, pulled me in and still has yet to let go.

"First Kiss" beyond a shadow of a doubt is simply FABULOUS! There are honestly no words to describe the instant love I felt the moment I opened this 5 star novel. From the beginning the book takes off with Aly and Jake being next door neighbors that have known each other for years. They really haven't thought about each other as anything else until Aly and her friend walk over to say hi to Jake one summer afternoon. All of the sudden, his book grabbed me, pulled me in and still has yet to let go.

"First Kiss" beyond a shadow of a doubt is simply FABULOUS! There are honestly no words to describe the instant love I felt the moment I opened this 5 star novel. From the beginning the book takes off with Aly and Jake being next door neighbors that have known each other for years. They really haven't thought about each other as anything else until Aly and her friend walk over to say hi to Jake one summer afternoon. All of the sudden, both start to look at each other differently. An amazing and INSTANT attraction that can felt by the reader the minute the characters speak to one another.

The odds were against these two from the very beginning. You see, Aly is 14 and going to be a freshman in high school in September, while Jake is 17 and going to be a senior. The more they started hanging out, the more they knew how amazing the other was. Aly fell for Jake HARD with his strong muscles, his sweet tender ways and his no nonsense honestly to her always. Jake just adored Aly and how sweet she was, he wanted to protect her from everything and everybody. The age difference might be a bit controversial for some, but to me I quickly forgot about it because these two were just "meant to be"

The characters were well developed in this book and I never felt like the story was being rushed along or that the author forgot something that I would have included. Honestly, I could visualize this whole book in my mind and it was just ON POINT from beginning to ending.

I was also given a CD of the music with my book and let me tell you, it really adds something to the book and makes the lyrics that you read come alive. I felt every emotion the author was trying to convey. I mean seriously FANGIRL right here. I needed more of this book every time I put it down and quite honestly I will read it again before the year is through.

Think about your first love when you read this book. Go back to high school in your mind and remember all the emotions you had, all the mistakes you made and then tell me this book doesn't catch every single thing you were feeling in the moment with eloquence. This novel made me reflect back to my first love and how I felt and all the emotions that just creep to the surface in an instant when you are young and in love.

This book is hands down my favorite YA read of the year so far. This book has a bit of music and the passion a young man feels for his dream, the effects that serious situations can have on teens in relationships and the ways in which parents get involved in their children's lives from a young age. ...more

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(Heavy Influence #1)

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