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Made of Stars
When eighteen-year-old Hunter Jackson and his half sister, Ashlin, return to their dad’s for the first winter in years, they expect everything to be just like the warmer months they’d spent there as kids. And it is—at first. But Chance, the charismatic and adventurous boy who made their summers epic, is harboring deep secrets. Secrets that are quickly spiraling into something else entirely.
The reason they've never met Chance’s parents or seen his home is becoming clearer. And what the siblings used to think of as Chance's quirks—the outrageous stories, his clinginess, his dangerous impulsiveness—are now warning signs that something is seriously off.
Then Chance's mom turns up with a bullet to the head, and all eyes shift to Chance and his dad. Hunter and Ashlin know Chance is innocent...they just have to prove it. But how can they protect the boy they both love when they can’t trust a word Chance says?
The reason they've never met Chance’s parents or seen his home is becoming clearer. And what the siblings used to think of as Chance's quirks—the outrageous stories, his clinginess, his dangerous impulsiveness—are now warning signs that something is seriously off.
Then Chance's mom turns up with a bullet to the head, and all eyes shift to Chance and his dad. Hunter and Ashlin know Chance is innocent...they just have to prove it. But how can they protect the boy they both love when they can’t trust a word Chance says?
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2013
About the author
Kelley York
15 books580 followersKelley resides off the coast of Northern California with her wife, teenager, a German Shepherd, a handful of cats and rats. In addition to writing, she has her A.S. in Anthropology, and is a graphic designer with a specialty in book cover design. She spends her spare time playing video games and tabletop games like the nerd she is. Her specialty is LGBT+ fiction, usually with a dark twist.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
September 30, 2013
I didn't love this as much as Hushed - which was more my genre being a horror and all - but it does have an overall dark theme with a constant flow of mystery regarding a certain character. It's a story told under a looming grey cloud where you know a disaster is forthcoming, giving it a suspenseful tone throughout. The narrative voices are where I wasn't fully sold and ultimately stopped me from giving it my all.
Made of Stars is told through a dual perspective of a brother and a sister who have met Chance during summer break at their dad's place. Every year they meet up and have a memorable summer, then have no contact with him until next time . This year, however, things have changed. They're now a bit older and are realizing that Chance's life is not what he made it out to be. While I didn't dislike the characters- they're actually pretty likeable with their great group dynamic and unwavering bond - I found both narratives hard to distinguish. I regularly had to make a conscious effort to remind myself which perspective I was currently reading. The ebook format on my reader didn't help, surely, as twice I completely missed that the POV had changed.
With Ashlin and Hunter narrating this book, one would assume it is telling their stories, however Made of Stars is not Hunter or Ashlin's story at all. This is Chance's story. Chance is definitely my favorite of the 3. I found his character arc incredibly engaging and complex. He's broken, obviously lying about, and running from, his home life. Being a master of hiding behind a tough facade, I feel like I didn't get to know the real Chance; him to the core. Though I believe this is how Kelley intended it. We do learn just how broken he really is, as well as what's behind it, which is often the most we can hope for with tragic stories like these. However, being kept at arm's length from Chance together with the lack of distinctive voices made it impossible for me to emotionally immerse myself in these characters. I didn't feel all the feels with this one. I also was not a fan of the way it ended, it offers no closure at all. I can't say it wasn't realistic, or maybe even perfect for what this story was meant to be, but nevertheless…
I do appreciate the non-stereotypical approach Kelley takes with her books. Especially how she implements LGBT themes which, frankly, I find refreshing for a YA romance. It involves characters that lack any stereotypes in and of themselves. The realism is also a strong factor where we see Hunter beginning to realize his feelings for Chance and the internal conflict this elicits.
There is an honest, raw quality to Kelley's writing that I truly love. It's what made me a fan of hers in the first place. I think Chance's story, which is twisted and somewhat bittersweet, deserves to be read and despite my problems with the narratives I'm glad that I did.
--
An advance copy was provided by the publisher for review.
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
Made of Stars is told through a dual perspective of a brother and a sister who have met Chance during summer break at their dad's place. Every year they meet up and have a memorable summer, then have no contact with him until next time . This year, however, things have changed. They're now a bit older and are realizing that Chance's life is not what he made it out to be. While I didn't dislike the characters- they're actually pretty likeable with their great group dynamic and unwavering bond - I found both narratives hard to distinguish. I regularly had to make a conscious effort to remind myself which perspective I was currently reading. The ebook format on my reader didn't help, surely, as twice I completely missed that the POV had changed.
With Ashlin and Hunter narrating this book, one would assume it is telling their stories, however Made of Stars is not Hunter or Ashlin's story at all. This is Chance's story. Chance is definitely my favorite of the 3. I found his character arc incredibly engaging and complex. He's broken, obviously lying about, and running from, his home life. Being a master of hiding behind a tough facade, I feel like I didn't get to know the real Chance; him to the core. Though I believe this is how Kelley intended it. We do learn just how broken he really is, as well as what's behind it, which is often the most we can hope for with tragic stories like these. However, being kept at arm's length from Chance together with the lack of distinctive voices made it impossible for me to emotionally immerse myself in these characters. I didn't feel all the feels with this one. I also was not a fan of the way it ended, it offers no closure at all. I can't say it wasn't realistic, or maybe even perfect for what this story was meant to be, but nevertheless…
I do appreciate the non-stereotypical approach Kelley takes with her books. Especially how she implements LGBT themes which, frankly, I find refreshing for a YA romance. It involves characters that lack any stereotypes in and of themselves. The realism is also a strong factor where we see Hunter beginning to realize his feelings for Chance and the internal conflict this elicits.
There is an honest, raw quality to Kelley's writing that I truly love. It's what made me a fan of hers in the first place. I think Chance's story, which is twisted and somewhat bittersweet, deserves to be read and despite my problems with the narratives I'm glad that I did.
--
An advance copy was provided by the publisher for review.
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
September 29, 2013
I don’t think I can put into proper words my feelings about Kelley York’s writing. Thus far, she’s always written LGBT young adult fiction with broken boys. But really, that’s putting her prose far too simply. She always writes with an authentic voice that somehow manages to come across childlike, but adult. A voice that manages to sound innocent, but jaded. A story that shows humans can easily be both good and bad. She writes stories that make me think, make my heart break in tiny pieces, and make me look at things surrounding me in new ways. She inspires me simply put.
Made of Stars is a complex story of three teenagers on the precipice of discovering who they are, what they want in life, what they are willing to sacrifice and give up, and what they are willing to fight for at all cost. Hunter Jackson and his half-sister Ashlin meet the boy they will grow to love, as they mature, by the water one summer. Chance, the boy the author describes perfectly as “strangeness and whimsy in human form.” I don’t think I can tell other readers how large my love for Chance was throughout this book. He’s both truth and lies, strength and vulnerability; he’s a boy who loves animals and sad movies, that never stops dreaming because it’s the only thing keeping him going, other than a love deep in his heart for boy he considers his haven. And for Hunter and Ashlin, Chance was their summer. He’s adventure, spontaneity, and sunshine. He’s an escape from their normal lives, and something they look forward to during those cold months away from their summers visiting their dad.
The real start of this novel begins in November. Ashlin and Hunter have graduated from high school and have decided to take a year off before deciding whether or not to attend college. Ashlin lives in California normally with her mom, and Hunter lives in Maine with his mom and her boyfriend, Bob, about four hours away from their dad, in Otter’s Rest, Maine. When Ashlin and Hunter arrive for their first winter, they don’t immediately see Chance, and it’s nerve-wracking because they haven’t been home to see their dad (or Chance) in two years due to an injury their father suffered. However, as soon as they see Chance everything goes right back as if they were all kids again. Except things aren’t quite what they seem. Ashlin still holds out for Chance’s attention, but he only has eyes and room in his heart, in that way, for Hunter. When Hunter’s girlfriend comes for a visit in Christmas, all of the relationships change. Things that have been buried come to the surface and teenagers have to face some harsh truths about themselves, the people they love, and what makes up the idea of a family. Feelings of guilt, shame, envy, awakening, and joy take over their young bodies throughout these months.
This book is slow at times, but it’s an enjoyable pace. The writing is quite sparse, yet it says so very much. It’s poetic, but at the same time, I can clearly see a real person speaking these words, having these internal monologues within themselves. There is that joy of snow, the adventure of an island, tall tales and scary truths, and the sense of family and what you make of it.
Kelley York shines, as always, in her character studies. Whenever I finish one of her books, I feel as if a part of me was torn away when I put the book down, as if leaving her characters rips them from my life. I worry about them, I love them, and I just want the best for them. To me, that’s what books are about and what brings me joy. What I most appreciate, though, is she will make you work to love each one of them or emote understanding for individuals you’d otherwise never would.
Ashlin is such a wonderful, selfless, brave young woman. A caring daughter, a giving sister, a devoted friend. She, also, recognizes emotions and feelings of other characters in such simple, understanding ways. I loved when she understood why she wanted Chance, and it correlated so perfectly of what she thought Hunter and Rachel’s relationship held, and even more when she saw the truth between Hunter and Chance. Hunter is that all-American boy whose story should be so simple, if this was just any fairy-tale story. And Chance…Chance is best left for the reader to discover on their own, but I heart him so very, very much.
Made of Stars is a complex story of three teenagers on the precipice of discovering who they are, what they want in life, what they are willing to sacrifice and give up, and what they are willing to fight for at all cost. Hunter Jackson and his half-sister Ashlin meet the boy they will grow to love, as they mature, by the water one summer. Chance, the boy the author describes perfectly as “strangeness and whimsy in human form.” I don’t think I can tell other readers how large my love for Chance was throughout this book. He’s both truth and lies, strength and vulnerability; he’s a boy who loves animals and sad movies, that never stops dreaming because it’s the only thing keeping him going, other than a love deep in his heart for boy he considers his haven. And for Hunter and Ashlin, Chance was their summer. He’s adventure, spontaneity, and sunshine. He’s an escape from their normal lives, and something they look forward to during those cold months away from their summers visiting their dad.
The real start of this novel begins in November. Ashlin and Hunter have graduated from high school and have decided to take a year off before deciding whether or not to attend college. Ashlin lives in California normally with her mom, and Hunter lives in Maine with his mom and her boyfriend, Bob, about four hours away from their dad, in Otter’s Rest, Maine. When Ashlin and Hunter arrive for their first winter, they don’t immediately see Chance, and it’s nerve-wracking because they haven’t been home to see their dad (or Chance) in two years due to an injury their father suffered. However, as soon as they see Chance everything goes right back as if they were all kids again. Except things aren’t quite what they seem. Ashlin still holds out for Chance’s attention, but he only has eyes and room in his heart, in that way, for Hunter. When Hunter’s girlfriend comes for a visit in Christmas, all of the relationships change. Things that have been buried come to the surface and teenagers have to face some harsh truths about themselves, the people they love, and what makes up the idea of a family. Feelings of guilt, shame, envy, awakening, and joy take over their young bodies throughout these months.
This book is slow at times, but it’s an enjoyable pace. The writing is quite sparse, yet it says so very much. It’s poetic, but at the same time, I can clearly see a real person speaking these words, having these internal monologues within themselves. There is that joy of snow, the adventure of an island, tall tales and scary truths, and the sense of family and what you make of it.
Kelley York shines, as always, in her character studies. Whenever I finish one of her books, I feel as if a part of me was torn away when I put the book down, as if leaving her characters rips them from my life. I worry about them, I love them, and I just want the best for them. To me, that’s what books are about and what brings me joy. What I most appreciate, though, is she will make you work to love each one of them or emote understanding for individuals you’d otherwise never would.
Ashlin is such a wonderful, selfless, brave young woman. A caring daughter, a giving sister, a devoted friend. She, also, recognizes emotions and feelings of other characters in such simple, understanding ways. I loved when she understood why she wanted Chance, and it correlated so perfectly of what she thought Hunter and Rachel’s relationship held, and even more when she saw the truth between Hunter and Chance. Hunter is that all-American boy whose story should be so simple, if this was just any fairy-tale story. And Chance…Chance is best left for the reader to discover on their own, but I heart him so very, very much.
March 25, 2014
Hunter and Ashlin are half siblings, who love each other no matter what. While Hunter is a quiet and thoughtful guy, Ashlin is more expressive. They decide to live with their dad after graduation to help help him out and to meet their childhood friend, Chance.
But something is wrong with Chance. He lies about his parents, never lets Hunter and Ash see his house and has mysterious injuries. When the secrets come to light, reality hits hard...
Made of Stars is a book that is part mystery, part coming of age romance. It's written in two different POVs, in the perspective of Hunter and Ashlin. It's too bad that Chance's voice is missing. He's such a complex and awesome written character that I just fell in love with him. He is beautiful and so broken - all wrapped up in one.
“Do you want to know why I got a dragon?”
I open my mouth to ask him what the fuck is wrong with him. He’s been missing for days and shows up on my back porch, bruised, barely dressed in the snow, and he wants to tell me about dragons? But Chance’s eyes are dark and distant, his lips slightly parted. His expression is so still and calm, but I can see his fingers trembling, twitching slightly at his sides....
“I got the dragon because it reminded me of you. A reminder that the guy I loved would always come home to me, and he’d always have my back.”
Watching Chance and Hunter open up to each other is incredible written. There are no gay stereotypes in sight. Chance and Hunter are never labeled as gay at all. They're just two boys in love.
Chance twists around, a sad smile on his face as his eyes meet mine. “We’re all made of stars,” he agrees. “We burn bright, then we flicker away.”
Made of stars is a fantastic written book and kept me on the edge of my seat until it suddenly ends... without really ending. It left me wondering if my ebook was missing a few pages, nothing was resolved, everything was left hanging... as if the book had more story to tell...
Read
January 29, 2020DNF 30 pages in. Reads like fanfiction. Goes from one thing to the next in a choppy 2d way, doesn’t flow smoothly at all. Plus it’s dual pov which I loathe.
October 16, 2013
I received this book as an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A really well written story of friendship and love. I really liked all the characters, and the depth of their bonds with each other. I loved how Ashlin, even though she didn’t get what she thought she wanted, was never made out to be the bitchy, jealous female, and how her love for both her brother and her friend never wavered. I really liked Hunter, and his need to appear to be strong, and protect those he cared about. It never came off as overbearing, or possessive, just very loving. I liked Chance as well, and even though I felt like I had a hard time getting a grasp on him, his purity of heart shined through. I liked their father as well. Their family connections were not the usual, but that didn’t make Ashlin and Hunter any less brother and sister, nor their father any less loving. It was nice to see some strong adults amongst the rest.
The plot was well developed, and I was quickly drawn in by the story and the style of the writing. I liked that things took a little while to develop before the main thrust of the action began. It gave me a much better feel for the characters, and only deepened my concern for them when things started to go wrong. That ending was the only honest way to end this story. After I finished I was still wondering, and worrying a little about what would happen to the characters now, and isn’t that the mark of a great story.
A really well written story of friendship and love. I really liked all the characters, and the depth of their bonds with each other. I loved how Ashlin, even though she didn’t get what she thought she wanted, was never made out to be the bitchy, jealous female, and how her love for both her brother and her friend never wavered. I really liked Hunter, and his need to appear to be strong, and protect those he cared about. It never came off as overbearing, or possessive, just very loving. I liked Chance as well, and even though I felt like I had a hard time getting a grasp on him, his purity of heart shined through. I liked their father as well. Their family connections were not the usual, but that didn’t make Ashlin and Hunter any less brother and sister, nor their father any less loving. It was nice to see some strong adults amongst the rest.
The plot was well developed, and I was quickly drawn in by the story and the style of the writing. I liked that things took a little while to develop before the main thrust of the action began. It gave me a much better feel for the characters, and only deepened my concern for them when things started to go wrong. That ending was the only honest way to end this story. After I finished I was still wondering, and worrying a little about what would happen to the characters now, and isn’t that the mark of a great story.
June 6, 2018
"We're all made of stars." Und genau deshalb bekommt dieses Buch von mir auch ALLE Sterne, die es gibt. Ja, ich habe ein neues Lieblingsbuch. Und ich will nicht, dass es vorbei ist. Und jetzt werde ich weinen gehen.
UPDATE 25.04.2018 | Ich hatte einfach völlig VERGESSEN, wie dieses verdammte Buch endet. Ich fasse es nicht, dass ich nun schon wieder mit meinen Nerven am Ende bin. Ich lege euch allen dieses Buch ans Herz, es ist großartig.
UPDATE 25.04.2018 | Ich hatte einfach völlig VERGESSEN, wie dieses verdammte Buch endet. Ich fasse es nicht, dass ich nun schon wieder mit meinen Nerven am Ende bin. Ich lege euch allen dieses Buch ans Herz, es ist großartig.
November 5, 2013
3.5 Stars.
What did I like most about Made of Stars? The writing; I found a certain warmth (despite the constant melancholy) in the writing all along. Careful, loving storytelling without pretense; it felt like there were no extravagant props (bells and whistles) needed to carry the story along.
Here’s an excerpt that I adored which will hopefully give you a taste of what I loved:
“We sprint through the mall, the thumping of my pulse and Chance’s breathless laughter a duet in my ears.... Suddenly, it’s summer and we’re fifteen again. Chance is all ungainly limbs and freckles with a shirt too big on him and sneakers that are falling apart. It’s one of those moments where everything else in the world fades to a dull hum in the background because all that exists is Chance and me, and I want to take his bright-eyed, exhilarated face and bottle it up for safe keeping.”.
Isn’t that gorgeous? Hang on, let me give you one more taste:
“... Chance and Hunter were the inseparable ones. Chance, who always wanted to go everywhere Hunter did. Chance, who always showed off the most when he knew Hunter was watching... Chance orbits Hunter like the planets orbit the sun, aching to be closer but never daring. Until now, I suppose.��.
*Swoons*
The three MCs are well developed so you get to understand each of them thoroughly. I enjoyed experiencing their story from alternating POVs with names at the start of each chapter to make the transition between each POV easy to decipher.
It’s a sweet Gay For You story with a storyline which remains pretty close to the blurb. Had it given me a little bit more “will they, won’t they” or a few more twists and turns I would have happily rated it higher. Oh, and the ending... It’s um... Abrupt (my Kindle was at 88 per cent and then SLAP!, it was all over). But it also makes sense for Chance, which leaves an even bigger ache in my heart for his tormented and brave soul.
I will read more of Kelly York’s work. End of story.
What did I like most about Made of Stars? The writing; I found a certain warmth (despite the constant melancholy) in the writing all along. Careful, loving storytelling without pretense; it felt like there were no extravagant props (bells and whistles) needed to carry the story along.
Here’s an excerpt that I adored which will hopefully give you a taste of what I loved:
“We sprint through the mall, the thumping of my pulse and Chance’s breathless laughter a duet in my ears.... Suddenly, it’s summer and we’re fifteen again. Chance is all ungainly limbs and freckles with a shirt too big on him and sneakers that are falling apart. It’s one of those moments where everything else in the world fades to a dull hum in the background because all that exists is Chance and me, and I want to take his bright-eyed, exhilarated face and bottle it up for safe keeping.”.
Isn’t that gorgeous? Hang on, let me give you one more taste:
“... Chance and Hunter were the inseparable ones. Chance, who always wanted to go everywhere Hunter did. Chance, who always showed off the most when he knew Hunter was watching... Chance orbits Hunter like the planets orbit the sun, aching to be closer but never daring. Until now, I suppose.��.
*Swoons*
The three MCs are well developed so you get to understand each of them thoroughly. I enjoyed experiencing their story from alternating POVs with names at the start of each chapter to make the transition between each POV easy to decipher.
It’s a sweet Gay For You story with a storyline which remains pretty close to the blurb. Had it given me a little bit more “will they, won’t they” or a few more twists and turns I would have happily rated it higher. Oh, and the ending... It’s um... Abrupt (my Kindle was at 88 per cent and then SLAP!, it was all over). But it also makes sense for Chance, which leaves an even bigger ache in my heart for his tormented and brave soul.
I will read more of Kelly York’s work. End of story.
October 20, 2013
For this review & more, visit Such a Novel Idea.
Well, that wrecked my heart, in all the ways that books should.
My Thoughts
“When I kiss him, Chance sets a hand in my shirt to hold me right where I am. His lips are dry, but his mouth is warm, and I think… this is how life should be. Chance and me. Kissing him whenever I want.”
The more Entangled Teen books I read, the more I fall in love with this publishing house. They just keep getting it right!
Made of Stars is no exception. It is haunting, gritty, passionate, and raw. The dynamics of the three teens: Chance, Hunter, and Ashlin are complicated. Nothing in this book was simple or followed the YA "pattern". You were kept guessing, and though some things could be figured out, the way it was written kept you guessing until the very end. I've never read a book that is a contemporary romance and a mystery/thriller quite like this one. Somehow, Kelley York meshed the two into this amazing piece of work.
“Chance has the ability to shatter me into the minuscule fragments and base elements of the star I supposedly came from.”
I loved that I was able to root for Hunter and Chance from the beginning. I could see the two point of views: Ashlin and Hunter and their loves for Chance. It was wholly apparent that Hunter and Chance's souls were inexplicably linked -- even if the two took a bit longer to come around. At first Ashlin and Hunter sounded very similar; it was hard to distinguish between the two point of views. But as Hunter explored his feelings for his friend, the two characters became very different. The one thing I really wish would have been a part of the story was Chance's voice -- although I understand why it wasn't there. The book is full of mystery and not knowing what is going through Chance's mind -- having to glean the facts from the other characters only adds to the story.
Chance twists around, a sad smile on his face as his eyes meet mine. “We’re all made of stars,” he agrees. “We burn bright, then we flicker away.”
Chance & Hunter were beautiful. They made my heart fill with emotion and the two dug their way into my soul. The imagery and language Kelley uses to show them fall into each other is just breathtaking. I am a lover of books that compare our lives to stars (These Broken Stars, The Fault in Our Stars, The Little Prince, etc...) and this one earned a place among the greats.
Overall, this is a coming-of-age story at its finest. It is a powerful composition on love, family, and growing up. I gave this book a 5, rather than a 4 for how it ended. I won't say more, because it really is something you have to experience for yourself, but I will say that it was executed perfectly. The book is well-written (that's an understatement!), captivating, mysterious, thrilling, and beautiful. It will break your heart, but you won't be able to put it down for one minute.
*I received this e-book in exchange for an honest review.*
Rating: 5/5 stars
Well, that wrecked my heart, in all the ways that books should.
My Thoughts
“When I kiss him, Chance sets a hand in my shirt to hold me right where I am. His lips are dry, but his mouth is warm, and I think… this is how life should be. Chance and me. Kissing him whenever I want.”
The more Entangled Teen books I read, the more I fall in love with this publishing house. They just keep getting it right!
Made of Stars is no exception. It is haunting, gritty, passionate, and raw. The dynamics of the three teens: Chance, Hunter, and Ashlin are complicated. Nothing in this book was simple or followed the YA "pattern". You were kept guessing, and though some things could be figured out, the way it was written kept you guessing until the very end. I've never read a book that is a contemporary romance and a mystery/thriller quite like this one. Somehow, Kelley York meshed the two into this amazing piece of work.
“Chance has the ability to shatter me into the minuscule fragments and base elements of the star I supposedly came from.”
I loved that I was able to root for Hunter and Chance from the beginning. I could see the two point of views: Ashlin and Hunter and their loves for Chance. It was wholly apparent that Hunter and Chance's souls were inexplicably linked -- even if the two took a bit longer to come around. At first Ashlin and Hunter sounded very similar; it was hard to distinguish between the two point of views. But as Hunter explored his feelings for his friend, the two characters became very different. The one thing I really wish would have been a part of the story was Chance's voice -- although I understand why it wasn't there. The book is full of mystery and not knowing what is going through Chance's mind -- having to glean the facts from the other characters only adds to the story.
Chance twists around, a sad smile on his face as his eyes meet mine. “We’re all made of stars,” he agrees. “We burn bright, then we flicker away.”
Chance & Hunter were beautiful. They made my heart fill with emotion and the two dug their way into my soul. The imagery and language Kelley uses to show them fall into each other is just breathtaking. I am a lover of books that compare our lives to stars (These Broken Stars, The Fault in Our Stars, The Little Prince, etc...) and this one earned a place among the greats.
Overall, this is a coming-of-age story at its finest. It is a powerful composition on love, family, and growing up. I gave this book a 5, rather than a 4 for how it ended. I won't say more, because it really is something you have to experience for yourself, but I will say that it was executed perfectly. The book is well-written (that's an understatement!), captivating, mysterious, thrilling, and beautiful. It will break your heart, but you won't be able to put it down for one minute.
*I received this e-book in exchange for an honest review.*
Rating: 5/5 stars
July 14, 2012
This is one of those books that you finish and then sit in that bubble of amazing things and wish that it wasn't over.
Yes, It's that good.
These characters will stick with me for a long time.
Yes, It's that good.
These characters will stick with me for a long time.
December 17, 2016
"We’re all made of stars,” he agrees. “We burn bright, then we flicker away".
It’s no secret I’m addicted to Kelley York’s writing and all her lovely broken boys. Last December I read both Hushed and Suicide Watch and I absolutely loved them. They were without a doubt two of my favorite books of 2015. Now Made of Stars is one of my favs of 2016.
As always, there’s just this eerie feeling that comes with her novels and I’m addicted to it. They’re dark and twisted stories that make you question your personal ethics and what actually makes someone a villain. Even though I would love to go into details on how this one pushed those limits, just as Hushed and Suicide Watch, I am determined to keep this spoiler-free. So instead, I’ll discuss the beauty of her characters.
Ashlin was great. This is the first Kelley York novel I’ve read with a main character who’s female, so I was a bit skeptical going in, but I was pleasantly surprised. I loved her determination, and the adorable way she protected Chance and Hunter. She’s definitely one of my favorite female MCs I’ve read this year.
Chance, one of the quirkiest main men I’ve ever read, captured my heart the moment he rescued Barbies from the river. His love for adventure, and horrible home life, made me want to wrap him in a blanket and drive him far away from that small town in Maine. Some may find his oddities off-putting, but I found them hopelessly endearing. And that tattoo. *swoons*
Hunter, however, was my favorite. He reminded me a bit of Evan from Hushed, in the way that he loved Chance unconditionally. Most people read a line like that, roll their eyes, and murmur something about sappy teenage romantics. I feel you, and usually, I’m one of the first to cast a judgmental look. In Kelley York novels though, unconditional love isn’t something to gawk at. It’s admirable. Because she doesn’t take the term “broken” lightly.
This is such a solid read. It’s eerie, romantic, unique, and perfect for those who like stories that speed up your pulse (accounting to both violence or romance). Perfect for individuals seeking a darker, deeper contemporary read that still has little moments to make you happy.
It’s no secret I’m addicted to Kelley York’s writing and all her lovely broken boys. Last December I read both Hushed and Suicide Watch and I absolutely loved them. They were without a doubt two of my favorite books of 2015. Now Made of Stars is one of my favs of 2016.
As always, there’s just this eerie feeling that comes with her novels and I’m addicted to it. They’re dark and twisted stories that make you question your personal ethics and what actually makes someone a villain. Even though I would love to go into details on how this one pushed those limits, just as Hushed and Suicide Watch, I am determined to keep this spoiler-free. So instead, I’ll discuss the beauty of her characters.
Ashlin was great. This is the first Kelley York novel I’ve read with a main character who’s female, so I was a bit skeptical going in, but I was pleasantly surprised. I loved her determination, and the adorable way she protected Chance and Hunter. She’s definitely one of my favorite female MCs I’ve read this year.
Chance, one of the quirkiest main men I’ve ever read, captured my heart the moment he rescued Barbies from the river. His love for adventure, and horrible home life, made me want to wrap him in a blanket and drive him far away from that small town in Maine. Some may find his oddities off-putting, but I found them hopelessly endearing. And that tattoo. *swoons*
Hunter, however, was my favorite. He reminded me a bit of Evan from Hushed, in the way that he loved Chance unconditionally. Most people read a line like that, roll their eyes, and murmur something about sappy teenage romantics. I feel you, and usually, I’m one of the first to cast a judgmental look. In Kelley York novels though, unconditional love isn’t something to gawk at. It’s admirable. Because she doesn’t take the term “broken” lightly.
This is such a solid read. It’s eerie, romantic, unique, and perfect for those who like stories that speed up your pulse (accounting to both violence or romance). Perfect for individuals seeking a darker, deeper contemporary read that still has little moments to make you happy.
July 15, 2012
I am a huge fan of Kelley York's writing. She makes me fall in love with these broken, flawed characters who I don't expect to love. Made of Stars is an incredible book. It blew me away.
December 6, 2013
CANT REVIEW PROPERLY BECAUSE I AM UNABLE TO SEE THROUGH MY TEARZZZZ
:''''(((((
Chance why did you do that??!!
WHY
WHY
:''''(((((
Chance why did you do that??!!
WHY
WHY
May 15, 2020
Malgré un début un peu lent, j’ai beaucoup aimé cette histoire qui a su me surprendre et qui est vraiment belle. Tragique. Mais belle.
October 30, 2013
This review originally appeared on my blog, Leeanna.me.
==
MADE OF STARS is a book that chewed me up, spit me out, and left me reeling. In the BEST way possible. This is not a YA book where there are happy endings and star-filled, easy love affairs. If you like twisty, dark, heart-breaking stories, this is the book for you.
All I can really say is READ THIS BOOK. NOW. I was lucky enough to read it in one sitting, which I think is the best way to do it, and was consumed by the emotional experience of it. I’ve spent a few days trying to write a better review, but really, I just want to flail about and type gibberish, because I liked this book so much it’s hard to put it into words.
MADE OF STARS is told from the alternating viewpoints of Hunter and Ashlin, half-siblings who spend every summer with their dad. They’ve got a complicated family story, but the most important thing is that they love each other and have a very strong sibling bond. They love their dad, too, because even though he made mistakes with their mothers, he always did the best he could do for them.
They met Chance when they were eight; he was fishing for Barbies out of the creek behind their dad’s house. Even at that first meeting, both knew there was something about Chance, and summers with their dad also mean summers with Chance. Together, they make the sort of memories that stick in your mind forever, having fun doing the craziest and most mundane of things, and reliving the joy of childhood.
This year, things are different. Together after a few years apart, Hunter, Ash, and Chance start off with their usual epic adventures. But soon Hunter and Ash start to figure out some of the secrets of Chance’s past. MADE OF STARS is in Hunter and Ash’s voices, but it’s really the tragic story of Chance. Poor Chance. I’m not always sympathetic to male characters, but here I wanted so badly for him to have good things in his life. I really felt for him, even though he sometimes frustrated me with the secrets he kept. I get why he kept those secrets, but that’s something I’ll let you discover for yourself.
There wasn’t too much distinctiveness between Hunter and Ash, but the benefit of having both of their perspectives showed me how each of them felt about Chance, as well as how others saw those feelings. Ash has a crush on Chance, Hunter thinks Chance is the best friend ever, and Chance loves Hunter. Add in Hunter’s girlfriend, one he’s not too sure about, and you have a tangle of relationships. A messy, realistic, intricate tangle. I couldn’t get enough!
One of my favorite things about MADE OF STARS is that there’s not a big emphasis on sexuality. Hunter and Chase are just two boys who happen to love each other.
When I finished the book, I screamed “THAT’S IT?” at my phone. Seriously. The ending… that ending, yo. I wanted a more complete ending (I’m a greedy reader, I usually do want more from an ending). But after I processed and thought about the book as a whole, I don’t think there can be any other ending. Which makes me sad, but it’s the right fit for the book. I’m happy Kelley York ended MADE OF STARS the way she did, instead of adding on some fairy-tale happily ever after.
I know MADE OF STARS is a book I’m going to reread, and even though I know what happens, it’s still going to sucker punch me. For me, that’s the mark of good writing and incredible storytelling.
==
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews:
==
MADE OF STARS is a book that chewed me up, spit me out, and left me reeling. In the BEST way possible. This is not a YA book where there are happy endings and star-filled, easy love affairs. If you like twisty, dark, heart-breaking stories, this is the book for you.
All I can really say is READ THIS BOOK. NOW. I was lucky enough to read it in one sitting, which I think is the best way to do it, and was consumed by the emotional experience of it. I’ve spent a few days trying to write a better review, but really, I just want to flail about and type gibberish, because I liked this book so much it’s hard to put it into words.
MADE OF STARS is told from the alternating viewpoints of Hunter and Ashlin, half-siblings who spend every summer with their dad. They’ve got a complicated family story, but the most important thing is that they love each other and have a very strong sibling bond. They love their dad, too, because even though he made mistakes with their mothers, he always did the best he could do for them.
They met Chance when they were eight; he was fishing for Barbies out of the creek behind their dad’s house. Even at that first meeting, both knew there was something about Chance, and summers with their dad also mean summers with Chance. Together, they make the sort of memories that stick in your mind forever, having fun doing the craziest and most mundane of things, and reliving the joy of childhood.
This year, things are different. Together after a few years apart, Hunter, Ash, and Chance start off with their usual epic adventures. But soon Hunter and Ash start to figure out some of the secrets of Chance’s past. MADE OF STARS is in Hunter and Ash’s voices, but it’s really the tragic story of Chance. Poor Chance. I’m not always sympathetic to male characters, but here I wanted so badly for him to have good things in his life. I really felt for him, even though he sometimes frustrated me with the secrets he kept. I get why he kept those secrets, but that’s something I’ll let you discover for yourself.
There wasn’t too much distinctiveness between Hunter and Ash, but the benefit of having both of their perspectives showed me how each of them felt about Chance, as well as how others saw those feelings. Ash has a crush on Chance, Hunter thinks Chance is the best friend ever, and Chance loves Hunter. Add in Hunter’s girlfriend, one he’s not too sure about, and you have a tangle of relationships. A messy, realistic, intricate tangle. I couldn’t get enough!
One of my favorite things about MADE OF STARS is that there’s not a big emphasis on sexuality. Hunter and Chase are just two boys who happen to love each other.
When I finished the book, I screamed “THAT’S IT?” at my phone. Seriously. The ending… that ending, yo. I wanted a more complete ending (I’m a greedy reader, I usually do want more from an ending). But after I processed and thought about the book as a whole, I don’t think there can be any other ending. Which makes me sad, but it’s the right fit for the book. I’m happy Kelley York ended MADE OF STARS the way she did, instead of adding on some fairy-tale happily ever after.
I know MADE OF STARS is a book I’m going to reread, and even though I know what happens, it’s still going to sucker punch me. For me, that’s the mark of good writing and incredible storytelling.
==
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews:
October 12, 2013
Review also posed at Ja čitam, a ti?
If I needed to describe this book using only few words it'd be full of surprises. Mostly because I had no idea what's this book about, but I have heard great things about Kelly York's writing so I wanted to get a full experience. I did accomplish that.
For one reason or another I though that this was actually a paranormal read when I get to read the book I understood that this was actually a contemporary story in it's finest. It's not a typical boy meets girl story where everything is great, it's more than that. Hunter and Ashlin are back to their dad's and they cannot wait to meet a boy who was a big part of their childhood. Chance was a boy with whom they had great adventures as kids. Only growing up they realized that many things about Chance were mystery. They didn't know his parents nor where he lives.
This story can basically be divided into two parts. The start when you get to meet the characters and try to connect all the details about Chance and after the accident when Chance's mother is dead and everything gets much darker. It was a huge change from one world to another and at moments I felt like some things later are happening too fast. I felt that there was more to the ending. I wish there was more.
Besides that all other elements of this story were really good. You could feel Hunter's doubts and his insecurity, while at the same time you admired Ashlin for being strong and probably the best sister Hunter could wish for. Chance was a bit unusual at the start but later when you get to meet his life your heart starts to ache for him.
I'm really glad that one important part of this story isn't revealed in the blurb. It really took me by surprise and made me understand this story better. It's a story about discovering yourself and finding your true self.
If I needed to describe this book using only few words it'd be full of surprises. Mostly because I had no idea what's this book about, but I have heard great things about Kelly York's writing so I wanted to get a full experience. I did accomplish that.
For one reason or another I though that this was actually a paranormal read when I get to read the book I understood that this was actually a contemporary story in it's finest. It's not a typical boy meets girl story where everything is great, it's more than that. Hunter and Ashlin are back to their dad's and they cannot wait to meet a boy who was a big part of their childhood. Chance was a boy with whom they had great adventures as kids. Only growing up they realized that many things about Chance were mystery. They didn't know his parents nor where he lives.
This story can basically be divided into two parts. The start when you get to meet the characters and try to connect all the details about Chance and after the accident when Chance's mother is dead and everything gets much darker. It was a huge change from one world to another and at moments I felt like some things later are happening too fast. I felt that there was more to the ending. I wish there was more.
Besides that all other elements of this story were really good. You could feel Hunter's doubts and his insecurity, while at the same time you admired Ashlin for being strong and probably the best sister Hunter could wish for. Chance was a bit unusual at the start but later when you get to meet his life your heart starts to ache for him.
I'm really glad that one important part of this story isn't revealed in the blurb. It really took me by surprise and made me understand this story better. It's a story about discovering yourself and finding your true self.
November 2, 2014
I really want to write an amazing review for this, it deserves one. It's such an astoundingly beautiful story that will stay with me for a long, long time. Forever, even (I took these characters to heart and, damnit, they're staying there!). Thing is, though, the words to describe the soul deep impact this had on me...I simply don't have em.
I got rather, um, expressive while reading this -much to my bloke's amusement (he doesn't understand). There also may have been some harsh words thrown at my Kindle when I turned that last page, slammed with the traumatising realisation it was all over. Even now, hours from finishing, I'm still reeling. Still feeling kinda raw. And teary, too.
It's quite some feat to break my heart and make me thankful for the painful experience, but Made of Stars pulled it off spectacularly.
Ashlin:
"It breaks my heart a little in the same way that it makes me smile. We're so close to a happy ending."
*Sigh*
I got rather, um, expressive while reading this -much to my bloke's amusement (he doesn't understand). There also may have been some harsh words thrown at my Kindle when I turned that last page, slammed with the traumatising realisation it was all over. Even now, hours from finishing, I'm still reeling. Still feeling kinda raw. And teary, too.
It's quite some feat to break my heart and make me thankful for the painful experience, but Made of Stars pulled it off spectacularly.
October 19, 2013
OMG! THAT'S where it ENDS?!?!?! I am FREAKING out! I NEED MORE! I will be reviewing this on my blog, and will update this once it's been posted.
UPDATE (from my blog)
When I finished this book, I literally had to pick my jaw up from the floor! These were the words I wrote immediately after finishing: OMG! THAT'S where it ENDS?!?!?! I am FREAKING out! I NEED MORE!
So let's just say...if you don't like unknowns or cliffhangers at the end of books, you might want to stay away from this one. :) This was a fantastic read, though, and you don't want to miss out on it!
Well my friends, this is not the first LGBT book I've read, but it is the first one I've reviewed on my blog. I'm not going to lie and say that I'm not nervous about the response. If this were 5 years ago, I might have been one of those readers who had a negative response. But between real life and the many, MANY books that I've read that have changed my life and point of view (including this one), not only did I personally enjoy this book, but I want to share it with everyone else!
This book has so many things going for it! Not only does it read like a suspense, but it is also a beautiful story about friendship, family and love. And to top it all off, it is EXTREMELY well written! Kelley York does a fantastic job of approaching tough topics, including abuse and sexuality.
The Jackson family is about as nontraditional as they come...Hunter and Ashlin are half-siblings, who also happen to be the same age. Even though they live across the country from one another, they have a fantastic relationship with each other, and with their dad. They each live with their respective mothers most of the year, but when they were growing up, they spent each summer together with their dad. And another permanent fixture of their summers was Chance. Chance is sort of a mystery. He always shows up alone and on foot. And he spends TONS of time with Hunter and Ashlin. But he also disappears for a day or two at a time, and sometimes he refuses to do activities like swimming. Despite Chance's quirks, Ashlin and Hunter are both in love with him, even if Hunter hasn't figured it out yet.
Then one summer Hunter and Ashlin's dad gets shot on duty with a major injury (he's a cop), and they end up only coming for extremely short trips over the next couple years. Now, Hunter and Ashlin have graduated from high school, and aren't sure what they want to do with their lives, so they both decide to live with their dad for the winter while they figure it out. At first, they're afraid that they won't see Chance, but once they find him, he shows up out of nowhere, just like he did when they were kids. And despite having a girlfriend, Hunter's feelings for Chance keep pushing their way into his thoughts. And even though Ashlin is also in love with Chance, she's starting to notice things about Chance and her brother that she didn't pay attention to when they were kids.
The fateful day that Chance's mom is found dead, Chance seems to disappear into thin air. Ashlin and Hunter know the truth now about what goes on in Chance's house, but now they need to prove that he's innocent, without incurring the wrath of Chance's father, or incriminating Chance or themselves...
I LOVE the development of the characters and plot! Even though Chance is strange, you can't help but fall in love with him too. And when you figure out all the bad things that have happened to him over the course of his life, you just want to wrap him up in your arms and make everything ok. And Ashlin and Hunter's dad is such an amazing secondary character. He cares so much about his kids, and Chance. He gives pretty good advice, but also allows his children to make mistakes, and discover things on their own. And he feels absolutely awful when he realizes what has been happening to Chance, and that he didn't figure it out himself. Ashlin is an amazing sister, and friend. She actually takes the time to put her own feelings aside for a little bit to figure out what is going on with her brother, and to try to help save Chance. And it is so amazing watching Hunter sort through his experiences and emotions. It isn't about whether or not he's gay. This story is truly about love, and the different kinds of love we have for the people in our lives.
I really, REALLY hope there is a sequel!!! Pretty please?
UPDATE (from my blog)
When I finished this book, I literally had to pick my jaw up from the floor! These were the words I wrote immediately after finishing: OMG! THAT'S where it ENDS?!?!?! I am FREAKING out! I NEED MORE!
So let's just say...if you don't like unknowns or cliffhangers at the end of books, you might want to stay away from this one. :) This was a fantastic read, though, and you don't want to miss out on it!
Well my friends, this is not the first LGBT book I've read, but it is the first one I've reviewed on my blog. I'm not going to lie and say that I'm not nervous about the response. If this were 5 years ago, I might have been one of those readers who had a negative response. But between real life and the many, MANY books that I've read that have changed my life and point of view (including this one), not only did I personally enjoy this book, but I want to share it with everyone else!
This book has so many things going for it! Not only does it read like a suspense, but it is also a beautiful story about friendship, family and love. And to top it all off, it is EXTREMELY well written! Kelley York does a fantastic job of approaching tough topics, including abuse and sexuality.
The Jackson family is about as nontraditional as they come...Hunter and Ashlin are half-siblings, who also happen to be the same age. Even though they live across the country from one another, they have a fantastic relationship with each other, and with their dad. They each live with their respective mothers most of the year, but when they were growing up, they spent each summer together with their dad. And another permanent fixture of their summers was Chance. Chance is sort of a mystery. He always shows up alone and on foot. And he spends TONS of time with Hunter and Ashlin. But he also disappears for a day or two at a time, and sometimes he refuses to do activities like swimming. Despite Chance's quirks, Ashlin and Hunter are both in love with him, even if Hunter hasn't figured it out yet.
Then one summer Hunter and Ashlin's dad gets shot on duty with a major injury (he's a cop), and they end up only coming for extremely short trips over the next couple years. Now, Hunter and Ashlin have graduated from high school, and aren't sure what they want to do with their lives, so they both decide to live with their dad for the winter while they figure it out. At first, they're afraid that they won't see Chance, but once they find him, he shows up out of nowhere, just like he did when they were kids. And despite having a girlfriend, Hunter's feelings for Chance keep pushing their way into his thoughts. And even though Ashlin is also in love with Chance, she's starting to notice things about Chance and her brother that she didn't pay attention to when they were kids.
The fateful day that Chance's mom is found dead, Chance seems to disappear into thin air. Ashlin and Hunter know the truth now about what goes on in Chance's house, but now they need to prove that he's innocent, without incurring the wrath of Chance's father, or incriminating Chance or themselves...
I LOVE the development of the characters and plot! Even though Chance is strange, you can't help but fall in love with him too. And when you figure out all the bad things that have happened to him over the course of his life, you just want to wrap him up in your arms and make everything ok. And Ashlin and Hunter's dad is such an amazing secondary character. He cares so much about his kids, and Chance. He gives pretty good advice, but also allows his children to make mistakes, and discover things on their own. And he feels absolutely awful when he realizes what has been happening to Chance, and that he didn't figure it out himself. Ashlin is an amazing sister, and friend. She actually takes the time to put her own feelings aside for a little bit to figure out what is going on with her brother, and to try to help save Chance. And it is so amazing watching Hunter sort through his experiences and emotions. It isn't about whether or not he's gay. This story is truly about love, and the different kinds of love we have for the people in our lives.
I really, REALLY hope there is a sequel!!! Pretty please?
July 14, 2014
Chance is a constant in the lives of half-siblings Ashlin and Hunter. For as long as they can remember, their quirky friend has been by their sides. They're a perfect group of three. The siblings are ecstatic when they come to their Dad's house for the first time in years, knowing that things will pick up where they left off. But they're older now, and Chance's lies don't quite add up. Hunter and Ash start to question why Chance hides so much from them when they're so close..... And then his mother is found dead. Can Ashlin and Hunter protect the boy they love forever, can they make his life okay for the first time?
-----
Wow. I just finished this, and I'm speechless. I need to finish this review while everything is still fresh in my mind and while I'm still emotionally traumatized. This book is incredible, from cover to cover.
Actually, I'd like to mention that first. Look at how beautiful the cover of this book is. It lures you in, effectively, but inside it is a barrage of heartbreak and feelings. So many feelings. You betray me, peaceful cover.
I had never read a book of Kelley York's before, but I know I will be reading them again in the future. Her writing is beautiful. Throughout this story, there's this underlying tone of sadness and false tranquility, of impending mental and emotional shattering. I knew from only a few pages in that this book would leave a scar on me, and I was correct. Yet, despite all this sadness, this book illustrates such beautiful love. Between friends, between siblings, between lovers. Part of what makes the love of these characters so real is the alternating perspectives of both Ash and Hunter. It was executed perfectly in this novel, and gave a better insight into the siblings' feelings towards Chance.
Oh god, Chance. The characters in this book were all likable in their own way, but Chance is by far my favorite. Possibly ever. He's so odd and quirky and broken and lovable and UGH I just want to give him a hug and feed him sandwiches. (Yes, I know he's fictional. Shut up.) His flaws added to his charm, and when he's together with Hunter? They're perfect. In a messed up, imperfect way. I know that doesn't make sense, but that's the great thing about love, isn't it? It doesn't have to make sense. It just IS.
I honestly thought my review copy was missing pages off the end. I wasn't expecting so abrupt of an ending, and that made my pain so much worse. I have not been so emotionally damaged by the end of a book since Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma.
A large part of why I liked this book is that love seems to have no boundaries. True, this book features a romance between two male characters. But that isn't the point of the book. There's no coming out scene, no hate. Ashlin loves Chance. Hunter loves Chance. Chance loves Hunter. It's just pure and simple love between humans.
I recommend this book to everyone, unless male/male romance is something that you're completely against. If not, this book is stunning. I really have no other words, and I hope that this review ends up being coherent. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go eat some chocolate and process and maybe watch something to brighten my mood.
Thank you to Netgalley and Entangled Teen for the chance to read this. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
-----
Wow. I just finished this, and I'm speechless. I need to finish this review while everything is still fresh in my mind and while I'm still emotionally traumatized. This book is incredible, from cover to cover.
Actually, I'd like to mention that first. Look at how beautiful the cover of this book is. It lures you in, effectively, but inside it is a barrage of heartbreak and feelings. So many feelings. You betray me, peaceful cover.
I had never read a book of Kelley York's before, but I know I will be reading them again in the future. Her writing is beautiful. Throughout this story, there's this underlying tone of sadness and false tranquility, of impending mental and emotional shattering. I knew from only a few pages in that this book would leave a scar on me, and I was correct. Yet, despite all this sadness, this book illustrates such beautiful love. Between friends, between siblings, between lovers. Part of what makes the love of these characters so real is the alternating perspectives of both Ash and Hunter. It was executed perfectly in this novel, and gave a better insight into the siblings' feelings towards Chance.
Oh god, Chance. The characters in this book were all likable in their own way, but Chance is by far my favorite. Possibly ever. He's so odd and quirky and broken and lovable and UGH I just want to give him a hug and feed him sandwiches. (Yes, I know he's fictional. Shut up.) His flaws added to his charm, and when he's together with Hunter? They're perfect. In a messed up, imperfect way. I know that doesn't make sense, but that's the great thing about love, isn't it? It doesn't have to make sense. It just IS.
I honestly thought my review copy was missing pages off the end. I wasn't expecting so abrupt of an ending, and that made my pain so much worse. I have not been so emotionally damaged by the end of a book since Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma.
A large part of why I liked this book is that love seems to have no boundaries. True, this book features a romance between two male characters. But that isn't the point of the book. There's no coming out scene, no hate. Ashlin loves Chance. Hunter loves Chance. Chance loves Hunter. It's just pure and simple love between humans.
I recommend this book to everyone, unless male/male romance is something that you're completely against. If not, this book is stunning. I really have no other words, and I hope that this review ends up being coherent. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go eat some chocolate and process and maybe watch something to brighten my mood.
Thank you to Netgalley and Entangled Teen for the chance to read this. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
October 3, 2013
*Thank you Entangled Teen for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
It’s… wow.
Made of Stars impressed me beyond words. I never thought I would come to love this book so much, but God did it affect me. I am still lost in Kelley York’s words and in her intriguing characters.
Hunter and Ashlin are these great half siblings, who love each other no matter what. They have different personalities, but in the long run, they are good and supporting for each other. While Hunter is this quiet thoughtful guy, Ashlin is more expressive and good with words. They decide to come back home and live with their dad after graduation to help around his time of need and of course, to reunite themselves with their best friend from childhood, Chance.
That is what astounded me the most, their big affection for Chance. I mean, they LOVED this boy. He was this person so essential to their lives. He had this way of entrancing you, to need him there to feel complete, just like Hunter and Ashlin did. His secrets though were always setting off my trust alarms. But then he would appear and I would forget everything and go willingly wherever he would take us. That is Chance.
Oh, I was constantly surprised. Mid through the story I tried to stop guessing, I never came even close to how everything would turn out, though I always knew the romance aisle of this story would be GLBT, and let me tell you, it was absolutely beautiful.
I am torn about how it ends, it’s unexpected and unfair. It’s bittersweet and, despite not being what I wanted it to be, I really can’t think of a better way of how it could have ended because this book is the real deal. It’s not the fall-into-place-perfectly kind of read. It is raw and tormenting, yet at the same time, hopeful and hauntingly fascinating.
I try without success to not think about it, I’m certainly stunned and heartbroken. I’m mystified and at the point where I ask myself why I like to inflict torture in my life. I have the urge to plaster stars into my ceiling, gather many dragon figurines and head out the freeway looking for a way to reach him. Really, it’s quite hard to describe all the feels, you just have to read this book and see for yourself what I mean.
P.S. You can also find this review at Book Travels book blog where it was posted first.*
It’s… wow.
Made of Stars impressed me beyond words. I never thought I would come to love this book so much, but God did it affect me. I am still lost in Kelley York’s words and in her intriguing characters.
Hunter and Ashlin are these great half siblings, who love each other no matter what. They have different personalities, but in the long run, they are good and supporting for each other. While Hunter is this quiet thoughtful guy, Ashlin is more expressive and good with words. They decide to come back home and live with their dad after graduation to help around his time of need and of course, to reunite themselves with their best friend from childhood, Chance.
That is what astounded me the most, their big affection for Chance. I mean, they LOVED this boy. He was this person so essential to their lives. He had this way of entrancing you, to need him there to feel complete, just like Hunter and Ashlin did. His secrets though were always setting off my trust alarms. But then he would appear and I would forget everything and go willingly wherever he would take us. That is Chance.
Oh, I was constantly surprised. Mid through the story I tried to stop guessing, I never came even close to how everything would turn out, though I always knew the romance aisle of this story would be GLBT, and let me tell you, it was absolutely beautiful.
I am torn about how it ends, it’s unexpected and unfair. It’s bittersweet and, despite not being what I wanted it to be, I really can’t think of a better way of how it could have ended because this book is the real deal. It’s not the fall-into-place-perfectly kind of read. It is raw and tormenting, yet at the same time, hopeful and hauntingly fascinating.
I try without success to not think about it, I’m certainly stunned and heartbroken. I’m mystified and at the point where I ask myself why I like to inflict torture in my life. I have the urge to plaster stars into my ceiling, gather many dragon figurines and head out the freeway looking for a way to reach him. Really, it’s quite hard to describe all the feels, you just have to read this book and see for yourself what I mean.
P.S. You can also find this review at Book Travels book blog where it was posted first.*
September 27, 2013
This is intense and absorbing. It starts out pretty much as a typical YA... teenage half-siblings hanging out for the summer break where they get to spend all their time with their elusive mate Chance. But of course things have to change. Their father is shot, which puts a halt to the extended visits and once he recovers, Hunter and Ash come back during winter.Once the three teenagers have been fairly well established, the novels turns into a suspenseful mystery.
Both Hunter and Ash have narrative points of view. They both are half in love with Chance but are very much aware of the chameleon that he is. They know very little about him, and the second part of the novel deals with Chance's dark secrets and his attraction to the steady, protective Hunter.
This is tight and confident writing. The air of mystery is well developed and the disaster looming ahead is foreshadowed by a creepy New Year's Eve visit to an abandoned island.
Oh, and as all the bad stuff happened, and Chance's terrible life is revealed, I wished, oh I wished it would revert back to a simple YA where kids are taught lessons and all is redeemed and lessons are learned and there's hope and even happiness.
But it didn't. And that was realistic, and to be expected. And everything will be ok. Probably.
Well written. Super creepy and suspenseful. Tender coming-of-age love story. Highly recommended.
Copy provided by publisher via netgalley and received with thanks. Due out on October 1st 2013.
Both Hunter and Ash have narrative points of view. They both are half in love with Chance but are very much aware of the chameleon that he is. They know very little about him, and the second part of the novel deals with Chance's dark secrets and his attraction to the steady, protective Hunter.
This is tight and confident writing. The air of mystery is well developed and the disaster looming ahead is foreshadowed by a creepy New Year's Eve visit to an abandoned island.
Oh, and as all the bad stuff happened, and Chance's terrible life is revealed, I wished, oh I wished it would revert back to a simple YA where kids are taught lessons and all is redeemed and lessons are learned and there's hope and even happiness.
But it didn't. And that was realistic, and to be expected. And everything will be ok. Probably.
Well written. Super creepy and suspenseful. Tender coming-of-age love story. Highly recommended.
Copy provided by publisher via netgalley and received with thanks. Due out on October 1st 2013.
November 20, 2014
It's out today!!! If you love haunting, captivating, amazing books, then this is for you!! Plus, it's LGBT.
Exciting news this week for MADE OF STARS. It just sold to Random House Germany AND it's a Junior Library Guild selection!!! I have so much love for this book and for Chance. <3
Exciting news this week for MADE OF STARS. It just sold to Random House Germany AND it's a Junior Library Guild selection!!! I have so much love for this book and for Chance. <3
May 3, 2016
[CHRONIQUE] Une très jolie histoire que je vous recommande !
==> https://moody-takeabook.com/2016/05/0...
==> https://moody-takeabook.com/2016/05/0...
July 21, 2018
Kelley York, Kelley York, Kelley York. You don't love a book, you love how the author manipulated you into reading it.
I loved Hushed so much and that's why I'm on a mission to read every single writing for Kelley York, I loved how she weaved a world building of murder and mystery inside a LGBT community, how she takes stereotypes out of her characters and just rarely mention the word "gay" or "lesbian" she just present her character as they are and this is more reason to love them.
Made of Stars is a book about three teenagers, two of which are siblings and the third is a mysterious, broken boy who captivated them at first sight. The story begins in November when Ashlin and Hunter visited their father and met Chance, starting to hang out every summer of their visit, but then things take a mysterious twist, secrets, bruises and tattoos that weren't there.
The characters are so loved that I felt so protective over them once I finished the book, I wanted to know more and for them to stay more.
All in all, it was such an enjoyable read and actually I recommend reading Hushed first.
I loved Hushed so much and that's why I'm on a mission to read every single writing for Kelley York, I loved how she weaved a world building of murder and mystery inside a LGBT community, how she takes stereotypes out of her characters and just rarely mention the word "gay" or "lesbian" she just present her character as they are and this is more reason to love them.
Made of Stars is a book about three teenagers, two of which are siblings and the third is a mysterious, broken boy who captivated them at first sight. The story begins in November when Ashlin and Hunter visited their father and met Chance, starting to hang out every summer of their visit, but then things take a mysterious twist, secrets, bruises and tattoos that weren't there.
The characters are so loved that I felt so protective over them once I finished the book, I wanted to know more and for them to stay more.
All in all, it was such an enjoyable read and actually I recommend reading Hushed first.
January 12, 2023
F’in hell! Ouch! The end is brutal but I loved the journey.
Unread books on my Kindle: 83
Unread books on my Kindle: 83
January 17, 2015
I love Kelley York. I've loved her since Suicide Watch and I also adored her book Hushed, so when I saw this one and read the blurb, I knew I'd have to read it. It sounded like it would be my thing and it was. It was an awesome YA.
The only issue I have is the ending. But at the same time, I actually sort of liked the ending. It's strange. I normally like happy endings or some sort of closure, but this left me screaming and wanting more. But there's no confirmed sequel... So you see my problem. Still, there's something about the way this book ended that didn't really take from my overall enjoyment of the book. This just wasn't my favorite from her, hence the 4 stars instead of 5.
I'll definitely read more from her in the future and I'm really looking forward to it!
The only issue I have is the ending. But at the same time, I actually sort of liked the ending. It's strange. I normally like happy endings or some sort of closure, but this left me screaming and wanting more. But there's no confirmed sequel... So you see my problem. Still, there's something about the way this book ended that didn't really take from my overall enjoyment of the book. This just wasn't my favorite from her, hence the 4 stars instead of 5.
I'll definitely read more from her in the future and I'm really looking forward to it!
August 23, 2013
York has done it again with a beautiful, true-to-life story that grips you by the heart and doesn't let go--even AFTER it's over. A must read!
May 24, 2016
nah, son.
it took character A (who had a pov) almost half the book to realise they liked character B, while all characters C (who also had their own pov, that served no purpose for half the book, because it was reduced to their observing characters A and B) and D did were wondering what the hell went on between characters A and B. (yes, this is confusing, but I'm trying to make it non-spoilery, appreciate my efforts yo.) now, I love relationships that develop slowly and realistically. that's cool. kudos for that. the problem is that not much else went on in the book while all these characters were trying to figure out who had the hots for who(m? I don't like Englishyes I do).
the way the two siblings' mothers were treated made me uncomfortable. even when their dad screwed up, they were all "but he does his best!", but when it came to their mothers, their tolerance level dropped to zero. I mean, at some point Ashlin admits sometimes she wants to strangle hers. I myself have some awful fights with my mom. but never in my life have I felt the urge to strangle her, as figuratively as Ashlin might've meant it.
or when Ashlin tells us she enjoys going grocery shopping for her father more than she does for her mother, because, when it comes to her dad, she wants to do it, but in her mom's case, she [the mother] is just being lazy and Ashlin is forced to do the thing. like wow how dare your parents feel tired sometimes or something, and then ask you to do some chores, right? like idk maybe if Ashlin's backstory and relationship with her mom had been more developed, I could've at least understood where she was coming from. but they weren't. and I couldn't.
Hunter's mom - I get it. but Ashlin's? neh.
anyway. little details like that just made me cringe throughout the book.
()
and while I definitely despised character B's (no spoilers, huh) mother (), as a victim of abuse, she hasn't been treated fairly by the author either. it was all "how can she let her husband do this and that", and that was realistic, I guess, seeing how this book is told from two teenagers' persective. but if an author's gonna go there, I expect them to develop and analyze the subject way better than it was done in this book.
the MCs were pretty cool, though. I only read one other book by Kelley York (Suicide Watch), and while I definitely liked it more than this one, the MCs in here were just as nicely written, overall realistic and likeable. though in this book they sounded a bit too similar. (then again, there's no dual pov in Suicide Watch.)
I know a lot of people had an issue with the ending. personally, it didn't bother me that much. that is, the *open ending* side of it didn't bother me much. as far as open endings go, I've seen worse (try reading You. just you try). but as a whole, some parts just didn't ring true or logical to me. ()
err it was an okay read overall. very quick (I had to take a few days break because of work, but the book can easily be finished in a few hours) and easy to get into, which is something I like about York's writing style. but, eventually, it just failed to impress me. 2.5/5, maybe.
ETA: I've been thinking about it, and you know what? the open ending does bother me a bit. because it's not open enough, if I may say so. so, to me, this is not really an open ending; the book just ended in the middle of nowhere. I mean, idk, to me an open ending means that the ending brings so many possibilities, the likelihood of each of them happening being equal (okay wow was that English?), that there's just no way to expand the story any further unless the author writes a second book about it, you see what I mean? and this is not it.
it took character A (who had a pov) almost half the book to realise they liked character B, while all characters C (who also had their own pov, that served no purpose for half the book, because it was reduced to their observing characters A and B) and D did were wondering what the hell went on between characters A and B. (yes, this is confusing, but I'm trying to make it non-spoilery, appreciate my efforts yo.) now, I love relationships that develop slowly and realistically. that's cool. kudos for that. the problem is that not much else went on in the book while all these characters were trying to figure out who had the hots for who(m? I don't like English
the way the two siblings' mothers were treated made me uncomfortable. even when their dad screwed up, they were all "but he does his best!", but when it came to their mothers, their tolerance level dropped to zero. I mean, at some point Ashlin admits sometimes she wants to strangle hers. I myself have some awful fights with my mom. but never in my life have I felt the urge to strangle her, as figuratively as Ashlin might've meant it.
or when Ashlin tells us she enjoys going grocery shopping for her father more than she does for her mother, because, when it comes to her dad, she wants to do it, but in her mom's case, she [the mother] is just being lazy and Ashlin is forced to do the thing. like wow how dare your parents feel tired sometimes or something, and then ask you to do some chores, right? like idk maybe if Ashlin's backstory and relationship with her mom had been more developed, I could've at least understood where she was coming from. but they weren't. and I couldn't.
Hunter's mom - I get it. but Ashlin's? neh.
anyway. little details like that just made me cringe throughout the book.
()
and while I definitely despised character B's (no spoilers, huh) mother (), as a victim of abuse, she hasn't been treated fairly by the author either. it was all "how can she let her husband do this and that", and that was realistic, I guess, seeing how this book is told from two teenagers' persective. but if an author's gonna go there, I expect them to develop and analyze the subject way better than it was done in this book.
the MCs were pretty cool, though. I only read one other book by Kelley York (Suicide Watch), and while I definitely liked it more than this one, the MCs in here were just as nicely written, overall realistic and likeable. though in this book they sounded a bit too similar. (then again, there's no dual pov in Suicide Watch.)
I know a lot of people had an issue with the ending. personally, it didn't bother me that much. that is, the *open ending* side of it didn't bother me much. as far as open endings go, I've seen worse (try reading You. just you try). but as a whole, some parts just didn't ring true or logical to me. ()
err it was an okay read overall. very quick (I had to take a few days break because of work, but the book can easily be finished in a few hours) and easy to get into, which is something I like about York's writing style. but, eventually, it just failed to impress me. 2.5/5, maybe.
ETA: I've been thinking about it, and you know what? the open ending does bother me a bit. because it's not open enough, if I may say so. so, to me, this is not really an open ending; the book just ended in the middle of nowhere. I mean, idk, to me an open ending means that the ending brings so many possibilities, the likelihood of each of them happening being equal (okay wow was that English?), that there's just no way to expand the story any further unless the author writes a second book about it, you see what I mean? and this is not it.
October 2, 2013
"That's the sort of person Chance is.
He gets under your skin, and even when he's gone, you still feel him there like a dull ache.
A warm memory you can never quite reclaim."
Made of Stars is a book that is part mystery, part coming of age romance. The first half of the story read like any good coming of age tale where boy meets girl, girl falls helplessly for boy, boy could care less etc....and in that regard I loved the story. It was fluffy and romantic and I loved the playfulness of it all. Then comes the second half and the story takes on a much darker tone. It was suspenseful, it was filled with raw emotion and my heart broke for the characters I had come to love and know in the first half. Alone both parts were good but together it was just so tragic.
One of my favorite things about Made of Stars was the dual narration. Instead of just seeing Hunter or Ashlin's perspective we get to know both siblings quite well. While I liked them both equally they do not compare to my love for Chance. He's such a complex and delightfully written character, he's like an onion whose layers are just waiting to be uncovered and explored. I loved his relationship with Hunter and Ashlin but most of all I just loved him. He was beautiful and broken all wrapped up in one. I wanted to protect him and I wanted him to receive his moment after all the sh*t he suffers through. Sadly, this was not to be and for that I feel gutted and broken.
Another thing I loved was the writing. It flowed off the page and kept me engaged from beginning to end. With just a sigh or a glance I knew how the characters were feeling because I felt it as well.
Lastly, I really like the romance. It's always refreshing to see an Author not afraid to bend the rules when it comes to young adult pairings. Hunter's "awakening" is gradual but done tastefully. I think the Author realistically portrayed how it might be for someone in Hunter's situation (all American Jock with a smokin hot girlfriend) to realize that they might actually love someone whose the same sex as themselves.
Now while I really did like Made Of Stars it did have a few flaws that kept me from really falling in love with the story. First off I don't really like how disjointed the first and second half felt. It almost felt like I was reading two separate books mashed together instead of one cohesive story. My second gripe is the ending. I felt the book had more story to tell and then it just sort of cuts off. Of course it only does this after leaving all the characters heartbroken and dealing with the events that transpired during the last part of the story. It was a downer and I didn't like that one bit.
Final Thoughts
Made of Stars is a beautifully written book that had me in near tears come the end. While the cohesiveness of the story didn't always work for me, I did really like it as a whole. I would suggest reading the story if only to meet Chance. He's really one of my favorite characters of late and I would love to see him again at some point. He deserves his HEA damnit. I want to leave this review with a lyric from Adele's Make You Feel My Love. I believe it perfectly sums up how I feel about Made of Stars and these characters.
When the evening shadows
And the stars appear
And there is no - one there
To dry your tears
I could hold you
For a million years
To make you feel my love
With that being said, I will be rating Made of Stars by Kelley York ★★★★.
Reviewed originally @Blood,Sweat and Books
*Copy provided by Netgalley. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated in an which way for providing them.
He gets under your skin, and even when he's gone, you still feel him there like a dull ache.
A warm memory you can never quite reclaim."
Made of Stars is a book that is part mystery, part coming of age romance. The first half of the story read like any good coming of age tale where boy meets girl, girl falls helplessly for boy, boy could care less etc....and in that regard I loved the story. It was fluffy and romantic and I loved the playfulness of it all. Then comes the second half and the story takes on a much darker tone. It was suspenseful, it was filled with raw emotion and my heart broke for the characters I had come to love and know in the first half. Alone both parts were good but together it was just so tragic.
One of my favorite things about Made of Stars was the dual narration. Instead of just seeing Hunter or Ashlin's perspective we get to know both siblings quite well. While I liked them both equally they do not compare to my love for Chance. He's such a complex and delightfully written character, he's like an onion whose layers are just waiting to be uncovered and explored. I loved his relationship with Hunter and Ashlin but most of all I just loved him. He was beautiful and broken all wrapped up in one. I wanted to protect him and I wanted him to receive his moment after all the sh*t he suffers through. Sadly, this was not to be and for that I feel gutted and broken.
Another thing I loved was the writing. It flowed off the page and kept me engaged from beginning to end. With just a sigh or a glance I knew how the characters were feeling because I felt it as well.
Lastly, I really like the romance. It's always refreshing to see an Author not afraid to bend the rules when it comes to young adult pairings. Hunter's "awakening" is gradual but done tastefully. I think the Author realistically portrayed how it might be for someone in Hunter's situation (all American Jock with a smokin hot girlfriend) to realize that they might actually love someone whose the same sex as themselves.
Now while I really did like Made Of Stars it did have a few flaws that kept me from really falling in love with the story. First off I don't really like how disjointed the first and second half felt. It almost felt like I was reading two separate books mashed together instead of one cohesive story. My second gripe is the ending. I felt the book had more story to tell and then it just sort of cuts off. Of course it only does this after leaving all the characters heartbroken and dealing with the events that transpired during the last part of the story. It was a downer and I didn't like that one bit.
Final Thoughts
Made of Stars is a beautifully written book that had me in near tears come the end. While the cohesiveness of the story didn't always work for me, I did really like it as a whole. I would suggest reading the story if only to meet Chance. He's really one of my favorite characters of late and I would love to see him again at some point. He deserves his HEA damnit. I want to leave this review with a lyric from Adele's Make You Feel My Love. I believe it perfectly sums up how I feel about Made of Stars and these characters.
When the evening shadows
And the stars appear
And there is no - one there
To dry your tears
I could hold you
For a million years
To make you feel my love
With that being said, I will be rating Made of Stars by Kelley York ★★★★.
Reviewed originally @Blood,Sweat and Books
*Copy provided by Netgalley. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated in an which way for providing them.
September 24, 2013
Actual rating is 4.5
I remember reading Kelley York’s Hushed last year and really liking the ominous quality of the writing. When I started Made of Stars I was looking for more of that and I got it in droves. On the surface this is a dark story full of abuse, tension and even murder but underneath it really is a beautiful story with one of the most interesting romances I have read in a long time.
We get this story in the alternating POV’s of half siblings Hunter and Ashlin. Since they were little they would look forward to their summers when they would get to be together as they spent their time at their father’s house. One summer they meet Chance and he slowly works his way into their lives and becomes a staple of their summers as well. From the moment we meet Chance the story really becomes one about him and it’s easy to see that his life isn’t exactly what he says it is. He tells tales of his parents traveling for work all the time and whisking him away on random vacations to different parts of the world. But when he comes back from these “vacations” he won’t take off his shirt to go swimming with them, then there was that summer that he had the broken arm from “falling.”
We catch up with these three as Ash and Hunter have just finished high school and in light of having not seen their father in two years they each decide to take a year off to spend with him rather than head straight to college. Their time there becomes the time in their life that everything changes. Chance’s real life comes to light and the situation is much more dire than anyone could have imagined. They also start to face their feelings for one another. This is the part of the story that gave me ALL of the feels. Hunter has been in a relationship for just over a year with his girlfriend Rachael, but as soon as he sees Chance he begins to question the relationship. This is not an authentic romance by any means, much of the story is spent with Hunter questioning why he feels the way that he does for Chance. Watching him open up to the possibility of wanting Chance to be his boyfriend was beautiful. He struggles with where the line is between friend and love interest and it’s written so very well. I was rooting for these two more than I have rooted for any couple in a book in a very long time.
The one small complaint that I can speak of in this novel is that I think the POV’s were a bit too alike. Sure I knew who I was reading about because of the name at the header of each chapter but had that not been there, I think it would have all felt as if it was written from one person’s perspective. Speaking to that aspect of the story I do have to say that we get one chapter from another person’s POV and I think that section was written superbly. I literally had chills running up and down my spine while I read it and felt the distinction in that person’s voice incredibly clearly. Despite my small quibble with the distinction between POV’s this is a novel that I highly recommend to anyone who loves their stories with some LGBT themes, sweet romance and even a touch of mystery. Kelley York knows how to fully engross her reader in a story because she creates characters that truly jump off the page.
An Advanced Reader's Copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
--
You can read all of my reviews at Alluring Reads.
I remember reading Kelley York’s Hushed last year and really liking the ominous quality of the writing. When I started Made of Stars I was looking for more of that and I got it in droves. On the surface this is a dark story full of abuse, tension and even murder but underneath it really is a beautiful story with one of the most interesting romances I have read in a long time.
We get this story in the alternating POV’s of half siblings Hunter and Ashlin. Since they were little they would look forward to their summers when they would get to be together as they spent their time at their father’s house. One summer they meet Chance and he slowly works his way into their lives and becomes a staple of their summers as well. From the moment we meet Chance the story really becomes one about him and it’s easy to see that his life isn’t exactly what he says it is. He tells tales of his parents traveling for work all the time and whisking him away on random vacations to different parts of the world. But when he comes back from these “vacations” he won’t take off his shirt to go swimming with them, then there was that summer that he had the broken arm from “falling.”
We catch up with these three as Ash and Hunter have just finished high school and in light of having not seen their father in two years they each decide to take a year off to spend with him rather than head straight to college. Their time there becomes the time in their life that everything changes. Chance’s real life comes to light and the situation is much more dire than anyone could have imagined. They also start to face their feelings for one another. This is the part of the story that gave me ALL of the feels. Hunter has been in a relationship for just over a year with his girlfriend Rachael, but as soon as he sees Chance he begins to question the relationship. This is not an authentic romance by any means, much of the story is spent with Hunter questioning why he feels the way that he does for Chance. Watching him open up to the possibility of wanting Chance to be his boyfriend was beautiful. He struggles with where the line is between friend and love interest and it’s written so very well. I was rooting for these two more than I have rooted for any couple in a book in a very long time.
The one small complaint that I can speak of in this novel is that I think the POV’s were a bit too alike. Sure I knew who I was reading about because of the name at the header of each chapter but had that not been there, I think it would have all felt as if it was written from one person’s perspective. Speaking to that aspect of the story I do have to say that we get one chapter from another person’s POV and I think that section was written superbly. I literally had chills running up and down my spine while I read it and felt the distinction in that person’s voice incredibly clearly. Despite my small quibble with the distinction between POV’s this is a novel that I highly recommend to anyone who loves their stories with some LGBT themes, sweet romance and even a touch of mystery. Kelley York knows how to fully engross her reader in a story because she creates characters that truly jump off the page.
An Advanced Reader's Copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
--
You can read all of my reviews at Alluring Reads.
October 21, 2013
Ten-Second Review: A heartbreaking, dark story that is brilliantly told with Kelley York’s raw way of writing. I think I might have a new favorite writer.
More-Than-Ten-Second Review:
This might sound dramatic but if you had to compare Made of Stars to anything, anything in the universe, I would compare it to the stars in the sky. I really would. Made of Stars is a story that burns brightly and full of hopeful light, but then it flicker away into a story that will drop your heart onto the ground and shatter it. Kelley York’s raw writing has created such a gorgeous and heartbreaking book…
Kelley York is an author whose books I had found out about purely by accident. Now, I consider that accident to be one of the best things to ever happen to me. Her stories are honest, raw, sad, and heartbreaking. And with Made of Stars, her third novel, I couldn’t help but be, yet again, astonished by the beauty of her writing.
“We’re all made of stars,” he agrees. “We burn bright, then we flicker away.”
Made of Stars is told through the POVs of Hunter and Ashlin, half-siblings who have, over many summers, both become close to a boy named Chance, a kid who has always made their summers awesome. But, one winter, Hunter and Ash realize that Chance is keeping secrets and the warning signs that the two have been overlooking in order to keep things “perfect” are now flashing stronger and stronger.
Sad and terrible things happen in this book, and York wrote them beautifully and with emotion. Made of Stars is sometimes wrenching to read, but it was written with love and care. In the times my heart cracked because something sad happened, I was convinced that York’s heart was cracking when she wrote that moment too, because it was written with so much true and genuine emotion.
Creating characters is York’s strength, and in Made of Stars, she creates amazing characters that will stay in my heart. Her characters are people that you could really just find one day while walking through a store. They are just so well-written, so real, and I identified with them so much. And you will want to cry for them and hug them, because what they are going through is just so horrible.
The ending of Made of Stars caught me completely off guard and, truth be told, struck me absolutely speechless. It was completely different than the endings York usually writes. She executed this seemingly small, but very powerful change, beautifully. I loved it and hated it the sad, slightly twisted ending.
Another little something: The way York writes and portrays LGBT characters is brilliant and, I believe, very realistic. The best example of what she is able to do is right here in Made of Stars, with Hunter’s struggling to understand his feelings for Chance and how it fits in with his life.
Made of Stars is yet another amazing, beautiful novel written by Kelley York. It’s my favorite out of the three novels she has published, Suicide Watch and Hushed being the other ones. I can’t love Made of Stars more than I already do. Highly recommended… Just be sure to have some tissues ready.
More-Than-Ten-Second Review:
This might sound dramatic but if you had to compare Made of Stars to anything, anything in the universe, I would compare it to the stars in the sky. I really would. Made of Stars is a story that burns brightly and full of hopeful light, but then it flicker away into a story that will drop your heart onto the ground and shatter it. Kelley York’s raw writing has created such a gorgeous and heartbreaking book…
Kelley York is an author whose books I had found out about purely by accident. Now, I consider that accident to be one of the best things to ever happen to me. Her stories are honest, raw, sad, and heartbreaking. And with Made of Stars, her third novel, I couldn’t help but be, yet again, astonished by the beauty of her writing.
“We’re all made of stars,” he agrees. “We burn bright, then we flicker away.”
Made of Stars is told through the POVs of Hunter and Ashlin, half-siblings who have, over many summers, both become close to a boy named Chance, a kid who has always made their summers awesome. But, one winter, Hunter and Ash realize that Chance is keeping secrets and the warning signs that the two have been overlooking in order to keep things “perfect” are now flashing stronger and stronger.
Sad and terrible things happen in this book, and York wrote them beautifully and with emotion. Made of Stars is sometimes wrenching to read, but it was written with love and care. In the times my heart cracked because something sad happened, I was convinced that York’s heart was cracking when she wrote that moment too, because it was written with so much true and genuine emotion.
Creating characters is York’s strength, and in Made of Stars, she creates amazing characters that will stay in my heart. Her characters are people that you could really just find one day while walking through a store. They are just so well-written, so real, and I identified with them so much. And you will want to cry for them and hug them, because what they are going through is just so horrible.
The ending of Made of Stars caught me completely off guard and, truth be told, struck me absolutely speechless. It was completely different than the endings York usually writes. She executed this seemingly small, but very powerful change, beautifully. I loved it and hated it the sad, slightly twisted ending.
Another little something: The way York writes and portrays LGBT characters is brilliant and, I believe, very realistic. The best example of what she is able to do is right here in Made of Stars, with Hunter’s struggling to understand his feelings for Chance and how it fits in with his life.
Made of Stars is yet another amazing, beautiful novel written by Kelley York. It’s my favorite out of the three novels she has published, Suicide Watch and Hushed being the other ones. I can’t love Made of Stars more than I already do. Highly recommended… Just be sure to have some tissues ready.
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