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Crawford #1
My Heart for Yours
For Tobin and Delia, everything was always equal.
A bargain, a trade, a deal to be struck.
A kiss for a kiss.
Your shirt for mine.
Break my heart, I’ll break yours.
Their disastrous split was no different. Tobin’s spent the last year pretending Delia never existed, and Delia’s been in D.C., pretending to be anything but the country girl that she is.
When tragedy brings her back to town, Tobin and Delia realize that time apart hasn't healed either one of them. But staying away from each other is harder than they imagined, especially in small town Louisiana, and old feelings are quickly brought back to the surface.
In the mess they’ve created, is there anything to be salvaged of a love that they both thought would be forever?
A bargain, a trade, a deal to be struck.
A kiss for a kiss.
Your shirt for mine.
Break my heart, I’ll break yours.
Their disastrous split was no different. Tobin’s spent the last year pretending Delia never existed, and Delia’s been in D.C., pretending to be anything but the country girl that she is.
When tragedy brings her back to town, Tobin and Delia realize that time apart hasn't healed either one of them. But staying away from each other is harder than they imagined, especially in small town Louisiana, and old feelings are quickly brought back to the surface.
In the mess they’ve created, is there anything to be salvaged of a love that they both thought would be forever?
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2012
76 people are currently reading
4826 people want to read
About the author
Steph Campbell
34 books1,139 followersMom.
Wife.
YA Author.
So Cal Native.
Bayou Transplant.
Reluctant Texan.
I hate shows with laugh tracks.
Wife.
YA Author.
So Cal Native.
Bayou Transplant.
Reluctant Texan.
I hate shows with laugh tracks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 267 reviews
April 6, 2012
This book was really different for me.
We set it in small-town Louisiana, which was SO much fun, and I also love to work with other authors - especially ones with the mad-talent of Stephanie Campbell.
I wrote Delia's POV, and love her to pieces. I also wrote quite a few poems for this book, which was fun. I got my start writing poetry and songs, so it was great to go back to that.
This is a story of for-real true love. Hope you like :-D
We set it in small-town Louisiana, which was SO much fun, and I also love to work with other authors - especially ones with the mad-talent of Stephanie Campbell.
I wrote Delia's POV, and love her to pieces. I also wrote quite a few poems for this book, which was fun. I got my start writing poetry and songs, so it was great to go back to that.
This is a story of for-real true love. Hope you like :-D
January 3, 2013
3.5 stars
A second chance love story that starts off with a horrible tragedy that brings Delia home to Tobin, a year has passed since they split and within a week, we relive their romance with flashbacks and conversations they have that caused two hearts to break. They were two soul-mates who found each other too young.
Tobin, there isn’t much to say, wrong side of the tracks kinda guy with a big heart. You couldn't help but feel for the guy with a broken heart. Delia, now, she made me want to scream, she was such a frustrating character with no freakin back bone. The only time we saw a fire in her was when she was fighting with Tobin, but when it comes to her Dad or Weston, she couldn't even speak. She couldn’t walk without a crutch until 85% of the book…
Even with the ending, I think I only cracked a really small smile, the book had me feeling down and forgot to pick me back up.
"TOGETHER
They were friends
Who traded
Shirts for shirts
Hands for hands
Lies for lies
Mistakes for more
When white turned black
And black turned grey
It changed
Truths for truths
Hearts for hearts
Souls for souls
Lives for life"
A second chance love story that starts off with a horrible tragedy that brings Delia home to Tobin, a year has passed since they split and within a week, we relive their romance with flashbacks and conversations they have that caused two hearts to break. They were two soul-mates who found each other too young.
” Always a trade. Always a compromise. Until there wasn’t anything left to bargain with, because neither of us had any idea what to do.”
Tobin, there isn’t much to say, wrong side of the tracks kinda guy with a big heart. You couldn't help but feel for the guy with a broken heart. Delia, now, she made me want to scream, she was such a frustrating character with no freakin back bone. The only time we saw a fire in her was when she was fighting with Tobin, but when it comes to her Dad or Weston, she couldn't even speak. She couldn’t walk without a crutch until 85% of the book…
Even with the ending, I think I only cracked a really small smile, the book had me feeling down and forgot to pick me back up.
May 12, 2012
"Though nothing can bring back the hour,
Of splendor in the grass,
Of glory in the flower,
We will grieve not, rather find
Strength in what reminds behind."
This humane, tender, poetic and moving book reminded me of these lines by William Wordsworth. It's a different kind of storytelling, in a way, since almost every event of significance has already happened when our story begins. This is about what happens after. Tobin and Delia, from the Montagues and Capulets of Crawford, Louisiana, have already met, broken each other's hearts and gone their separate ways. Irretrievably? You're sure gonna hope not, because they are both so charming, so kind and sensitive, and their passion and protectiveness of each other is so affecting and believable that you won't want their fears and pride to keep them in their self-imposed exile from each other. But it's hard for red solo cups and champagne flutes to mingle in the same social circles, even without a meanly ambitious politician dad doing his doggonest to spill their precious contents.
Here are just a few of the elements of this book that really drew me into its world:
To begin with, it's beautifully written, and wonderfully evocative of the vibe, color and feel of small town Louisiana: "Every building in town looks like the trees want to swallow them up. There's a tint of rust on everything metal, and it's all smaller and more worn than I remember," muses Delia on her return from the sharp-edged, made up and super polished D.C. political scene that she's been unwillingly thrust into by her father's election, just as she's about to begin her senior year. The small Louisiana town and the down to earth ways of Tobin's family are really brought to life, and Delia's powerful attraction to them seems completely understandable.
The characters are another really appealing element. Tobin and Delia are both realistically flawed, not super selfless, strong and supportive all the time. Balls are dropped and some decisions are made (or not made) out of weaknesses and fear, rather than the way a fantasy super teen might handle things. It's pretty real feeling that way, and it makes it all the more heartwrenching and relatable. It's awfully hard not to fall in love with Delia. Her sweet nature, her love of poetry and her attachment to her grandmother all contribute to a portrait of a charming, vulnerable but brave girl who is just about overwhelmed by harsh circumstances and a really sad family situation. Tobin is also a sweet guy (sorry, Tobin, I always fall for the girl in these books) who's also unable to cope with the challenges their circumstances throw at them, but isn't willing to give up, despite the mistakes he's made. I guess my one quibble would be that Delia's dad, the villain of the piece, is so creepy that he almost becomes a caricature of the hypocritical right-wing southern pol. The other side characters add color and move the plot along. Delia's new "boyfriend" is an especially worthy addition, adding weight and consequences to the choices it seems Delia must face.
This is a sweet, sometimes melancholy, kind of meditatively paced story. The resolution ripens rather than rushes, and the characters, their growth and recognition of what's worth fighting for are the focus as the past is revealed and a path to healing and moving on begins to appear possible. I really enjoyed it, and I'm pretty confident you will too!
Of splendor in the grass,
Of glory in the flower,
We will grieve not, rather find
Strength in what reminds behind."
This humane, tender, poetic and moving book reminded me of these lines by William Wordsworth. It's a different kind of storytelling, in a way, since almost every event of significance has already happened when our story begins. This is about what happens after. Tobin and Delia, from the Montagues and Capulets of Crawford, Louisiana, have already met, broken each other's hearts and gone their separate ways. Irretrievably? You're sure gonna hope not, because they are both so charming, so kind and sensitive, and their passion and protectiveness of each other is so affecting and believable that you won't want their fears and pride to keep them in their self-imposed exile from each other. But it's hard for red solo cups and champagne flutes to mingle in the same social circles, even without a meanly ambitious politician dad doing his doggonest to spill their precious contents.
Here are just a few of the elements of this book that really drew me into its world:
To begin with, it's beautifully written, and wonderfully evocative of the vibe, color and feel of small town Louisiana: "Every building in town looks like the trees want to swallow them up. There's a tint of rust on everything metal, and it's all smaller and more worn than I remember," muses Delia on her return from the sharp-edged, made up and super polished D.C. political scene that she's been unwillingly thrust into by her father's election, just as she's about to begin her senior year. The small Louisiana town and the down to earth ways of Tobin's family are really brought to life, and Delia's powerful attraction to them seems completely understandable.
The characters are another really appealing element. Tobin and Delia are both realistically flawed, not super selfless, strong and supportive all the time. Balls are dropped and some decisions are made (or not made) out of weaknesses and fear, rather than the way a fantasy super teen might handle things. It's pretty real feeling that way, and it makes it all the more heartwrenching and relatable. It's awfully hard not to fall in love with Delia. Her sweet nature, her love of poetry and her attachment to her grandmother all contribute to a portrait of a charming, vulnerable but brave girl who is just about overwhelmed by harsh circumstances and a really sad family situation. Tobin is also a sweet guy (sorry, Tobin, I always fall for the girl in these books) who's also unable to cope with the challenges their circumstances throw at them, but isn't willing to give up, despite the mistakes he's made. I guess my one quibble would be that Delia's dad, the villain of the piece, is so creepy that he almost becomes a caricature of the hypocritical right-wing southern pol. The other side characters add color and move the plot along. Delia's new "boyfriend" is an especially worthy addition, adding weight and consequences to the choices it seems Delia must face.
This is a sweet, sometimes melancholy, kind of meditatively paced story. The resolution ripens rather than rushes, and the characters, their growth and recognition of what's worth fighting for are the focus as the past is revealed and a path to healing and moving on begins to appear possible. I really enjoyed it, and I'm pretty confident you will too!
May 8, 2012
What an amazing story! I mean, OMG! Let me tell you that I hadn't even begun the book and the excitement of reading it was just flowing through me.
What I loved most about this book is the awesome plot line. Normally, I don't like point of view switches especially if they are not done well. The way both authors wrote each point of view it flowed so well together like peanut butter and jelly. It is so smooth, you aren't lost. You don't loose information either. Instead, with each switch, the reader gains so much more insight on the characters emotions and thoughts.
I think the best part of the story is the story itself. A love between two people torn apart by society and rules, the reader immediately falls into the cheering on the couple from page number one. I loved reading each page getting closer to a union coming together that blows your mind away. And let me tell you it did.
What I adored about the story is the fight for their love. They fought against their parents, siblings, friends, etc, all telling them they could never make it. I like that, that stood up for each other. And finally end the end, they make a decision for themselves and no one else. Bravo!
If you want a tale of beautiful friendship that leads to a heart-breakingly tale, read this story. A pure of heart love story, it never fails to capture the reader. My Heart For Yours is a romance that can be appreciated and read over and over again. A spectacular written novel, My Heart For Yours is wonderful!
What I loved most about this book is the awesome plot line. Normally, I don't like point of view switches especially if they are not done well. The way both authors wrote each point of view it flowed so well together like peanut butter and jelly. It is so smooth, you aren't lost. You don't loose information either. Instead, with each switch, the reader gains so much more insight on the characters emotions and thoughts.
I think the best part of the story is the story itself. A love between two people torn apart by society and rules, the reader immediately falls into the cheering on the couple from page number one. I loved reading each page getting closer to a union coming together that blows your mind away. And let me tell you it did.
What I adored about the story is the fight for their love. They fought against their parents, siblings, friends, etc, all telling them they could never make it. I like that, that stood up for each other. And finally end the end, they make a decision for themselves and no one else. Bravo!
If you want a tale of beautiful friendship that leads to a heart-breakingly tale, read this story. A pure of heart love story, it never fails to capture the reader. My Heart For Yours is a romance that can be appreciated and read over and over again. A spectacular written novel, My Heart For Yours is wonderful!
October 24, 2012
To this day, this book is my favorite love story that I've written.
May 4, 2012
Before I get started, let's take a moment to admire the kick ass cover and title of this book. No really, take a moment...
Now let's discuss the inside of the book; it was so incredibly close to four stars. So close you can see that extra star hanging on the edge for dear life. Most of you readers will pull that little guy up (may even pull up his friend). In the end I didn't, but I for sure didn't flick him off either!
This book takes you on an emotional ride from start to finish. One aspect I loved was the plot tease. It reminded me of early Jennifer Echols novels where she dangles a huge piece of the plot in front of the reader; one that isn't revealed until over half-way through the book. We know something huge has happened, we just don't know what the hell it is! As much as we love to deny it; everyone loves a good tease!! Plus the story builds and builds upon the readers emotions where you get to the point you're about to burst; you can barely stand it. Even though I love that feeling, it made the ending seem a little anti-climactic.
This book was also loaded with flashbacks. It was like flashbacks on steroids! I really enjoyed them, but sometimes would get confused if I was living in the past or present. I had to back track in my reading to get re-oriented. That might say more about my mental development or lack there of more than it does about the writing...oops ;-)
Now for a little personal shout-out!! The book frickin mentions the Molly Ringwalds. HOLY HOT HELL!! Best 80's cover band in the history of ever!! I've seen them play a ton of times and almost gave this book infinite stars just for mentioning them. Sorry to let that crash my review, but it had to be said!
Overall, this is a good read; awesome romantic tension, plenty of drama and heartache. Hell for $0.99, I'd buy three! It even rides the fence on being a new adult/YA-mature novel. Delila just graduated high school and Tobin is several years older. That being said, since it was a little "older" I would have loved to see a little more heat and passion! OKAY! OKAY! I wanted more sex! Wait, did I just say that out loud?? Anyway, don't get me wrong you will get your naked fix (I did say that out loud), but I think Kristen Ashley and E.L. James have forever ruined me. Okay, forget everything I just said and go read the book!
Now let's discuss the inside of the book; it was so incredibly close to four stars. So close you can see that extra star hanging on the edge for dear life. Most of you readers will pull that little guy up (may even pull up his friend). In the end I didn't, but I for sure didn't flick him off either!
This book takes you on an emotional ride from start to finish. One aspect I loved was the plot tease. It reminded me of early Jennifer Echols novels where she dangles a huge piece of the plot in front of the reader; one that isn't revealed until over half-way through the book. We know something huge has happened, we just don't know what the hell it is! As much as we love to deny it; everyone loves a good tease!! Plus the story builds and builds upon the readers emotions where you get to the point you're about to burst; you can barely stand it. Even though I love that feeling, it made the ending seem a little anti-climactic.
This book was also loaded with flashbacks. It was like flashbacks on steroids! I really enjoyed them, but sometimes would get confused if I was living in the past or present. I had to back track in my reading to get re-oriented. That might say more about my mental development or lack there of more than it does about the writing...oops ;-)
Now for a little personal shout-out!! The book frickin mentions the Molly Ringwalds. HOLY HOT HELL!! Best 80's cover band in the history of ever!! I've seen them play a ton of times and almost gave this book infinite stars just for mentioning them. Sorry to let that crash my review, but it had to be said!
Overall, this is a good read; awesome romantic tension, plenty of drama and heartache. Hell for $0.99, I'd buy three! It even rides the fence on being a new adult/YA-mature novel. Delila just graduated high school and Tobin is several years older. That being said, since it was a little "older" I would have loved to see a little more heat and passion! OKAY! OKAY! I wanted more sex! Wait, did I just say that out loud?? Anyway, don't get me wrong you will get your naked fix (I did say that out loud), but I think Kristen Ashley and E.L. James have forever ruined me. Okay, forget everything I just said and go read the book!
August 29, 2012
This book has gently wrapped me up in its warmth. It felt like a lazy summer drive through a small southern town. There are so many good books waiting to be read, and even great ones. But anytime I find myself immersed in a great one, I simply marvel and literally want to dance from the simple joy of having discovered yet another gem. That's what this books is to me, a little gem. Some books come on fast and furious. Others dark and stormy. But this one? This one was gentle almost like faint whispering from three doors down where you find yourself concentrating almost holding your breath for fear of missing a softly spoken word. I think that's what I loved the most, this quiet intonation. The gentle storytelling using only the necessary words to convey the thought, express the emotion, squeeze your heart, constrict your throat, evoke your tears, suspend your breath.
This book evoked such tender feelings from me as I read along its pages, following each of the two main character's lives and emotions as they looked back upon their relationship. I truly enjoyed the rhythmic pace of the storytelling and the sprinkled poetry at the beginning of Delia's chapters. The alternating POV between Delia and Tobin worked well in putting together a heartfelt story of first loves, grave losses, inner strengths, and human weaknesses. These two authors created such wonderfully real characters in Delia, Tobin and Eamon. I think that aside from an interesting story, character depth is the most important component in a book. Usually books that have both make the reading more like an actual experience, like the story is playing out right before you making you feel the book itself. That's what reading this book was like for me. Both Jolene Perry and Steph Campbell have officially joined my list of favorite authors. I will endeavor to read everything they write for surely I want to continue experiencing their books.
This book evoked such tender feelings from me as I read along its pages, following each of the two main character's lives and emotions as they looked back upon their relationship. I truly enjoyed the rhythmic pace of the storytelling and the sprinkled poetry at the beginning of Delia's chapters. The alternating POV between Delia and Tobin worked well in putting together a heartfelt story of first loves, grave losses, inner strengths, and human weaknesses. These two authors created such wonderfully real characters in Delia, Tobin and Eamon. I think that aside from an interesting story, character depth is the most important component in a book. Usually books that have both make the reading more like an actual experience, like the story is playing out right before you making you feel the book itself. That's what reading this book was like for me. Both Jolene Perry and Steph Campbell have officially joined my list of favorite authors. I will endeavor to read everything they write for surely I want to continue experiencing their books.
September 27, 2012
Delia is coming back home to Louisiana from D.C. for the first time in a year. The first time she will see Tobin again will be at the funeral for his brother, Eamon. Through alternating POVs and flashbacks we see how Delia and Tobin fell in love, and how it all fell apart. Each author wrote a different POV and I was really amazed how well they meshed together. Also sometimes I really hate flashbacks because I get confused but the writing flowed perfectly. I loved seeing how they met and fell in love and then wondering how it ended up here now.
Delia never could stand up to her father. As a politician he immediately hated Tobin wanting better for his daughter and I felt like he was their biggest obstacle. Even a year later, he still doesn't want her hanging out with Tobin. Delia has a new boyfriend who is a politician's son and who understands Delia's new life. But Delia doesn't really like her new life. Coming home gets her to face it. That she does not want to end up like her mom, very unhappily married. That she wants to be the girl she was with Tobin.
At first I didn't like Tobin and blamed him for the relationship falling apart. I wondered why Tobin wouldn't have a long distance relationship or fight the move harder. But I soon learned it does take two. Tobin, while sweet and willing to fight for Delia, did not handle some things as well as he should have. When Delia needed him he was scared and left her alone to deal with it. Tobin was a romantic at heart and I felt really bad for him while he relived the memories of Delia moving and them breaking up.
Eamon was a huge part of the story. Tobin's brother had lived hard and died young. Tobin and Delia both continue to remember him and he was a pivotal part in their relationship and in the possible future of their relationship. Some of their memories really brought tears to my eyes. While Eamon always thought Delia would break Tobin's heart, when Delia needed him, Eamon had been there for her. This was a very emotional story about looking back and learning to move on and also taking second chances.
"My heart for yours," he offers.
"Deal."
"The problem with passion is it goes both ways. Love/Hate. The line between those two is a lot thinner than I thought."
Delia never could stand up to her father. As a politician he immediately hated Tobin wanting better for his daughter and I felt like he was their biggest obstacle. Even a year later, he still doesn't want her hanging out with Tobin. Delia has a new boyfriend who is a politician's son and who understands Delia's new life. But Delia doesn't really like her new life. Coming home gets her to face it. That she does not want to end up like her mom, very unhappily married. That she wants to be the girl she was with Tobin.
At first I didn't like Tobin and blamed him for the relationship falling apart. I wondered why Tobin wouldn't have a long distance relationship or fight the move harder. But I soon learned it does take two. Tobin, while sweet and willing to fight for Delia, did not handle some things as well as he should have. When Delia needed him he was scared and left her alone to deal with it. Tobin was a romantic at heart and I felt really bad for him while he relived the memories of Delia moving and them breaking up.
Eamon was a huge part of the story. Tobin's brother had lived hard and died young. Tobin and Delia both continue to remember him and he was a pivotal part in their relationship and in the possible future of their relationship. Some of their memories really brought tears to my eyes. While Eamon always thought Delia would break Tobin's heart, when Delia needed him, Eamon had been there for her. This was a very emotional story about looking back and learning to move on and also taking second chances.
"My heart for yours," he offers.
"Deal."
"The problem with passion is it goes both ways. Love/Hate. The line between those two is a lot thinner than I thought."
May 1, 2012
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS AT READING, EATING AND DREAMING I WAS BLAIR WALDORF
"Every piece of the mess that I am makes me smile." - Taken from My Heart for Yours
Tobin and Delia dated each other in high school. They came from different worlds, but they were the perfect match. They were extremely happy together. They were very much in love.
But along the way, Tobin and Delia fell apart.
After a year apart, Tobin and Delia are brought back into each other's lives. Can they find their way back into each others arms after everything they have been through? Or will their past heartbreak keep them from a future?
I just finished reading My Heart for Yours by Jolene B. Perry and Stephanie Campbell, and now I am sitting here, trying to put into words all of the things that made this novel REMARKABLE.
First off, this novel is written by two splendid authors. Prior to this novel, I had the pleasure of reading The Next Door Boys by Jolene B. Perry and Grounding Quinn by Stephanie Campbell. I'd already had wonderful experiences with both authors so I was really looking forward to reading something that was created by their joint effort. Honestly, I had pretty high expectations going into this novel, and in the end, My Heart for Yours surpassed all of them.
The first word that comes to mind when I think about this story is lyrical. Everything in this novel, from the authors writing styles, to the poetry, to the story, to the actual characters, was stunning. Everything came together in perfect harmony.
Another fabulous thing about this story is that both of the main characters are a little flawed. They BOTH made mistakes in the past; neither one of them was totally innocent. I really appreciate characters with flaws. Nobody is perfect. Therefore, perfect characters aren't realistic. In my opinion, Tobin and Delia are realistically created characters that young adults can relate to. Honestly, the reason their past relationship fell apart was because they were both too young to handle all of the obstacles that life threw at them. Crap, Delia's dad alone would have been a lot to handle, and he wasn't even their only obstacle. In my opinion, the characters handled their past and present selves realistically.
Another great thing about this novel is that it's told from both Tobin and Delia's perspectives. Through flashbacks and in current time, I discovered who the characters were and who they are now. I learned about the characters history as they recalled the major events from their past: their first date, their first kiss, their first time getting caught sneaking out, their first fight, the first time they said "I love you", and the first time they made love. Their past helped me understand how much they matured.
This isn't a happy, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy, but it's not a dark and depressing novel either. It falls somewhere in the middle, and it has a little bit of everything! There were definitely moments that made me laugh and smile, but I also got riled up and teary-eyed. Overall, this story touched on a wide array of my emotions.
Did I mention that this book takes place down south in Louisiana?! Woo hoo! I think this was one of few books that did the south justice. More often than not, authors make the mistake of overdoing the southern drawl and the southern charm which comes across as over the top and cheesy. In my opinion, Ms. Perry and Ms. Campbell did a wonderful job representing the south. They used a little bit of southern drawl here and there, but it was extremely realistic. It was perfect; it wasn't over the top or cheesy!
I gave My Heart for Yours by Jolene B. Perry and Stephanie Campbell 4 STARS (4.5 STARS). This is a phenomenal young adult romance novel about real life and real love. I strongly recommend this novel.
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
"Every piece of the mess that I am makes me smile." - Taken from My Heart for Yours
Tobin and Delia dated each other in high school. They came from different worlds, but they were the perfect match. They were extremely happy together. They were very much in love.
But along the way, Tobin and Delia fell apart.
After a year apart, Tobin and Delia are brought back into each other's lives. Can they find their way back into each others arms after everything they have been through? Or will their past heartbreak keep them from a future?
I just finished reading My Heart for Yours by Jolene B. Perry and Stephanie Campbell, and now I am sitting here, trying to put into words all of the things that made this novel REMARKABLE.
First off, this novel is written by two splendid authors. Prior to this novel, I had the pleasure of reading The Next Door Boys by Jolene B. Perry and Grounding Quinn by Stephanie Campbell. I'd already had wonderful experiences with both authors so I was really looking forward to reading something that was created by their joint effort. Honestly, I had pretty high expectations going into this novel, and in the end, My Heart for Yours surpassed all of them.
The first word that comes to mind when I think about this story is lyrical. Everything in this novel, from the authors writing styles, to the poetry, to the story, to the actual characters, was stunning. Everything came together in perfect harmony.
Another fabulous thing about this story is that both of the main characters are a little flawed. They BOTH made mistakes in the past; neither one of them was totally innocent. I really appreciate characters with flaws. Nobody is perfect. Therefore, perfect characters aren't realistic. In my opinion, Tobin and Delia are realistically created characters that young adults can relate to. Honestly, the reason their past relationship fell apart was because they were both too young to handle all of the obstacles that life threw at them. Crap, Delia's dad alone would have been a lot to handle, and he wasn't even their only obstacle. In my opinion, the characters handled their past and present selves realistically.
Another great thing about this novel is that it's told from both Tobin and Delia's perspectives. Through flashbacks and in current time, I discovered who the characters were and who they are now. I learned about the characters history as they recalled the major events from their past: their first date, their first kiss, their first time getting caught sneaking out, their first fight, the first time they said "I love you", and the first time they made love. Their past helped me understand how much they matured.
This isn't a happy, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy, but it's not a dark and depressing novel either. It falls somewhere in the middle, and it has a little bit of everything! There were definitely moments that made me laugh and smile, but I also got riled up and teary-eyed. Overall, this story touched on a wide array of my emotions.
Did I mention that this book takes place down south in Louisiana?! Woo hoo! I think this was one of few books that did the south justice. More often than not, authors make the mistake of overdoing the southern drawl and the southern charm which comes across as over the top and cheesy. In my opinion, Ms. Perry and Ms. Campbell did a wonderful job representing the south. They used a little bit of southern drawl here and there, but it was extremely realistic. It was perfect; it wasn't over the top or cheesy!
I gave My Heart for Yours by Jolene B. Perry and Stephanie Campbell 4 STARS (4.5 STARS). This is a phenomenal young adult romance novel about real life and real love. I strongly recommend this novel.
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
May 8, 2012
Truly loved this book. Loved the alternating POVs...both Delia and Tobin were so endearing. Excellent pacing and wonderful use of flashbacks. Great teaming of two authors...will be reading more from both of them! Well done!
May 8, 2012
I loved this bok so much I have started reading it again a day after I first finished it!
This is the first work I've read from either Jolene Perry or Stephanie Campbell. I loved both of their styles of writing a lot so I will definitely read more of their work soon.
Tobin and Delia used to date but all that ended disastrously when Delia moved away with her family. Now she's back in her home town after a tragedy has happened there. They've not seen each other in a year and have been trying to move on and forget each other. As soon as they see each other again everything from their past comes back to them and has them questioning their feelings and all that's happened between them.
Can they move on and get on with their lives as they have been for the past year? Is there anything still between them? Can they forgive and forget all that's gone on? Can Delia escape from her controlling dad and have the life she wants for herself and not the life he dictates?
I'm really struggling to review this amazing book without giving anything away so all I can say is that you have to read this book. It's beautifully written and had me shedding a few tears many times throughout the chapters. I found it hard to put down once I'd started it and in the end I just read and read until I'd finished in the early hours of the morning. Then later that day I picked it up to read again!
This is the first work I've read from either Jolene Perry or Stephanie Campbell. I loved both of their styles of writing a lot so I will definitely read more of their work soon.
Tobin and Delia used to date but all that ended disastrously when Delia moved away with her family. Now she's back in her home town after a tragedy has happened there. They've not seen each other in a year and have been trying to move on and forget each other. As soon as they see each other again everything from their past comes back to them and has them questioning their feelings and all that's happened between them.
Can they move on and get on with their lives as they have been for the past year? Is there anything still between them? Can they forgive and forget all that's gone on? Can Delia escape from her controlling dad and have the life she wants for herself and not the life he dictates?
I'm really struggling to review this amazing book without giving anything away so all I can say is that you have to read this book. It's beautifully written and had me shedding a few tears many times throughout the chapters. I found it hard to put down once I'd started it and in the end I just read and read until I'd finished in the early hours of the morning. Then later that day I picked it up to read again!
May 10, 2012
I loved this book. Tobin was a keeper. The plot line was simple, but still able to keep me clicking forward on my Kindle. I really enjoyed reading from both perspectives. The writing style was fluid. Overall, I'd definitely recommend!
September 28, 2014
My heart or yours... What a great story about loss, first loves, true love and second chances.
June 11, 2012
There once was a girl with two faces.
Two hearts
Two lives
But the more she lived in the pretend life
The more it became her real one
And the less she thought about her real life
The more it became her pretend one.
***
Delia and Tobin get involved in a deep, emotional and intense relationship. Her father, a U.S. Senator who disapproves of their relationship, decides to move the family to Washington D.C. in the hopes of breaking them up. Delia and Tobin are determined to stay together no matter what, but soon after she moves the distance between them emotionally is bigger than the physical distance between them and their relationship falls apart. Delia completely changes to what her father wants her to be and she starts dating Weston, someone who her father approves of because of his political connections. Meanwhile, Tobin has been trying his best to forget all about Delia and is convinced that he will never have to see her again. After a year apart, a tragedy brings Delia back to her old hometown to attend the funeral of Eamon, Tobin’s older brother. When she sees Tobin again, she is conflicted by her emotions of anger, hurt and love. She tries to talk to him, but they can’t seem to get past the pain between them. Just when it seems like they might be able to recover as friends, Delia’s father shows up and brings along her boyfriend Weston. Once again, Delia starts letting her controlling father intimidate her.
The story is told in alternating POV’s of Tobin (written by Stephanie Campbell) and Delia (written by Jolene Perry). It jumps from the present to the past, starting from when they first met to the moment where everything fell apart. We get glimpses of them falling in the past and again in the present. Delia annoyed me sometimes because I wish she would just stand up to her father, but at the same time I understood her fears about him and jumping into a relationship with Tobin again. Once she lets loose and starts acting like her old self, I really liked her. Tobin’s character was so perfectly written. He was devastated and heartbroken by the death of his brother, who he was very close to and seeing Delia again isn’t making things any easier for him. Especially seeing her with her new boyfriend. All he really wants is to have his old Delia back, but will she finally stand up for herself or will she go running back with her dad again? And will they be able to let go of the past and move on and learn to trust each other again?
Jolene Perry and Stephanie Campbell have created a beautiful and heartbreaking story about love, forgiveness and finding yourself. Although the writing alternates POV's and jumps from past to present, it's easy to follow along and the writing meshes beautifully. Honestly, if I hadn't known that two authors wrote this book, I would have never guessed it. I picked up this book because Nyrae Dawn recommended it on her blog and the beautiful cover and title immediately caught my attention. Their love story reminded me a little bit about Noah and Allie from The Notebook, their love was so strong that it was able to withstand time, distance and all the pain between them. Another character that I really loved was Eamon. Although he was dead since the beginning of the book, we read a lot about him from both Delia and Tobin's flashbacks. Make sure to grab some tissues for this one because it's definitely a gut-wrenching tearjerker!
4.5 out of 5 sparkly stars!
Some of my favorite non-spoiler quotes from My Heart For Yours:
-His eyes are the same. His voice is the same. It's the sameness, and the newness and the differences and all the stuff between us-the good, the bad, the horrible and the selfish. The last two were mostly me. Then came the anger part-that was mostly him. And now? Now I'm just a girl messing with his head in a way he doesn't deserve.
-I still don’t know if Tobin’s just a part of this place, or more a part of me than I realized. Either way, his name brings equal amounts of pain and something I don’t understand.
-“Is she really worth all this trouble, bro?”
I nod. She was worth it for me, but I wondered sometimes if I was worth it for her.
-“Did it ever occur to you that you should have stood up to him yourself? Make the people around you feel like they’re worth it! Worth something!”
-Forgiving someone is a scary thing, because you have to trust that you won’t be hurt again, and I hope we’re there. Or will be soon
Two hearts
Two lives
But the more she lived in the pretend life
The more it became her real one
And the less she thought about her real life
The more it became her pretend one.
***
Delia and Tobin get involved in a deep, emotional and intense relationship. Her father, a U.S. Senator who disapproves of their relationship, decides to move the family to Washington D.C. in the hopes of breaking them up. Delia and Tobin are determined to stay together no matter what, but soon after she moves the distance between them emotionally is bigger than the physical distance between them and their relationship falls apart. Delia completely changes to what her father wants her to be and she starts dating Weston, someone who her father approves of because of his political connections. Meanwhile, Tobin has been trying his best to forget all about Delia and is convinced that he will never have to see her again. After a year apart, a tragedy brings Delia back to her old hometown to attend the funeral of Eamon, Tobin’s older brother. When she sees Tobin again, she is conflicted by her emotions of anger, hurt and love. She tries to talk to him, but they can’t seem to get past the pain between them. Just when it seems like they might be able to recover as friends, Delia’s father shows up and brings along her boyfriend Weston. Once again, Delia starts letting her controlling father intimidate her.
The story is told in alternating POV’s of Tobin (written by Stephanie Campbell) and Delia (written by Jolene Perry). It jumps from the present to the past, starting from when they first met to the moment where everything fell apart. We get glimpses of them falling in the past and again in the present. Delia annoyed me sometimes because I wish she would just stand up to her father, but at the same time I understood her fears about him and jumping into a relationship with Tobin again. Once she lets loose and starts acting like her old self, I really liked her. Tobin’s character was so perfectly written. He was devastated and heartbroken by the death of his brother, who he was very close to and seeing Delia again isn’t making things any easier for him. Especially seeing her with her new boyfriend. All he really wants is to have his old Delia back, but will she finally stand up for herself or will she go running back with her dad again? And will they be able to let go of the past and move on and learn to trust each other again?
Jolene Perry and Stephanie Campbell have created a beautiful and heartbreaking story about love, forgiveness and finding yourself. Although the writing alternates POV's and jumps from past to present, it's easy to follow along and the writing meshes beautifully. Honestly, if I hadn't known that two authors wrote this book, I would have never guessed it. I picked up this book because Nyrae Dawn recommended it on her blog and the beautiful cover and title immediately caught my attention. Their love story reminded me a little bit about Noah and Allie from The Notebook, their love was so strong that it was able to withstand time, distance and all the pain between them. Another character that I really loved was Eamon. Although he was dead since the beginning of the book, we read a lot about him from both Delia and Tobin's flashbacks. Make sure to grab some tissues for this one because it's definitely a gut-wrenching tearjerker!
4.5 out of 5 sparkly stars!
Some of my favorite non-spoiler quotes from My Heart For Yours:
-His eyes are the same. His voice is the same. It's the sameness, and the newness and the differences and all the stuff between us-the good, the bad, the horrible and the selfish. The last two were mostly me. Then came the anger part-that was mostly him. And now? Now I'm just a girl messing with his head in a way he doesn't deserve.
-I still don’t know if Tobin’s just a part of this place, or more a part of me than I realized. Either way, his name brings equal amounts of pain and something I don’t understand.
-“Is she really worth all this trouble, bro?”
I nod. She was worth it for me, but I wondered sometimes if I was worth it for her.
-“Did it ever occur to you that you should have stood up to him yourself? Make the people around you feel like they’re worth it! Worth something!”
-Forgiving someone is a scary thing, because you have to trust that you won’t be hurt again, and I hope we’re there. Or will be soon
May 7, 2012
My Heart for Yours is definitely one of those books you have to read when you are in the mood for something a little deeper than the typical boy meets girl, they fall in love, have some difficulty and then end up happily ever after type books. It dealt with death, difficult parents, and everlasting love.
My last two reviews were on books that started fast but then let me down as I continued to read. This book, like them, went right into the story line but did not let me down! It pulled on my heart-strings, made me a little angry but left me feeling very happy (I love roller coasters!).
The book begins as Tobin is grieving the loss of his brother, with whom he was very close. He did not expect to see Delia at the funeral as she had moved to D.C. with her parents when her father became a Senator. I could instantly feel the tension between the two and became curious as to what had caused it. The book did a great job of alternating between present time (the whole story takes place over a weekend) and the past to show how they got to this point.
The chapters alternate from being told by Tobin and Delia. I really like it for this book because I could get two view points on different situations; the hard part was knowing that misunderstandings existed between the two and wanting to shout them out at them! While I originally thought they had broken up solely due to her move, I later found out that there is another emotional twist to the story…In other words, it just kept getting better!
I felt bad for Delia stuck between who she wants to be and what her Senator father wants her to be. And Tobin, he was a swoon worthy individual but I was a little angry with him when I found out the second thing that had come between him and Delia. He is just lucky he was so darn sweet! I had to forgive him!
I loved this great, emotional, quick read!
My last two reviews were on books that started fast but then let me down as I continued to read. This book, like them, went right into the story line but did not let me down! It pulled on my heart-strings, made me a little angry but left me feeling very happy (I love roller coasters!).
The book begins as Tobin is grieving the loss of his brother, with whom he was very close. He did not expect to see Delia at the funeral as she had moved to D.C. with her parents when her father became a Senator. I could instantly feel the tension between the two and became curious as to what had caused it. The book did a great job of alternating between present time (the whole story takes place over a weekend) and the past to show how they got to this point.
The chapters alternate from being told by Tobin and Delia. I really like it for this book because I could get two view points on different situations; the hard part was knowing that misunderstandings existed between the two and wanting to shout them out at them! While I originally thought they had broken up solely due to her move, I later found out that there is another emotional twist to the story…In other words, it just kept getting better!
I felt bad for Delia stuck between who she wants to be and what her Senator father wants her to be. And Tobin, he was a swoon worthy individual but I was a little angry with him when I found out the second thing that had come between him and Delia. He is just lucky he was so darn sweet! I had to forgive him!
I loved this great, emotional, quick read!
May 10, 2012
Definitely one of my new favorites. I looved this book!!! This is the first time I've really judged a book by its cover and luckily I was right. I've been waiting for this book to be released since I saw the title, which describes this book perfectly.
This book is told in the POV of both characters Tobin and Delia. This story is about two people from different backgrounds who were in love but grew apart following events that forced their relationship to change. They are brought back together 1 year later to face the anger and heartache they caused one another after a tragedy occurs in their hometown.
There is a lot of depth to this story but it's straight to the point and it will make you laugh and cry.
This book is told in the POV of both characters Tobin and Delia. This story is about two people from different backgrounds who were in love but grew apart following events that forced their relationship to change. They are brought back together 1 year later to face the anger and heartache they caused one another after a tragedy occurs in their hometown.
There is a lot of depth to this story but it's straight to the point and it will make you laugh and cry.
January 15, 2013
Before I decided to hand "My Heart for Yours" 2 stars, I was giving a lot of thought since the story was pretty good. However I didn't like how I felt when I read it. I felt gloomy which (in my opinion) was the main purpose of this book but for me, it seemed too much. The narrators were mature enough. But I still had one huge problem toward “My Heart for Yours” ... it was lack of dialogues. The characters rarely spoke to each other and that the kind of thing that made me think this book was too much longer than it should be. I was bored (sometimes their feeling didn't quite reach me), felt sleepy, and couldn't find anything that was interesting enough to keep my eyes open. So, that sum up all I thought about "My Heart for Yours."
October 11, 2012
Gosh what a heartfelt emotional ride of young forever love. I am so glad my sister in law recommended I read this book. The love between Delia and Tobin just goes to show you that love no matter the circumstances might just be all that you need in the end. I kinda had this story pegged and there wasn't any twists and turns that shocked me, it was a very emotional straight forward read and I loved the relaxed ease of the read. I highly recommend this book for anyone who needs a good refresher on what love should be like
December 11, 2012
For Tobin and Delia, everything was always equal.
A bargain, a trade, a deal to be struck.
A kiss for a kiss.
Your shirt for mine.
Break my heart, I’ll break yours.
Their disastrous split was no different. Tobin’s spent the last year pretending Delia never existed, and Delia’s been in D.C., pretending to be anything but the country girl that she is.
When tragedy brings her back to town, Tobin and Delia realize that time apart hasn't healed either one of them. But staying away from each other is harder than they imagined, especially in small town Louisiana, and old feelings are quickly brought back to the surface. In the mess they’ve created, is there anything to be salvaged of a love that they both thought would be forever?
Rating: 3.5
This short, sweet, coming of age book was a nice quick read after a long weekend. It may not be the longest book, but the emotions definitely run deep and the characters are very likable! It's filled with plenty of love, loss, and heartache... Kind of your typical YA (Young Adult) story, and at times (well most of the time) I wished it wasn't so YA. There is a lot of emotional and angsty build up, but it didn't fully deliver for me in the romance category.
“A kiss for a kiss.
Your shirt for mine.
Break my heart, I’ll break yours.”
Some things that I did really enjoy about this book was the alternating POVs and flashbacks. Because the book is written from both Delia and Tobin's perspectives you really got a chance to understand both sides of their story (and I found myself going back and forth on whose side I was on). I also liked how the story jumps between present and past to relive the moments that defined their relationship most. You learn all about how they fell in love and what ultimately tore them apart.
“The problem with passion is it goes both ways. Love/Hate. The line between those two is a lot thinner than I thought.”
Probably the coolest thing about this book was the fact that the alternating narratives were written by the two different authors, with Perry doing Delia’s part and Campbell writing Tobin’s. Both writing styles meshed perfectly, but it gave the two characters distinctly different voices.
All in all it was a sweet book and a nice quick read. Did it give me the book hangover I usually crave?? No. But after a week filled with super intense reads it was a nice change of pase.
A bargain, a trade, a deal to be struck.
A kiss for a kiss.
Your shirt for mine.
Break my heart, I’ll break yours.
Their disastrous split was no different. Tobin’s spent the last year pretending Delia never existed, and Delia’s been in D.C., pretending to be anything but the country girl that she is.
When tragedy brings her back to town, Tobin and Delia realize that time apart hasn't healed either one of them. But staying away from each other is harder than they imagined, especially in small town Louisiana, and old feelings are quickly brought back to the surface. In the mess they’ve created, is there anything to be salvaged of a love that they both thought would be forever?
Rating: 3.5
This short, sweet, coming of age book was a nice quick read after a long weekend. It may not be the longest book, but the emotions definitely run deep and the characters are very likable! It's filled with plenty of love, loss, and heartache... Kind of your typical YA (Young Adult) story, and at times (well most of the time) I wished it wasn't so YA. There is a lot of emotional and angsty build up, but it didn't fully deliver for me in the romance category.
“A kiss for a kiss.
Your shirt for mine.
Break my heart, I’ll break yours.”
Some things that I did really enjoy about this book was the alternating POVs and flashbacks. Because the book is written from both Delia and Tobin's perspectives you really got a chance to understand both sides of their story (and I found myself going back and forth on whose side I was on). I also liked how the story jumps between present and past to relive the moments that defined their relationship most. You learn all about how they fell in love and what ultimately tore them apart.
“The problem with passion is it goes both ways. Love/Hate. The line between those two is a lot thinner than I thought.”
Probably the coolest thing about this book was the fact that the alternating narratives were written by the two different authors, with Perry doing Delia’s part and Campbell writing Tobin’s. Both writing styles meshed perfectly, but it gave the two characters distinctly different voices.
All in all it was a sweet book and a nice quick read. Did it give me the book hangover I usually crave?? No. But after a week filled with super intense reads it was a nice change of pase.
July 21, 2014
“Always a trade. Always a compromise. Until there wasn't anything left to bargain with, because neither of us had any clue what to do.”
Tobin and Delia's relationship was always a trade. A shirt for a shirt, a kiss for a kiss, a heart for a heart. All that changed when Delia's family moved away a year ago. But when Tobin's brother dies, Delia's family comes back to town for the funeral. When Tobin and Delia's lives cross paths again the old feelings of anger, betrayal, and love that have smoldering since their separation burst back into flames.
This is one of those books that was slow to simmer, but when it did heat up I was hooked. I usually hate a lot of flashbacks in books, but these flashbacks read like memories of my own. I felt the hurt and pain both Tobin and Delia were feeling. I was really surprised in the direction the book went toward the end, there was a definite surprise for me. Tobin and Delia were easy to connect with and love. Tobin is the country boy most girls dream about, all fire and passion in a pair of nice fitting jeans. Delia is a prisoner in her own home, living out her father's dreams instead of her own. I felt so bad for her, but kind of irritated because I wanted to her to stand up for herself. When I finally realized what she had been through I felt nothing but pity and love for her.
Some of the things that bothered me weren't huge, but they're little things I look for in a story. Mainly, I felt the absence of secondary characters. There weren't really any friends that I got to know, and I love a lot of complex characters when I read a book. I think that a few issues felt a little unresolved for me. The book could have been a little longer and maybe some conclusions could have been better handled[this also could have helped develop some of the secondary characters]. I didn't feel that sense of completeness when I was done reading. The story just didn't feel over for me.
Overall this was a really good, quick read with great main characters and just enough emotional turmoil to quicken my pulse.
Tobin and Delia's relationship was always a trade. A shirt for a shirt, a kiss for a kiss, a heart for a heart. All that changed when Delia's family moved away a year ago. But when Tobin's brother dies, Delia's family comes back to town for the funeral. When Tobin and Delia's lives cross paths again the old feelings of anger, betrayal, and love that have smoldering since their separation burst back into flames.
This is one of those books that was slow to simmer, but when it did heat up I was hooked. I usually hate a lot of flashbacks in books, but these flashbacks read like memories of my own. I felt the hurt and pain both Tobin and Delia were feeling. I was really surprised in the direction the book went toward the end, there was a definite surprise for me. Tobin and Delia were easy to connect with and love. Tobin is the country boy most girls dream about, all fire and passion in a pair of nice fitting jeans. Delia is a prisoner in her own home, living out her father's dreams instead of her own. I felt so bad for her, but kind of irritated because I wanted to her to stand up for herself. When I finally realized what she had been through I felt nothing but pity and love for her.
Some of the things that bothered me weren't huge, but they're little things I look for in a story. Mainly, I felt the absence of secondary characters. There weren't really any friends that I got to know, and I love a lot of complex characters when I read a book. I think that a few issues felt a little unresolved for me. The book could have been a little longer and maybe some conclusions could have been better handled[this also could have helped develop some of the secondary characters]. I didn't feel that sense of completeness when I was done reading. The story just didn't feel over for me.
Overall this was a really good, quick read with great main characters and just enough emotional turmoil to quicken my pulse.
July 14, 2012
Warning: this review contains spoilers!
This book was sweet but incredibly sad and depressing. While I liked it I didn't feel any real pull towards it. It was more of just a sad story with romance mixed in. I'm not sure why but it reminded me a little of The Notebook.
Delia has an unbelievably controlling father. Due to his career they are forced to go to DC from Louisiana for an extended period of time. Delia is leaving behind her boyfriend, Tobin. Things between them aren't going too great, and not because of the move but because she's pregnant. Tobin is naturally scared and sort of shuts down. Meanwhile, while in DC Delia gets an abortion and tries to move on to this guy her dad totally approves of, another politicians son.
The story is told mostly through random flashbacks, as from the start of the book Delia is back in Louisiana for Tobin's brothers funeral - a very sad and tragic death that, even through the end of the book you're not even sure why he didn't get off the train tracks when the train was coming.
Being back in town forces Delia and Tobin to cross paths multiple times and work out their issues, leading to Delia finally able to stand up to her father and allowing her and Tobin to live happily ever after.
I really enjoy books that alternate point of views, but this book was just a little too deep for me. I felt a little satisfaction whenever something would happen between Tobin and Delia, but there were so many sad and depressing items in this book I couldn't fully let myself swoon or truly love any of the romantic parts because i was already feeling so blah. While I liked the book and it was a good read, I probably won't read it again as. Although it has a happy ending, the book as a whole is more on the depressing side than cute and fun side like I prefer.
This book was sweet but incredibly sad and depressing. While I liked it I didn't feel any real pull towards it. It was more of just a sad story with romance mixed in. I'm not sure why but it reminded me a little of The Notebook.
Delia has an unbelievably controlling father. Due to his career they are forced to go to DC from Louisiana for an extended period of time. Delia is leaving behind her boyfriend, Tobin. Things between them aren't going too great, and not because of the move but because she's pregnant. Tobin is naturally scared and sort of shuts down. Meanwhile, while in DC Delia gets an abortion and tries to move on to this guy her dad totally approves of, another politicians son.
The story is told mostly through random flashbacks, as from the start of the book Delia is back in Louisiana for Tobin's brothers funeral - a very sad and tragic death that, even through the end of the book you're not even sure why he didn't get off the train tracks when the train was coming.
Being back in town forces Delia and Tobin to cross paths multiple times and work out their issues, leading to Delia finally able to stand up to her father and allowing her and Tobin to live happily ever after.
I really enjoy books that alternate point of views, but this book was just a little too deep for me. I felt a little satisfaction whenever something would happen between Tobin and Delia, but there were so many sad and depressing items in this book I couldn't fully let myself swoon or truly love any of the romantic parts because i was already feeling so blah. While I liked the book and it was a good read, I probably won't read it again as. Although it has a happy ending, the book as a whole is more on the depressing side than cute and fun side like I prefer.
November 13, 2012
“My heart for yours," he offers. "Deal.”
My Heart for Yours was a book I had wanted to read for a while, and when my best friend bought me this book for my birthday, I was over the moon. Nearly two months later, I finally got the chance to read it and overall, I thought it was a sweet and emotional story – one that I’m glad I read.
This was my first book by both Jolene Perry and Steph Campbell as authors, and I have to say, together these two make a great team. My Heart for Yours had the perfect balance of every emotion to make this story work and with the alternative points of view – that worked even better. You all know I’m a huge fan of it and I honestly don’t think this story would have worked any other way.
I really loved both Delia and Tobin – both were interesting characters who love each other fiercely but because of their miscommunication, their relationship broke down. It was interesting as a reader to see how their relationship started and why it went wrong through the flash backs. Each character has a different flashback and we really see how good they were together. I found myself praying that they could make it work and heal from their problems.
There was one character that I wasn’t keen on - Delia’s father, I’m not totally happy how things were left with him. I wanted Delia to stand up to him more than she did. I felt as though her father still knew he could control her a little bit. I really didn’t like him! All the other secondary characters were nice, I do wish we’d found out exactly what happened to Eamon – how his accident happened but I understand why it wasn’t explained because no-one but Eamon will know what happened.
Overall, My Heart for Yours was a good read and I’ll be looking out for more work by both of these authors.
My Heart for Yours was a book I had wanted to read for a while, and when my best friend bought me this book for my birthday, I was over the moon. Nearly two months later, I finally got the chance to read it and overall, I thought it was a sweet and emotional story – one that I’m glad I read.
This was my first book by both Jolene Perry and Steph Campbell as authors, and I have to say, together these two make a great team. My Heart for Yours had the perfect balance of every emotion to make this story work and with the alternative points of view – that worked even better. You all know I’m a huge fan of it and I honestly don’t think this story would have worked any other way.
I really loved both Delia and Tobin – both were interesting characters who love each other fiercely but because of their miscommunication, their relationship broke down. It was interesting as a reader to see how their relationship started and why it went wrong through the flash backs. Each character has a different flashback and we really see how good they were together. I found myself praying that they could make it work and heal from their problems.
There was one character that I wasn’t keen on - Delia’s father, I’m not totally happy how things were left with him. I wanted Delia to stand up to him more than she did. I felt as though her father still knew he could control her a little bit. I really didn’t like him! All the other secondary characters were nice, I do wish we’d found out exactly what happened to Eamon – how his accident happened but I understand why it wasn’t explained because no-one but Eamon will know what happened.
Overall, My Heart for Yours was a good read and I’ll be looking out for more work by both of these authors.
March 9, 2013
Tobin and Delia's have quite a few relational problems. Their break up involves miscommunication, inferiority complexes, and a damn misunderstanding. Their story is told in choppy flashbacks. It was really annoying.
Delia left her little country town and became a city girl. Now she's all makeup and Gucci and she's at home with that. But being back in her old hometown makes her question who she's become. She's about to break. Her dad is a strict U.S. Senator so her life revolves around a clean-cut boyfriend and political events and associates. Her dad runs her life.
Delia's an okay character who feels that Tobin has a right to be angry with her.
Now I’m just a girl here probably messing with his head in a way he doesn’t deserve.
Yes, Tobin is angry, but being with Delia brings back all his feelings and he's just confused.
Delia stares down at her tiny hands. I can’t help but stare at them too, remembering what it felt like to hold them. How they disappeared in my grasp. How somehow, holding her tiny hand made me feel safer, even stronger.
Tobin has always been from the other side of the tracks. A “bad boy” and unaccepted by Delia's father. Tobin mucks around with the drinking, the girls and the stunts.
Overall I felt the story was so-so. Not much seemed to happen and the characters are not thrilling, heartbreaking or life-changing. I'm disappointed, because quite a few of Ms. Perry's heroines have been all of the above for me.
Delia left her little country town and became a city girl. Now she's all makeup and Gucci and she's at home with that. But being back in her old hometown makes her question who she's become. She's about to break. Her dad is a strict U.S. Senator so her life revolves around a clean-cut boyfriend and political events and associates. Her dad runs her life.
Delia's an okay character who feels that Tobin has a right to be angry with her.
Now I’m just a girl here probably messing with his head in a way he doesn’t deserve.
Yes, Tobin is angry, but being with Delia brings back all his feelings and he's just confused.
Delia stares down at her tiny hands. I can’t help but stare at them too, remembering what it felt like to hold them. How they disappeared in my grasp. How somehow, holding her tiny hand made me feel safer, even stronger.
Tobin has always been from the other side of the tracks. A “bad boy” and unaccepted by Delia's father. Tobin mucks around with the drinking, the girls and the stunts.
Overall I felt the story was so-so. Not much seemed to happen and the characters are not thrilling, heartbreaking or life-changing. I'm disappointed, because quite a few of Ms. Perry's heroines have been all of the above for me.
May 24, 2012
Tobin and Delia are one of those couples that when you breathe their names, people just know.
This book gave me goose bumps from the first chapter. Tobin is so unbelievably broken and you want him seeing Delia to make it all better. But it doesn't. It can't. Usually I don't like flashbacks. I want the here and now. But Stephanie and Jolene made it so you craved the flashbacks. The now was almost too painful. You needed Tobin and Delia when they were madley in love. You needed to see their fire and passion for each other to understand their pain now.
This part had me bawling--A single Chuck Taylor. Faded. Blue. Tossed to the side of the tracks. With no owner.-- Well lots of stuff had me crying but I highlighted this part.
And Jolene's poetry was amazing. I want to quote some but I don't want to ruin it for readers. Just read to the end of the book. The last one is my favorite.
I loved this book. I've actually started reading it a second time. I want to experience their relationship again. Knowing everything that happens. I still want to be there with them again.
This book gave me goose bumps from the first chapter. Tobin is so unbelievably broken and you want him seeing Delia to make it all better. But it doesn't. It can't. Usually I don't like flashbacks. I want the here and now. But Stephanie and Jolene made it so you craved the flashbacks. The now was almost too painful. You needed Tobin and Delia when they were madley in love. You needed to see their fire and passion for each other to understand their pain now.
This part had me bawling--A single Chuck Taylor. Faded. Blue. Tossed to the side of the tracks. With no owner.-- Well lots of stuff had me crying but I highlighted this part.
And Jolene's poetry was amazing. I want to quote some but I don't want to ruin it for readers. Just read to the end of the book. The last one is my favorite.
I loved this book. I've actually started reading it a second time. I want to experience their relationship again. Knowing everything that happens. I still want to be there with them again.
October 10, 2012
I REALLY enjoyed this short read, but don't let the length fool you....the emotion runs deep! The characters were very likable and the plot was realistic. I actually recall witnessing a similar situation unravel between a group of friends when i was in college. While reading, you feel the love, loss, heartache, betrayal, pressure, persistence, drama, and the undeniable bond between the characters. I enjoyed reading from both Delia and Tobin's perspectives and the jump from history to present was very smooth and made sense. I didn't have to stop and think 'why is the author telling me this'?
May 31, 2012
Just when I think Jolene Perry can't get any better, she teams up with Stephanie Campbell to create a story that kept me awake all night because I couldn't put it down!
There are so many things to like about this book, but what I loved the most was the way the story kept unfolding. From the beginning, you think you know all there is to know about Delia and Tobin, but every chapter revealed a little more, another snippet of their past to better explain their present.
This story is just too beautiful for me to describe in a way that would do it justice.
Just read it!!
There are so many things to like about this book, but what I loved the most was the way the story kept unfolding. From the beginning, you think you know all there is to know about Delia and Tobin, but every chapter revealed a little more, another snippet of their past to better explain their present.
This story is just too beautiful for me to describe in a way that would do it justice.
Just read it!!
October 27, 2012
Kind of reminded me of The Notbook. Which I did NOT like. But then it wasn't like The Notebook. I loved this book. It was simple, yet so complex, and so heartbreaking. SO MANY FEELINGS! I loved/hated Delia, and loved/hated Tobin, and just plain hated Delia's father and mother. Oh, and I totally felt bad for Weston. He deserved soooo much better. But it was a great cast of characters in a unique situation. And so. Many. Emotions. I'm not used to that depth. But I loved it. And the ending was very... fitting. It was happy :)
June 6, 2012
I have no words for how much I enjoyed this book. Not most books are able to make me cry but this was one of those heartbreaking tear bringing books that I had to breath calmly for because i had to see what happened next. I loved this book so much I might even read it a few more times which is another rare thing I do also but this book, this heartfelt book has open new doors and i intend to walk through them all.
June 26, 2017
Good book. So happy Delia is starting to stand up for herself. So sad about Eamon. I really liked Tobin. The reasons they broke up a year ago were sad and it's too bad they couldn't be there for each other. I think Delia's dad was just too much for both of them. Maybe life was too much for them at that point. So glad it ended like it did, and I just realized there is a sequel I will have to look into.
August 23, 2012
Meant to be... Destiny... Forever love... That's what this book brought to me. Tradgety for truth and triumph. A story about young love that faces overwhelming odds to come back to what it means to love forever.
I shed tears durning this one.. A few times! Well written and loved the outlook of past vs present and wasnt confusing at all! Looking forward to another book team up, You both write so well together!
I shed tears durning this one.. A few times! Well written and loved the outlook of past vs present and wasnt confusing at all! Looking forward to another book team up, You both write so well together!
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