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A Changed Life
Change is never easy.
For seventeen year old Nicolette Vanelle, life is about to change...
Relocating to California, Nicolette finds herself starting over. A new high school. New friends. New life.
Attending her first Hollywood event, Nicolette meets bad boy Michael St. Clair, and unknowingly becomes the object of his obsession.
Feeling overwhelmed by Michael’s attention, she escapes the party to go to the beach where she meets Simon Paulson. He takes her breath away, an inevitable connection leading to romance between the young couple.
Nicolette and Simon’s happiness is short lived and their relationship is put to the ultimate test when tragedy befalls Nicolette.
Can Nicolette find the strength and courage to emerge from the darkness she fell into? Will Simon's unconditional love be enough to bring her back into the light?
Life can change in an instant, leaving you changed forever.
For seventeen year old Nicolette Vanelle, life is about to change...
Relocating to California, Nicolette finds herself starting over. A new high school. New friends. New life.
Attending her first Hollywood event, Nicolette meets bad boy Michael St. Clair, and unknowingly becomes the object of his obsession.
Feeling overwhelmed by Michael’s attention, she escapes the party to go to the beach where she meets Simon Paulson. He takes her breath away, an inevitable connection leading to romance between the young couple.
Nicolette and Simon’s happiness is short lived and their relationship is put to the ultimate test when tragedy befalls Nicolette.
Can Nicolette find the strength and courage to emerge from the darkness she fell into? Will Simon's unconditional love be enough to bring her back into the light?
Life can change in an instant, leaving you changed forever.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2013
8 people are currently reading
512 people want to read
About the author
Mary A. Wasowski
27 books241 followersMary A. Wasowski is a Best Selling Author who writes adult contemporary romance. Captivating and inspiring readers one book at a time.
Mary loves creating sexy alpha book boyfriends for you to swoon over. When she is not writing her happily ever after stories, she is an avid reader of all romance titles. A romantic at heart, she shares her zest for life with her husband, Henry, and their three sons.
Proud to be an Indie Author, she lives in North Carolina and works as a full-time writer.
Sparkle on loves...
xoxo
Chat with Mary on Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1AK7Zmr
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1C2FOU6
Twitter: https://twitter.com/wasow6
Instagram: http://bit.ly/1wUrF9i
Mary loves creating sexy alpha book boyfriends for you to swoon over. When she is not writing her happily ever after stories, she is an avid reader of all romance titles. A romantic at heart, she shares her zest for life with her husband, Henry, and their three sons.
Proud to be an Indie Author, she lives in North Carolina and works as a full-time writer.
Sparkle on loves...
xoxo
Chat with Mary on Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1AK7Zmr
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1C2FOU6
Twitter: https://twitter.com/wasow6
Instagram: http://bit.ly/1wUrF9i
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
August 25, 2013
Great job by this new Indie Author(Which happens to be my wife). I don't generally read books, especially of this genre. But how could I not read my wife's first book. Started yesterday morning and completed it today. No spoilers allowed, my wife says. But all I can say is that it's a great love story of a couple that goes through it till the end.
August 17, 2013
A Changed Life was not what I was expecting at all. This was a gut wrenching tragic story with a HEA.
This book amazed me from beginning to end. I didn't know what to expect especially seeing multiple POV`s through out the whole story. I see why the author did that and it made more sense because at first I was a little confused. Simon Paulson has became one of my #1 book boyfriend. He was there for Nickel and never left her side. I kept some of my book marks out so I wouldn't give away too much spoilers. This is a must read book.
This book amazed me from beginning to end. I didn't know what to expect especially seeing multiple POV`s through out the whole story. I see why the author did that and it made more sense because at first I was a little confused. Simon Paulson has became one of my #1 book boyfriend. He was there for Nickel and never left her side. I kept some of my book marks out so I wouldn't give away too much spoilers. This is a must read book.
August 31, 2013
3.5 stars.
I had a hard time connecting with the characters in this book. I don't know why honestly. It was a great story with love, tragedy, friendships, love and happiness in the end.
Nicolette who is seventeen years old finds her life changing when her parents decide to move from Chicago to California to better their careers. Nicolette is left with starting her senior year in a new school, having to make new friends and starting all over.
Nicolette Meets Michael the son to a mutual friend of her parents and right off the bat she does not like him, but decides to be civil to him for her parents sake. Throughout the story we see Michael, stalk her, trying to get her to see that he loves her. Nicolette does not like him, does not want to be with him, but Michael stops at nothing to try to win her over.
Enter Simon, Nicolette meets Him the same night she meets Michael, But with Simon she feels an instant connection and feels like she can truly talk to him.
One problem Simon and Michael have a history, we find out what that history is pretty early on in the book.
Nicolette and Simon start a relationship and things start to get more complicated with Michael for Nicolette. Simon wants Michael to stay away from Nicolette, but Michael does not listen.
I don't want to go into all the details of what transpires from this point on but I will say this Michael does something to Nicolette that forever changes her life.
I think this book should of come with some sort of warning about it's contents. Some readers may not be able to handle what all this story entails.
I know I liked the story, I did feel though that there was just to much information, The details of her parents, I'm not 100% sure how I feel about that whole section in the story. I felt Nicolette had enough to deal with without that being thrown into the mix of what was going on.
I will say this definitely if you want to take a chance on this story do it, Please don't let my review deter you from this story just because I could not connect with the characters and truly feel it does not mean you will not.
Thanks Mary so much for sending this my way to read and review.
I had a hard time connecting with the characters in this book. I don't know why honestly. It was a great story with love, tragedy, friendships, love and happiness in the end.
Nicolette who is seventeen years old finds her life changing when her parents decide to move from Chicago to California to better their careers. Nicolette is left with starting her senior year in a new school, having to make new friends and starting all over.
Nicolette Meets Michael the son to a mutual friend of her parents and right off the bat she does not like him, but decides to be civil to him for her parents sake. Throughout the story we see Michael, stalk her, trying to get her to see that he loves her. Nicolette does not like him, does not want to be with him, but Michael stops at nothing to try to win her over.
Enter Simon, Nicolette meets Him the same night she meets Michael, But with Simon she feels an instant connection and feels like she can truly talk to him.
One problem Simon and Michael have a history, we find out what that history is pretty early on in the book.
Nicolette and Simon start a relationship and things start to get more complicated with Michael for Nicolette. Simon wants Michael to stay away from Nicolette, but Michael does not listen.
I don't want to go into all the details of what transpires from this point on but I will say this Michael does something to Nicolette that forever changes her life.
I think this book should of come with some sort of warning about it's contents. Some readers may not be able to handle what all this story entails.
I know I liked the story, I did feel though that there was just to much information, The details of her parents, I'm not 100% sure how I feel about that whole section in the story. I felt Nicolette had enough to deal with without that being thrown into the mix of what was going on.
I will say this definitely if you want to take a chance on this story do it, Please don't let my review deter you from this story just because I could not connect with the characters and truly feel it does not mean you will not.
Thanks Mary so much for sending this my way to read and review.
October 19, 2013
3.5 Stars
There was not a dull moment in the story. It took me awhile to get used to the writing style and some of conversations between the characters felt forced/awkward. This made it hard for me to connect to Nicholette. The story was interesting, but I felt the characters feelings were forced.
I understood where the author was going and trying to show. Nicholette was independent and adjusting to her new home and life in California. Sometimes, I just want to “feel” what the characters’ feelings and not be told.
The author took risks with the story and characters. Many authors I think stay away from those types of subjects especially in NA high school stories. It is a hard subject to bring into a story and I was not expecting those events to take place. I am not sure how certain readers will handle it. They were life changing.
I want to add one thing…Simon was a great boyfriend. He could not be more perfect. The heroine goes through so much and yet he stays and is just a good person.
Overall, it was a good read.
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
There was not a dull moment in the story. It took me awhile to get used to the writing style and some of conversations between the characters felt forced/awkward. This made it hard for me to connect to Nicholette. The story was interesting, but I felt the characters feelings were forced.
I understood where the author was going and trying to show. Nicholette was independent and adjusting to her new home and life in California. Sometimes, I just want to “feel” what the characters’ feelings and not be told.
The author took risks with the story and characters. Many authors I think stay away from those types of subjects especially in NA high school stories. It is a hard subject to bring into a story and I was not expecting those events to take place. I am not sure how certain readers will handle it. They were life changing.
I want to add one thing…Simon was a great boyfriend. He could not be more perfect. The heroine goes through so much and yet he stays and is just a good person.
Overall, it was a good read.
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2013
After finishing this book, I felt completely exhausted. There are many strong emotions and situations floating around with this book. It is an amazing love story with plenty of moments that pulled at my heartstrings.
Nicolette and Simon experience an instant connection that grows stronger over time, despite all the horrible circumstances they face. Nicolette is a compassionate girl who puts the feelings of others before her own and Simon is sweet, loving, and protective of Nicolette. Their family and friends are always behind them 100%.
Despite the emotional and intense plot, I found myself laughing at times. There were many ups and downs in the story, but Simon was always supportive of Nicolette and showed his love at every turn.
It was a very good read and I can't wait to see what Mary will come up with next.
Nicolette and Simon experience an instant connection that grows stronger over time, despite all the horrible circumstances they face. Nicolette is a compassionate girl who puts the feelings of others before her own and Simon is sweet, loving, and protective of Nicolette. Their family and friends are always behind them 100%.
Despite the emotional and intense plot, I found myself laughing at times. There were many ups and downs in the story, but Simon was always supportive of Nicolette and showed his love at every turn.
It was a very good read and I can't wait to see what Mary will come up with next.
October 18, 2013
Blog tour stop with excerpt and giveaway: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2013...
I loved loved this book from the beginning to the very end. It was based off real life and those are the kind of books that I love to read. Sometimes when you read a book and you connect with the character because you feel like you have been through it also. Well with Nicolette the main character in the book I could relate to so much.
Nicholette is a high school girl that just moved from Chicago to California. First off she hates the move from that she had to make because she left family behind and all of her friends. Right after they moved there she had to go to a party with her parents because they help write songs for artists and movie scores. She fights with her mother all the time because of having to move to California. While she is at that party she meets a handsome rich kid that is a college student named Michael. Right off the bat she doesn't care for him and she tells him right from the beginning that she only wants to be friends with him. Then the next second she meets a handsome gorgeous surfer named Simon. He is just hot all around. She gets feelings for him that she doesn't want to ignore and hopes that he will like her the same way. Simon ends up falling in love with Nicholette right from the beginning. They start hanging out and talking on the phone all the time. She also falls in love with Simon also. Then all of a sudden something happens to Nicholette that shouldn't happen to a young girl. Michael the one that she doesn't care for and just wants to be friends with him. He keeps stalking her and telling her she needs to be with him. He will show up anywhere she is. She finds presents left by him at the locker even though he is a college student. It scares her so much and she can't do anything about it because her parents work for his father. When she tells her parents they told her to tell him that she isn't interested in a nice way. So she does and he just won't stop. Even her boyfriend Simon tells him to stay away from her. Well Nicholette ends up getting hurt by Michael. But I don't want to go so far in detail of the story because I don't want to ruin it.
After reading this story Simon stuck by Nicholette even after what happened to her. I could relate too her because my husband has stuck by me because of my past. That's what I love about him. I would really recommend this book to you to read. This is the type of book that you want to scream off the top of the roof and tell everybody to read it. It's a book that will stick with you to the very end. I even contacted the author to let her know how much I loved her book. She told me it made her cry because she didn't know her book would have this much affect on her readers and how they could relate to the characters. I even told her she needs to write another book about Simon and Nicholette. She said that she has been already asked about writing the sequel. Mary said she will probably do it. If she does I want to read it bad.
I loved loved this book from the beginning to the very end. It was based off real life and those are the kind of books that I love to read. Sometimes when you read a book and you connect with the character because you feel like you have been through it also. Well with Nicolette the main character in the book I could relate to so much.
Nicholette is a high school girl that just moved from Chicago to California. First off she hates the move from that she had to make because she left family behind and all of her friends. Right after they moved there she had to go to a party with her parents because they help write songs for artists and movie scores. She fights with her mother all the time because of having to move to California. While she is at that party she meets a handsome rich kid that is a college student named Michael. Right off the bat she doesn't care for him and she tells him right from the beginning that she only wants to be friends with him. Then the next second she meets a handsome gorgeous surfer named Simon. He is just hot all around. She gets feelings for him that she doesn't want to ignore and hopes that he will like her the same way. Simon ends up falling in love with Nicholette right from the beginning. They start hanging out and talking on the phone all the time. She also falls in love with Simon also. Then all of a sudden something happens to Nicholette that shouldn't happen to a young girl. Michael the one that she doesn't care for and just wants to be friends with him. He keeps stalking her and telling her she needs to be with him. He will show up anywhere she is. She finds presents left by him at the locker even though he is a college student. It scares her so much and she can't do anything about it because her parents work for his father. When she tells her parents they told her to tell him that she isn't interested in a nice way. So she does and he just won't stop. Even her boyfriend Simon tells him to stay away from her. Well Nicholette ends up getting hurt by Michael. But I don't want to go so far in detail of the story because I don't want to ruin it.
After reading this story Simon stuck by Nicholette even after what happened to her. I could relate too her because my husband has stuck by me because of my past. That's what I love about him. I would really recommend this book to you to read. This is the type of book that you want to scream off the top of the roof and tell everybody to read it. It's a book that will stick with you to the very end. I even contacted the author to let her know how much I loved her book. She told me it made her cry because she didn't know her book would have this much affect on her readers and how they could relate to the characters. I even told her she needs to write another book about Simon and Nicholette. She said that she has been already asked about writing the sequel. Mary said she will probably do it. If she does I want to read it bad.
March 30, 2015
**I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
The main reason for the 3 star review is that I felt blindsided by a few of the events, and even though I ended up being okay with them and read to the end, I felt it was needed to say that if you have triggers to sensitive material (will note in the spoilers***), please don't read this. It hurts my heart to say it, as it is a good book, but it may not be the book for you.
Another small reason I couldn't give this a higher rating, was that although they are marked, I was occasionally getting confused as to who was speaking/thinking. It may have been less confusing written in 3rd person.
***Spoilers***
I enjoyed the plot and love of this book, and that it IS a HEA, but I would rate the angst level at 4.5.
Simon is a heartthrob, a mature character, and loves with his whole being. All he wants, is to do what he thinks is best and be there for Nicolette.
Michael is a piece of work that I was annoyed with & wanted to hurl off a boat. I hated him for many chapters, until I finally just felt pity for him.
Nicolette is a teen thrown into things that no one should have to go through.*** She's fought through rape, finding out she's pregnant by her rapist, and then the tragedy of a miscarriage.*** She's a very strong character, and makes selfless choices at the same time as she runs away, but at the end of the day she's still a teenager dealing with adulthood.
I rated this a 3 because I felt a little blindsided by the events that happened with Nicolette, and I had a hard time reading through them, but I trudged through because I WANTED that HEA for them.
That being said, Simon & Nicolette belong together. They worked through their issues & fought for their love, resulting in their HEA.
The main reason for the 3 star review is that I felt blindsided by a few of the events, and even though I ended up being okay with them and read to the end, I felt it was needed to say that if you have triggers to sensitive material (will note in the spoilers***), please don't read this. It hurts my heart to say it, as it is a good book, but it may not be the book for you.
Another small reason I couldn't give this a higher rating, was that although they are marked, I was occasionally getting confused as to who was speaking/thinking. It may have been less confusing written in 3rd person.
***Spoilers***
I enjoyed the plot and love of this book, and that it IS a HEA, but I would rate the angst level at 4.5.
Simon is a heartthrob, a mature character, and loves with his whole being. All he wants, is to do what he thinks is best and be there for Nicolette.
Michael is a piece of work that I was annoyed with & wanted to hurl off a boat. I hated him for many chapters, until I finally just felt pity for him.
Nicolette is a teen thrown into things that no one should have to go through.*** She's fought through rape, finding out she's pregnant by her rapist, and then the tragedy of a miscarriage.*** She's a very strong character, and makes selfless choices at the same time as she runs away, but at the end of the day she's still a teenager dealing with adulthood.
I rated this a 3 because I felt a little blindsided by the events that happened with Nicolette, and I had a hard time reading through them, but I trudged through because I WANTED that HEA for them.
That being said, Simon & Nicolette belong together. They worked through their issues & fought for their love, resulting in their HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2014
Beautiful story very well written by this amazing woman!!! I love the way she write and with this "Forever", sve exceed herself!
This story is very intricate full of the strongest emotions you can experience in your whole life.i 've adored Reese a very strong girl that is forced to do painful things, i love this character but i was scared how the story was going ! My heart was broken , happy , in love , passionate and fearful!!
Walker is my myth i love all of him!! But my heart skip more than one bit with their fearful story!! And what can i say about the others characters , i hated them with all my heart and more!!!
I think for my health that what is coming is really a full love story with all the good things that this couple deserves. And i'm more than confident that this waiting will be worth it!!!
So this is the kind of story that you will love "forever " like me ! Another time thank you Mary Wasowsky to share your talent with us! ❤️❤️
This story is very intricate full of the strongest emotions you can experience in your whole life.i 've adored Reese a very strong girl that is forced to do painful things, i love this character but i was scared how the story was going ! My heart was broken , happy , in love , passionate and fearful!!
Walker is my myth i love all of him!! But my heart skip more than one bit with their fearful story!! And what can i say about the others characters , i hated them with all my heart and more!!!
I think for my health that what is coming is really a full love story with all the good things that this couple deserves. And i'm more than confident that this waiting will be worth it!!!
So this is the kind of story that you will love "forever " like me ! Another time thank you Mary Wasowsky to share your talent with us! ❤️❤️
June 14, 2014
This book was sad but inspiring! I can not even imagine what that was like, being raped by someone. It was amazing how Nicolette pushed through her hard times and how she became stronger from this experience. It really shows how hard it can be to experience something like being raped and how with time and love you can get through it. The past may never go away but it will still make you a better person. There is a saying I heard and that is "Forgive and forget what has hurt you in the past, but never forget what it has taught you." There is another saying that I find relates to a lot of parts in the book and I find that it is a very important to things related to being raped, the saying is "I FORGIVE BUT I DON'T FORGET!!!" I would recommend this book to anyone who has been through some kind of traumatizing experience or just wants to read some type of inspiring book. It is and amazing book but sad too.
August 12, 2013
This book truly surprised me. I still can't get over the story itself. It is a beautifully written and well told story of love, survival and self discovery. There were so many twist and turns to this story that just keeps you captivated. The emotions that you go through while reading and taking this story in are at times overwhelming but in a good way. The characters fit perfectly together and made the story even more emotional. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Oh yea...Simon, Simon, Simon!!!
Oh yea...Simon, Simon, Simon!!!
August 24, 2016
Life can change in an instant and switch up the path you are on in life. Nicolette's life did just that. How can a girl not love Simon, a guy who wears his heart on his sleeve?
At times I knew where things were going to go making the story predictable, but sometimes I like a read that I don't need to think, is sweet and makes you believe in love.
It was a sweet love story and a decent read.
At times I knew where things were going to go making the story predictable, but sometimes I like a read that I don't need to think, is sweet and makes you believe in love.
It was a sweet love story and a decent read.
October 16, 2013
what a great story
i love this kind of stories
i cannot believe i read this book in one day.
i can't wait for your new series
i love this kind of stories
i cannot believe i read this book in one day.
i can't wait for your new series
October 19, 2013
A Changed Life definitely is an amazing story. Nicolette moves to California at the beginning of her senior year which is a very hard change for any teenager. She had to move from a place where she grew up her whole life and leave all her friends she had known her whole life just to leave them and be uprooted to a new place where she knew absolutely nobody. One day at a party her parents forced her to go to she met two guys that are both unique in their own ways. Michael is the first guy she meets and the first impression he made was that he was a cocky jerk. He was very pushy and controlling and they had just met. Then later during the party Simon spots her and has this unexplainable pull towards her and is determined to meet her. When they meet there is an instant attraction towards each other. Their love story is not just a regular love story but a testament of how even young love can face horrific situations and overcome them. Simon wholeheartedly loves Nicolette and Michael does everything he can to break them up. Michael’s obsession becomes very unhealthy and delusional. Nicolette makes the mistake of not letting her parents and Simon know that Michael will not stop harassing her even though he has been told by Simon and her parents to stay away from her. Then something so traumatic happens that changes the course of Nicolette’s life as well as Simon’s. You will see the strength Nicolette has and the love that Simon has for her during this critical time. Simon proves how much he loves her by staying by her side the entire time. Simon never leaves her and gives her strength to keep going on. However, sometimes this isn’t enough. Nicolette had to face the situation head on and needed to do this by herself. Otherwise, she would continue to hurt the people she loved including Simon. There is not a day that Simon stops loving Nicolette. This book takes you on a journey showing that young love is for real and just because they are teenagers doesn’t mean their love for each other isn’t genuine. Sometimes adults don’t want to see their children grow up too fast before they are able to live their lives, but when you love somebody the heart knows what it wants. There is not an age where love can be considered real. There is no age limit, and Nicolette and Simon prove this to everybody including their friends and family.
The only issue I had with the book was the story kept switching to 1st person then to 3rd person. Quotations weren’t put in the correct places. I would get confused by thinking the character was describing the situation but then it turns out they were speaking to somebody. This made me read the part again just so I could understand and not miss out on anything. Other than the grammar issues I can say that this story was a very emotional and heartbreaking love story and I am glad I was able to read the book for an honest review.
The only issue I had with the book was the story kept switching to 1st person then to 3rd person. Quotations weren’t put in the correct places. I would get confused by thinking the character was describing the situation but then it turns out they were speaking to somebody. This made me read the part again just so I could understand and not miss out on anything. Other than the grammar issues I can say that this story was a very emotional and heartbreaking love story and I am glad I was able to read the book for an honest review.
February 25, 2017
I was intrigued by the synopsis of this book and eager to start reading. Initially, I had some difficulty getting into the story. The writing was somewhat choppy and Nicolette was a bit too wishy-washy for me. It seemed to me on several occasions that she felt or said one thing and then quickly did the opposite or backed down without much prompting. This seemed especially true when it came to Michael, who I immediately disliked. I'm sure that was the point, but I wanted her to be stronger in the face of his bold advances. Even when she dealt with Simon, there wasn't a great deal of development that took place, which is what usually endears me to characters in a book and helps me cheer for them. I was still very into the idea of this story and wanted to complete it, so I kept reading. I am glad that I did.
Chapter 6 was chilling in that I got a glimpse into Michael's mind and his perception of the events. The lack of concern for his overbearing actions was scary. He was a well-written character in this story and I was constantly worried about what he could or would do next. Michael's actions in Chapter 12 however, took his evil to a whole new level. What he took from Nicolette was heart-shattering. His lack of remorse for his actions was what really turned my blood cold. The revelations in Chapter 14 were jaw-dropping and I needed to know more and see how this would play-out with everything that had happened previously. I commend Wasowski for tackling such hard subjects head-on in this book and giving the characters such a hard road to travel. I have to say that the story's trajectory and intensity really helped to counteract my earlier criticisms of the book. I enjoyed watching Nicolette heal and find strength within herself. That was very powerful.
When I finished the book, I was pleased with how everything had turned out and willing to give more of Wasowski's books a try. I firmly believe that with some stronger editing (such as with commas, quotation marks, tenses), more initial character development and better consistency with perspectives/scenes, that this could be a truly phenomenal book. I really try not to nitpick errors in books, but there were many times in A Changed Life that they got in the way of my reading, such as with dialogue and who was talking at a particular time. However, I really did enjoy the storyline and Wasowski's bold tackling of such deep subject matter. Since this was her first novel, I am hoping that many of these errors were rookie mistakes. The story's content itself was strong and compelling, so I am eager to try another of her books.
Chapter 6 was chilling in that I got a glimpse into Michael's mind and his perception of the events. The lack of concern for his overbearing actions was scary. He was a well-written character in this story and I was constantly worried about what he could or would do next. Michael's actions in Chapter 12 however, took his evil to a whole new level. What he took from Nicolette was heart-shattering. His lack of remorse for his actions was what really turned my blood cold. The revelations in Chapter 14 were jaw-dropping and I needed to know more and see how this would play-out with everything that had happened previously. I commend Wasowski for tackling such hard subjects head-on in this book and giving the characters such a hard road to travel. I have to say that the story's trajectory and intensity really helped to counteract my earlier criticisms of the book. I enjoyed watching Nicolette heal and find strength within herself. That was very powerful.
When I finished the book, I was pleased with how everything had turned out and willing to give more of Wasowski's books a try. I firmly believe that with some stronger editing (such as with commas, quotation marks, tenses), more initial character development and better consistency with perspectives/scenes, that this could be a truly phenomenal book. I really try not to nitpick errors in books, but there were many times in A Changed Life that they got in the way of my reading, such as with dialogue and who was talking at a particular time. However, I really did enjoy the storyline and Wasowski's bold tackling of such deep subject matter. Since this was her first novel, I am hoping that many of these errors were rookie mistakes. The story's content itself was strong and compelling, so I am eager to try another of her books.
October 22, 2013
Given by the author for an honest review for her Blog Tour
It was not what I expected it to be..
The story had a nice flow and it was written remarkably.So, the writing is very good..I also consider it to be a quality-read..
However, there was too much going on..There were too many POVs that were leaving me confused,especially when the transition from one POV to another wasn't done properly..I just felt like everything was too much..When things were good,they were too good..When things got ugly,they were too ugly..
>>Nicolette was a nice character..A remarkable even..However,I don't see how she could be real,in my mind..She was too good to be true.. She is a great character that exudes strength and that's what I love about her..She is strong,she is mature,she is smart and she is very kind..She's really a very graceful person..However,the better person she was the more tragedies were piling up for her..It was really sad...
Despite her too-goo-to-be-true personality and all the tragedies she suffered,I really enjoyed her..
>>Simon was like a God in the book..Honestly..He was perfect..He had the perfect answers..The perfect reactions..Again,he felt like he was too good to be true,but he is more likely to exist rather than Mother Theresa aka Nicolette..He is my favourite character in the book..Everyone else was either too good or too crazy or too bad..He was the hero of the book and I loved him!
In the ending,I felt very frustrated..We read so many pages,seeing Nicolette and everyone else suffering for what happened to her and then in the ending the person responsible received a very small punishment regarding his doings..I just felt very cheated..All hell broke loose and went straight to Nicolette and in the end,a small punishment got delivered..
In conclusion,I simply liked the book because it was well written despite all the misfits it had..
This is simply my opinion..
It was not what I expected it to be..
The story had a nice flow and it was written remarkably.So, the writing is very good..I also consider it to be a quality-read..
However, there was too much going on..There were too many POVs that were leaving me confused,especially when the transition from one POV to another wasn't done properly..I just felt like everything was too much..When things were good,they were too good..When things got ugly,they were too ugly..
>>Nicolette was a nice character..A remarkable even..However,I don't see how she could be real,in my mind..She was too good to be true.. She is a great character that exudes strength and that's what I love about her..She is strong,she is mature,she is smart and she is very kind..She's really a very graceful person..However,the better person she was the more tragedies were piling up for her..It was really sad...
Despite her too-goo-to-be-true personality and all the tragedies she suffered,I really enjoyed her..
>>Simon was like a God in the book..Honestly..He was perfect..He had the perfect answers..The perfect reactions..Again,he felt like he was too good to be true,but he is more likely to exist rather than Mother Theresa aka Nicolette..He is my favourite character in the book..Everyone else was either too good or too crazy or too bad..He was the hero of the book and I loved him!
In the ending,I felt very frustrated..We read so many pages,seeing Nicolette and everyone else suffering for what happened to her and then in the ending the person responsible received a very small punishment regarding his doings..I just felt very cheated..All hell broke loose and went straight to Nicolette and in the end,a small punishment got delivered..
In conclusion,I simply liked the book because it was well written despite all the misfits it had..
This is simply my opinion..
October 21, 2013
I was debating between rating this a 3 or 4 star read, but the over all message & feel of the book pushed it to a solid 4 for me. A Changed Life really is the most appropriate and fitting title for Ms. Wasowski's debut novel. It's a heart-wrenching story of obsession, tragedy, and finding the strength & courage within yourself to change and move on.
I was immediately impressed with this cast of characters. They are definitely much older & wiser than their mere 18 years would lead you to believe. Defying the stereotype of your average teenagers, they exude maturity & responsibility that enables them to handle the situations life throws at them. I was especially a fan of Nicolette, who was always honest and forth-coming with her thoughts and concerns, telling her friends what they needed to hear as opposed to whatever would fluff their egos.
While the story would occasionally lose its flow, for the most part it went at a nice even pace without unnecessary rushing. Honestly for the depth of the personal journey Nicolette had to make, the author took as long as needed from start to finish to give you one complete story without skimming on the details or leaving off on a cliffhanger. However, one detail we could have done without is the mob bit. I don't feel like it added anything to the story and it was kind of out of my place with what was going on. But that's just my opinion.
I really enjoyed this story from beginning to end. Watching Nicolette's transformation and personal growth is without a doubt inspiring and uplifting, and will have you on an emotional roller coaster. Her story is not one to be taken lightly, and bears a very important message. So if you're looking to get hooked into a good book that packs an emotional punch this is the one for you.
I was immediately impressed with this cast of characters. They are definitely much older & wiser than their mere 18 years would lead you to believe. Defying the stereotype of your average teenagers, they exude maturity & responsibility that enables them to handle the situations life throws at them. I was especially a fan of Nicolette, who was always honest and forth-coming with her thoughts and concerns, telling her friends what they needed to hear as opposed to whatever would fluff their egos.
While the story would occasionally lose its flow, for the most part it went at a nice even pace without unnecessary rushing. Honestly for the depth of the personal journey Nicolette had to make, the author took as long as needed from start to finish to give you one complete story without skimming on the details or leaving off on a cliffhanger. However, one detail we could have done without is the mob bit. I don't feel like it added anything to the story and it was kind of out of my place with what was going on. But that's just my opinion.
I really enjoyed this story from beginning to end. Watching Nicolette's transformation and personal growth is without a doubt inspiring and uplifting, and will have you on an emotional roller coaster. Her story is not one to be taken lightly, and bears a very important message. So if you're looking to get hooked into a good book that packs an emotional punch this is the one for you.
October 25, 2013
J's Review~
This book was a more than just a story about finding love and getting your happily ever after. This book was a journey.
Nicolette and her family moved to California to pursue her parents dream. At first she was very angry to have been forced away from her home in Chicago so close to her eighteenth birthday and leaving her family and friends behind. Starting a new school at the beginning of her senior year wasn’t something she wanted to do.
While attending a party with her parents she meets Michael St. Clair. Michael was a college student and from the moment he laid eyes on Nicolette he had to have her. The problem was she didn’t want him.
To gain some privacy from Michael and his pursuit of her, Nicolette takes a walk on the beach and away from the party. This is where she meets Simon Paulson.
As time goes by Michael is ruthless in his pursuit on Nicolette. No matter how many times she rejected he never got the hint. He was calling, texting, and sending her gifts. He also showed up at many places she was.
Simon warned Michael away many times as well. They had a past and Simon knew Michael was no good. As the weeks and months go by, Simon and Nicolette form a relationship that can withstand so much pain and heartache.
I knew something wasn’t right with Michael, he was bad news, but Simon I instantly loved and never once did I doubt his devotion to Nicolette.
One act can change your life forever. This book is about overcoming an act of violence, forgiveness, trust, and learning to live again. Like I said it’s more than just a story it’s a journey of a young girl’s life that changed so much in an instant.
4 STARS!!!
This book was a more than just a story about finding love and getting your happily ever after. This book was a journey.
Nicolette and her family moved to California to pursue her parents dream. At first she was very angry to have been forced away from her home in Chicago so close to her eighteenth birthday and leaving her family and friends behind. Starting a new school at the beginning of her senior year wasn’t something she wanted to do.
While attending a party with her parents she meets Michael St. Clair. Michael was a college student and from the moment he laid eyes on Nicolette he had to have her. The problem was she didn’t want him.
To gain some privacy from Michael and his pursuit of her, Nicolette takes a walk on the beach and away from the party. This is where she meets Simon Paulson.
As time goes by Michael is ruthless in his pursuit on Nicolette. No matter how many times she rejected he never got the hint. He was calling, texting, and sending her gifts. He also showed up at many places she was.
Simon warned Michael away many times as well. They had a past and Simon knew Michael was no good. As the weeks and months go by, Simon and Nicolette form a relationship that can withstand so much pain and heartache.
I knew something wasn’t right with Michael, he was bad news, but Simon I instantly loved and never once did I doubt his devotion to Nicolette.
One act can change your life forever. This book is about overcoming an act of violence, forgiveness, trust, and learning to live again. Like I said it’s more than just a story it’s a journey of a young girl’s life that changed so much in an instant.
4 STARS!!!
August 28, 2013
This was a wonderful 4.5 Star read for me!
You think you understand the title of the story, but until you read it, you can't even begin to realize its more powerful meaning. A Changed Life indeed. I read the sample on amazon and after 2 pages I was hooked and 1 clicked like faster than I can even say 1 click. I had moments where I was ready for some "angst" and when I was, it was like Mary was in my head and boy oh boy does she deliver. You will get into a percentage of the story where she just plows you with one thing after another. She slapped me with one WTH moment and then again with another, and continued. You think you know where the book is going to take you in the beginning but you are wrong, so wrong! Each character was built well. You really fall in love with Nicolette. She captivated me right from page one! The rest of the characters immediately follow suit. Simon is a wonderful swoon worthy boyfriend and you'll love him from the moment he lays eyes on Nicolette. Oh, and let's not forget about Michael, you'll see what I mean when you read! From where this book starts to where it ends, I feel like I took this journey with this young couple, this young brave woman, Nickle! You'll be crying, cheering, putting your kindle down because you just need a moment to process what you just read. I can't say anymore as my lips are sealed! You want to know more? You'll have to read for yourself, and by that I mean, pick up a copy of this book now!
You think you understand the title of the story, but until you read it, you can't even begin to realize its more powerful meaning. A Changed Life indeed. I read the sample on amazon and after 2 pages I was hooked and 1 clicked like faster than I can even say 1 click. I had moments where I was ready for some "angst" and when I was, it was like Mary was in my head and boy oh boy does she deliver. You will get into a percentage of the story where she just plows you with one thing after another. She slapped me with one WTH moment and then again with another, and continued. You think you know where the book is going to take you in the beginning but you are wrong, so wrong! Each character was built well. You really fall in love with Nicolette. She captivated me right from page one! The rest of the characters immediately follow suit. Simon is a wonderful swoon worthy boyfriend and you'll love him from the moment he lays eyes on Nicolette. Oh, and let's not forget about Michael, you'll see what I mean when you read! From where this book starts to where it ends, I feel like I took this journey with this young couple, this young brave woman, Nickle! You'll be crying, cheering, putting your kindle down because you just need a moment to process what you just read. I can't say anymore as my lips are sealed! You want to know more? You'll have to read for yourself, and by that I mean, pick up a copy of this book now!
August 22, 2013
I had this book read in three days! Three days. If it wasn't for work, my son and husband; along with errands, cooking, cleaning, etc. this book would have been finished in two days :-). I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. I honestly didn't know what to expect and was def. surprised and caught off guard in a very good way. A little back ground on me, I typically don't read these young contemporary love stories. But found myself caught up in this book quickly. Right from the start, your pulled into the characters lives. Just when you think you might predict what will happen next, BAM! I caught myself more than a few times while reading almost yelling at the characters. Hahaha. I couldn't believe how psyched I was to get to the next chapter. If you want a book that delivers an array of emotions, drama and the like, you will enjoy this book. I believe the book works well b/c it posesses many realistic/true-to-life qualities. Its touching, its deep, its sometimes painful but in the end, it comes together so beautifully. Its def. not your typical romance novel. It has everything you need and written tastefully, in my opinion. Be prepared to laugh, cry and be moved. I'm looking forward to see what this author writes next.
October 19, 2013
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. Spoiler-free review. HEA which makes me happy :).
Seventeen year old Nicolette’s life is turned upside down when her parents decide to move from Chicago to Californian. She has to start all over again her senior year of high school. New friends, school and a changed life. I want to remain spoiler free so will top line - Nicolette attends her first Hollywood party meets two guys - Michael and Simon. Michael is a “bad boy” dbag. She manages to ditch him and meets and instantly falls for Simon (and so will you). Michael is a complete stalker and psycho. The unthinkable happens and Nicolette’s life will forever be changed in a horrible way.
This story has a few good emotional twists and turns making it a page turner. Mary A. Wasowski takes her time crafting her characters and the plot of ACL. I have say Simon is going on my high school book boyfriend list : ) . If you are in the mood for a solid emotional read than A Changed Life by Mary A. Wasowski is the book for you! I will definitely check out more of Mary’s books in the future. Four stars.
This review appears on www.kindlecrack.net, www.facebook.com/Kindlecrack, Goodreads, Amazon and Twitter.
Seventeen year old Nicolette’s life is turned upside down when her parents decide to move from Chicago to Californian. She has to start all over again her senior year of high school. New friends, school and a changed life. I want to remain spoiler free so will top line - Nicolette attends her first Hollywood party meets two guys - Michael and Simon. Michael is a “bad boy” dbag. She manages to ditch him and meets and instantly falls for Simon (and so will you). Michael is a complete stalker and psycho. The unthinkable happens and Nicolette’s life will forever be changed in a horrible way.
This story has a few good emotional twists and turns making it a page turner. Mary A. Wasowski takes her time crafting her characters and the plot of ACL. I have say Simon is going on my high school book boyfriend list : ) . If you are in the mood for a solid emotional read than A Changed Life by Mary A. Wasowski is the book for you! I will definitely check out more of Mary’s books in the future. Four stars.
This review appears on www.kindlecrack.net, www.facebook.com/Kindlecrack, Goodreads, Amazon and Twitter.
October 21, 2013
My first thought upon completion of this book was how exhausted my emotions were. This book deals with some harsh things but is also has an exceptional love story. There were definitely plenty of moments that pulled at my heartstrings.
There are lots of fantastic characters in this book. Nicolette and Simon have an instant connection that despite all they go through, only grows stronger over time. They were both wonderful characters to read about. Nicolette is kind and compassionate and always puts the feelings of others before her own. Simon is sweet and protective of Nicolette. They both have great families and a stellar group of friends.
This was a pretty intense and emotional book but I’m so glad I read it. The great character dynamics had me smiling and even laughing a few times. The story line was full of ups and downs but it was easy to see that through all that happens, the common theme is unconditional love. This was a really good read and I am giving it a 4 out of 5 stars.
There are lots of fantastic characters in this book. Nicolette and Simon have an instant connection that despite all they go through, only grows stronger over time. They were both wonderful characters to read about. Nicolette is kind and compassionate and always puts the feelings of others before her own. Simon is sweet and protective of Nicolette. They both have great families and a stellar group of friends.
This was a pretty intense and emotional book but I’m so glad I read it. The great character dynamics had me smiling and even laughing a few times. The story line was full of ups and downs but it was easy to see that through all that happens, the common theme is unconditional love. This was a really good read and I am giving it a 4 out of 5 stars.
October 19, 2013
Nicholette has moved with her parents to LA. She wasn´t happy about it.
Her parents are song writers. They´ve been invited to the Fourth of July party hosted by Clayton St. Clair.
At that party, she met Simon and Michael. Both Simon and Michael like her and wanted her. They fought for her.
But Michael did something tragic, something that will leave a mark on her forever. Something that changed her life.
Simon is so sweet, caring. He never gave up on her. He was all the way there for her.
Nicholette tried to push Simon away, but she didn´t succeed. He never left her side.
I´m glad that Nicholette and Simon got their HEA.
If you want to know what exactly happened, read the book. Give it a try. It is a really great book that has a perfect amount of everything: love, drama, tragedy, lust.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
Her parents are song writers. They´ve been invited to the Fourth of July party hosted by Clayton St. Clair.
At that party, she met Simon and Michael. Both Simon and Michael like her and wanted her. They fought for her.
But Michael did something tragic, something that will leave a mark on her forever. Something that changed her life.
Simon is so sweet, caring. He never gave up on her. He was all the way there for her.
Nicholette tried to push Simon away, but she didn´t succeed. He never left her side.
I´m glad that Nicholette and Simon got their HEA.
If you want to know what exactly happened, read the book. Give it a try. It is a really great book that has a perfect amount of everything: love, drama, tragedy, lust.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
September 22, 2013
Honestly I am not a big fan of books that the characters are high school kids. With that said I did feel like these kids were more mature beyond their year’s maybe it’s because they live in Hollywood and have rich families. This book is about making new friends, finding love dealing with tragedy and how your life can change in a second and that is exactly what happened to Nicolette. Michael is the son of a business partner with her parents and she decides she doesn’t like him from the beginning and then he does something to Nicolette that will change her life forever. Simon is her boyfriend who you just want to squeeze he’s just so cute and caring. I found myself with tears in my eyes more than once reading this book
December 1, 2013
I won this book from Love Between The Sheets, and didn't know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised! I loved the story and it didn't take long for me to be hooked. A Changed Life will tug at your heartstrings, taking you for an emotional ride. Tears of hurt/sadness and tears of happiness... what a roller coaster! I'm looking forward to reading Mary A. Wasowski's next book!
I wanted to give this 5 stars, but couldn't. In my opinion, additional editing is needed. The placement of quotation marks and some grammar / word placement issues made it a bit difficult to read at times. This caused the flow of the book to slow down and not be as smooth as it has the potential to be.
I wanted to give this 5 stars, but couldn't. In my opinion, additional editing is needed. The placement of quotation marks and some grammar / word placement issues made it a bit difficult to read at times. This caused the flow of the book to slow down and not be as smooth as it has the potential to be.
March 13, 2014
The beginning was hard to get through, but once you hit 40% it's a quick read, I loved the ending and how everything worked out but some of the stuff in the beginning was harder to believe, I know it's not real but the way some of the characters acted and the way the characters talked at times was awkward. But I wanted to give this book a chance and once I finished it I liked the rest of the book a lot. The kindle edition definitely needs more editing, lots of spelling, grammatical and other errors, which at times made it more difficult to read. But I am more than willing to give this author another chance. I bought her second book which I plan on trying out soon.
August 12, 2013
Nicolette and her Patents moved from Chicago to CA. for her patents career. Attending a party her parents want her to make friends she meets the son (Micheal) of a business associate. she gets bored so she goes to the Beach. where she meets Simon they hit it off right away. Micheal and Simon have a history which isn't good. So this is where the story takes off, there is Trauma that Nicolette goes through. Can Simon & Nicolette's love be enough to get them through this. You will enjoy this book. Mary did a wonderful job on her First Book.
February 12, 2014
I was recommended this book by a friend... All I can say is "WOW""
This book has you hooked from the start.
You can feel every emotion in it.
I'd love to hear more from "nickel" and simon.
I would recommend everyone read this book x
This book has you hooked from the start.
You can feel every emotion in it.
I'd love to hear more from "nickel" and simon.
I would recommend everyone read this book x
August 11, 2013
I ugky cried through most of this book. I know this is Mary's first book..I cannot wait for her next one
August 27, 2013
Ugh. Another DNF for me. Awful writing made this book SUPER hard to get into. I didn't make it past 10%. Not for me.
August 28, 2013
I totally recommend this book I felt in love with Simon and Nicollete. So romantic !! 5 stars fore sure! ;)
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