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Picturing Perfect #2
Subject to Change
Joey made her dad a deathbed promise that she would become a doctor, and dedicate herself to fighting the very cancer that took his life. There’s just one problem -three years into her pre-med classes, she's struggling to stay on top of the curve, let alone prove she's dazzling enough to earn a spot in an Ivy League medical school. In a Hail Mary move, she throws a basic Business 101 class into her semester schedule, banking on a perfect score to boost her GPA.
That is, until she’s paired for a final project with Hawk, the bartending, motorbike-riding, gorgeously bedheaded loser who falls asleep in class and communicates in one-word sentences.
Hawk does whatever he wants, whenever he wants, which sets Joey on edge – in every possible way. As they get to know each other, her urge to scream at him is curbed only by her fantasies of tearing his clothes off. Soon those fantasies become reality, and Joey realizes Hawk makes her feel more fully herself than any of the rich boys her mother and sorority sisters approve of.
But the promise to her father hangs over her head, and the harder Joey tries to succeed in her chosen career, the faster everything falls into a hopeless tailspin of bad grades, broken promises and guilt. It doesn't help to have Hawk sitting like a devil on her shoulder, insisting she should be free to live however she wants to live - like he does.
The only thing Joey knows is that her neatly organized life is crushing her - and Hawk's bad attitude might be the only thing that can save her.
That is, until she’s paired for a final project with Hawk, the bartending, motorbike-riding, gorgeously bedheaded loser who falls asleep in class and communicates in one-word sentences.
Hawk does whatever he wants, whenever he wants, which sets Joey on edge – in every possible way. As they get to know each other, her urge to scream at him is curbed only by her fantasies of tearing his clothes off. Soon those fantasies become reality, and Joey realizes Hawk makes her feel more fully herself than any of the rich boys her mother and sorority sisters approve of.
But the promise to her father hangs over her head, and the harder Joey tries to succeed in her chosen career, the faster everything falls into a hopeless tailspin of bad grades, broken promises and guilt. It doesn't help to have Hawk sitting like a devil on her shoulder, insisting she should be free to live however she wants to live - like he does.
The only thing Joey knows is that her neatly organized life is crushing her - and Hawk's bad attitude might be the only thing that can save her.
300 pages, Paperback
First published June 14, 2013
21 people are currently reading
1721 people want to read
About the author
Alessandra Thomas
14 books387 followersAlessandra Thomas is a New Adult writer who swears she was in her twenties yesterday. Since that’s sadly untrue, she spends her time looking back on her college years fondly, and writing sexy stories about guys and girls falling in love and really living life for the first time.
When she’s not writing, you can find her with a spoonful of ice cream in one hand and the newest New Adult release in the other.
Picture Perfect is Aless’s first New Adult novel. She had so much fun writing it that it definitely won’t be her last.
When she’s not writing, you can find her with a spoonful of ice cream in one hand and the newest New Adult release in the other.
Picture Perfect is Aless’s first New Adult novel. She had so much fun writing it that it definitely won’t be her last.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
March 25, 2015
This was:
- nice
- pretty short
- it has a bad boy college dude who drives a motorcycle
- it has a romance that starts with hate and turns to love
- deals with issues like choosing your major in college
- would recommend it to people finishing high school or starting college
Sorry for not writing a longer review but honestly I've read it two nights ago and I've already forgotten most of what happened cause I was skimming an already short book.
Oh well :)
June 17, 2013
Subject to Change
In this wonderful story we have Joey and Hawk.
Joey is studying premed to fulfill a promise she made to her late father. The problem is the more she studies, the more she realizes this may no longer be her dream, but she feels pressured to continue. To fulfill a college requirement, she enrolls in a business course. It's there that's she's partnered with Hawk. Hawk, who is either absent or late. She takes an instant dislike based on appearances. Two people from different backgrounds who share similarities, cross paths and go on a journey of self discovery.
Joey and Hawk's story is touching and uplifting- but has steamy moments as well ;) It's a story I would recommend to everyone. It will make you cry, it'll make you think, and it'll make you remember what's really important in life.
ARC copy provided by the author for an honest review.
In this wonderful story we have Joey and Hawk.
Joey is studying premed to fulfill a promise she made to her late father. The problem is the more she studies, the more she realizes this may no longer be her dream, but she feels pressured to continue. To fulfill a college requirement, she enrolls in a business course. It's there that's she's partnered with Hawk. Hawk, who is either absent or late. She takes an instant dislike based on appearances. Two people from different backgrounds who share similarities, cross paths and go on a journey of self discovery.
Joey and Hawk's story is touching and uplifting- but has steamy moments as well ;) It's a story I would recommend to everyone. It will make you cry, it'll make you think, and it'll make you remember what's really important in life.
ARC copy provided by the author for an honest review.
July 4, 2013
Subject to Change was a pleasant surprise and that was before I realized it was a second book in a series. I didn’t read Alessandra Thomas’s first novel, but I’d like to safely say that her books are complete enough to stand on their own, which I truly enjoy. The characters are fully developed, the story-line is cohesive, and there’s no annoying cliffhanger that would have you kicking the wall in frustration. Thomas does a great job of building a complete novel with all the right elements to keep you entertained.
In Subject to Change, we get to meet Joey who is in her senior year of college struggling through her pre-med courses. She decides to take a business class to alleviate the pressure on her GPA and gain her some leverage into med school. When Joey learns that the class involves a team project, all hopes of getting an easy A suddenly diminish. She’s paired with Hawk who can’t seem to make the project meetings and is constantly late or missing from class. As she begins to learn more about her project partner and his challenges, she soon realizes that her own academic goals are not that solid either. Joey and Hawk inevitably discover not only an attraction for each other, but a daunting realization that their future might need to be redefined in more ways than one.
As with most New Adult literature, I have to admit how much I like the more mature concepts and considerations that find their way into these story-lines. Most often, these novels introduce characters that are grappling with some heavy issues, while at the same time trying to define their path and future. Subject to Change is no exception, where the story includes two likable characters that have a lot to consider when it comes to defining who they will become.
I feel that despite Joey and Hawk’s constant stops and starts, they made a decent pair. Hawk was a bit more likable than Joey, but I must confess that I understood her extreme academic drive and commitment to her goals. I remember going through the exact same thing when I was in college. Grades and grad school were the most important thing to me and I remember facing obstacles with the same vengeance Joey did, so I sort of felt a connection with this character.
Overall Alessandra Thomas has a clear grasp of what concepts resonate best in New Adult. She’s able to share a realistic story with a cast of relatable characters. I’ll be sure to keep my eye out for more of her novels. I enjoyed it.
In Subject to Change, we get to meet Joey who is in her senior year of college struggling through her pre-med courses. She decides to take a business class to alleviate the pressure on her GPA and gain her some leverage into med school. When Joey learns that the class involves a team project, all hopes of getting an easy A suddenly diminish. She’s paired with Hawk who can’t seem to make the project meetings and is constantly late or missing from class. As she begins to learn more about her project partner and his challenges, she soon realizes that her own academic goals are not that solid either. Joey and Hawk inevitably discover not only an attraction for each other, but a daunting realization that their future might need to be redefined in more ways than one.
As with most New Adult literature, I have to admit how much I like the more mature concepts and considerations that find their way into these story-lines. Most often, these novels introduce characters that are grappling with some heavy issues, while at the same time trying to define their path and future. Subject to Change is no exception, where the story includes two likable characters that have a lot to consider when it comes to defining who they will become.
I feel that despite Joey and Hawk’s constant stops and starts, they made a decent pair. Hawk was a bit more likable than Joey, but I must confess that I understood her extreme academic drive and commitment to her goals. I remember going through the exact same thing when I was in college. Grades and grad school were the most important thing to me and I remember facing obstacles with the same vengeance Joey did, so I sort of felt a connection with this character.
Overall Alessandra Thomas has a clear grasp of what concepts resonate best in New Adult. She’s able to share a realistic story with a cast of relatable characters. I’ll be sure to keep my eye out for more of her novels. I enjoyed it.
June 24, 2013
I LOVED this book. I thought I loved the first book in this series, turns out I loved this one more. Joey and Hawk, well lets just say they are one of the best couples out there (for me). Hawk is a guy trying to survive, be positive and attend classes while taking care of his rebellious sister and his own business. Joey is at crossroads about her choose major at the uni. They meet in a business class. At first glance, Hawk seems like he is the kind of guy who doesn't care much about stuff. A few chapters in the story, one realises he is more than tousled hair and gorgeous smile. He is a guy carrying the world on his shoulders, but doesn't let it pull him down.
I'm really a fan of Ms Thomas HEA endings. This one didn't disappoint.
I highly recommend this book!!
I'm really a fan of Ms Thomas HEA endings. This one didn't disappoint.
I highly recommend this book!!
February 1, 2016
Done! 4.5 from me ♥
July 1, 2013
Alessandra Thomas has a gift for developing her stories and characters with a depth that resonates with me and that is more than face-value.
Opening: Before I even put pencil to paper to start my homework, I dug out the tiny container of replacement leads and set them beside me on the desk.
Best Line: "But if anything in this whole world is true, Joey," he said, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear, "it's that I love you."
Closing: We were both going places, we were both happy, we loved each other, and life was pretty damn good.
In this series, the author brings out real issues and situations that I relate to -- the underlying factors that lead to decisions that impact our whole lives. Looking back, so many of the decisions that I made between the ages of 18-25 were LIFE DIRECTION decisions ... and to think I was so young and inexperienced and just hoping against hope that I didn't make an unrecoverable mistake.
STC is a great read and I look forward to more in the series!
Opening: Before I even put pencil to paper to start my homework, I dug out the tiny container of replacement leads and set them beside me on the desk.
Best Line: "But if anything in this whole world is true, Joey," he said, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear, "it's that I love you."
Closing: We were both going places, we were both happy, we loved each other, and life was pretty damn good.
In this series, the author brings out real issues and situations that I relate to -- the underlying factors that lead to decisions that impact our whole lives. Looking back, so many of the decisions that I made between the ages of 18-25 were LIFE DIRECTION decisions ... and to think I was so young and inexperienced and just hoping against hope that I didn't make an unrecoverable mistake.
STC is a great read and I look forward to more in the series!
Want to read
March 31, 2013I will read anything this brilliant woman writes.
May 10, 2013
Super excited about this book. I just loved her debut novel!!
June 24, 2013
I loved Alessandra's followup to PICTURE PERFECT as much as her initial foray into NA, which is saying something. She has a knack for writing real characters with real struggles, be they the self-concious Cat or now, the floundering Joey.
Lucky for Joey, she gets paired with William Hawkins, aka Hawk, for a class project. Even though she tries to jam his hot, rumpled, tattooed, perpetually late ass into a box marked "loser," Hawk refuses to fit neatly surprising her at every turn. Their chemistry is palpable, and as Joey and Hawk start to realize their feelings for one another are as real as the problems crowding their lives, their relationship begins to get real very fast.
Thomas doesn't shy away from the realities of love, or of the effort it takes to make space for someone else in your life, and her books are the stronger for it. Life, after all, isn't made of rainbows, but finding the right person can make you find the desire to keep chasing those pots of gold.
Loved it. Fantastic relationship study that centers around that time in our lives where we have to choose between the person others thought we'd be and the person we want to become.
Lucky for Joey, she gets paired with William Hawkins, aka Hawk, for a class project. Even though she tries to jam his hot, rumpled, tattooed, perpetually late ass into a box marked "loser," Hawk refuses to fit neatly surprising her at every turn. Their chemistry is palpable, and as Joey and Hawk start to realize their feelings for one another are as real as the problems crowding their lives, their relationship begins to get real very fast.
Thomas doesn't shy away from the realities of love, or of the effort it takes to make space for someone else in your life, and her books are the stronger for it. Life, after all, isn't made of rainbows, but finding the right person can make you find the desire to keep chasing those pots of gold.
Loved it. Fantastic relationship study that centers around that time in our lives where we have to choose between the person others thought we'd be and the person we want to become.
August 19, 2013
*Also posted at Oops! I Read A Book Again*
Thank you to Kelly of InkSlinger PR for the eARC of this novel! As always, only 100% honesty in my reviews!
I was supposed to post this review during release day a few days ago but decided on postponing it. Yes, I gave this book 3 stars but I was honestly going to give it 2 stars for most part of the book until certain scenes saved it for me and after thinking about the rating quite a lot. And I figured I didn't want to rain on Alessandra's release day parade (she's so cool!) so I opted to post this review another day. I still enjoyed the novel but I think I was in a critical mood the day I read it and so I noticed lots of stuff that didn't work for me. So my review format for today would be the likes and dislikes list! I'll list and expound on the elements that worked for me and then on those that did not. So here goes!
Things that I Liked in Subject to Change
1. Academic life. Subject to Change's take on the academic load and woes of college students was too real it kinda singed a bit of my heart. Joey's taking a pre-med course that's killing her because science is not really her forte. Organic chemistry and statistics are killing her and she just can't get that A even with all the hours she's slaving away studying. While my major was also science in nature and while I do love it so much, I can truly relate to Joey. I hate organic chemistry and statistics. Moreover, even people who love their majors still had doubts about it. Should I shift? Should I change my major? But I already put in so much time and effort on this course. Should I just see it through the end? Plus, the characters actually went to class! To the library! To the hospital to intern! Not just holed up in their sorority house or apartment shacking up. I really found everything about school life in Subject to Change lovely and achingly true.
2. Issues it tackled. Like most new adult novels, Subject to Change dealt with its fair share of issues. Sickness and disease, death, money, expectations, rebellion and family problems among others. So if you're wondering if this novel has depth, it has. Additionally, the resolutions to these issues were dealt with nicely.
3. Big ass gesture at the end. So I'm a sucker for big gestures to win over people IN FICTION. In real life, I hate surprises and being embarrassed in front of people but I truly enjoy reading and watching fictional characters blush and wish the ground will swallow them up while the love of their life even embarrasses him/herself more. The big gesture in Subject to Change is SO SWEET, it saved the novel for me. Seriously. Or because the gesture was done while in class.
4. Sisterhood/ Friendship among girls. Aren't you tired of women and girls being depicted as all catty? That girls don't have real friendships with other girls but are all secretly insecure and jealous of one another? I'm so pissed when I read girls fighting just for the sake of fighting or for plot. In here, we have tons of healthy relationships among girls and I just wanna hug Alessandra for writing them. I especially like Joey and Hawk's sisters bond.
Things that Didn't Really Work for Me in Subject to Change
1. Basis/pace of Joey and Hawk's relationship/non-stop sex. Sigh. Get this. This tattooed, eternally-late guy pisses you off and then next, you're kissing? Woah, stop right there. Where did that come from? Then they're all hot and bothered about each other. Then they jump on each other's bones. Sigh. I get it, tattooed bad boy who is an amazing cook and who actually has tons of baggage is hot. But from angry to ovaries exploding, ready to get it on the kitchen counter? Girl, what's that about? I seriously cannot fathom this relationship. For me, all they had was an intense sexual tension, physical attraction and lust for each other. I don't think it's love. Sure, when they got to know each other, they could have gradually started to love each other. But I don't know, I'm not convinced. It didn't help that it was scene after scene of nothing but sex. How would I feel the love from that? I felt like a list was being checked. Sex on the couch? Check. On the counter? Check. On the bed? Check. Where else?
2. Cover. Well, I'm not usually picky with NA covers. But I just think this is too much. I think it's more apt as a cover for an erotica book? But then, I already mentioned how much boning happens here so maybe it's actually apt.
3. Bad boy. I think it might be a case of wrong timing for Subject to Change. I think I got saturated with reading bad boys (who are actually good) that when I got to know Hawk, I didn't fall for him. Sure, I love me some guy who can cook, but that's it. I didn't fall for him and maybe that's another reason why I didn't like this as much as I thought I would. Because I didn't love the hero. A lot of my enjoyment of a romance novel hinges on me liking or loving the two characters and their relationship and romance. And since that didn't happen with Subject to Change, my enjoyment hugely abated.
Still, I would recommend Subject to Change to contemporary NA romance lovers. This is so steamy, by the way. So if you need that fix, go read this! If you're in need of a "bad boy" story, go for this! I still believe lots of you will enjoy this novel. I just think it wasn't for me or that it wasn't for me at the time.
Thank you to Kelly of InkSlinger PR for the eARC of this novel! As always, only 100% honesty in my reviews!
I was supposed to post this review during release day a few days ago but decided on postponing it. Yes, I gave this book 3 stars but I was honestly going to give it 2 stars for most part of the book until certain scenes saved it for me and after thinking about the rating quite a lot. And I figured I didn't want to rain on Alessandra's release day parade (she's so cool!) so I opted to post this review another day. I still enjoyed the novel but I think I was in a critical mood the day I read it and so I noticed lots of stuff that didn't work for me. So my review format for today would be the likes and dislikes list! I'll list and expound on the elements that worked for me and then on those that did not. So here goes!
Things that I Liked in Subject to Change
1. Academic life. Subject to Change's take on the academic load and woes of college students was too real it kinda singed a bit of my heart. Joey's taking a pre-med course that's killing her because science is not really her forte. Organic chemistry and statistics are killing her and she just can't get that A even with all the hours she's slaving away studying. While my major was also science in nature and while I do love it so much, I can truly relate to Joey. I hate organic chemistry and statistics. Moreover, even people who love their majors still had doubts about it. Should I shift? Should I change my major? But I already put in so much time and effort on this course. Should I just see it through the end? Plus, the characters actually went to class! To the library! To the hospital to intern! Not just holed up in their sorority house or apartment shacking up. I really found everything about school life in Subject to Change lovely and achingly true.
2. Issues it tackled. Like most new adult novels, Subject to Change dealt with its fair share of issues. Sickness and disease, death, money, expectations, rebellion and family problems among others. So if you're wondering if this novel has depth, it has. Additionally, the resolutions to these issues were dealt with nicely.
3. Big ass gesture at the end. So I'm a sucker for big gestures to win over people IN FICTION. In real life, I hate surprises and being embarrassed in front of people but I truly enjoy reading and watching fictional characters blush and wish the ground will swallow them up while the love of their life even embarrasses him/herself more. The big gesture in Subject to Change is SO SWEET, it saved the novel for me. Seriously. Or because the gesture was done while in class.
4. Sisterhood/ Friendship among girls. Aren't you tired of women and girls being depicted as all catty? That girls don't have real friendships with other girls but are all secretly insecure and jealous of one another? I'm so pissed when I read girls fighting just for the sake of fighting or for plot. In here, we have tons of healthy relationships among girls and I just wanna hug Alessandra for writing them. I especially like Joey and Hawk's sisters bond.
Things that Didn't Really Work for Me in Subject to Change
1. Basis/pace of Joey and Hawk's relationship/non-stop sex. Sigh. Get this. This tattooed, eternally-late guy pisses you off and then next, you're kissing? Woah, stop right there. Where did that come from? Then they're all hot and bothered about each other. Then they jump on each other's bones. Sigh. I get it, tattooed bad boy who is an amazing cook and who actually has tons of baggage is hot. But from angry to ovaries exploding, ready to get it on the kitchen counter? Girl, what's that about? I seriously cannot fathom this relationship. For me, all they had was an intense sexual tension, physical attraction and lust for each other. I don't think it's love. Sure, when they got to know each other, they could have gradually started to love each other. But I don't know, I'm not convinced. It didn't help that it was scene after scene of nothing but sex. How would I feel the love from that? I felt like a list was being checked. Sex on the couch? Check. On the counter? Check. On the bed? Check. Where else?
2. Cover. Well, I'm not usually picky with NA covers. But I just think this is too much. I think it's more apt as a cover for an erotica book? But then, I already mentioned how much boning happens here so maybe it's actually apt.
3. Bad boy. I think it might be a case of wrong timing for Subject to Change. I think I got saturated with reading bad boys (who are actually good) that when I got to know Hawk, I didn't fall for him. Sure, I love me some guy who can cook, but that's it. I didn't fall for him and maybe that's another reason why I didn't like this as much as I thought I would. Because I didn't love the hero. A lot of my enjoyment of a romance novel hinges on me liking or loving the two characters and their relationship and romance. And since that didn't happen with Subject to Change, my enjoyment hugely abated.
Still, I would recommend Subject to Change to contemporary NA romance lovers. This is so steamy, by the way. So if you need that fix, go read this! If you're in need of a "bad boy" story, go for this! I still believe lots of you will enjoy this novel. I just think it wasn't for me or that it wasn't for me at the time.
September 27, 2013
A highly emotional read with two great charcters that bring nothing but hope and solice to the reader who picks up this book. Ms. Thomas’ second novel in her Picturing Perfect series is nothing short of entertaining and enjoyable! When a committed and sincere pre-med student meets a brooding and somewhat rough-around-the-edges bar owner, the sparks fly when they’re paired up for a business class project. He cares about the class and wants to somehow acquire that business degree, and she just is using the class to increase her GPA so she can stay in the pre-med program. But, what will happen when this pair of misfits increase their time together while working on their project? They’re both not sure of the choices that they are making and wishing that they could just be what the other needs without all the drama involved. Too many heartbreaking situations affect their individual decisions about their lives while clouding their judgment. One couldn’t help but feel sorry and sad for both.
Josephine Daly is a petite blonde young woman that’s just trying to find her way. She makes a promise to her dying father that seems to consume her entire existence. But, is it what she really wants? Meeting William Hawkins might just be the worst thing ever. He’s bold. He’s opinionated. He’s late to everything. But, he’s hot! With those crystal-clear blue eyes, messy brown hair, and, oh so, cut physique! He just mesmerizes Joey beyond belief! When they get together to begin their class project, Hawk is, of course, late, and this steams Joey to no end. But, as time goes by, Joey realizes that there’s more to the motorcyle-riding hottie. He’s been wounded numerous times with family tragedies, but he’s still standing. Still plugging along doing the best he can. Trying to just stay afloat while being there for a younger sister that is deeply pained and hating life at the moment.
Joey also has her fair share of heartache and trauma in her young life. Trying to live up to the family potential is a hard task to undertake. When it finally comes down to a make or break decision, will Hawk be there to help her pick up the pieces of her disappointng resolution?
This novel was emotionally heartfelt. One couldn’t help but feel for Joey and the tough spot she was in. She loved her father and his memory deeply, but if doing as he asked was going to make her so miserable, if he really loved her, he would understand her final decision. I couldn’t help but shed a few tears when Hawk was telling her his sad story. How much more could this beautiful man lose? How could he still be so strong after so much tragedy claimed the lives of people he loved? He was a tough talker, but he was also a sweetheart. He cooked for Godsakes! He rode a motorcyle. And, he had blue eyes to boot! Besides all that, he was a skilled lover, and Joey just couldn’t get enough of him! And, the sex? Just steamy...And, explosive! And, blushingly erotic! I read this novel in one day because it was that great with all the elements that complete an erotically dramatic romance!
And his tattoos? Oh, they were breathtaking...all locking together as one big one. They represented everything in his life he wanted to remember – his parents, his sister, and himself.
“I got them because it reminds me that life can be painful, and that pain will always be a permanent part of me.” ~ Hawk (pg. 170).
And, eventually he brands himself with Joey’s tattoo...symbolizing always moving forward, never moving backward ~
“You’ve done that for me. I’m not dwelling on shit that I used to. That means a lot.” ~ Hawk (pg. 177).
While, Joey, after her final decision about her college major allows her to breath much easier, decides to mark her body with Hawk’s namesake, which symbolizes decisiveness and initiative). The tattoo was a series of swirls and lines that really didn’t resemble much of anything until you got a good look at it – the same way that Hawk shapped her – “not that noticeable to most people, but if you paid attention, looked closely, got to know me, you’d definitely be able to see it.” ~ Joey (pg. 245)
Loved both characters! Loved the storyline! And, the reader still gets a glimpse of Cat and Nate from her first Picturing Perfect installment. The books keep getting better and better, and I definitely noticed more character growth, more details pertaining to the storyline, and being shown more than just telling more about their feelings and backstories. The dialogue was also more mature. Looking forward to the next novel, Drop Everything Now!
Josephine Daly is a petite blonde young woman that’s just trying to find her way. She makes a promise to her dying father that seems to consume her entire existence. But, is it what she really wants? Meeting William Hawkins might just be the worst thing ever. He’s bold. He’s opinionated. He’s late to everything. But, he’s hot! With those crystal-clear blue eyes, messy brown hair, and, oh so, cut physique! He just mesmerizes Joey beyond belief! When they get together to begin their class project, Hawk is, of course, late, and this steams Joey to no end. But, as time goes by, Joey realizes that there’s more to the motorcyle-riding hottie. He’s been wounded numerous times with family tragedies, but he’s still standing. Still plugging along doing the best he can. Trying to just stay afloat while being there for a younger sister that is deeply pained and hating life at the moment.
Joey also has her fair share of heartache and trauma in her young life. Trying to live up to the family potential is a hard task to undertake. When it finally comes down to a make or break decision, will Hawk be there to help her pick up the pieces of her disappointng resolution?
This novel was emotionally heartfelt. One couldn’t help but feel for Joey and the tough spot she was in. She loved her father and his memory deeply, but if doing as he asked was going to make her so miserable, if he really loved her, he would understand her final decision. I couldn’t help but shed a few tears when Hawk was telling her his sad story. How much more could this beautiful man lose? How could he still be so strong after so much tragedy claimed the lives of people he loved? He was a tough talker, but he was also a sweetheart. He cooked for Godsakes! He rode a motorcyle. And, he had blue eyes to boot! Besides all that, he was a skilled lover, and Joey just couldn’t get enough of him! And, the sex? Just steamy...And, explosive! And, blushingly erotic! I read this novel in one day because it was that great with all the elements that complete an erotically dramatic romance!
And his tattoos? Oh, they were breathtaking...all locking together as one big one. They represented everything in his life he wanted to remember – his parents, his sister, and himself.
“I got them because it reminds me that life can be painful, and that pain will always be a permanent part of me.” ~ Hawk (pg. 170).
And, eventually he brands himself with Joey’s tattoo...symbolizing always moving forward, never moving backward ~
“You’ve done that for me. I’m not dwelling on shit that I used to. That means a lot.” ~ Hawk (pg. 177).
While, Joey, after her final decision about her college major allows her to breath much easier, decides to mark her body with Hawk’s namesake, which symbolizes decisiveness and initiative). The tattoo was a series of swirls and lines that really didn’t resemble much of anything until you got a good look at it – the same way that Hawk shapped her – “not that noticeable to most people, but if you paid attention, looked closely, got to know me, you’d definitely be able to see it.” ~ Joey (pg. 245)
Loved both characters! Loved the storyline! And, the reader still gets a glimpse of Cat and Nate from her first Picturing Perfect installment. The books keep getting better and better, and I definitely noticed more character growth, more details pertaining to the storyline, and being shown more than just telling more about their feelings and backstories. The dialogue was also more mature. Looking forward to the next novel, Drop Everything Now!
July 8, 2013
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This was a surprise. I was ready to be swept away by the romance but I ended up liking it for something out of the ordinary for most New Adult Contemporary Romance books. Before I get to that, let's dig into the part that I didn't exactly like about the book: The romance.
Is it crazy that I wasn't entirely sold on Joey and Hawk's relationship? Here's how it went down: Joey meets Hawk in class, she immediately hates his guts, they get paired up for a project (of course), she continues to hate him -but wait!- he's not such a bad guy after all, they hook up, all hell breaks loose, they kiss and make up, and they live happily ever after. It was formulaic but don't get me wrong, I have a soft spot for love stories like that! And I liked Joey and Hawk as individuals. However I just didn't get that magic in Subject to Change. The build up was a bit forced, their relationship wasn't so convincing and the resolution felt rushed. To me the romance was raw and needed much development. The sex was steamy, I'll give it that, but I think it overshadowed everything else that was supposed to make readers see what exactly makes their feelings for each other real. If I don't get anything more than the physical attraction between the characters then there's no way for me to understand their relationship. The resolution, as well as the happily ever after, was nice albeit rushed. I think if I had gotten more from their relationship, I would've appreciated the HEA more.
But this is the part that I did like: their college life. Joey's having so much trouble coping with her pre-med major because she really wasn't into it. She's so bent on making it work because she promised her dad before he died. So she's caught between pursuing what she wanted but dealing with the guilt or finishing what she started because of a promise. I really liked reading about Joey's struggles in her academic life and how she finally came to a life-altering decision. There was so much emotion and insight that I was reminded of my own struggles. This aspect of the book hit home for me. For three years I was stuck in a major I thought my parents wanted for me so I tried my hardest because I didn't want to disappoint them by changing majors. Long story short I made the change, I'm happy now and my parents are still as supportive. Not only was Joey relatable, her story is something I rarely see in most books under the same genre. Even Hawk has his own dilemma to deal with. He's a working student, struggling to get a degree while keeping his business afloat. It was all stressful and chaotic but it's the reality that people face growing up. They were actually college students who had grown up problems to deal with. College wasn't superficial in this book; Joey and Hawk were very much immersed in it. It was refreshing and I love it.
I liked Subject to Change as a whole. I enjoyed everything else about the book except the romance but hey, you might find it more to your liking.
(eARC provided by author. This review is based solely on my opinion.)
This was a surprise. I was ready to be swept away by the romance but I ended up liking it for something out of the ordinary for most New Adult Contemporary Romance books. Before I get to that, let's dig into the part that I didn't exactly like about the book: The romance.
Is it crazy that I wasn't entirely sold on Joey and Hawk's relationship? Here's how it went down: Joey meets Hawk in class, she immediately hates his guts, they get paired up for a project (of course), she continues to hate him -but wait!- he's not such a bad guy after all, they hook up, all hell breaks loose, they kiss and make up, and they live happily ever after. It was formulaic but don't get me wrong, I have a soft spot for love stories like that! And I liked Joey and Hawk as individuals. However I just didn't get that magic in Subject to Change. The build up was a bit forced, their relationship wasn't so convincing and the resolution felt rushed. To me the romance was raw and needed much development. The sex was steamy, I'll give it that, but I think it overshadowed everything else that was supposed to make readers see what exactly makes their feelings for each other real. If I don't get anything more than the physical attraction between the characters then there's no way for me to understand their relationship. The resolution, as well as the happily ever after, was nice albeit rushed. I think if I had gotten more from their relationship, I would've appreciated the HEA more.
But this is the part that I did like: their college life. Joey's having so much trouble coping with her pre-med major because she really wasn't into it. She's so bent on making it work because she promised her dad before he died. So she's caught between pursuing what she wanted but dealing with the guilt or finishing what she started because of a promise. I really liked reading about Joey's struggles in her academic life and how she finally came to a life-altering decision. There was so much emotion and insight that I was reminded of my own struggles. This aspect of the book hit home for me. For three years I was stuck in a major I thought my parents wanted for me so I tried my hardest because I didn't want to disappoint them by changing majors. Long story short I made the change, I'm happy now and my parents are still as supportive. Not only was Joey relatable, her story is something I rarely see in most books under the same genre. Even Hawk has his own dilemma to deal with. He's a working student, struggling to get a degree while keeping his business afloat. It was all stressful and chaotic but it's the reality that people face growing up. They were actually college students who had grown up problems to deal with. College wasn't superficial in this book; Joey and Hawk were very much immersed in it. It was refreshing and I love it.
I liked Subject to Change as a whole. I enjoyed everything else about the book except the romance but hey, you might find it more to your liking.
(eARC provided by author. This review is based solely on my opinion.)
February 21, 2015
After falling absolutely in love with the first book, I had high hopes for Subject to Change. Sadly it didn't work out for me quite as well, but I still enjoyed it. The romance was a typical opposites attract, bumping heads sort of deal, and I think Joey and Hawk were good for each other. My only real issue was the whole "I promised my dead loved one that I'd make myself miserable in order to make the proud even though they aren't here." I hate this trope. I can't help but feel like characters should know that their loved one would rather see them happy. There's more to it in Joey's case, but it still didn't make sense.
Subject to Change starts with Joey taking a business class for general ed credit. She doesn't care about business, but she needs a good grade for med school, so she's less than thrilled to be partnered with Hawk for their end of term project. He smells like smoke, has tattoos, drives a motorbike, and falls asleep in class. Clearly he is a loser. Obviously, he's not, but it takes some time for Joey's judgmental self to see that. She's so focused on acing her impossible pre-med classes that she doesn't see anything else. She's stressed and exhausted, and all because she promised her father. Apparently her trust fund also says that it must be used for medical school, and I had a hard time believing her father would make the terms that specific given what we learn about him. It just made Joey's situation unbelievable and predictable.
As for the romance, I did mostly like it. Hawk is not at all what Joey expected, since once she finally gets to know him she learns the reasons behind all of his seemingly slacker behavior. He's struggling, just like her, but for different reasons. The one thing I didn't like about Hawk was that he kept turning suffering into a competition. His problems were so much bigger and more mature than Joey's and she could not possibly understand, since her only real issue was school related. Whatever, dude! School and figuring out what she wants to do in life is important to her, so don't trivialize it! Their fight was also epically stupid, because of that. And he whines about having to dress up to be her boyfriend, even though he only dressed up once because she invited him to a dressy event at her sorority! It just didn't make much sense. However, I did like how Hawk helped Joey realize that being a doctor isn't for her, and that her dad wouldn't want her stressed like that. And Joey helped Hawk see that he can do more for himself and the bar if he just stops being such a control freak.
Subject to Change was pretty good despite all of my complaints. I enjoyed reading it, and got caught up in the character's lives which is probably why I got so annoyed with them at times. I just wish Joey's determination to becoming a doctor had been based on something else. She should have actually read the terms of her trust fund earlier on, but I guess it also took her some time to see that she could work in the medical field in some other capacity that was more fulfilling to her.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Subject to Change starts with Joey taking a business class for general ed credit. She doesn't care about business, but she needs a good grade for med school, so she's less than thrilled to be partnered with Hawk for their end of term project. He smells like smoke, has tattoos, drives a motorbike, and falls asleep in class. Clearly he is a loser. Obviously, he's not, but it takes some time for Joey's judgmental self to see that. She's so focused on acing her impossible pre-med classes that she doesn't see anything else. She's stressed and exhausted, and all because she promised her father. Apparently her trust fund also says that it must be used for medical school, and I had a hard time believing her father would make the terms that specific given what we learn about him. It just made Joey's situation unbelievable and predictable.
As for the romance, I did mostly like it. Hawk is not at all what Joey expected, since once she finally gets to know him she learns the reasons behind all of his seemingly slacker behavior. He's struggling, just like her, but for different reasons. The one thing I didn't like about Hawk was that he kept turning suffering into a competition. His problems were so much bigger and more mature than Joey's and she could not possibly understand, since her only real issue was school related. Whatever, dude! School and figuring out what she wants to do in life is important to her, so don't trivialize it! Their fight was also epically stupid, because of that. And he whines about having to dress up to be her boyfriend, even though he only dressed up once because she invited him to a dressy event at her sorority! It just didn't make much sense. However, I did like how Hawk helped Joey realize that being a doctor isn't for her, and that her dad wouldn't want her stressed like that. And Joey helped Hawk see that he can do more for himself and the bar if he just stops being such a control freak.
Subject to Change was pretty good despite all of my complaints. I enjoyed reading it, and got caught up in the character's lives which is probably why I got so annoyed with them at times. I just wish Joey's determination to becoming a doctor had been based on something else. She should have actually read the terms of her trust fund earlier on, but I guess it also took her some time to see that she could work in the medical field in some other capacity that was more fulfilling to her.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
July 5, 2013
Just like a first kiss, one's first adult relationship swings between tentative and unsteady to primal and headstrong. Alessandra Thomas has scored big time in this touching story about finding one's dreams while managing parental expectations.
Josephine "Joey" Daly promised her father she'd become a doctor--just like him--before he died. It is her life's goal, financed by the special trust fund created in her father's will. And, try as she can, she struggles mightily with the course-work.
Joey spends so many hours studying she may as well move her bed from her sorority house to Temple's library--and still she's barely making a B- average.
Organic Chemistry is killing her.
In Joey's single fluff course, Introductory Business, she's paired with Will "Hawk" Hawkins a scruffy, chronically-late, hot mess who is now 50% responsible for her grade. High-strung Joey is also frustrated by the cold-as-stone Dr. O'Donnell, a pediatric oncologist she's shadowing, who counsels Joey to remain detached from patients--something Joey finds impossible to do.
Like most pre-med students, Joey sacrifices to get into med school, to be the perfect doctor, to help cancer patients--all plans she made with her father's legacy in mind. Driven, Joey struggles on even as she discovers the reality of medicine isn't what she imagined it to be.
Surprisingly, it is the taciturn Hawk--shouldering more responsibility than Joey can imagine--who embodies an open-minded approach to life. Growing close to Hawk, Joey finally experiences the joy of following her heart instead of her plans.
What is romance without conflict, right? Joey's mom plays a role in sabotaging Joey's new life plan, but Joey finds a path that her father would have applauded. And, that's exactly what new adulthood is about--figuring out how in the world to become an adult.
What I admired about this story:
It's accurate. How can I say that? In another life I was a pre-med student. And, in a life after that one, I taught physiology to med students and pre-med students. Here's what I learned: All parents wants to say their child is a Doctor--and it's a lofty ideal that many ascribe to--but becoming a physician is a long hard row to hoe.
In truth, I've known more people who happily got off the Pre-Med track than medical school students who completed their training. It's a VERY difficult career, one I quickly learned would not fit my life goals. Unlike Joey I didn't have a medical legacy to live up to, yet it still wasn't easy to go home and tell The P's about my change in plans.
SUBJECT TO CHANGE is an excellent New Adult romance that deals with real-world issues many college
Josephine "Joey" Daly promised her father she'd become a doctor--just like him--before he died. It is her life's goal, financed by the special trust fund created in her father's will. And, try as she can, she struggles mightily with the course-work.
Joey spends so many hours studying she may as well move her bed from her sorority house to Temple's library--and still she's barely making a B- average.
Organic Chemistry is killing her.
In Joey's single fluff course, Introductory Business, she's paired with Will "Hawk" Hawkins a scruffy, chronically-late, hot mess who is now 50% responsible for her grade. High-strung Joey is also frustrated by the cold-as-stone Dr. O'Donnell, a pediatric oncologist she's shadowing, who counsels Joey to remain detached from patients--something Joey finds impossible to do.
Like most pre-med students, Joey sacrifices to get into med school, to be the perfect doctor, to help cancer patients--all plans she made with her father's legacy in mind. Driven, Joey struggles on even as she discovers the reality of medicine isn't what she imagined it to be.
Surprisingly, it is the taciturn Hawk--shouldering more responsibility than Joey can imagine--who embodies an open-minded approach to life. Growing close to Hawk, Joey finally experiences the joy of following her heart instead of her plans.
What is romance without conflict, right? Joey's mom plays a role in sabotaging Joey's new life plan, but Joey finds a path that her father would have applauded. And, that's exactly what new adulthood is about--figuring out how in the world to become an adult.
What I admired about this story:
It's accurate. How can I say that? In another life I was a pre-med student. And, in a life after that one, I taught physiology to med students and pre-med students. Here's what I learned: All parents wants to say their child is a Doctor--and it's a lofty ideal that many ascribe to--but becoming a physician is a long hard row to hoe.
In truth, I've known more people who happily got off the Pre-Med track than medical school students who completed their training. It's a VERY difficult career, one I quickly learned would not fit my life goals. Unlike Joey I didn't have a medical legacy to live up to, yet it still wasn't easy to go home and tell The P's about my change in plans.
SUBJECT TO CHANGE is an excellent New Adult romance that deals with real-world issues many college
June 19, 2013
I figured I was getting in over my head with this book when, on the first page, I can to this sentence:
Trouble doesn't even begin to describe what Josephine Daly is. A college junior, study pre-med, she's drowning in science classes and trying her very best to keep her head above water. She has virtually no social life, with the exception of talking to the girls at her sorority or those that happen to be at the library while she's studying. It's not until a very disruptive William "Hawk" Hawkins enters her life that Joey realizes that all decisions are subject to change and it's ok to take a different course than the one that was designated for you.
This book made me sad because Joey was forced down a career path that had been guilted on her. College is hard enough without having to have the added pressure of being the next Dr. Daly, in a long line of Dr, Daly's. Sure, Joey had said that was what she wanted to do when she was ten, but her family never gave her the option of saying "I changed my mind" when she turned eighteen. Instead, she was killing herself doing something in the memory of her dead father because that was what was expected of her. On a certain level, I could understand why Joey never said anything or maybe why her mother pushed her to do it, but in the end I would have hoped her mother would have realized what was going on, despite what Joey said, and forced her to be honest. The only person who really makes Joey take a good hard look at what she's doing is Hawk.
Hawk had his own set of issues, a struggling bar and an out-of-control sister, but he was trying. He didn't expect anything from the uptight girl who sat next to him in his business class, but Joey got under his skin. Beneath all his gruffness was a guy who had a hard time with his emotions and understanding love doesn't always have to hurt. He may have taken a few things out on Joey and hurt her feelings, but he always found a way to get back with her because she filled an empty place in his life.
This was a story full of angst and a tiny bit of new adult drama, but one that I couldn't put down. I loved the journey Joey took to discover exactly what she wanted to do with her and life and how what seemed impossible with Hawk came together in the end. Definitely one to read.
At what pH could histidine best be precipitated and filtered from a solution of amino acids?
I said to myself, this girl must be going to school to be a doctor and if she's as confused by the question as I am, she's in trouble.
Trouble doesn't even begin to describe what Josephine Daly is. A college junior, study pre-med, she's drowning in science classes and trying her very best to keep her head above water. She has virtually no social life, with the exception of talking to the girls at her sorority or those that happen to be at the library while she's studying. It's not until a very disruptive William "Hawk" Hawkins enters her life that Joey realizes that all decisions are subject to change and it's ok to take a different course than the one that was designated for you.
This book made me sad because Joey was forced down a career path that had been guilted on her. College is hard enough without having to have the added pressure of being the next Dr. Daly, in a long line of Dr, Daly's. Sure, Joey had said that was what she wanted to do when she was ten, but her family never gave her the option of saying "I changed my mind" when she turned eighteen. Instead, she was killing herself doing something in the memory of her dead father because that was what was expected of her. On a certain level, I could understand why Joey never said anything or maybe why her mother pushed her to do it, but in the end I would have hoped her mother would have realized what was going on, despite what Joey said, and forced her to be honest. The only person who really makes Joey take a good hard look at what she's doing is Hawk.
Hawk had his own set of issues, a struggling bar and an out-of-control sister, but he was trying. He didn't expect anything from the uptight girl who sat next to him in his business class, but Joey got under his skin. Beneath all his gruffness was a guy who had a hard time with his emotions and understanding love doesn't always have to hurt. He may have taken a few things out on Joey and hurt her feelings, but he always found a way to get back with her because she filled an empty place in his life.
This was a story full of angst and a tiny bit of new adult drama, but one that I couldn't put down. I loved the journey Joey took to discover exactly what she wanted to do with her and life and how what seemed impossible with Hawk came together in the end. Definitely one to read.
May 14, 2014
I read the first book in this series last week, and loved it. So I HAD to purchased book two and three, and found time to squeeze Subject to Change into my reading schedule.....early hours in the morning.....and finishing it at 4.30am. Having read Picture Perfect I already knew who Joey was, so I was looking forward to getting to know her a bit better.
When Joey is paired up with Hawk for a project you just knew the sparks were going to fly. Hawk is you typical bad boy, but he also has a lot on his plate to deal with. After the 'sleep over' I did want to slap his face a few times....then maybe some more for good measure. But once his story was explained and all the issues are out in the open I actually gained some respect for him.
Joey is just as I remember her. We get to see some of her spark in the previous book, but in Subject to Change we get a better in-depth look at her, and while she may look like she is OK on the outside, school is getting to her, and her shadowing of a doctor is not what she expected, leaving doubts in Her mind about it. She is stubborn to a fault, and has some very solid reasons for being so stubborn about her education, I admire her for sticking to her morals, but the last change she makes was one that took a lot of guts, and for that alone I had a lot of admiration for her.
Subject to Change was just as good as Picture Perfect, and if you need any proof I started reading this in the early hours, and stayed up till 4.30am to finish it, and I had no regrets about the late night at all...except maybe the lack of caffeine intake. Subject to Change kept me questioning what Hawk was really doing with Joey, wondering what was going on with this duo, and also if Joey would ever finally find her place in school. Just when I thought everything was figured out something was thrown into the mix and blew my ideas apart, and even up to the last chapters I was still wondering what was going to happen.
Alessandra has once again dragged me (willingly) into the world she has created, and while I didn't love Joey as much as Cat, I thoroughly enjoyed Subject to Change. I also really liked how we got to catch up with Cat and Nate occasionally and see how they are both doing. After finishing Subject to Change I wish I was still of work for another weeks holiday, so that I could stay up late reading the next book, but having to go into work with possibly 2 hours sleep isn't really the best idea. I need it to be the weekend now.
When Joey is paired up with Hawk for a project you just knew the sparks were going to fly. Hawk is you typical bad boy, but he also has a lot on his plate to deal with. After the 'sleep over' I did want to slap his face a few times....then maybe some more for good measure. But once his story was explained and all the issues are out in the open I actually gained some respect for him.
Joey is just as I remember her. We get to see some of her spark in the previous book, but in Subject to Change we get a better in-depth look at her, and while she may look like she is OK on the outside, school is getting to her, and her shadowing of a doctor is not what she expected, leaving doubts in Her mind about it. She is stubborn to a fault, and has some very solid reasons for being so stubborn about her education, I admire her for sticking to her morals, but the last change she makes was one that took a lot of guts, and for that alone I had a lot of admiration for her.
Subject to Change was just as good as Picture Perfect, and if you need any proof I started reading this in the early hours, and stayed up till 4.30am to finish it, and I had no regrets about the late night at all...except maybe the lack of caffeine intake. Subject to Change kept me questioning what Hawk was really doing with Joey, wondering what was going on with this duo, and also if Joey would ever finally find her place in school. Just when I thought everything was figured out something was thrown into the mix and blew my ideas apart, and even up to the last chapters I was still wondering what was going to happen.
Alessandra has once again dragged me (willingly) into the world she has created, and while I didn't love Joey as much as Cat, I thoroughly enjoyed Subject to Change. I also really liked how we got to catch up with Cat and Nate occasionally and see how they are both doing. After finishing Subject to Change I wish I was still of work for another weeks holiday, so that I could stay up late reading the next book, but having to go into work with possibly 2 hours sleep isn't really the best idea. I need it to be the weekend now.
June 18, 2013
*This is an ARC review
I first met Joey’s character in Alessandra Thomas’ debut, Picture Perfect. I thoroughly enjoyed that book, and getting the chance to read another book relating to those characters…well, I just had to read it. While Subject to Change is in the Picturing Perfect series, as is Picture Perfect, I liked that readers don’t necessarily have to read book one before reading this one. Though, I do suggest reading both just because they were great.
In Subject to Change we get to see another side of Joey and see what she’s going through in college and life. She’s a determined pre-med student striving to fulfill a promise made to her deceased father. I respected this goal because while struggling through her workload and lack of understanding of some course work, she selflessly pushed on for her father. This is one of the driving forces in her character.
Like all great romances, in walks a guy to stir things up. I liked Hawk’s character as well. He was a great catalyst to Joey really finding herself. While is a bit of an asshole, he seemed to have enough good reasons for his attitude. It somehow worked for me.
While I enjoyed the story overall, I liked the characters, the plot, we get a little view of the city again (I liked that about Picture Perfect), I feel that a few spots were lacking and changed some of the feel of the story. I could have used a little more focus on Joey doing rounds, or a few more details into the project that Joey and Hawk were working on for class, though I do understand why it was a little vague to a point. I think aspects like this could have strengthened a few elements in the plot, as well as the decisions characters made.
I can’t leave the review off on a (very slight) negative note, can I? No, I won’t. It was a great book either way. Alessandra has made her way into my favorite author’s list through her second success (in my eyes at least). I’m looking forward to reading many more books from her, for as long as she keeps writing them.
I first met Joey’s character in Alessandra Thomas’ debut, Picture Perfect. I thoroughly enjoyed that book, and getting the chance to read another book relating to those characters…well, I just had to read it. While Subject to Change is in the Picturing Perfect series, as is Picture Perfect, I liked that readers don’t necessarily have to read book one before reading this one. Though, I do suggest reading both just because they were great.
In Subject to Change we get to see another side of Joey and see what she’s going through in college and life. She’s a determined pre-med student striving to fulfill a promise made to her deceased father. I respected this goal because while struggling through her workload and lack of understanding of some course work, she selflessly pushed on for her father. This is one of the driving forces in her character.
Like all great romances, in walks a guy to stir things up. I liked Hawk’s character as well. He was a great catalyst to Joey really finding herself. While is a bit of an asshole, he seemed to have enough good reasons for his attitude. It somehow worked for me.
While I enjoyed the story overall, I liked the characters, the plot, we get a little view of the city again (I liked that about Picture Perfect), I feel that a few spots were lacking and changed some of the feel of the story. I could have used a little more focus on Joey doing rounds, or a few more details into the project that Joey and Hawk were working on for class, though I do understand why it was a little vague to a point. I think aspects like this could have strengthened a few elements in the plot, as well as the decisions characters made.
I can’t leave the review off on a (very slight) negative note, can I? No, I won’t. It was a great book either way. Alessandra has made her way into my favorite author’s list through her second success (in my eyes at least). I’m looking forward to reading many more books from her, for as long as she keeps writing them.
June 30, 2013
My God HOLY HAWK! I have to say that I loved Picture Perfect but DAM if Alessandra did not get me with Subject to Change. First before I go into the review on the book I have to give praise where praise is due. I have read a lot of NA books and NOTHING I mean Nothing comes close to Alessandra's writing. The world and places and characters she has created sets the bar high for some of the authors out here that are indie. I mean she grabs you right from the very first page and she keeps you there until the end. I love that in a book because it means the author took the time to formulate a story and brought it home for the readers.
In Subject to Change we meet Joey who is in college studying to be a doctor. She promised her father on his dying bed that she would become a doctor and find a cure to beat the cancer he died from. The only thing is is that studying to be a doctor is the hardest thing Joey has ever done and she is not very good at it. She is failing and she needs to boost her GPA so she decides she will take a business class that will help her. When she gets to the business class she is excited until she is paired up with William Hawkins AKA Hawk.
Hawk looks like your average bad boy. He has an attitude a mile long and rides a motorcycle and he bar tends. Lord her radar is screaming LOSER run away as fast as you can but looks can be deceiving because the more time Joey spends with him the more she gets to know the real Hawk who is just trying to survive and keep his sister safe. Joey and Hawk slowly fall into each other they both realize that they care for one another. But Joey's family is not happy with her choice and she will have to decide whether or not change is going to be good for her or not? What will Joey choose? Will Hawk be able to teach Joey that change is good? This is another must read by Alessandra Thomas!
In Subject to Change we meet Joey who is in college studying to be a doctor. She promised her father on his dying bed that she would become a doctor and find a cure to beat the cancer he died from. The only thing is is that studying to be a doctor is the hardest thing Joey has ever done and she is not very good at it. She is failing and she needs to boost her GPA so she decides she will take a business class that will help her. When she gets to the business class she is excited until she is paired up with William Hawkins AKA Hawk.
Hawk looks like your average bad boy. He has an attitude a mile long and rides a motorcycle and he bar tends. Lord her radar is screaming LOSER run away as fast as you can but looks can be deceiving because the more time Joey spends with him the more she gets to know the real Hawk who is just trying to survive and keep his sister safe. Joey and Hawk slowly fall into each other they both realize that they care for one another. But Joey's family is not happy with her choice and she will have to decide whether or not change is going to be good for her or not? What will Joey choose? Will Hawk be able to teach Joey that change is good? This is another must read by Alessandra Thomas!
June 8, 2013
I was lucky enough to have been given Subject to Change to read as an ARC copy. As I loved Picture Perfect so much I just couldn't wait to dive in. I have to say i wasn't disappointed and thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I loved that once again Alessandra covered issues that can/have effected us all in life. The pressure to do well and succeed in something that doesn't make us happy can have such profound effects in life and the peer pressure we can find ourselves under can stop us from doing what truly makes us happy. Joey was such a huge victim of doing what she believed would make her father and family happy that she forgot about herself along the way. I have to admit that when I first started reading this book I was not a fan of Joey's attitude towards Hawk and did think she was a snooty young madam show needed a bit of an attitude adjustment, but then as i read on I kind of realised that the reason for that was all because of the above mentioned. I was so glad that Cat and Nate made an appearance even if brief, and I just love the friendship that Cat and Joey have. I found that Cat's advise to Joey was just brilliant and so refreshing. I have read so many books where the girl jumps to the wrong conclusion and the bestie just encourages the worst case scenario. Cat did not do that and gave her friend great and honest advice on more than one occasion and it just made me love her more.
so Hawk, well what can I say i absolutely loved him from the moment he strolled into class! You just knew he would have a story that would have you gripped but also possibly break your heart in true bad boy style. I again was not disappointed.
I truly enjoyed this story and the characters and hope there is more to come for all of them (and I include Cat and Nate in that !!)
Thank you again Alessandra for giving me the fabulous opportunity of being an ARC for you!
I loved that once again Alessandra covered issues that can/have effected us all in life. The pressure to do well and succeed in something that doesn't make us happy can have such profound effects in life and the peer pressure we can find ourselves under can stop us from doing what truly makes us happy. Joey was such a huge victim of doing what she believed would make her father and family happy that she forgot about herself along the way. I have to admit that when I first started reading this book I was not a fan of Joey's attitude towards Hawk and did think she was a snooty young madam show needed a bit of an attitude adjustment, but then as i read on I kind of realised that the reason for that was all because of the above mentioned. I was so glad that Cat and Nate made an appearance even if brief, and I just love the friendship that Cat and Joey have. I found that Cat's advise to Joey was just brilliant and so refreshing. I have read so many books where the girl jumps to the wrong conclusion and the bestie just encourages the worst case scenario. Cat did not do that and gave her friend great and honest advice on more than one occasion and it just made me love her more.
so Hawk, well what can I say i absolutely loved him from the moment he strolled into class! You just knew he would have a story that would have you gripped but also possibly break your heart in true bad boy style. I again was not disappointed.
I truly enjoyed this story and the characters and hope there is more to come for all of them (and I include Cat and Nate in that !!)
Thank you again Alessandra for giving me the fabulous opportunity of being an ARC for you!
June 25, 2013
SUBJECT TO CHANGE by Alessandra Thomas is a perfect, worthy addition to the New Adult genre. After falling in love with the author's fabulour writing and lovable characters in her debut book PICTURE PERFECT, I jumped at the chance to review her second. Guys, this book did not disappoint and I'll read whatever this author writes next. I'm THAT impressed.
Let's start with Joey. This girl is just the best. She's so dedicated, intelligent and caring. It's highly unlikely that you won't like her. She's very relateable and while you're reading, you can really feel for her as she deals with broken promises, guilt and all that. You can see how hard it was for her to try to fulfil what she promised her dad all those years ago.
Hawk may seem like your typical bad boy jerk, but in fact, he's more than that. You'll find out his reasons and his past (which is very heartbreaking) and it made my cry a little. My heart breaks for him. But anyway, Hawk is just awesome. He really doesn't give a shit about what anyone says and I like that about him. Plus, you can't forget his swoon-worthiness. ;)
The relationship between Joey and Hawk moved at the right pace, so no insta-love there (hurray) and their banter is just hilarious. I love how they can be truly themselves with each other. They're not without flaws, but that's what makes it so great to read.
You know when you read a book, and you just didn't expect you'd like it that much? Yeah, SUBJECT TO CHANGE is one of those books, and dare I say it, it's even better than the first book. It's everything a companion should be and more. This series is one of the best in NA and I just can't wait for everything this author writes.
Let's start with Joey. This girl is just the best. She's so dedicated, intelligent and caring. It's highly unlikely that you won't like her. She's very relateable and while you're reading, you can really feel for her as she deals with broken promises, guilt and all that. You can see how hard it was for her to try to fulfil what she promised her dad all those years ago.
Hawk may seem like your typical bad boy jerk, but in fact, he's more than that. You'll find out his reasons and his past (which is very heartbreaking) and it made my cry a little. My heart breaks for him. But anyway, Hawk is just awesome. He really doesn't give a shit about what anyone says and I like that about him. Plus, you can't forget his swoon-worthiness. ;)
The relationship between Joey and Hawk moved at the right pace, so no insta-love there (hurray) and their banter is just hilarious. I love how they can be truly themselves with each other. They're not without flaws, but that's what makes it so great to read.
You know when you read a book, and you just didn't expect you'd like it that much? Yeah, SUBJECT TO CHANGE is one of those books, and dare I say it, it's even better than the first book. It's everything a companion should be and more. This series is one of the best in NA and I just can't wait for everything this author writes.
May 23, 2013
I was an instant fan of Alessandra Thomas' writing after reading her debut novel Picture Perfect, but after reading her latest work, Subject to Change, I am a fan for life. In this wonderful story we meet Joey, a college student hell-bent on surviving pre-med in order to fulfill a promise to her father who passed away from cancer. She is struggling and in desperate need of a change in direction when she lands the absolutely hunky Hawk as a partner in a general business class. Sparks fly and the story takes off from there.
Joey is a wonderfully developed character with dreams and aspirations that any woman can relate to. She's highly likable and I cheered for her throughout this book. As for Hawk- Oh. My. Goodness. Hot, hot, hot. Every girl loves a bad boy and this dark, handsome, tattooed, motorcycle-riding heartthrob is to die for. It's impossible not to fall for him, even when the drama starts.
What I loved most about this book is that not only is it a kick-ass love story with some very wonderfully steamy scenes, but it's a beautiful story about doing what's true in a girl's heart. Watching Joey's transformation from uptight pre-med student to a woman who is confident and believes in herself has in itself reminded me that we have to do what's right for us, no matter who we might think it disappoints.
I loved this book and cannot wait to share it!
Joey is a wonderfully developed character with dreams and aspirations that any woman can relate to. She's highly likable and I cheered for her throughout this book. As for Hawk- Oh. My. Goodness. Hot, hot, hot. Every girl loves a bad boy and this dark, handsome, tattooed, motorcycle-riding heartthrob is to die for. It's impossible not to fall for him, even when the drama starts.
What I loved most about this book is that not only is it a kick-ass love story with some very wonderfully steamy scenes, but it's a beautiful story about doing what's true in a girl's heart. Watching Joey's transformation from uptight pre-med student to a woman who is confident and believes in herself has in itself reminded me that we have to do what's right for us, no matter who we might think it disappoints.
I loved this book and cannot wait to share it!
May 30, 2013
Here is a beautiful, amazing love story that will open your eyes to the important facts of live (love, health, future).
This book is the second of Picturing Perfect..you dont have to read the first one to understand this story, but you should read Perfect Picture first.
Subject to Change tell us the story of Joey, Cat´s friend. And is about the struggle of what we want to do with our lives and whats expected of us as a person, daughter, friend.. and how we judge people without really knowing them.
In this book you are going to find out what happens when two different people, two different realities and two different worlds cross paths and how to get through all the crap that life throws at you. Love is the key!
I love the story...it made me smile, cry and feel anguished. It made me understand that sometimes we worry about frivolous things when are more important subjects to worry about and that we can make a difference with a little help, that for us would be a small gesture but for another people could mean the world. <3
It´s a easy reading and a very well-written and heartwarming story!
You are amazing Alessandra! :)
xoxo
This book is the second of Picturing Perfect..you dont have to read the first one to understand this story, but you should read Perfect Picture first.
Subject to Change tell us the story of Joey, Cat´s friend. And is about the struggle of what we want to do with our lives and whats expected of us as a person, daughter, friend.. and how we judge people without really knowing them.
In this book you are going to find out what happens when two different people, two different realities and two different worlds cross paths and how to get through all the crap that life throws at you. Love is the key!
I love the story...it made me smile, cry and feel anguished. It made me understand that sometimes we worry about frivolous things when are more important subjects to worry about and that we can make a difference with a little help, that for us would be a small gesture but for another people could mean the world. <3
It´s a easy reading and a very well-written and heartwarming story!
You are amazing Alessandra! :)
xoxo
May 25, 2013
After reading Alessandra's first novel of the series 'Picture Perfect' i was so excited and honoured to be able to read Subject to Change before release and ......
i loved it! i loved it! i loved it!
i never once put it down it had me hooked from the very fist page!
i loved the up and the downs between Joey and Hawk, no relationship is ever prefect but if you want it to work you find a way. I think a big message in this book is never judge someone before you know them. Joey said she would never date a guy who never went to college because it meant he didn't care about his future. Hawk thought Joey was upper-class who only cared about college and sorority life. Both were so wrong. Once they got to know each other thing began to change.
The story is brilliant and there is alot i cna relate to in this book. Such a good read i lost track of time!
Aless you are amazing :) <3 xx
i loved it! i loved it! i loved it!
i never once put it down it had me hooked from the very fist page!
i loved the up and the downs between Joey and Hawk, no relationship is ever prefect but if you want it to work you find a way. I think a big message in this book is never judge someone before you know them. Joey said she would never date a guy who never went to college because it meant he didn't care about his future. Hawk thought Joey was upper-class who only cared about college and sorority life. Both were so wrong. Once they got to know each other thing began to change.
The story is brilliant and there is alot i cna relate to in this book. Such a good read i lost track of time!
Aless you are amazing :) <3 xx
July 15, 2013
This was a cute story of self-discovery. Joey has been working toward her father's dream of her becoming a doctor, just like he was. She slowly, and painfully (girl, I changed my major because of Orgo!)realizes, with the help of Hawk, that she can fulfill her promise while still loving what she's doing, and being able to live a life that is her own.
Hawk was pretty lovable and goes to show you can't judge a book by it's cover (guilty!)
This is a standalone book in a series with appearances by Nate and Cat from book one.
Hawk was pretty lovable and goes to show you can't judge a book by it's cover (guilty!)
This is a standalone book in a series with appearances by Nate and Cat from book one.
June 2, 2013
Subject to Change held me captive from the very first page. Filled with real, raw emotion from happiness and hotness to pass-me-some-tissues crying, I fell completely in love with Joey and Hawk.
This book is one of my favourites this year.
This book is one of my favourites this year.
Want to read
April 7, 2013This looks really good! I can't wait to read it. :)
June 16, 2015
So it wasn't too terribly long ago that I read a little book by Alessandra Thomas called Picture Perfect and it took me by storm and I loved it and told everyone about it and they've loved it and there has been this huge ripple effect of love around me for Alessandra Thomas and Picture Perfect. You guys, it's the TRUTH. So when I found out that she was already working on her next book - like the very second - I was so stupidly excited about it, I even embarrassed myself. I think I did a dance. A fan, I am, because I knew I'd love it. Gosh, it's so much fun to be right.
I love solid writing, y'all. I love it when a writer can take a book and make something GOOD of it, when she can take a story and make people FEEL THINGS. That's what happened with Picture Perfect (because all older girls/women need to be reading that one). So I decided based on that book that I wanted to read the next book, sight unseen. Summary unread. Cover unseen (BIG DEAL FOR ME). I can now say that I've read and loved two of Alessandra Thomas' books and she is instant-read for me. 2/2, ladies and gentlemen. But I'm not here to discuss Picture Perfect today, I'm here to celebrate and discuss Subject to Change, and I just cannot wait to do that.
This excerpt is part of my 2013 Contemporary Month Event and is taken from my review on Into the Hall of Books. Read more here: http://www.intothehallofbooks.com/201...
Subject To Change is the story of Josephine "Joey" Daly and the incredibly hot William "Hawk" Hawkins. YES I SAID HAWK. Just stop for a second and take in the name Hawk because it GOT ME every time I read it. Yes, I realize that has nothing to do with the story and may be mildly childish but HAWK.
Okay, now back to the actual story.
Joey is a pre-med college student, an aspiring oncologist. Guilted into this career path by her father who was dying of cancer at the time, Joey is struggling. Big time. She's barely keeping her head above water and after spending some time shadowing a renowed pediatric oncologist, Joey is actually not really sure if she wants to continue down that exact path. But she promised her father, and this is something she's struggling with - along with the grades in some of the classes that are over-her-head (organic chemistry, anyone?). Because of all of the time she spends studying, she does basically nothing, meaning she has a virtually non-existent life outside of school except for the little time she spends with her super-cool sorority sisters, including the incredible Cat (from Picture Perfect - anyone remember her? - yeah, she's an AMAZING character). Joey could use a little excitement in her life - a little somethin' somethin' - but she refuses to change her career choice because she promised her father, so her classes are kicking her butt. The story begins when one day, Joey is sitting in a new class - new semester - and in walks this guy. He stinks. He's disheveled And he can't keep his eyes open. Falls asleep in class, first day! WHAT A LOSER.
Ahem, everyone, meet William "Hawk" Hawkins. Ahem.
Hawk made an awful impression on the very straight-laced Joey on that first day in classes. Late, smelly, and sleepy. He absolutely reeked of cigarette smoke, so much so that Joey had to turn her head. She could barely concentrate on what the professor was saying, she was judging him so hard (bad Joey!). Wouldn't you know the professor would assign group projects - two people each - and randomly assign people to work together? And wouldn't you just know that Joey and Hawk would randomly be assigned to work together? Isn't that how it always goes? Joey is way, way less than pleased and figures she'll be carrying the grade - she knows hers can't suffer and this guy can't even stay awake - but she reluctantly makes a plan to meet with him so they can get started. It promises to be a tough project, lasting all semester. Time after time, Hawk lets her down - missing scheduled meeting times, being late, things like that. Joey is livid more than once. But then Joey learns a few other things...
Things like: Hawk owns a bar. What? Yep, he's a bar owner at his young age (he's over 21, no worries) but there are reasons for this that might surprise you. Hawk has some family issues - big ones - way bigger than Joey could imagine. Joey realizes that she has been way out of line in judging him. For example, he comes to class sleepy because he's struggling to keep his business afloat. He comes to class smelling bad because he's coming from work - you know, people smoke in bars. There's so much to this guy that Joey doesn't realize - but slowly, slowly Joey realizes she wants to find out. Because OH NO! the girlis crushing is attracted to him wants him so bad she can't even stand it. NOW.
Okay, let's back up a second. Back the heck up! Because I wanted you to get Hawk-the-person before I mentioned Hawk the EYES. They're blue, perfect crystal clear blue. And good gracious if they don't captivate Joey. Even through his stinking, even when he is late, even when she is angry with him - it's those eyes. ALSO ALSO ALSO, Hawk is a motorcycle man. He. Is. A. Motorcycle. Man. With some lovely tattoos. I could go on... But okay! I'm gonna stop here. (Hawk is one of the best book boyfriends I've read in like ever.)
Okay, so you guys, Alessandra Thomas! I'm such a fan. What she's done here with Subject To Change is given us Joey who has this growth from this flailing college student that really doesn't want to do what she's doing to this confident, amazing woman. Let us not forget that she also gave us this hot guy that has some serious issues, is a bit of a jerk, but he has his reasons. Alessandra puts on her New Adult belt, picks up her New Adult pen, and writes the heck out of this story to put these two together so they can work out their issues. Together, they are better than they are apart. Joey learns to stop judging so dang much and see the person inside and underneath and Hawk, well, Hawk becomes better.
Y'all, Hawk has issues, but he has some great things about him too. I don't want to leave the impression that he's this angsty, awful New Adult guy - because there is plenty of that in the category and people get turned off by that. Ms. Thomas doesn't write that crap. Hawk has reasons for the way that he is and I just loved finding out what they were and watching his transformation into the person he became at the end. And Joey, gosh - thank goodness she didn't stay the same way throughout the story too. Her development was key in finding herself and her happiness and perhaps the happiness that the two shared together. Yeah, HEA guys.
Subject To Change is the second book in the Picturing Perfect companion series by Alessandra Thomas - this means that you don't technically have to read them in order but I personally think it would be best to. The characters from the first book make an appearance in this second book and I always think it is great when you know their backstory. Even so, picking up this one would be excellent even if you haven't read Picture Perfect. You can always go back and read it later (and you should).
Alessandra Thomas has shown me, as a reader, that after two efforts, she writes relatable characters that are going through real-life issues - you can find these characters at any college in America, or maybe the world, and they may be/probably are having issues similar to this. That's what I love about her books thus far. They are REAL and that is what contemporary ought to be. The swoons and steams don't hurt either, guys.
I recommend Subject To Change to fans of New Adult Contemporary Romance and fans of books that have college settings. Also, readers that enjoy those bad boys that ride motorcycles, have tattoos, and have names like HAWK will absolutely love this one. Good grief, that boy is hot.
I love solid writing, y'all. I love it when a writer can take a book and make something GOOD of it, when she can take a story and make people FEEL THINGS. That's what happened with Picture Perfect (because all older girls/women need to be reading that one). So I decided based on that book that I wanted to read the next book, sight unseen. Summary unread. Cover unseen (BIG DEAL FOR ME). I can now say that I've read and loved two of Alessandra Thomas' books and she is instant-read for me. 2/2, ladies and gentlemen. But I'm not here to discuss Picture Perfect today, I'm here to celebrate and discuss Subject to Change, and I just cannot wait to do that.
This excerpt is part of my 2013 Contemporary Month Event and is taken from my review on Into the Hall of Books. Read more here: http://www.intothehallofbooks.com/201...
Subject To Change is the story of Josephine "Joey" Daly and the incredibly hot William "Hawk" Hawkins. YES I SAID HAWK. Just stop for a second and take in the name Hawk because it GOT ME every time I read it. Yes, I realize that has nothing to do with the story and may be mildly childish but HAWK.
Okay, now back to the actual story.
Joey is a pre-med college student, an aspiring oncologist. Guilted into this career path by her father who was dying of cancer at the time, Joey is struggling. Big time. She's barely keeping her head above water and after spending some time shadowing a renowed pediatric oncologist, Joey is actually not really sure if she wants to continue down that exact path. But she promised her father, and this is something she's struggling with - along with the grades in some of the classes that are over-her-head (organic chemistry, anyone?). Because of all of the time she spends studying, she does basically nothing, meaning she has a virtually non-existent life outside of school except for the little time she spends with her super-cool sorority sisters, including the incredible Cat (from Picture Perfect - anyone remember her? - yeah, she's an AMAZING character). Joey could use a little excitement in her life - a little somethin' somethin' - but she refuses to change her career choice because she promised her father, so her classes are kicking her butt. The story begins when one day, Joey is sitting in a new class - new semester - and in walks this guy. He stinks. He's disheveled And he can't keep his eyes open. Falls asleep in class, first day! WHAT A LOSER.
Ahem, everyone, meet William "Hawk" Hawkins. Ahem.
Hawk made an awful impression on the very straight-laced Joey on that first day in classes. Late, smelly, and sleepy. He absolutely reeked of cigarette smoke, so much so that Joey had to turn her head. She could barely concentrate on what the professor was saying, she was judging him so hard (bad Joey!). Wouldn't you know the professor would assign group projects - two people each - and randomly assign people to work together? And wouldn't you just know that Joey and Hawk would randomly be assigned to work together? Isn't that how it always goes? Joey is way, way less than pleased and figures she'll be carrying the grade - she knows hers can't suffer and this guy can't even stay awake - but she reluctantly makes a plan to meet with him so they can get started. It promises to be a tough project, lasting all semester. Time after time, Hawk lets her down - missing scheduled meeting times, being late, things like that. Joey is livid more than once. But then Joey learns a few other things...
Things like: Hawk owns a bar. What? Yep, he's a bar owner at his young age (he's over 21, no worries) but there are reasons for this that might surprise you. Hawk has some family issues - big ones - way bigger than Joey could imagine. Joey realizes that she has been way out of line in judging him. For example, he comes to class sleepy because he's struggling to keep his business afloat. He comes to class smelling bad because he's coming from work - you know, people smoke in bars. There's so much to this guy that Joey doesn't realize - but slowly, slowly Joey realizes she wants to find out. Because OH NO! the girl
Okay, let's back up a second. Back the heck up! Because I wanted you to get Hawk-the-person before I mentioned Hawk the EYES. They're blue, perfect crystal clear blue. And good gracious if they don't captivate Joey. Even through his stinking, even when he is late, even when she is angry with him - it's those eyes. ALSO ALSO ALSO, Hawk is a motorcycle man. He. Is. A. Motorcycle. Man. With some lovely tattoos. I could go on... But okay! I'm gonna stop here. (Hawk is one of the best book boyfriends I've read in like ever.)
*********************************************
Okay, so you guys, Alessandra Thomas! I'm such a fan. What she's done here with Subject To Change is given us Joey who has this growth from this flailing college student that really doesn't want to do what she's doing to this confident, amazing woman. Let us not forget that she also gave us this hot guy that has some serious issues, is a bit of a jerk, but he has his reasons. Alessandra puts on her New Adult belt, picks up her New Adult pen, and writes the heck out of this story to put these two together so they can work out their issues. Together, they are better than they are apart. Joey learns to stop judging so dang much and see the person inside and underneath and Hawk, well, Hawk becomes better.
Y'all, Hawk has issues, but he has some great things about him too. I don't want to leave the impression that he's this angsty, awful New Adult guy - because there is plenty of that in the category and people get turned off by that. Ms. Thomas doesn't write that crap. Hawk has reasons for the way that he is and I just loved finding out what they were and watching his transformation into the person he became at the end. And Joey, gosh - thank goodness she didn't stay the same way throughout the story too. Her development was key in finding herself and her happiness and perhaps the happiness that the two shared together. Yeah, HEA guys.
Subject To Change is the second book in the Picturing Perfect companion series by Alessandra Thomas - this means that you don't technically have to read them in order but I personally think it would be best to. The characters from the first book make an appearance in this second book and I always think it is great when you know their backstory. Even so, picking up this one would be excellent even if you haven't read Picture Perfect. You can always go back and read it later (and you should).
Alessandra Thomas has shown me, as a reader, that after two efforts, she writes relatable characters that are going through real-life issues - you can find these characters at any college in America, or maybe the world, and they may be/probably are having issues similar to this. That's what I love about her books thus far. They are REAL and that is what contemporary ought to be. The swoons and steams don't hurt either, guys.
I recommend Subject To Change to fans of New Adult Contemporary Romance and fans of books that have college settings. Also, readers that enjoy those bad boys that ride motorcycles, have tattoos, and have names like HAWK will absolutely love this one. Good grief, that boy is hot.
July 3, 2013
PEPPER & MICHELLE'S JOINT REVIEW
PEPPER: I just have to say that I effing loved this book. It ended too soon for me, and I want more of Hawk and Joey. Love, love, love. I just wanted to do this the whole time I was reading:
MICHELLE: Right?! So my first thought when I was done was that the description of the book just did not fit for me. I really enjoyed this book. But Hawk to me was not "the devil sitting on her shoulder telling her to live free." In fact, I think Joey being with Hawk wasn't the reason she changed. Her need to change was happening before Hawk came in the picture. And she made major life choice changes all on her own. I think the reason that description bothered me was because I really liked Joey. I thought from the description that she would be weak to Hawk's alpha ways, but she was a tough cookie. She's like:
She was constantly standing up to that mean Doctor at the hospital and doing her own thing that made her happy.
PEPPER: Well, I don't think I paid that much attention to the description, but I totally agree with you. Joey was way over it before Hawk was involved. However, I do think he inspired her and pushed her a little more to explore other avenues than she would have done herself. And I also don't think Hawk was too much "alpha". Like he was super broody and pissed off which made him kind of a dick, but he really didn't say how things were going to go. I felt like they melded together very well.
MICHELLE: They were so great together, right? So let's talk about Dr. Bitchface- hated her. My brother is a pediatric oncologist and I have never once heard him say that the key to success is to not get attached. They are children- even when they are as old as 17 or 18- and they need doctors that are not just smart and capable but loving. What a crock that woman was. Ugh. And I am so glad that Joey learned that there was a way to help kids but be happy doing it because there are lots of ways to do that. But not all pediatric oncologists are terrible like that doctor.
PEPPER: Seriously, that Doc was an asshole. I also hated her. I mean, I get that in some work circumstances you have to detach a little, but this is fucking life and death. I just couldn't believe some of the shit that she did. I was so glad that Joey did what she did with the Doc, but I wish it would have been much harsher. Kind of like:
MICHELLE: For real!- I thought Joey was great. There were times it was obvious she was young and sometimes made decisions someone her age would make but I liked her all the way through. The whole note in the mailbox thing- I'm pretty sure I've done that.
PEPPER: Yes, agreed. I loved her. I loved that she was a sorority beotch that fell for someone as gritty as Hawk. It made their love story so much sweeter.
MICHELLE: AND, Hawk was of course sexy and amazing and made your heart weep. As we got to know him better, I just wanted to hug him. Like tackle cuddle.
He's been through some shit and he's just working so hard and I just adore him. He just has so much to deal with and I get that it weighs on him. All my sympathy goes to him. Even when they have their big moment where all their differences really come out, I can't help but be totally team Hawk because he's just suffered a lot and I get him and I feel for him.
PEPPER: I loved Hawk from the second he walked into Joey's life. I don't know what it is about him. And I so want his own book with his POV. SO BAD!! I don't usually feel this way. But he is so complex and I want more. I loved everything about him. Loved after the first time they hooked up, it was awkward and she gets up to go to the bathroom and this happens: His eyebrows furrowed, and his fingers wrapped around mine, tight and full. "Don't leave yet. Stay, okay?" GAH. Wanted. To. Die. Kind of like:
You have this dude who is so full of angst and puts up this "fuck off" energy. And she rocked his world. And he admitted it. God I loved that part.
MICHELLE: Yes! The chemistry between the two of them is nearly instant and super hot. Nothing wrong with any of the sexy parts. And even the angst between them is perfect.
And can we just talk about the Epilogue? I freakin' loved it. I mean it didn't take you way into the future but it was perfect. And had so much in it that I was happy to see that I just was on a high from it. Perfection.
PEPPER: Well, I loved the Epilogue, but my hell I want more of these two. I felt like it ended to quickly for me. And, speaking of the ending -ish, oh my hell, the way he apologized to her? Could. You. Die?! So sweet coming from the total hard ass that he tried to be. It was like:
MICHELLE: So perfect. I just loved Hawk. I didn't realize this was a book two so I would like to go back and read book 1, especially because I think I would love Cat's story - PICTURE PERFECT
PEPPER: I know!! I was kind of wondering throughout the book whether there was more to Cat and Nate's story, so it's good to know there really is!! And I can't wait to go back and read that one.
Well, there you have it. We loved this book so much. Great story about change and finding one's true self. So good!
PEPPER: I just have to say that I effing loved this book. It ended too soon for me, and I want more of Hawk and Joey. Love, love, love. I just wanted to do this the whole time I was reading:
MICHELLE: Right?! So my first thought when I was done was that the description of the book just did not fit for me. I really enjoyed this book. But Hawk to me was not "the devil sitting on her shoulder telling her to live free." In fact, I think Joey being with Hawk wasn't the reason she changed. Her need to change was happening before Hawk came in the picture. And she made major life choice changes all on her own. I think the reason that description bothered me was because I really liked Joey. I thought from the description that she would be weak to Hawk's alpha ways, but she was a tough cookie. She's like:
She was constantly standing up to that mean Doctor at the hospital and doing her own thing that made her happy.
PEPPER: Well, I don't think I paid that much attention to the description, but I totally agree with you. Joey was way over it before Hawk was involved. However, I do think he inspired her and pushed her a little more to explore other avenues than she would have done herself. And I also don't think Hawk was too much "alpha". Like he was super broody and pissed off which made him kind of a dick, but he really didn't say how things were going to go. I felt like they melded together very well.
MICHELLE: They were so great together, right? So let's talk about Dr. Bitchface- hated her. My brother is a pediatric oncologist and I have never once heard him say that the key to success is to not get attached. They are children- even when they are as old as 17 or 18- and they need doctors that are not just smart and capable but loving. What a crock that woman was. Ugh. And I am so glad that Joey learned that there was a way to help kids but be happy doing it because there are lots of ways to do that. But not all pediatric oncologists are terrible like that doctor.
PEPPER: Seriously, that Doc was an asshole. I also hated her. I mean, I get that in some work circumstances you have to detach a little, but this is fucking life and death. I just couldn't believe some of the shit that she did. I was so glad that Joey did what she did with the Doc, but I wish it would have been much harsher. Kind of like:
MICHELLE: For real!- I thought Joey was great. There were times it was obvious she was young and sometimes made decisions someone her age would make but I liked her all the way through. The whole note in the mailbox thing- I'm pretty sure I've done that.
PEPPER: Yes, agreed. I loved her. I loved that she was a sorority beotch that fell for someone as gritty as Hawk. It made their love story so much sweeter.
MICHELLE: AND, Hawk was of course sexy and amazing and made your heart weep. As we got to know him better, I just wanted to hug him. Like tackle cuddle.
He's been through some shit and he's just working so hard and I just adore him. He just has so much to deal with and I get that it weighs on him. All my sympathy goes to him. Even when they have their big moment where all their differences really come out, I can't help but be totally team Hawk because he's just suffered a lot and I get him and I feel for him.
PEPPER: I loved Hawk from the second he walked into Joey's life. I don't know what it is about him. And I so want his own book with his POV. SO BAD!! I don't usually feel this way. But he is so complex and I want more. I loved everything about him. Loved after the first time they hooked up, it was awkward and she gets up to go to the bathroom and this happens: His eyebrows furrowed, and his fingers wrapped around mine, tight and full. "Don't leave yet. Stay, okay?" GAH. Wanted. To. Die. Kind of like:
You have this dude who is so full of angst and puts up this "fuck off" energy. And she rocked his world. And he admitted it. God I loved that part.
MICHELLE: Yes! The chemistry between the two of them is nearly instant and super hot. Nothing wrong with any of the sexy parts. And even the angst between them is perfect.
And can we just talk about the Epilogue? I freakin' loved it. I mean it didn't take you way into the future but it was perfect. And had so much in it that I was happy to see that I just was on a high from it. Perfection.
PEPPER: Well, I loved the Epilogue, but my hell I want more of these two. I felt like it ended to quickly for me. And, speaking of the ending -ish, oh my hell, the way he apologized to her? Could. You. Die?! So sweet coming from the total hard ass that he tried to be. It was like:
MICHELLE: So perfect. I just loved Hawk. I didn't realize this was a book two so I would like to go back and read book 1, especially because I think I would love Cat's story - PICTURE PERFECT
PEPPER: I know!! I was kind of wondering throughout the book whether there was more to Cat and Nate's story, so it's good to know there really is!! And I can't wait to go back and read that one.
Well, there you have it. We loved this book so much. Great story about change and finding one's true self. So good!
October 14, 2018
Loved it!
Believe it or not, I actually enjoyed it more than the first book & I loved that one too! I definitely recommend 😊
Believe it or not, I actually enjoyed it more than the first book & I loved that one too! I definitely recommend 😊
August 12, 2020
Fave Love Story
The highs are high and the lows are low. Keeps you begging for more. Hard to put this one down.
The highs are high and the lows are low. Keeps you begging for more. Hard to put this one down.
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