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If I Stay
Breakups suck. Gemma Davies, at twenty-two, has just learned this. It was also not what she had expected from her long-time and only boyfriend - ever. So when her best friend and roommate drags her out in hopes to help Gemma come alive again, the last thing she expects is to meet someone who manages to do just that. In a passionate night (on so many levels) that leaves her rattled long after she sneaks out of his hotel room. But because nothing in Gemma's whirl-wind life can ever go seamlessly, she soon runs into the man that she'd left naked and in bed just the evening before...in the most unexpected of places. The classroom. As her Professor. ...if only the surprises stopped there.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2013
79 people are currently reading
1909 people want to read
About the author
Evan Reeves
4 books56 followersAuthor of IF I STAY (now available) and FALL INTO ME (November 2013). Unrelated to Keanu, although sometimes I like to pretend we're married.
For any and all inquiries:
evanreevesauthor@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
May 15, 2015
There's only one thing I hate more than romance, and it's cheesy romance
This is what I was unfortunate enough to read:
The way he said hello somehow managed to race up my spine like frantic fingertips.
I have two things to say about this. First,
That's too cheesy for my taste. Second, what the hell is that metaphor ?
Then I had the chance of stumbling upon this little gem:
Oh, the desire that flooded over my body like fire.
Honey, if desire floods over your body, you'll end up like this:
Crispy chicken.
As a parting gift, let me tell you about this literary masterpiece:
Ridiculously hot
Who wrote this, a ten year-old ? ! I have no words.
DNF at 8%
This was just a selection of awfully bad quotes, by the way. There are a thousand more to be found in the book.
This is what I was unfortunate enough to read:
The way he said hello somehow managed to race up my spine like frantic fingertips.
I have two things to say about this. First,
That's too cheesy for my taste. Second, what the hell is that metaphor ?
Then I had the chance of stumbling upon this little gem:
Oh, the desire that flooded over my body like fire.
Honey, if desire floods over your body, you'll end up like this:
Crispy chicken.
As a parting gift, let me tell you about this literary masterpiece:
Ridiculously hot
Who wrote this, a ten year-old ? ! I have no words.
DNF at 8%
This was just a selection of awfully bad quotes, by the way. There are a thousand more to be found in the book.
August 12, 2016
***Copy kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
Out of all the taboo/controversial stories, student/teacher romances are my favorite. There’s just something about them that makes it so irresistible: the thrill, the forbidden quality, the illicitness, the sneaking around, and the inability to keep away from each other. Maybe it was because I expected those aspects to show in the book or because I’m used to reading about those types of student/teacher romances that I felt this story was lacking intensity. Mind you, I still really enjoyed this book. It was just a milder, tamer version of what I was used to reading.
The book follows the story of Gemma Davies, who just got out of a nasty breakup with her boyfriend of 3 years, and on the spur of a moment, goes out to a bar to wind down and party. It is here where she meets Ben, one of the poetry readers at the open mic. It was pretty clear that he stood out from the rest, both in looks and intelligence, and for Gemma, it was lust at first sight.
“He’s like some sort of human/alien hybrid mixed with…I don’t know, an angel.”
Expecting a night full of passionate sex, Gemma is surprised when it doesn’t go quite the way she thought it would be and what they end up doing is….I was laughing in disbelief. I mean, good, loud, roaring laughter because, well, it was just so darn funny! I’m just glad I’m not in her sexually frustrated position.
Gemma and Ben make plans to see each other the next day, but unknowingly meet before their date in the classroom. As professor and student. O.O
“Then, in perfectly insufferable timing, Ben walked passed me with his eyes straight-forward, not a single glance given. He carried our secret like a sealed vial, tucked away in a spot that nobody could find. He wore nothing on his sleeve as he hummed quietly, disappearing down the halls amidst a sea of students who too had no idea. No idea that we’d been together.”
Usually, this part is supposed to cue the jealousy, the sneaking around, and the angst because it isn’t moral for them to be together. I found it refreshing that Ben and Gemma don’t even bother denying their feelings for each other: no pushing each other away because ‘you’re my teacher, I’m you’re student’ thing. I liked that.
There were, however, a couple of issues I had. Number 1 would be the believability of some of the events in this book. I get how Ben and Gemma met, and that they’re physically compatible, but I never understood their connection. What they saw in each other. What besides physical attraction drew them together. Ben would constantly refer to Gemma as an ‘enigma,’ which she wasn’t. At all. Most of the time, I just thought Gemma could have been anyone who was in that bar, easily replaceable. It could have ended up as Ben and Amy, Ben and Melissa, Ben and Jane, Ben and ____, you get the point.
I also had difficulty comprehending the entire duration of their relationship while Gemma was still in school. I’d think that there would be someone who would catch them, or someone disapproving of their relationship to add some conflict, but there wasn't any of that. Besides some vague suspicions, Ben and Gemma basically ride out their relationship unscathed. To me, their story seemed too unrealistic to believe in. And last, around 70% of the book, something quite major and drastic happens. Not going to spoil it, but again, I was thinking ‘why this?’ It was completely random, and sudden, and in the aftermath, I was wondering, ‘what was the author’s purpose of adding this…this event in their lives?’ To bring them closer? They were already attached hip-to-hip to begin with.
Overall, this book was a good read. It provided me a great escape from reality, and was quite different in feel from other student/teacher romances I’ve read before.
3.5-4 STARS!!!
Out of all the taboo/controversial stories, student/teacher romances are my favorite. There’s just something about them that makes it so irresistible: the thrill, the forbidden quality, the illicitness, the sneaking around, and the inability to keep away from each other. Maybe it was because I expected those aspects to show in the book or because I’m used to reading about those types of student/teacher romances that I felt this story was lacking intensity. Mind you, I still really enjoyed this book. It was just a milder, tamer version of what I was used to reading.
The book follows the story of Gemma Davies, who just got out of a nasty breakup with her boyfriend of 3 years, and on the spur of a moment, goes out to a bar to wind down and party. It is here where she meets Ben, one of the poetry readers at the open mic. It was pretty clear that he stood out from the rest, both in looks and intelligence, and for Gemma, it was lust at first sight.
“He’s like some sort of human/alien hybrid mixed with…I don’t know, an angel.”
Expecting a night full of passionate sex, Gemma is surprised when it doesn’t go quite the way she thought it would be and what they end up doing is….I was laughing in disbelief. I mean, good, loud, roaring laughter because, well, it was just so darn funny! I’m just glad I’m not in her sexually frustrated position.
Gemma and Ben make plans to see each other the next day, but unknowingly meet before their date in the classroom. As professor and student. O.O
“Then, in perfectly insufferable timing, Ben walked passed me with his eyes straight-forward, not a single glance given. He carried our secret like a sealed vial, tucked away in a spot that nobody could find. He wore nothing on his sleeve as he hummed quietly, disappearing down the halls amidst a sea of students who too had no idea. No idea that we’d been together.”
Usually, this part is supposed to cue the jealousy, the sneaking around, and the angst because it isn’t moral for them to be together. I found it refreshing that Ben and Gemma don’t even bother denying their feelings for each other: no pushing each other away because ‘you’re my teacher, I’m you’re student’ thing. I liked that.
There were, however, a couple of issues I had. Number 1 would be the believability of some of the events in this book. I get how Ben and Gemma met, and that they’re physically compatible, but I never understood their connection. What they saw in each other. What besides physical attraction drew them together. Ben would constantly refer to Gemma as an ‘enigma,’ which she wasn’t. At all. Most of the time, I just thought Gemma could have been anyone who was in that bar, easily replaceable. It could have ended up as Ben and Amy, Ben and Melissa, Ben and Jane, Ben and ____, you get the point.
I also had difficulty comprehending the entire duration of their relationship while Gemma was still in school. I’d think that there would be someone who would catch them, or someone disapproving of their relationship to add some conflict, but there wasn't any of that. Besides some vague suspicions, Ben and Gemma basically ride out their relationship unscathed. To me, their story seemed too unrealistic to believe in. And last, around 70% of the book, something quite major and drastic happens. Not going to spoil it, but again, I was thinking ‘why this?’ It was completely random, and sudden, and in the aftermath, I was wondering, ‘what was the author’s purpose of adding this…this event in their lives?’ To bring them closer? They were already attached hip-to-hip to begin with.
Overall, this book was a good read. It provided me a great escape from reality, and was quite different in feel from other student/teacher romances I’ve read before.
3.5-4 STARS!!!
August 20, 2019
If I Stay by Evan Reeves– 4 Stars
This was a sweet story, with a surprising depth of emotion. I really did enjoy this story; it wasn’t like other student-teacher books. The focus was on loss and friendship instead of a taboo love.
Lead Girl: Gemma Davies
Lead Guy: Benjamin William Lawson – Benjamin Hugo Lawson- Ben
Point of view: Gemma - first person
Part of a series: No
Happy ever after: Yes
Subgenre: Student – Teacher, College
”But circumstances threaten to tear these two star-crossed individuals apart in the fiercest storm of the century.”
Benjamin William Lawson, a famous writer, poet, and the new English professor. He sure knew how to woo a woman but not in a seedy way. The night they meet he reels off a poem about Gemma that he made up on a whim. If you don’t swoon the first time you hear it, you will when he repeats it in his classroom!!
”And I endeavour to be the most sappy, hopeless romantic that you’ve ever met. Even if it drives you up a wall.”
Gemma Davies is an artist; she draws all the time. Some people class her as an introvert but she’s got two best friends who bring her out of her shell every now and then.
The two meet at a bar and they get swept up in the moment with each other. You really could feel the connection they had; it took both of them by surprise. Ben doesn’t reveal that he’s a famous author and she doesn’t tell him she’s still a student. They don’t deliberately deceive one another; it just doesn’t come up. The next day, at college, in walks Ben – Professor Lawson. It takes a while for Gemma to come to terms with it and eventually they start a ‘friendship’.
”I like you, Gemma Davies,” he professed. “I like you lots.”
“And I like you, Professor Lawson,” I replied. “I like you lots, too.”
Like I said it was sweet, and the situation they are in forces them to take a step back and actually really get to know one another. The supporting characters were really fun too.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I will be reading more!
This was a sweet story, with a surprising depth of emotion. I really did enjoy this story; it wasn’t like other student-teacher books. The focus was on loss and friendship instead of a taboo love.
Lead Girl: Gemma Davies
Lead Guy: Benjamin William Lawson – Benjamin Hugo Lawson- Ben
Point of view: Gemma - first person
Part of a series: No
Happy ever after: Yes
Subgenre: Student – Teacher, College
”But circumstances threaten to tear these two star-crossed individuals apart in the fiercest storm of the century.”
Benjamin William Lawson, a famous writer, poet, and the new English professor. He sure knew how to woo a woman but not in a seedy way. The night they meet he reels off a poem about Gemma that he made up on a whim. If you don’t swoon the first time you hear it, you will when he repeats it in his classroom!!
”And I endeavour to be the most sappy, hopeless romantic that you’ve ever met. Even if it drives you up a wall.”
Gemma Davies is an artist; she draws all the time. Some people class her as an introvert but she’s got two best friends who bring her out of her shell every now and then.
The two meet at a bar and they get swept up in the moment with each other. You really could feel the connection they had; it took both of them by surprise. Ben doesn’t reveal that he’s a famous author and she doesn’t tell him she’s still a student. They don’t deliberately deceive one another; it just doesn’t come up. The next day, at college, in walks Ben – Professor Lawson. It takes a while for Gemma to come to terms with it and eventually they start a ‘friendship’.
”I like you, Gemma Davies,” he professed. “I like you lots.”
“And I like you, Professor Lawson,” I replied. “I like you lots, too.”
Like I said it was sweet, and the situation they are in forces them to take a step back and actually really get to know one another. The supporting characters were really fun too.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I will be reading more!
September 15, 2015
Soppy
It was sweet and like a typical college chic flick movie
This book would suit a hopeless romantic
It was not a book I got totally absorbed in
I found it to be quite boring not big build up and as well there was certain part that I thought was very childish
Not a type of book I'd be drawn to read again
It was sweet and like a typical college chic flick movie
This book would suit a hopeless romantic
It was not a book I got totally absorbed in
I found it to be quite boring not big build up and as well there was certain part that I thought was very childish
Not a type of book I'd be drawn to read again
August 27, 2013
Here goes nothing: IF I STAY is officially LIVE! I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. Anxieties aside, this has been an exhilarating journey. Thanks for tagging along for the ride.
September 7, 2013
Copy provided by author for an honest review
My casting for Gemma:
Ben:
If I stay is a book about friendship, love, and exploring and figuring what the future has in store after graduating from college. Gemma, recently dumped by her boyfriend goes out with her roommate and BFF, Brandon to get out of her slump. While at a bar, she meets Ben Lawson, a well-known famous writer and poet. Gemma and Ben have an instant attraction and connection with one another. Ben swoons Gemma with his words and poems. As Gemma, finishes her last semester of college she is hit with the realization that the guy she was infatuating and lusting for is none other than her Creative Writing Professor.
The relationship of Ben and Gemma is filled with sexual tension since they both know crossing that line can jeopardize Gemma's status of graduating and Ben's job. But the attraction these two have for one another cannot be denied. They begin to care deeply for one another that goes beyond friendship. The book also goes in great detail of what every graduating college student fears: LIFE AFTER COLLEGE. Gemma fears the unknown, whether she chose the right path to major in Art, her life beyond the classroom. Her last semester of college is about her self-discovery of what she wants and whom she wants. Through her journey, she is surrounded and supported with her two best friends, Brandon and Sacha.
If I Stay is a light quick romantic book with no angst and predictable HEA. I felt this book emphasized on Gemma's self discovery of who she is a person and the possibilities of what life has in store for her when she's no longer being afraid. Evan Reeves
***I would rate this book a 3.35***
My casting for Gemma:
Ben:
If I stay is a book about friendship, love, and exploring and figuring what the future has in store after graduating from college. Gemma, recently dumped by her boyfriend goes out with her roommate and BFF, Brandon to get out of her slump. While at a bar, she meets Ben Lawson, a well-known famous writer and poet. Gemma and Ben have an instant attraction and connection with one another. Ben swoons Gemma with his words and poems. As Gemma, finishes her last semester of college she is hit with the realization that the guy she was infatuating and lusting for is none other than her Creative Writing Professor.
The relationship of Ben and Gemma is filled with sexual tension since they both know crossing that line can jeopardize Gemma's status of graduating and Ben's job. But the attraction these two have for one another cannot be denied. They begin to care deeply for one another that goes beyond friendship. The book also goes in great detail of what every graduating college student fears: LIFE AFTER COLLEGE. Gemma fears the unknown, whether she chose the right path to major in Art, her life beyond the classroom. Her last semester of college is about her self-discovery of what she wants and whom she wants. Through her journey, she is surrounded and supported with her two best friends, Brandon and Sacha.
If I Stay is a light quick romantic book with no angst and predictable HEA. I felt this book emphasized on Gemma's self discovery of who she is a person and the possibilities of what life has in store for her when she's no longer being afraid. Evan Reeves
September 11, 2013
It was soooo romantic!!! I loved it so much it was a really great book. It is definitely one of my favorites. I loved all the characters especially Ben(of course). Ben was so romantic, a gentlemen, and masculin. Those are some hard traits to find in guys nowadays. I thought Ben was sweet and he always tried to do the right thing like when he tried to stay away from Gemma because he was her professor and was trying to do the right thing but in the end he loved her too much to stay away from her. I thought it was sooooo hilarious when Gemma sits down in her class with her two best friends Sacha and Brandon waiting for the lecture to begin and then guess who walks in?…… No other then Ben the guy who she "spent half the night with" after they left a BAR(wink, wink, nudge, nudge) and que the most akward moment a person can have. The funniest person in the book would DEFINETLY has to be Brandon. My favorite part in the book with him was just after the accident that Gemma had and she's in the wheelchair and Brandon pushes her fast down the hall yelling,"Go, Go Speed Racer!!!" Ahh I just LOVE Brandon he is a really refreshing character. I love Gemma. She is a great lead female who most women can relate to with the heartbreak she faced in the beginning and all the hard choices in life that she has to face. But if I was her and I was the one who was run over by a car because the guy ran a red light because he was angry about a break-up, I would DEFINETLY be suing his butt for all the pain and medical bills he caused me. But hey, that's me wanting to sue everyone. I wished there is an part in the book that Gemma and Ben got married like an "few years later" sort of thing. Over all I loved this book so much wished there is a sequel to this book maybe not just about Ben and Gemma but maybe about some other character in the book like Sacha. Having a book about how he finds love would be great.
August 31, 2013
finally, a new adult book with some substance.
my gemma:
my ben:
oh, the feels. since he was first described as looking kind've like dr. who, the image stuck. but I loved everything about this book. the characters, the emotions, dialogue...especially anything involving brandon, who was hands down my favourite. whenever he said anything i was laughing out loud.
my brandon:
do yourself a favor and give this book a shot. you'll laugh, you'll cry, and if you're anything like me...you'll fall in love.
my gemma:
my ben:
oh, the feels. since he was first described as looking kind've like dr. who, the image stuck. but I loved everything about this book. the characters, the emotions, dialogue...especially anything involving brandon, who was hands down my favourite. whenever he said anything i was laughing out loud.
my brandon:
do yourself a favor and give this book a shot. you'll laugh, you'll cry, and if you're anything like me...you'll fall in love.
September 1, 2013
review also posted here : https://www.facebook.com/SLiTsReaD
I totally loved and enjoyed it. Grab this book if you want a light read about friendship and love that is beautifully written, it'll make you sigh, cry, smile and laugh with the characters.
Gemma was getting over her douchebag of an ex when her hilarious and gorgeous gay BFF and room mate Brandon decided to take her out. And that's where she saw and met Ben... Boom, instant attraction, love at first sight or rather, lust at first sight ...
The next day, they made plans for a dinner date. But on that day, when she went to her first class, lo and behold, Ben is her new professor.
But this book is not written in a way where the professor crosses the line big time, note the word big time, lol. Ben is such a dream and Gem is no pushover irrational female. They were just perfect.
Then there's Gems best buds, Brandon and Sacha who's always bickering and it's hilarious. I love the bond that they have together. Makes me miss my best friends. Just loved it!
I totally loved and enjoyed it. Grab this book if you want a light read about friendship and love that is beautifully written, it'll make you sigh, cry, smile and laugh with the characters.
Gemma was getting over her douchebag of an ex when her hilarious and gorgeous gay BFF and room mate Brandon decided to take her out. And that's where she saw and met Ben... Boom, instant attraction, love at first sight or rather, lust at first sight ...
The next day, they made plans for a dinner date. But on that day, when she went to her first class, lo and behold, Ben is her new professor.
But this book is not written in a way where the professor crosses the line big time, note the word big time, lol. Ben is such a dream and Gem is no pushover irrational female. They were just perfect.
Then there's Gems best buds, Brandon and Sacha who's always bickering and it's hilarious. I love the bond that they have together. Makes me miss my best friends. Just loved it!
September 9, 2013
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Let me say that student-teacher romances are right up my alley. I LOVE them.
Unfortunately this book didn't quite cut it for me.
After reading other reviews of amazing chemistry, laugh out loud funny, tears, etc etc.. I was foaming at the mouth excited... but then was sorely disappointed. I didn't get any of that.
I found this story to be pretty boring. It took me several days to read it because I kept putting it down. It didn't keep my interest.
What did I like about it?? Um... I thought a couple moments with Brandon were a little funny. The Nick Cage cutout and all.. but far cry from laughing out loud.
What I didn't like?? A lot.
To narrow it down, I didn't feel the forbiddenness from a usual student-techer romance. There wasn't much angst or passion. It was very lackadaisical and just boring.
The "tease"?? WTF was that about? I don't get it. Who does that? It was just weird.
Also, the way Ben spoke made him seem much too old. He acted a bit too pompous, too philosophical and intellectual. Turns out he was 26? It didn't make any sense.
There were also some grammatical errors, but that I can get over. :)
I'm surprised I actually finished it.
Let me say that student-teacher romances are right up my alley. I LOVE them.
Unfortunately this book didn't quite cut it for me.
After reading other reviews of amazing chemistry, laugh out loud funny, tears, etc etc.. I was foaming at the mouth excited... but then was sorely disappointed. I didn't get any of that.
I found this story to be pretty boring. It took me several days to read it because I kept putting it down. It didn't keep my interest.
What did I like about it?? Um... I thought a couple moments with Brandon were a little funny. The Nick Cage cutout and all.. but far cry from laughing out loud.
What I didn't like?? A lot.
To narrow it down, I didn't feel the forbiddenness from a usual student-techer romance. There wasn't much angst or passion. It was very lackadaisical and just boring.
The "tease"?? WTF was that about? I don't get it. Who does that? It was just weird.
Also, the way Ben spoke made him seem much too old. He acted a bit too pompous, too philosophical and intellectual. Turns out he was 26? It didn't make any sense.
There were also some grammatical errors, but that I can get over. :)
I'm surprised I actually finished it.
March 18, 2014
DNF 12%
Of all the ridiculous things I've read, this is one of the worst. At least I got it free!
Of all the ridiculous things I've read, this is one of the worst. At least I got it free!
September 14, 2013
"If there is one thing that I would ever hope to leave you with, it's the understanding that love
doesn't have to last to matter."
Oh My Gosh. Such a good read! I enjoyed reading this one, particularly because it is another "taboo" book
involving a student-teacher relationship but, and I totally mean BUT, if you are looking for a sexy steamy read on a cold
night like the book cover quite suggests, then this is not for you. It was sweet but there are no real hardcore lovin'.
Sorry folks.
Anyway, let's get back to our lovely characters. I think I fell in love with Professor Benjamin Hugo Lawson.
I want him for my birthday and for Christmas. For at least three succeeding years. Why?
1.) He is good-looking. Kinda reminds us of Dr.Who.
2.) He is a goddamn writer. And a hot teacher. And a poet.
Okay, Okay, he's basically perfect.
"He's like Edward Cullen. Minus the stalker vibe and creepy eyes and the whole thing about sparkling in the sun."
Gemma Davies is a 50/50 character for me. 50% strong and independent while 50% whiny and meek. She suffered from a
bad breakup and she doesn't want to give all of her heart yet again to another man. After being dragged literally by Brandon to
a bar one night, she met Ben. The downside? INSTALUST. The exciting part? She found out he's the Creative Writing prof.
Brandon is the best-est best gay friend ever. He is funny, weird, wise and loyal. I enjoyed reading his dialogues
and banter with another member of the friendship triumvirate, Sacha. While B is loud and wild, Sacha is more on the
shy, smart and artistic side. He may form the triumvirate, but he also wants to form another with Professor Ben and Gemma.
The first few chapters were slooooww .. I am itching for something totally interesting to happen since this novel is
sans the sexy time. (Nah, I got my wish on the last few pages, I almost yelled: PLOT TWIST! or FINALLY.)
I think this is more of Gemma's journey on forgiving mistakes that are not her fault and thinking of her future. She exhibited
feelings of uncertainty and confusion most of the time. I'm glad that this one has HEA or else.. Terrible cliffy, though.
October 26, 2015
I started re-reading this from the beginning in October. I thought the story was great. The story is the forbidden love story between Ben Lawson, an Creative Writing professor, and Gemma Davies, his student. The story was cute.
Gemma had her heart broken by her boyfriend, Toby. She and her best friend, Brandon go to a club where she meets Ben. They go out afterwards, and the next day, she discovers he is her new teacher. She is smart, pretty, and down to earth.
Ben is the teacher and he is just adorable. Underneath the dorky glasses lies a sexy man. He is one of the cutest guys that I have read. Definitely boyfriend material! He is passionate, smart, and handsome. He is a true gentleman.
For me, the best part of the book was the ending. I thought it brought the book to a great conclusion. Would like a second book. Overall, an enjoyable read.
Gemma had her heart broken by her boyfriend, Toby. She and her best friend, Brandon go to a club where she meets Ben. They go out afterwards, and the next day, she discovers he is her new teacher. She is smart, pretty, and down to earth.
Ben is the teacher and he is just adorable. Underneath the dorky glasses lies a sexy man. He is one of the cutest guys that I have read. Definitely boyfriend material! He is passionate, smart, and handsome. He is a true gentleman.
For me, the best part of the book was the ending. I thought it brought the book to a great conclusion. Would like a second book. Overall, an enjoyable read.
September 10, 2013
***I RECEIVED A COPY OF THIS BOOK FROM THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE OF AN HONEST REVIEW***
OK! lets start with the casting:
My Gemma:
MyBenjamin Cullen I mean Ben Lawson:
first of all, let me say that I had some conflicted emotions regarding this book because at times it was super cute, super sweet and super ROMANTIC!
I just loved Ben & Gemma's relationship!
But I have to admit that there was a few moments where I considered skipping a scene ...
What I really liked about this book:
- I loved Brandon! I mean who wouldn't?! That guy is AWESOME!!!
- I loved how real at times the book sounded .. I mean with Gemma and Brandon .. how they're trying to get by and work really hard ... and I loved their friendship
- I loved professor Lawson's class and all the great assignments!!! I really looked forward to them!
- I loved Sacha and Brandon's bickering and picking on each other ... it was so funny!
What I didn't care for :
- Sometimes Ben sounded way too mature ... I mean he's only 26!
- There was some mistakes with the book (some missing words,or the spelling) but I can get over that
All in all this was a sweet romantic read and I loved the end!!! <3
***I got my copy of this book through "Read to Review"***
OK! lets start with the casting:
My Gemma:
My
first of all, let me say that I had some conflicted emotions regarding this book because at times it was super cute, super sweet and super ROMANTIC!
I just loved Ben & Gemma's relationship!
But I have to admit that there was a few moments where I considered skipping a scene ...
What I really liked about this book:
- I loved Brandon! I mean who wouldn't?! That guy is AWESOME!!!
- I loved how real at times the book sounded .. I mean with Gemma and Brandon .. how they're trying to get by and work really hard ... and I loved their friendship
- I loved professor Lawson's class and all the great assignments!!! I really looked forward to them!
- I loved Sacha and Brandon's bickering and picking on each other ... it was so funny!
What I didn't care for :
- Sometimes Ben sounded way too mature ... I mean he's only 26!
- There was some mistakes with the book (some missing words,or the spelling) but I can get over that
All in all this was a sweet romantic read and I loved the end!!! <3
***I got my copy of this book through "Read to Review"***
September 12, 2013
I was provided with a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
This was a solid 4 stars. The book is the story of Gemma, a typical arts student who is struggling to finance her way through the final semester at college. She sees Ben in a bar and they are instantly drawn to one another. There is a impulsive night together that isn't conventional. Then she leaves and it's back to school......only Ben is facing her at the front of her class. I enjoyed the lead characters in this book but in particular I liked the character of Sasha, who I felt very sorry for. I did expect more angst during the narrative of this book considering the difficult situation Ben and Gemma were in. An thoroughly enjoyable read.
This was a solid 4 stars. The book is the story of Gemma, a typical arts student who is struggling to finance her way through the final semester at college. She sees Ben in a bar and they are instantly drawn to one another. There is a impulsive night together that isn't conventional. Then she leaves and it's back to school......only Ben is facing her at the front of her class. I enjoyed the lead characters in this book but in particular I liked the character of Sasha, who I felt very sorry for. I did expect more angst during the narrative of this book considering the difficult situation Ben and Gemma were in. An thoroughly enjoyable read.
May 17, 2015
memorable
I am not going to write a review to spoil it for anyone. Gemma is just trying to find her way through life after a break-up. She has no idea what to do or where to go from here. Her best friend Brandon takes her out to have a good time to get her out of her depression. This for me is where the story starts. We see her trying to figure herself out and to sort out her feelings for a new guy. We also see her trying to come to terms with the upcoming of graduation. I really like Professor Lawson, I thought he was the epitome of kindness, compassion and passionate. This is definitely a memorable book and would read something else from this author.
I am not going to write a review to spoil it for anyone. Gemma is just trying to find her way through life after a break-up. She has no idea what to do or where to go from here. Her best friend Brandon takes her out to have a good time to get her out of her depression. This for me is where the story starts. We see her trying to figure herself out and to sort out her feelings for a new guy. We also see her trying to come to terms with the upcoming of graduation. I really like Professor Lawson, I thought he was the epitome of kindness, compassion and passionate. This is definitely a memorable book and would read something else from this author.
August 30, 2013
❤❤❤❤❤
Great Book.
Loved the story line.
The emotion in this book made me cry.
Lovely writing.
Loved the characters.
Excellent book
❤❤❤❤❤
Great Book.
Loved the story line.
The emotion in this book made me cry.
Lovely writing.
Loved the characters.
Excellent book
❤❤❤❤❤
February 3, 2016
Not sure what it was about this book... But I really had trouble getting through it... I don't know how many times I almost quit reading... But stuck it out... Most definitely not on my re-read list.
October 9, 2014
it was better than the movie and I was interested in the fault in our stars so I thought I would be interested
November 29, 2014
Exciting for where she went
September 6, 2013
This is perhaps the most boring and predictable book i have ever had the misfortune of reading.
August 29, 2019
3 stars.
The blurb is a disservice to the book, because it isn't at all telling about what the book is actually about. But that said? This book was a weird, whimsical read for me; one that I didn't love, or dislike. Constantly, I was torn – and for everything I found to criticize, I also found so much that I appreciated. It definitely wasn't my preferred brand of writing, I'll admit; not the language style, not the first person, both things that I tend to be persnickety about. But it was a very grounding reminder that it isn't enough to keep me from appreciating, in a very objective manner, the author's intention and the explicit ownership that is taken of the cliché nature of much of it.
There was a lot about this one that wasn't my cup of tea. Somehow, though, I went through it quick. This one is a wholesome read with almost no super dramatic twists. It's pretty warm and wholesome, very down-to-earth about very normal things 20-somethings/predominantly creative people go through.
I'm on the fence, yet I didn't regret reading this one.
November 21, 2021
Old me would actually rate this piece with 4 stars. The "new" me, however, read over 300 books these past three years. So I can truthfully say, I've read better. And although it is written nicely, it also appears as some effing school homework.
It has everything. It has a relatively good/promising start, full of anticipation that sadly leaves you after a few pages. It has romance. It has a jealous ex/potential lover that is left in the absolute friend-zone.
Beginning. Plot twist. End. As if the author wrote by textbook. Bland.
It has everything. It has a relatively good/promising start, full of anticipation that sadly leaves you after a few pages. It has romance. It has a jealous ex/potential lover that is left in the absolute friend-zone.
Beginning. Plot twist. End. As if the author wrote by textbook. Bland.
July 19, 2017
2.5* rating.
December 3, 2018
I had seen the movie and wanted to know which was better. The book was by far
March 29, 2019
This book was very heart wrenching. When her family died, it was very sad. This book is very good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2019
stop trying to make aria and ezra fitz happen; it's never going to happen
August 1, 2020
Really cute love story. Will make you laugh and cry.
August 16, 2025
Tried to finish more than 4 chapters but couldnt, too cheesy and boring.
September 15, 2013
Maybe that's why we end up failing so many times before we finally find that one person and get it right. Nobody ever really teaches you just how hard it can be to love someone.”
F-ing. Amazing. The writing was different than most NA on the market in the best way possible. What I like the most is that unlike a lot of what's out there, with this book I never felt like I was being dumbed-down by the writing. The characters were quirky and unique, especially BRANDON. But Ben was still my favorite...and because I loved the Dr. Who reference so much, I'm going to spam the shit out of this review with Dr. Who gifs. So without further adieu...
The book starts out with Gemma getting over her "perpetual cheating-faced ex boyfriend" when her wing man, Brandon, decides that something finally freakin' needs to be done. Brandon is awesome, and can kinda be described by shoving a 17 y/o into the body of a 20-something with a major case of Beiber fever and a love for all things Nic Cage. It was hysterical, and everytime Brandon had something to say I was pretty much doing this:
They go to a bar, where Gemma meets Benjamin "Cullen", or just Ben for short, and they fall face first into uberlust. There's some tease-y sexytime that goes on in Ben's hotel room...after which Gemma leaves thinking that she'll never see Ben again. But we all know that because these stories just can't end that way, she does....in the classroom of all places.
Ben is a writer, poet, and super famous author that as others have mentioned is said to look a little like Dr. Who. This sums up Ben nicely:
Gemma and prof Lawson try to stay away from each other, but of course their feelings get the best of them and they end up sneaking around while still trying to not be completely stupid.
Screwdriver = sex in this case, and Ben does a lot of this:
This too:
What I liked about this book was that it bothered to show Ben teach, and his assignments always resulted in really thoughtful discussions. A lot of the development in the characters seems to happen in the classroom. Sacha, who is another one of Gemma's friends, admits openly to having feelings for her doing these discussions too...which I was honestly really concerned might turn into a cheesy love-triangle, but it didn't. Thank God. Don't worry, no spoilers...but I will say, I did love Ben and Sacha's interaction.
The book had HEA which I was glad about, and some dialogue right towards the end that had me in tears.
““I love you,” I repeated, taking a deep breath. “I love you like Orpheus loves Eurydice or the moon loves the sun or Holden Caulfield loves shooting people in his People Shooting Hat. I love you like when I was little, and my mom used to sing me this song that Aubrey Hepburn sang in this film that I can't remember the name of. Moon River, the song was. I loved that song so much, Ben...”
I took another breath.
“...but I love you more.”
Me:
If youre looking for a book where the teacher/student relationship is mostly about them going bang-crazy, this book is not for you, but if you're looking for a student/teacher book that's heavy on the romance with lots of heart and smart, philosophizing characters, pick this up. 5+++ stars.
F-ing. Amazing. The writing was different than most NA on the market in the best way possible. What I like the most is that unlike a lot of what's out there, with this book I never felt like I was being dumbed-down by the writing. The characters were quirky and unique, especially BRANDON. But Ben was still my favorite...and because I loved the Dr. Who reference so much, I'm going to spam the shit out of this review with Dr. Who gifs. So without further adieu...
The book starts out with Gemma getting over her "perpetual cheating-faced ex boyfriend" when her wing man, Brandon, decides that something finally freakin' needs to be done. Brandon is awesome, and can kinda be described by shoving a 17 y/o into the body of a 20-something with a major case of Beiber fever and a love for all things Nic Cage. It was hysterical, and everytime Brandon had something to say I was pretty much doing this:
They go to a bar, where Gemma meets Benjamin "Cullen", or just Ben for short, and they fall face first into uberlust. There's some tease-y sexytime that goes on in Ben's hotel room...after which Gemma leaves thinking that she'll never see Ben again. But we all know that because these stories just can't end that way, she does....in the classroom of all places.
Ben is a writer, poet, and super famous author that as others have mentioned is said to look a little like Dr. Who. This sums up Ben nicely:
Gemma and prof Lawson try to stay away from each other, but of course their feelings get the best of them and they end up sneaking around while still trying to not be completely stupid.
Screwdriver = sex in this case, and Ben does a lot of this:
This too:
What I liked about this book was that it bothered to show Ben teach, and his assignments always resulted in really thoughtful discussions. A lot of the development in the characters seems to happen in the classroom. Sacha, who is another one of Gemma's friends, admits openly to having feelings for her doing these discussions too...which I was honestly really concerned might turn into a cheesy love-triangle, but it didn't. Thank God. Don't worry, no spoilers...but I will say, I did love Ben and Sacha's interaction.
The book had HEA which I was glad about, and some dialogue right towards the end that had me in tears.
““I love you,” I repeated, taking a deep breath. “I love you like Orpheus loves Eurydice or the moon loves the sun or Holden Caulfield loves shooting people in his People Shooting Hat. I love you like when I was little, and my mom used to sing me this song that Aubrey Hepburn sang in this film that I can't remember the name of. Moon River, the song was. I loved that song so much, Ben...”
I took another breath.
“...but I love you more.”
Me:
If youre looking for a book where the teacher/student relationship is mostly about them going bang-crazy, this book is not for you, but if you're looking for a student/teacher book that's heavy on the romance with lots of heart and smart, philosophizing characters, pick this up. 5+++ stars.
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