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Running On Empty #1
Running on Empty
What does it feel like when you die-in those final moments? Do you feel the physical pain, or just the pain of your regrets? What does it feel like when you realize you can't answer these questions because you're not the victim? You're the killer. River Daniels lives an ordinary life as a high school junior growing up in the confines of rural Texas until her boyfriend's brutal attack leaves her both a murderer and a fugitive. When River's closest girlfriends come to her aid, they make a hasty decision to not only help her, but leave their own troubled lives behind and join in her escape. The girls manage to elude police for months, but with every near-miss, River's life spirals further out of control, until she finally hits rock bottom. Realizing she must stop endangering her friends and find evidence proving she acted in self-defense, the girls decide to make a risky move. River must face her ugly past and the one person she was protecting the night her world caved in, the guy she has loved for as long as she can remember.
507 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2013
7 people are currently reading
1456 people want to read
About the author
Colette Ballard
3 books173 followersColette grew up on a dairy farm in rural Kentucky. She survived the high school experience back in the day when Aqua Net was bought in bulk and mullets were cool. That’s also when she realized that her constant daydreaming wasn’t a curse, but a useful skill—one she used like a lethal weapon to combat her frustration over the haunting question: What does the alphabet have to do with math anyway? Unfortunately, her ninja daydreaming skills only increased her desire to write—not her algebra grade.
After surviving the hairstyles and torturous math classes of her high school years, she wandered a bit—even moving to the farthest northwestern corner of the United States, then to the farthest southeastern corner. She finally settled in the one red-light town she started in, where she continues to live today with her husband and three children.
After surviving the hairstyles and torturous math classes of her high school years, she wandered a bit—even moving to the farthest northwestern corner of the United States, then to the farthest southeastern corner. She finally settled in the one red-light town she started in, where she continues to live today with her husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
July 27, 2013
I read this book and it is absolutely amazing! Colette does a suburb job of entwining suspense and a love story!
January 1, 2014
Run, River. Run.
I had a bit of a false start with this one. I'd read the blurb initially, but between then and actually picking it up to read, I'd forgotten everything except, "New Adult, girl on the run, with some romance". So when I began with the story I found myself grumbling that surely this controlling douchecanoe can't be the love interest? He wasn't, of course. That part came much later. But let me tell you, the real love interest was definitely worth waiting for!
River Daniels is a girl from the wrong side of the tracks, with pretty low self esteem. What she does have, though, are two awesome best friends who are willing to drop everything to help a girl out when the worst happens. After a date night from hell, River and both besties flee with a moment's notice, none of them having much they care about to leave behind anyway. Well, maybe River has one thing she'll miss—Her childhood friend, Justice.
River and Justice. I know.
Eventually, after some new information comes to light which may help River's defense, they decide it's time to head back home to face the music. And when I say face the music, I mean hide in her old pal Justice's fishing hut. Naturally. And this is where I really began to enjoy the story!
I wont' tell you any more about the crime or the unravelling of it, but I have to let you know how fantastic River and Justice were together. It's a friends-to-lovers relationship that encapsulates all the best things that trope is known for—long-time familiarity, hugs, forehead kisses, banter and teasing. But then new tension, awkwardness, stumbled words and jealousy enters the mix. Along with a healthy dose of obliviousness. It was all handled brilliantly well and was exhilarating to read. Plus, Justice just made me smile. Just by existing. And he wears cowboy boots! *dies*
There were a couple of small issues of inconsistency in character behaviour here and there, which prevented this from being a five star read for me. They (especially River) would say they wanted one thing, then a few minutes later claim something else. Do I put that down to a writing flaw, or just the characters themselves being too confused to know what they hell they want or what they meant to say? Who knows. But it wasn't enough to really dull my enjoyment, just a small niggle, so I'm not going to worry about it.
I'd recommend this one to fans of Katie McGarry, and anyone who has an interest in New Adult Contemporary Romances.
4 Stars ★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I had a bit of a false start with this one. I'd read the blurb initially, but between then and actually picking it up to read, I'd forgotten everything except, "New Adult, girl on the run, with some romance". So when I began with the story I found myself grumbling that surely this controlling douchecanoe can't be the love interest? He wasn't, of course. That part came much later. But let me tell you, the real love interest was definitely worth waiting for!
River Daniels is a girl from the wrong side of the tracks, with pretty low self esteem. What she does have, though, are two awesome best friends who are willing to drop everything to help a girl out when the worst happens. After a date night from hell, River and both besties flee with a moment's notice, none of them having much they care about to leave behind anyway. Well, maybe River has one thing she'll miss—Her childhood friend, Justice.
River and Justice. I know.
Eventually, after some new information comes to light which may help River's defense, they decide it's time to head back home to face the music. And when I say face the music, I mean hide in her old pal Justice's fishing hut. Naturally. And this is where I really began to enjoy the story!
I wont' tell you any more about the crime or the unravelling of it, but I have to let you know how fantastic River and Justice were together. It's a friends-to-lovers relationship that encapsulates all the best things that trope is known for—long-time familiarity, hugs, forehead kisses, banter and teasing. But then new tension, awkwardness, stumbled words and jealousy enters the mix. Along with a healthy dose of obliviousness. It was all handled brilliantly well and was exhilarating to read. Plus, Justice just made me smile. Just by existing. And he wears cowboy boots! *dies*
There were a couple of small issues of inconsistency in character behaviour here and there, which prevented this from being a five star read for me. They (especially River) would say they wanted one thing, then a few minutes later claim something else. Do I put that down to a writing flaw, or just the characters themselves being too confused to know what they hell they want or what they meant to say? Who knows. But it wasn't enough to really dull my enjoyment, just a small niggle, so I'm not going to worry about it.
I'd recommend this one to fans of Katie McGarry, and anyone who has an interest in New Adult Contemporary Romances.
4 Stars ★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2013
Completely positively 100% absolutely amazing. An emotional and intense book with twists you never saw coming, complete with a great love story. Love love love it!
August 9, 2023
Running on Empty
By Colette Ballard
November 25, 2013
After an accident leaves Logan, River’s boyfriend, dead, River goes on the run and with the help of her friends they stay on the run for months.
The pacing was fast and the book kept me engaged from the very beginning. The friendships were one of my favorite things about Running on Empty. I liked the twists and turns. One bad thing is that it was a very long book, even though it was only about 350 pages.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tulip (publisher) for this copy to read and review in exchange for an honest review.
By Colette Ballard
November 25, 2013
After an accident leaves Logan, River’s boyfriend, dead, River goes on the run and with the help of her friends they stay on the run for months.
The pacing was fast and the book kept me engaged from the very beginning. The friendships were one of my favorite things about Running on Empty. I liked the twists and turns. One bad thing is that it was a very long book, even though it was only about 350 pages.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tulip (publisher) for this copy to read and review in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2014
(I received a copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.)
Running on Empty was a pretty good read, but i had a few problems with it.
It felt longer than what it was. It's a 376 page book, but it felt more like 500.
River made some very silly moves throughout the book.
At some points, i felt like shouting at my kindle, because of the things she did. (I decided against doing that though, might have made me look a bit mad.)
River was an okay character apart from that, and i liked some of the other characters.
Overall, a good, but long read.
Running on Empty was a pretty good read, but i had a few problems with it.
It felt longer than what it was. It's a 376 page book, but it felt more like 500.
River made some very silly moves throughout the book.
At some points, i felt like shouting at my kindle, because of the things she did. (I decided against doing that though, might have made me look a bit mad.)
River was an okay character apart from that, and i liked some of the other characters.
Overall, a good, but long read.
Want to read
July 26, 2013DAT BLURB.
INTENSE. SO INTENSE.
INTENSE. SO INTENSE.
January 28, 2014
ARC provided by NetGalley:
This one started off in a promising way. River Daniels is a high school junior living in a small Texas town. Her life is nothing to brag about but she's getting by. That is, until the night she shoots and kills her boyfriend in self- defense. Just so happens that he's the town's star football player and his family is basically small town royalty. So what else is there to do but go on the run? This is where the story lost me. River is joined in her escape by her two lifelong friends which is all well and good. But, I found these characters to be too stereotypical and completely unbelievable at the same time. They make their way to Las Vegas where it's easy to get lost in a crowd. Running short on money, they somehow end up at a poker game where they narrowly escape after winning. It just felt kind of ridiculous to me at this point. Maybe a good story for some, but I just wasn't loving it at 30% in.
This one started off in a promising way. River Daniels is a high school junior living in a small Texas town. Her life is nothing to brag about but she's getting by. That is, until the night she shoots and kills her boyfriend in self- defense. Just so happens that he's the town's star football player and his family is basically small town royalty. So what else is there to do but go on the run? This is where the story lost me. River is joined in her escape by her two lifelong friends which is all well and good. But, I found these characters to be too stereotypical and completely unbelievable at the same time. They make their way to Las Vegas where it's easy to get lost in a crowd. Running short on money, they somehow end up at a poker game where they narrowly escape after winning. It just felt kind of ridiculous to me at this point. Maybe a good story for some, but I just wasn't loving it at 30% in.
December 22, 2013
Really was looking forward to reading Running on Empty. The synopsis tells you that River accidentally kills her boyfriend after he tries to attack her and then she and two friends go on the run to evade the law. While on the run, River and her friends luck into jobs, housing and a protector. Upon deciding to return to the scene of the crime and clear her name, River happens to run into the father she never knew. This father just happens to be the godfather of the boy she killed and one of the main police officers investigating the murder.
First half of book - good... second half - too cliched and lucky to be believable.
First half of book - good... second half - too cliched and lucky to be believable.
July 29, 2013
Running On Empty by Colette Ballard: Expect the unexpected. It's an amazing story with twist & turns involving one jerk boyfriend, tragedy, best friends banning together...and a turn of events that leaves us all wanting justice and True Love!
July 19, 2015
3.75 stars!
I loved the premise. The relationship between River and her best friends was awesome and I obviously crushed hard on Justice! The pacing dragged a bit at some points but overall I was hooked and enjoyed the twists! Excited about Kat's story in book 2! Full review to come soon. :)
I loved the premise. The relationship between River and her best friends was awesome and I obviously crushed hard on Justice! The pacing dragged a bit at some points but overall I was hooked and enjoyed the twists! Excited about Kat's story in book 2! Full review to come soon. :)
February 6, 2015
Although the story was intriguing, I wish it had been written in Justice's pov. I think it would have given a little more to the story than it did in River's pov.
April 3, 2023
I was actually really looking forward to this book. The moment I read its synopsis, I was hooked!
When I started reading, it looked promising; it had a good murder plot in it, three teenage girls on the run, etc.
It had the ingredients for a strong mystery thriller. Unfortunately, I lost interest in the middle of the book!
When I started reading, it looked promising; it had a good murder plot in it, three teenage girls on the run, etc.
It had the ingredients for a strong mystery thriller. Unfortunately, I lost interest in the middle of the book!
June 23, 2019
I wish I read this book when I was younger. Took me so long to read because I had to process the relationship between River and Logan and it hurt to read but it was an amazing book.
Want to read
March 7, 2025Available in my Kindle app from Netgalley
December 19, 2014
River Daniels is on the run, after she fatally wounds her boyfriend in a night out gone terribly wrong. Her boyfriend, Logan, is the son of one the richest families in Texas and she runs, knowing that there wouldn't be any kind of justice or fairness for her in her hometown. She's joined by her two best friends, who each have their own reasons for leaving their old lives behind but leaves behind Justice, a boy that she's known since she was young and whom she has loved for a long time. Out on the road, River and her friends try to find ways to survive and to hide from the police, even as River struggles to deal with the implications of her actions and from all the danger signs that she had ignored in her relationship with Logan. And when the police start to close in on River, she realises how much danger she has put her friends in and decides to go back home to prove her innocence, back home to Justice who hasn't heard from her since she left town.
I think I'm in the minority with regard to my so-so feelings for Running On Empty, seeing as how most of the reviews here are glowing and full of praise for it. Personally I didn't enjoy the book because of how flat I found all the characters to, from River to her best friends and even Justice as well. And I was also majorly annoyed with River, especially at the start of the novel. I understand that she's upset that her best friend Justice doesn't return her feelings and decides to try and date someone else while trying to get over him but honestly, out of all the people in the world you want to date someone like Logan?
Logan is a guy who tries to pull this kind of bullshit on her by the way:
"I busted my ass to get to this damn trailer park to pick you up and you're with some other guy?"
My head begins to throb. Every argument that we'd ever had involved some other guy and Logan's overactive imagination. "Logan, this was an emer—"
"This is not cool, River. Do you have any idea how many times I tried calling you this morning?" I could tell by his last sentence that he was gritting his teeth.
"I left my cell phone in the truck. I was in such a rush..." He had me so flustered, I almost forgot I was the one who should be upset. "Look I'm sorry I forgot about the Seniors' Breakfast, but Ranger...Ranger died."
Keep in mind that this is the first time we've seen any interaction between Logan and River. We're told right from the onset that Logan has some insane jealousy issues with River talking to other guys and that he calls travelling by her house to pick her as 'busting his ass'. This is the guy that River chooses to be with against all advice from her friends. I just didn't understand why she would want to be with him, given that she does have a support network of her best friends and I felt like a lot of the book relied on me feeling bad for her and the choices that she has had to make. But what I mostly felt was annoyance at her and how much she chose to put up with from Logan before she finally snapped.
Aside from that, I found the plot to be pretty contrived as well. I found it a bit difficult to believe that three teenage girls would be able to elude the police for so many months, especially when one of them (Billi Jo) is usually high from weed and another one of them (River) is still freaking out from her actions. Only Kat seems to have any kind of street savvy and I actually found myself wishing that I was reading a story about Kat instead of River, because Kat just seemed to have her shit together and was the one who kept them going and who had any kind of strategy about what they should be doing instead.
It was also a little too convenient that River always managed to get help right when they needed it the most, be it from Charlie or from the police.
I know that Colette Ballard can definitely write, especially from the gut-wrenching scene between Logan and River right before she snaps and accidentally kills him. I'm just really disappointed at where she chose to take the story and how how underdeveloped her characters were. At the back of the book there's a sneak preview of Kat's story, Temporary High and I think I will be back to read it because my favourite character in the novel was Kat. But I sincerely hope that the book will be a lot better than this book was.
I think I'm in the minority with regard to my so-so feelings for Running On Empty, seeing as how most of the reviews here are glowing and full of praise for it. Personally I didn't enjoy the book because of how flat I found all the characters to, from River to her best friends and even Justice as well. And I was also majorly annoyed with River, especially at the start of the novel. I understand that she's upset that her best friend Justice doesn't return her feelings and decides to try and date someone else while trying to get over him but honestly, out of all the people in the world you want to date someone like Logan?
Logan is a guy who tries to pull this kind of bullshit on her by the way:
"I busted my ass to get to this damn trailer park to pick you up and you're with some other guy?"
My head begins to throb. Every argument that we'd ever had involved some other guy and Logan's overactive imagination. "Logan, this was an emer—"
"This is not cool, River. Do you have any idea how many times I tried calling you this morning?" I could tell by his last sentence that he was gritting his teeth.
"I left my cell phone in the truck. I was in such a rush..." He had me so flustered, I almost forgot I was the one who should be upset. "Look I'm sorry I forgot about the Seniors' Breakfast, but Ranger...Ranger died."
Keep in mind that this is the first time we've seen any interaction between Logan and River. We're told right from the onset that Logan has some insane jealousy issues with River talking to other guys and that he calls travelling by her house to pick her as 'busting his ass'. This is the guy that River chooses to be with against all advice from her friends. I just didn't understand why she would want to be with him, given that she does have a support network of her best friends and I felt like a lot of the book relied on me feeling bad for her and the choices that she has had to make. But what I mostly felt was annoyance at her and how much she chose to put up with from Logan before she finally snapped.
Aside from that, I found the plot to be pretty contrived as well. I found it a bit difficult to believe that three teenage girls would be able to elude the police for so many months, especially when one of them (Billi Jo) is usually high from weed and another one of them (River) is still freaking out from her actions. Only Kat seems to have any kind of street savvy and I actually found myself wishing that I was reading a story about Kat instead of River, because Kat just seemed to have her shit together and was the one who kept them going and who had any kind of strategy about what they should be doing instead.
It was also a little too convenient that River always managed to get help right when they needed it the most, be it from Charlie or from the police.
I know that Colette Ballard can definitely write, especially from the gut-wrenching scene between Logan and River right before she snaps and accidentally kills him. I'm just really disappointed at where she chose to take the story and how how underdeveloped her characters were. At the back of the book there's a sneak preview of Kat's story, Temporary High and I think I will be back to read it because my favourite character in the novel was Kat. But I sincerely hope that the book will be a lot better than this book was.
March 22, 2014
Originally posted at City of Books
I was intrigued by this book as soon as I read the blurb. It sounded fascinating and thrilling, with a fast-paced plot and a sweet romance. And that's exactly what it is! Running on Empty is a beautiful novel, and unique in so many ways. I was sucked into this book right from the start, and I connected with the characters almost instantly.
River lives in a trailer park with her younger sister and stepfather, Jack. She has a simple life, but she loves it. She has a love for horses and riding that she shares with her best friend, Justice. But her relationship issues are another matter. When her boyfriend Logan gets a little too drunk and things escalate, River panics and accidentally shoots him with his own gun. From then on, River is a fugitive. But she's not alone - her best girl friends go on the run with her, and they face things they've never had to before. River will do anything to clear her name, but she won't do it at the cost of harming her friends and Justice, the guy who's always been there for her through everything.
At first, I was astounded that a seemingly sensible and tough girl like River would date an asshole like Logan and let him treat her badly. And she never even paid attention to the advice and warning from her friends. But later we do find out why she put up with him, and I guess I can understand it. Sometimes, all people want is to be loved, and that's how River felt with Logan. River is loyal to a fault, and she'd do anything to protect those she cares about. She's strong and determined, and I find it really cool that she loves horses so much. I've always wanted to ride one.
I adored River's friends, too - Kat and Billi Jo. Both are completely different from one another. It was interesting to see how well they got along despite that. Kat is gorgeous and stylish, and she definitely knows how to use her feminine wiles to get what she wants. Billi Jo, on the other hand, is kind of a tomboy, and is extremely blunt. She's honest and straightforward, oh and she's a little bit addicted to cigarettes and weed. Like River, neither of these girls have a great home life, and maybe that's what brought the three together. Their friendship is amazingly strong, and though they do fight, it's obvious how much the three of them care for each other.
The other major character in the book is Justice, River's best friend and later love interest. I definitely liked him, especially how he looked out for River all the time. He warns her from the beginning about Logan, but River, stubborn as she is, doesn't listen. Justice would do just about anything for River, as we see later in the novel. I liked how they're best friends for ages and then get together later. Definitely no insta-love here! And that makes their feelings all the more deeper.
The romance is kind of clichéd at times, and there's quite a bit of cheesiness towards the end. But I loved it regardless, though I don't usually. Like this, for example, is definitely cheesy but it gave me tingles.
“You lead the way, I’ll follow. I’m the puppet to your strings, the beat to your drums, the sprinkles to your ice cream, whatever,” he laughed. “Whatever you want, just say the word. I’m not goin’ anywhere.”
Justice is so worth swooning over, seriously. I loved all the scenes with him in it. And his constant banter with River is really cute, too.
There are quite a lot of surprises in this book, and I liked the fact that most of them are unpredictable. I loved the parts where the girls are on the run, because those are fraught with danger and suspense. In the latter part, the romance kind of takes a front seat for a while, and the pace gets slower. I would have preferred less of that, but I'm not complaining since I really liked this book.
Overall, Running on Empty certainly surprised me and it's way better than I thought it would be. This is a can't-miss for contemporary lovers. The characterization is brilliant and the plot will get you hooked in no time.
*Thank you to Tulip Romance for providing me with an eARC for review*
I was intrigued by this book as soon as I read the blurb. It sounded fascinating and thrilling, with a fast-paced plot and a sweet romance. And that's exactly what it is! Running on Empty is a beautiful novel, and unique in so many ways. I was sucked into this book right from the start, and I connected with the characters almost instantly.
River lives in a trailer park with her younger sister and stepfather, Jack. She has a simple life, but she loves it. She has a love for horses and riding that she shares with her best friend, Justice. But her relationship issues are another matter. When her boyfriend Logan gets a little too drunk and things escalate, River panics and accidentally shoots him with his own gun. From then on, River is a fugitive. But she's not alone - her best girl friends go on the run with her, and they face things they've never had to before. River will do anything to clear her name, but she won't do it at the cost of harming her friends and Justice, the guy who's always been there for her through everything.
At first, I was astounded that a seemingly sensible and tough girl like River would date an asshole like Logan and let him treat her badly. And she never even paid attention to the advice and warning from her friends. But later we do find out why she put up with him, and I guess I can understand it. Sometimes, all people want is to be loved, and that's how River felt with Logan. River is loyal to a fault, and she'd do anything to protect those she cares about. She's strong and determined, and I find it really cool that she loves horses so much. I've always wanted to ride one.
I adored River's friends, too - Kat and Billi Jo. Both are completely different from one another. It was interesting to see how well they got along despite that. Kat is gorgeous and stylish, and she definitely knows how to use her feminine wiles to get what she wants. Billi Jo, on the other hand, is kind of a tomboy, and is extremely blunt. She's honest and straightforward, oh and she's a little bit addicted to cigarettes and weed. Like River, neither of these girls have a great home life, and maybe that's what brought the three together. Their friendship is amazingly strong, and though they do fight, it's obvious how much the three of them care for each other.
The other major character in the book is Justice, River's best friend and later love interest. I definitely liked him, especially how he looked out for River all the time. He warns her from the beginning about Logan, but River, stubborn as she is, doesn't listen. Justice would do just about anything for River, as we see later in the novel. I liked how they're best friends for ages and then get together later. Definitely no insta-love here! And that makes their feelings all the more deeper.
The romance is kind of clichéd at times, and there's quite a bit of cheesiness towards the end. But I loved it regardless, though I don't usually. Like this, for example, is definitely cheesy but it gave me tingles.
“You lead the way, I’ll follow. I’m the puppet to your strings, the beat to your drums, the sprinkles to your ice cream, whatever,” he laughed. “Whatever you want, just say the word. I’m not goin’ anywhere.”
Justice is so worth swooning over, seriously. I loved all the scenes with him in it. And his constant banter with River is really cute, too.
There are quite a lot of surprises in this book, and I liked the fact that most of them are unpredictable. I loved the parts where the girls are on the run, because those are fraught with danger and suspense. In the latter part, the romance kind of takes a front seat for a while, and the pace gets slower. I would have preferred less of that, but I'm not complaining since I really liked this book.
Overall, Running on Empty certainly surprised me and it's way better than I thought it would be. This is a can't-miss for contemporary lovers. The characterization is brilliant and the plot will get you hooked in no time.
*Thank you to Tulip Romance for providing me with an eARC for review*
January 20, 2014
Overall
Gripping. Intense. Emotional. Powerful. Beautiful. Running on Empty is an amazing coming of age story about finding strength when you least expect, and finding family in unexpected places. River, the main heroine, finds herself on the run with her best friends after her boyfriend's murder, trying to find evidence that would clear her name. The author does an amazing job of intertwining so many different genres, action, suspense, mystery and best of all romance. Each and every character had depth and growth throughout the book. I felt more than invested in the book and characters, but a part of the book. I could relate to the range of emotions River went through during the entirety of the book. Running on Empty was an emotional roller coaster that had me laughing, crying and most of all enjoying the ride! I haven't liked a book this much in a long time, and it reminded me of the reason I love to read and write. This is a must read for fans of: Out of Breath, and Going Under...
Read full review at my blog:
http://beautysinbreakdown.blogspot.co...
Plot- The plot here is simple. Girl's boyfriend winds up dead in a small town practically owned by his family. So girl goes on the run with the help of her friends to evade the law and in an attempt to find evidence to prove her innocence. There is so much more depth though to this simple plot. The author managed to take an age-old story and make it anew. Between River's amazing friends, to River's strength and stubbornness, to River's ultimate love, this book was touching and relatable, if not eerily realistic at times. Once I started the book, it was difficult to put it down, every page was as important as the one before it and the next. I loved the different paths that River and her friends took, the trouble that seemed to find them, and the crazy ways they managed to get out of trouble. Most of all though, I loved the relationship River shared with her friends, ad Justice. The beautifully interwoven love story was also sweet and so carefully written. I am in awe at the writing abilities of the author, the story could not have been better written.
Characters-
I was blown away by the author's uncanny ability to develop so many characters and keep the integrity of the plot and emotional connection to the book. I felt like I knew the characters, that I was River and Kat and Billi Jo were my friends. I was truly transported to this world and life. Perhaps its true that I couldn't quite transport myself because I haven't experienced many of the aspects that River and her friends went through, but the author was able to make me feel as though I was a part of the book, and not just a behind the scenes reader. Truly amazing.
What brought River together with her friends happens to be a string of misfortunes and depressing events, but these three girls provided strength to one another when one was lacking, and stood by their friend regardless of the circumstances. A testament to true friendship and family. Not to mention unconditional love.
Each character in Running on Empty has depth, true emotional depth that the author managed to highlight throughout River's journey and adventure. The strength of these three girls' friendship is truly amazing, and I could only hope to have friends as devoted as these girls are to one another.
I also really enjoyed reading River's transformation. As told by River, it was truly remarkable to listen to her as she analyzed and rationalized her actions, like so many of us do. Her explanations made perfect sense to the person attempting to rationalize a negative aspect. Her shutting down and coming back to life, those thoughts, emotions and actions were not only made perfectly clear through the authors writing, but could truly be felt and related to, rationalizing of course is only human.
I liked that the characters came to life in more than one way, humanizing them even more by providing personality and depth. Between Kat and Billi Jo's wit and charm and their protective nature of River, and Justice's argumentative but protective and caring ways really brought this story alive.
Gripping. Intense. Emotional. Powerful. Beautiful. Running on Empty is an amazing coming of age story about finding strength when you least expect, and finding family in unexpected places. River, the main heroine, finds herself on the run with her best friends after her boyfriend's murder, trying to find evidence that would clear her name. The author does an amazing job of intertwining so many different genres, action, suspense, mystery and best of all romance. Each and every character had depth and growth throughout the book. I felt more than invested in the book and characters, but a part of the book. I could relate to the range of emotions River went through during the entirety of the book. Running on Empty was an emotional roller coaster that had me laughing, crying and most of all enjoying the ride! I haven't liked a book this much in a long time, and it reminded me of the reason I love to read and write. This is a must read for fans of: Out of Breath, and Going Under...
Read full review at my blog:
http://beautysinbreakdown.blogspot.co...
Plot- The plot here is simple. Girl's boyfriend winds up dead in a small town practically owned by his family. So girl goes on the run with the help of her friends to evade the law and in an attempt to find evidence to prove her innocence. There is so much more depth though to this simple plot. The author managed to take an age-old story and make it anew. Between River's amazing friends, to River's strength and stubbornness, to River's ultimate love, this book was touching and relatable, if not eerily realistic at times. Once I started the book, it was difficult to put it down, every page was as important as the one before it and the next. I loved the different paths that River and her friends took, the trouble that seemed to find them, and the crazy ways they managed to get out of trouble. Most of all though, I loved the relationship River shared with her friends, ad Justice. The beautifully interwoven love story was also sweet and so carefully written. I am in awe at the writing abilities of the author, the story could not have been better written.
Characters-
I was blown away by the author's uncanny ability to develop so many characters and keep the integrity of the plot and emotional connection to the book. I felt like I knew the characters, that I was River and Kat and Billi Jo were my friends. I was truly transported to this world and life. Perhaps its true that I couldn't quite transport myself because I haven't experienced many of the aspects that River and her friends went through, but the author was able to make me feel as though I was a part of the book, and not just a behind the scenes reader. Truly amazing.
What brought River together with her friends happens to be a string of misfortunes and depressing events, but these three girls provided strength to one another when one was lacking, and stood by their friend regardless of the circumstances. A testament to true friendship and family. Not to mention unconditional love.
Each character in Running on Empty has depth, true emotional depth that the author managed to highlight throughout River's journey and adventure. The strength of these three girls' friendship is truly amazing, and I could only hope to have friends as devoted as these girls are to one another.
I also really enjoyed reading River's transformation. As told by River, it was truly remarkable to listen to her as she analyzed and rationalized her actions, like so many of us do. Her explanations made perfect sense to the person attempting to rationalize a negative aspect. Her shutting down and coming back to life, those thoughts, emotions and actions were not only made perfectly clear through the authors writing, but could truly be felt and related to, rationalizing of course is only human.
I liked that the characters came to life in more than one way, humanizing them even more by providing personality and depth. Between Kat and Billi Jo's wit and charm and their protective nature of River, and Justice's argumentative but protective and caring ways really brought this story alive.
January 4, 2014
One word….. Amazing! Colette Ballard has an exceptional gift, she had the reader hooked right from the start. There was a few things which lowered this books rating such as many things seemed to fall into place a bit to easily at times but the raw emotions throughout the book make it all worth it. The author instantly grabbed readers attention with her opening lines.
“I always assumed my final moments on this planet would be more dramatic- that I would at least go out fighting. I thought I would be filled with panic, desperately clawing for that last breath like they do in the movies. But all I really felt was an eerie calmness, a peacefulness that wrapped around my whole body like a warm blanket."
She then keeps the reader interested by going back and describing the events which lead up to River’s life changing forever. By doing this Colette Ballard allows her readers to connect with and understand her fantastic characters. One of my favourite things about this novel for me as the reader was the overall plot and the many emotions that the characters experience throughout the course of the book.
River can’t understand why all of her friends hate her boyfriend. She is blind to his controlling and possessive nature. When her mum dies prior to the tragic events of this book River is left to care for her younger sister. Having faced rejection many times all River wants is to feel wanted which is exactly what she gets when she is with Logan. After on fatal night when Logan’s true colours are shown River is left on the run with her two best friends. Being chased by the police for suspected murder and missing the only man she has ever truly loved River must come to terms with her new life on the run. Throughout this novel the author created a dark underlying tension which keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. One of the many things which was particularly good about this book was the final few chapters as they show the aftermath of the trial and the changes it made to the characters lives. This cleverly allows an insight into the characters futures but also the trouble River’s friends and family faced during the time River was on the run.
Colette Ballard has created brilliant characters who throughout portrayed believable emotions which let the reader connect with them very quickly. River is a fantastic characters she has to adapt quickly when her life is turned upside down and she stayed strong with the help of her friends. It was incredibly easy for the reader to like River as she was always putting those she loved before her. Although I really liked her as a character I did think once or twice River came across as acting slightly naïve. For example whilst she was in hiding she answered Justice’s home phone which could have been the police phoning to question Justice again. Justice was another great character all he was focused on was keeping River safe. It was very clear how much he loved her he was willing to do anything for her. On top of this he was an incredibly sweet, caring and don't forget sexy man. Each of the authors fantastic characters had a coping mechanism whether it was alcohol or drugs and in a strange way this made them seem more real and helped the reader connect with them easily.
Overall this was a brilliant book full of twist and turns. Colette Ballard keeps the reader on their toes when many unexpected events take place and new shocking characters are introduced. I would definitely recommend people give this book a try as despite a couple tiny things which lowered my rating I really enjoyed reading Running On Empty
“I always assumed my final moments on this planet would be more dramatic- that I would at least go out fighting. I thought I would be filled with panic, desperately clawing for that last breath like they do in the movies. But all I really felt was an eerie calmness, a peacefulness that wrapped around my whole body like a warm blanket."
She then keeps the reader interested by going back and describing the events which lead up to River’s life changing forever. By doing this Colette Ballard allows her readers to connect with and understand her fantastic characters. One of my favourite things about this novel for me as the reader was the overall plot and the many emotions that the characters experience throughout the course of the book.
River can’t understand why all of her friends hate her boyfriend. She is blind to his controlling and possessive nature. When her mum dies prior to the tragic events of this book River is left to care for her younger sister. Having faced rejection many times all River wants is to feel wanted which is exactly what she gets when she is with Logan. After on fatal night when Logan’s true colours are shown River is left on the run with her two best friends. Being chased by the police for suspected murder and missing the only man she has ever truly loved River must come to terms with her new life on the run. Throughout this novel the author created a dark underlying tension which keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. One of the many things which was particularly good about this book was the final few chapters as they show the aftermath of the trial and the changes it made to the characters lives. This cleverly allows an insight into the characters futures but also the trouble River’s friends and family faced during the time River was on the run.
Colette Ballard has created brilliant characters who throughout portrayed believable emotions which let the reader connect with them very quickly. River is a fantastic characters she has to adapt quickly when her life is turned upside down and she stayed strong with the help of her friends. It was incredibly easy for the reader to like River as she was always putting those she loved before her. Although I really liked her as a character I did think once or twice River came across as acting slightly naïve. For example whilst she was in hiding she answered Justice’s home phone which could have been the police phoning to question Justice again. Justice was another great character all he was focused on was keeping River safe. It was very clear how much he loved her he was willing to do anything for her. On top of this he was an incredibly sweet, caring and don't forget sexy man. Each of the authors fantastic characters had a coping mechanism whether it was alcohol or drugs and in a strange way this made them seem more real and helped the reader connect with them easily.
Overall this was a brilliant book full of twist and turns. Colette Ballard keeps the reader on their toes when many unexpected events take place and new shocking characters are introduced. I would definitely recommend people give this book a try as despite a couple tiny things which lowered my rating I really enjoyed reading Running On Empty
March 1, 2014
So I'm catching up with my reading list here. A good friend of mine actually took me out to see Vampire Academy again. It says a lot that she didn't know if she'd like it originally but then to like it enough to read the book and want to see it again, that is high praise from her. I am sad that it is down to 2 showings a day at my local theatre. Anyways onto the real reason for this update, a new book review. This one is Running on Empty by Colette Ballard, courtesy of NetGalley.
Running on Empty is a good book and a break from the science fiction I normally read. It is a story about average teenagers in the world. The cover caught my eye because, I'll admit, it made me think of a serial killer movie holding females in the basement dark enclosed space but one exit filled with light. That's not what the story is about but that is how my mind worked. The story is of a girl who is forced to flee the only life she's known, and her two best friends go along with her. All for one and one for all kind of mentality and I adore that, the loyalty of those few true friends who when it counts are there through anything.
Now if the summary wasn't clear enough this book does have a few more adult themes for those who are a bit squeamish. But overall the story is a tale of discovery. Finding oneself in the midst of everything falling apart around her, River is forced to take a hard look at who she is, what her life is, and where she wants it to go from there. It is also a tale of relationships, not simply romance but of friendship. I had a great time reading and seeing how each of them reacted to things, each bonded over different events in their life, not always agreeing with the other but always there through thick and thin. That is a bond I can appreciate.
The story also resonated with the small town feel and how no matter the truth, if you have enough money and power you can get what you want. Truth and justice are in the eye of the one with the power. Where it would make sense to just do the simple and right thing, might not be the right thing. The whole story is through River's head so you get a good feel for her and how she feels of course, but you also get an even better view of her by those she keeps dear. I've always found it to be at least partially true, you can tell what type of person someone is by the company they keep. Her friends, help shape who she is as a character as well as flushing themselves out to be unique and different.
There is also a romance aspect to this, and you know I'm a sucker for a good romance. Though this one has it, it was not the central front and center aspect and if you think about it if it had been done that way then I would have found it hard to enjoy, I can't explain that part well without providing many spoilers so you'll just have to trust me. Instead it was a suspenseful story that has many different aspects to it, different relationships. The bonds of friendship, the bonds that we hold ourselves to. I was eager to keep reading to see what would unfold between the characters. For the day or so it took me to read this I was completely immersed with the story and the characters.
http://functioninginsanity.blogspot.c...
Running on Empty is a good book and a break from the science fiction I normally read. It is a story about average teenagers in the world. The cover caught my eye because, I'll admit, it made me think of a serial killer movie holding females in the basement dark enclosed space but one exit filled with light. That's not what the story is about but that is how my mind worked. The story is of a girl who is forced to flee the only life she's known, and her two best friends go along with her. All for one and one for all kind of mentality and I adore that, the loyalty of those few true friends who when it counts are there through anything.
Now if the summary wasn't clear enough this book does have a few more adult themes for those who are a bit squeamish. But overall the story is a tale of discovery. Finding oneself in the midst of everything falling apart around her, River is forced to take a hard look at who she is, what her life is, and where she wants it to go from there. It is also a tale of relationships, not simply romance but of friendship. I had a great time reading and seeing how each of them reacted to things, each bonded over different events in their life, not always agreeing with the other but always there through thick and thin. That is a bond I can appreciate.
The story also resonated with the small town feel and how no matter the truth, if you have enough money and power you can get what you want. Truth and justice are in the eye of the one with the power. Where it would make sense to just do the simple and right thing, might not be the right thing. The whole story is through River's head so you get a good feel for her and how she feels of course, but you also get an even better view of her by those she keeps dear. I've always found it to be at least partially true, you can tell what type of person someone is by the company they keep. Her friends, help shape who she is as a character as well as flushing themselves out to be unique and different.
There is also a romance aspect to this, and you know I'm a sucker for a good romance. Though this one has it, it was not the central front and center aspect and if you think about it if it had been done that way then I would have found it hard to enjoy, I can't explain that part well without providing many spoilers so you'll just have to trust me. Instead it was a suspenseful story that has many different aspects to it, different relationships. The bonds of friendship, the bonds that we hold ourselves to. I was eager to keep reading to see what would unfold between the characters. For the day or so it took me to read this I was completely immersed with the story and the characters.
http://functioninginsanity.blogspot.c...
January 4, 2014
Universal truths:
a. Runny eggs are raw. Eating them is barbaric, but that does not make a lesser person of you, just a lesser human.
b. Bieber is shit.
c. NA is, more often than not, shit.
d. It's also usually offensive, to my own delicate sensitivities.
Personal truth:
a. When-a too seldom when-ever I come across a non-offensive NA, my aforementioned delicate sensitivities go into hyper-drive and I xoxo that book, paying no heed to the quality of writing, plot, characters etc. The fact that it also happens to be a good book is a coincidence, surely... is what me used to think.
b.Running on Empty wasn't all that bad, but I did not have to go back for a re-read to determine it wasn't a good book, simply one straddling the edge of the really thick line between good and bad. It was more trite, actually. And cheesy. And of course that's how it happens because obviously.
c. I really have no idea how to turn off those silly little switches. To paraphrase, if you know what I mean.
So, River Daniels' story is that she kills her rich, manipulative, asshole rapist of a boyfriend and runs away. This is the key to events unlocked. River's two best friends- Billi Jo and whose-name-I-don't-remember(WNIDR, for short)- convince her o ruuuuunnnn away with her into the moonlight, moonset, sunset and dawn. This is the part I liked, in a relative sense.
River is distraught and that comes across, but it seems that it's more because of the ramifications, the dwindling cash pile, sleeping in cars, seedy motels and lack of jobs. That would be all the same to me except she kept throwing in my face it was guilt for killing the asshole and secondary, getting her friends into the mess. But I reconciled with it, for this is the part I enjoyed. When it was about her and friends trying to make way, find way in the bad part of Las Vegas. Getting tired of each others' shit, desperate.
Until, that is, a kind, forlorn man with sad tales to tell that they happen upon and into decides he'd much rather help them. And goes OUT of his way to help them.
Now I'm all for kindness and shit, but I'm getting tired of it barging in at the most opportune moment; they shoulda paved their own fucking way, methinks. But hey, all is still good. For the first third of the book.
After that, it's roomanncciinnnng time. No thank you.
By this point, Mr Justice comes to town. Or rather they go back. He's a childhood friend of hers, and we all know how the story goes. Liked her, liked him, never had a clue. Lots of dancing around, worrying, comments and innuendos and hints from friends who suddenly, inexplicably have no more a role to play; stretching the story to limits better left alone. Lots of lack of chemistry, and hotness, but much more already there compatibility, or so she told me.
Really, shoulda gotten over with it looooooooong time ago.
But hey, not really offensive, excepting for the Billi Jo part, 'cause I don't think her friends treat her right. Always a plus, no?
thank you, netgalley!
a. Runny eggs are raw. Eating them is barbaric, but that does not make a lesser person of you, just a lesser human.
b. Bieber is shit.
c. NA is, more often than not, shit.
d. It's also usually offensive, to my own delicate sensitivities.
Personal truth:
a. When-a too seldom when-ever I come across a non-offensive NA, my aforementioned delicate sensitivities go into hyper-drive and I xoxo that book, paying no heed to the quality of writing, plot, characters etc. The fact that it also happens to be a good book is a coincidence, surely... is what me used to think.
b.Running on Empty wasn't all that bad, but I did not have to go back for a re-read to determine it wasn't a good book, simply one straddling the edge of the really thick line between good and bad. It was more trite, actually. And cheesy. And of course that's how it happens because obviously.
c. I really have no idea how to turn off those silly little switches. To paraphrase, if you know what I mean.
So, River Daniels' story is that she kills her rich, manipulative, asshole rapist of a boyfriend and runs away. This is the key to events unlocked. River's two best friends- Billi Jo and whose-name-I-don't-remember(WNIDR, for short)- convince her o ruuuuunnnn away with her into the moonlight, moonset, sunset and dawn. This is the part I liked, in a relative sense.
River is distraught and that comes across, but it seems that it's more because of the ramifications, the dwindling cash pile, sleeping in cars, seedy motels and lack of jobs. That would be all the same to me except she kept throwing in my face it was guilt for killing the asshole and secondary, getting her friends into the mess. But I reconciled with it, for this is the part I enjoyed. When it was about her and friends trying to make way, find way in the bad part of Las Vegas. Getting tired of each others' shit, desperate.
Until, that is, a kind, forlorn man with sad tales to tell that they happen upon and into decides he'd much rather help them. And goes OUT of his way to help them.
Now I'm all for kindness and shit, but I'm getting tired of it barging in at the most opportune moment; they shoulda paved their own fucking way, methinks. But hey, all is still good. For the first third of the book.
After that, it's roomanncciinnnng time. No thank you.
By this point, Mr Justice comes to town. Or rather they go back. He's a childhood friend of hers, and we all know how the story goes. Liked her, liked him, never had a clue. Lots of dancing around, worrying, comments and innuendos and hints from friends who suddenly, inexplicably have no more a role to play; stretching the story to limits better left alone. Lots of lack of chemistry, and hotness, but much more already there compatibility, or so she told me.
Really, shoulda gotten over with it looooooooong time ago.
But hey, not really offensive, excepting for the Billi Jo part, 'cause I don't think her friends treat her right. Always a plus, no?
thank you, netgalley!
January 24, 2014
Running on Empty is an intense mix of suspense and romance. River, a girl from the trailer park with low self esteem, somehow ends up with the rich, popular, football player from the other side of town, Logan. Even though her friends try to make her see Logan for the jealous, controlling, dangerous guy that he is, she is blinded by what she believes is love. All the while, she's in love with her best friend, Justice, even though she is convinced he doesn't feel the same. All that changes one night after a party, when in the midst of a brutal attack by Logan, she kills him in self defense. Given his family's connections in town, her friends, Kat and Billie Jo, convince her to run away until they can find the evidence to clear her name. The girls set off for Vegas and hide out until they uncover a potential piece of evidence that could save River.
This could have been an amazing read, but little flaws here and there kept it from reaching its full potential. I'll start with the positive. First off, I loved the way the book started. It really drew me in emotionally. The part with Logan during the assault was intense and gripping. Extremely well written scene. I really liked most of the characters. River, Justice, Kat and Billie Jo were all so likeable and realistic. The author did a great job with the friendship between the girls. You could see why they were friends. And it was the kind of friendship I like to read about. As for Justice and River, well let's just say that I would have loved that relationship no matter how it turned out. They worked well as friends, and also had me dying for them to get together.
Now, time for the negatives. Justice and River frustrated me. River, in particular, reacted sometimes in completely insane ways that just made me want to slap her. I waited for the first kiss patiently, and then, when it happened, it was actually a bit of a letdown. There wasn't much payoff for such a long wait, but I did love how they interacted for the most part. Also, the book was just way too long. Parts of the story probably could have been completely eliminated and it wouldn't have hurt the main story one bit. I think if it had been trimmed down some, the flow of the story would have been better. Some of the characters just didn't get developed enough either. You end up not knowing very much about River's sister (which funny enough, as I'm writing this, for the life of me I can't remember her name at all) or her step dad, Jack. I also felt like Kat and Billie Jo were kind of cheated in the second half of the book. In the first half, it's all about the three girls on the run, then when they return the focus almost completely shifts to Justice and River. Which I still loved, but would have appreciated for Bille Jo and Kat's storylines to be tied up better. I would have loved to have gotten more info on what happened after the trial was over.
Overall, I still loved the book. The writing was actually very good and kept me engaged. I wish it would have been shorter, but I still really enjoyed it.
*I received this eARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
This could have been an amazing read, but little flaws here and there kept it from reaching its full potential. I'll start with the positive. First off, I loved the way the book started. It really drew me in emotionally. The part with Logan during the assault was intense and gripping. Extremely well written scene. I really liked most of the characters. River, Justice, Kat and Billie Jo were all so likeable and realistic. The author did a great job with the friendship between the girls. You could see why they were friends. And it was the kind of friendship I like to read about. As for Justice and River, well let's just say that I would have loved that relationship no matter how it turned out. They worked well as friends, and also had me dying for them to get together.
Now, time for the negatives. Justice and River frustrated me. River, in particular, reacted sometimes in completely insane ways that just made me want to slap her. I waited for the first kiss patiently, and then, when it happened, it was actually a bit of a letdown. There wasn't much payoff for such a long wait, but I did love how they interacted for the most part. Also, the book was just way too long. Parts of the story probably could have been completely eliminated and it wouldn't have hurt the main story one bit. I think if it had been trimmed down some, the flow of the story would have been better. Some of the characters just didn't get developed enough either. You end up not knowing very much about River's sister (which funny enough, as I'm writing this, for the life of me I can't remember her name at all) or her step dad, Jack. I also felt like Kat and Billie Jo were kind of cheated in the second half of the book. In the first half, it's all about the three girls on the run, then when they return the focus almost completely shifts to Justice and River. Which I still loved, but would have appreciated for Bille Jo and Kat's storylines to be tied up better. I would have loved to have gotten more info on what happened after the trial was over.
Overall, I still loved the book. The writing was actually very good and kept me engaged. I wish it would have been shorter, but I still really enjoyed it.
*I received this eARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
February 3, 2014
My copy was provided to me by Netgalley.
This book is all about fighting against the whole world when everyone is against you. This book felt so real to me because it can actually happen. It could have happened to anyone.
River's boyfriend is a possessive, jealous guy who went too far one night. River didn't have any other choice but to defend herself. Except this accident cost someone's life. But a self-defense charge isn't very easy to get in River's town. Her boyfriend is the son of a very influential man with a lot of money. He owns half the town, including the police department. If he had it his way, River would be locked up for life.
So she does the only thing she could think of: she ran.
With the help of her two best friends, they elude the police until River finally gains the courage to fight back. But while getting the courage was half the battle, River still has to get others to believe her even when everyone thinks she is a cold blooded killer.
I love the relationships between all the characters, especially the one between River and Justice. Justice had been River's best friend for years, but they grew apart when River started dating her boyfriend and he grew unnecessarily jealous of Justice. I loved the banter between the two and the way they were always teasing each other. The conversations made me laugh out loud.
I love how their relationship progressed and got stronger throughout the whole book. Justice believed in River the whole time, ready to defend and help her no matter what. He never believed for one second that she was a killer.
Her friends are fun and they always wanted to help River. They both had issues, far worse than what River went through with her boyfriend. But these friends both overcame their troubles and helped River gain the courage to fight back. I felt that they were kinda just there in the second half of the novel. They didn't really help out except to help River with her relationship with Justice.
River made some pretty stupid decisions and I shouted at her for ignoring the consequences of her actions. She did have reasons for her hasty decisions considering she had accidently killed her boyfriend.
I liked how the troubles of the murder intertwined with River's unexpected quest for her birth father. It all tied together nicely even though it seemed a bit too coincidental at times.
I also felt like the ending skipped over some details and went too fast. The whole book led to a very important scene in the ending, but it only lasted a few pages before being over with and forgotten.
I love this book and all the action in it as well as the life lesson that you can defeat all the odds as long as you believe in yourself and have people who love you to back you up.
This was a very emotional and intense book. It kept me entertained the whole time with twists I never expected and I would definitely read it again.
This book is all about fighting against the whole world when everyone is against you. This book felt so real to me because it can actually happen. It could have happened to anyone.
River's boyfriend is a possessive, jealous guy who went too far one night. River didn't have any other choice but to defend herself. Except this accident cost someone's life. But a self-defense charge isn't very easy to get in River's town. Her boyfriend is the son of a very influential man with a lot of money. He owns half the town, including the police department. If he had it his way, River would be locked up for life.
So she does the only thing she could think of: she ran.
With the help of her two best friends, they elude the police until River finally gains the courage to fight back. But while getting the courage was half the battle, River still has to get others to believe her even when everyone thinks she is a cold blooded killer.
I love the relationships between all the characters, especially the one between River and Justice. Justice had been River's best friend for years, but they grew apart when River started dating her boyfriend and he grew unnecessarily jealous of Justice. I loved the banter between the two and the way they were always teasing each other. The conversations made me laugh out loud.
I love how their relationship progressed and got stronger throughout the whole book. Justice believed in River the whole time, ready to defend and help her no matter what. He never believed for one second that she was a killer.
Her friends are fun and they always wanted to help River. They both had issues, far worse than what River went through with her boyfriend. But these friends both overcame their troubles and helped River gain the courage to fight back. I felt that they were kinda just there in the second half of the novel. They didn't really help out except to help River with her relationship with Justice.
River made some pretty stupid decisions and I shouted at her for ignoring the consequences of her actions. She did have reasons for her hasty decisions considering she had accidently killed her boyfriend.
I liked how the troubles of the murder intertwined with River's unexpected quest for her birth father. It all tied together nicely even though it seemed a bit too coincidental at times.
I also felt like the ending skipped over some details and went too fast. The whole book led to a very important scene in the ending, but it only lasted a few pages before being over with and forgotten.
I love this book and all the action in it as well as the life lesson that you can defeat all the odds as long as you believe in yourself and have people who love you to back you up.
This was a very emotional and intense book. It kept me entertained the whole time with twists I never expected and I would definitely read it again.
March 2, 2014
"I want you to be my forever"
This book had my hooked from beginning to end. I loved how it had everything in it......Suspense, Comedy and Romance. What more could you ask for. This book was totally different from most YA novels I have read, but in a very good way. I literally couldn't put the book down.The story itself kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't wait turn the page to see what would happen next. I felt so many emotions reading this book. I love when authors can make me feel what the characters are going through. I cried, got angry, laughed and swooned.
Every single character in this book kept the story entertaining. The main character River is one of my favorite characters. She is smart, funny, loving and has a huge heart. She goes through so much, but still puts her family and best friends needs above her own and I loved that. What really got me was her growth throughout the story. She definitely learns from her mistakes and learns life lessons that will forever change her. There are so many great characters in this book and I loved them all, except one. That would be Logan. He is the reason why Rivers life takes a huge nose dive for the worst. His character was very complex and makes you wonder why on earth River would go for someone like that. But the story goes on and we get more loveable characters such as her two best friends Kat and Billi Jo. They were definitely true friends, who stuck by her through the bad and the good. They were loyal to her to the very end and showed me what true friendship really is. Billi Jo's character had me laughing so much throughout the book, she is definitely one of my favorites. Now onto another favorite of mine, the swoon worthy Justice. Hmm, where to start. I absolutely adored his relationship with River. He has been her best friend since childhood. He is mature, protective, a gentleman, strong and loving. He treats River with the respect that she deserves and is always there for her when she needs him. He is the one thing in Rivers life that is true and good. He is definitely one of those characters that makes you wish there were more guys like him out in the world. A true southern gentleman! Who no matter what you have gone through, will always be by your side and love you unconditionally. Justice and Rivers relationship was pure, loving and honest. They weren't perfect, but close to it and I loved every minute of their relationship. They will forever be one of my favorite book couples! I was so happy with the ending, but I want more. Need more Justice in my life.
If your looking for a story that will leave you on the edge of your seat and has the most intriguing and entertaining characters, go pick this book up. You will not be disappointed. I will definitely be reading more by Colette Ballard. She is wonderful story teller who pulls you in from the first page.
This book had my hooked from beginning to end. I loved how it had everything in it......Suspense, Comedy and Romance. What more could you ask for. This book was totally different from most YA novels I have read, but in a very good way. I literally couldn't put the book down.The story itself kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't wait turn the page to see what would happen next. I felt so many emotions reading this book. I love when authors can make me feel what the characters are going through. I cried, got angry, laughed and swooned.
Every single character in this book kept the story entertaining. The main character River is one of my favorite characters. She is smart, funny, loving and has a huge heart. She goes through so much, but still puts her family and best friends needs above her own and I loved that. What really got me was her growth throughout the story. She definitely learns from her mistakes and learns life lessons that will forever change her. There are so many great characters in this book and I loved them all, except one. That would be Logan. He is the reason why Rivers life takes a huge nose dive for the worst. His character was very complex and makes you wonder why on earth River would go for someone like that. But the story goes on and we get more loveable characters such as her two best friends Kat and Billi Jo. They were definitely true friends, who stuck by her through the bad and the good. They were loyal to her to the very end and showed me what true friendship really is. Billi Jo's character had me laughing so much throughout the book, she is definitely one of my favorites. Now onto another favorite of mine, the swoon worthy Justice. Hmm, where to start. I absolutely adored his relationship with River. He has been her best friend since childhood. He is mature, protective, a gentleman, strong and loving. He treats River with the respect that she deserves and is always there for her when she needs him. He is the one thing in Rivers life that is true and good. He is definitely one of those characters that makes you wish there were more guys like him out in the world. A true southern gentleman! Who no matter what you have gone through, will always be by your side and love you unconditionally. Justice and Rivers relationship was pure, loving and honest. They weren't perfect, but close to it and I loved every minute of their relationship. They will forever be one of my favorite book couples! I was so happy with the ending, but I want more. Need more Justice in my life.
If your looking for a story that will leave you on the edge of your seat and has the most intriguing and entertaining characters, go pick this book up. You will not be disappointed. I will definitely be reading more by Colette Ballard. She is wonderful story teller who pulls you in from the first page.
December 12, 2015
This review was posted on my blog:
http://thereadingkitten.blogspot.nl/2...
Running on Empty could've been amazing. The plot sounded great and the first couple of chapters were pretty good, but after that I started having some problems with it.
What makes me love a story are good characters, and in this book there weren't really any characters that I absolutely loved. I didn't love our main character, River. She makes a lot of stupid decisions and doesn't listen to anyone who's trying to give her good advice... But then when I did agree with River for once, her best friends started acting like she did everything wrong. Needless to say I didn't particularly like her friends, Kat and Billy Jo either. They were okay at times, but sometimes they were just really mean to River. One character that I did really like was Charlie, the old guy that they meet while they're in Vegas.
The plot of the book moved really slowly and it just dragged, especially in the beginning. The story is about River accidentally killing her boyfriend when he attempts to rape her. River and her friends are on the run from law for the majority of the book, but the whole murdering thing doesn't happen until you're about 20% into the book already. I didn't enjoy the first 50% of the book that much. It was okay, but nothing mind blowingly awesome happened. There's another sub-plot about River's father, who she's never met. I found that 'mystery' to be a bit more interesting and I liked that we got to know a little more about her mother as well.
The romance was okay. In the beginning I absolutely loved Justice as a love interest. I really wanted him and River to get together at first, but closer to the end I didn't really care so much anymore... I was really annoyed with River and all her bad decisions and I didn't like the fact that Justice had a girlfriend (that he didn't even like anyway...) I mean, if he was so in love with River, why would he even want to be with someone else? I could see that he cared about her as a friend, but there wasn't a whole lot of sexual tension. I didn't really believe their romance...
Overall, I don't think this was a bad story, it was just way too slow for me and I couldn't really connect with the characters. It wasn't exciting enough for me and I didn't feel compelled to pick it back up. If this hadn't been a netgalley book, I probably wouldn't have gotten through the slow beginning.
http://thereadingkitten.blogspot.nl/2...
Running on Empty could've been amazing. The plot sounded great and the first couple of chapters were pretty good, but after that I started having some problems with it.
What makes me love a story are good characters, and in this book there weren't really any characters that I absolutely loved. I didn't love our main character, River. She makes a lot of stupid decisions and doesn't listen to anyone who's trying to give her good advice... But then when I did agree with River for once, her best friends started acting like she did everything wrong. Needless to say I didn't particularly like her friends, Kat and Billy Jo either. They were okay at times, but sometimes they were just really mean to River. One character that I did really like was Charlie, the old guy that they meet while they're in Vegas.
The plot of the book moved really slowly and it just dragged, especially in the beginning. The story is about River accidentally killing her boyfriend when he attempts to rape her. River and her friends are on the run from law for the majority of the book, but the whole murdering thing doesn't happen until you're about 20% into the book already. I didn't enjoy the first 50% of the book that much. It was okay, but nothing mind blowingly awesome happened. There's another sub-plot about River's father, who she's never met. I found that 'mystery' to be a bit more interesting and I liked that we got to know a little more about her mother as well.
The romance was okay. In the beginning I absolutely loved Justice as a love interest. I really wanted him and River to get together at first, but closer to the end I didn't really care so much anymore... I was really annoyed with River and all her bad decisions and I didn't like the fact that Justice had a girlfriend (that he didn't even like anyway...) I mean, if he was so in love with River, why would he even want to be with someone else? I could see that he cared about her as a friend, but there wasn't a whole lot of sexual tension. I didn't really believe their romance...
Overall, I don't think this was a bad story, it was just way too slow for me and I couldn't really connect with the characters. It wasn't exciting enough for me and I didn't feel compelled to pick it back up. If this hadn't been a netgalley book, I probably wouldn't have gotten through the slow beginning.
September 2, 2016
3.5 Stars!
"I was wanted for murder. Ironic how my desire to be wanted by Logan got me into this mess in the first place."
So I requested this book because I just need something different than the New Adult genre once in awhile. This totally hit the spot, kind of like chocolate on that day of the month! It is about a girl, River, who committed murder in self defense and her quest to prove herself. While there is the deal with the attempted rape issue, I would definitely categorize this as Young Adult/Mystery although there was some romance which made my heart swoon. I just love first love. Yes, I am a complete sucker for it.
"Justice made me dance-barefoot-in-the-grass happy, the lightning-storm angry-sometimes all within the same minute."
We should back up a bit before jumping into the romance part however. So much happens before we even get to this point. River grew up in a trailer park so of course was flattered when well to do, football captain, popular boy Logan showed interest in her. While she did have red flags, I think like all youngsters (myself included), we ignore them. Unfortunately he draws her away from all her best friends, Billi Jo, Kat, and Justice who are the ones who are actually her true friends. When the poo hits the fan, they are the ones who give up their lives, break the law, and fight for her freedom. We get to journey with them through this whole book while River learns to come to terms with what she has done and fight for her freedom.
"Even back then, I knew you were the one. But I wanted forever, not one of those high school flings where we'd break up and then hate each other for some stupid reason."
Yep, I adore Justice and first loves! So, onto my feelings about the book. As stated above, it is definitely YA and being older, at times, I wanted to jump in the book and smack these kids. I would then realize I was JUST like them years ago and would then settle down and continue reading. The writing was good as was the editing. I did feel at times that this book was LONG. It is under 400 pages so while not short, not exactly long either. It felt longer to me, if that makes sense? I would definitely read more books by Colette Ballard whether they were YA or a different genre if they crossed my path. I guess overall, for me, it was good read. Not exactly light and fluffy but definitely something different for me.
Reviewed by Mystery for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for honest review*
"I was wanted for murder. Ironic how my desire to be wanted by Logan got me into this mess in the first place."
So I requested this book because I just need something different than the New Adult genre once in awhile. This totally hit the spot, kind of like chocolate on that day of the month! It is about a girl, River, who committed murder in self defense and her quest to prove herself. While there is the deal with the attempted rape issue, I would definitely categorize this as Young Adult/Mystery although there was some romance which made my heart swoon. I just love first love. Yes, I am a complete sucker for it.
"Justice made me dance-barefoot-in-the-grass happy, the lightning-storm angry-sometimes all within the same minute."
We should back up a bit before jumping into the romance part however. So much happens before we even get to this point. River grew up in a trailer park so of course was flattered when well to do, football captain, popular boy Logan showed interest in her. While she did have red flags, I think like all youngsters (myself included), we ignore them. Unfortunately he draws her away from all her best friends, Billi Jo, Kat, and Justice who are the ones who are actually her true friends. When the poo hits the fan, they are the ones who give up their lives, break the law, and fight for her freedom. We get to journey with them through this whole book while River learns to come to terms with what she has done and fight for her freedom.
"Even back then, I knew you were the one. But I wanted forever, not one of those high school flings where we'd break up and then hate each other for some stupid reason."
Yep, I adore Justice and first loves! So, onto my feelings about the book. As stated above, it is definitely YA and being older, at times, I wanted to jump in the book and smack these kids. I would then realize I was JUST like them years ago and would then settle down and continue reading. The writing was good as was the editing. I did feel at times that this book was LONG. It is under 400 pages so while not short, not exactly long either. It felt longer to me, if that makes sense? I would definitely read more books by Colette Ballard whether they were YA or a different genre if they crossed my path. I guess overall, for me, it was good read. Not exactly light and fluffy but definitely something different for me.
Reviewed by Mystery for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for honest review*
February 8, 2014
This was...not what I expected.
As per usual, I read the blurb ages ago and had totally forgotten what this was about. But it was quite different from other contemporaries in the fact that it was set in a high school.
River had the two greatest friends in the history of contemporaries. Three, if you include Justice. They were dedicated and determined to help River after the accident and went to extreme lengths to do so. Under their tough exterior, they were better inside than the kids that had been brought up with riches. Typically in most contemporaries, the main character has some sort of fight or falling out with her best friend in the book, so I'm glad that River had such great friends to help her on her "journey".
When the feels came in this book, they hit hard. Only just missed the bullseye. A bullseye is very difficult to get, by the way. I think that both the characters and the author handled the tougher situations very well. Even though I would never do even half those things, when River and her friends executed those things, they seemed liked it was reasonable to take that option.
I also love the cover. It looks very polished and professional - it was definitely the thing that attracted me to this book.
What I didn't like was that I found some parts a little boring. The good bits and the unexpected twists were exciting but the inbetween seemed to just drag on a bit too much. In all honesty, I think that I was well and truly ready for the book to be over by 75%. I can't give away the parts that dragged on for me without spoilers but I thought there was a lull period inbetween the more exciting scenes.
The other thing I didn't like was that Justice was too perfect. He was ALWAYS there for her and what ever he said seemed to take whatever relationship he had going with River at the time, back even further. It just started to bother me, especially since I thought they got past all of that.
I'm looking forward to reading Justice's point of view. I think I'm going to like it just as much or even more than River's point of view. I did like his character. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a different sort of contemporary - in other words, one that isn't set in a high school.
3/5 comets - The Earth shook. If they thought the Leaning Tower of Pisa was leaning before...
As per usual, I read the blurb ages ago and had totally forgotten what this was about. But it was quite different from other contemporaries in the fact that it was set in a high school.
River had the two greatest friends in the history of contemporaries. Three, if you include Justice. They were dedicated and determined to help River after the accident and went to extreme lengths to do so. Under their tough exterior, they were better inside than the kids that had been brought up with riches. Typically in most contemporaries, the main character has some sort of fight or falling out with her best friend in the book, so I'm glad that River had such great friends to help her on her "journey".
When the feels came in this book, they hit hard. Only just missed the bullseye. A bullseye is very difficult to get, by the way. I think that both the characters and the author handled the tougher situations very well. Even though I would never do even half those things, when River and her friends executed those things, they seemed liked it was reasonable to take that option.
I also love the cover. It looks very polished and professional - it was definitely the thing that attracted me to this book.
What I didn't like was that I found some parts a little boring. The good bits and the unexpected twists were exciting but the inbetween seemed to just drag on a bit too much. In all honesty, I think that I was well and truly ready for the book to be over by 75%. I can't give away the parts that dragged on for me without spoilers but I thought there was a lull period inbetween the more exciting scenes.
The other thing I didn't like was that Justice was too perfect. He was ALWAYS there for her and what ever he said seemed to take whatever relationship he had going with River at the time, back even further. It just started to bother me, especially since I thought they got past all of that.
I'm looking forward to reading Justice's point of view. I think I'm going to like it just as much or even more than River's point of view. I did like his character. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a different sort of contemporary - in other words, one that isn't set in a high school.
3/5 comets - The Earth shook. If they thought the Leaning Tower of Pisa was leaning before...
July 20, 2014
Thank you to Netgalley and Tulip Teen for giving me a copy to review
More reviews on : http://nobentspines.blogspot.com/
3.75
RUNNING ON EMPTY is an enticing mix of old emotions, dramatic suspense and a barbaric asshole who haunts people’s lives long after he’s dead and gone. In this stunning debut, Ballard brings the reader into the fast- paced world of a half- dead, almost raped girl on the run. This book was fast paced and fabulous. We get to see (after she runs) how she goes from the walking dead to a girl who will be free and will tell the true story. This is when I start to love the story of course. Why? Because this is when we have our love interest back who is basically the definition of my dream guy. Definition. Best thing? He’s in Texas like me! Well...fictionally, but come on. Give me a break.
Let’s talk about the love, shall we? It sweet and not simple at all with a touch of friends who are head over heels for each other but neither one knows. Our main man, Justice, has horses, an accent, calls her Darlin’ and is all shades of sweet with more than a touch of protectiveness for good measure. *sighs, swoons and fangirling*
Now besides the utterly amazing guy this is a book more about self-discovery and standing up for what you deserve and, even more than that, healing. It’s about preserving humanity and finding love in the darkest places. RUNNING ON EMPTY is about pulling yourself out from the dead’s grip and the power of friendship.
This isn’t a book I normally read but I found myself enjoying immensely, even in I did skip around sometimes to get to the romance and to the action. In the wise words of Hannah Montana, “nobody’s perfect.”
In the end, this book had it all, the totally swoon-worthy cowboy, heart-pounding action, a kick-butt main girl and a jealous boyfriend who doesn’t know the difference between rape and consensual sex. Thanks God River disposed of him…even though it wasn’t intentional.
Overall, this was a wonderful mix of mystery, romance with a girl on the run seeking Justice...in more way than one! This was full of healing and although it wasn't perfect, I loved it to pieces!
~Jackie
More reviews on : http://nobentspines.blogspot.com/
3.75
RUNNING ON EMPTY is an enticing mix of old emotions, dramatic suspense and a barbaric asshole who haunts people’s lives long after he’s dead and gone. In this stunning debut, Ballard brings the reader into the fast- paced world of a half- dead, almost raped girl on the run. This book was fast paced and fabulous. We get to see (after she runs) how she goes from the walking dead to a girl who will be free and will tell the true story. This is when I start to love the story of course. Why? Because this is when we have our love interest back who is basically the definition of my dream guy. Definition. Best thing? He’s in Texas like me! Well...fictionally, but come on. Give me a break.
Let’s talk about the love, shall we? It sweet and not simple at all with a touch of friends who are head over heels for each other but neither one knows. Our main man, Justice, has horses, an accent, calls her Darlin’ and is all shades of sweet with more than a touch of protectiveness for good measure. *sighs, swoons and fangirling*
Now besides the utterly amazing guy this is a book more about self-discovery and standing up for what you deserve and, even more than that, healing. It’s about preserving humanity and finding love in the darkest places. RUNNING ON EMPTY is about pulling yourself out from the dead’s grip and the power of friendship.
This isn’t a book I normally read but I found myself enjoying immensely, even in I did skip around sometimes to get to the romance and to the action. In the wise words of Hannah Montana, “nobody’s perfect.”
In the end, this book had it all, the totally swoon-worthy cowboy, heart-pounding action, a kick-butt main girl and a jealous boyfriend who doesn’t know the difference between rape and consensual sex. Thanks God River disposed of him…even though it wasn’t intentional.
Overall, this was a wonderful mix of mystery, romance with a girl on the run seeking Justice...in more way than one! This was full of healing and although it wasn't perfect, I loved it to pieces!
~Jackie
May 6, 2014
More reviews at Mrs. ReaderPants.
REVIEW: This will no doubt be compared with Thelma & Louise, and that is a pretty decent comparison. As in T & L, our main character River Daniels shoots and kills someone to prevent an imminent rape. Her best friends Billie Jo and Kat find River walking along the road, dazed and covered in blood. Knowing River will not get a fair trial in their area, the two friends whisk River away to Las Vegas, where they struggle to find jobs and stay off the police radar.
I really enjoyed this story, which despite its focus on the three female protagonists, still contains a sweet romance between River and her long-time best friend Justice, whom River was trying to protect the night of the shooting. Though there are some overly-convenient coincidences, the story mostly kept me on my toes and turning pages late into the night.
****Check back May 12! Author Coletter Ballard is guest-posting, and I will be hosting a giveaway of Running on Empty!****
THE BOTTOM LINE: Action-packed with some mystery and romance, Running on Empty is a fun, engrossing read that compares with one of my favorite movies of all time.
STATUS IN MY LIBRARY: We don't have it--too mature for a MS library (see content notes below).
READALIKES: Speak (Anderson), Nineteen Minutes (Picoult)
RATING BREAKDOWN:
Overall: 4/5
Creativity: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Engrossing: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Appeal to teens: 5/5
Appropriate length to tell the story: 5/5
CONTENT:
Language: medium-high--includes multiple bit**, sh**, and fu**
Sexuality: medium--rape is central to the story; talking about sex/loss of virginity; girls purposely use their sexuality to distract male characters
Violence: high--attempted rape, murder
Drugs/Alcohol: high--teen drinking, marijuana use, cigarette-smoking
June 16, 2014
I was immediately intrigued when I discovered Running on Empty on Netgalley, the story sounded unique and a bit thriller-esque so I was pumped when I got approved to read it!
River was a fantastic main character. Probably my favorite thing about her, and the fact that I related to her the most with, was that she adored animals. Horses and horseback riding play a bit part in the story, as River breaks horses, and I was immediately drawn to her as a character for that trait. Aside from her love from animals, River was emotional, realistic and had a fierce loyalty for her friends and loved ones. She was great, and I wish I had half the luck with loving characters as I did her. There were times when I wanted to scream at her and was upset by her sometimes ridiculous decision-making but those decisions defined her as a person and essentially made her a little less than perfect – a very endearing quality. Her best friends were also wonderful. Both of them had again, a fierce loyalty to one another, with an all for one and one for all type motto. They stuck by each other through thick and thin, and the worst, worst situations but it was refreshing to see such a strong friendship portrayed through to the end of the book.
The story was very good. Predictable and definitely not “thriller-esque” as I originally thought, but interesting and kept me moving forward. The problem I had with the book, and the reason why I gave it three stars, was the pacing. I felt like it went on forever. Honestly .. I thought I would never finish it. I think the predictability played a part in the pacing, as I knew what was coming long before it happened, so I was almost waiting for the events to unfold.
I LOVED the ending though. It was perfect but not sugar-coated perfect. It took a long time to get there but I really enjoyed how the story wrapped up. This was a solid read, with fantastic characters, a bit of sweet romance and a unique plot that I hadn’t read before. This definitely will not be my last book by Colette Ballard!
River was a fantastic main character. Probably my favorite thing about her, and the fact that I related to her the most with, was that she adored animals. Horses and horseback riding play a bit part in the story, as River breaks horses, and I was immediately drawn to her as a character for that trait. Aside from her love from animals, River was emotional, realistic and had a fierce loyalty for her friends and loved ones. She was great, and I wish I had half the luck with loving characters as I did her. There were times when I wanted to scream at her and was upset by her sometimes ridiculous decision-making but those decisions defined her as a person and essentially made her a little less than perfect – a very endearing quality. Her best friends were also wonderful. Both of them had again, a fierce loyalty to one another, with an all for one and one for all type motto. They stuck by each other through thick and thin, and the worst, worst situations but it was refreshing to see such a strong friendship portrayed through to the end of the book.
The story was very good. Predictable and definitely not “thriller-esque” as I originally thought, but interesting and kept me moving forward. The problem I had with the book, and the reason why I gave it three stars, was the pacing. I felt like it went on forever. Honestly .. I thought I would never finish it. I think the predictability played a part in the pacing, as I knew what was coming long before it happened, so I was almost waiting for the events to unfold.
I LOVED the ending though. It was perfect but not sugar-coated perfect. It took a long time to get there but I really enjoyed how the story wrapped up. This was a solid read, with fantastic characters, a bit of sweet romance and a unique plot that I hadn’t read before. This definitely will not be my last book by Colette Ballard!
January 18, 2014
running on Empty by Collete Ballard was an interesting book, namely an interesting subject... relationship abuse. Having been in a volatile relationship I often can get wound up by books which feature emotional abuse/bullying and find them unrealistic. However.although this isn't the main storyline and a subline leading to it, I felt it was extremely well handled and instantly took a liking to this book.
River is a good girl. Good grades, works hard and has a crappy family life. Her love is horses and her boyfriend is an egotistical rich arsehole - was that blatant enough? You can tell I didn't like him, I have my reasons. Now the romance part of this book I am happy to say doesn't feature said egotistical rich arsehole - if it did I would have stopped reading.
This book is about friendship, love, pain, hurt, families, an egotistical arsehole (Sorry but its true) and an event that changes so many peoples lives. I found I was drawn into Running on Empty and found it hard to put down.
Certain points were drawn out I found and a little boring. Then other aspects were rushed. But somehow, it just all came together nicely. What I really liked about the romance was that it made sense. If you have been in a situation which has effected you like River had, I find it hard to believe you would then go and forget everything that had happened (Again, trying to not give spoilers here!!) - River's traumatic event effected her and the other characters, it effected her actions - this gave it a feeling of real life. Although the whole story could not be considered on that would happen, I am sure aspects of it have without a doubt!
I gave Running on Empty 4 stars, it was a fantastic book and one I am glad to have been accepted to review through NetGalley. I would recommend it to others but due to some of its content, would recommend it was for older teens and those who enjoy New Adult books.
River is a good girl. Good grades, works hard and has a crappy family life. Her love is horses and her boyfriend is an egotistical rich arsehole - was that blatant enough? You can tell I didn't like him, I have my reasons. Now the romance part of this book I am happy to say doesn't feature said egotistical rich arsehole - if it did I would have stopped reading.
This book is about friendship, love, pain, hurt, families, an egotistical arsehole (Sorry but its true) and an event that changes so many peoples lives. I found I was drawn into Running on Empty and found it hard to put down.
Certain points were drawn out I found and a little boring. Then other aspects were rushed. But somehow, it just all came together nicely. What I really liked about the romance was that it made sense. If you have been in a situation which has effected you like River had, I find it hard to believe you would then go and forget everything that had happened (Again, trying to not give spoilers here!!) - River's traumatic event effected her and the other characters, it effected her actions - this gave it a feeling of real life. Although the whole story could not be considered on that would happen, I am sure aspects of it have without a doubt!
I gave Running on Empty 4 stars, it was a fantastic book and one I am glad to have been accepted to review through NetGalley. I would recommend it to others but due to some of its content, would recommend it was for older teens and those who enjoy New Adult books.
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