Promiscuous

Issues #1

by Isobel Irons

Natasha “Tash” Bohner just turned eighteen. Theoretically, that should mean escaping from trailer park purgatory—and her less than stellar relationship with her widowed mother—and running away to Los Angeles with her anorexic best friend, Margot. But as we all know, life is known for taking some very shitty, unexpected turns. Already the scourge of the Guthrie High gossip mill, Tash’s undesirable reputation explodes into infamy when she assaults the captain of the wrestling team. (Despite the fact that he deserved it,) the principal tells her that she’s on her last strike.

Again, see: above. Re: shit happens. When Margot’s will to live is finally severed by the leader of the Guthrie Bitch Squad, Tash vows to get revenge on the most popular girl in school—no matter what it takes. Because of a promise she made to her favorite teacher (to not get expelled), Tash is forced to get creative. She realizes she’s going to have to beat the popularity-obsessed Becca Foster at her own game, by running against her for prom queen. And winning.

In order to succeed, Tash will have to do the unthinkable: she’ll have to join student government, pretend to be well-adjusted, and actually try in school. Also, she’ll have to quit swearing so goddamn much.

It’s like a fucking Cinderella story up in here. Only, it’s high school. So there aren’t any happy endings. (Just beginnings.)

Genres: Young Adult, New Adult, Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Abuse, Realistic Fiction

243 pages, ebook

First published January 2, 2014

About the author

Isobel Irons is a pen name.

Reviews

[Charlotte Bugler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this book in an exchange for an honest review
4.5 stars!

When i first started reading this book, I honestly didn't know what I had gotten myself into.. It started off with Tash (the main character) using the 'F' word so much in the first few pages, I was getting the impression that the author was trying to prove the point early on that she doesn't care and is so flippant about other peoples opinions. Personally.... I think it was a bit OTT, and I would've stopped reading if it wasn't for the deal with the author.
And I'm sooo glad I carried on reading!
This book was just.. Wow!

Mind = BLOWN!



I absolutely loved Tash! She is your every day, well, not so everyday, eighteen year old. She goes to high school, hangs out with her best friend, has a crush on the popular guy, but that's where the similarities end I would say with the majority of young girls. With a bad, and (I would say traumatic but she's such a bad ass that I wouldn't necessarily say she's been traumatised) rough past, and I think it's safe to say the same with her present, we come to meet her in the process of getting ready for graduation from a high school where she hangs near the bottom of the food chain. But she's got such a give a shit blasé attitude and quite a tough exterior that no one really takes notice or go out of their way to torment her.
Which introduces us to her best friend Margot. I love her. She's such a sweet and caring girl from the same trailer trash background but with the dreams of being an actress and has been accepted to university where she will be doing acting classes, so you think she's got high hopes of achieving her dreams. Which makes the fact she gets bullied by the biggest bitch in school horrible. It makes you question, why does she deserve that? But then again, why does anyone deserve that type of treatment? This book really makes you think..

These two characters are complete polar opposites yet their the perfect match! They play on each others personalities so well. The definition of ying and yang. One who is a tough nut to crack and the other as soft as a marshmallow.
Tash feels the need to protect Margot as she's such a weak character and the only person she's ever truly loved in her life.. When I mean weak, it's just that she's easily hurt by other peoples actions or opinions.

This book takes you on an incredible story of self realization and acceptance that really makes you open your eyes to what it's like on the receiving, crap end of the stick, or to help people in similar circumstances understand that it's not just them that have had to face difficult circumstances in your life. This book tackles everything that anyone in any stage of their life might have/had to deal with.

This book has a way of making you feel angry because of all the crap they've had to deal with, just because of the background of the character. The things that have happened to her were unforgivable and while the character tells the read to "not feel bad for her" you cant help but do so. This book takes on so many situations that have happened to other girls that it really gives you an inside scoop of what they have to deal with and cope. It makes you question so many things. Why was no one there to stop it? Why did no one else notice? Why did everyone believe the rumours? Why, why, why, why, why, why?!

Her story is so real, the characters are so spot on to what teenagers are like, whether from a shabby background or wealth, everyone has insecurities and no one she be made the victim.
All in all. I. Love. It. I feel like Tash's story is one that someone has to take very seriously, and let open their eyes to the world around them.
This story was very beautiful, and i enjoyed every word. A beautifully written and heart wrenching story that anyone with half a mind should read!
Superb!

Thank you so much for writing an incredible story that opens peoples eyes to the real world and away from the world of vampires and fairies! Recommended read!

[Stephanie (the nerdy princess) · Rating 5 out of 5]

GOOD GOD I LOVED THIS FUCKING BOOK!

I got a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review

OMG OMG….Thank god for read for review and this fabulous book! I loved every page of this book, every minute it took me to read this book and I just want to scream “ I LOVE YOU ISOBEL IRONS!”

I cant wait to get my hands on book number 2! I must read what happens next and what not…

This book is soooo “Easy A meets Cinderella meets mean girls” I love how honest this book is and how the characters are true. Even though you might choice not to believe it, but the topics and the over all book itself is what high school really is. Seriously! Girls are mean, boys are pigs….. Yes girls are trying to kill themselves or starve themselves because of the bullying by other kids…..

Natashia, aka Tasha is a not so popular girl in school, with a not so good reputation that show how got because she leaves in a bad neighborhood and not to mention its in a trailer park to. Everyone thinks Tasha is a slutty skanky girl. Her best friend Margot is an anorexic girl who just got herself a scholarship to UCLA for acting and her and Tasha’s ticket out of there town, for good.

When the high school’s main Bully catches Margot in the bathroom throwing up after lunch, she makes it a point to make her life miserable, so miserable that Margot trys to kill herself. Now Tasha is on a mission to get give and settle the score.

Little did she know that there are actual decent people out there that care for her and want to see her graduate school and make something of herself. Who would of thought that a dorky computer teacher, the hottest guy and not the mention the class president, and a little bit of TLC from Natasha would big this story and a great page turning twist!

A must read.

P.S. if your offended by swearing, the use of the F bomb, talking about sex, rape and other not so good topics… this book is not for you….but really SUCK IT UP BUTTERCUP AND READ THIS FUCKING AWESOME BOOK…
your welcome … :)

for more on this review and more about the author visit my blog at http://thenerdyprincessbookreviews.bl...

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

ETA on second reading: This book still holds up on the second reading. Tash is such a great character and I love her voice. I want her for my friend and I want to hang out with her and kick those popular bitches all over the school yard! You go girl!!!

Original review: I read this book because it satisfied a reading challenge looking for a "mostly green cover." I always love it when you read a book for the most innocuous reason and then really love it. Tash has a great snarky attitude that made me laugh and giggle throughout reading this. She has been put in a situation in her early childhood that is deplorable but she somehow came out the other side intact and stronger for it. She talks about the bitches in high school who build themselves up by tearing the weakest people down. She has a run in with a bully and rapist and ends up turning the tables on him too. And she meets a teacher and a young boy who teach her that even though she doesn't think so, she does deserve something BETTER .

[Tonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book!

Tash is in her senior year of high school, counting down the days until she can escape her trailer park and the horror that is school, with her best friend Margot. Tash has an undeserved reputation of being a slut, or promiscuous, even though she is nothing of the sort. Throughout the novel we learn about the labels the teens have all been assigned and how much they are undeserved (both good and bad) and how much damage they can cause.

The beginning of the story starts out with a bang, even though my hubby is in the military and every other word may be a curse, I was a bit shocked with how many this book started out with. A few pages in and I didn't even notice them anymore, the book is so engrossing. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a great story with gritty characters, a more mature young adult novel that is easy to relate to. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.

I received this novel for free in exchange for my honest review. This in no way colored my enjoyment or review of the novel.

[♔ Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an AMAZING story! 5+ stars! Tash is a heroine I love. This book has also been placed on my favorites shelf! Thank you Isobel Irons for writing such a refreshing story about struggles that many young women face today. Although, young women today may not go through all of these terrible situations at once, they may sometime in their lives, and this story gives you an insiders view.


The book is written in a manner in which the heroine is speaking to you throughout the story. I absolutely loved that! The best part about Tash? She doesn't give a #%^*! The male lead in this story...WONDERFUL! Tash's best friend Margot was beautifully written. This is a book I am so happy to have read and I cannot describe how amazing this story really is. I feel that you need to read it to understand...so please do!


Thank you Isobel Irons for writing such a fantastic book! I am looking forward to reading the next story in this series!

[Kitlina · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I have received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.*

I have so ambivalent brain responses right now that I don't know if I should listen to my right or left hemisphere.
This book wants you to believe its title, that it's about promiscuity. But you really find out that it's not in the slightest about that. That's just a facade, a mask behind the main character, Tash, can hide her deeply wounded self. Being truly unlucky in almost every aspect of her life, you could say that she's been handed a very shitty hand. I should try to make myself clearer though. Tash is the epitome of screwed over by faith. Because her hardships in life have begun at such a tender age when you cannot conceptualize what is happening to you, in every aspect being social/sexual/emotional, she got a very bad opinion on herself. She began seeing herself as dirty, slutty, skanky and a plethora of other expletives.

This book got to me because being a mother myself, albeit of a daughter that has less than 2 years of age, I couldn't fathom the nearsightedness of Tash's mother. I don't get how there can be such persons that call themselves parents, and especially mothers, and not give a fuck on what happens to their child. Or more to the point, they give more shit about what others may think, than about the well being of their child.

I have been blessed with the most amazing mother there is. A woman that would literally put down her life for me and my sibling. I find everything less to be a poor excuse of a human being. I know that there are these monsters out there that call themselves mothers but they are just in disguise. They don't know the first thing about maternal feelings. I think maybe if you don't feel 110% welcomed to the idea of giving birth that you shouldn't do it. No child deserves a parent like that. No innocent should be left in the care of somebody that doesn't give a fuck.

I digressed a lot and I'm sorry, but that just goes to the whole point of this story. Tash has felt betrayed her whole life by the adults that surrounded her. And she has had every right, from 5 years old she has been abused like no child ever should. Just thinking of child abuse makes me want to go Rambo on all of those perverts asses. I have zero tolerance for any kind of abuse, I feel like I can transform into a harpy and gut them all.

It amazes me that she actually didn't turn out that bad, aside from some foul language and a unearned bad reputation she is quite OK. And I actually liked her, with all her bad parts, because she survived through it all and came out on top. She is a better person than many and she should be proud of herself.

You know what, about Grant, I really loved him. He has just enough imperfections to be perfect.
I would love a novella about them after this book. Could there be more for them in the future? Could Tash finally confide in somebody? Could she trust him so much with herself?
I would really like to know.

The rest of the characters have done their part and they contributed to the story in the exact amount necessary. Margot was the plot device necessary for Tash's ultimate revelations. Trent was your not so average sex offender that needed his dick to be amputated, along with his balls. Becca is the necessary evil, you just have to hate her kind. I loved Nana and Dottie, I think they have made life somewhat easier for Tash with their hilarity.

At last I gave it 5 stars because I felt it deserved them. But I still have so many leftover needs in what this book is concerned that Ms. Irons should really consider writing a sequel. I don't get the feeling the story is completely over.

So again thank you for this great read and good luck with writing.

[Rhea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a direct letter to Miss Isobel Irons,

When I was about 20 pages into Promiscuous, I was debating whether to read the rest of the book. Because I knew what you were getting at. Making me see what I've seen everyday-just in a different light. I've seen girls my age starve themselves, eat tissue paper for survival, barf in the period after lunch. I've seen girls my age being treated like trash-they've been talked about behind their backs, they've been humiliated publicly, they've been called the worse names possible. I've seen my own share of Natashas' and Margots'.

And yet, what have I done to reach out to them?

NOTHING.

Few books have the ability to drop the "f" bomb as many times as your book did and actually appeal to me. I honestly don't know what to do - thank you for pointing out what I've been doing wrong in high school? Or should I curse you for the very same reason.

Your book was not an easy read. You've dealt with issues like rape, child abuse, suicide, bullying. They made me uncomfortable, they made me squirm. But most importantly, they made me feel. And was that what you were aiming for, Miss Irons? Bulls-eye!

With this book, Miss Irons, you've changed my opinion about a lot of things irrevocably. You've taken my comfortable and "ignorance is bliss" policy led life and thrown it right into the ocean. Are you happy now?

Would it make me a sicko if I said that I didn't want this book to end? It probably would, huh? It's true though. Although everything that happened with Tash broke my heart every time, I still had this almost masochistic need to see what else life throws at her. To have my heart broken. And then have my faith restored when Tash overcame it.

I wish I could say that your book made me laugh. Not once, not one time. Every time Tash made a jab at herself and attempted to laugh it off, it just cut me deeper. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.

Even though I am absolutely furious at you, Miss Irons, for making me feel guilty for almost my entire high school life in 243 pages, I wanna thank you for the same damn reason.

Thank you.

Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal.

[Trisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I used to think that people deserved what they got, that they had it coming, but now I'm not so sure. Now, I think we all just walk around with different kinds of pain, and we try to spread it all around so we don't feel so alone."

I started this book with the warning and I wasn't so sure what I was getting myself into. But, I felt like I'd made a commitment to the book, so I decided to roll with it.

At first, I was put off by the talking to the reader. I typically like to just roll with the story and not be told. And I didn't like the assumptions Tash was making about me, the reader. But then it flipped and it moved to story mode and I easily flew into it.

Tasha's world is a hard one, and it was tough to see it sometimes. But she rolls with it like a champ and is just surviving the best way she can. I'm so glad the author really embraced Tash. I wouldn't have wanted her any other way. I never felt "sorry" for her or felt the need to shame her or wrong her for not telling. I understood her and I loved her for it. It's a tough line to walk and Isobel Irons walked it beautifully.

And just like the closing says, of course, I was one of these girls. Perpetually had a sign on her that, somehow, drew the sick sadistic crazies. But I made it through too. I hope Tash inspires others to know they can make it through too. That maybe there is a light and maybe you can pull through.

and honestly, more Grant. I want to read book 2 :)

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I was given this book in exchange for an honest review*

This is the story of 18 year old Natasha “Tash” Bohner. And I know, her last name was made for taking the piss out of but honestly, thats the least of her fricking problems. This is a story of shitty life situations, labels of society, and real life problems that dont get swept under the rug or even given a directed spotlight (you know, the kind where the author shows you just enough about said life problem to make you all happy and crap when they 'resolve' it in their story). No. None of that BS here. Being dealt possibly the worst hand life could have given her, this is about Tasha's journey of self discovery and how real people deal with things in every day real life. Realistic fiction in it's rawest yet finest form. Have I mentioned how real it is? (okay okay I'll stop). So, that being said, if stories with traumatic experiences such as bullying, sexual abuse, suicide and eating disorders as well as no no particularly happy endings aren't your thing, then this definitely isn't for you. Go pick up the original Cinderella or something.


I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Isobel Irons' writing style is pretty damn captivating. The whole time I felt like I was actually listening to Tash as she told me her story, and not like I was reading a novel. The writting feels very personal, which makes sense as Isobel mentions that this is her story for the most part too. That raw edge made this book all the more powerful and unforgiving. The moment you open this book and start the first page you're thrown into the deep end. There is no warm up, no shallow easy begining to dip your toes in to grow accustomed to it's feel. Nope. Hold your breath and swim biatch or prepare to drown. Straight away it feels like Natasha is attacking, almost willing you to put the book down and walk away. For me that was practically a sign that she had something to hide, and made me push on all the more harder. Her dry wit and cynicism were actually right up my alley and made her all the more relatable to me as I could just feel how she was using them as well as her 'slut' label as a front, to throw people off what she was really like inside. The story itself was the perfect length. It didnt take forever to build up or get to the point, and it didnt drag on forver after.

In short, this is a powerful, moving book of realistic fiction that cuts the crap and exposes just how bad high school can be, but how the simple things like friends and self believe can make all the difference, and that change starts with your own pereception of yourself. I would most definitely reccomend this book if you're looking for something moving and honest to read and aren't so easily offended. And even if you are, you should still read this book because I'm sure Tash would be more than happy to knock you off that high horse of yours and give you a much needed reality check.

more detailed review can be found on my blog:
http://sarabooklover.blogspot.co.uk/2...

[Laney · Rating 5 out of 5]

When i first started reading this book, i wasn't sure how i felt about it. The main character is very intimidating, straight forward and not afraid to say what they think.
But i absolutely loved that about her. Natasha, or "Tash" as she likes to be called, is your every day (yet not so everyday) eighteen year old high schooler with a nasty nickname attached to her back. With a rough past, and a seemingly rougher present, we come to meet her in the process of getting ready for graduation from a high school where she hangs near the bottom of the food chain. The different thing about Tash is she is more likely to stick a middle finger in your face and kick you where the sun don't shine than bow her head and take it. She isn't afraid to tell it how it is.
With the door to high school closing, however, the threats of the more popular clan on her best friend, Margot, seem to be reaching an all too unbearable high. While her friend battles an eating disorder and name calling, Tash feels to need to make things even with those who seek to destroy the only real love shes ever felt in her life (her friend, of course). The book takes you on an incredible story of self realization and acceptance that anyone with a less than loved high school past should read.
This book has a way of making you feel angry when you begin to read it, just because of the background of the character. The things that happened to her were unforgivable on many accounts and while the character tells the read to "not feel bad for her" you cant help but do so. Its not so much that you feel bad about what happened, you feel bad that there was no one there to stick up for her. In fact, she was the one sticking up for others. But i could also really connect with her there, as I was also the one to stick up for my friends when the words went flying their way. But i firmly believe that most people have had to deal with these situations, and in such an event would have done the same thing as Tash had it been their friends being victimized.
Her story is so real, you almost get whiplash from the truth. Especially with the F bombs being dropped (There is a disclaimer in the beginning, and it should be heeded, but the book should not be judged because of it).
But in all. I. Love. It. I very much love the honesty, the inner strength of the character, and the truth of what can actually happen (and does happen) within the halls of a school. Where the victims become the punished all too easily (especially by the teachers). I feel like Tash's story is one that someone has to take very seriously, and let open their eyes to the world around them.
This story was very beautiful, and i enjoyed every word, even the not-so-kind ones =P.


This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review(Thank you so much for the opportunity!).

[Sainabou · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my thoughts on it.

I have had this book for a while now, like two weeks but I have been unable to read it because I have so many other books I was supposed to be reading (for challenges and such), but I put my foot down today and I seriously couldn’t put it down. I loved how Isobel added a disclaimer telling the reader exactly what they were in for. In my case, it just made me curious to read more.

Tash is a high school student in very unfortunate circumstances: she lives in a trailer park, she is at war with her mother and goes to a high school were people spread rumours about her, calling her a “slut”, “skank”, everything in the book really. She plans on running away with her best friend Margot to Los Angeles as soon as they graduate which is four months away.

But then she hits a snag when something happens to Margot thanks to Becca Foster, one of the bullies in Guthrie High. She decides to get back at her by beating Becca in her own game, that is, by being more popular.

This book is freaking amazing. It is raw and uncut, there are no euphemisms and I love that. It is written in Tash’s point of view and she is bluntly honest about her life and even though she completely hides her life from everyone, I felt like I was privileged to know more about her than everyone else. She also has a really funny way of telling us the horrible stuff that happened to her in such a “Devil may care” tone that you can’t help but laugh but then you want to protect her as well. It is always a bonus when you are that connected to characters that you are reading about.

Tash has been abused in all ways possible by so many people but somehow she is always protecting Margot no matter what and that makes her such an amazing person, even if she doesn’t think so. When Grant starts talking and being nice to her, she just thinks that he has an ulterior motive like everyone else. This saddened me so much as someone like me would just appreciate the gesture right and not try to find out why I am being helped and what the person wants in return.

There are a lot of things I would love to touch on while I’m talking about the book but I will completely ruin the story for you so you just have to take my word for it and read this book. It was so good that as soon as I finished and saw that the second book has already been released, I went on Amazon and purchased it straight away especially since I will get to know more about Grant :).

So I think it’s safe to say that I have a new favourite author. This book was so well written and she captured the essence of the characters so well that I felt like they were coming out of the page. I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series.

[Lillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note to Readers: this book's plot centers around sexual abuse, teen bullying, eating disorders, and suicide. Also strong language. Read at your own risk

PROMISCUOUS is a story told by Natasha "Tash" Bohner, an eighteen year old who at a very young age learns to distrust everyone. Tash is angry at the world and how she feels it views her, as a slut, trailer trash, and dirty. But after her best friend "checks out" of life, Tash decides to get revenge. Through this, she meets a boy, Grant Blue who in her estimation is perfect in every way. And it is Grant that helps her see herself for what she could be, not for what everyone believes her to be.

First let me just say I loved this book, I hated this book, and then I loved it even more! The writing is outstanding. It's funny, ironic, and at times I feel like I'm gabbing with my best friend. Throughout the story Tash is talking to you the reader, she even insults you many times making it very hard to like her. But in spite of those things, I loved her! I related to her struggles even though I personally have never experienced the horrors that she did as a child.

The author creates a world of high school hell, one I remember well. And with Tash's words, I felt like I was right back there. Her best friend Margot is lovable, frail, and so relatable to many of the girls I went to school with. Then there's the perfect guy, Grant Blue who "seems to deserve a classification apart fom everyday human beings." He's valedictorian, her tutor, and for some reason she can't fathom he thinks she deserves "better." I think we all had a Grant Blue! I know I did. Oh and Becca Foster!!! The penultimate mean girl......the way this character is described by Tash made me want to find this person and shove her head in a toilet (and I am not a violent person, but she would so drive me to it)! I hated her with a passion! Not sure I've ever felt that kind of hatred towards a fictional character, yet maybe it's because we all knew a girl just like her in high school. Ugh! and Trent Gibson....yuck! That's all I'll say about him.

This book, for no better way of explanation, is somewhat of a modern day telling of Cinderella, without the fairy tale part. It sends a good message to young women to stand up for yourself, that you are worth it, and you did not ask for it.
So my parting thought, Tash deserves a second chance and a happily ever after!

I received a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You deserve better"

No one has ever said those words to Tash, and she certainly did not ever stop to think it herself. Given the history and the rumors that have spread like wildfire, Tash has started to think she is "dirty" and living up to the persona that everyone is convinced she is. Until one day when the mean girls go to far. Then Tash decides to make an effort, and in the process, realizes that she might actually deserve better. If only she can keep from messing it all up.

At first I was unsure of this story. Tash comes off as crass, loud and abrasive. It isn't until you find out more about her, and realize that it is an act to protect herself that I started to enjoy it. You cheer for her at times, as well as wish you could reach the pages and shake her for being so stubborn. This novel definitely brings out your own emotions, which I think is the trademark of a good story.

Everyone knows, either personally or through their "reputation" a girl like Tash from high school. Someone who has stories, that when you really stop to think about them, are so outlandish that there is no way they are true. Yet, students continue to ostracize them and target them. The author makes you glimpse life from that person's point of view. This is something that needs to be done more often.

I like that the author makes a point to show that Tash is just a girl whos life gave her very sour lemons and who chose to make lemon drops instead of lemonade. She also does an excellent job of illustrating just how quickly dismissed people can be if they come from the wrong part of town, or have a "history". Even when someone attacks her, she feels she can't come forward because of her unearned reputation. Even though she was the victim she would be blamed and in even more trouble. No one should ever be put in that position. No one should have to be afraid that someone who is just trying to be nice, always has an ulterior motive.

I think the part that really hit home with me though, is the fact the author is speaking from experience. Instead of trying to write from an outsiders perspective and drumming up drama, the characters and events are based on her life. This to me helped add gravity and seriousness to the topics explored in the novel. It isn't happening to some character on a page, it actually happened to a person. It was actually happening to the girl in your high school. It was happening to a girl in my high school. Hopefully though, through education and conversation, we can eventually stop this from happening.

[Jess (jessreads1985) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was really good and I was pleasantly surprised by it. The cover itself drew me in, but Tash's story had me hooked to the pages. Seriously, I can't believe I didn't discover this series sooner! It tackles real serious issues that teens may face with and can possibly relate to. Though there is plenty of sarcastic humor, friendship, and romance to balance it out.

What I love about Isobel's characters is that they are not perfect. Each one them has their flaws and personal struggles, but me this makes them more real and gives them more depth. The main narrator Natasha "Tash" has definitely topped the list as one of my favorite book heroines. She's strong and can stick up for herself, and I admired her unwavering loyalty and protectiveness to her best friend Margot. She may cuss like a sailor, but her wicked sarcasm totally makes up for it. Bottom line.. Tash rules in my eyes!

"His sideways egg-shaped face does not look impressed. "You assaulted a fellow student. On school property. During class. In front of witnesses. You tell me, Miss. Bohner. How am I not supposed to expel you?"

"Expel? I swallow. Well, shit. There goes my dream of making night manager at the Los Angeles Baskin Robbins". ~Mr. Shoemaker and Tash

Then there is Grant Blue, who I just happen to be absolutely in love with. Sorry Tash. What a great guy. He is soft spoken, kind, considerate, caring, and handsome. I must say when I saw the author's choice actor for Grant (Paul Wesley) I may have melted into a puddle. At first Tash refers to him as "Mr. Perfect", but like I said no is perfect.

"Now, I can't help but see him as Grant: fellow flawed human being. And goddamn it, that only makes me like him more than ever". ~Tash

I enjoyed watching the relationship form between Grant and Tash. I liked how they developed a friendship first and truly came to understand and confined in one another. The secondary characters were a wonderful addition, especially Aunt Dottie and Nana. My heart broke for Margot. That poor girl went through so much. The ending was on a good note and no cliffhanger, but I am excited to know there is more to the series with Grant and Margot's stories next. I can't wait!

My review also posted at: http://jesstimetoread.blogspot.com

[Rose Sinclair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy A meets Mean Girls with a strong shot of reality.

There is a personal note from Isobel Irons at the start of the book. Commenting how she might not be the best person to write this story, but I think she really sells herself short. It’s hard to cover such sensitive topics or even to make people realize how simple words can harm, but it’s done so well that the story never feels insincere. Jam packed with strong language and a perfect example how the varied use of fuck doesn't mean a limited vocabulary or intelligence. If anyone debates you on that, free feel to hurl this book at them. (Or maybe just nicely put this book in their hands.)

Before getting this book you should know it covers rough topics. This they make you uncomfortable, maybe you shouldn't read it. Or maybe, you are someone who could really benefit from this tale. You know yourself more than me.

PROMISCUOUS is wonderfully written and very engaging. I tore through this book in record time. The voice is very authentic making the whole story believable, and even more heart breaking at times. This book is never predictable and always left me on the edge of my seat either with worry or hope.

Two extra shout-outs. The first goes to Grant Blue. While he doesn't steal the show since Tash's voice is so strong, he might have stolen a bit of my heart. The second shout-out is to the author herself, for her proper usage of asexual. Taking up only a sentence in the story but important since she could have taken the cop out and appropriated the term incorrectly towards Tash after her experiences. Making the usage respectful and so much more powerful for people like Tash, that she didn't label her as such.

This book gets a wholehearted 5 out 5 stars. I almost wish this book was standard reading in schools, since it covers so many important and sensitive subjects that people should be aware of. The content will never make the feasible and in a perfect world we wouldn't need it. But since we live in a gritty world that is full of anger, pain, and abuse of ourselves, others, and the words we use, Isobel Irons’ novel will stand offering a heartfelt message for anyone who wants to hear.

[Jessica Gomez · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW! Someone finally said it!

The focus points in this story, every single one of them, NEED TO BE TALKED ABOUT MORE!

Tash is the girl from the wrong side of town, and then the wrong side of that town too. Who has had every possible messed up situation in life happen to her. The story is about her growing up and the incidents that happen to her, to high school. Her and her best friend Margot are "surviving" their senor year together. Margot has as many dark secrets as Tash. Okay, maybe not quite so many, but just as bad in their own right.

When Margot goes to the extreme, and betrays Tash in her own way, Tash decides to take things into her own hands. No better way to go out her senor year, than get even with the girl who tormented Margot into the unthinkable.

Grant... what should I say about him. He sounds like the all American, EVERYTHING! Guys like him don't come around very often, and the truly good ones, like Grant, are meant to be held on to. When he befriends Tash she doesn't know what to make of it. Is he only trying to get close to hurt her, to trick her somehow? Because nobody does anything for nothing. ;)

When I began this story, I could honestly say, I wasn't to sure how it would turn out for me. Then BAM! Everything unraveled and I found myself cheering Tash on more than a few times. Everyone looks at people and judges them before even knowing anything about them. (Bad humans.) Tash throughout the story, showed herself to be extremely strong, smart, and determined not to let other peoples opinions bring her down. She is such a strong young women and she doesn't even realize it because of all the influences and lack of support she received in very horrible situations.

I for one would like to thank Isobel for taking many close-to-heart situations to light. THESE THINGS DO HAPPEN PEOPLE! More times than we would care to admit. I think everyone should take a little lesson from Tash and smack their own "Trents" in the face with a math book. Preferably the extended addition. (metaphorically of course) Stand up for yourself, believe in yourself, and never forget you are worth everything.

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off, there is a lot of cursing in Promiscuous. It's told from a first person perspective, and Tash does not pull any punches. She will tell you that herself - in one of many passages where she talks to the reader. She has a very 'in your face' style too - directly aggressive, and assumes a lot about the type of person reading her story. In some ways I liked how forthright she was, and the fact that she did talk to me as a reader because it was quite different. In others, I felt annoyed by her assumptions about my life - just as annoyed as she was saying she was by people's assumptions about her.

Tash has a hard life. She doesn't have much by way of parents or friends. Really its just her and her friend Margot, who is pretty weak. Tash forces herself to be brash and pretends to be emotionally resilient because she fears displaying her feelings. She has to be strong for herself and for Margot - she manages really pretty well, but comes to realise that she can't do a lot to help Margot. This story is about Tash getting over herself really, and realising that she doesn't have to let her past tarnish her future, but the only way to move forward is to stop being so angry. That takes her a while to realise, and on the way she suffers quite a bit. She makes some poor and impulsive choices, and lives with the consequences, which were quite nasty and threatening. She also plots revenge, although she comes to realise that there's not much point, which I was glad about.

There is a love interest, Grant Blue, who was pretty dreamy. Cue angst from Tash about how different they were, and how she under rates herself so much that she doesn't believe anyone would really be interested in her. She has a reputation, and has let people say whatever they like about her really, because she believes she is damaged goods. That is where the title of the book comes from. I think that the title doesn't really sit well with the story though - its not about promiscuity at all. Its about bad reputations, emotional damage and letting go of past trauma so that it doesn't ruin the future.

This was a good read, but won't be for anyone of a sensitive disposition.

[Kasey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book kind of started off on the wrong foot for me. It wasn't that I didn't understand what the author was trying to do, but I didn't need the over-explanation in the beginning of the book. I've read Dorian Gray and I read enough to know what caveat means. I don't need entire paragraphs or almost full pages telling me. That really annoyed me.
Aside from that I actually really enjoyed this book. I felt bad for Tash, she had an extremely hard life. I hate reading about child abuse, and especially seeing the way it impacted her whole life I felt myself wanting to punch her mother. What kind of person just closes their eyes to their child's suffering?

I really liked Tash's growth as a character. She was so angry in the beginning, and while that didn't go away she did start to learn how to manage it. That I think was the best part about this novel was that every character grew as a person, and significantly too. I liked the romance aspect because it really moved slowly. If things had moved faster I would have been more upset because it would not have meshed with who Grant was.

Overall I really enjoyed it and I would give it 4 out of 5 stars. Mostly because there was too much over-explaining on certain things.

[Kori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow..... what a story of high school issues, deep seated pain and one pissed off kick ass chick!! This book made me laugh, cringe, irate, blubbery, depressed, mushy, and so much more.

God it reminded me of freakin high school..... something I don't ever like to remember at all. But on to the actual story. The main girl Natasha is one angry chica and she has every right to be. She was dealt one shitty hand in life. And it seemed to never end. Luckily she had a friend in life named Margot, who also has demons of her own. These two face the pressures and bullies that come with the wonderful high school experience.

Now she warns you at the start this isn't a fairy tale and it DEFINATELY is not. Plus the cinderella in this book isn't you r typical sweet, polite and ever giving female. This one is angry, cuss like a sailor, and kick your ads if you look at me wrong type. But I don't think this takes away from the story at all. It actually improves it I think.

The only complaint I would have is it ended really fast. I mean you are built up so much for this one thing and it happens and ends in just a few pages. But other then that I enjoyed this book. I felt it was actually real instead of just every girls fantasy.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I gave this book a five out of five stars although I would have given it more if I could because the story grabbed me immediately thanks to Isobel's writing as it naturally draws you in to the story. The fact that the story is told from the first person perspective of the protagonist Tash is really clever and is another reason why the story grabbed me immediately.

This is the second Cinderella retelling that I have read the first one being Cinder which I loved but I think this one was actually better than that one. I preferred this one to Cinder because I Connected with the protagonist in the book easier than I did with Cinder as I was bullied when I was a school so I could understand where she was coming form.

I loved the character development that occurred for Tash from the beginning of the book, being an angry insecure girl with one friend and no boyfriend, to being a more rounded girl with less anger issues, a best friend, some other friends and a boyfriend.

[Auradria Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried, I loved this story.
I thought for sure as soon as I started reading and the F-word was draped many times that I would find myself putting the story down. But I just couldn't. I like the way it was written from a troubled teen POV and teens will drop the word left and right. It made the story seem more realistic, like it could happen to anyone or be anyone, it could even be a friend.
I found myself drawn to each of the characters and wanting to find out more about them.
I cannot wait to read Obsessive and find out more about Grant and his family. I really hope it continues onto Margots story I'm really interested in what happened in her past.
I'm trying to refrain from any spoilers. Yes, it is that good if you can get over the F word, and it's really not that bad.
I really hope any new readers will at least get past the first few chapters and let it grab them and pull them into what can happen in the real world.

[LAKristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely well written. The bitterness and cynicism of the 18-year girl who tells this tale is tough to get through -- you want to like her, but she makes you work for it, which happens to be a lot like the story she's telling. It's a sad, infuriating, realistic tale of what many people, probably the majority of kids feel, at some point in their high school experience, as they make their way through those years just wanting to be invisible enough to survive, but special enough for someone to love them as they wait to graduate and get on with the rest of their lives.

As you discover at the end of this tale, most of this was based on the author's personal experience, including the ending which hints at the possibility of happily ever after -- no guarantees, but the potential is definitely there.

This read is well worth your time.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a long time since a book has reached out and grabbed me like this one did. Promiscuous is a story that's been told a thousand times, as Tash tells us, perfect 90's made for TV movie. But Tash is real, raw, and angry and that's what makes the story. She's in your face and unapologetic for who she is, what happened to her, or what she is going to do. Even though she's been a victim all her life, she's no victim, if that makes any sense. She's mad as hell and she's not going to take it anymore.

Besides Tash being a fantastic character, it was her voice that sets this story apart. I felt like I was listening to a pissed off teenager who had zero fucks to give and absolutely nothing to lose. It wasn't an author telling the story. It was Tash.

I had to pick up a book called Promiscuous, and I'm so glad Isobel gave me a review copy to read.

[RedRedtheycallmeRed · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 STARS


Tash is a very tough character to like, she makes it hard! It is understandable why she's so bitter, her life has just been one crappy event after another. My favorite part about her is her loyalty to her friend Margot. Margot is the favorite target of Becca, the resident "mean girl" in their high school.

When the bullying of Margot goes too far, Tash decides to take down Becca. The prank Tash pulls on Becca was pretty cruel, and some would say she deserved it, but (to me) that just made Tash seem even more like Becca.

Grant was a great guy, so very sweet, but honestly, his interest in Tash seemed *too* fairy tale like. Tash was such a bitch to him, so often, I wondered why he didn't just give up.

While I didn't love it, there's a lot to like here, definitely worth reading.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

What is there not to like about this book. This is totally me.

Isobel, I want to say thank you.

"Tash" is me years ago, there was a Grant Blue in my life, which makes me sad no we did not end up together only because he wanted to see what females he could get ( he's now 30 and unmarried LOL)

Having been in this characters shoes and feeling the pain and anger towards people, I felt this was a book meant for me. Or at least written for me. I didn't grow up in a trailer park but in the ghetto.

If you were ever the awkward girl in school, with multiple labels other than popular this is a great read.

Who give a fuck if there is FUCK, SHIT, CUNT every now and then in the book.

I appreciate the authors sincere feelings

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book! It covers some pretty serious issues including sexual abuse, rape, bullying, anorexia/bulimia, suicide, etc through the point of view of Tash who is such a brutally honest character just trying to make it through the last few months of high school. This is a bit of a Cinderalla story, with a punk edge. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the humor (I too have a bit of a trucker mouth) while also holding my breath through some scenes just hoping Tash would get through everything.

I've added this to my "Series to Continue" shelf and am looking forward to checking out the next installment and learning more about Tash's boyfriend, Grant (and hopefully more of Tash).

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is quite a different type of read. The story is written as if the author is speaking directly to you the reader. You find out why it is written like this at the end of the book. Since the author is speaking directly to the reader, she tends to be a smart mouth, which makes it a very humorous read. It is forewarned that the F-bomb is used 144 times; however, it flows naturally throughout the book within Natasha's character. It's sad to think that some kids are actually raised to believe that they are not worth anything, like in this story. Promiscuous is a funny present day slummed out version of Cinderella. I am definitely reading book two.

[J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wry humor, cringe worthy events and the razor edged fault lines of young adulthood up are all part of Isobel Irons' slashing novel "Promiscous." This is high octane high school drama will keep you awake, even after you have read the last paragraph. Within it's pages Natasha "Tash" Bohner battles her own demons, the reigning high school queen and her sycophants, her best friend's anorexia, the jock-rapist-in-training and a school administration that has blinders on. Her weapons are style, intelligence and a thirst for revenge that is bitterly funny. The language will offend some, so be warned. However, the underlying story is worth the risk, even if your middle name is goody-two-shoes.

[Dana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very different than many books in the NA genre. Smart, cynical, and ultimately a great lesson for those in that age group (In the long run, high school means nothing).

It's unfortunate that while this is a really good work of fiction, there is too much real life enclosed in its pages. Even though it's been many, many years since I left high school, there is nothing in this book that didn't happen in some way, shape or form while I was there. It's great that the author was so boldly honest in her writing, but sad that she needed to write it (if you know what I mean).

Looking forward to continuing the series and getting more info on Grant.

[GTR33GURL · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book it was very emotional and dealt with some very heavy issues things like abuse,anorexia,OCD just to name a few Tash was an awesome person very tough but also damaged with all the abuse she's had to put up with her BFF was amazing but damaged as well they supported each other then you have Grant beautiful perfect Grant that has Tash feeling all tingly about but he's not as perfect as everyone thinks struggling with OCD I enjoyed the journey that Tash went on I can't wait for the next book obsession!!!