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Crushed #2
Unbreakable
Perception is everything to sixteen-year-old Olivia Brown. With her freakishly hot boyfriend, volunteer work at the local animal shelter, successful beauty channel on YouTube, and well-earned spot on X Factor Cheer's elite level five Diamond Girl team, Livvie's the girl every other girl wants to be. At least, that's the illusion she's aiming for.
But Livvie's seemingly perfect life is anything but. Lying about the bruises her boyfriend gives her, and cowering beneath his raging temper becomes a regular way of life until she unwittingly witnesses her drunken neighbor beating his step-son, the town bad boy, Reid Tate.
For Reid, vulnerability is the enemy. Opening up, and letting people in gives them the power to disappoint. Growing up with a co-dependent mother and an abusive alcoholic father, Reid has endured all the disappointment he can stomach.
But when his pretty, do-good neighbor witnesses his step-dad beat him to within an inch of his life, and not only call the cops, but keeps quiet at school about what she saw, Reid wonders if maybe, just maybe, he's found someone he can finally trust.
But Livvie's seemingly perfect life is anything but. Lying about the bruises her boyfriend gives her, and cowering beneath his raging temper becomes a regular way of life until she unwittingly witnesses her drunken neighbor beating his step-son, the town bad boy, Reid Tate.
For Reid, vulnerability is the enemy. Opening up, and letting people in gives them the power to disappoint. Growing up with a co-dependent mother and an abusive alcoholic father, Reid has endured all the disappointment he can stomach.
But when his pretty, do-good neighbor witnesses his step-dad beat him to within an inch of his life, and not only call the cops, but keeps quiet at school about what she saw, Reid wonders if maybe, just maybe, he's found someone he can finally trust.
ebook
First published June 4, 2014
About the author
Elisa Dane
9 books248 followersELISA DANE is a self-proclaimed book junkie. A lover of handbags, chocolate, and reality television, she's a proud mother to three All- Star cheerleaders. Writing is her absolute passion, and it's her mission to create stories that will not only take you on a romantic journey that will warm your heart, but help you find a new respect and interest in the sport of All-Star cheerleading.
Elisa is no stranger to the publishing world. She writes steamy paranormal romance under her real name, Lisa Sanchez. Her adult works include the Hanford Park series (Eve Of Samhain, Pleasures Untold, and Faythe Reclaimed), Obsessed (an erotic suspense), and a paranormal novella, Cursing Athena. Elisa lives in Northern California with her husband, three daughters, and a feisty Chihuahua who stubbornly believes she's human.
You can connect with Elisa at the following places on the web:
Facebook - Elisa Dane, and Lisa Sanchez Romance Author
Twitter - @ElisaDane, and @LisaSanchez3
Website - elisadane.com, and LisaSanchezRomanceAuthor.com
Elisa is no stranger to the publishing world. She writes steamy paranormal romance under her real name, Lisa Sanchez. Her adult works include the Hanford Park series (Eve Of Samhain, Pleasures Untold, and Faythe Reclaimed), Obsessed (an erotic suspense), and a paranormal novella, Cursing Athena. Elisa lives in Northern California with her husband, three daughters, and a feisty Chihuahua who stubbornly believes she's human.
You can connect with Elisa at the following places on the web:
Facebook - Elisa Dane, and Lisa Sanchez Romance Author
Twitter - @ElisaDane, and @LisaSanchez3
Website - elisadane.com, and LisaSanchezRomanceAuthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
June 15, 2014
When I read the first chapter in the back of the previous boo I knew that I had to read this book, when I got an early copy off the publicist I was surprised but excited and read as fast as humanly possible to finish by current reads so that I could open the pages of Unbreakable and make a start on it.
One thing that I liked when I began reading was how Unbreakable not only follows on from Ex-Factor, but also lets us keep with the familiar characters from the previous book and see how they are doing. Unbreakable was just as much of a page turner as Ex-Factor, and I found myself once again absorbed in the world Elisa has created, tuning page after page to find out what on earth would happen next.
As with all books, there are characters you love, and characters you loath, and the very select few that sit on the fence waiting for you to decide over their fate. With Unbreakable, Livvie was one of the characters whom I loved instantly, and I like how we get to see more of her as she features in her own story. JP was a character that initially sat on the fence. Some of his actions in the beginning towards Livvie were nice, but the way he occasionally spoke to her had be doubting him a bit. When his true colours were finally revealed I hated him with a passion, I wanted Livvie to open her eyes and take in the situation from an outside perspective and really see what was going on. Reid was someone who I quickly loathed. I disliked his attitude, and his general behaviour towards others, but when we really get to see him, see his thoughts, his feelings, and his reasoning, my heart did melt a bit and he was quickly moved to the other side of the fence.
I don't want to go into to much detail about what happens in the pages of Unbreakable, what I have mentioned above is really all you will get story wise from me. I will tell you though that after reading Ex-Factor I didn't think I would be as impressed with Unbreakable as I was, but I was pleasantly surprised. I loved the world just as much as I previously did, and although we have see the characters and the places before, seeing them from someone else's eyes they still felt new to me. The skills that the cheer team use impressed me even more than they did, and there is no way I could ever imagine doing what they do, I can just about manage a sort of cartwheel....if it doesn't have to be straight....and I don't have to go all the way from one side to the other.....okay, so maybe I can manage a full roll over ;)
Finishing Unbreakable was both a happy and sad ending, more sad for me as now I have to wait forever for the next instalment (please say there is a new instalment) and I am looking forward to seeing what else Elisa can bring to the table, and who will be next to feature in their own book (if there is going to be a new book).
One thing that I liked when I began reading was how Unbreakable not only follows on from Ex-Factor, but also lets us keep with the familiar characters from the previous book and see how they are doing. Unbreakable was just as much of a page turner as Ex-Factor, and I found myself once again absorbed in the world Elisa has created, tuning page after page to find out what on earth would happen next.
As with all books, there are characters you love, and characters you loath, and the very select few that sit on the fence waiting for you to decide over their fate. With Unbreakable, Livvie was one of the characters whom I loved instantly, and I like how we get to see more of her as she features in her own story. JP was a character that initially sat on the fence. Some of his actions in the beginning towards Livvie were nice, but the way he occasionally spoke to her had be doubting him a bit. When his true colours were finally revealed I hated him with a passion, I wanted Livvie to open her eyes and take in the situation from an outside perspective and really see what was going on. Reid was someone who I quickly loathed. I disliked his attitude, and his general behaviour towards others, but when we really get to see him, see his thoughts, his feelings, and his reasoning, my heart did melt a bit and he was quickly moved to the other side of the fence.
I don't want to go into to much detail about what happens in the pages of Unbreakable, what I have mentioned above is really all you will get story wise from me. I will tell you though that after reading Ex-Factor I didn't think I would be as impressed with Unbreakable as I was, but I was pleasantly surprised. I loved the world just as much as I previously did, and although we have see the characters and the places before, seeing them from someone else's eyes they still felt new to me. The skills that the cheer team use impressed me even more than they did, and there is no way I could ever imagine doing what they do, I can just about manage a sort of cartwheel....if it doesn't have to be straight....and I don't have to go all the way from one side to the other.....okay, so maybe I can manage a full roll over ;)
Finishing Unbreakable was both a happy and sad ending, more sad for me as now I have to wait forever for the next instalment (please say there is a new instalment) and I am looking forward to seeing what else Elisa can bring to the table, and who will be next to feature in their own book (if there is going to be a new book).
September 27, 2014
Much better than the first book. (And I liked that one too!)
The things I liked with EX-factor was still present. Sweet romance, important theme and a good flow. But this time the author let the characters make the point instead of telling me. I really enjoyed Livvie, she was a great heroine. Vulnerable, kind and still strong. Reid was great but this time the girl was my favourite. The theme of abuse, secrets that hurt you and learning to stand up for yourself is very important and I think it was handled well. Even if there was some extra drama added to make the story more suspensful. The only thing that kind of bothered me was the short time frame. But that felt like a minor thing though.
The things I liked with EX-factor was still present. Sweet romance, important theme and a good flow. But this time the author let the characters make the point instead of telling me. I really enjoyed Livvie, she was a great heroine. Vulnerable, kind and still strong. Reid was great but this time the girl was my favourite. The theme of abuse, secrets that hurt you and learning to stand up for yourself is very important and I think it was handled well. Even if there was some extra drama added to make the story more suspensful. The only thing that kind of bothered me was the short time frame. But that felt like a minor thing though.
November 10, 2021
Another great book...
This is another great book by Elisa Dane. She again touched on a few subjects that most teens never think about like rape, all types of abuse and control issue in relationships. It was really well researched and very thorough throughout the book. I gave it a 4.5 if it was possisble!
This is another great book by Elisa Dane. She again touched on a few subjects that most teens never think about like rape, all types of abuse and control issue in relationships. It was really well researched and very thorough throughout the book. I gave it a 4.5 if it was possisble!
June 23, 2014
I am super excited to have book 2 in the Diamond Girls series!
In book two, Elisa Dane tackles another subject matter that is a rough one to put out there. I love that is is done in such a tactful manner.
Liv, Nev's cousin slides into the MC position and boy does it get grit-ty!
I love that Nev is still in this one and that it branches off in a direction that I personally wasn't expecting.
Wow just whoa! It was most definitely a stunner in more than one spot.
I was pretty much staggeringly speechless in several points as well, man did the author get the obsessive boyfriend down! My skin crawled on some parts seriously!
Thjs read carried alot of emotion for me. I laughed, I cried, I swooned and I was drawn in a hundred thousand percent! The progression of things moved at a steady pace and my excitement was maybe a tad out of control. I was giddy reading this book. Yes you heard me... I think it was all about Reid and his melt your insides to goo drool worthy swoon-tastic abilities that had me mesmerized.
Okay let me just say it... I heart me some Reid Tate! There. That's better. Great character and the makings of perfection of the male persuasion in a YA Read!
The characters, storyline, pace and everything rocked!
Two thumbs up, two hundred stars and yes please!
I cannot stress enough that this is an important book for young females to read. It gives a 360 from all points of view of how things like that happen and are accepted so often.
I was so frustrated at points and scared poopless in some spots for sure! I recommend this book highly.
This series in fact is a really great YA Contemporary read.
The story is extremely engaging and I had no problem getting through it quickly and yes my cuticles suffered immensely.
Whatever Elisa Dane is writing, I'm reading! I can't wait for the Diamond Girls book 3!
In book two, Elisa Dane tackles another subject matter that is a rough one to put out there. I love that is is done in such a tactful manner.
Liv, Nev's cousin slides into the MC position and boy does it get grit-ty!
I love that Nev is still in this one and that it branches off in a direction that I personally wasn't expecting.
Wow just whoa! It was most definitely a stunner in more than one spot.
I was pretty much staggeringly speechless in several points as well, man did the author get the obsessive boyfriend down! My skin crawled on some parts seriously!
Thjs read carried alot of emotion for me. I laughed, I cried, I swooned and I was drawn in a hundred thousand percent! The progression of things moved at a steady pace and my excitement was maybe a tad out of control. I was giddy reading this book. Yes you heard me... I think it was all about Reid and his melt your insides to goo drool worthy swoon-tastic abilities that had me mesmerized.
Okay let me just say it... I heart me some Reid Tate! There. That's better. Great character and the makings of perfection of the male persuasion in a YA Read!
The characters, storyline, pace and everything rocked!
Two thumbs up, two hundred stars and yes please!
I cannot stress enough that this is an important book for young females to read. It gives a 360 from all points of view of how things like that happen and are accepted so often.
I was so frustrated at points and scared poopless in some spots for sure! I recommend this book highly.
This series in fact is a really great YA Contemporary read.
The story is extremely engaging and I had no problem getting through it quickly and yes my cuticles suffered immensely.
Whatever Elisa Dane is writing, I'm reading! I can't wait for the Diamond Girls book 3!
June 19, 2014
Unbreakable is the second book in The Diamond Girl series but could easily be read as a stand alone. This book was just as touching as Ex-factor and brought back many of the loveable characters from the first story. This book focused on Olivia or Livvie, Nev's cousin. She has been dating J.P. for almost a year and is in love with him. She feels so special that he picked her out of all the girls he could have. Then why does she not want to go all the way with him? Why does her personality change in his presence?
Livvie is a perfect girl or so others think. She never curses, in fact she has funny names she says for curse words (Fudge Pop instead of the obvious other word) so to stop her from saying bad words. Yes, she is thought of as a goody two shoes, she is envied and hated by some and adored by some others.
Reid Tate is pretty much everything that Livvie is not. He is hard, unemotional and driven to start fights. He is Olivia's next door neighbor and Livvie knows something that others don't see about him. He is confident and sarcastic towards her. He thinks that she is better than him and he doesn't associate with people like her. Then why is he always saving her from J.P when her boyfriends anger gets out of control? Why does he always seem to be there when she needs someone the most? Could it by that Reid is more than meets the eye?
This book deals with an important issue as well, just as the first does. There were times in this book that I felt like hitting Livvie up side the head for some of the decisions she made that ultimately led to her getting in some bad situations. However, after reflecting upon my younger years, I know that I or you could have made the exact same decisions. That is what makes this books message so good and so well executed.
Livvie is a perfect girl or so others think. She never curses, in fact she has funny names she says for curse words (Fudge Pop instead of the obvious other word) so to stop her from saying bad words. Yes, she is thought of as a goody two shoes, she is envied and hated by some and adored by some others.
Reid Tate is pretty much everything that Livvie is not. He is hard, unemotional and driven to start fights. He is Olivia's next door neighbor and Livvie knows something that others don't see about him. He is confident and sarcastic towards her. He thinks that she is better than him and he doesn't associate with people like her. Then why is he always saving her from J.P when her boyfriends anger gets out of control? Why does he always seem to be there when she needs someone the most? Could it by that Reid is more than meets the eye?
This book deals with an important issue as well, just as the first does. There were times in this book that I felt like hitting Livvie up side the head for some of the decisions she made that ultimately led to her getting in some bad situations. However, after reflecting upon my younger years, I know that I or you could have made the exact same decisions. That is what makes this books message so good and so well executed.
April 25, 2014
To say that I was lucky enough to get an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of this book would be an understatement. Book #2 in the Diamond Girls Series (and my favorite so far), Elisa Dane takes poor sweet Livvie and puts her through the ringer! On top of having to deal with school, cheer AND a job, she's got her douche of a boyfriend to deal with. Her cousin Nev sees what she's going thru but with Livvie being a little on the naive side, it takes her a little longer to see the truth.
Enter Livvie's night and shining armor...Reid Tate is the H.O.T and very drool worthy bad boy. He's got a really messed up home life and sluts galore at his feet. Somehow...someway...Reid and Livvie find their way to each other. Does she reform the bad boy? Nope! Once a bad boy always a bad boy...BUT...she does get under his skin to where he'd do anything for her and be anything for her.
I love how Elisa builds Livvie and Reid's relationship. It isn't forced, nor is it rushed. Reid helps Livvie see that her current relationship is NOT a good one for her.
I absolutely LOVED this book and can't WAIT for everyone to fall in love with it on JUNE 10, 2014!!!
Enter Livvie's night and shining armor...Reid Tate is the H.O.T and very drool worthy bad boy. He's got a really messed up home life and sluts galore at his feet. Somehow...someway...Reid and Livvie find their way to each other. Does she reform the bad boy? Nope! Once a bad boy always a bad boy...BUT...she does get under his skin to where he'd do anything for her and be anything for her.
I love how Elisa builds Livvie and Reid's relationship. It isn't forced, nor is it rushed. Reid helps Livvie see that her current relationship is NOT a good one for her.
I absolutely LOVED this book and can't WAIT for everyone to fall in love with it on JUNE 10, 2014!!!
March 15, 2018
Great book
I really liked the book. The plot was great with just the right amount of angst. Reid was so sweet. I would definitely recomend this book.
The only thing I didn't like was the "I don't do relationships" phrase. I am sick of reading this sentence in almoust every book.
I really liked the book. The plot was great with just the right amount of angst. Reid was so sweet. I would definitely recomend this book.
The only thing I didn't like was the "I don't do relationships" phrase. I am sick of reading this sentence in almoust every book.
April 19, 2017
Another realistic story about a sensitive subject teenagers deal with regularly. Very well done!
February 17, 2021
I was glad to finally go back to this series and meet with the Diamond Girls again. The more I read about them, the more I feel they are definitely a cool group of girls I’d love to surround myself with in real life. Plus, I would’ve loved to be cheerleader in High School, if only that option were available while I was growing up. Nevertheless, there are more than enough reasons to think these girls are cool aside from their awesome athletic skills, especially Livvie.
They are all incredibly loyal and nice. Livvie is trustworthy and what I love, they don’t engage in gossip, nor do they talk back in situations I would most certainly have trouble keeping my mouth quiet. That alone earns my respect for them. Livvie is thrown into a pretty messy situation at some point, gossip related, and she never once thinks about talking back. She deals with the situation with the upmost dignity and discretion. I must admit I tip my hat to her and her friends who were always extremely supportive.
I also loved that Livvie had her own YouTube beauty channel which in itself is pretty awesome. I know I don’t have so much beauty tips I could share, I need to see that channel! (The author did however set up a beauty blog you can check out).
In this instalment the author decided to deal with a more serious issue, in my opinion, than drinking and driving (which was addressed in book #1, Ex-Factor). Livvie had to deal with an abusive man situation, which is much more complicated since it mainly involves the behaviour of other people. It teaches a good lesson on the responsibility we have to choose the people we want to surround ourselves right, and tell them apart spotting the signs. It also sets a good example on how to deal with it if that ever were to happen to you.
The romance was good and in a similar style than the previous book. You can certainly notice a pattern there, but I did enjoy very much to see Livvie and Reid grew closer. Thea uthor really wants to make a point on not judging people on their appearance nor their reputation. Everyone has a back story that determines who they are. It is a deep message we should cherish and pay attention to in a daily basis.
The one major point that really bugged me though, was that the author put way too much emphasis in the fact that Nev had really gone a long way from the last book and how happy she now was. Don’t get me wrong, I love a small reminder of what happened in previous books in a series, and I’m truly happy and proud of Nev. But I felt it was mentioned more than what is necessary. By the end I wanted to scream I get it!
Finally I loved how this book put a great focus into family. The relationship Livvie has with Nev, her cousin and her mum was endearing and I really enjoyed the see the family dynamics they shared.
Overall, this series is going places I really enjoy and I’m glad I have the next book lying around to go straight to it.
Read More at my Blog
They are all incredibly loyal and nice. Livvie is trustworthy and what I love, they don’t engage in gossip, nor do they talk back in situations I would most certainly have trouble keeping my mouth quiet. That alone earns my respect for them. Livvie is thrown into a pretty messy situation at some point, gossip related, and she never once thinks about talking back. She deals with the situation with the upmost dignity and discretion. I must admit I tip my hat to her and her friends who were always extremely supportive.
I also loved that Livvie had her own YouTube beauty channel which in itself is pretty awesome. I know I don’t have so much beauty tips I could share, I need to see that channel! (The author did however set up a beauty blog you can check out).
In this instalment the author decided to deal with a more serious issue, in my opinion, than drinking and driving (which was addressed in book #1, Ex-Factor). Livvie had to deal with an abusive man situation, which is much more complicated since it mainly involves the behaviour of other people. It teaches a good lesson on the responsibility we have to choose the people we want to surround ourselves right, and tell them apart spotting the signs. It also sets a good example on how to deal with it if that ever were to happen to you.
The romance was good and in a similar style than the previous book. You can certainly notice a pattern there, but I did enjoy very much to see Livvie and Reid grew closer. Thea uthor really wants to make a point on not judging people on their appearance nor their reputation. Everyone has a back story that determines who they are. It is a deep message we should cherish and pay attention to in a daily basis.
The one major point that really bugged me though, was that the author put way too much emphasis in the fact that Nev had really gone a long way from the last book and how happy she now was. Don’t get me wrong, I love a small reminder of what happened in previous books in a series, and I’m truly happy and proud of Nev. But I felt it was mentioned more than what is necessary. By the end I wanted to scream I get it!
Finally I loved how this book put a great focus into family. The relationship Livvie has with Nev, her cousin and her mum was endearing and I really enjoyed the see the family dynamics they shared.
Overall, this series is going places I really enjoy and I’m glad I have the next book lying around to go straight to it.
Read More at my Blog
March 5, 2017
When you thought Bodie was perfect enough..
Then Reid Tate comes..
This book is better than the first one (I loved that too tho!) I really love how Elisa Dane puts twist on every ending! <3
Then Reid Tate comes..
This book is better than the first one (I loved that too tho!) I really love how Elisa Dane puts twist on every ending! <3
August 3, 2016
Let me start by saying, these books were right up my alley. Before I read any of the stories, just from reading the synopsis for both books, I knew that I was going to absolutely love them. They have everything that I look for in good contemporary novels. Female characters that you can't help but love, hot guys (though sometimes there are SERIOUS problems with them), adorable romances, strong relationships, and deeper life struggles. Both of these books by Elisa Dane had all of these elements, and I could not help but to rate them both five stars.
The first book in the series is Ex-Factor; however, one of the things I love about these books is that you can read them out of order as a standalone. While some of the characters interact and are related, you do not have to read them in order to understand what is happening in the book. I really liked Nevaeh, though it is clear that she has gone through so much. I like the addition of the cheerleading as well, as it has obviously been a pretty big part of her life up until the point of the book. Enter Bodie, who is a great character as well, struggling through his own issues. I really love the interactions between the two, and how they are trying to help each other through life. It was just wonderful, and I really enjoyed it.
Unbreakable is the second book in the series, though like I said you can really read them in any order and be perfectly fine. This one centers around Olivia, or Livvie, who happens to be Nev's cousin. Livvie is the girl at school that everyone thinks is perfect and has a perfect life; the one who everyone is jealous of. However, she has been hiding a pretty big secret about her "perfect" boyfriend, and her life is not perfect or easy at all. Then she witnesses something next door, her neighbor, Reid, being beat up by his drunk father. Because she does not call the police or say anything about it, Reid actually begins to trust Livvie. I loved that their romance was not instant, as obviously they would both have trust issues because of what they have been through. I really loved the interaction as well.
I would certainly recommend these books to any contemporary fans. I would actually suggest any YA fans check them out, in fact. I do think that just about anyone could enjoy these books as Dane's writing is very well done. The books cover some topics that are very important for anyone to read and learn from. I really enjoyed this series, and I hope that Dane will continue with it.
The first book in the series is Ex-Factor; however, one of the things I love about these books is that you can read them out of order as a standalone. While some of the characters interact and are related, you do not have to read them in order to understand what is happening in the book. I really liked Nevaeh, though it is clear that she has gone through so much. I like the addition of the cheerleading as well, as it has obviously been a pretty big part of her life up until the point of the book. Enter Bodie, who is a great character as well, struggling through his own issues. I really love the interactions between the two, and how they are trying to help each other through life. It was just wonderful, and I really enjoyed it.
Unbreakable is the second book in the series, though like I said you can really read them in any order and be perfectly fine. This one centers around Olivia, or Livvie, who happens to be Nev's cousin. Livvie is the girl at school that everyone thinks is perfect and has a perfect life; the one who everyone is jealous of. However, she has been hiding a pretty big secret about her "perfect" boyfriend, and her life is not perfect or easy at all. Then she witnesses something next door, her neighbor, Reid, being beat up by his drunk father. Because she does not call the police or say anything about it, Reid actually begins to trust Livvie. I loved that their romance was not instant, as obviously they would both have trust issues because of what they have been through. I really loved the interaction as well.
I would certainly recommend these books to any contemporary fans. I would actually suggest any YA fans check them out, in fact. I do think that just about anyone could enjoy these books as Dane's writing is very well done. The books cover some topics that are very important for anyone to read and learn from. I really enjoyed this series, and I hope that Dane will continue with it.
August 4, 2015
After reading Ex-Factor I couldn't wait to jump back into the world of the Diamond Girls! Unbreakable focuses on Livvie, who is Nev's cousin but don't worry Nev still makes an appearance in this book! While this is the 2nd book in the Diamond Girls series it can also be read as a standalone.
I have to say though; I loved this book more than Ex-Factor . In Unbreakable we get the real scoop on Livvie’s life, the life that everyone thinks is perfect but it’s far from. My heart broke for Livvie, she’s such a sweet individual and the harm she endures makes you want to just give her a tight hug and never let go! But Reid Tate beats us to it, the hot bad boy next door. I loved the dynamics of their relationship and how it naturally ran its course to evolve! There wasn’t any insta-love, Reid helps Livvie and his support for her just makes your heart melt!
Overall, Unbreakable is another fantastic YA contemporary by Elisa that has the perfect romance with true elements of personal struggle and search for trust and love from someone. These are both two YA Contemporary reads that you won't want to miss out on! I can’t wait to read whatever Elisa Dane has in stores next!!
June 12, 2014
** JODIE'S 3.5 STAR RATING **
“Cars are easy. Something doesn’t work right? You replace the broken part with a new one. If they’re failing, there’s always a reason and one that’s usually fixable. I can’t really say the same about people.”
Unbreakable is the second book in the Diamond Girls Series, but can be totally be read as a stand-alone! This book centered around Olivia aka Livvie, Nev’s cousin. If you have read book 1 you pretty much know who the players are. However unlike Ex-Factor this book focuses mainly around Livvie! Let me stop here and just say I def think that Ex-factor was a better book, not that I didn’t enjoy this story, I just like the flow better in book 1.
As we know Livvie is that picture perfect girl. She is the perfect character, her hair, her make up, her friends, even the way she talked was perfect! Seriously I was almost turned off with her little words aka Fudge-pop. Let’s add in the mix she is a cheerleader with the most supportive mother in history!! I don’t know but something about her made her hard to attach to. I almost found myself wanting her to screw up, say F***, I don’t know I just wanted her to be more REAL!!
However I will say that Elisa puts this girl through hell in this book!! Livvie has quite a schedule to balance but what makes it almost unbearable is the dick of a boyfriend she is attached to. Seriously J.P. is the biggest Douche in book form. I wanted to not only punch him in the face, but I wanted to just scream at him while doing it. Nev sees all of this going on but can’t convince Livvie to just walk away. Enter me wanting to strangle Livvie with both hands.
And then THANK YOU GOD for Reid Tate, because well, he is pretty much another Bodie. Honestly, I think I almost fell in love with him instantly. He is all bad boy, take care of you, take no s***, isn't changing for anyone, perfection. I will say if given a choice between him or Bodie I would totally pick him.
“Reid’s dark hair, bad boy attitude, and general ‘I’ll drive you through hell and back and you’ll love every minute of it’ was one hundred times more appealing.”
I will say the Reid and Livvie’s relationship left me more attached to them than I was with Nev’s and Bodie’s. There are amazing parts of this book and there are parts that made me want to throttle both of them. If you are a fan of YA you will love this whole series!!
“Cars are easy. Something doesn’t work right? You replace the broken part with a new one. If they’re failing, there’s always a reason and one that’s usually fixable. I can’t really say the same about people.”
Unbreakable is the second book in the Diamond Girls Series, but can be totally be read as a stand-alone! This book centered around Olivia aka Livvie, Nev’s cousin. If you have read book 1 you pretty much know who the players are. However unlike Ex-Factor this book focuses mainly around Livvie! Let me stop here and just say I def think that Ex-factor was a better book, not that I didn’t enjoy this story, I just like the flow better in book 1.
As we know Livvie is that picture perfect girl. She is the perfect character, her hair, her make up, her friends, even the way she talked was perfect! Seriously I was almost turned off with her little words aka Fudge-pop. Let’s add in the mix she is a cheerleader with the most supportive mother in history!! I don’t know but something about her made her hard to attach to. I almost found myself wanting her to screw up, say F***, I don’t know I just wanted her to be more REAL!!
However I will say that Elisa puts this girl through hell in this book!! Livvie has quite a schedule to balance but what makes it almost unbearable is the dick of a boyfriend she is attached to. Seriously J.P. is the biggest Douche in book form. I wanted to not only punch him in the face, but I wanted to just scream at him while doing it. Nev sees all of this going on but can’t convince Livvie to just walk away. Enter me wanting to strangle Livvie with both hands.
And then THANK YOU GOD for Reid Tate, because well, he is pretty much another Bodie. Honestly, I think I almost fell in love with him instantly. He is all bad boy, take care of you, take no s***, isn't changing for anyone, perfection. I will say if given a choice between him or Bodie I would totally pick him.
“Reid’s dark hair, bad boy attitude, and general ‘I’ll drive you through hell and back and you’ll love every minute of it’ was one hundred times more appealing.”
I will say the Reid and Livvie’s relationship left me more attached to them than I was with Nev’s and Bodie’s. There are amazing parts of this book and there are parts that made me want to throttle both of them. If you are a fan of YA you will love this whole series!!
January 2, 2015
I love how this book contained a bunch of things I LOVE in novels. It had characters that were pretty darn cool. There was a perfect amount of romantic elements. There was a common issue between the protagonist and her boy toy. Honestly, this book had SO MANY things within it to make me love the crap out of it.
Livvie took time for me to like. At first, I was adjusting to how different she seemed between the first book and the second. She felt like a whole different character in this one. Ultimately, I liked her, but it was still weird at first. She is also a character that needs to chill and COMMUNICATE. Her issue made it hard for her to feel comfortable telling people, I understand (seriously--I UNDERSTAND), but that doesn't change my feelings. Especially her communication issues with Reid. It took me until close to the end to completely like Livvie, but I respected her and her situation the whole way through the novel.
Reid was my favorite kind of guy. He was a bad boy who didn't exactly make nice with loads of people who he didn't know for a while. Something of a manwhore before Livvie, but he didn't show that in this story, so I couldn't hold it against him. He was a bad boy who was actually a nice guy with his own troubles. And goodness gracious, I heart him something fierce.
The romance made me feel happy inside. It was so sweet to see Reid become the kind of person who helped his girl bake desserts and whatnot. And he was so protective. They made my favorite kind of couple--not exactly surprising, considering he was my favorite kind of guy.
I enjoyed the plot of this one even more than the one of the first book. This one tackled a different topic, and this one was tackled in a much smoother fashion. I LOVED watching the characters deal with their situations and make it through in their own ways. The plot paired with Elisa Dane's writing worked for me positively. I just enjoyed this book oh so much.
Overall, I absolutely loved Unbreakable. I adored Reid and I swooned so much for him. Reid and Livvie's story isn't completely smooth, but it was enjoyable and felt real in so many ways. I can't wait for the third book in this series, so I can fall in love with another work from Elisa Dane!
You can find more from me on my blog: Just a Booklover
Livvie took time for me to like. At first, I was adjusting to how different she seemed between the first book and the second. She felt like a whole different character in this one. Ultimately, I liked her, but it was still weird at first. She is also a character that needs to chill and COMMUNICATE. Her issue made it hard for her to feel comfortable telling people, I understand (seriously--I UNDERSTAND), but that doesn't change my feelings. Especially her communication issues with Reid. It took me until close to the end to completely like Livvie, but I respected her and her situation the whole way through the novel.
Reid was my favorite kind of guy. He was a bad boy who didn't exactly make nice with loads of people who he didn't know for a while. Something of a manwhore before Livvie, but he didn't show that in this story, so I couldn't hold it against him. He was a bad boy who was actually a nice guy with his own troubles. And goodness gracious, I heart him something fierce.
The romance made me feel happy inside. It was so sweet to see Reid become the kind of person who helped his girl bake desserts and whatnot. And he was so protective. They made my favorite kind of couple--not exactly surprising, considering he was my favorite kind of guy.
I enjoyed the plot of this one even more than the one of the first book. This one tackled a different topic, and this one was tackled in a much smoother fashion. I LOVED watching the characters deal with their situations and make it through in their own ways. The plot paired with Elisa Dane's writing worked for me positively. I just enjoyed this book oh so much.
Overall, I absolutely loved Unbreakable. I adored Reid and I swooned so much for him. Reid and Livvie's story isn't completely smooth, but it was enjoyable and felt real in so many ways. I can't wait for the third book in this series, so I can fall in love with another work from Elisa Dane!
You can find more from me on my blog: Just a Booklover
June 14, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Unbreakable is the second book in the Diamond Girls series about the members of an elite cheer squad. Having been a cheerleader myself, I was immediately drawn to this series. Unbreakable can be read as a standalone or after Ex-Factor (which is also a good book so I'd recommend reading it).
Chapter One really drew me in-- it's very well-written and really showcases the two main characters, Livvie and Reid well. Livvie is an amazing girl; you can tell than just from the blurb. The way Ms. Dane portrays Reid at the beginning really sparked my interest. I always love a tortured soul, but he's just plain hot in addition. Both of these characters wormed their way into my heart. In some ways it made reading harder since there is a lot of angst. But it's also great character development when my heart aches right along with Livvie's.
So far this is an interesting series that I think will appeal to anyone who enjoys YA romance. The peeks into the world of competitive cheer are intriguing, allowing us to see that these girls are true athletes in every sense of the word. It's nice when the characters you grew attached to in one novel also appear in the next. It really adds to the overall enjoyment of the novel.
Unbreakable deals with abuse on several different levels, but it is done in a well-written, tasteful manner. However, as you can imagine, it leads to some scenes that can be difficult to read. Add this to your summer TBR list, but maybe read it at home rather than the beach due to the angst.
Unbreakable is the second book in the Diamond Girls series about the members of an elite cheer squad. Having been a cheerleader myself, I was immediately drawn to this series. Unbreakable can be read as a standalone or after Ex-Factor (which is also a good book so I'd recommend reading it).
Chapter One really drew me in-- it's very well-written and really showcases the two main characters, Livvie and Reid well. Livvie is an amazing girl; you can tell than just from the blurb. The way Ms. Dane portrays Reid at the beginning really sparked my interest. I always love a tortured soul, but he's just plain hot in addition. Both of these characters wormed their way into my heart. In some ways it made reading harder since there is a lot of angst. But it's also great character development when my heart aches right along with Livvie's.
So far this is an interesting series that I think will appeal to anyone who enjoys YA romance. The peeks into the world of competitive cheer are intriguing, allowing us to see that these girls are true athletes in every sense of the word. It's nice when the characters you grew attached to in one novel also appear in the next. It really adds to the overall enjoyment of the novel.
Unbreakable deals with abuse on several different levels, but it is done in a well-written, tasteful manner. However, as you can imagine, it leads to some scenes that can be difficult to read. Add this to your summer TBR list, but maybe read it at home rather than the beach due to the angst.
June 18, 2014
Oh my word. This book. The feels. It got me right in the heart. Elisa Dane is a master at writing amazing stories with meaningful messages that teens (everyone, actually!) need to be exposed to. I have so much respect for her! Girl, keep writing these books and I'll keep reading them.
As someone who has survived an abusive relationship, I cannot talk about this book enough. It is hell. It isn't sexy. It isn't fun. It isn't worth it. You are worth more than being an outlet for misguided anger. Unbreakable hit the nail on the head about the issue. I am so thankful for this book. My experiences obviously color my reviews a lot whenever abuse is present, and this is one of the few that I was comfortable with and appreciated the approach. It's about damn time.
Reid was swoon-worthy. I'm so glad that he found Livvie. I loved the two of them together. Livvie was one of my favorite characters from Ex-Factor, so I was glad that this book centered around her. I hate what she had to endure, but her story is inspiring. Also, it was such a treat to get glimpses of Nev and Bodie from the first book in the series. I love when authors do that.
I loved Unbreakable. It was a beautiful story. If you're a fan of young adult and you haven't read The Diamond Girls series, what are you waiting for?!
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Elisa Dane, Swoon Romance, and YA Bound Book Tours.
June 13, 2014
This is the second book in the Diamond Girl series. In book #1 we met Nev. This book focus's on Livvie (Olivia), Nev's cousin.
Livvie: Sweet, innocent and naïve. She is dealing with the craziness of being in high school, the demands of being on the Diamond girls cheer squad, volunteering to help round out her transcript and of course holds down a job. If that's not enough she's got a JERK for a boyfriend.
But then enters..Reid Tate: Drool worthy bad boy. He's got a really messed up home life and tons of girls that are interested in being with the resident "bad boy".
So Livvie and Reid -- yes absolute opposites! They do find their way to each other -- in a way that was not rushed or forced.
What I found different about this book is usually you would see the innocent girl reform the bad boy...but in this book that doesn't happen. I liked that, it threw me for a loop sure but in a good way! In this book the more believable scenario happens -- Once a bad boy always a bad boy. What changes is that Reid Tate has finally found someone he can trust and that is how Livvie gets under Reid's skin.
I love how Elisa builds Livvie and Reid's relationship. Reid helps Livvie see that her current relationship is NOT a good one for her. and Livvie helps Reid see that there are some people in life that you can trust.
Livvie: Sweet, innocent and naïve. She is dealing with the craziness of being in high school, the demands of being on the Diamond girls cheer squad, volunteering to help round out her transcript and of course holds down a job. If that's not enough she's got a JERK for a boyfriend.
But then enters..Reid Tate: Drool worthy bad boy. He's got a really messed up home life and tons of girls that are interested in being with the resident "bad boy".
So Livvie and Reid -- yes absolute opposites! They do find their way to each other -- in a way that was not rushed or forced.
What I found different about this book is usually you would see the innocent girl reform the bad boy...but in this book that doesn't happen. I liked that, it threw me for a loop sure but in a good way! In this book the more believable scenario happens -- Once a bad boy always a bad boy. What changes is that Reid Tate has finally found someone he can trust and that is how Livvie gets under Reid's skin.
I love how Elisa builds Livvie and Reid's relationship. Reid helps Livvie see that her current relationship is NOT a good one for her. and Livvie helps Reid see that there are some people in life that you can trust.
August 24, 2016
You can see more of my reviews at www.bookishlife.com
I was provided a copy of this book for review.
Like Ex-Factor, Unbreakable is not my normal type of read. But, again, it was nice to step out of my comfort zone and experience something new. Unbreakable shares the love story of Livvie and Reid, two completely different people who come together in an unusual set of circumstances. Like Ex-Factor, this book also spends some time focusing on social issues that are affecting lots of young girls. Livvie’s boyfriend J.P. gradually becomes violent and he becomes very unhappy when their relationship doesn’t progress in the way he wants. As a result he becomes very possessive and dangerous. Through all of this, Livvie and Reid find each other and discover some things about each other.
When I finished reading this, I was happy and in such a good mood. This book made me feel happy. I would definitely suggest this book to people who like happy, feel-good reads that leave you wanting to know more about the characters and their story.
I was provided a copy of this book for review.
Like Ex-Factor, Unbreakable is not my normal type of read. But, again, it was nice to step out of my comfort zone and experience something new. Unbreakable shares the love story of Livvie and Reid, two completely different people who come together in an unusual set of circumstances. Like Ex-Factor, this book also spends some time focusing on social issues that are affecting lots of young girls. Livvie’s boyfriend J.P. gradually becomes violent and he becomes very unhappy when their relationship doesn’t progress in the way he wants. As a result he becomes very possessive and dangerous. Through all of this, Livvie and Reid find each other and discover some things about each other.
When I finished reading this, I was happy and in such a good mood. This book made me feel happy. I would definitely suggest this book to people who like happy, feel-good reads that leave you wanting to know more about the characters and their story.
August 3, 2016
A spin-off from characters in Ex-factor, Unbreakable follows Liv through an abusive relationship. Keeping with Elisa Dane fashion she hits on another tough subject, one that every teenage girl needs to be aware of.
Dane went through the stages of abuse, starting with simple control issues all the way to the abuser losing it completely. It’s important that people recognize control as a form of abuse and Dane did a fantastic job portraying this. What I liked most about this book is it showed that appearances can be deceiving. The guy most would write off as bad news was really the good guy who was dealt a crap set of cards in life.
The book was enjoyable and definitely held an important message. This could be read as a standalone and finished in a day.
Dane went through the stages of abuse, starting with simple control issues all the way to the abuser losing it completely. It’s important that people recognize control as a form of abuse and Dane did a fantastic job portraying this. What I liked most about this book is it showed that appearances can be deceiving. The guy most would write off as bad news was really the good guy who was dealt a crap set of cards in life.
The book was enjoyable and definitely held an important message. This could be read as a standalone and finished in a day.
January 11, 2015
Loved this book!
I loved this story as much if not more than the first book! Olivia and Reid's chemistry and charm held me spellbound. As their story unfolded, I totally fell in love with the couple. Their story is absolutely beautiful. I love how Ms Dane is not afraid to tackle difficult subjects in her stories and can also incorporate a team sport into the storyline. People are physically abused every day. Part of the horror is they suffer in silence and even when people are aware they do not offer help. The big lesson is not to be afraid to report abuse you've witnessed or heard. Great read for all ages!
I loved this story as much if not more than the first book! Olivia and Reid's chemistry and charm held me spellbound. As their story unfolded, I totally fell in love with the couple. Their story is absolutely beautiful. I love how Ms Dane is not afraid to tackle difficult subjects in her stories and can also incorporate a team sport into the storyline. People are physically abused every day. Part of the horror is they suffer in silence and even when people are aware they do not offer help. The big lesson is not to be afraid to report abuse you've witnessed or heard. Great read for all ages!
June 10, 2014
I was so happy to find out that there was a second book in this series. I absolutely loved Ex-Factor and Elisa Dane. I loved Livvie in the first book and was so happy to see she got her own book. Livvie is super fun and peppy. I loved that she was there for Reid when he needed her. Reid was so hot. I swooned over them and also raged when other things happened. Another great book in this series. Hoping there are more diamond girls books in the works.
September 15, 2014
This is book two in the series but can be read as a standalone.
Loved that we got to read more about these characters that we met in Ex-Factor.
This is Livvies story and what a story it is. My heart went out to Livvie in parts of this story. Hate J.P. Just wanted to slap him!! Now Reid I so love. Great storyline that just flowed so well.
I must say I enjoyed this book more than book one. This was a real page turner.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series.
Loved that we got to read more about these characters that we met in Ex-Factor.
This is Livvies story and what a story it is. My heart went out to Livvie in parts of this story. Hate J.P. Just wanted to slap him!! Now Reid I so love. Great storyline that just flowed so well.
I must say I enjoyed this book more than book one. This was a real page turner.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series.
March 21, 2015
Loved this!
Only negative... I wanted more cheer and I wanted more after story... Like more of a conclusion after the drama!
So far in this series it feels like everything wraps up nicely. I perfect ending is always a perfect ending if you get what I mean.
Fell in love with the characters though and loved the fact that we got some follow up on previous characters.
Only negative... I wanted more cheer and I wanted more after story... Like more of a conclusion after the drama!
So far in this series it feels like everything wraps up nicely. I perfect ending is always a perfect ending if you get what I mean.
Fell in love with the characters though and loved the fact that we got some follow up on previous characters.
April 17, 2017
4.5 really. A quick, hard to put down read. I think I had picked this one up for a freebie one day. And then I saw that it was part of the Kindle Unlimited Challenge, and while I don't have KU, I decided to at least try to participate since I had that book. It was a pretty good book, I'd like to go back and read book 1 now. This is definitely more of a YA than an NA or Adult romance.
June 23, 2014
First, I would like to thank the author Elisa Dane for giving me this book for an honest review. The storyline is good. The characters are well developed and written. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
February 22, 2015
I love the issues that these books cover, I think every teenage girl should read them for their message. Once I got past the pet names, I was absorbed into this story. A few points in this book had me at the edge of my seat and staying up way to late to read it. I can't wait for the 3rd book!
June 6, 2014
This book was phenomenal! I really enjoyed the characters and plot. Livvie's story broke my heart, and Reid put it back together again! Highly recommend!!!!
September 20, 2014
Great suspenseful story and great characters! Happy ending that tells you just because people have harsh upbringings doesn't mean they turn out the same! hope there is another story!
January 15, 2019
Omg soooooooooooo good!!!!!!! I did enjoy Ex-Factor but I loved Unbreakable so much!!!!!!! Liv & Reid were sooooo cute and great characters!!!!!! 5 stars!! Full review coming soon!
December 21, 2016
Yikes. Definitely a book that deserves using the word "cringe-worthy." I really don't know why I bothered to read it in the first place.
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