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Love, Lucas #1
Love, Lucas
When Oakley Nelson loses her older brother, Lucas, to cancer, she thinks she’ll never recover. Between her parents’ arguing and the battle she’s fighting with depression, she feels nothing inside but a hollow emptiness. When Mom suggests they spend a few months in California with Aunt Jo, Oakley isn’t sure a change of scenery will alter anything, but she’s willing to give it a try.
In California, Oakley discovers a sort of safety and freedom in Aunt Jo’s beach house. Once they’re settled, Mom hands her a notebook full of letters addressed to her—from Lucas. As Oakley reads one each day, she realizes how much he loved her, and each letter challenges her to be better and to continue to enjoy her life. He wants her to move on.
If only it were that easy.
But then a surfer named Carson comes into her life, and Oakley is blindsided. He makes her feel again. As she lets him in, she is surprised by how much she cares for him, and that’s when things get complicated. How can she fall in love and be happy when Lucas never got the chance to do those very same things?
With her brother’s dying words as guidance, Oakley knows she must learn to listen and trust again. But will she have to leave the past behind to find happiness in the future?
In California, Oakley discovers a sort of safety and freedom in Aunt Jo’s beach house. Once they’re settled, Mom hands her a notebook full of letters addressed to her—from Lucas. As Oakley reads one each day, she realizes how much he loved her, and each letter challenges her to be better and to continue to enjoy her life. He wants her to move on.
If only it were that easy.
But then a surfer named Carson comes into her life, and Oakley is blindsided. He makes her feel again. As she lets him in, she is surprised by how much she cares for him, and that’s when things get complicated. How can she fall in love and be happy when Lucas never got the chance to do those very same things?
With her brother’s dying words as guidance, Oakley knows she must learn to listen and trust again. But will she have to leave the past behind to find happiness in the future?
280 pages, Hardcover
First published May 5, 2015
180 people are currently reading
6015 people want to read
About the author
Chantele Sedgwick
6 books372 followersChantele Sedgwick is a YA author, harpist, wife to one and stay-at-home mom to four. She loves happy endings, Kit Kats and judging by her book shelves, buys way too many books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 528 reviews
January 28, 2018
a slow book with a heavy emphasis on character development and I was going to two start it but guys, the ending was so realistic and beautiful I had to raise a star.
also,,,, get yourself a girl who punches a shark to save you from it 👏👏👏
also,,,, get yourself a girl who punches a shark to save you from it 👏👏👏
May 20, 2015
Chantele Sedgwick weaves a beautiful and heartfelt story that is perfect for every YA reader out there. A book that deals with loss and moving on.. and finding out that there are a lot of reasons for you to move forward. A truly heartbreaking but touching read.
Just like what I said from my intro, Oakley is a wonderful main character. She's real in every way possible. For a girl her age, her reactions toward his brother's death is truly understandable. Her feelings was thoroughly described by her that I can't help but feel for her too. She made me tear up a lot of times. I have never experienced death of a loved one (and I don't want to) but the way Oakley tells her feelings and her heartaches, I feel like I'm the one grieving. It really was obvious that the writing is terrific. I also loved the character growth the Oakley went through. It was really necessary and beautifully done.
The romance in here is so sweet. So innocent. Just like what you'd expect from a first love. The love interest is genuine and I really like how he played out a big part on Oakley's healing process. And in him, Oakley finds another reason to move forward.
If there's something I want more from this book is maybe we should've gotten more from his brother. The letters was great but I think the readers will appreciate Oakley and his brothers closeness if we gotten some short glimpses or maybe some flashbacks.
But all in all, Love, Lucas is one of the most genuine book I've ever read. The way Oakley deals with grief is so realistic and so is her feelings. Oakley will stay with you. You'll cry with her, swoon with her and cry again with her, but this time... with happiness. Chantele Sedgwick is a brilliant writer! Her words lingers in.... and sinks in you. I cannot wait for more.
And lastly, I don't even know if this is relevant but I still want to put it here. I saw a quote before I wrote my review of Love, Lucas and it says ‘What's lost is painful but what's left is powerful' I don't even know if the quote talks about a person but I still remembered Oakley when I read this. For people who have lost someone... hurting is good. But it'll pass. The first step to lessen the pain? Look around. Beautiful people, places, and a future awaits you.
Just like what I said from my intro, Oakley is a wonderful main character. She's real in every way possible. For a girl her age, her reactions toward his brother's death is truly understandable. Her feelings was thoroughly described by her that I can't help but feel for her too. She made me tear up a lot of times. I have never experienced death of a loved one (and I don't want to) but the way Oakley tells her feelings and her heartaches, I feel like I'm the one grieving. It really was obvious that the writing is terrific. I also loved the character growth the Oakley went through. It was really necessary and beautifully done.
The romance in here is so sweet. So innocent. Just like what you'd expect from a first love. The love interest is genuine and I really like how he played out a big part on Oakley's healing process. And in him, Oakley finds another reason to move forward.
If there's something I want more from this book is maybe we should've gotten more from his brother. The letters was great but I think the readers will appreciate Oakley and his brothers closeness if we gotten some short glimpses or maybe some flashbacks.
But all in all, Love, Lucas is one of the most genuine book I've ever read. The way Oakley deals with grief is so realistic and so is her feelings. Oakley will stay with you. You'll cry with her, swoon with her and cry again with her, but this time... with happiness. Chantele Sedgwick is a brilliant writer! Her words lingers in.... and sinks in you. I cannot wait for more.
And lastly, I don't even know if this is relevant but I still want to put it here. I saw a quote before I wrote my review of Love, Lucas and it says ‘What's lost is painful but what's left is powerful' I don't even know if the quote talks about a person but I still remembered Oakley when I read this. For people who have lost someone... hurting is good. But it'll pass. The first step to lessen the pain? Look around. Beautiful people, places, and a future awaits you.
January 25, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Skyhorse Publishing and Edelweiss.)
“Is it possible to find happiness when it feels like you’ve lost not only yourself, but everyone you love?”
This was an okay story, but it just didn’t hold my attention.
I felt sorry for Oakley, and she was obviously going through a difficult time after her brother’s death. I thought her mother was being a bit harsh on her at times, and it did seem like everyone was expecting her to move on a bit too quickly.
“Honey, you should go. Go have fun. I’m worried about you. Ever since Lucas…” Her voice squeaks as she says his name. She clears her throat and takes a shaky breath. “Ever since we lost Lucas, you’ve built a wall around yourself. Maybe if you make some friends, you could be yourself again.”
The storyline in this was okay, but it felt like every other story I’ve read where a loved one has died. The things in Lucas’ letters were sentimental, but there wasn’t really anything new, and his words didn’t move me. I just didn’t really feel anything for him, and I didn’t feel the grief from Oakley either.
“Don’t let the fear of what other people may think of you stop you from pursuing the thing that might make you great.”
The only interesting bit of the story didn’t happen until the 80% mark, and unfortunately that didn’t even last long.
There was romance, but I wasn’t really interested in that either.
The ending to this was okay, but other than the event at 80%, I didn’t really enjoy this story.
6 out of 10.
“Is it possible to find happiness when it feels like you’ve lost not only yourself, but everyone you love?”
This was an okay story, but it just didn’t hold my attention.
I felt sorry for Oakley, and she was obviously going through a difficult time after her brother’s death. I thought her mother was being a bit harsh on her at times, and it did seem like everyone was expecting her to move on a bit too quickly.
“Honey, you should go. Go have fun. I’m worried about you. Ever since Lucas…” Her voice squeaks as she says his name. She clears her throat and takes a shaky breath. “Ever since we lost Lucas, you’ve built a wall around yourself. Maybe if you make some friends, you could be yourself again.”
The storyline in this was okay, but it felt like every other story I’ve read where a loved one has died. The things in Lucas’ letters were sentimental, but there wasn’t really anything new, and his words didn’t move me. I just didn’t really feel anything for him, and I didn’t feel the grief from Oakley either.
“Don’t let the fear of what other people may think of you stop you from pursuing the thing that might make you great.”
The only interesting bit of the story didn’t happen until the 80% mark, and unfortunately that didn’t even last long.
There was romance, but I wasn’t really interested in that either.
The ending to this was okay, but other than the event at 80%, I didn’t really enjoy this story.
6 out of 10.
October 6, 2015
This book has been nominated for a 2015 Swoony Award, to vote click here.
I started following Chantele’s reading blog a long time ago, it was actually one of the first ones I found and always loved her reviews. We have very similar taste in books. So, I was excited when her books started being published. I enjoyed her first series and was looking forward to this one. I’ve actually been stalking her Pinterest board for Love, Lucas for awhile now, it’s full of great pictures (in fact, the one below I found on that board) and so when I finally sat down to read this one I was really looking forward to it.
Oakley is heartbroken over the death of her older brother and best friend, Lucas. She’s having a hard time coming to terms and her mom decides a trip to visit Aunt Jo in California would be good for them. To be honest, I don’t typically read sad books, but I trusted Chantele and even though this has its sad parts, it was really well done. Oakley grows a lot as a character and learns to live after suffering a great loss. When she arrives in California, she never expects to meet cute neighbor Carson.
I liked Oakley and felt bad for all that she was going through. I loved Carson, such a sweet and caring guy. I loved them together and even though there is a lot of heavy stuff going on, their romance was sweet and a nice part of the story. Overall, it was a good read, I read it in one sitting. I wanted to know what would happen next and see Oakley heal. I enjoyed the setting and all the surfing and fun dates they went on. I thought it was well written and it’s one I’d easily recommend to my friends.
Content
Romance: Squeaky clean
Language: None
Violence: None-mild
Other: Mild talk of underage drinking (main characters done)
Religious: None
Source: Received review copy in exchange for honest review.
I started following Chantele’s reading blog a long time ago, it was actually one of the first ones I found and always loved her reviews. We have very similar taste in books. So, I was excited when her books started being published. I enjoyed her first series and was looking forward to this one. I’ve actually been stalking her Pinterest board for Love, Lucas for awhile now, it’s full of great pictures (in fact, the one below I found on that board) and so when I finally sat down to read this one I was really looking forward to it.
Oakley is heartbroken over the death of her older brother and best friend, Lucas. She’s having a hard time coming to terms and her mom decides a trip to visit Aunt Jo in California would be good for them. To be honest, I don’t typically read sad books, but I trusted Chantele and even though this has its sad parts, it was really well done. Oakley grows a lot as a character and learns to live after suffering a great loss. When she arrives in California, she never expects to meet cute neighbor Carson.
I liked Oakley and felt bad for all that she was going through. I loved Carson, such a sweet and caring guy. I loved them together and even though there is a lot of heavy stuff going on, their romance was sweet and a nice part of the story. Overall, it was a good read, I read it in one sitting. I wanted to know what would happen next and see Oakley heal. I enjoyed the setting and all the surfing and fun dates they went on. I thought it was well written and it’s one I’d easily recommend to my friends.
Content
Romance: Squeaky clean
Language: None
Violence: None-mild
Other: Mild talk of underage drinking (main characters done)
Religious: None
Source: Received review copy in exchange for honest review.
January 22, 2016
This and other reviews can be found on The Psychotic Nerd
I received an ecopy of this book via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
MY THOUGHTS
This was such a beautiful book and it brought tears in my eyes, but it wasn't just sad tears, there were tears of happiness in there as well.
Oakley's brother, Lucas, just passed away from cancer. Lucas wasn't just Oakley's brother, but her best friend as well, so the loss of him is hurting her and she doesn't know how she will ever get over it or if she ever should. Her mother decides that she and Oakley should go to California and live for Aunt Jo for awhile. While there, Oakley finds comfort from a notebook full of letters Lucas wrote to Oakley during his last days, but she finds other surprising in California. She ends up befriending a surfer named Carson who helps her heal, but does she deserve happiness? When Lucas can't anymore? And how can she get close to someone again, when she's eventually going to leave?
There are numerous books out there focusing on grief, but death is something that happens in the real world all too often and the grief that comes with it is very raw. This book features this so realistically. Honestly, this book is entirely about Oakley trying to live her own life again after Lucas's death, which is much harder than it sounds. She doesn't want to forget Lucas and she doesn't feel like she could live happily anymore. This was dealt with so well and, honestly, even I almost cried while reading this book (I was at work, so I couldn't full-out cry without raising a few questions).
The character development was spot-on. Oakley grows so much throughout this book. She was fearful of being happy, but she was also very fearful of growing close to anyone. This causes her to make some dumb decisions throughout this book regarding relationships. She closes herself off and distances herself from not only perspective friends, but her family. She does eventually grow to realize what she's doing wrong and that Lucas would want her to be happy, but it's such a tragically beautiful growth.
There is a romance in this book, but it's very slow and realistic. Carson, our love interest, is such a great guy and he's very sweet. He understands Oakley and does his best to help her. He honestly does care about her, something that takes Oakley awhile to realize. Also, the romance is not the bigger picture in this book, this book is entirely about Oakley and Lucas which makes the book even better.
IN CONCLUSION
This was a very beautiful book about grief. This book did remind me very much of Sarah Dessen's style, with her coming of age tales and very raw books, but Chantele Sedgwick obviously has her own voice and she is a wonderful writer. I very much look forward to reading anything else she will write in the future!
I received an ecopy of this book via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
MY THOUGHTS
This was such a beautiful book and it brought tears in my eyes, but it wasn't just sad tears, there were tears of happiness in there as well.
Oakley's brother, Lucas, just passed away from cancer. Lucas wasn't just Oakley's brother, but her best friend as well, so the loss of him is hurting her and she doesn't know how she will ever get over it or if she ever should. Her mother decides that she and Oakley should go to California and live for Aunt Jo for awhile. While there, Oakley finds comfort from a notebook full of letters Lucas wrote to Oakley during his last days, but she finds other surprising in California. She ends up befriending a surfer named Carson who helps her heal, but does she deserve happiness? When Lucas can't anymore? And how can she get close to someone again, when she's eventually going to leave?
There are numerous books out there focusing on grief, but death is something that happens in the real world all too often and the grief that comes with it is very raw. This book features this so realistically. Honestly, this book is entirely about Oakley trying to live her own life again after Lucas's death, which is much harder than it sounds. She doesn't want to forget Lucas and she doesn't feel like she could live happily anymore. This was dealt with so well and, honestly, even I almost cried while reading this book (I was at work, so I couldn't full-out cry without raising a few questions).
The character development was spot-on. Oakley grows so much throughout this book. She was fearful of being happy, but she was also very fearful of growing close to anyone. This causes her to make some dumb decisions throughout this book regarding relationships. She closes herself off and distances herself from not only perspective friends, but her family. She does eventually grow to realize what she's doing wrong and that Lucas would want her to be happy, but it's such a tragically beautiful growth.
There is a romance in this book, but it's very slow and realistic. Carson, our love interest, is such a great guy and he's very sweet. He understands Oakley and does his best to help her. He honestly does care about her, something that takes Oakley awhile to realize. Also, the romance is not the bigger picture in this book, this book is entirely about Oakley and Lucas which makes the book even better.
IN CONCLUSION
This was a very beautiful book about grief. This book did remind me very much of Sarah Dessen's style, with her coming of age tales and very raw books, but Chantele Sedgwick obviously has her own voice and she is a wonderful writer. I very much look forward to reading anything else she will write in the future!
April 27, 2015
“Ever since we lost Lucas, you’ve built a wall around yourself. Maybe if you make some friends, you could be yourself again.”
A unique story, Love, Lucas begins with Oakley Nelson, snapping under the pressure of having to deal with her older brother—Lucas’s death. She tries her best to forget and move on but it seems like everything reminds her of Lucas, and when she gets a journal full of letters addressed to her, written by Lucas himself, she decides to try harder.
And there begins her journey of trying to live the life her brother could have led.
As far as protagonists go, it was easy to connect with Oakley. She also came across as a sensitive, kind girl who just had too much crap to deal with all at once. When her mom and her move to her Aunt Jo’s place for the summer, she meets surfer extraordinaire Carson, and suddenly it seems as if moving on after the death of her brother might be possible after all.
Carson was a cute, typical boy-next-door kind of a guy with a huuuuuge crush on Oakley. It was cute actually, how they both liked each other and while there was an element of instalove (at least from Carson's side), I’m glad they actually got the time to know each other before they were declaring their love to each other :)
The journal was, surprisingly, my biggest issue with the book. If I’m not mistaken, Lucas was 18 or 19 when he died. But the way the journal seemed to be written actually gave me a feeling of much younger guy writing it. Maybe somebody in his early teens—which was a complete bummer because I quite appreciated the message that each letter contained.
“Is it possible to find happiness when it feels like you’ve lost not only yourself, but everyone you love?”
The romance in the book played quite a huge role which was okay because at not one point did I feel like the grief Oakley went through with her brother’s death was being set aside. Oakley definitely had a lot of healing to do but she also re-learned how to live happily, all thanks to Carson. I guess what I’m trying to say is that carson was important to the story not only from the romance point of view but also because he was the chief reason Oakely was able to function properly without breaking down.
"My life isn't perfect. It never will be. But I know I'm going to be okay. Trials make us stronger. Little by little. We just have to keep going and not give up hope. Just like Lucas said. As long as I have hope, everything will work out."
*I was provided a free ecopy of this book in exchange of an honest review. This did not in any way, however, influence the content of this review.*
January 25, 2015
(I received a copy from Edelweiss, In exchange for an honest review.)
Oakley was an okay character, and I felt sorry for her, as losing someone close to you is awful. Her romance with Carson was quite sweet, and I was hoping things would work out between them.
This wasn't a bad read, but I'm glad it was short, as I felt quite bored at parts. Lucas's letters were nice to read to start with, but they did end up getting a bit repetitive, so they started to bore me too.
Overall, Alright read, but glad it was short.
Oakley was an okay character, and I felt sorry for her, as losing someone close to you is awful. Her romance with Carson was quite sweet, and I was hoping things would work out between them.
This wasn't a bad read, but I'm glad it was short, as I felt quite bored at parts. Lucas's letters were nice to read to start with, but they did end up getting a bit repetitive, so they started to bore me too.
Overall, Alright read, but glad it was short.
Read
October 22, 2015 DNF @ 10%
I hate to do this, really. But, really. The writing was simple and everything seemed was so predictable. Oakley's brother tragically dies. Obviously, the family is devastated. Her mother and father start arguing instantly after the funeral ends. Instant cliché, but I guess this does happen in real-time, so. Parents are on-road to divorce and Oakley and her mother head to her aunt's home. A beach town.
Oakley and her mother's reactions are perfectly on-point, but please. I would've preferred a bit of personality. They were so bland. And predictable, which I already said. Voices cracked here and there, but everyone remained stone-stiff.
Also, there's romance. But I didn't get too far to pursue it.
Not for me, unfortunately.
I hate to do this, really. But, really. The writing was simple and everything seemed was so predictable. Oakley's brother tragically dies. Obviously, the family is devastated. Her mother and father start arguing instantly after the funeral ends. Instant cliché, but I guess this does happen in real-time, so. Parents are on-road to divorce and Oakley and her mother head to her aunt's home. A beach town.
Oakley and her mother's reactions are perfectly on-point, but please. I would've preferred a bit of personality. They were so bland. And predictable, which I already said. Voices cracked here and there, but everyone remained stone-stiff.
Also, there's romance. But I didn't get too far to pursue it.
Not for me, unfortunately.
May 21, 2016
I really enjoyed this book and know it will be very popular with my middle school girls. It's about the real life issues that come with the death of a close family member, and sadly many of us can relate to these feelings. The love story is exciting and awesome because the characters in this book are so likable.
June 6, 2015
oh man this book made me cry a little it had so many wonderful messages it had a huge twist at the end i did not see coming AT ALL!! I was a little frustrated with Oakley at times but this was a nice summer read with a lot of substance i thoroughly enjoyed this and would recommend it:)
January 4, 2023
What in the Wattpad was this
March 20, 2019
A very great page turner I loved it so much i wish it wouldn't have ended!
June 22, 2018
First things first: whenever I read the name Carson, instead of picturing a young surfer, I kept picturing this guy (I can't be the only one, come on):
This was a pretty predictable book, and I couldn't help but roll my eyes when the letters from Lucas matched what was going on in Oakley's life. The ending, though, that was nerve-wracking.
This was a pretty predictable book, and I couldn't help but roll my eyes when the letters from Lucas matched what was going on in Oakley's life. The ending, though, that was nerve-wracking.
December 25, 2016
After the death of her brother, Lucas, Oakley is heartbroken. He lost his battle against cancer. Lucas was Oakley's best friend and she misses him very much. To make moving on easier for his sister Lucas has left Oakley a notebook filled with letters. Oakley needs something to help her get through the days. She hasn't only lost the person she loved the most in the whole world, she's also moved in with her aunt Jo until the summer. Her mother wanted a change of scenery and they left Oakley's father behind. Living with Jo brings Oakley a little bit of peace. She's kind and has a fascinating profession that she shares with her niece.
When Oakley meets Jo's neigbor Carson she immediately feels like she's made a new friend and she thinks she's safe with him. He's taking the time to get to know her, he's polite, he's kind and he's willing to teach her things. Oakley has the idea she betrays her brother when she's having fun so soon after his death, but Lucas keeps challenging her in his letters. With his help she gives Carson a chance. Will her time at the beach heal the biggest cracks in Oakley's heart?
Love, Lucas is a beautiful heartbreaking story. Oakley has lost so much, but after the death of her beloved brother life isn't done making things difficult for her. She has to keep fighting to be all right. Living with her aunt brings a bit of normalcy back into Oakley's life. After graduating early and spending as much time as she could at the hospital she became isolated. She needs friends and Carson is a sweetheart. He's always there for Oakley and he never gives up on her. They have a great connection and he's exactly what Oakley needs. I loved reading about this special bond.
Chantele Sedgwick writes about difficult topics in an empathic and honest way. She guides her reader through many layers of emotions by giving them a story filled with love, hope and wisdom. Love, Lucas is impressive and I often had tears in my eyes while I was reading the letters Lucas wrote for Oakley. Chantele Sedgwick has captured exactly what it feels like to be ill and the wisdom that usually comes with it. Lucas is absolutely wonderful and I felt sad that he'd never have the chance to become an adult. I loved the way he describes his own journey and his plans and hopes for his sister's future. Oakley becomes stronger because of his advice. Lucas makes her see her flaws and he encourages her to correct her mistakes in a heartwarming, sensitive way.
Love, Lucas has a surprising ending. I didn't expect such a big and life-changing finale. I really liked it and I'm always happy when something astonishes me. It's a fantastic way to conclude an incredible story. Everything about Love, Lucas is exactly as it should be. The story is moving and it has a good balance between grief and promise. I highly recommend this book, it's amazing in many different ways.
When Oakley meets Jo's neigbor Carson she immediately feels like she's made a new friend and she thinks she's safe with him. He's taking the time to get to know her, he's polite, he's kind and he's willing to teach her things. Oakley has the idea she betrays her brother when she's having fun so soon after his death, but Lucas keeps challenging her in his letters. With his help she gives Carson a chance. Will her time at the beach heal the biggest cracks in Oakley's heart?
Love, Lucas is a beautiful heartbreaking story. Oakley has lost so much, but after the death of her beloved brother life isn't done making things difficult for her. She has to keep fighting to be all right. Living with her aunt brings a bit of normalcy back into Oakley's life. After graduating early and spending as much time as she could at the hospital she became isolated. She needs friends and Carson is a sweetheart. He's always there for Oakley and he never gives up on her. They have a great connection and he's exactly what Oakley needs. I loved reading about this special bond.
Chantele Sedgwick writes about difficult topics in an empathic and honest way. She guides her reader through many layers of emotions by giving them a story filled with love, hope and wisdom. Love, Lucas is impressive and I often had tears in my eyes while I was reading the letters Lucas wrote for Oakley. Chantele Sedgwick has captured exactly what it feels like to be ill and the wisdom that usually comes with it. Lucas is absolutely wonderful and I felt sad that he'd never have the chance to become an adult. I loved the way he describes his own journey and his plans and hopes for his sister's future. Oakley becomes stronger because of his advice. Lucas makes her see her flaws and he encourages her to correct her mistakes in a heartwarming, sensitive way.
Love, Lucas has a surprising ending. I didn't expect such a big and life-changing finale. I really liked it and I'm always happy when something astonishes me. It's a fantastic way to conclude an incredible story. Everything about Love, Lucas is exactly as it should be. The story is moving and it has a good balance between grief and promise. I highly recommend this book, it's amazing in many different ways.
June 11, 2015
Средняя книга, на троечку по пятибалльной шкале. В ней нет пошлятины, в ней нет никаких неимоверных интриг, заговоров и прочей дребедени которой в последнее время пестрят все остальные романы. Она милая, спокойная, ее легко читать, и иногда пробивает на слезы.
Персонажи мне как-то не очень запомнились, но больше всех выделился Лукас, хотя он там только в письмах и фигурирует. Ради этих писем и стоит читать эту книгу. Они того стоят. А история Окли и ее семьи, это пример того, как нужно искать силы для продолжения существования после потери члена семьи. Кстати, Окли та еще паникерша. Она уж слишком много думает и накручивает себя. Карсон в принципе понравился, но чего-то в нем мне не хватило.
И есть здесь один сомнительный фрагмент: акула. Ну нет, серьезно. Я с большим скептицизмом читала конец книги, по большей части держась на мысли что хочу дочитать письма от Лукаса. Тут автор перемудрила.
Итог: 5 из 10
Персонажи мне как-то не очень запомнились, но больше всех выделился Лукас, хотя он там только в письмах и фигурирует. Ради этих писем и стоит читать эту книгу. Они того стоят. А история Окли и ее семьи, это пример того, как нужно искать силы для продолжения существования после потери члена семьи. Кстати, Окли та еще паникерша. Она уж слишком много думает и накручивает себя. Карсон в принципе понравился, но чего-то в нем мне не хватило.
И есть здесь один сомнительный фрагмент: акула. Ну нет, серьезно. Я с большим скептицизмом читала конец книги, по большей части держась на мысли что хочу дочитать письма от Лукаса. Тут автор перемудрила.
Итог: 5 из 10
August 16, 2019
5/5⭐️
This was exactly the book I needed to read right now to get out of my slump. I feel like it handled grief in a way that would be more inspiring to the reader than depressing. The book dealt with a lot of dark subjects without making the story depressing, and it really enjoyed that. I don’t know how accurately it portrayed losing a sibling, as I thankfully have never gone through that, but I feel that if you lost someone you loved it would bring a lot of hope and inspire you to get out there and try to move on and be happy for your loved one.
This book made me feel so many emotions. One moment I’d be teary-eyed and the next I’d be swooning over the main ship in this book. I don’t know about you, but to me that’s a great book. I’d highly recommend giving this one a read
This was exactly the book I needed to read right now to get out of my slump. I feel like it handled grief in a way that would be more inspiring to the reader than depressing. The book dealt with a lot of dark subjects without making the story depressing, and it really enjoyed that. I don’t know how accurately it portrayed losing a sibling, as I thankfully have never gone through that, but I feel that if you lost someone you loved it would bring a lot of hope and inspire you to get out there and try to move on and be happy for your loved one.
This book made me feel so many emotions. One moment I’d be teary-eyed and the next I’d be swooning over the main ship in this book. I don’t know about you, but to me that’s a great book. I’d highly recommend giving this one a read
Read
May 6, 2015DNF - I quietly read one chapter, but it just didn't appeal to me. I'm over cancer YA books.
June 26, 2021
I actually really love this book! It’s sweet but also is uplifting.
Read
January 16, 2022I honestly don't remember much... so I won't rate for now.
June 23, 2022
This one was so sad, but also so...warm and nice.
February 6, 2015
Big thanks to Sky Pony Press and Edelweiss for an ARC copy for review.
This was a very genuine and touching novel. A story about young girl named Oakley, who is grieving from the recent loss of her older brother, Lucas from cancer. There is the devastation, heartbreak, and loneliness when losing a loved one, but this also shows the hope and healing that comes from the most unlikely of places. I thought Chantele did a wonderful job handling such a sensitive topic.
I adored Oakley's character. She was kind and shy, but strong. She really took care of her self emotionally when her parents were so distant and never really there throughout the story. I just wanted to hug her and take away her sadness.
This is were Carson comes in. He really was a saving grace for Oakley when it came to her healing process. His gentle and caring nature towards her was just so sweet. Such a gentleman. The interactions between Carson and Oakley were wonderful to watch. Nothing like falling in love for the first time.
I shake my head and smile. I'm ridiculous. "I think I'm in love with you." He's staring at me, and his lips part slightly.
"I had to tell you. I don't want to regret not telling you."
His face softens and he breaks into a grin. "I don't think, I know" he says. " since you fell off that first wave and went right back in, even after you were slammed into the beach I knew." ~ Oakley and Carson
What really made tears come to my eyes was Lucas's notebook that held letters that he had written to Oakley while in hospital. It's in this notebook that I saw the special bond and the strong love between Oakley and Lucas. I have brother that I'm close to and it makes me cry thinking about it. Lucas's letters were also where Oakley finds inspiration to move on. The ending, though a little bittersweet for me wrapped up nicely.
"My life isn't perfect. It never will be. But I know I'm going to be okay. Trials make us stronger. Little by little. We just have to keep going and not give up hope. Just like Lucas said. As long as I have hope, everything will work out." ~ Oakley
This was a very genuine and touching novel. A story about young girl named Oakley, who is grieving from the recent loss of her older brother, Lucas from cancer. There is the devastation, heartbreak, and loneliness when losing a loved one, but this also shows the hope and healing that comes from the most unlikely of places. I thought Chantele did a wonderful job handling such a sensitive topic.
I adored Oakley's character. She was kind and shy, but strong. She really took care of her self emotionally when her parents were so distant and never really there throughout the story. I just wanted to hug her and take away her sadness.
This is were Carson comes in. He really was a saving grace for Oakley when it came to her healing process. His gentle and caring nature towards her was just so sweet. Such a gentleman. The interactions between Carson and Oakley were wonderful to watch. Nothing like falling in love for the first time.
I shake my head and smile. I'm ridiculous. "I think I'm in love with you." He's staring at me, and his lips part slightly.
"I had to tell you. I don't want to regret not telling you."
His face softens and he breaks into a grin. "I don't think, I know" he says. " since you fell off that first wave and went right back in, even after you were slammed into the beach I knew." ~ Oakley and Carson
What really made tears come to my eyes was Lucas's notebook that held letters that he had written to Oakley while in hospital. It's in this notebook that I saw the special bond and the strong love between Oakley and Lucas. I have brother that I'm close to and it makes me cry thinking about it. Lucas's letters were also where Oakley finds inspiration to move on. The ending, though a little bittersweet for me wrapped up nicely.
"My life isn't perfect. It never will be. But I know I'm going to be okay. Trials make us stronger. Little by little. We just have to keep going and not give up hope. Just like Lucas said. As long as I have hope, everything will work out." ~ Oakley
April 30, 2015
I'm so happy to be a part of this tour for Love, Lucas. When I signed on for this tour I was really hoping to love this book. It sounded like it had emotional potential and one thing I love when I read books is to be sucked in emotionally.
Oakley's brother has just passed away from cancer. She is devastated, hurting and feeling so alone. Her parents are struggling separately and together and Oakley is basically left to work through all these feelings on her own. It's just heart wrenching.
I did love the emotional connection I felt to Oakley. I was caught up and invested in this book the whole way through. It was sad and hopeful at the same time. I will admit to shedding a few tears throughout this book. It was really good. Oakley is on an emotional journey, trying to heal and find a way back to herself and I went on the journey with her.
Carson is all things fantastic. He is sweet and charming and thoughtful. He is so kind to Oakley and looks past the emotional turmoil and anger to see the real her. Yeah, he is a good book boyfriend. :)
Oakley's brother has just passed away from cancer. She is devastated, hurting and feeling so alone. Her parents are struggling separately and together and Oakley is basically left to work through all these feelings on her own. It's just heart wrenching.
I did love the emotional connection I felt to Oakley. I was caught up and invested in this book the whole way through. It was sad and hopeful at the same time. I will admit to shedding a few tears throughout this book. It was really good. Oakley is on an emotional journey, trying to heal and find a way back to herself and I went on the journey with her.
Carson is all things fantastic. He is sweet and charming and thoughtful. He is so kind to Oakley and looks past the emotional turmoil and anger to see the real her. Yeah, he is a good book boyfriend. :)
October 4, 2018
This book is one of my favorite books of all time. It was so beautifully written and I cried many times. Like, I literally wanted to sob each time I read one of Lucas's letters. The brother and sister relationship is such a beautiful thing. You can feel Oakley's pain and as a reader you sympathize with her. The story shows that you can find hope and love within grief and loss. I believe it's one of those stories that stays with you even after you've finished the last page. It's truly an emotional story.
January 16, 2015
A deeply moving tale of unimaginable loss and the redemptive power of love. Sedgwick masterfully delves into the painful details of losing a loved one, breaking your heart even as her beautiful words stitch you back together. Romance and friendship, true growth and authentic healing, this story blew me away. It takes a special book to bring tears to my eyes and make me swoon...LOVE, LUCAS? Yeah, this book is special.
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August 20, 2017Surfing, sun and romance makes this a perfect summer read. But the story is also one of loss and hope and definitely pulls on the heartstrings. Oakley and Lucas's bond was touching and it was clear how close they were. The letters were inspiring and a great addition to the book. I enjoyed reading them and seeing how they'd impact Oakley's choices. Really enjoyable story with a romance to root for and a twist I didn't see coming.
September 12, 2022
4.5 I read this book forever ago, so I don’t really remember much to put in this review, but I do have a few comments. Before I read this book, I read Love and Gelato which basically has the exact same plot of Love, Lucas. I fell in love with Love and Gelato, so I immediately looked for another book similar to it, and I stumbled across this gem and fell in love with it as well. If you’re looking for a cute, fun, summer read, this book is perfect for you.
February 4, 2017
This novel is one of the best I have ever read. Chantele Sedgwick does a marvelous job making it lifelike, making you feel and react to situations as if you were there. It is a very emotional book, but has humorous sections to balance it out. Many valuable life lessons are provided through letters written by the protagonist's deceased brother. I have a new favorite book!
January 19, 2024
Okay okay, adult Jessica probably wouldnt give 4 stars (probably more of a 3) but tween/teen Jessica would and I thought it was only fair since it’s a YA novel. Cute read, even had a surprise I hadn’t expected.
August 22, 2015
3,5 stars
December 2, 2018
Parts of this book were pretty cheesy in my opinion, but it also was maybe a bit therapeutic -- or it could be for young people who have suffered loss and are trying to get through it. The book still made me cry, but the story was a little too far beyond believable. It was an ok book, and one I'd recommend to my middle school students.
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