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Burnouts #1
Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks: a love story
One party girl with a secret older boyfriend…
One geeky guy with a girlfriend with a purity pledge…
One afternoon that brings them together…
On her sixteenth birthday Carrie Gould has no one to celebrate with. Her best friend’s grounded (again), her mother’s throwing a tantrum (again), and her dad’s not around (ever). There’s no one to help her eat the cake she made for herself, or is there…
He always has to dribble three times before he shoots the basketball, always. Ben may be a total OCD geek, but he lives next door, he’s really tall, and he’s usually hungry. So what’s the worst that could happen if she invites him over? One afternoon won’t change everything…
One day, two opposites, the start of something extraordinary.
(This book was originally published as Burnouts, Geeks & Jesus Freaks: a love story in February, 2014)
One geeky guy with a girlfriend with a purity pledge…
One afternoon that brings them together…
On her sixteenth birthday Carrie Gould has no one to celebrate with. Her best friend’s grounded (again), her mother’s throwing a tantrum (again), and her dad’s not around (ever). There’s no one to help her eat the cake she made for herself, or is there…
He always has to dribble three times before he shoots the basketball, always. Ben may be a total OCD geek, but he lives next door, he’s really tall, and he’s usually hungry. So what’s the worst that could happen if she invites him over? One afternoon won’t change everything…
One day, two opposites, the start of something extraordinary.
(This book was originally published as Burnouts, Geeks & Jesus Freaks: a love story in February, 2014)
270 pages, Paperback
First published February 24, 2014
15 people are currently reading
1072 people want to read
About the author
Karen Gordon
9 books146 followersKaren Gordon is an indie author who loves supporting strong and sexy women in fiction and in real life.
Born and raised in St. Charles, Missouri, she found her love of extraordinary stories about ordinary places by finding excitement in mundane suburbia. Although she currently writes romance and chick lit, you never know what she might do next. (You'll never find a woman-hating, bad-boy hero though.)
She currently lives with the loves of her life, three very cool geeky men and one perfect puppy, just outside of Memphis, TN.
Born and raised in St. Charles, Missouri, she found her love of extraordinary stories about ordinary places by finding excitement in mundane suburbia. Although she currently writes romance and chick lit, you never know what she might do next. (You'll never find a woman-hating, bad-boy hero though.)
She currently lives with the loves of her life, three very cool geeky men and one perfect puppy, just outside of Memphis, TN.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 16, 2016
3.5* I'm really having a hard time with this one, I have a lot of mixed feelings about it.
The first half of the book or so deals with some pretty typical teenage going-ons...friends, cliques, dating, drinking, boyfriend drama. Carrie and Ben are both dating other people, but are starting to realize they both have deeper feelings for the other, more than just friendship.
These 2 were sweet together, and I really adored Ben.
There's an interesting cast of characters that we get to know, many we may recognize from our own highschool days.
About 3/4 in things start to change, and with it my feelings towards the book.
I was surprised, really, that I became as invested in this book as I did. It started as a pretty light, easy read, but became something more as the book progressed and we watched the characters grow. I just wish things had been a bit different for that stretch of the book. I'm glad things worked out the way they did, but that section of the story really affected the whole book for me.
***I received a copy of this book in exhange for an honest review.***
The first half of the book or so deals with some pretty typical teenage going-ons...friends, cliques, dating, drinking, boyfriend drama. Carrie and Ben are both dating other people, but are starting to realize they both have deeper feelings for the other, more than just friendship.
These 2 were sweet together, and I really adored Ben.
There's an interesting cast of characters that we get to know, many we may recognize from our own highschool days.
About 3/4 in things start to change, and with it my feelings towards the book.
I was surprised, really, that I became as invested in this book as I did. It started as a pretty light, easy read, but became something more as the book progressed and we watched the characters grow. I just wish things had been a bit different for that stretch of the book. I'm glad things worked out the way they did, but that section of the story really affected the whole book for me.
***I received a copy of this book in exhange for an honest review.***
August 30, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review - just had to throw that in there before I gush about how much I loved this novel.
I mean, the amount of love I have for this piece of literature is so great, you'd think I was BFFs with the author.
But had I heard of the author before? Nope. Had I even heard of the book before? That would also be a no. Honestly, I took a chance on the book, because the title was catchy and sounded promising.
Boy, am I glad the title drew me in. This book is the kind of book that you race to finish, only to be hit with a ridiculous book-hangover afterwards.
The writing style was catchy, the characters were lovable, and the storyline was infused with such emotion that you couldn't help but smile ear-to-ear during the happy parts, and clench your fists together at the not-so- happy parts.
I've read a few reviews that said the ending felt rushed - that was not the case for me. I felt as though the timing fell perfectly in sync with the plot, and I wouldn't have it any other way ...
... Except I'd like a sequel. Which is apparently happening, and I couldn't be more excited.
Thank you, Karen Gordon. What a fantastic gem of a book that you've published!!
I mean, the amount of love I have for this piece of literature is so great, you'd think I was BFFs with the author.
But had I heard of the author before? Nope. Had I even heard of the book before? That would also be a no. Honestly, I took a chance on the book, because the title was catchy and sounded promising.
Boy, am I glad the title drew me in. This book is the kind of book that you race to finish, only to be hit with a ridiculous book-hangover afterwards.
The writing style was catchy, the characters were lovable, and the storyline was infused with such emotion that you couldn't help but smile ear-to-ear during the happy parts, and clench your fists together at the not-so- happy parts.
I've read a few reviews that said the ending felt rushed - that was not the case for me. I felt as though the timing fell perfectly in sync with the plot, and I wouldn't have it any other way ...
... Except I'd like a sequel. Which is apparently happening, and I couldn't be more excited.
Thank you, Karen Gordon. What a fantastic gem of a book that you've published!!
September 3, 2014
*received copy from author for honest review*
I loved this story, it was my high school experience but better! I laughed, a lot, and cried a a few times, the writing was very well done, I loved the characters, the story line was sweet, romantic, sad, nostalgic, and just newly refreshing. The detail was amazing, I feel like Karen Gordon did a wonderful job on this book. The pace was great, then it went kind of fast when I wished it would slow down a bit but the want to read a second book was there for me, so very well done!
Carrie was perfect, she was the perfect mix of bad girl with a good girl inside. She was independent, but self conscious about the little things, she is loving and loyal to the people she's cares about and respectful, even to the people that don't always deserve it. Ben is the boy next door, all american, wholesome, caring and thoughtful. The two butt heads, but ultimately they were best friends destined to fall in love. MG is the carefree, have fun, consequences be damned, party girl. She loves Carrie enough to know when to push her a bit but also when to pull back and let things play out. Steve is one I wish to know more about (second book maybe?), he is funny sweet and desperately in love with MG.
Ultimately this was a great read about love and true friendship conquering all, through years, heartache, frights, differences, and distance. I loved it and can't wait to see what happens next. Great job Karen Gordon, can't wait to read more from you in the future.
I loved this story, it was my high school experience but better! I laughed, a lot, and cried a a few times, the writing was very well done, I loved the characters, the story line was sweet, romantic, sad, nostalgic, and just newly refreshing. The detail was amazing, I feel like Karen Gordon did a wonderful job on this book. The pace was great, then it went kind of fast when I wished it would slow down a bit but the want to read a second book was there for me, so very well done!
Carrie was perfect, she was the perfect mix of bad girl with a good girl inside. She was independent, but self conscious about the little things, she is loving and loyal to the people she's cares about and respectful, even to the people that don't always deserve it. Ben is the boy next door, all american, wholesome, caring and thoughtful. The two butt heads, but ultimately they were best friends destined to fall in love. MG is the carefree, have fun, consequences be damned, party girl. She loves Carrie enough to know when to push her a bit but also when to pull back and let things play out. Steve is one I wish to know more about (second book maybe?), he is funny sweet and desperately in love with MG.
Ultimately this was a great read about love and true friendship conquering all, through years, heartache, frights, differences, and distance. I loved it and can't wait to see what happens next. Great job Karen Gordon, can't wait to read more from you in the future.
December 15, 2014
Lost in a world where her parents either ignore her or judge her, Carrie turns to a crowd that is only about fun. Ben her neighbor and friend has been by her side and witnessed the neglect of her parents. He understands why she hangs out with the burnouts. What he doesn't understand nor like is her choice in boyfriends. Something that he has never liked because well he would like to fill the role.
I loved this story because is was of friends realizing how important their relationships really are to each other as friend and then as more than friends. They valued what they shred and respected each choice they made as they grew to become adults. No longer the burnout or the geek but two adults that share a history and a life filled with memories and a future.
BEn was my hero through the book, I loved him in every part. No you will not want to kick his butt, you will understand his motives and you will love him even more as you read the story. Now Carries I did wan to knock some sense into her every now and then. But I think that Karen was very wise in having her go through more challenges because she needed to learn just how strong she was despite everything that she has had to endure in her life. Our challenges make us who we are.
An amazing read and I can't wait to read the next one!
I loved this story because is was of friends realizing how important their relationships really are to each other as friend and then as more than friends. They valued what they shred and respected each choice they made as they grew to become adults. No longer the burnout or the geek but two adults that share a history and a life filled with memories and a future.
BEn was my hero through the book, I loved him in every part. No you will not want to kick his butt, you will understand his motives and you will love him even more as you read the story. Now Carries I did wan to knock some sense into her every now and then. But I think that Karen was very wise in having her go through more challenges because she needed to learn just how strong she was despite everything that she has had to endure in her life. Our challenges make us who we are.
An amazing read and I can't wait to read the next one!
January 7, 2017
Okay, what just happened? I was reading the book thinking it reminded me of "The Infinite Moment of Us," and thought it was a sweet/romantic YA read. Then, with about forty pages left, everything changed!
The love of Carrie's life, Ben, leaves and she gets pregnant by another man - and marries him. I am not angry with the character, but I have slightly mixed emotions towards the writer. Why?!? Naturally, the entire dynamic between the characters changed. This shift caught me off guard because it didn't seem to go with the previous 250 or so pages of the story (of which I was really invested in).
In the end, things work out, but that narrative detour really through me for a loop.
If someone has any thoughts on this, please let me know!
3 stars due mostly to the plot twist...otherwise, it would have been 4 stars.
The love of Carrie's life, Ben, leaves and she gets pregnant by another man - and marries him. I am not angry with the character, but I have slightly mixed emotions towards the writer. Why?!? Naturally, the entire dynamic between the characters changed. This shift caught me off guard because it didn't seem to go with the previous 250 or so pages of the story (of which I was really invested in).
In the end, things work out, but that narrative detour really through me for a loop.
If someone has any thoughts on this, please let me know!
3 stars due mostly to the plot twist...otherwise, it would have been 4 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2015
I got lost in a world full of burnouts, geeks & Jesus freaks...and I loved every minute of it. What a great debut novel by Karen Gordon! This well-written story transported me back to high school and made me fall in love with all of the amazing characters. It's full of humor, heartache, the usual high school drama, and love. Sweet, sweet Ben...I dare you not to fall in love with him. I definitely recommend this book!
January 10, 2015
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review new adult book club Goodreads.com**
Wow! What a great book, defiantly one of my all-time favourites and there's going to be another book in this series- good news indeed. Superbly well written, it had me laughing one minute and blubbering like an idiot the next- this is a book about the ups and downs of life.
The main characters are Carrie and Ben two people who at the start of the book are the perfect couple without them even knowing it. From a young age these two characters have been together through almost everything except for love. As their story progresses it's clear to everyone reading that they are meant to be together even though their lives are tough. This is a couple who in my opinion should go down as being great as it is an equal partnership between two likeminded people. It is a couple I rooted for from the beginning up until the very last page.
The secondary characters were briefly mentioned in passing, the only character I felt added to the story was MG and there's not much to say about her other than she was a fantastic influence in Cassie's teenage years who remained there in spirit until the end.
The pacing was great giving the characters time to develop as adults, which since the book is set across the characters lifespan and not just their teenage years I though was fantastic. In my opinion it did not feel rushed because it was as though we were living tragedy with the characters and that can at times feel blurred.
The storyline was similar of 'dear John' however I felt I had a much greater emotional connection to these two main characters since a larger proportion of the book was set in the teenage years helping us get to know the characters better.
5 stars. A great read by an author to look out for in future.
Wow! What a great book, defiantly one of my all-time favourites and there's going to be another book in this series- good news indeed. Superbly well written, it had me laughing one minute and blubbering like an idiot the next- this is a book about the ups and downs of life.
The main characters are Carrie and Ben two people who at the start of the book are the perfect couple without them even knowing it. From a young age these two characters have been together through almost everything except for love. As their story progresses it's clear to everyone reading that they are meant to be together even though their lives are tough. This is a couple who in my opinion should go down as being great as it is an equal partnership between two likeminded people. It is a couple I rooted for from the beginning up until the very last page.
The secondary characters were briefly mentioned in passing, the only character I felt added to the story was MG and there's not much to say about her other than she was a fantastic influence in Cassie's teenage years who remained there in spirit until the end.
The pacing was great giving the characters time to develop as adults, which since the book is set across the characters lifespan and not just their teenage years I though was fantastic. In my opinion it did not feel rushed because it was as though we were living tragedy with the characters and that can at times feel blurred.
The storyline was similar of 'dear John' however I felt I had a much greater emotional connection to these two main characters since a larger proportion of the book was set in the teenage years helping us get to know the characters better.
5 stars. A great read by an author to look out for in future.
May 12, 2014
The Good:
The nostalgic love story.
The characters of Carrie and Ben.
The Bad:
The ending felt rushed.
The Gif:
You win, Karen Gordon. You made me ugly cry. Sure, I have my sappy moments with books. I can fangirl with the best of them. But it's really rare for me to cry. Burnouts, Geeks, and Jesus Freaks had me blabbering and sobbing throughout the last twenty-five percent.
Carrie and Ben's story definitely transported me back in time to high school and all of the emotions from that time. Karen Gordon did an excellent job at capturing that feeling. I loved learning about Carrie, Ben, and their friends. They all felt like they could have been real people that I knew during my younger years. The authentic feel to this story is exactly what pulled so many emotions from me.
The ending of the book felt like a rushed blur, though. The first sixty-five percent or so was really focused on high school and everything to go along with it. But it felt like the last part flew through the span of several years. So much happened that I had to reread certain pages to keep up.
All in all, I really liked this book so much. It made me laugh. It made me cry. It made me cringe. It was the perfect reminder of how wonderful and awful that high school was. You won't be disappointed if you pick this one up!
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Karen Gordon.
The nostalgic love story.
The characters of Carrie and Ben.
The Bad:
The ending felt rushed.
The Gif:
You win, Karen Gordon. You made me ugly cry. Sure, I have my sappy moments with books. I can fangirl with the best of them. But it's really rare for me to cry. Burnouts, Geeks, and Jesus Freaks had me blabbering and sobbing throughout the last twenty-five percent.
Carrie and Ben's story definitely transported me back in time to high school and all of the emotions from that time. Karen Gordon did an excellent job at capturing that feeling. I loved learning about Carrie, Ben, and their friends. They all felt like they could have been real people that I knew during my younger years. The authentic feel to this story is exactly what pulled so many emotions from me.
The ending of the book felt like a rushed blur, though. The first sixty-five percent or so was really focused on high school and everything to go along with it. But it felt like the last part flew through the span of several years. So much happened that I had to reread certain pages to keep up.
All in all, I really liked this book so much. It made me laugh. It made me cry. It made me cringe. It was the perfect reminder of how wonderful and awful that high school was. You won't be disappointed if you pick this one up!
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Karen Gordon.
November 23, 2014
Where to start:
I was looking forward to reading this book after the raving reviews, but I was disappointed.
The main characters Ben and Carrie have been neighbors and friends for years but lately they have grown apart. Ben is dating a church girl and Carrie a guy who is older and a total loser.
The characters are not really developed, we don’t get to know Carrie she likes to party and drink, she’s doesn't sound very smart and after high school has no ambition, her home situation is strange her mother sounds crazy and her father couldn't care less.
Ben is great guy very sweet and working hard to get in the army.
Carrie and Ben start a relationship but break it off because Ben is leaving.
Carrie makes some dump decisions and her live turns into a disaster.
The writing didn't speak to me at all. It was distant and some scenes and drama were cliche. We have Ben and Carrie POV going back and forth but sometimes I got confused as to who was speaking. I wasn't feeling anything for the characters even though they had some good and bad times. The underage drinking was too much how do they even pay for the alcohol? They were behaving a lot older than the age given to them in the book.
I was looking forward to reading this book after the raving reviews, but I was disappointed.
The main characters Ben and Carrie have been neighbors and friends for years but lately they have grown apart. Ben is dating a church girl and Carrie a guy who is older and a total loser.
The characters are not really developed, we don’t get to know Carrie she likes to party and drink, she’s doesn't sound very smart and after high school has no ambition, her home situation is strange her mother sounds crazy and her father couldn't care less.
Ben is great guy very sweet and working hard to get in the army.
Carrie and Ben start a relationship but break it off because Ben is leaving.
Carrie makes some dump decisions and her live turns into a disaster.
The writing didn't speak to me at all. It was distant and some scenes and drama were cliche. We have Ben and Carrie POV going back and forth but sometimes I got confused as to who was speaking. I wasn't feeling anything for the characters even though they had some good and bad times. The underage drinking was too much how do they even pay for the alcohol? They were behaving a lot older than the age given to them in the book.
June 5, 2015
Copy was provided for an honest review.
All I can say is wow! This is a great coming of age, friends to lovers, pain of growing together and apart story. Basically, "Chuck Sucks," Carrie needs mass quantities of hugs and affection, Ben is the sweetest but most naive BBF. Watching this unfold was the best kind of painful, you have no choice but to remember how awkward growing up can be in reality. The choices you make for the wrong reasons and the disastrous consequences.
I am so glad there is another one! Oh and here is my other favorite t-shirt "Fuck Chuck, everyone else has!"
All I can say is wow! This is a great coming of age, friends to lovers, pain of growing together and apart story. Basically, "Chuck Sucks," Carrie needs mass quantities of hugs and affection, Ben is the sweetest but most naive BBF. Watching this unfold was the best kind of painful, you have no choice but to remember how awkward growing up can be in reality. The choices you make for the wrong reasons and the disastrous consequences.
I am so glad there is another one! Oh and here is my other favorite t-shirt "Fuck Chuck, everyone else has!"
December 12, 2014
We are proud to announce that BURNOUTS, GEEKS AND JESUS FREAKS: A LOVE STORY by Karen Gordon is a B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
March 3, 2015
What didn't I love about this book? Nothing! It completely devours you. It will keep tugging at your heart and making you grin like a fool. It's a true modern love story and I can't wait for the sequel! Thank you Karen for such beautiful writing.
April 12, 2015
I've recived this book in a exchange for an honest review..
this was a Nice refreshing read! A novel about love and true friendship , fights ,heartache,laught,differences, and distance. I liked it and I'm curious about what happens next. Nicely done Ms Gordon.
this was a Nice refreshing read! A novel about love and true friendship , fights ,heartache,laught,differences, and distance. I liked it and I'm curious about what happens next. Nicely done Ms Gordon.
December 20, 2017
Ben, the love of Carrie's life leaves and she gets pregnant by another man and marries him?!
It's not my idea of romance, thank you.
Ben, el amor de la vida de Carrie se va y ella queda embarazada de otro hombre y se casa con él?!
No es mi idea de romance, gracias.
It's not my idea of romance, thank you.
Ben, el amor de la vida de Carrie se va y ella queda embarazada de otro hombre y se casa con él?!
No es mi idea de romance, gracias.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2016
Rating: 2.5
December 21, 2016
ONE OF THE BEST I SWEAR I CRIED AND LAUGHED AND CRIED
August 18, 2024
Would the OG title have sold less? 100%. But what a title it was!
First off, this novel is ten years old... I feel the Tumblr filter clouding my vision in the best way. I love the way Ben and Carrie's lives were always intertwined (not just because they were neighbors, but they knew the secrets to making each other happy: i.e. Carrie accompanying Ben to his grandparents' church function, Ben eating the cake Carrie made on her bday when no one else-save for Two-fer-would).
Also, the characters/leads weren't painted as bad people for indulging in certain behaviors/having their lives turn out less than ideally; they were just kids and eventually young adults learning from their mistakes. Drinking and having sex weren't treated as dirty events, but doing them with the wrong person/for the wrong reason could really shape your life badly (Carrie hooking up with Chuck was awful for reasons I'll explain later, and even Nick, her eventual husband due to her becoming pregnant means she's shackled herself to a life too similar to her parents' unhappy marriage) Ben's relationship with Joelle ending wasn't just because of his feelings for Carrie, at the core, they're on different paths.
Carrie's life is a tough read for personal reasons (sad side note, her baking a yellow cake with chocolate icing because she was lonely on an eventful night and she saw the food in the media was the exact way I spent my sophomore prom night-although I made yellow boxed cup cakes with chocolate frosting after watching the Magnolia Bakery scene from SATC season 3-when all my friends were at said dance and no one asked me...): watching her watch her mother be emotionally immature and emotionally abusive when not outright ignoring her children almost made me want to skim. But it's important that we realize it's why Carrie does what she does (i.e. fall for older/more est. men), why her friendships are so important/feel more emotionally honest/almost found family-esque, despite the rebellion taking place in them, and why she's all in with Nick/her twins despite not really loving the guy. She craves normalcy/love, and is really good at giving it... to people who don't always give it back (until Ben that is).
Ben's the flip side of the broken coin: what Carrie could be if she let herself heal/move forward. Unlike a lot of her friends, Ben's got close family ties (save for his father), decent grades/test scores, and a future career plan from the time he was a child. And people who financially invest in him, not what he brings to their family (with Nick's family, you get the feeling they love the grandchildren Carrie brings to them, not Carrie herself; she's set up with a cushy-ish life for a bit, but only because of the babies).
Love the way sex is discussed here (Carrie's confused as to why it's not good with Chuck, why she can get off without him, never with him/if she's a bad person for not wanting to linger in bed with him). It's a different game when she and Ben do-the-do (they take time to learn each other, and they're on equal footing in terms of age/experience). Also, kudos to the novel for NEVER romanticizing Chuck (doing the math, they met when he was 18 and Carrie was 13... and he was selling her and her friends-who were also 13, btw- wine?!🤢 And then they started dating a couple of years later... when she was 15 and he was 20.... this continued for the better part of her turning 16 and his being 21 ). This guy read like the sleaze he was, thank God.
Was Nick's ending a bit much? Yes. But it did allow for a clean HEA for Carrie and Ben... side note, I did not know this was first in an interconnected duology... as in Ben and Carrie get their finale and the next book follows MG and Steve's romance. And yes, I will be reading it too.
First off, this novel is ten years old... I feel the Tumblr filter clouding my vision in the best way. I love the way Ben and Carrie's lives were always intertwined (not just because they were neighbors, but they knew the secrets to making each other happy: i.e. Carrie accompanying Ben to his grandparents' church function, Ben eating the cake Carrie made on her bday when no one else-save for Two-fer-would).
Also, the characters/leads weren't painted as bad people for indulging in certain behaviors/having their lives turn out less than ideally; they were just kids and eventually young adults learning from their mistakes. Drinking and having sex weren't treated as dirty events, but doing them with the wrong person/for the wrong reason could really shape your life badly (Carrie hooking up with Chuck was awful for reasons I'll explain later, and even Nick, her eventual husband due to her becoming pregnant means she's shackled herself to a life too similar to her parents' unhappy marriage) Ben's relationship with Joelle ending wasn't just because of his feelings for Carrie, at the core, they're on different paths.
Carrie's life is a tough read for personal reasons (sad side note, her baking a yellow cake with chocolate icing because she was lonely on an eventful night and she saw the food in the media was the exact way I spent my sophomore prom night-although I made yellow boxed cup cakes with chocolate frosting after watching the Magnolia Bakery scene from SATC season 3-when all my friends were at said dance and no one asked me...): watching her watch her mother be emotionally immature and emotionally abusive when not outright ignoring her children almost made me want to skim. But it's important that we realize it's why Carrie does what she does (i.e. fall for older/more est. men), why her friendships are so important/feel more emotionally honest/almost found family-esque, despite the rebellion taking place in them, and why she's all in with Nick/her twins despite not really loving the guy. She craves normalcy/love, and is really good at giving it... to people who don't always give it back (until Ben that is).
Ben's the flip side of the broken coin: what Carrie could be if she let herself heal/move forward. Unlike a lot of her friends, Ben's got close family ties (save for his father), decent grades/test scores, and a future career plan from the time he was a child. And people who financially invest in him, not what he brings to their family (with Nick's family, you get the feeling they love the grandchildren Carrie brings to them, not Carrie herself; she's set up with a cushy-ish life for a bit, but only because of the babies).
Love the way sex is discussed here (Carrie's confused as to why it's not good with Chuck, why she can get off without him, never with him/if she's a bad person for not wanting to linger in bed with him). It's a different game when she and Ben do-the-do (they take time to learn each other, and they're on equal footing in terms of age/experience). Also, kudos to the novel for NEVER romanticizing Chuck (doing the math, they met when he was 18 and Carrie was 13... and he was selling her and her friends-who were also 13, btw- wine?!🤢 And then they started dating a couple of years later... when she was 15 and he was 20.... this continued for the better part of her turning 16 and his being 21 ). This guy read like the sleaze he was, thank God.
Was Nick's ending a bit much? Yes. But it did allow for a clean HEA for Carrie and Ben... side note, I did not know this was first in an interconnected duology... as in Ben and Carrie get their finale and the next book follows MG and Steve's romance. And yes, I will be reading it too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2022
This book was absolutely AMAZING! I couldn’t put it down and read it in 24 hours. I sure can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out smiley
Ben and Carrie have been friends since they were 6 years old. Ben has loved Carrie since he was 13, but was afraid to tell her for fear she would not remain his friend.
They went through a lot of crap together through the years of friendship.
Will Carrie and Ben remain friends after Ben leaves Carrie behind to join the military?
Ben and Carrie have been friends since they were 6 years old. Ben has loved Carrie since he was 13, but was afraid to tell her for fear she would not remain his friend.
They went through a lot of crap together through the years of friendship.
Will Carrie and Ben remain friends after Ben leaves Carrie behind to join the military?
December 11, 2018
Heart warming tale of love
This one is pretty special. It reminds me that sometimes life gets in the way of love, but in the end we can still find it. The characters of Ben and Carrie are interesting and thoughtful. Carrie’s story is quite inspiring. The only flaw I saw was that the end was a bit rushed. But still who can argue with a HEA.
This one is pretty special. It reminds me that sometimes life gets in the way of love, but in the end we can still find it. The characters of Ben and Carrie are interesting and thoughtful. Carrie’s story is quite inspiring. The only flaw I saw was that the end was a bit rushed. But still who can argue with a HEA.
November 9, 2025
a real train wreck as it kept on going. The beginning wasn't bad but then everything fell apart.
August 20, 2014
I reviewed this at MustReadBooksOrDie with my friend Shelley!
Shel: I wasn't really sure what to expect with this novel but the title covers a lot of it. You have the 'burnouts" Carrie's friends --a little less on the ambitious side (understatement) and fairly anti-school/establishment. You have "geeks": Ben and his friends. And, you have the "Jesus freaks" Ben's girlfriend Joelle and her friends. As we all know from high school, though, these labels are really just silly ways to try to keep people out or in...and there's a lot of crossover between groups. Carrie and Ben are evidence of this; somehow they manage to merge groups and, eventually, leave those labels behind. Court: Funny how when I was in school, I would've probably been in Ben's group at first...now, however, I'm much more like Carrie (the anti-establishment part). Hah.
Shel: How do they do this? Well, they're neighbors and close friends..and eventually things change between them and as these shifts occur, new friends are made or exchanged or merged. Court: I loved that we get the background and build up of their relationship from when they were little.
Shel: The first half to 60% of this book is really dedicated to the high school part of their story. How Carrie escapes the strangeness of her house to have fun with MG and Steve and others. We also get to know Ben and the story of his mom/dad/grandparents and the struggles he has with Joelle. It's in this first 60% that we get to know these characters but I found it to be slow going until about 40% or Carrie and Ben's first Christmas break. Court: Ditto. Christmas Break was definitely the turning point.
Shel: *** pausing here to say that both of the Christmas breaks that are shown are some of my favorite and really some of the sweetest scenes...as is the camping scene..so sweet*** Court: ***Agree, Ben is really sweet.***
Shel: Once Christmas hits and prom drama happens we are zooming quickly to the end. The years pass swiftly and with many unexpected events happening. I was pleasantly surprised at Carrie's maturity at how she handled some things, especially considering how crappy her adult role models (her parents) were. I was a little unpleasantly surprised with some of Ben's choices too, even if I respected them and understood them. Court: I think this is where a) my heart broke for the characters and b) my heart sort of broke for me. I don't mean that I didn't enjoy the book very much, but Shel is right. The last part went way faster in time after we had built up a certain pace and timeline from the beginning. I thought the story was going one way, and definitely went another...which is on me as a reader.
Shel: Notice I'm being vague here so I don't spoil things...let's just say that I didn't always see where or how things were going to play out.
Shel: There were a few things I think I needed: a quicker pace in the beginning and a slower pace at the end, a little more explanation about Carrie's family--why and how ...I felt like I wanted to engage with that more and while I did feel for her, I was more annoyed with her mom and dad. Court: That part definitely felt unfinished to me. But...I had a wise person (Cece Carroll) tell me once that just because parents suck, doesn't mean that there is ever a big resolution or showdown. I can't always get what I want! Haha. So, I am still working on that. I always want the showdown!
Shel: I wanted to know more about Ben when he was gone..and more about Carrie..that last 40% would have huge chunks where time was a blink of an eye and then it would slow down and I wanted to understand more. I had questions. Court: Truth.
Shel: Overall, it was a sweet, fun novel and you'll have a chance to find out more with these characters when MG and Steve get the next story. Court: We have to find out more about them. It was so foreshadowed all along in this one. Oh, how they will be tormenting each other I bet!
Shelley: 3 stars
Courtney: 3 stars
Shel: I wasn't really sure what to expect with this novel but the title covers a lot of it. You have the 'burnouts" Carrie's friends --a little less on the ambitious side (understatement) and fairly anti-school/establishment. You have "geeks": Ben and his friends. And, you have the "Jesus freaks" Ben's girlfriend Joelle and her friends. As we all know from high school, though, these labels are really just silly ways to try to keep people out or in...and there's a lot of crossover between groups. Carrie and Ben are evidence of this; somehow they manage to merge groups and, eventually, leave those labels behind. Court: Funny how when I was in school, I would've probably been in Ben's group at first...now, however, I'm much more like Carrie (the anti-establishment part). Hah.
Shel: How do they do this? Well, they're neighbors and close friends..and eventually things change between them and as these shifts occur, new friends are made or exchanged or merged. Court: I loved that we get the background and build up of their relationship from when they were little.
Shel: The first half to 60% of this book is really dedicated to the high school part of their story. How Carrie escapes the strangeness of her house to have fun with MG and Steve and others. We also get to know Ben and the story of his mom/dad/grandparents and the struggles he has with Joelle. It's in this first 60% that we get to know these characters but I found it to be slow going until about 40% or Carrie and Ben's first Christmas break. Court: Ditto. Christmas Break was definitely the turning point.
Shel: *** pausing here to say that both of the Christmas breaks that are shown are some of my favorite and really some of the sweetest scenes...as is the camping scene..so sweet*** Court: ***Agree, Ben is really sweet.***
Shel: Once Christmas hits and prom drama happens we are zooming quickly to the end. The years pass swiftly and with many unexpected events happening. I was pleasantly surprised at Carrie's maturity at how she handled some things, especially considering how crappy her adult role models (her parents) were. I was a little unpleasantly surprised with some of Ben's choices too, even if I respected them and understood them. Court: I think this is where a) my heart broke for the characters and b) my heart sort of broke for me. I don't mean that I didn't enjoy the book very much, but Shel is right. The last part went way faster in time after we had built up a certain pace and timeline from the beginning. I thought the story was going one way, and definitely went another...which is on me as a reader.
Shel: Notice I'm being vague here so I don't spoil things...let's just say that I didn't always see where or how things were going to play out.
Shel: There were a few things I think I needed: a quicker pace in the beginning and a slower pace at the end, a little more explanation about Carrie's family--why and how ...I felt like I wanted to engage with that more and while I did feel for her, I was more annoyed with her mom and dad. Court: That part definitely felt unfinished to me. But...I had a wise person (Cece Carroll) tell me once that just because parents suck, doesn't mean that there is ever a big resolution or showdown. I can't always get what I want! Haha. So, I am still working on that. I always want the showdown!
Shel: I wanted to know more about Ben when he was gone..and more about Carrie..that last 40% would have huge chunks where time was a blink of an eye and then it would slow down and I wanted to understand more. I had questions. Court: Truth.
Shel: Overall, it was a sweet, fun novel and you'll have a chance to find out more with these characters when MG and Steve get the next story. Court: We have to find out more about them. It was so foreshadowed all along in this one. Oh, how they will be tormenting each other I bet!
Shelley: 3 stars
Courtney: 3 stars
January 6, 2015
The first book I've ever read by Karen Gordon, I was not sure what to expect, you read the title and you think YA teenage drama stuff, even for NA the title itself seems a bit immature. The cover is different and not what you'd expect once you start reading the book. To be honest the title and the cover don't really, at least to my mind match or encompasses all that the book is about. A love story it is, a cute yet emotionally messy but fulfilling love story.
That's about all the title got right. Yes, there's a burnouts group and one person who is considered a geek (Ben) yet his "group" isn't really mentioned until later on in the novel and even then, I'm not sure they're considered geeks, losers maybe, geeks not so sure. The Jesus Freaks, there was one prominent one and the other two (were there two?) I know for sure there was one more, Laura, weren't all that Jesus-y. I did come to like Laura and her view on Christianity once all the High School drama was out of the way. What I didn't understand was the introduction of Michelle(?) she fit into the preppy group and I wasn't sure what her role in the book was other than to throw us off guard because I wasn't sure how/why Carrie was feeling semi-hostile/guarded towards her, she seemed like a nice girl, maybe she was there as romantic interest and that was all, I don't really know.
Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks is to my eyes a coming of age novel. My favorite thing about this book is the character progression, not necessarily development, mind you, they are two different things.
I felt like Carrie could have developed more as the years went by or at least have her development be noticeable, which brings me to my biggest problem with this book: The writing while engaging was poorly done as was the Chapter and Year transitions. Such a good novel was made lesser by the authors inability to properly execute and order the book in a way that it transitioned from event to event seamlessly without the reader guessing what year and place the characters were, (*side note, what year was this? I feel like maybe 2000 or earlier?) , it was very frustrating, one minute they're 16 the next 21? I think I calculated 25 at one point, it was all over the place, especially when Two-fers age was brought up, I feel like he should have been older than 8 by the end of the book (just saying).
The author did an okay job of explaining loose ends but there were still some issues and questions that I had that left me flustered; what happened between MG and Carrie for them to stop talking (life, I get it) But when they made up there was no insight into what happened, also MG and Steve? Where we at with that? And here is a semi-big thing for me, I understand Ben and Carrie have history but that second time around, everything moved way too fast for my liking, or maybe that was the lack of proper transitioning at its finest, I didn't have a clue how much time had past, 2 weeks, 2 months before things became permanent? And what the hell is up with Ben giving up his dream of becoming a Ranger, that was the most important thing to him in this book and you just brushed it to the wayside with a so-so explanation from Carrie? Not even Ben's POV was used to explain why he gave it up, he was supposed to defer because he loved her so much but not not go! Did he just raise Grace and Benet as his own and not have any more children? He was okay with that? Obviously I think this was a very abrupt ending that needed a bit more substance for it to fully satisfy me.
All in all, I gave this book a 3.5 because I feel like giving the author the benefit of the doubt and thinking this is a rough rough draft before it gets edited and actually published, because there were a lot of things that needed to be fixed with some good editing. If this is the published edited version then, good story, so-so writing and character development and story progression, I give it a 2.5
That's about all the title got right. Yes, there's a burnouts group and one person who is considered a geek (Ben) yet his "group" isn't really mentioned until later on in the novel and even then, I'm not sure they're considered geeks, losers maybe, geeks not so sure. The Jesus Freaks, there was one prominent one and the other two (were there two?) I know for sure there was one more, Laura, weren't all that Jesus-y. I did come to like Laura and her view on Christianity once all the High School drama was out of the way. What I didn't understand was the introduction of Michelle(?) she fit into the preppy group and I wasn't sure what her role in the book was other than to throw us off guard because I wasn't sure how/why Carrie was feeling semi-hostile/guarded towards her, she seemed like a nice girl, maybe she was there as romantic interest and that was all, I don't really know.
Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks is to my eyes a coming of age novel. My favorite thing about this book is the character progression, not necessarily development, mind you, they are two different things.
I felt like Carrie could have developed more as the years went by or at least have her development be noticeable, which brings me to my biggest problem with this book: The writing while engaging was poorly done as was the Chapter and Year transitions. Such a good novel was made lesser by the authors inability to properly execute and order the book in a way that it transitioned from event to event seamlessly without the reader guessing what year and place the characters were, (*side note, what year was this? I feel like maybe 2000 or earlier?) , it was very frustrating, one minute they're 16 the next 21? I think I calculated 25 at one point, it was all over the place, especially when Two-fers age was brought up, I feel like he should have been older than 8 by the end of the book (just saying).
The author did an okay job of explaining loose ends but there were still some issues and questions that I had that left me flustered; what happened between MG and Carrie for them to stop talking (life, I get it) But when they made up there was no insight into what happened, also MG and Steve? Where we at with that? And here is a semi-big thing for me, I understand Ben and Carrie have history but that second time around, everything moved way too fast for my liking, or maybe that was the lack of proper transitioning at its finest, I didn't have a clue how much time had past, 2 weeks, 2 months before things became permanent? And what the hell is up with Ben giving up his dream of becoming a Ranger, that was the most important thing to him in this book and you just brushed it to the wayside with a so-so explanation from Carrie? Not even Ben's POV was used to explain why he gave it up, he was supposed to defer because he loved her so much but not not go! Did he just raise Grace and Benet as his own and not have any more children? He was okay with that? Obviously I think this was a very abrupt ending that needed a bit more substance for it to fully satisfy me.
All in all, I gave this book a 3.5 because I feel like giving the author the benefit of the doubt and thinking this is a rough rough draft before it gets edited and actually published, because there were a lot of things that needed to be fixed with some good editing. If this is the published edited version then, good story, so-so writing and character development and story progression, I give it a 2.5
August 17, 2014
*I was provided an ecopy of this book in exchange of an honest review*
Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks is a unique novel. In a good way. It takes you back to the 90s, the age of Nintendo’s and teenagers hiding while drinking. Kind of a nostalgic read. So without further ado, here we go:
The Burnout:
Carrie Gould: She’s honestly one of the most relatable characters I’ve ever read. So well written and I can say that I feel like I know Carrie. And if you read her, you’ll see that you’ve met many Carries’ in your life too. She’s written as one of those people who are hidden and behind the scenes but I suppose that’s the way she wants to be. She’s had a neglected childhood with a mother for whom she’ll never be perfect and a father who doesn’t give a shit—so it’s no wonder she likes to stay invisible. And she is awkward and scared and nervous and easily influenced. Many YA books often show their lead characters as perfect and/or incapable of making mistakes. I like the fact that Miss Gordon has shown Carrie’s flaws. This teenager makes mistakes. And she learns.
The Geek:
Ben Gorman is the ideal geek. He’s the type of guy I’d see obsessing over The Big Bang Theory and actually understanding Sheldon’s references if the story was based in this decade. He’s sweet, loyal, maybe a tad bit overprotective and he’s had responsibilities thrust upon his shoulders at an early age. One would expect a person like this to snap under the pressure but it’s the maturity that Ben has and his military approach to life that keeps him sane. And his love for Carrie of course. There was a point in the book where I did dislike him, though. When he leaves to join the military, he writes a letter to Carrie to date other people. *throws hands up in the air* That’s not the way it’s done, Benno. We don’t let people we love date other people. We fight for them. We ask them to hold on. And we never, ever tell them to date behind our backs. Hmph.
The Jesus Freak
There’s not much to say about Joelle. She’s a scary church goer and wishes her then boyfriend Ben to convert. He refuses. She tries to destroy his lifelong friendship with Carrie. She fails. She’s out.
I would like to see a little more of Joelle, though—maybe in the sequel. She’s selfish but I also felt sorry for her when Ben gave her a promise ring and soon after dumped her sorry ass. Which brings me to one more point about Ben that I didn’t like: He dumped Joelle simply because he had to. He was almost searching for reasons to get rid of her. Not fair.
Supporting characters included Steve, MG, Chuck and a few other friends that were on the fringes. Their angles are hopefully the ones that will be explored in the next book of the series.
The end of the book felt a bit rushed and there was an entire string of events starting from Nick and ending at his death that I did not appreciate. Carrie married because she was pregnant and her husband died when he wanted to mend his relationship with her. On Ben’s return after so many years, he was proposing to Carrie in just a week. That didn’t work for me. Maybe his deployment could have been held off until the next book and Nick’s character could have been explored in a little more depth. Nonetheless, I was glad to see ben back with Carrie. The ending ended up being a cliffhanger which has left me intrigued and very, very curious about the Steve-MG angle.
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal.
Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks is a unique novel. In a good way. It takes you back to the 90s, the age of Nintendo’s and teenagers hiding while drinking. Kind of a nostalgic read. So without further ado, here we go:
The Burnout:
Carrie Gould: She’s honestly one of the most relatable characters I’ve ever read. So well written and I can say that I feel like I know Carrie. And if you read her, you’ll see that you’ve met many Carries’ in your life too. She’s written as one of those people who are hidden and behind the scenes but I suppose that’s the way she wants to be. She’s had a neglected childhood with a mother for whom she’ll never be perfect and a father who doesn’t give a shit—so it’s no wonder she likes to stay invisible. And she is awkward and scared and nervous and easily influenced. Many YA books often show their lead characters as perfect and/or incapable of making mistakes. I like the fact that Miss Gordon has shown Carrie’s flaws. This teenager makes mistakes. And she learns.
The Geek:
Ben Gorman is the ideal geek. He’s the type of guy I’d see obsessing over The Big Bang Theory and actually understanding Sheldon’s references if the story was based in this decade. He’s sweet, loyal, maybe a tad bit overprotective and he’s had responsibilities thrust upon his shoulders at an early age. One would expect a person like this to snap under the pressure but it’s the maturity that Ben has and his military approach to life that keeps him sane. And his love for Carrie of course. There was a point in the book where I did dislike him, though. When he leaves to join the military, he writes a letter to Carrie to date other people. *throws hands up in the air* That’s not the way it’s done, Benno. We don’t let people we love date other people. We fight for them. We ask them to hold on. And we never, ever tell them to date behind our backs. Hmph.
The Jesus Freak
There’s not much to say about Joelle. She’s a scary church goer and wishes her then boyfriend Ben to convert. He refuses. She tries to destroy his lifelong friendship with Carrie. She fails. She’s out.
I would like to see a little more of Joelle, though—maybe in the sequel. She’s selfish but I also felt sorry for her when Ben gave her a promise ring and soon after dumped her sorry ass. Which brings me to one more point about Ben that I didn’t like: He dumped Joelle simply because he had to. He was almost searching for reasons to get rid of her. Not fair.
Supporting characters included Steve, MG, Chuck and a few other friends that were on the fringes. Their angles are hopefully the ones that will be explored in the next book of the series.
The end of the book felt a bit rushed and there was an entire string of events starting from Nick and ending at his death that I did not appreciate. Carrie married because she was pregnant and her husband died when he wanted to mend his relationship with her. On Ben’s return after so many years, he was proposing to Carrie in just a week. That didn’t work for me. Maybe his deployment could have been held off until the next book and Nick’s character could have been explored in a little more depth. Nonetheless, I was glad to see ben back with Carrie. The ending ended up being a cliffhanger which has left me intrigued and very, very curious about the Steve-MG angle.
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2014
Surprised at what a cute story this turned into... Loved it!! Full review soon!
Updated 6/23/14:
What a freakin’ surprise, out of nowhere, this little story ended up being. Okay, here’s the deal. Bloggers get requests to review books. Yes, crazy, I know. I got asked to read and review this little pink ditty and I said “sure”. The cover is the prettiest shade of pink. But honestly, I’m not a huge fan of the looooooong title; I can never remember it correctly so I just refer to it in my head as ‘The Burnouts’ book.
But this story is nothing really about burnouts. Okay, it sort of is. But it is SO much more! Ms. Gordon, your synopsis is just too vague. Yeah, yeah, it’s got a love story in there but it’s more like a LIFE story of one couple’s love. Am I giving too much away? Nah, let me explain…
Carrie lives next door to Ben and they’ve grown up together. Ben was always the geeky “boy scout” who had aspirations to be in the Army. Carrie just lived in the moment with the ultimate goal to escape her home life. But for as long as they’ve lived next to each other, they’ve always been in each other’s life, or at least known what is going on it.
This story captures that time in everyone’s life when you’re finishing high school and going forward into the world. Do you stick to the plans and dreams you’ve had since you were 10 years old. Or do you adapt, make sacrifices, and changes for the “bigger” things you never knew you wanted in life? What if you fail? Who’s there to catch you?
I remember that time well…
I guess that’s why I enjoyed this story immensely! I enjoyed it so much I got pissed, I giggled like a schoolgirl, and I bawled like a baby. It may have been that time of the month but I really don’t think so. I think the story just really got to me.
Supporting characters were interesting, too! I did get a wee bit frustrated trying to figure out MG, Carrie’s best friend. I think that was only because she didn’t have a “voice” in the story. But I WILL understand that crazy brain of her’s soon (see below). And the writing? Superb. In my ARC copy, I don’t recall finding any typos. That is always a turnoff for me, especially with independently published books.
I’m not going to spoil anything for you but let me assure you of this: there is a HEA but it is NOT a straight line to get there. And for that, I commend Ms. Gordon. Some reviewers may have felt that the curveballs thrown-in were unnecessary. I thought them true to life. This ain’t no fairy tale ;) Well, it kind of is…
Ms. Gordon is madly working on the next book in the series which looks like it picks up on the side story with MG! Yes, I will know what the heck MG was thinking…
Review appears on
Updated 6/23/14:
What a freakin’ surprise, out of nowhere, this little story ended up being. Okay, here’s the deal. Bloggers get requests to review books. Yes, crazy, I know. I got asked to read and review this little pink ditty and I said “sure”. The cover is the prettiest shade of pink. But honestly, I’m not a huge fan of the looooooong title; I can never remember it correctly so I just refer to it in my head as ‘The Burnouts’ book.
But this story is nothing really about burnouts. Okay, it sort of is. But it is SO much more! Ms. Gordon, your synopsis is just too vague. Yeah, yeah, it’s got a love story in there but it’s more like a LIFE story of one couple’s love. Am I giving too much away? Nah, let me explain…
Carrie lives next door to Ben and they’ve grown up together. Ben was always the geeky “boy scout” who had aspirations to be in the Army. Carrie just lived in the moment with the ultimate goal to escape her home life. But for as long as they’ve lived next to each other, they’ve always been in each other’s life, or at least known what is going on it.
This story captures that time in everyone’s life when you’re finishing high school and going forward into the world. Do you stick to the plans and dreams you’ve had since you were 10 years old. Or do you adapt, make sacrifices, and changes for the “bigger” things you never knew you wanted in life? What if you fail? Who’s there to catch you?
I remember that time well…
I guess that’s why I enjoyed this story immensely! I enjoyed it so much I got pissed, I giggled like a schoolgirl, and I bawled like a baby. It may have been that time of the month but I really don’t think so. I think the story just really got to me.
Supporting characters were interesting, too! I did get a wee bit frustrated trying to figure out MG, Carrie’s best friend. I think that was only because she didn’t have a “voice” in the story. But I WILL understand that crazy brain of her’s soon (see below). And the writing? Superb. In my ARC copy, I don’t recall finding any typos. That is always a turnoff for me, especially with independently published books.
I’m not going to spoil anything for you but let me assure you of this: there is a HEA but it is NOT a straight line to get there. And for that, I commend Ms. Gordon. Some reviewers may have felt that the curveballs thrown-in were unnecessary. I thought them true to life. This ain’t no fairy tale ;) Well, it kind of is…
Ms. Gordon is madly working on the next book in the series which looks like it picks up on the side story with MG! Yes, I will know what the heck MG was thinking…
Review appears on
December 12, 2015
This review was posted on my blog:
http://thereadingkitten.blogspot.nl/2...
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy for review!
Unfortunately this book really wasn't for me. I didn't like it at all. The first half of the book I thought was really boring. Not much happened, or at least to me nothing interesting did. I didn't feel engaged in the story and I wasn't really connecting with the characters either. I didn't think Carrie was a very likable main character, but when I got a little further into the story I liked her a little bit better. The other characters were just okay as well... I wasn't crazy about any of them, to be honest.
After the second half the story picked up a little, but I still wasn't really enjoying it. I liked the beginning of Carrie and Ben's relationship, but as it progressed I realized that I wasn't really feeling the romance between them. I felt like the author tried very hard to make their relationship seem realistic and I guess it was, but for me that didn't make it any more fun to read about. I'd prefer a sappy romance story over awkward, "realistic" romance any time.
The twist near the end of the book kind of shocked me, but not really in a good way. I felt like it was kind of unnecessary and all the events that followed after it were very rushed. It was all a bit too dramatic and I just really didn't like it.
The writing style was okay. I thought the constant point of view switches between Ben and Carrie were a bit strange. I really don't mind alternating points of view in between chapters, but this book would switch between characters in the same chapter multiple times. Like at one point it said: "He hesitated to say it, because he knew she thought he was such an old man, but safety was safety." which is obviously from Ben's POV, but then a few sentences later we would hear Carrie's thoughts again: "Carrie smirked as she pulled her belt across and hooked it, resisting the urge to give him grieve. [...] She didn't want to make him mad." I don't know, maybe it's just a particular writing style, but I hadn't seen it before and I thought it was a bit confusing at times.
Overall this book really wasn't my thing, but you might still like it, so if this sounds like a fun read to you, don't let me stop you from giving it a try.
http://thereadingkitten.blogspot.nl/2...
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy for review!
Unfortunately this book really wasn't for me. I didn't like it at all. The first half of the book I thought was really boring. Not much happened, or at least to me nothing interesting did. I didn't feel engaged in the story and I wasn't really connecting with the characters either. I didn't think Carrie was a very likable main character, but when I got a little further into the story I liked her a little bit better. The other characters were just okay as well... I wasn't crazy about any of them, to be honest.
After the second half the story picked up a little, but I still wasn't really enjoying it. I liked the beginning of Carrie and Ben's relationship, but as it progressed I realized that I wasn't really feeling the romance between them. I felt like the author tried very hard to make their relationship seem realistic and I guess it was, but for me that didn't make it any more fun to read about. I'd prefer a sappy romance story over awkward, "realistic" romance any time.
The twist near the end of the book kind of shocked me, but not really in a good way. I felt like it was kind of unnecessary and all the events that followed after it were very rushed. It was all a bit too dramatic and I just really didn't like it.
The writing style was okay. I thought the constant point of view switches between Ben and Carrie were a bit strange. I really don't mind alternating points of view in between chapters, but this book would switch between characters in the same chapter multiple times. Like at one point it said: "He hesitated to say it, because he knew she thought he was such an old man, but safety was safety." which is obviously from Ben's POV, but then a few sentences later we would hear Carrie's thoughts again: "Carrie smirked as she pulled her belt across and hooked it, resisting the urge to give him grieve. [...] She didn't want to make him mad." I don't know, maybe it's just a particular writing style, but I hadn't seen it before and I thought it was a bit confusing at times.
Overall this book really wasn't my thing, but you might still like it, so if this sounds like a fun read to you, don't let me stop you from giving it a try.
June 4, 2014
*I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review*
The first half of this book was like a trip down memory lane, filled with nostalgia and memories from my own school years. It was pretty much what I expected the book to be. The second half was more like a strobe light. Every blink of the light brought you further and further into the future. And oh boy does it come with some crazy surprises, some heartbreaking moments, and occasional happy tears. (Goodness gracious Ben sure knows how to make Carrie cry with his sweetness.)
Carrie is probably one of the most relatable characters, not that they all aren’t. She’s like a lot of teenagers, just trying to find her way and figure out who she is while trying to keep her friends happy and have fun. Though growing up is never easy and she has more than her share of heartbreaks from family, friends, and guys, but there’s always one rock who’s always there for her to cling to, even when he isn’t physically there…Ben.
“Where was the book with ideas on how not to fall in love with a guy whose girlfriend wears a promise ring…and calls you a whore?”
Ben is Carrie’s geeky next door neighbor who’s always had a crush on her. After one night, right before high school, when he kissed her it had changed things and their friendship grew apart. She hung out with the burnouts, even though she wasn’t technically one. He hung out with the geeks and started dating a Jesus freak, Joelle, who hated Carrie. He’s smart and brave and knows exactly what he wants in life, problem is that sometimes what you thought was important doesn’t always seem so later and priorities change.
“I won’t tell your mom…” he paused to build up courage, “If you’ll kiss me.”
The rollercoaster of Carrie and Ben’s relationship was as hectic and emotional as life itself. I don’t want to give anything way so all I can say is… Everyone deserves a Ben!
There are many other loveable characters like MG and Steve, whom I hope to read more about in the upcoming sequel Popstars, Friends and Lovers. If you’re up for a trip down memory lane (well back to the 80′s) then I’d suggest you grab this one.
My Favorite Quote: “MG, did you lick his Twinkie?”
My Favorite Moment: A camping trip and the sauce incident on the way there that had him telling her he lied.
“They were way into his fantasy land now.”
The first half of this book was like a trip down memory lane, filled with nostalgia and memories from my own school years. It was pretty much what I expected the book to be. The second half was more like a strobe light. Every blink of the light brought you further and further into the future. And oh boy does it come with some crazy surprises, some heartbreaking moments, and occasional happy tears. (Goodness gracious Ben sure knows how to make Carrie cry with his sweetness.)
Carrie is probably one of the most relatable characters, not that they all aren’t. She’s like a lot of teenagers, just trying to find her way and figure out who she is while trying to keep her friends happy and have fun. Though growing up is never easy and she has more than her share of heartbreaks from family, friends, and guys, but there’s always one rock who’s always there for her to cling to, even when he isn’t physically there…Ben.
“Where was the book with ideas on how not to fall in love with a guy whose girlfriend wears a promise ring…and calls you a whore?”
Ben is Carrie’s geeky next door neighbor who’s always had a crush on her. After one night, right before high school, when he kissed her it had changed things and their friendship grew apart. She hung out with the burnouts, even though she wasn’t technically one. He hung out with the geeks and started dating a Jesus freak, Joelle, who hated Carrie. He’s smart and brave and knows exactly what he wants in life, problem is that sometimes what you thought was important doesn’t always seem so later and priorities change.
“I won’t tell your mom…” he paused to build up courage, “If you’ll kiss me.”
The rollercoaster of Carrie and Ben’s relationship was as hectic and emotional as life itself. I don’t want to give anything way so all I can say is… Everyone deserves a Ben!
There are many other loveable characters like MG and Steve, whom I hope to read more about in the upcoming sequel Popstars, Friends and Lovers. If you’re up for a trip down memory lane (well back to the 80′s) then I’d suggest you grab this one.
My Favorite Quote: “MG, did you lick his Twinkie?”
My Favorite Moment: A camping trip and the sauce incident on the way there that had him telling her he lied.
“They were way into his fantasy land now.”
June 24, 2014
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Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks is a quirky and really sweet love story. The story starts in 1999 and spans many years, following the characters throughout childhood, high school and beyond. It was lots of fun, super sweet, and gives you a couple that you just want to root for against all odds. Ben and Carrie are next door neighbors, Ben falling into the geek category and Carrie falling more into the burnout category by default. But they are each so much more than their stereotypes. Karen Gordon does an excellent job at both poking fun at and exaggerating the stereotypes as she does with making her characters grow and break the mold.
Carrie has it rough at home. Her mother is basically unhinged and all she does it take it out on Carrie. Only Ben and MG know what her home life is really like. And because of her mothers verbal abuse, Carrie has a big issue with letting anyone see her cry. As weird as this sounds, tracking her progress with this fear throughout the novel was really sweet and endearing to me.
Ben is just the sweetest guy on the planet. Yes, one of his choices tore me up inside but he eventually makes up for it. Although, I will say that I doubted it for a while there. Things got pretty rough for some characters for a while. This book took me on a rollercoaster ride of all the emotions imaginable. I wanted to see a little bit more of what happened at the end of the story. The first 65% of the story was wonderfully detailed and the pacing was perfect and then things all started unraveling very fast and once they started to resolve themselves I wanted the pacing to slow down again so I could enjoy the end, but it was still at the same heightened pace. It wasn't bad, but I selfishly wanted more Ben and Carrie.
Karen Gordon did a fantastic job with the writing in Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks. I laughed, I teared up, I awhed. It was quirky fun, had plenty of swoons and if you don't fall in love with Ben I officially think something is wrong with you.
Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks is a quirky and really sweet love story. The story starts in 1999 and spans many years, following the characters throughout childhood, high school and beyond. It was lots of fun, super sweet, and gives you a couple that you just want to root for against all odds. Ben and Carrie are next door neighbors, Ben falling into the geek category and Carrie falling more into the burnout category by default. But they are each so much more than their stereotypes. Karen Gordon does an excellent job at both poking fun at and exaggerating the stereotypes as she does with making her characters grow and break the mold.
Carrie has it rough at home. Her mother is basically unhinged and all she does it take it out on Carrie. Only Ben and MG know what her home life is really like. And because of her mothers verbal abuse, Carrie has a big issue with letting anyone see her cry. As weird as this sounds, tracking her progress with this fear throughout the novel was really sweet and endearing to me.
Ben is just the sweetest guy on the planet. Yes, one of his choices tore me up inside but he eventually makes up for it. Although, I will say that I doubted it for a while there. Things got pretty rough for some characters for a while. This book took me on a rollercoaster ride of all the emotions imaginable. I wanted to see a little bit more of what happened at the end of the story. The first 65% of the story was wonderfully detailed and the pacing was perfect and then things all started unraveling very fast and once they started to resolve themselves I wanted the pacing to slow down again so I could enjoy the end, but it was still at the same heightened pace. It wasn't bad, but I selfishly wanted more Ben and Carrie.
Karen Gordon did a fantastic job with the writing in Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks. I laughed, I teared up, I awhed. It was quirky fun, had plenty of swoons and if you don't fall in love with Ben I officially think something is wrong with you.
April 1, 2014
At first, I wasn't sure that I would like this book. But then Carrie and Ben drew me in. It was their easy friendship, the way that Ben made Carrie feel as if things weren't really that bad and vice versa. That relationship easily drew me into the book until I was reading just to find out what would happen between the two. You find yourself hoping against hope that maybe this will be the tale where first loves are the forever kind. Carrie is such a smart alec that you just find yourself wondering how she'll respond. Then Ben is the cute, easy to get along with guy who still does sweet things for you. It's no wonder that you quickly fall for both of these characters.
But then there's also the fact that Karen Gordon makes you feel a whole spectre of emotions in Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks. You can go from laughing, to smiling about some sweet thing that happens to starting to tear up. And it all feels natural. Like it isn't a book that you're reading but the story that one of your friends is sharing. It just seems so simple and easy, and the voice that Karen Gordon uses to tell her story makes it seem as if you're finding out the story of a friend or an acquaintance, one that quickly gets your hooks into you and makes you feel hope for love. But Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks isn't all about the happy times. It does have difficulties and ones that seem quite realistic and probable. It sounds like something you've seen or could see on the news or in your own life.
Overall, Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks is a love story that will make you fall in love with it. It's something that could be read anywhere and everywhere, keeping the reader entertained with both the plot and characters.
Read this review and more at Reading Shy With Aly
But then there's also the fact that Karen Gordon makes you feel a whole spectre of emotions in Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks. You can go from laughing, to smiling about some sweet thing that happens to starting to tear up. And it all feels natural. Like it isn't a book that you're reading but the story that one of your friends is sharing. It just seems so simple and easy, and the voice that Karen Gordon uses to tell her story makes it seem as if you're finding out the story of a friend or an acquaintance, one that quickly gets your hooks into you and makes you feel hope for love. But Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks isn't all about the happy times. It does have difficulties and ones that seem quite realistic and probable. It sounds like something you've seen or could see on the news or in your own life.
Overall, Burnouts, Geeks and Jesus Freaks is a love story that will make you fall in love with it. It's something that could be read anywhere and everywhere, keeping the reader entertained with both the plot and characters.
Read this review and more at Reading Shy With Aly
September 9, 2014
I think, based on the title and the cover, I thought this book was going to focus more on the differences between the characters and their social status. But at the end of the day (and this was definitely a moral of the story) everyone is more than what you see.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I liked the way the characters evolved and I really enjoyed the natural progression of Ben and Carrie’s relationship. Karen Gordon writes teenagers really well. There’s a funny blend of arrogance and insecurity that comes with being a teen, and I think Carrie in particular reflected that. Carrie’s insecurities about her friend group (and her later realization that they truly were her friends) was nice to see, and I think realistic. Even Ben, moral, confident, on the straight and narrow, had his own weaknesses and struggles with the unknown.
I found the ending inspired, although rushed. For so much effort to be focused on the build up their relationship, the last third of the book pushed through a lot of significant events, and of which play a very important role in the eventual conclusion.
I also wish that there’d been a bit more clarification as to what the deal is with Carrie’s parents - even a bit more history that emphasized her parents indifference/dislike of her would have helped emphasize her crappy home life.
All in all I was quite impressed with this book, and I look forward to reading more by the author!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I liked the way the characters evolved and I really enjoyed the natural progression of Ben and Carrie’s relationship. Karen Gordon writes teenagers really well. There’s a funny blend of arrogance and insecurity that comes with being a teen, and I think Carrie in particular reflected that. Carrie’s insecurities about her friend group (and her later realization that they truly were her friends) was nice to see, and I think realistic. Even Ben, moral, confident, on the straight and narrow, had his own weaknesses and struggles with the unknown.
I found the ending inspired, although rushed. For so much effort to be focused on the build up their relationship, the last third of the book pushed through a lot of significant events, and of which play a very important role in the eventual conclusion.
I also wish that there’d been a bit more clarification as to what the deal is with Carrie’s parents - even a bit more history that emphasized her parents indifference/dislike of her would have helped emphasize her crappy home life.
All in all I was quite impressed with this book, and I look forward to reading more by the author!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2016
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Carrie's home life is crappy and she does anything to escape..older boyfriend, partying but nothing too harsh or harmful. I think Carrie is a little superficial in the beginning, but Ben offsets that. She and Ben have always been intertwined with each other. Ben has crushed on her forever. He is the perfect book boyfriend..supportive, caring and totally adorable. He was realistic when he was undecided with Joelle and realizing his true feelings for Carrie as they got older.
Ben is very career focused...knows himself and what he wants as career from early age. When he and Carrie get together finally, she decides to let it ride and see what happens and enjoy the "now". They have a fantastic relationship, very compatible, they know each other inside and out. They are friends and lovers. She "sets him free" to move into his career training and tries to wait.
Time goes by, Carrie meets someone else, not love but has potential. A Side order of an unexpected pregnancy, shotgun wedding and full time responsibility brings a very different life for her. This is a coming of age for Carrie, which she handles well considering her circumstances. She grows up, adapts and accepts everything as it comes. The story comes full circle and in the end everyone gets the happily ever after they were searching for.
Overall I enjoyed this book. The writing flowed well and it grabbed my interest right away. I look forward to reading other books by this author in the future.
Carrie's home life is crappy and she does anything to escape..older boyfriend, partying but nothing too harsh or harmful. I think Carrie is a little superficial in the beginning, but Ben offsets that. She and Ben have always been intertwined with each other. Ben has crushed on her forever. He is the perfect book boyfriend..supportive, caring and totally adorable. He was realistic when he was undecided with Joelle and realizing his true feelings for Carrie as they got older.
Ben is very career focused...knows himself and what he wants as career from early age. When he and Carrie get together finally, she decides to let it ride and see what happens and enjoy the "now". They have a fantastic relationship, very compatible, they know each other inside and out. They are friends and lovers. She "sets him free" to move into his career training and tries to wait.
Time goes by, Carrie meets someone else, not love but has potential. A Side order of an unexpected pregnancy, shotgun wedding and full time responsibility brings a very different life for her. This is a coming of age for Carrie, which she handles well considering her circumstances. She grows up, adapts and accepts everything as it comes. The story comes full circle and in the end everyone gets the happily ever after they were searching for.
Overall I enjoyed this book. The writing flowed well and it grabbed my interest right away. I look forward to reading other books by this author in the future.
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