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Hearts to Follow #1-3
Hearts to Follow
The Hearts to Follow Series is made up of three YA contemporary romance novellas!
JUST PRETENDING: Everything in Cam’s life is finally going right. Despite many of her best friend being out of town for the summer, she is ready to have some fun. With her good friend Josh by her side, Cam is just starting to really enjoy the time off school, when Nick comes wandering back into her life. It’s been a year since Cam last saw Nick, but the wound is still fresh. The heartbreak Nick caused so long ago left Cam in pieces. Now that he is back, she is quickly falling apart one again. And the fact that he brought his new girlfriend Gina along for his vacation is only making it worse. Not wanting to see the shell of a person Cam once was thanks to Nick, Josh comes up with an idea: he will play the role of Cam’s boyfriend to make Nick jealous. Although the plan seems impossible, Cam quickly realizes it’s working. Or at least it seems like it’s working from the outside. But to everyone on the inside things get messy fast. With feelings, emotions, and kissing flying all around, will Cam ever stop the pretending and land the true love she’s been looking for?
CHANGED?: As a new school year begins, Summer is certain heading back to classes will be like every other year. But, as she quickly learns, she missed a lot while she was gone during the break. Not only are her friends attending parties Summer never thought she would go to, they have new friends Summer has no interest in getting to know. Sitting at the top of the list of people Summer doesn't care to spend time with, is none other than Nick. But, after a chance encounter at a party, Summer soon learns that Nick is trying to make a big change. Hearing him talk about trying to study more, avoid partying, and even ignoring the constant rumors about his recent breakup with yet another popular cheerleader, has Summer conflicted. It sounds like Nick is trying to make a new name for himself, but is it really that simple? Can he really turn over a new leaf and show Summer he’s someone worth spending time with? Is Summer willing to risk it all to find out if Nick has really changed?
STAGE LIGHTS: Tessa has always been confident. Some even say too confident. But that comes with knowing what you want, and always getting it. Show after show what she wanted was the lead role on the stage, and that was exactly what she got. But as her senior year of high school approaches, Tessa is looking for something bigger and better. So, when Tessa is cast in a college level theater production of Romeo and Juliet, she knows just what she wants. Anthony, a college junior and the hottest guy Tessa has ever seen, is cast as Romeo opposite Tessa’s Juliet. The casting is perfect in Tessa’s eyes, and she is certain her time on stage will only speed up things off stage. Going after what she wants like always, can Tessa land her leading man? With her sights set firmly on Anthony, can Tessa find true love under the stage lights.
JUST PRETENDING: Everything in Cam’s life is finally going right. Despite many of her best friend being out of town for the summer, she is ready to have some fun. With her good friend Josh by her side, Cam is just starting to really enjoy the time off school, when Nick comes wandering back into her life. It’s been a year since Cam last saw Nick, but the wound is still fresh. The heartbreak Nick caused so long ago left Cam in pieces. Now that he is back, she is quickly falling apart one again. And the fact that he brought his new girlfriend Gina along for his vacation is only making it worse. Not wanting to see the shell of a person Cam once was thanks to Nick, Josh comes up with an idea: he will play the role of Cam’s boyfriend to make Nick jealous. Although the plan seems impossible, Cam quickly realizes it’s working. Or at least it seems like it’s working from the outside. But to everyone on the inside things get messy fast. With feelings, emotions, and kissing flying all around, will Cam ever stop the pretending and land the true love she’s been looking for?
CHANGED?: As a new school year begins, Summer is certain heading back to classes will be like every other year. But, as she quickly learns, she missed a lot while she was gone during the break. Not only are her friends attending parties Summer never thought she would go to, they have new friends Summer has no interest in getting to know. Sitting at the top of the list of people Summer doesn't care to spend time with, is none other than Nick. But, after a chance encounter at a party, Summer soon learns that Nick is trying to make a big change. Hearing him talk about trying to study more, avoid partying, and even ignoring the constant rumors about his recent breakup with yet another popular cheerleader, has Summer conflicted. It sounds like Nick is trying to make a new name for himself, but is it really that simple? Can he really turn over a new leaf and show Summer he’s someone worth spending time with? Is Summer willing to risk it all to find out if Nick has really changed?
STAGE LIGHTS: Tessa has always been confident. Some even say too confident. But that comes with knowing what you want, and always getting it. Show after show what she wanted was the lead role on the stage, and that was exactly what she got. But as her senior year of high school approaches, Tessa is looking for something bigger and better. So, when Tessa is cast in a college level theater production of Romeo and Juliet, she knows just what she wants. Anthony, a college junior and the hottest guy Tessa has ever seen, is cast as Romeo opposite Tessa’s Juliet. The casting is perfect in Tessa’s eyes, and she is certain her time on stage will only speed up things off stage. Going after what she wants like always, can Tessa land her leading man? With her sights set firmly on Anthony, can Tessa find true love under the stage lights.
Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2014
7 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Dana Burkey
29 books220 followersDana Burkey is a self-published author living in Bellingham, Washington. She has been enjoying her time in the Pacific North-West since 2009, making her move there after graduating from Youngstown State University in Ohio. She began self-publishing young adult fiction in August of 2014, and is most known for her TNT Force Cheer Series. Currently Burkey is enjoying performing improv, creating stories, and looking for life's next adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 3, 2014
3.5 stars !
*Dana Burke was kind enough to give me this really awesome book in exchange for a review*
This book contains 3 novellas, I mean 3 really cute novellas.
Each story had a beautiful plot and a great combination of love , friendship and fun! Each story was linked to one another in such a subtle yet perfect way ,and i thought it was a terrific job by the author. This book definitely made me smile and 'awww..'
Well I guess everything has its negatives and so does this book. What I would have liked to see, was more details on the characters, like their likes and dislikes, their background and family etc. I found it very hard to connect with the characters due to this. I would have also liked it better if there had been a little more details relating to the chemistry between the characters, just to get a better look and feel of it. This kinda made my excitement to the little happily ever after lesser.
There were a lot of typos, and other editing errors but I really really don't care because I think Dana did a wonderful job with self editing her book. So it didn't bother me that much and I did not consider this in my rating of the book.
I think this book will be adored among the younger readers (pre- teens maybe) but nevertheless I enjoyed the pleasant flow of each story. This is a very light read and not recommended for those looking for something strong and detailed or for major plot twists and all that sort of stuff.
Congratulations on a wonderful book Dana. Hope to see more of your works.
*Dana Burke was kind enough to give me this really awesome book in exchange for a review*
This book contains 3 novellas, I mean 3 really cute novellas.
Each story had a beautiful plot and a great combination of love , friendship and fun! Each story was linked to one another in such a subtle yet perfect way ,and i thought it was a terrific job by the author. This book definitely made me smile and 'awww..'
Well I guess everything has its negatives and so does this book. What I would have liked to see, was more details on the characters, like their likes and dislikes, their background and family etc. I found it very hard to connect with the characters due to this. I would have also liked it better if there had been a little more details relating to the chemistry between the characters, just to get a better look and feel of it. This kinda made my excitement to the little happily ever after lesser.
There were a lot of typos, and other editing errors but I really really don't care because I think Dana did a wonderful job with self editing her book. So it didn't bother me that much and I did not consider this in my rating of the book.
I think this book will be adored among the younger readers (pre- teens maybe) but nevertheless I enjoyed the pleasant flow of each story. This is a very light read and not recommended for those looking for something strong and detailed or for major plot twists and all that sort of stuff.
Congratulations on a wonderful book Dana. Hope to see more of your works.
August 24, 2015
I received this book from the author, Dana Burkey, in exchange of an honest review. Heart to Follow contains three novellas and I have to say they were cute and highly enjoyable. They were very fast-paced, as novellas normally are, and I honestly had a terrific time reading them. Oh, the three novellas are connected, which I didn't know at the beginning but I loved it anyhow =)
Just Pretending, the first novella was about Cam, a girl who has had a crush on Nick for over a year because they spent a whole summer together hanging out. But then, he's back with his girlfriend and Josh, Cam's friend, makes a plan to get the two together.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Changed?, the second novella was about a girl named Summer and how she struggled with friends and emotions during her school year. I can really tell more without spoiling a bit. So yeah! I enjoy this one a bit more than I did Just Pretending. I loved Summer because she always made the right decision and she was always true to herself.
Rating: 4 stars
Stage Lights, the last and third novella focused on Tessa, one of Summer's friends, and this one surprised me greatly. It's true the previous stories were a bit predictable and I thought this one was gonna be as well but no! It didn't end the way I thought it would and I'm happy than Dana Burkey surprised me. Also, as the title says this is focused a bit on the theater and Shakespeare. What can go wrong?
Rating: 4 stars
The overall rating is 3.8 stars but I'm just upgrading it to 4 stars because I had a blast reading them. They were short, they were fluffy and I highly recommend them to anyone who likes contemporary novels or just simply wanna read something which is at the same time short and really nice. And again, thank you to Dana for letting me read her novellas.
Just Pretending, the first novella was about Cam, a girl who has had a crush on Nick for over a year because they spent a whole summer together hanging out. But then, he's back with his girlfriend and Josh, Cam's friend, makes a plan to get the two together.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Changed?, the second novella was about a girl named Summer and how she struggled with friends and emotions during her school year. I can really tell more without spoiling a bit. So yeah! I enjoy this one a bit more than I did Just Pretending. I loved Summer because she always made the right decision and she was always true to herself.
Rating: 4 stars
Stage Lights, the last and third novella focused on Tessa, one of Summer's friends, and this one surprised me greatly. It's true the previous stories were a bit predictable and I thought this one was gonna be as well but no! It didn't end the way I thought it would and I'm happy than Dana Burkey surprised me. Also, as the title says this is focused a bit on the theater and Shakespeare. What can go wrong?
Rating: 4 stars
The overall rating is 3.8 stars but I'm just upgrading it to 4 stars because I had a blast reading them. They were short, they were fluffy and I highly recommend them to anyone who likes contemporary novels or just simply wanna read something which is at the same time short and really nice. And again, thank you to Dana for letting me read her novellas.
May 15, 2015
This is my first YA novella series and I am so excited to share it with everyone! I am happy to announce that the book has been re-formatted and is now available not just on Kindle, but also in paper form through both Amazon and Barnes and Nobles, and is also available in audio book as well on Audible.com! Check out these two new formats, and also take a moment to post any reviews on Amazon as well! Thanks so much!
September 10, 2015
I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. You can view the original review at Genuine Jenn
I really enjoyed this little YA series on Audiobook. It was a fun listen to during my commute to work. It is made up of 3 short novellas that are geared to preteen/teen girls. The narrator was pretty good and easy to follow along with. There was one character in the first book that was super annoying and the narrator even gave this character that high pitched whinny voice that I can't stand. It was great even though she was hard to handle. haha. The books are clean romance YA/teen type where the main characters are starting to date/have crushes. High school life/drama, first crushes. The first book I have to say would be my favorite of them all as the story is fun with Cam really wanting to date Nick but playing girlfriend to Josh to see if Nick would want Cam. It was super cliche but very cute. I also loved the end.
Book two my next favorite as Summer falls for Nick and we find out more about Nick and what really happened between him and Gina. The books do have an ARC so you would have to read them to know the whole story line. They have characters that are brought into the next. The characters could be more developed but the author does a good job as these are novellas vs longer novels.
I do wish that the audiobook would tell you when you are starting the next book but it just gives a little break between chapters and books. I would listen to another audiobook by this narrator and I would read more from Dana Burkey.
I give this series a 3.5 out of 5 stars as it is a great younger teen series.
I really enjoyed this little YA series on Audiobook. It was a fun listen to during my commute to work. It is made up of 3 short novellas that are geared to preteen/teen girls. The narrator was pretty good and easy to follow along with. There was one character in the first book that was super annoying and the narrator even gave this character that high pitched whinny voice that I can't stand. It was great even though she was hard to handle. haha. The books are clean romance YA/teen type where the main characters are starting to date/have crushes. High school life/drama, first crushes. The first book I have to say would be my favorite of them all as the story is fun with Cam really wanting to date Nick but playing girlfriend to Josh to see if Nick would want Cam. It was super cliche but very cute. I also loved the end.
Book two my next favorite as Summer falls for Nick and we find out more about Nick and what really happened between him and Gina. The books do have an ARC so you would have to read them to know the whole story line. They have characters that are brought into the next. The characters could be more developed but the author does a good job as these are novellas vs longer novels.
I do wish that the audiobook would tell you when you are starting the next book but it just gives a little break between chapters and books. I would listen to another audiobook by this narrator and I would read more from Dana Burkey.
I give this series a 3.5 out of 5 stars as it is a great younger teen series.
June 4, 2015
Best Short Stories This Year! Why is there no 10 star option?
*VERY LONG REVIEW*
I honestly don't know what to say about this book. I mean I loved it and wish I could give it more than five starts.
Just Pretending was just plan awesome. I read it twice because I loved it so much.
Changed? Well it was so very sweet. I loved Nick from Just Pretending and I loved him even more in Changed? The best think I truly got out of Changed? was what Nick said in there online chat: "...just don't listen to what people have to say. If someone has to ask you about it, or feels the need to ask someone else about it, they are not worth your time in the first place." That is the best thing anyone can hear/read. It's an inspirational little quote and I love it. In my opinion that is the best think just high schooler, like myself, can read.
Stage Lights was... well... Different. To me it was more realistic than the other three in a way that it main character did not find her "love". I actually found the ending to be very good. I just loved how Dana Burkey decided to add the aspect of "you can't really fall in love with the first person you see". Stage Lights also has an amazing quote that again, high schoolers, can really take into consideration: "my really life Romeo was out there somewhere, but in the mean time I was just happy my friends found each other."
All in all I loved the book. Dana Burkey is AMAZING author and every teenage girl should read these short stories.
*VERY LONG REVIEW*
I honestly don't know what to say about this book. I mean I loved it and wish I could give it more than five starts.
Just Pretending was just plan awesome. I read it twice because I loved it so much.
Changed? Well it was so very sweet. I loved Nick from Just Pretending and I loved him even more in Changed? The best think I truly got out of Changed? was what Nick said in there online chat: "...just don't listen to what people have to say. If someone has to ask you about it, or feels the need to ask someone else about it, they are not worth your time in the first place." That is the best thing anyone can hear/read. It's an inspirational little quote and I love it. In my opinion that is the best think just high schooler, like myself, can read.
Stage Lights was... well... Different. To me it was more realistic than the other three in a way that it main character did not find her "love". I actually found the ending to be very good. I just loved how Dana Burkey decided to add the aspect of "you can't really fall in love with the first person you see". Stage Lights also has an amazing quote that again, high schoolers, can really take into consideration: "my really life Romeo was out there somewhere, but in the mean time I was just happy my friends found each other."
All in all I loved the book. Dana Burkey is AMAZING author and every teenage girl should read these short stories.
October 20, 2014
(I was sent this by the author for an honest reciew)
I really enjoyed these novella's. there was romance and friendship which is a great combination. I think that people will be able to relate to the characters. The stories are easy to relate to what happens in real life. It will be a set of novellas i will read again and again because i really enjoyed them and loved the stories.
I will be reading more work of the author.
I also liked that the stories intertwined with each other. The characters have a connection by friendship and i felt like i knew the characters by reading their stories.
I really enjoyed these novella's. there was romance and friendship which is a great combination. I think that people will be able to relate to the characters. The stories are easy to relate to what happens in real life. It will be a set of novellas i will read again and again because i really enjoyed them and loved the stories.
I will be reading more work of the author.
I also liked that the stories intertwined with each other. The characters have a connection by friendship and i felt like i knew the characters by reading their stories.
July 12, 2015
3.5
Dana sent me a free copy for an honest review.
These stories were sweet, simple teen love stories. They were very short, so there's always that feeling that there could have been a little more to the story. Even while being so short, they managed to show all the drama that can come with being a teenage, and give you characters to love and love to hate. And there was even a twist that jumped out of nowhere too.
There are a few editing misses, but small scale compared to some that are out there. I can easily see myself returning for another read when I just need to chill out.
Dana sent me a free copy for an honest review.
These stories were sweet, simple teen love stories. They were very short, so there's always that feeling that there could have been a little more to the story. Even while being so short, they managed to show all the drama that can come with being a teenage, and give you characters to love and love to hate. And there was even a twist that jumped out of nowhere too.
There are a few editing misses, but small scale compared to some that are out there. I can easily see myself returning for another read when I just need to chill out.
December 12, 2014
Original review posted here:
3.5 Rating
http://fangirlavue.blogspot.com/2014/12/hearts-to-follow-by-dana-burkey-mini.html
First and foremost, I want to give a special thanks to Ms.Dana Burkey for sending me a signed copy of her novella series! Now down to business . . .
Just Pretending
The first story in this novella series follows a young girl named Cam. Over the summer she had a crush on her next door neighbor Nick, who was only in town for the season at his dad's. When the summer came to an end, Nick went back home to his mother's to attend school, and just a month after was in a relationship. This broke Cam's heart, being that she felt their feelings for each other were "mutual". A school year ends, summer begins, and Nick is back in town . . . with his girlfriend. So to get back at Nick and give him what I call " a taste of his own medicine, " Cam's good friend Josh pretends to be her boyfriend to make Nick jealous, in hopes that he would break up with his girlfriend and pursue Cam. With their plan in full effect, and receiving the results they were hoping for, Josh and Cam eventually build their own feelings for one another. Are Cam's feelings mutual this time around with Josh? If so, what about Nick?
Well, I must say that Just Pretending was my least favorite of the three novellas. The main character Cam was indeed in high school, but lord did she read as someone in the 5th grade. I didn't relate to her at all, and felt annoyed with her for 95% of the time. Alot of her actions were a bit childish, but on the other hand it made the story so cute. I just wanted to pinch her cheeks, and tell her how adorably irritating she was. I don't know if that's a good or bad thing.
I will say, that I loved me some Josh. He was so freaking sweet. Ugh, I couldn't get enough of him. I did feel like he was a bit over-dramatic in some situations, but hey, he didn't want Nick to have his bae! I get it boo, I get ya.
Nick wasn't as douchey as I thought he would be. (Hehehe, douchey. I'm learning new words guys!) I thought he was going to be a complete a-hole, but was surprised to see a totally different side to him in the next novella.
Changed?
In this story the title is very fitting. As I just mentioned, Nick made a complete 360 this time around, and it all started with Summer. Or shall I say " The season girl". (If you've read this book then you will definitely get that. I was cracking up for 5 minutes straight when I read it lol)
Anywho, Summer encounters Nick at a party. It isn't really her scene, but being dragged there by her friends who are trying to make their way into the "In" crowd, she is forced to tag along. Not into drinking, or indulging in other wild & crazy teenage activities, Summer parts ways from her friends to find a quiet room. There she is accompanied by a drunk Nick, who has also embarked on the quest to find a vacant room away from his friends. Having been kicked off the baseball team for poor grades, deemed as a cheater on two of his girlfriends, and who drinks like a frat boy with his popular crowd of friends, Summer knows he isn't someone she should be friends with. Or is he?
After helping him during his drunken state at the party, Nick and Summer build a friendship. They meet up at games, text late at night, message each other on their computers when homework should be done . . . you pretty much get the point. They've grown extremely close, but Summer isn't ready to share him with the world, let alone her judgmental friends. Is Nick the guy everyone paints him out to be, or was his childish ways just a facade of the charming boy he really is?
First of all, Changed was my favorite of all three novellas. I loved Summer as our main character. She was a shy girl who had a huge passion for theater, who was also very mature for her age. With a great head on her shoulders, she wasn't really into partying and things of that nature. Instead, you could find her in the library, studying scripts for an upcoming role. Nick is my second reason for loving this story. He was a completely different guy from his appearance in Just Pretending, and when I say different, I mean different. Before he was incredibly childish and arrogant, but after meeting Summer, you begin to witness his facade slowly dissolving as he realized how much she meant to him.
Their chemistry was very realistic, and I appreciated the fact that even though Summer had a huge crush on Nick for years prior to their friendship, when he announced he wanted to take things a step further, she didn't accept. Instead she wanted to focus on theater, and asked for some time until they became anything more.
The ending to this novella had me smiling from ear to ear. I'm pretty sure you can guess why.
Stage Lights
In Stage lights we meet Tessa, who had also made a cameo in Changed as a new theater friend of Summer's. Tessa has just landed a big role in her school's play as Juliet, and has an even bigger crush on the college guy playing her Romeo, Anthony. Eventually they begin to hang out, and with her hormones getting the best of her after a party they attended, she kisses him. But things didn't seem to heat up between them as she expected they would. They continued to hang out together, but his brother Ian always seemed to be in attendance. After getting some advice from one of her close friends, Tessa begins to show Ian more attention in hopes of winning his brother over. Probably not the best idea Tess. Things eventually get pretty messy after Tessa FINALLY realizes that it wasn't her dear Romeo that liked her after all.
One of the things I loved about Stage Lights, was that it centered around theater. I participated in a few plays while in school, and this book truly reminded me of my experience. Although I liked Tessa's character overall, certain situations left me feeling a bit irritated. The fact that she was oblivious to very obvious things, (The situation between Anthony, Ian, and herself) will seriously have you thinking, "how old is she again?" I think my problem is when I read a book that's YA, I prefer when the characters are a bit mature. I think I easily relate and better connect with characters that even though in high school, they read as maybe 17 or 18 years old. I always find it a bit difficult to get into YA novels that come across as middle grade.
All in all these novellas were very cute stories. Being only 100 or so pages, it's a super quick read, which can be read in between other heavier material. If you're a lover of Young Adult contemporaries and romance stories, then the Hearts to Follow series is for you!
3.5 Rating
http://fangirlavue.blogspot.com/2014/12/hearts-to-follow-by-dana-burkey-mini.html
First and foremost, I want to give a special thanks to Ms.Dana Burkey for sending me a signed copy of her novella series! Now down to business . . .
Just Pretending
The first story in this novella series follows a young girl named Cam. Over the summer she had a crush on her next door neighbor Nick, who was only in town for the season at his dad's. When the summer came to an end, Nick went back home to his mother's to attend school, and just a month after was in a relationship. This broke Cam's heart, being that she felt their feelings for each other were "mutual". A school year ends, summer begins, and Nick is back in town . . . with his girlfriend. So to get back at Nick and give him what I call " a taste of his own medicine, " Cam's good friend Josh pretends to be her boyfriend to make Nick jealous, in hopes that he would break up with his girlfriend and pursue Cam. With their plan in full effect, and receiving the results they were hoping for, Josh and Cam eventually build their own feelings for one another. Are Cam's feelings mutual this time around with Josh? If so, what about Nick?
Well, I must say that Just Pretending was my least favorite of the three novellas. The main character Cam was indeed in high school, but lord did she read as someone in the 5th grade. I didn't relate to her at all, and felt annoyed with her for 95% of the time. Alot of her actions were a bit childish, but on the other hand it made the story so cute. I just wanted to pinch her cheeks, and tell her how adorably irritating she was. I don't know if that's a good or bad thing.
I will say, that I loved me some Josh. He was so freaking sweet. Ugh, I couldn't get enough of him. I did feel like he was a bit over-dramatic in some situations, but hey, he didn't want Nick to have his bae! I get it boo, I get ya.
Nick wasn't as douchey as I thought he would be. (Hehehe, douchey. I'm learning new words guys!) I thought he was going to be a complete a-hole, but was surprised to see a totally different side to him in the next novella.
Changed?
In this story the title is very fitting. As I just mentioned, Nick made a complete 360 this time around, and it all started with Summer. Or shall I say " The season girl". (If you've read this book then you will definitely get that. I was cracking up for 5 minutes straight when I read it lol)
Anywho, Summer encounters Nick at a party. It isn't really her scene, but being dragged there by her friends who are trying to make their way into the "In" crowd, she is forced to tag along. Not into drinking, or indulging in other wild & crazy teenage activities, Summer parts ways from her friends to find a quiet room. There she is accompanied by a drunk Nick, who has also embarked on the quest to find a vacant room away from his friends. Having been kicked off the baseball team for poor grades, deemed as a cheater on two of his girlfriends, and who drinks like a frat boy with his popular crowd of friends, Summer knows he isn't someone she should be friends with. Or is he?
After helping him during his drunken state at the party, Nick and Summer build a friendship. They meet up at games, text late at night, message each other on their computers when homework should be done . . . you pretty much get the point. They've grown extremely close, but Summer isn't ready to share him with the world, let alone her judgmental friends. Is Nick the guy everyone paints him out to be, or was his childish ways just a facade of the charming boy he really is?
First of all, Changed was my favorite of all three novellas. I loved Summer as our main character. She was a shy girl who had a huge passion for theater, who was also very mature for her age. With a great head on her shoulders, she wasn't really into partying and things of that nature. Instead, you could find her in the library, studying scripts for an upcoming role. Nick is my second reason for loving this story. He was a completely different guy from his appearance in Just Pretending, and when I say different, I mean different. Before he was incredibly childish and arrogant, but after meeting Summer, you begin to witness his facade slowly dissolving as he realized how much she meant to him.
Their chemistry was very realistic, and I appreciated the fact that even though Summer had a huge crush on Nick for years prior to their friendship, when he announced he wanted to take things a step further, she didn't accept. Instead she wanted to focus on theater, and asked for some time until they became anything more.
The ending to this novella had me smiling from ear to ear. I'm pretty sure you can guess why.
Stage Lights
In Stage lights we meet Tessa, who had also made a cameo in Changed as a new theater friend of Summer's. Tessa has just landed a big role in her school's play as Juliet, and has an even bigger crush on the college guy playing her Romeo, Anthony. Eventually they begin to hang out, and with her hormones getting the best of her after a party they attended, she kisses him. But things didn't seem to heat up between them as she expected they would. They continued to hang out together, but his brother Ian always seemed to be in attendance. After getting some advice from one of her close friends, Tessa begins to show Ian more attention in hopes of winning his brother over. Probably not the best idea Tess. Things eventually get pretty messy after Tessa FINALLY realizes that it wasn't her dear Romeo that liked her after all.
One of the things I loved about Stage Lights, was that it centered around theater. I participated in a few plays while in school, and this book truly reminded me of my experience. Although I liked Tessa's character overall, certain situations left me feeling a bit irritated. The fact that she was oblivious to very obvious things, (The situation between Anthony, Ian, and herself) will seriously have you thinking, "how old is she again?" I think my problem is when I read a book that's YA, I prefer when the characters are a bit mature. I think I easily relate and better connect with characters that even though in high school, they read as maybe 17 or 18 years old. I always find it a bit difficult to get into YA novels that come across as middle grade.
All in all these novellas were very cute stories. Being only 100 or so pages, it's a super quick read, which can be read in between other heavier material. If you're a lover of Young Adult contemporaries and romance stories, then the Hearts to Follow series is for you!
June 19, 2015
First, I got this wonderful series for free from the lovely author Dana Burkey. Thank you so much for giving me the chance to read and review it!
This is my first review, so I apologize if it's not that wonderful.
This series consisted of 3 short stories: "Just Pretending", "Changed?", and "Stage Lights".
The first story follows Cam as she runs into the boy she had a crush on last summer, who then left her without a word at the end and who got into a relationship about a month after returning to live with his mom. Cam's friend Josh comes up with a plan to try to help her win Nick back from his current girlfriend. Shenanigans ensue, and you find yourself giggling along to the silly antics of these characters.
"Changed" is then about a girl named Summer who is a theatre geek, and definitely not a party go-er. As she's dragged to a party by some friends, she ends up helping Nick, the beautiful guy she's admired from a long-distance because of his bad reputation. After the party she and Nick continue talking, and Summer begins to question how many of the rumors she's heard about him are true. As she learns more about him, truths come out that she didn't expect, leading to a different ending than she originally intended.
Finally, "Stage Lights" is told from the point of view of Tess, one of Summer's theatre friends. She finally landed her dream role as Juliet, and the seemingly perfect guy is Romeo, and he seems interested in her! As she forms a closer bond with her Romeo, she makes new friends as well, ending up with some of the most unlikely people.
This was a really cute series of short romances that was perfect for the summer! The characters were relatable enough to catch my attention. I really enjoyed how they all interconnected with each other, each one having a character from the previous one in them. Personally, my favorite character was Summer.
Things that could be improved:
There was an instance when Nick gave Summer his sweatshirt and it was stated as his "basketball" jacket instead of his "baseball". Just a minor thing :)
I found it a little confusing that the second book switched tenses. At first it was from a first person point of view, then it switched to a third person, and then back to a first person. I understood it just as well, but it kind of threw me off a bit.
This is my first review, so I apologize if it's not that wonderful.
This series consisted of 3 short stories: "Just Pretending", "Changed?", and "Stage Lights".
The first story follows Cam as she runs into the boy she had a crush on last summer, who then left her without a word at the end and who got into a relationship about a month after returning to live with his mom. Cam's friend Josh comes up with a plan to try to help her win Nick back from his current girlfriend. Shenanigans ensue, and you find yourself giggling along to the silly antics of these characters.
"Changed" is then about a girl named Summer who is a theatre geek, and definitely not a party go-er. As she's dragged to a party by some friends, she ends up helping Nick, the beautiful guy she's admired from a long-distance because of his bad reputation. After the party she and Nick continue talking, and Summer begins to question how many of the rumors she's heard about him are true. As she learns more about him, truths come out that she didn't expect, leading to a different ending than she originally intended.
Finally, "Stage Lights" is told from the point of view of Tess, one of Summer's theatre friends. She finally landed her dream role as Juliet, and the seemingly perfect guy is Romeo, and he seems interested in her! As she forms a closer bond with her Romeo, she makes new friends as well, ending up with some of the most unlikely people.
This was a really cute series of short romances that was perfect for the summer! The characters were relatable enough to catch my attention. I really enjoyed how they all interconnected with each other, each one having a character from the previous one in them. Personally, my favorite character was Summer.
Things that could be improved:
There was an instance when Nick gave Summer his sweatshirt and it was stated as his "basketball" jacket instead of his "baseball". Just a minor thing :)
I found it a little confusing that the second book switched tenses. At first it was from a first person point of view, then it switched to a third person, and then back to a first person. I understood it just as well, but it kind of threw me off a bit.
February 3, 2017
As said in the book description, this book has three different stories that can be a stand-alones but all of them are connected due to the characters' relationships.
Let me start with Just Pretending . This story opens up during the summer. My first thought of this story was 'cliche.' And as it turns out it was. If you read the book description, I'm quite sure that you'll think of it too. I do like the progress of the story being slow and steady. I did wonder what the ending of the story was so I guess it's not as cliche as it is.
The second story, Changed? was actually a good story too. It's one of those bad-boys-turned-nice-guy stories, so I guess I can also consider this as cliche also. I think it's not that much though. It's more of a nice-guy-turned-bad-then-good-again. The thing that I think that lacks is the 'changing' part. But there is a reason for that though. We had the point of view of Summer, so we have no idea how Nick changed. I just thought it would be great if we can see how Nick would change... Other than those, the flow of the events would still want you to read more. So, it's definitely a good one.
Finally, the last story, Stage Lights just took me off guard! If the first two were quite cliches this one didn't end on how I thought it would end. This story had a really good flow of story, more drama than the other two, and I find it more compelling. I love the ending and this gives us a lesson on life (but it's the type of life lesson we already know). The characters and the way they do things make you confused, which is a good thing because people's actions are confusing. And that is definitely the reason why it became such a good story.
Overall, the book is okay. They are short stories but I do wish there were more details. The book is well written and the characters are the type of people I would hang out with if I were still in high school, so I can definitely relate.
I congratulate the author, Dana Burkey, for a good book. I also want to thank her for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I wish her the best on more books, theaters, scripts and dramas to come.
Let me start with Just Pretending . This story opens up during the summer. My first thought of this story was 'cliche.' And as it turns out it was. If you read the book description, I'm quite sure that you'll think of it too. I do like the progress of the story being slow and steady. I did wonder what the ending of the story was so I guess it's not as cliche as it is.
The second story, Changed? was actually a good story too. It's one of those bad-boys-turned-nice-guy stories, so I guess I can also consider this as cliche also. I think it's not that much though. It's more of a nice-guy-turned-bad-then-good-again. The thing that I think that lacks is the 'changing' part. But there is a reason for that though. We had the point of view of Summer, so we have no idea how Nick changed. I just thought it would be great if we can see how Nick would change... Other than those, the flow of the events would still want you to read more. So, it's definitely a good one.
Finally, the last story, Stage Lights just took me off guard! If the first two were quite cliches this one didn't end on how I thought it would end. This story had a really good flow of story, more drama than the other two, and I find it more compelling. I love the ending and this gives us a lesson on life (but it's the type of life lesson we already know). The characters and the way they do things make you confused, which is a good thing because people's actions are confusing. And that is definitely the reason why it became such a good story.
Overall, the book is okay. They are short stories but I do wish there were more details. The book is well written and the characters are the type of people I would hang out with if I were still in high school, so I can definitely relate.
I congratulate the author, Dana Burkey, for a good book. I also want to thank her for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I wish her the best on more books, theaters, scripts and dramas to come.
May 15, 2015
I got this book from the author in change for my honest opinion.
*WARNING, CONTAINS SPOILERS*
The three novels this book contains are normal, easy to read, teenage love storys that are perfect to curl up to in front of the fireplace or one late summer night.
In the first book, Just Pretending, we meet Cam, a 16 year old girl crushing on her summer neighbor Nick. And Josh, her best friend. It is a simple and sweet love story with some love-triangle seasoning and jealousy sprinkles on top.
The second book, Changed?, features a heartbroken Nick but is written through the eyes of the theater loving Summer, who is not locking for love but finds it anyway.
Last but not least, in Stage Light we meet Tessa, Summers friend from the school play she stared in. Tessa is cast as Juliet and would love for Romeo to be hers in real life.
All three books are captivating and keeps the reader wanting to know more. I read the books in one go without putting them down once. But even though they are the perfect length to read in one go, I feel they could be longer and with more intrigue.
I Just Pretending I missed the middle of the summer. I would have liked more sidestepping from the plot and more twists. Another thing that caught my eye were several sentences with missing words or "auto corrected" words that ended up being the wrong once or grammatically incorrect.
But everyone has there own vision and the plots are very well thought through. I loved reading these and are so very thankful that I had the opertunity to do so.
............................................................................................................................................................................
A while back the author sent me a new edited copy of the book and now it has much more flow to it. The spelling mistakes and "auto corrects" are no more and the book has more depth. Like last time I could not stop reading.
If you havn't yet, be sure to get a copy for the summer!
*WARNING, CONTAINS SPOILERS*
The three novels this book contains are normal, easy to read, teenage love storys that are perfect to curl up to in front of the fireplace or one late summer night.
In the first book, Just Pretending, we meet Cam, a 16 year old girl crushing on her summer neighbor Nick. And Josh, her best friend. It is a simple and sweet love story with some love-triangle seasoning and jealousy sprinkles on top.
The second book, Changed?, features a heartbroken Nick but is written through the eyes of the theater loving Summer, who is not locking for love but finds it anyway.
Last but not least, in Stage Light we meet Tessa, Summers friend from the school play she stared in. Tessa is cast as Juliet and would love for Romeo to be hers in real life.
All three books are captivating and keeps the reader wanting to know more. I read the books in one go without putting them down once. But even though they are the perfect length to read in one go, I feel they could be longer and with more intrigue.
I Just Pretending I missed the middle of the summer. I would have liked more sidestepping from the plot and more twists. Another thing that caught my eye were several sentences with missing words or "auto corrected" words that ended up being the wrong once or grammatically incorrect.
But everyone has there own vision and the plots are very well thought through. I loved reading these and are so very thankful that I had the opertunity to do so.
............................................................................................................................................................................
A while back the author sent me a new edited copy of the book and now it has much more flow to it. The spelling mistakes and "auto corrects" are no more and the book has more depth. Like last time I could not stop reading.
If you havn't yet, be sure to get a copy for the summer!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2015
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review (Never Too Old For Y.A. Books).
JUST PRETENDING
This was a nice read. The story was cute. A little rushed and too short but cute. I just didn't have time to warm up that it already ended. I wanted to feel how Cam fell in love with Josh.
I liked Cam and Josh. Josh was actually really cute.
Nick was a big jerk. Didn't like him at all.
The ending was cute.
3 stars for Just Pretending.
CHANGED?
Mmm... I don't know how I feel about this... I actually spent 1/3 of the story not liking or trusting Nick cause of how he behaved in Just Pretending. But I guess I came to like him a tiny bit better in the end. Summer.... she was nice but at times a little boring.
The story was nice and the ending kinda cute but I didn't like it as much as Just Pretending.
2.5 stars for Changed?
STAGE LIGHTS
This is probably the story I liked less.
Firstly, the story was weird and the ending...unusual.
Secondly, I didn't like Anthony one bit. I mean, if she kisses you and you're not interested, just freaking say so! You can't think she'd get a clue just because you "put some distance" after that night. I don't wanna give away too much and spoil the fun for everyone else, but damn, he got a damn girlfriend and he kissed Tess back even though he wasn't interested and he didn't tell her he had a girlfriend. He is the only one to blame.
Ian was really cute. A real sweetheart. And I actually hoped they ended up together. Guess it wasn't fate.
Tess seemed a little immature but then, all of them were, at least a little.
I really don't know how to rate this.
2 stars doesn't seem right, but then 2.5 is same rating of Changed? and it actually was a tiny bit better than Stage Lights. Guess it's gonna be 2.25 stars.
My final rating for the whole work is 2.75 stars.
JUST PRETENDING
This was a nice read. The story was cute. A little rushed and too short but cute. I just didn't have time to warm up that it already ended. I wanted to feel how Cam fell in love with Josh.
I liked Cam and Josh. Josh was actually really cute.
Nick was a big jerk. Didn't like him at all.
The ending was cute.
3 stars for Just Pretending.
CHANGED?
Mmm... I don't know how I feel about this... I actually spent 1/3 of the story not liking or trusting Nick cause of how he behaved in Just Pretending. But I guess I came to like him a tiny bit better in the end. Summer.... she was nice but at times a little boring.
The story was nice and the ending kinda cute but I didn't like it as much as Just Pretending.
2.5 stars for Changed?
STAGE LIGHTS
This is probably the story I liked less.
Firstly, the story was weird and the ending...unusual.
Secondly, I didn't like Anthony one bit. I mean, if she kisses you and you're not interested, just freaking say so! You can't think she'd get a clue just because you "put some distance" after that night. I don't wanna give away too much and spoil the fun for everyone else, but damn, he got a damn girlfriend and he kissed Tess back even though he wasn't interested and he didn't tell her he had a girlfriend. He is the only one to blame.
Ian was really cute. A real sweetheart. And I actually hoped they ended up together. Guess it wasn't fate.
Tess seemed a little immature but then, all of them were, at least a little.
I really don't know how to rate this.
2 stars doesn't seem right, but then 2.5 is same rating of Changed? and it actually was a tiny bit better than Stage Lights. Guess it's gonna be 2.25 stars.
My final rating for the whole work is 2.75 stars.
November 12, 2014
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Hearts to Follow by Dana Burkey is an anthology of her three young-adult short stories that were previously published individually. The titles of the three short stories are: Just Pretending, Changed and Stage Lights. There is some character overlap in each story, but they are not a series or serial. Each could be purchased and read as an individual story.
The stories are perfect for mature tweens and young teens (they're chaste). Each is a story of young love--filled with crushes, first kisses and mixed messages. Each story was sweet and quite lovely.
I particularly enjoyed enjoyed Just Pretending where Josh and Cam pretend to be in a relationship to make Nick jealous but end up finding a more promising relationship with each other. I loved Josh's tenderness and devotion to his female friend, Cam.
I thought Stage Lights had a good message about crushes, mixed signals, unrequited love, and hurt feelings. The story reminded me of experiences in high school--mine, friends', and my sons'.
Dana Burkey has definitely painted a realistic picture of life in high school and early college. This chaste look at young love is perfect for teens. I look forward to following Dana Burkey's writing career.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng **
Hearts to Follow by Dana Burkey is an anthology of her three young-adult short stories that were previously published individually. The titles of the three short stories are: Just Pretending, Changed and Stage Lights. There is some character overlap in each story, but they are not a series or serial. Each could be purchased and read as an individual story.
The stories are perfect for mature tweens and young teens (they're chaste). Each is a story of young love--filled with crushes, first kisses and mixed messages. Each story was sweet and quite lovely.
I particularly enjoyed enjoyed Just Pretending where Josh and Cam pretend to be in a relationship to make Nick jealous but end up finding a more promising relationship with each other. I loved Josh's tenderness and devotion to his female friend, Cam.
I thought Stage Lights had a good message about crushes, mixed signals, unrequited love, and hurt feelings. The story reminded me of experiences in high school--mine, friends', and my sons'.
Dana Burkey has definitely painted a realistic picture of life in high school and early college. This chaste look at young love is perfect for teens. I look forward to following Dana Burkey's writing career.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng **
September 26, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading the hearts to follow series. It was a quick, light read (about 120 pages total) made up of three different stories. Some of the characters in each novella overlap and you got to see their development over the course of the different stories, which I really enjoyed.
The re-emergence of Nick from Just Pretending in Changed? showed a different side of him, furthering his development as a character and building on the story in Just Pretending. I wish that the same kind of overlap occurred between Changed? and Stage Lights - but Summer's reappearance in the final story was only a minimal link to the prior novella. Each story stands on its own, but Stage Lights felt almost like it didn't belong packaged with the other 2. That didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of three really cute love stories - it was just a little surprising after the connection between the first two.
I really enjoyed reading the hearts to follow series. It was a quick, light read (about 120 pages total) made up of three different stories. Some of the characters in each novella overlap and you got to see their development over the course of the different stories, which I really enjoyed.
The re-emergence of Nick from Just Pretending in Changed? showed a different side of him, furthering his development as a character and building on the story in Just Pretending. I wish that the same kind of overlap occurred between Changed? and Stage Lights - but Summer's reappearance in the final story was only a minimal link to the prior novella. Each story stands on its own, but Stage Lights felt almost like it didn't belong packaged with the other 2. That didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of three really cute love stories - it was just a little surprising after the connection between the first two.
October 18, 2014
I have recently read a lot of novellas and what I love about this one is that is it different from book to book. It did not feel like a story that the author broke up into a few parts, but rather three short stories that I could sit and read all at once! I enjoyed each of the lead characters, and the narration was different for each person which was really fun. I wanted to keep reading more after each one, but also liked the new story that followed. The editing errors that were here and there in the book were never enough to get in the way of the story, so I did not are too much about it. All in all this was a great read!!!!
April 5, 2015
I actually want to give this book 4.5 stars, unfortunately goodreads wont let me do that. It combines all three short stories of the Hearts to Follow series by Dana Burkey, with each story as good as the other. The first book has to be my favourite, I'm not sure why though. The main characters in story 1 and 3 were a bit oblivious to the flirting which irritated me somewhat, but that's just me. I like my females intelligent and sarcastic, despite this each character was well thought out and could be related to. A great series, Ms. Burkey has a way with romance. I'm extremely excited to read Big City Farming now!
March 5, 2019
I'm just going to start off by saying that Dana Burkey is an amazing author! I've loved almost every single book she has written and these books were what started me off onto the others. Her books are clean and well-written. Though some can interpret these books being for Middle Grade readers, I think anyone could enjoy these!
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May 23, 2015
A summer love series for teens!!!
I enjoyed this quick read but it never lost my attention. I loved the story line and the characters, can't wait to continue reading this series. If you are looking for a quick read about a summer love this is a great book!!
2nd installment: This book was very cute, quick read, young teen love story. Loved the dynamic story between Summer and Nick and I hope there is more to come some day.
3rd installment: a story about Tess, Anthony, Ian and Jodi. I found myself wanting to read more about Summer and Nick as the beginning but soon fell in love with the next set of characters. Give this cute summer love story a try!!
I enjoyed this quick read but it never lost my attention. I loved the story line and the characters, can't wait to continue reading this series. If you are looking for a quick read about a summer love this is a great book!!
2nd installment: This book was very cute, quick read, young teen love story. Loved the dynamic story between Summer and Nick and I hope there is more to come some day.
3rd installment: a story about Tess, Anthony, Ian and Jodi. I found myself wanting to read more about Summer and Nick as the beginning but soon fell in love with the next set of characters. Give this cute summer love story a try!!
June 25, 2015
I received a copy of the ePub from the Goodreads group Never Too Old for Y.A. & N.A. Books in exchange for an honest review.
Summer romance, high school drama, rumors, and growing pains—life as a young adult. Dana Burkey’s Young Adult Contemporary Romance novellas are truly refreshing reads. The three novellas are cleverly intertwined but can be read as stand alones. The voices and situations of the various characters reflect their age and maturity. The novellas are character driven. The relationships are realistic and relatable. Hearts to Follow is a quick and fast paced page-turner. A light afternoon read.
Summer romance, high school drama, rumors, and growing pains—life as a young adult. Dana Burkey’s Young Adult Contemporary Romance novellas are truly refreshing reads. The three novellas are cleverly intertwined but can be read as stand alones. The voices and situations of the various characters reflect their age and maturity. The novellas are character driven. The relationships are realistic and relatable. Hearts to Follow is a quick and fast paced page-turner. A light afternoon read.
March 11, 2015
I was given this novella,for my honest review.A very intriguing romance story,about cam,summer,and Tessa,sharing there,loves,and loses,and happy times. I really enjoyed this including stage lights.It's a very good story to sit and read,on a rainy,night sitting,by,the,fireplace,and this novella will keep wanting more and more here review for first 2 books http://www.amazon.com/review/R3NN8Z87... Will submit third one when done started stage lights on Mar 10 2015
October 6, 2014
I loved this whole series, and loved to get to know the characters along the way. I also liked that there was a look back at some of the characters later on in the series, so you kind of got to see a peek at how things were going for other people we already got to know. The last book was a big change of pace, but I think it made for a nice contrast for the other stories.
I was given a copy of the series in return for an honest review.
I was given a copy of the series in return for an honest review.
July 27, 2015
Three short stories about romantic games among teens. Nothing sexual or profane. Each story centers on someone using someone else to date either. A romance just to fill time or make someone jealous. Not that these are terrible people, I didn't get these characters were in for more than a short romance.
The Kindle formatting didn't work well. I had some spacing issues. The possessive apostrophe is missing in a few stories.
The stories themselves were well written and enjoyable to read.
The Kindle formatting didn't work well. I had some spacing issues. The possessive apostrophe is missing in a few stories.
The stories themselves were well written and enjoyable to read.
October 22, 2014
I started reading last night and only got three hours of sleep because I couldn't put it down. Three short stories with a lot of emotion. Way to go Dana and keep up the great work. Can't wait to read more.
February 20, 2015
I read this book pretty fast. this is three short stories that all go together. it is very well written
February 15, 2015
Check out my thoughts on by reading them on my blog www.lysbooklist.blogspot.com
November 6, 2023
This book is available on kindle on KU (kindle unlimited), Amazon, and Barnes & noble.📚
BOOK 1: just pretending
This book consists of 3 short story’s. The first 1 “Just pretending” is cute. I feel like even for a short story it moves a little to fast like the 2 main characters 1st kiss there’s no lead up to it and they way the author explains the kiss theres just no *pazaz* no suspense leading up to it. So this short story I give it one star.⭐️
BOOK 2: changed?
The second one “changed?” It’s not that great like I said the first book was fast even for a short story but this one was slow and then SPOILER!! When they had there first kissed I didn’t feel any of the fire works from how the author wrote it. I honestly got bored and went to read another book for a while. But like if you 12 and want to read a romance but then this is probably for you. But me personally didn’t feel any sparks between the two characters. So I give this one one star.⭐️
BOOK 3: stage lights.
The third book I did NOT read. The other two books were to sum it up boring. So I didn’t have much hope if any about the third one. So I don’t rate it any.
THE SERIES: hearts to follow series.
All in all I have the first to books 2 star and didn’t even bother reading the third one so the whole series is giving it one star. ⭐️ I DO NOT RECOMMEND If your looking for a sweet YA romance. It’s more of a romance book for tweens the kiss scenes don’t go into any detail at all they’re just like that was a good kiss. So I DO RECOMMEND if your a tween looking for a romance cause then it’s perfect 👌🏻
BOOK 1: just pretending
This book consists of 3 short story’s. The first 1 “Just pretending” is cute. I feel like even for a short story it moves a little to fast like the 2 main characters 1st kiss there’s no lead up to it and they way the author explains the kiss theres just no *pazaz* no suspense leading up to it. So this short story I give it one star.⭐️
BOOK 2: changed?
The second one “changed?” It’s not that great like I said the first book was fast even for a short story but this one was slow and then SPOILER!! When they had there first kissed I didn’t feel any of the fire works from how the author wrote it. I honestly got bored and went to read another book for a while. But like if you 12 and want to read a romance but then this is probably for you. But me personally didn’t feel any sparks between the two characters. So I give this one one star.⭐️
BOOK 3: stage lights.
The third book I did NOT read. The other two books were to sum it up boring. So I didn’t have much hope if any about the third one. So I don’t rate it any.
THE SERIES: hearts to follow series.
All in all I have the first to books 2 star and didn’t even bother reading the third one so the whole series is giving it one star. ⭐️ I DO NOT RECOMMEND If your looking for a sweet YA romance. It’s more of a romance book for tweens the kiss scenes don’t go into any detail at all they’re just like that was a good kiss. So I DO RECOMMEND if your a tween looking for a romance cause then it’s perfect 👌🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2018
The whole series was perfect! I loved each book more than the last and read them all super fast, even with school staring this last week. I want to read it all over again, and can't wait to read even more Dana Burkey boks!!!! Everyone needs to check her out and read this book and just love it as much as I do!!!!!!!
June 30, 2015
2.5/5 stars for the collection.
I was given the 'Hearts to Follow' series of short stories by the lovely author Dana Burkey as a read-for-review. This in no way affects my review of the series.
These three short stories are sweet, fluffy and focus mainly on Summer romances. I feel as if Burkey aims to portray the unpredictable and naive nature of relationships between teens during their journey into adulthood. Young love prevails in many ways in these stories, which is something I really like about this collection.
The stories did seem a bit immature, as if the characters were in middle school, not high school. If the stories had more description and character development they would have been easier for me to connect with. In particular there could have been a bit more teen angst and a bigger depth of feelings from the characters, which I think everyone can relate to. The writing felt a little rushed and reads like the characters are telling us the facts, not showing us, which was a little disappointing.
Otherwise, I did enjoy the series and I think the characters definitely have a lot of potential. I would be interested in reading more short stories about them. Each short story is linked to each other in some small way which I think is fantastic in tying together a series into one collection.
These stories were very light and easy to read. They had some very positive lessons which I think will benefit young teens if they were to read this series. I would recommend 'Hearts to Follow' to readers aged 9 - 14, but also to any YA or NA reader who would enjoy a quick, fluffy read. Burkey has done a great job with 'Hearts to Follow' and I will gladly read more of her writing.
I have rated the short stories individually below based on my personal preference for the stories.
'Just Pretending' 1.5/5 stars
'Changed?' 2/5 stars
'Stage Lights' 3/5 stars
I was given the 'Hearts to Follow' series of short stories by the lovely author Dana Burkey as a read-for-review. This in no way affects my review of the series.
These three short stories are sweet, fluffy and focus mainly on Summer romances. I feel as if Burkey aims to portray the unpredictable and naive nature of relationships between teens during their journey into adulthood. Young love prevails in many ways in these stories, which is something I really like about this collection.
The stories did seem a bit immature, as if the characters were in middle school, not high school. If the stories had more description and character development they would have been easier for me to connect with. In particular there could have been a bit more teen angst and a bigger depth of feelings from the characters, which I think everyone can relate to. The writing felt a little rushed and reads like the characters are telling us the facts, not showing us, which was a little disappointing.
Otherwise, I did enjoy the series and I think the characters definitely have a lot of potential. I would be interested in reading more short stories about them. Each short story is linked to each other in some small way which I think is fantastic in tying together a series into one collection.
These stories were very light and easy to read. They had some very positive lessons which I think will benefit young teens if they were to read this series. I would recommend 'Hearts to Follow' to readers aged 9 - 14, but also to any YA or NA reader who would enjoy a quick, fluffy read. Burkey has done a great job with 'Hearts to Follow' and I will gladly read more of her writing.
I have rated the short stories individually below based on my personal preference for the stories.
'Just Pretending' 1.5/5 stars
'Changed?' 2/5 stars
'Stage Lights' 3/5 stars
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