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Counting Stars
Love is a luxury for the weak. At least that's what Madison Nottingfield’s father always said. Coming from a long line of old southern money, Madison has come to accept the uncomfortable job of helping her father in his pursuit of wealth and social status. But by the time she turns seventeen, she’s grown weary of being her father’s favorite way to gain power and prestige. After being nominated to one of the few debutante positions in her affluent country club, Madison thinks her life’s about to hit easy street. If she can learn to stand on her own two feet, she wouldn't need to succumb to her father's whims. For once, she can do what she’s always dreamed of doing; she can’t wait to move forward with her secret plans of ditching her ballet slippers to sing at the year-end talent show—the most important event of the entire year. All of Madison’s hard work seems to be falling in to place, until her conniving parents make a demand… So unthinkable So life-shattering So vile …it almost completely stops Madison in her tracks. Would their plans for her future kill the one thing she desperately desires? Refusing her parents’ request would mean losing everything… family, friends, and her pedigree. But, giving in would mean turning her back on the only thing she’s ever truly wanted.
- GenresYoung Adult
274 pages, Paperback
First published April 3, 2016
3 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Jordan Deen
13 books253 followersI'm really outgoing and get teased (a lot) for my knack to make friends anywhere including, but not limited to: the bank, the store, the bathroom, the movies... you get the idea.
A few of my fave things are my son, my yorkie, cupcakes, wine, coffee and (of course) tattoo'd boys.
I'm available on Twitter, Facebook and of course, here on Good Reads.
Go Team #WolfPack!
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 6, 2016
Often I wonder what it would be like to have been born into a wealthy family, but then I read books like Counting Stars and you discover and think how really it isn't all it is cracked up to be and that with having lots of money likewise being on the other end of the scale there are sacrifices that must be made and rules that have to be followed. More often than not there are higher expectations for those who come from wealthy families to be the best at everything and to follow the set of rules made exclusively for them like marrying someone in the same or higher league , wearing the right clothes and following correct ettiquette . In Counting Stars this is a main theme and even more so since this book is set in the South where the world of Debutantes and Junior Leagues and correct manners are huge. Madison comes from a family of money and has spent her life bending to her parent's rules especially when it comes to fratenising with her father's clients children. When the latest of her father's escapades lands Madison with having to hang out with one of the wrong side of the track guys Mickey D aka Rand , Madison is dreading it. Though the more time she spends with him , she actually realises what it is to have fun and have the freedom to finally be herself - and be in a world for even a few minutes where there is no expectations placed upon her. What will happen though when just as she starts to fall for him, the guy whom her family hope for her to marry asks her out ? Will Madison follow family protocol or will she stand up for what she wants especially when it turns out that Liam - the guy she is supposed to marry has a secret as well ? Find out in Counting Stars by Jordan Deen . A book where we discover that no matter what anyone says Love is not a Luxury and that even if we have to push boundaries, we can all experience the true feeling of it.
March 5, 2017
Full review and More can be seen at
http://wp.me/p7bgOg-4l
Received a copy from netgalley for an honest review. Some Spoilers...
This story has so much promise. I really loved the concept, even if the female protagonist is a stuck-up southern debutant snob. It is coming of age story that asks the question: Who do you let dictate your life?
Maddison is the perfect daughter to her parents. As the only child she has every monetary thing money could buy. Big house, new BMW, lives in luxury, but she still has her little secrets. Like her ballet lessons that have evolved to include hip-hop and singing. She has been raised and taught to live by specific social rules. This is her norm: her friends, her attire, who she dates and escorts to events is all dictated to her, but her parents then force her into working on a performance piece with the schools most undesirable. Rand McDaniel’s lives with his older sister and father. He works, goes to school and has a little music gig on the side. At school he keeps to himself, because he is no legacy. No money, no connections, and doesn’t care one way or another about any of that, but now he needs an in. That ‘in’ comes in the form of beautiful, far out of his league Maddison.
The story is told from the POV of Maddison. She is your modern day Cher from Clueless only with a southern style. One of my favorite things about the book is the fact that Maddison enjoys 90’s teen movies. I love that. She is always watching one.
The story is captivating. It was a fast read and has many good parts. I was hoping the ending would have been better, but the overall growth of Maddison from her parent’s-mini-snob to her own young woman was nice.
Good parts:
There writing was okay. It had some mistakes which can be cleaned up (hopefully) by an editor.
I give it a 3 hears. I liked it but it needs more work: more to the ending, more editing, and more story. There was too many gaps and unanswered questions.
August 26, 2017
Not sure how I feel about this one.
I got something so far from what I expected and usually that's a good thing but in this case it just wasn't. I had to put the book down several times it took me weeks to finish it.
I received an e-arc to read and review.
I got something so far from what I expected and usually that's a good thing but in this case it just wasn't. I had to put the book down several times it took me weeks to finish it.
I received an e-arc to read and review.
March 23, 2017
*** Gifted in exchange for my honest review ***
I give this book 2.5 stars out of 5, it was going to be a 3 star, but the author after a slow start/Middle in the last 70% of the book had actually started to get me drawn into the story and it made me continue I wanted to know if Madison would finally stand up for what she wanted... That she would finally stand up and show her parents and the archaic expectations of the "Legacy Clique" BUT when the best part would have come next we got ...
An Epilogue! And a rushed one at that.
Where was the Long awaited competition? or at least a big humongous showdown and her chance to show both sets of parents that this is the 21st Century and not the 15th Century where daughters are chattels and sold off to the highest bidder.
I will state that I was reading an advanced copy which had a few formatting issues and a few sentences that should be looked at. But why no Beta readers or Editor didn't think that this ending should have been fleshed out, that to consider that this ending was OK after such a long drawn out start and middle would be happy with a hastily written epilogue? Maybe the ending has been fleshed out in the final published version? This book has some high ratings and I am not sure if I read the same book as those?
ANY WAY... lets get back to the Review than ranting on about the rushed end. And I will warn you I am going to be blunt, I hate saying anything negative so I will try to be as nice as I can be without compromising my honesty and actual thoughts on the book.
The Blurb states that
Well we can see why Madison has this idea as he is a drunken useless Father, who thinks that his daughter is just something of an object that he can 'pimp' out to get him further up the social ladder or help on a deal... and Madison's mother isn't any better, her mother is the cliched Southern lady who is all about keeping up appearances and her roses than actually showing her daughter any affection.
Well - where I thought that this story would be about a society girl secretly working on getting herself independent and into a college on her actual talent, we did not, in fact there was a distinct lack of world building in Madison's plans for the show and it seems to focus on the boring day to day drivel of social tit for tat and scheming to get a date for a party.
If anything the "Life-Shattering" would be actually having to stay under the thumb of these parents... training their offspring to be carbon copies of themselves and being turned into a stepford wife!
OK Character development -
Madison - the Main Character and the narrative is through her POV. Her character was on a bit of a see-saw, she shows compassion in some aspects then treats the one person who actually shows any care for her at home as a servant - why would you not know your housekeeper had kids?
When we think that she will grow a backbone and do something for herself we are cheated from seeing this growth because the author has decided to give up on the ending and cut to an epilogue.
Rand ( Mickey D) - the person that daddy dearest wants Madison to do the favour for. He is not a Legacy, he is in fact a student at Madison's school on a scholarship. Rand has been the object of Madison and her crew's derision for a number of years, but Madison soon sees that he has grown up into something of a hunk while he has been holding a job and school.
Liam - the other male interest in the story, He is the 'Legacy Catch of the Season' all the 'Debutantes' have their eye on him. Madison is no exception, and she has spent 2 years trying to hook him. He seems very one-dimensional and he blows hot and cold to Madison, and she spends too much time wondering and scheming ideas for him to finally ask her to the Coming out Dance.
Lori - Rand's Sister, we don't get to see much of this character, but one of my favourite passages in the book was when Madison goes to visit her in hospital, and I really wish that the author had spent more time on developing dialogue with Lori and Madison than all the pointless passages on mani-pedis etc.
Tisha - Madisons BFF - she is a legacy but not on the top tier of the social ladder. She has parents that care for her and who are not consumed by climbing the social ladder, I would have liked to have seen some interaction at Tisha's house, to highlight the difference in the home ( well the lack of one) that Madison had in her cold frigid palace, where the roses get more love than the daughter of the house.
Overview -
The book has potential - but I felt as if I read a Beta copy not an advanced copy that will publish this week. I feel the author could have made this book focus more on the obvious lack of love and actual child abuse that she has literally overlooked in her development of this character and story, it seemed to be just be a simple description of a scene when really this could have given this book a bit of focus and food for thought for the intended young readers who the book is pitched for.
Not once did the author highlight that back handing their daughter's face or grabbing her and leaving bruising, causing damage was acceptable.
I see that there are many who have given this book 4 stars but I am sorry I can't agree. It would have been scraping through as a 3 if the ending had been actually there, but its as if the author couldn't find the words to give us the big showdown so she just wrapped it up with the most rushed epilogue I have read to date.
I would Love to see this book given the ending the characters deserved - ALL 3 of the main characters deserved to get to have their say.
And the character that really should have had a voice - Lori, Well she was just a pawn to give credence to this plot, and that was a shame, because if she had been a major part of this book, the story could have been a message about so much more
Drunk driving
Victim Support & Justice
Child Abuse
Child Solicitation
Those 4 categories could have made this book into a book worth reading, unfortunately they were brushed under the carpet and ignored.
I hate writing negative reviews, but I am not going to lie, I said my HONEST review and this is it.
But this is MY Opinion - Check out the previews on Amazon before buying and you may decide that it is something you want to read and enjoy.
I give this book 2.5 stars out of 5, it was going to be a 3 star, but the author after a slow start/Middle in the last 70% of the book had actually started to get me drawn into the story and it made me continue I wanted to know if Madison would finally stand up for what she wanted... That she would finally stand up and show her parents and the archaic expectations of the "Legacy Clique" BUT when the best part would have come next we got ...
An Epilogue! And a rushed one at that.
Where was the Long awaited competition? or at least a big humongous showdown and her chance to show both sets of parents that this is the 21st Century and not the 15th Century where daughters are chattels and sold off to the highest bidder.
I will state that I was reading an advanced copy which had a few formatting issues and a few sentences that should be looked at. But why no Beta readers or Editor didn't think that this ending should have been fleshed out, that to consider that this ending was OK after such a long drawn out start and middle would be happy with a hastily written epilogue? Maybe the ending has been fleshed out in the final published version? This book has some high ratings and I am not sure if I read the same book as those?
ANY WAY... lets get back to the Review than ranting on about the rushed end. And I will warn you I am going to be blunt, I hate saying anything negative so I will try to be as nice as I can be without compromising my honesty and actual thoughts on the book.
The Blurb states that
Love is a luxury for the weak. At least that's what Madison Nottingfield’s father always said.
Well we can see why Madison has this idea as he is a drunken useless Father, who thinks that his daughter is just something of an object that he can 'pimp' out to get him further up the social ladder or help on a deal... and Madison's mother isn't any better, her mother is the cliched Southern lady who is all about keeping up appearances and her roses than actually showing her daughter any affection.
Coming from a long line of old southern money, Madison has come to accept the uncomfortable job of helping her father in his pursuit of wealth and social status. But by the time she turns seventeen, she’s grown weary of being her father’s favorite way to gain power and prestige.well I know that Teenagers in the USA are quite naive ( well they leave school a lot later) compared to the UK, NZ or AU teenagers, but after reading the whole book I feel that the Author could not decide if Madison was going to be a naive Debutante or a Society It girl that used Sex to get favours?
After being nominated to one of the few debutante positions in her affluent country club, Madison thinks her life’s about to hit easy street. If she can learn to stand on her own two feet, she wouldn't need to succumb to her father's whims. For once, she can do what she’s always dreamed of doing; she can’t wait to move forward with her secret plans of ditching her ballet slippers to sing at the year-end talent show—the most important event of the entire year.
All of Madison’s hard work seems to be falling in to place, until her conniving parents make a demand…
So unthinkable
So life-shattering
So vile
…it almost completely stops Madison in her tracks. Would their plans for her future kill the one thing she desperately desires?
Refusing her parents’ request would mean losing everything… family, friends, and her pedigree. But, giving in would mean turning her back on the only thing she’s ever truly wanted.
Well - where I thought that this story would be about a society girl secretly working on getting herself independent and into a college on her actual talent, we did not, in fact there was a distinct lack of world building in Madison's plans for the show and it seems to focus on the boring day to day drivel of social tit for tat and scheming to get a date for a party.
So unthinkableReally - lol this really made me laugh, her fathers demand was actually one of the tamest to be honest, I won't explain in detail because I don't do spoilers but these 3 sentences are quite dramatic - NO he didn't say she had to do anything X-rated - so this really is so over the top its just in the blurb to garner the readers interest.
So life-shattering
So vile
If anything the "Life-Shattering" would be actually having to stay under the thumb of these parents... training their offspring to be carbon copies of themselves and being turned into a stepford wife!
OK Character development -
Madison - the Main Character and the narrative is through her POV. Her character was on a bit of a see-saw, she shows compassion in some aspects then treats the one person who actually shows any care for her at home as a servant - why would you not know your housekeeper had kids?
When we think that she will grow a backbone and do something for herself we are cheated from seeing this growth because the author has decided to give up on the ending and cut to an epilogue.
Rand ( Mickey D) - the person that daddy dearest wants Madison to do the favour for. He is not a Legacy, he is in fact a student at Madison's school on a scholarship. Rand has been the object of Madison and her crew's derision for a number of years, but Madison soon sees that he has grown up into something of a hunk while he has been holding a job and school.
Liam - the other male interest in the story, He is the 'Legacy Catch of the Season' all the 'Debutantes' have their eye on him. Madison is no exception, and she has spent 2 years trying to hook him. He seems very one-dimensional and he blows hot and cold to Madison, and she spends too much time wondering and scheming ideas for him to finally ask her to the Coming out Dance.
Lori - Rand's Sister, we don't get to see much of this character, but one of my favourite passages in the book was when Madison goes to visit her in hospital, and I really wish that the author had spent more time on developing dialogue with Lori and Madison than all the pointless passages on mani-pedis etc.
Tisha - Madisons BFF - she is a legacy but not on the top tier of the social ladder. She has parents that care for her and who are not consumed by climbing the social ladder, I would have liked to have seen some interaction at Tisha's house, to highlight the difference in the home ( well the lack of one) that Madison had in her cold frigid palace, where the roses get more love than the daughter of the house.
Overview -
The book has potential - but I felt as if I read a Beta copy not an advanced copy that will publish this week. I feel the author could have made this book focus more on the obvious lack of love and actual child abuse that she has literally overlooked in her development of this character and story, it seemed to be just be a simple description of a scene when really this could have given this book a bit of focus and food for thought for the intended young readers who the book is pitched for.
Not once did the author highlight that back handing their daughter's face or grabbing her and leaving bruising, causing damage was acceptable.
I see that there are many who have given this book 4 stars but I am sorry I can't agree. It would have been scraping through as a 3 if the ending had been actually there, but its as if the author couldn't find the words to give us the big showdown so she just wrapped it up with the most rushed epilogue I have read to date.
I would Love to see this book given the ending the characters deserved - ALL 3 of the main characters deserved to get to have their say.
And the character that really should have had a voice - Lori, Well she was just a pawn to give credence to this plot, and that was a shame, because if she had been a major part of this book, the story could have been a message about so much more
Drunk driving
Victim Support & Justice
Child Abuse
Child Solicitation
Those 4 categories could have made this book into a book worth reading, unfortunately they were brushed under the carpet and ignored.
I hate writing negative reviews, but I am not going to lie, I said my HONEST review and this is it.
But this is MY Opinion - Check out the previews on Amazon before buying and you may decide that it is something you want to read and enjoy.
May 20, 2018
This book caught my attention. Been on a kick with these type of books lately. This was a very easy read. Easy to get sucked into the story and just keep reading. I don't like to do any kind if reviews that are very in depth and spoil she fun of reading it yourself. I think the author did a great job making this story unique to the type of book it is. The main character, you felt for her and her life even though it may have seemed perfect to everyone else and even her for a long time. I enjoyed this and read it in one day.
***I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, through Reading Deals, and I gave an honest review***
***I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, through Reading Deals, and I gave an honest review***
March 12, 2016
Counting Stars by Jordan Deen
Review by Katy Grant
Born to parents who believed that the end, gain more money and power, justifies the means, Madison Nottingham was a commodity, to be paraded and traded. She was also expected to make an advantageous marriage that would merge two well to-do families. To this end, she was often seen at high society functions on the arm of a young man, whose father was a business associate of hers while, trading sex for favors was simply part of the program. She thought college was her only way out but sometimes life has a few surprises.
Until, her father almost took the life of a young girl in a drunken driving accident, she’d only seen Rand McDaniel as a charity case at school. In an effort to keep from being charged with almost killing Rand’s sister, her father struck up a deal with Mr. McDaniel. Now Rand and Madison would be performing on stage together in a prestigious variety program. She was afraid that to be seen on stage with Rand would not only tarnish her reputation but at the same time ruin her chances of wedded bliss with Liam. Liam, the pretty boy, whose family screamed old money and lots of it. There was also the thought that if Rand wasn’t talented enough this performance could very well put an end to her shot at getting into a good college. But, it was his last chance too.
Rand works for a living in a garage. He needs this opportunity. If the right people could see what he could do, it might possibly mean a scholarship to a college. Even though he isn’t happy about the deal his father made with Nottingham, he will follow through. At first he tries to get Madison to practice their routine. Her answer is to try to buy him off with sex and then off handedly insults him by asking if he even has a talent. Not a good start. In the beginning it’s the fear of her father’s wrath that drives Madison to try to make amends to Rand for her cruel words, but there is something about him that makes Madison to open her eyes to the artificial world she lives in and what real love might have to offer.
Living in this social world is a precarious balancing act for Madison. It is hard enough trying to entice Liam into her web, so he will see her as the perfect choice for a wife. Now she must keep Rand a secret from her friends as long as she can. And what of her wishes for her future? Madison isn’t as hard-nosed as her parents. Going to college would give her the chance for a life out of her parent’s reach where she could make her own decisions about a future very different from theirs. From Kindergarten Tisha, her BFF, has shown that a loving family can make a difference. She is the more down to Earth body, a bit flighty with a touch of practical sense. Her role may leave her slightly on the outskirts of the rich and famous, but she is always there when Madison needs a friend. And while, Tisha’s family is old money, as well, her father is a conscious business man with an endearing love for his family.
It doesn’t take long to realize that in spite her expensive life style Madison is unhappy and wants out. Her parents rarely show her any affection, and are spending her beauty and youth to elevate their own stature and wealth. In some ways the reader can feel sorry for Madison. Her world of wealth feels soulless. In spite of her parent’s wishes otherwise, Madison kept close ties to Tisha, their friendship was an important part of her life. I got the impression that some of the softening of Madison’s character was because she did have someone who truly cared about her. The interaction between the friend helped to show a softer side of Madison’s character leading up to her interactions with Rand and making it easier to like her character.
This tale for older teens and young adults is a quick read, with enough drama and romance, to carry the reader along. But some of the characters are a bit two dimensional. Told from Madison’s point of view we see she isn’t always just a socialite who doesn’t have a care for others. She gives a closer look at her friend, Tisha, a good friend, a confidant and at times someone she envies, for the love of her parents. We see signs that Madison is not always sure of herself either. Liam comes off as a playboy with a pretty face and too much money. We get a bit of Mrs. Nottingham’s life as a trophy wife, who needs to toe the line, but I just couldn’t feel sorry for her. As to Rand we are several chapters into the book and almost at the end before we get most of his story. The author does a creditable job of letting us see him but it is more in bits and pieces. The ending wraps up to quickly with a final situation, that may blindside the reader. It feels chopped off with only a couple of the characters riding off into the sunset. So what happened to the other side kicks? We may never know. If the reader is looking for a quick read with some spice, this in one with which you can pass the time. For a reader’s group looking for something that has some good discussion points and a bit of an open end, this might do very well.
Review by Katy Grant
Born to parents who believed that the end, gain more money and power, justifies the means, Madison Nottingham was a commodity, to be paraded and traded. She was also expected to make an advantageous marriage that would merge two well to-do families. To this end, she was often seen at high society functions on the arm of a young man, whose father was a business associate of hers while, trading sex for favors was simply part of the program. She thought college was her only way out but sometimes life has a few surprises.
Until, her father almost took the life of a young girl in a drunken driving accident, she’d only seen Rand McDaniel as a charity case at school. In an effort to keep from being charged with almost killing Rand’s sister, her father struck up a deal with Mr. McDaniel. Now Rand and Madison would be performing on stage together in a prestigious variety program. She was afraid that to be seen on stage with Rand would not only tarnish her reputation but at the same time ruin her chances of wedded bliss with Liam. Liam, the pretty boy, whose family screamed old money and lots of it. There was also the thought that if Rand wasn’t talented enough this performance could very well put an end to her shot at getting into a good college. But, it was his last chance too.
Rand works for a living in a garage. He needs this opportunity. If the right people could see what he could do, it might possibly mean a scholarship to a college. Even though he isn’t happy about the deal his father made with Nottingham, he will follow through. At first he tries to get Madison to practice their routine. Her answer is to try to buy him off with sex and then off handedly insults him by asking if he even has a talent. Not a good start. In the beginning it’s the fear of her father’s wrath that drives Madison to try to make amends to Rand for her cruel words, but there is something about him that makes Madison to open her eyes to the artificial world she lives in and what real love might have to offer.
Living in this social world is a precarious balancing act for Madison. It is hard enough trying to entice Liam into her web, so he will see her as the perfect choice for a wife. Now she must keep Rand a secret from her friends as long as she can. And what of her wishes for her future? Madison isn’t as hard-nosed as her parents. Going to college would give her the chance for a life out of her parent’s reach where she could make her own decisions about a future very different from theirs. From Kindergarten Tisha, her BFF, has shown that a loving family can make a difference. She is the more down to Earth body, a bit flighty with a touch of practical sense. Her role may leave her slightly on the outskirts of the rich and famous, but she is always there when Madison needs a friend. And while, Tisha’s family is old money, as well, her father is a conscious business man with an endearing love for his family.
It doesn’t take long to realize that in spite her expensive life style Madison is unhappy and wants out. Her parents rarely show her any affection, and are spending her beauty and youth to elevate their own stature and wealth. In some ways the reader can feel sorry for Madison. Her world of wealth feels soulless. In spite of her parent’s wishes otherwise, Madison kept close ties to Tisha, their friendship was an important part of her life. I got the impression that some of the softening of Madison’s character was because she did have someone who truly cared about her. The interaction between the friend helped to show a softer side of Madison’s character leading up to her interactions with Rand and making it easier to like her character.
This tale for older teens and young adults is a quick read, with enough drama and romance, to carry the reader along. But some of the characters are a bit two dimensional. Told from Madison’s point of view we see she isn’t always just a socialite who doesn’t have a care for others. She gives a closer look at her friend, Tisha, a good friend, a confidant and at times someone she envies, for the love of her parents. We see signs that Madison is not always sure of herself either. Liam comes off as a playboy with a pretty face and too much money. We get a bit of Mrs. Nottingham’s life as a trophy wife, who needs to toe the line, but I just couldn’t feel sorry for her. As to Rand we are several chapters into the book and almost at the end before we get most of his story. The author does a creditable job of letting us see him but it is more in bits and pieces. The ending wraps up to quickly with a final situation, that may blindside the reader. It feels chopped off with only a couple of the characters riding off into the sunset. So what happened to the other side kicks? We may never know. If the reader is looking for a quick read with some spice, this in one with which you can pass the time. For a reader’s group looking for something that has some good discussion points and a bit of an open end, this might do very well.
March 20, 2016
Madison Nottingfield seems to lead a carefree, luxurious life – she is beautiful, talented and has all the money she could wish for. What most can’t see is that this perfect lifestyle is maintained at a high cost – obeying her father’s wishes to a T – including going out with anyone she’s told to just so that her father can gain an advantage.
At seventeen, tired of always appeasing her demanding parents Madison hatches a plan that could maybe afford her a measure of freedom from her restrictive life with a planned out future – this year she wants to deviate from her usual routine at the end of the year talent show at her prestigious country club. Instead of being the perfect ballerina everyone expects she’s going to sing her heart out and impress the scouts that will be present at the show.
All her plans seem thwarted when her father needs her help to cover up his latest mistake. This favor could not only endanger her plans but also her social standing. Unfortunately, going against his wishes is not an option – he threatens to take away everything she has become accustomed to if she defies him.
Madison doesn’t know it yet but she is at a turning point in her life – will she play the role expected of her or can she break free and make her own way?
While my first impression of Madison was not too good she grew on me fast. She is understandably jaded because of how her parents treat her and her shallowness can be excused with her upbringing. Being treated like a commodity by your own parents can't be easy which lets me forgive and understand some of her more questionable behavior.
With other characters I would be skeptical that she falls in love so quickly but since she is starved for affection from people in her life and experiences real tenderness for the first time, it's no wonder that she falls quickly for the only guy that seems to genuinely care for her.
The social expectations in this story are very well portrayed and made my heart ache for Madison on many occasions. I was horrified at what her parents put her through and how her mother ran her whole life and invaded her privacy at every turn. Her life wasn’t really her own and she was pushed around like a puppet most of the time. I could really empathize with Madison even though I probably wouldn’t like her in the real world. Her meeting with Rand’s sister was touching and seemed to put her own situation into perspective for her.
Having said that, I expected much more of this book. The premise had real potential that was never realized. The storyline about Madison’s passion for singing was abandoned pretty quickly even though form the blurb I thought it was going to be a major plot point. Liam could have been a much more complex character and even an ally to Madison if his story was explored in more detail sooner in the book. Madison’s best friend was pretty two-dimensional, also. Generally, I expected more dialogue with Rand and more reflection on her social circle and more contrasting between his world and her world. The story had a nice twist at the end but was wrapped up too quickly in a short epilogue without the anticipated showdowns with Madison’s parents or Rand.
So, while entertaining at times, and heartbreaking at others Counting Stars felt unfinished and left me feeling like there was something missing at the end.
______________
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
At seventeen, tired of always appeasing her demanding parents Madison hatches a plan that could maybe afford her a measure of freedom from her restrictive life with a planned out future – this year she wants to deviate from her usual routine at the end of the year talent show at her prestigious country club. Instead of being the perfect ballerina everyone expects she’s going to sing her heart out and impress the scouts that will be present at the show.
All her plans seem thwarted when her father needs her help to cover up his latest mistake. This favor could not only endanger her plans but also her social standing. Unfortunately, going against his wishes is not an option – he threatens to take away everything she has become accustomed to if she defies him.
Madison doesn’t know it yet but she is at a turning point in her life – will she play the role expected of her or can she break free and make her own way?
While my first impression of Madison was not too good she grew on me fast. She is understandably jaded because of how her parents treat her and her shallowness can be excused with her upbringing. Being treated like a commodity by your own parents can't be easy which lets me forgive and understand some of her more questionable behavior.
With other characters I would be skeptical that she falls in love so quickly but since she is starved for affection from people in her life and experiences real tenderness for the first time, it's no wonder that she falls quickly for the only guy that seems to genuinely care for her.
The social expectations in this story are very well portrayed and made my heart ache for Madison on many occasions. I was horrified at what her parents put her through and how her mother ran her whole life and invaded her privacy at every turn. Her life wasn’t really her own and she was pushed around like a puppet most of the time. I could really empathize with Madison even though I probably wouldn’t like her in the real world. Her meeting with Rand’s sister was touching and seemed to put her own situation into perspective for her.
Having said that, I expected much more of this book. The premise had real potential that was never realized. The storyline about Madison’s passion for singing was abandoned pretty quickly even though form the blurb I thought it was going to be a major plot point. Liam could have been a much more complex character and even an ally to Madison if his story was explored in more detail sooner in the book. Madison’s best friend was pretty two-dimensional, also. Generally, I expected more dialogue with Rand and more reflection on her social circle and more contrasting between his world and her world. The story had a nice twist at the end but was wrapped up too quickly in a short epilogue without the anticipated showdowns with Madison’s parents or Rand.
So, while entertaining at times, and heartbreaking at others Counting Stars felt unfinished and left me feeling like there was something missing at the end.
______________
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
April 15, 2016
I was given this book for an honest review.
2 stars
As I try to read young adult books, I try to figure out what would be good for them to read and what is too much. This book had just about everything in it. It had a unique twist, or you could say old fashioned twist to it. When you think back in the day you remember when you had marriages already picked out for your kids. There was a line of heirachy, you couldn't touch this person, they were beneath you and you could only be associated with these types of people. I don't know if it still goes on, but I know that its sad that choices were made for those children and love was never a factor. It was different to see that type of story play out. I think at times it got a little wordy and the story really didn't seem all together there at times, but I did like it to some degree. I felt a little rushed and the characters, I felt, weren't developed enough and there was too much going on in the book that didn't make it seem believable. I really didn't connect with the characters and that is upsetting for me. I really did like background story about the kids trying to get into colleges and how they all wanted to live their dreams. It may just not be my type of book, but it was decent book to read.
There was a lot going on in this book, so I just want to talk about some of the characters. Madison is a strong young lady, her parents have a plan and they fill that is it. Madison wants more from life, but I see what her parents do to her and that façade she builds ends up eating her up. Rand. I liked him he is a commoner. He doesn't care about much but he knows he wants to have a life after high school. Liam. Well hes one of those take it or leave it characters. Hes just there to keep his parents happy. He has to do things he doesn't want to do, but has to do. LIke I said before the characters weren't developed enough for me to give you a decent review.
I don't want to take anything away from the author. The author did a good job, and I really enjoyed the book at times. I just feel this was not my type of book and that I probably would not recommend this book to any other person, but I will give the author another try down the road.
2 stars
As I try to read young adult books, I try to figure out what would be good for them to read and what is too much. This book had just about everything in it. It had a unique twist, or you could say old fashioned twist to it. When you think back in the day you remember when you had marriages already picked out for your kids. There was a line of heirachy, you couldn't touch this person, they were beneath you and you could only be associated with these types of people. I don't know if it still goes on, but I know that its sad that choices were made for those children and love was never a factor. It was different to see that type of story play out. I think at times it got a little wordy and the story really didn't seem all together there at times, but I did like it to some degree. I felt a little rushed and the characters, I felt, weren't developed enough and there was too much going on in the book that didn't make it seem believable. I really didn't connect with the characters and that is upsetting for me. I really did like background story about the kids trying to get into colleges and how they all wanted to live their dreams. It may just not be my type of book, but it was decent book to read.
There was a lot going on in this book, so I just want to talk about some of the characters. Madison is a strong young lady, her parents have a plan and they fill that is it. Madison wants more from life, but I see what her parents do to her and that façade she builds ends up eating her up. Rand. I liked him he is a commoner. He doesn't care about much but he knows he wants to have a life after high school. Liam. Well hes one of those take it or leave it characters. Hes just there to keep his parents happy. He has to do things he doesn't want to do, but has to do. LIke I said before the characters weren't developed enough for me to give you a decent review.
I don't want to take anything away from the author. The author did a good job, and I really enjoyed the book at times. I just feel this was not my type of book and that I probably would not recommend this book to any other person, but I will give the author another try down the road.
April 3, 2016
Counting Stars by Jordan Deen is a very interesting story. Even though I can’t relate to Madison I do understand her. She comes from money and her parents have high expectations on everything she does. She is a ballerina, she has had etiquette classes, and more, everything that someone in their lifestyle does to prepare them to be married off to another family that has just as much money or more, more is better. I found it interesting that Madison had to escort sons of wealthy families for parties and events. Her parents were only interested in finding the right family, being seen with the right people. Because that is what is important in their lifestyle. Madison is pretty much trained to always do what her parents want no matter what and when her Dad forces her into a situation with a guy who is not in her crowed of friends at school, it is really hard on her. She wants to keep up her appearance (she of course is always worried how she looks) and not be seen talking to this guy who is not in her class. Of course something happens to change that.
I will say this was a fun and interesting book to read. I felt it was a quick read and was all in Madison’s POV. She is trying to find herself and has stuff to deal with like most 17 year olds. Part of me wants to say there needed to be more emotional drama but then again, maybe this is how Madison’s drama is. I am thinking that Madison really isn’t capable of more drama in her shelter life. I think that if there was too much drama, it could have just dragged out the story and could have lost interest. I guess what I am saying since it was all in Madison’s POV this book is good. Could have been interesting to have also read from the two guys in the stories their POV but that still didn’t take away from this story. I am giving it 5 stars because I loved reading this book and even though there is was more potential this story still has enough for me to totally enjoy it. I also thought the ending was great.
I want to thank NetGalley and Book Enthusiastic for a copy of this book to review for an honest Opinion. I received a free copy of a book in exchange for an honest review
I will say this was a fun and interesting book to read. I felt it was a quick read and was all in Madison’s POV. She is trying to find herself and has stuff to deal with like most 17 year olds. Part of me wants to say there needed to be more emotional drama but then again, maybe this is how Madison’s drama is. I am thinking that Madison really isn’t capable of more drama in her shelter life. I think that if there was too much drama, it could have just dragged out the story and could have lost interest. I guess what I am saying since it was all in Madison’s POV this book is good. Could have been interesting to have also read from the two guys in the stories their POV but that still didn’t take away from this story. I am giving it 5 stars because I loved reading this book and even though there is was more potential this story still has enough for me to totally enjoy it. I also thought the ending was great.
I want to thank NetGalley and Book Enthusiastic for a copy of this book to review for an honest Opinion. I received a free copy of a book in exchange for an honest review
April 16, 2016
*I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
I was intrigued by the concept of this novel. The description grabbed me and I was looking forward to reading it. The cover art was gorgeous. However, I was disappointed. I was not at all impressed with this book. In many ways, this book had the plotline of a bad teen TV movie. The main character, Maddie, came across to me as shallow, vain, and conceited. It takes a long time for any positive aspects of her character to emerge. Maddie's parents don't appear to care about her beyond what she is able to do to increase their position in society. The two major male characters, Liam and Rand, are pretty much one-dimensional characters. It's pretty obvious from the beginning who Maddie is going to end up with. For such a short novel, it takes a long time to really feel like the novel is really going somewhere, which can be contrasted with the ending feeing rushed. The entire novel talks about this talent show and how important it is, then it is never shown as part of the novel. It shows Maddie getting ready for it the night of, then skips to well after the talent show occurs. This novel spends an inordinate amount of time talking about the characters' bodies. If as much time had been spent on character development as discussing the various aspects of their bodies, this would have been a much better novel. As a whole, this novel needed to be better developed. The plot dragged in the beginning and rushed through the end.
My overall impression: This novel needed more plot development, better character development, and better pacing. I would like to see this author continue to write and develop her craft because the concept was interesting, but the execution was flawed.
I was intrigued by the concept of this novel. The description grabbed me and I was looking forward to reading it. The cover art was gorgeous. However, I was disappointed. I was not at all impressed with this book. In many ways, this book had the plotline of a bad teen TV movie. The main character, Maddie, came across to me as shallow, vain, and conceited. It takes a long time for any positive aspects of her character to emerge. Maddie's parents don't appear to care about her beyond what she is able to do to increase their position in society. The two major male characters, Liam and Rand, are pretty much one-dimensional characters. It's pretty obvious from the beginning who Maddie is going to end up with. For such a short novel, it takes a long time to really feel like the novel is really going somewhere, which can be contrasted with the ending feeing rushed. The entire novel talks about this talent show and how important it is, then it is never shown as part of the novel. It shows Maddie getting ready for it the night of, then skips to well after the talent show occurs. This novel spends an inordinate amount of time talking about the characters' bodies. If as much time had been spent on character development as discussing the various aspects of their bodies, this would have been a much better novel. As a whole, this novel needed to be better developed. The plot dragged in the beginning and rushed through the end.
My overall impression: This novel needed more plot development, better character development, and better pacing. I would like to see this author continue to write and develop her craft because the concept was interesting, but the execution was flawed.
April 3, 2016
A mixture of the movie Clueless and the reality show Southern Charm is the perfect way to describe this book. Wealth, power, expectations and plenty of drama!
Maddison was raised for one thing and one thing only, to keep her family high in society's eye and the money flowing. Ultimately that means finding a suitable, and rich, man to desire her. As much as her southern charm and etiquette is on display in this book, so is her whiny "OMG" valley girl attitude on life. I had to picture her as a puppet and somewhat clueless herself to be able to relate and find her somewhat likeable. Spoon fed "rules" of which high society must love by and that anything else would be popularity suicide.
I had my suspicious throughout the book about Liam and found him one dimensional. The person I related to the most to was Rand. The once shy boy turned into a buff, soft spoken man. His half smiles and gentle touches had my heart doing flips. I wasn't sure what to make of the drama that surrounded him and Maddison, but what I wasn't prepared for was the ending.
Just when things were coming to the light, and what I thought would be Maddison's shining moment, we are brought to an epilogue. I wanted to experience Maddison taking hold of her life and her moment of self reflection and growth. Closure. But I didn't.
Overall, I felt this book was touching at times and certainly had a dramatic flare. An interesting YA read that I recommend to anyone looking for a qlimpse of high society scandal.
4 *WINK* READ
Book Flirts by Jessi
Http://bookflirtsbyjessi.blogspot.com
www.facebook.com/bookflirts
@bookflirtsjessi
Bookflirtsbyjessi@yahoo.com
Maddison was raised for one thing and one thing only, to keep her family high in society's eye and the money flowing. Ultimately that means finding a suitable, and rich, man to desire her. As much as her southern charm and etiquette is on display in this book, so is her whiny "OMG" valley girl attitude on life. I had to picture her as a puppet and somewhat clueless herself to be able to relate and find her somewhat likeable. Spoon fed "rules" of which high society must love by and that anything else would be popularity suicide.
I had my suspicious throughout the book about Liam and found him one dimensional. The person I related to the most to was Rand. The once shy boy turned into a buff, soft spoken man. His half smiles and gentle touches had my heart doing flips. I wasn't sure what to make of the drama that surrounded him and Maddison, but what I wasn't prepared for was the ending.
Just when things were coming to the light, and what I thought would be Maddison's shining moment, we are brought to an epilogue. I wanted to experience Maddison taking hold of her life and her moment of self reflection and growth. Closure. But I didn't.
Overall, I felt this book was touching at times and certainly had a dramatic flare. An interesting YA read that I recommend to anyone looking for a qlimpse of high society scandal.
4 *WINK* READ
Book Flirts by Jessi
Http://bookflirtsbyjessi.blogspot.com
www.facebook.com/bookflirts
@bookflirtsjessi
Bookflirtsbyjessi@yahoo.com
March 20, 2016
I am giving it 4.5 stars
There was some drama but I would have liked to seen more. You have high society girls becoming woman. Their coming out in public and with all the glitz and glamour there should be trouble, drama, maybe cat fights. Well I could wish right?
Maddie is a senior and has been waiting for this day to come since forever. She already knows what she wants to do after high school. Unfortunately her mother and father have other plans. She has been doing her dads bidding forever. She never does anything for herself. Her mother....well her mother I think is an alien LOL!! I wonder if the rich really act like Maddie's mother.
Maddie has fantasized about Liam and trying to get his attention for the last 2 yrs. He finally notices her but is distant. I see why now!
This is more about a rich girl trying to make her way through high school so she can be free of her parents. The one guy she thinks she wants, is lower class. Well sort of. Rand is a godsend! Maddie isn't supposed to go with lower class. Come on people....money is money. You have it or you don't. It doesn't make who you are. Well however in this book it does. You are to do what your parents tell you. If you are to wed a certain person then you do that, even though you might love someone else. I am not sure I could live like that.
Over all it was an OK book. Like I said I would have like to see a little more drama.
There was some drama but I would have liked to seen more. You have high society girls becoming woman. Their coming out in public and with all the glitz and glamour there should be trouble, drama, maybe cat fights. Well I could wish right?
Maddie is a senior and has been waiting for this day to come since forever. She already knows what she wants to do after high school. Unfortunately her mother and father have other plans. She has been doing her dads bidding forever. She never does anything for herself. Her mother....well her mother I think is an alien LOL!! I wonder if the rich really act like Maddie's mother.
Maddie has fantasized about Liam and trying to get his attention for the last 2 yrs. He finally notices her but is distant. I see why now!
This is more about a rich girl trying to make her way through high school so she can be free of her parents. The one guy she thinks she wants, is lower class. Well sort of. Rand is a godsend! Maddie isn't supposed to go with lower class. Come on people....money is money. You have it or you don't. It doesn't make who you are. Well however in this book it does. You are to do what your parents tell you. If you are to wed a certain person then you do that, even though you might love someone else. I am not sure I could live like that.
Over all it was an OK book. Like I said I would have like to see a little more drama.
March 21, 2016
Maddison Nottingham has been raised by cold manipulative parents. Within their rich entitled background, she has been groomed to be barely little more than a tool they use to boost and cultivate their place in their social circle. They control everything about her life. Everything in her life is nothing but appearances and being seen to be with the right people, and marrying the one most suited to their monetary standards. Although Maddison is unhappy and does try to rebel, at 17 almost 18 she is confused and really doesn't know any other way of life.
Her father forces her to become friendly with Rand, and its through this that finally she begins to realize that her life should be so much more, but Rand breaks her heart and her resolve to stand up to her social climbing cold parents. There is a few twists and turns that are predictable and plenty of little twists that aren't.
I Enjoyed this story, although at first i wasn't at all keen on Maddison, i grew to like her a lot. This is a sweet love story, rich girl, poor boy. The way she finally blossomed, and grew, stopped doubting herself and allowed herself to just be and feel things in a real way.
Definitely worth reading !!
Her father forces her to become friendly with Rand, and its through this that finally she begins to realize that her life should be so much more, but Rand breaks her heart and her resolve to stand up to her social climbing cold parents. There is a few twists and turns that are predictable and plenty of little twists that aren't.
I Enjoyed this story, although at first i wasn't at all keen on Maddison, i grew to like her a lot. This is a sweet love story, rich girl, poor boy. The way she finally blossomed, and grew, stopped doubting herself and allowed herself to just be and feel things in a real way.
Definitely worth reading !!
April 24, 2016
Jordan Deen has written a most interesting story which not only shows that money does not buy happiness, but also opens up the sad life of an abused young heiress who must do the unthinkable in order to keep her parents’ wealth increasing. ‘Counting Stars’ is an incredible book; the title refers to the moment Madison’s life changes from one of material wealth to her feeling true love for the very first time. The tale runs at a steady pace from start to finish and the characters are very believable. I questioned several times why Madison would not go to the police when assaulted, but quickly realized that her parents would buy their way out of that situation also. ‘Counting Stars’ is an emotional roller-coaster bringing a tale of love, lust, passion, abuse, corruption and desperation which results in a shocking truth. I look forward to reading this story again and again, and recommend it to readers over 15 years of age who like their tragedy to be touched by intrigue and discovery.
- Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite
- Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite
March 2, 2016
I really wanted to like this book more. I had a lot of love and hate for Madison. On one hand I really disliked her and her snobby, entitled attitude. In the other hand, she really didn't know any other way to be because that's how she was raised so I felt sorry for her in a way. The story actually started going somewhere with her and Rand and I was starting to enjoy it a bit more because Madison was actually starting to think for herself. Just when it was starting to get good, it was suddenly over! The epilogue cleared everything up so we actually knew what happened, but I didn't want to be told, I wanted to be shown. I feel like the very best part of the story was just completely skipped over. I have no idea why the author did that. I wanted to see Madison stand up to her parents and actually be herself for once. If the ending was done differently I would have enjoyed this much more.
*copy received from the publisher via NetGalley exchange for an honest review*
*copy received from the publisher via NetGalley exchange for an honest review*
February 29, 2016
I really liked this book! It was a world so different from my own yet the same in so many ways. While I could tell the story line from the excerpt, there were plenty of details I was not expecting. From the beginning, After just a few minutes with her parents it helped me to really understand Maddie and why she made her decisions the way she did. I don't want to give away too many spoilers so I won't say all of what I would like to. But I will say I was a little disappointed with the end of the story, until I read the epilogue. I just wish there would have been more to the epilogue!
I just wanted MORE!!!
But I wouldn't be happy if they made a sequel, it ended in a perfect way and I don't want to see any more problems for these people!
I just wanted MORE!!!
But I wouldn't be happy if they made a sequel, it ended in a perfect way and I don't want to see any more problems for these people!
March 4, 2016
I’m still trying to decide if I like the main character (Madison Nottingfield), but Counting Stars was a quick and entertaining read.
Maddie is a “legacy”, born to old southern money and her world belongs to her parents. She’s used by her father to provide escorts to his friends sons (or anyone looking for a favor/advancement) and her mother uses her to try and procure a marriage to a ‘older’ family. Everything she looks like, does, says, is directed by her family and her station in life.
Maddie goes along with this until her father demands that she do something unthinkable – something that can break her in every way.
I found it fairly insane to imagine that this happens in real life, but I try to keep an open mind. Maddy does seem to be a good person (you just have to dig deep enough) and the book ends a bit abruptly but again, all in all it was an entertaining read.
Maddie is a “legacy”, born to old southern money and her world belongs to her parents. She’s used by her father to provide escorts to his friends sons (or anyone looking for a favor/advancement) and her mother uses her to try and procure a marriage to a ‘older’ family. Everything she looks like, does, says, is directed by her family and her station in life.
Maddie goes along with this until her father demands that she do something unthinkable – something that can break her in every way.
I found it fairly insane to imagine that this happens in real life, but I try to keep an open mind. Maddy does seem to be a good person (you just have to dig deep enough) and the book ends a bit abruptly but again, all in all it was an entertaining read.
February 8, 2017
**I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review**
This book follows Madison Nottingfield through her world of etiquette, stuffy rules, social engagements, and the tremendously wealthy. The story was entertaining enough, but there we SO many typos that it was distracting.
There were glimpses of so much more depth to the character Madison (and her relationship with her parents) than just the superficial rich girl. I really wish that Jordan Deen had dug into that a bit more.
I was also left wanting just a little more dialogue between the characters.
There was a little twist toward the end of the book that I wasn't expecting, but it feels like the story was just abruptly ended and an epilogue was slapped on to appease some of the curiosity. I would have liked to see first hand more of the immediate fall out the twist was sure to cause.
This book follows Madison Nottingfield through her world of etiquette, stuffy rules, social engagements, and the tremendously wealthy. The story was entertaining enough, but there we SO many typos that it was distracting.
There were glimpses of so much more depth to the character Madison (and her relationship with her parents) than just the superficial rich girl. I really wish that Jordan Deen had dug into that a bit more.
I was also left wanting just a little more dialogue between the characters.
There was a little twist toward the end of the book that I wasn't expecting, but it feels like the story was just abruptly ended and an epilogue was slapped on to appease some of the curiosity. I would have liked to see first hand more of the immediate fall out the twist was sure to cause.
November 13, 2016
First of all, I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, through Reading Deals, so I could give an honest review. I could not relate to the very rich lifestyle of the youth and parents in this book-- it is far from my own midwest farming community life!. However, I have recently learned that some of the events in this book, such as arranged "dates" and "escorting" for business or social standing does really happen. When I first began this book I was concerned that it was going to be a book about physical abuse by parents. As I read the book, it showed a totally different type of abuse--- emotional, neglect. It showed me a lifestyle of the rich and famous, but sad, very shallow and starved. That said, I really enjoyed this book. I would suggest it for an older teen/young adult. It proves that money cannot buy happiness!
March 18, 2016
I received this book as an ARC exchange of an honest review through #30DayReadingIndie
At first it was a bit difficult to continue reading, but as things were developing, the story really got me and I couldn't stop reading until finish this book.
I felt sorry for Madison at various times because of all she had to do to please her insensitive parents, but when Rand appears "ordering" her help for the contest, she finally begins to feel like a real person.
I really enjoyed this story, I just think that in the end it could have developed a little more, because I thought things were very fast.
At first it was a bit difficult to continue reading, but as things were developing, the story really got me and I couldn't stop reading until finish this book.
I felt sorry for Madison at various times because of all she had to do to please her insensitive parents, but when Rand appears "ordering" her help for the contest, she finally begins to feel like a real person.
I really enjoyed this story, I just think that in the end it could have developed a little more, because I thought things were very fast.
April 12, 2016
OKAY, I finally finished Counting Stars.
It was good, it really was- until the end.
It was going GREAT...the story was rolling, it had sparked my attention again!
BUT THEN the author decides to cut the story short...
EXCUSE ME?! You can't condense a book ending like this into a 4 page Epilogue!!!
There should have been at least 6 more chapters to explain what happens at the end!!!
I am not satisfied with this ending...
I'm rattled.
It was good, it really was- until the end.
It was going GREAT...the story was rolling, it had sparked my attention again!
BUT THEN the author decides to cut the story short...
EXCUSE ME?! You can't condense a book ending like this into a 4 page Epilogue!!!
There should have been at least 6 more chapters to explain what happens at the end!!!
I am not satisfied with this ending...
I'm rattled.
March 3, 2016
Loved this coming of age story that straddles the boundaries of Young Adult and New Adult. It was interesting to watch the main character, Madison, change and grow through the course of the book. If you are a fan of the TV series, "Gossip Girl", you will love this book! Plenty of decadence, backstabbing, and high society intrigues to keep the reader engaged. Definitely recommend!
*ARC received from Net Galley in exchange for a honest review *
*ARC received from Net Galley in exchange for a honest review *
April 1, 2016
I'm always apprehensive when I go to read a young adult book, I'm not a young adult but enjoying reading them and I wasn't disappointed with Counting Stars. It's a quick read with drama and romance. I was a little disappointed and wanted more from the characters, sometimes they seemed to fall a little flat. I enjoyed the storyline and getting to know the characters. I think this is a great read for older teens and young adults who are looking for a quick read.
Review by Raychel
Review by Raychel
March 28, 2016
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I feel like I'm alone on this, but I really hated this book. I thought the main character was a brat, and I didn't like any of the other characters any better. I think the blurb did not accurately describe the book, and I felt mislead. I have a full review on my blog: http://mybluebookshelf.blogspot.com/2...
I feel like I'm alone on this, but I really hated this book. I thought the main character was a brat, and I didn't like any of the other characters any better. I think the blurb did not accurately describe the book, and I felt mislead. I have a full review on my blog: http://mybluebookshelf.blogspot.com/2...
April 4, 2016
**** I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for a review.
I really enjoyed this book. It felt like a mix of Clueless and Southern Charm.
I personally would have liked to see a little more drama. This book gives interesting insight into what children with wealthy parents deal with, especially when they are coming of age. Definitely a must read.
I really enjoyed this book. It felt like a mix of Clueless and Southern Charm.
I personally would have liked to see a little more drama. This book gives interesting insight into what children with wealthy parents deal with, especially when they are coming of age. Definitely a must read.
February 28, 2017
i loved how this story unwinds so that you feel the girls world.
October 8, 2016
Just a ok book
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