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Creative HeArts #5
Falling for the Girl Next Door
Sloane Whitaker never expected to like living in Texas, but after a few months in the Lone Star State, she has to admit she likes the food, the school, and the boy next door. What she doesn’t like is the fact that half her family is still back in New York. Convincing her dad to relocate to Texas requires making their upcoming visit as perfect as possible. The perfect dinner, the perfect daughter…with the perfect boyfriend.
But when her not-so-perfect boyfriend Tru Dorsey is suddenly not-so-available, Sloane has to find another dad-impressing guy to show off at dinner. Tru himself suggests enlisting the help of a fake boyfriend, but the reality of another guy with Sloane on his arm might be more than Tru can manage. Add in a mysterious blackmailer and a divided family, and Sloane and Tru’s relationship might not be able to handle the heat.
This Entangled Teen Crush book contains a bad boy next door, the good girl who snags his heart, and one epically disastrous ruse-gone-wrong. Join the fun at your own risk.
But when her not-so-perfect boyfriend Tru Dorsey is suddenly not-so-available, Sloane has to find another dad-impressing guy to show off at dinner. Tru himself suggests enlisting the help of a fake boyfriend, but the reality of another guy with Sloane on his arm might be more than Tru can manage. Add in a mysterious blackmailer and a divided family, and Sloane and Tru’s relationship might not be able to handle the heat.
This Entangled Teen Crush book contains a bad boy next door, the good girl who snags his heart, and one epically disastrous ruse-gone-wrong. Join the fun at your own risk.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2016
13 people are currently reading
571 people want to read
About the author
Tera Lynn Childs
59 books3,095 followersTera Lynn Childs may pretend to be a goddess, but she’s really just a normal person. Well, maybe not normal. She is a writer, after all. Her works include the mythology-based Oh. My. Gods. series, the Forgive My Fins mermaid romance series, the kick-butt monster-hunting Sweet Venom trilogy, and the Darkly Fae fantasy series. Tera currently parks her laptop in the Seattle area and spends her time writing wherever she can find a comfy chair and a steady stream of caffeinated beverages. Learn more about her magical realms and find behind-the-book extras at teralynnchilds.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 3, 2017
(I received an advance copy of this book for free. Thanks to Entangled Publishing, LLC and NetGalley.)
This was a YA contemporary romance, featuring Sloan and Tru from Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru.
Sloan and Tru were both okay characters, and Sloan’s opinion of Texas had changed a lot from the first book. I also thought that Tru was quite brave to admit what he did to Sloan.
The storyline in this was about Sloan having to find a fake boyfriend to try and impress her father at their Christmas eve dinner, as well as Sloan wanting to talk her dad into moving to Texas. Thankfully the fake-boyfriend part of the story didn’t last too long though, as things got a bit silly when Tru got jealous.
The ending to this was okay, and it seemed like things were good between Sloan and Tru again.
6.5 out of 10
This was a YA contemporary romance, featuring Sloan and Tru from Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru.
Sloan and Tru were both okay characters, and Sloan’s opinion of Texas had changed a lot from the first book. I also thought that Tru was quite brave to admit what he did to Sloan.
The storyline in this was about Sloan having to find a fake boyfriend to try and impress her father at their Christmas eve dinner, as well as Sloan wanting to talk her dad into moving to Texas. Thankfully the fake-boyfriend part of the story didn’t last too long though, as things got a bit silly when Tru got jealous.
The ending to this was okay, and it seemed like things were good between Sloan and Tru again.
6.5 out of 10
November 8, 2016
Sloane Whitaker never expected that after she had to move from New York to Texas with her mother that she would find herself feeling at home in her new state. Texas grew on Sloane though, she loved her new school and she especially wanted to stay when she began a relationship with Tru Dorsey, the boy next door. The only problem, half of her family is still in New York and she really misses her brother and father.
Tru has also had his own problems mounting up which has led to him drinking way too much. His father can be very abusive and at an early age Tru found himself beginning to hide in a bottle but now he knows this has become more than a problem and he needs help. Sloane is the only good thing in his life but Tru feels that they need a break so he can become more worthy of her love after getting himself fixed.
Falling for the Girl Next Door is the fifth book in the Creative Hearts series but only the second featuring Sloane and Tru. I had not read the first book featuring this particular couple but I found that it really didn't seem to be totally necessary although there may be a bit more background information given having met the couple before. I have however read a couple others from the series and there are mentions of other previous characters but again, not really necessary to be familiar with them.
I actually enjoyed Sloane and Tru and watching this couple deal with some very tough things in their lives and how they handled them. My one complaint though with this book came at the very end, it just seemed to end rather abruptly and left a lot of things up in the air. It could be possible that this couple will continue on later but I would have enjoyed learning more about their issues in this book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Tru has also had his own problems mounting up which has led to him drinking way too much. His father can be very abusive and at an early age Tru found himself beginning to hide in a bottle but now he knows this has become more than a problem and he needs help. Sloane is the only good thing in his life but Tru feels that they need a break so he can become more worthy of her love after getting himself fixed.
Falling for the Girl Next Door is the fifth book in the Creative Hearts series but only the second featuring Sloane and Tru. I had not read the first book featuring this particular couple but I found that it really didn't seem to be totally necessary although there may be a bit more background information given having met the couple before. I have however read a couple others from the series and there are mentions of other previous characters but again, not really necessary to be familiar with them.
I actually enjoyed Sloane and Tru and watching this couple deal with some very tough things in their lives and how they handled them. My one complaint though with this book came at the very end, it just seemed to end rather abruptly and left a lot of things up in the air. It could be possible that this couple will continue on later but I would have enjoyed learning more about their issues in this book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
December 20, 2016
Sloane grew up in New York and the unexpected has happened, she actually feels at home in her new hometown in Texas. She likes NextGen Academy and loves the projects she's doing there. She has found some great friends at school and the vegetarian food Austin has to offer is amazing. Another thing she loves about her new home is Tru. She's fallen for the boy next door. The only thing she doesn't like about her new start is the fact that she has to miss her father and brother. To reunite the family Sloane has a perfect plan. She's going to organize the best Christmas ever to convince her father to move in with her and her mother. She's told him about her perfect boyfriend and wants to show him she has changed, but is Tru ready to play this part and will Sloane's Christmas actually be as wonderful as she hopes?
Falling for the Girl Next Door is another fabulous story about Sloane and Tru. Tru is struggling and needs Sloane more than he thinks. My heart ached for him. I like that Tera Lynn Childs writes about serious topics that happen to a lot of teenagers in an empathic way without sugarcoating anything. I think that's quite an achievement and it's what I love the most about this series. There are so many emotions that can be picked up by reading between the lines. I admire that about her writing. Tru is still a kindhearted and caring guy, but he's also having problems that are spiraling out of control until he can't deal with them on his own any longer. He's growing up quickly and he's facing his issues head-on, which is something I respected. Sloane is still not ready to share her biggest secret, but someone's trying to force her to go public. She learns a lot about herself and is slowly becoming a complete and mature person. I enjoyed witnessing that process as well.
Falling for the Girl Next Door has a sweet romantic aspect, but it also has a darker side. Those two opposites are perfectly balanced and Tera Lynn Childs writes about both the good and the bad things that are happening to her main characters in an equally captivating way. Her stories are interesting and versatile. I love this series and like the way all the stories are connected. It's an interesting project by different authors and I highly recommend it.
Falling for the Girl Next Door is another fabulous story about Sloane and Tru. Tru is struggling and needs Sloane more than he thinks. My heart ached for him. I like that Tera Lynn Childs writes about serious topics that happen to a lot of teenagers in an empathic way without sugarcoating anything. I think that's quite an achievement and it's what I love the most about this series. There are so many emotions that can be picked up by reading between the lines. I admire that about her writing. Tru is still a kindhearted and caring guy, but he's also having problems that are spiraling out of control until he can't deal with them on his own any longer. He's growing up quickly and he's facing his issues head-on, which is something I respected. Sloane is still not ready to share her biggest secret, but someone's trying to force her to go public. She learns a lot about herself and is slowly becoming a complete and mature person. I enjoyed witnessing that process as well.
Falling for the Girl Next Door has a sweet romantic aspect, but it also has a darker side. Those two opposites are perfectly balanced and Tera Lynn Childs writes about both the good and the bad things that are happening to her main characters in an equally captivating way. Her stories are interesting and versatile. I love this series and like the way all the stories are connected. It's an interesting project by different authors and I highly recommend it.
February 7, 2017
*This review will also appear on A Leisure Moment*
**I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
I love this series. The Creative HeArts series is a must-read for any lovers of romance or lovers of art. After starting this series, I want—no, need to go to Austin, Texas. Anyway, the sad truth is that Tru Dorsey and Sloane Whittaker wouldn’t be there.
Tru Dorsey…what a guy. At the close of book one in their story, Tru had fallen victim to the bottle. He had to face his addiction, and some of his decisions caused tension between the happy couple. He had a lot of things to learn about himself, and Childs did a wonderful job of stretching out his growth. I enjoyed reading as he became the Tru that Sloane already knew him to be.
Sloane changed a lot from the girl bitter over her unprecedented moved from the Big Apple to Austin. I liked her a lot more in this book. I liked her in book one, but she had a huge chip on her shoulder. Now, she had fallen in love with Austin and wanted to convince the rest of her family to give it a shot, too. Her brother made more of an appearance, and I loved their relationship. It showed a more vulnerable side of Sloane that had always been just beneath the surface.
I am itching for Willa and Finn’s next installment in the series. Their romance reached a new level in the background of Falling for the Girl Next Door, and if they don’t end up together, I might scream.
This series is the perfect escape. Whether you start with Tru and Sloane, Willa and Finn, Mariely and Cabot, or Dahlia and Keegan—wow, that’s a lot of options—you can do no wrong.
**I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
I love this series. The Creative HeArts series is a must-read for any lovers of romance or lovers of art. After starting this series, I want—no, need to go to Austin, Texas. Anyway, the sad truth is that Tru Dorsey and Sloane Whittaker wouldn’t be there.
Tru Dorsey…what a guy. At the close of book one in their story, Tru had fallen victim to the bottle. He had to face his addiction, and some of his decisions caused tension between the happy couple. He had a lot of things to learn about himself, and Childs did a wonderful job of stretching out his growth. I enjoyed reading as he became the Tru that Sloane already knew him to be.
Sloane changed a lot from the girl bitter over her unprecedented moved from the Big Apple to Austin. I liked her a lot more in this book. I liked her in book one, but she had a huge chip on her shoulder. Now, she had fallen in love with Austin and wanted to convince the rest of her family to give it a shot, too. Her brother made more of an appearance, and I loved their relationship. It showed a more vulnerable side of Sloane that had always been just beneath the surface.
I am itching for Willa and Finn’s next installment in the series. Their romance reached a new level in the background of Falling for the Girl Next Door, and if they don’t end up together, I might scream.
This series is the perfect escape. Whether you start with Tru and Sloane, Willa and Finn, Mariely and Cabot, or Dahlia and Keegan—wow, that’s a lot of options—you can do no wrong.
November 3, 2016
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
4 Stars.
Young adult age-range: 12+. Kissing. Addiction.
Not a standalone. This is book #2 of the Sloane & Tru trilogy (I believe these are trilogies), the first couple set within the Creative HeArts universe as #1 & #5 (this book) in the series. CH is a series of 4 couples interconnecting, each receiving a trilogy of books. The books must be read in order.
While I've enjoyed the Creative HeArts series as a whole, Sloane & Tru's first book was my least favorite of the series. However, I believe this was written with more maturity and focus than its predecessor.
Sloane & Tru are a couple at the beginning of the book, as they had been at the end of the previous installment, only they have some unresolved issues to work through. Sloane wants her family to be together, feeling guilty as if it was her fault they were split between Texas and NYC. Readers knew there was more lurking beneath the surface, for everyone in the cast.
This is a slightly darker read in terms of content, focusing on Tru's acceptance of his addiction and why he sought the bottle. I appreciated and applaud the author on tackling this tough subject matter, hopefully helping a younger reader through a similar situation.
Many of my issues with the first installment were addressed, with more maturity shown for the subject matter (I felt it was flippantly handled previously). However, there was one thread, while it may play into another couple's book, that was out of place and distracting from the overall direction the author was going. While this thread was woven into the entire book, it seemed to fizzle out and basically be forgotten by the author. In my opinion, it felt forced, unnecessary, and distracting.
I was pleased with not only the character development but the author's growth from one book to the next, and found Falling for the Girl Next Door to be a worthy addition to the Creative HeArts series.
I can't wait to see what else is in store for these couples.
4 Stars.
Young adult age-range: 12+. Kissing. Addiction.
Not a standalone. This is book #2 of the Sloane & Tru trilogy (I believe these are trilogies), the first couple set within the Creative HeArts universe as #1 & #5 (this book) in the series. CH is a series of 4 couples interconnecting, each receiving a trilogy of books. The books must be read in order.
While I've enjoyed the Creative HeArts series as a whole, Sloane & Tru's first book was my least favorite of the series. However, I believe this was written with more maturity and focus than its predecessor.
Sloane & Tru are a couple at the beginning of the book, as they had been at the end of the previous installment, only they have some unresolved issues to work through. Sloane wants her family to be together, feeling guilty as if it was her fault they were split between Texas and NYC. Readers knew there was more lurking beneath the surface, for everyone in the cast.
This is a slightly darker read in terms of content, focusing on Tru's acceptance of his addiction and why he sought the bottle. I appreciated and applaud the author on tackling this tough subject matter, hopefully helping a younger reader through a similar situation.
Many of my issues with the first installment were addressed, with more maturity shown for the subject matter (I felt it was flippantly handled previously). However, there was one thread, while it may play into another couple's book, that was out of place and distracting from the overall direction the author was going. While this thread was woven into the entire book, it seemed to fizzle out and basically be forgotten by the author. In my opinion, it felt forced, unnecessary, and distracting.
I was pleased with not only the character development but the author's growth from one book to the next, and found Falling for the Girl Next Door to be a worthy addition to the Creative HeArts series.
I can't wait to see what else is in store for these couples.
November 9, 2016
I love this series. And I really enjoyed Sloane and Tru's first book.
But then when I started Falling for the Girl Next Door, Sloan was back to her old antics. And I wasn't a fan of her when she had that attitude in book one, I really couldn't stomach her in this book. It really overshadowed my entire experience of Falling for the Girl Next Door. Simply because it kinda didn't mesh with what I felt Sloan had worked through...
The plot was ok. Except that I feel that Sloan did act rather annoying - which lead to Tru being jealous and mostly avoidable dramas. I do like that they did however, grow from this, that they did overcome some heavy issues together and also most importantly Tru facing up to things.
Though this is the second book of these two, it can be easily read as a standalone. Which Childs did very cleverly. I'm not sure if I personally liked this however, because as I mentioned, Sloan went through similar growth and problems in the first book. Also inevitably I kept on comparing the two books, and somehow for me book 1 just was cuter and sweeter and more swoony. However, book 2 is deeper and tackles some big issues, which is why I gave this a rather reluctant 3 stars rather than 4. I wish I wouldn't mind Sloan's attitude as much as I did. I think it would have been a really good book.
But alas for me, it wasn't.
Still Child does write interesting characters, does drama like a queen and beyond that did a good job at tackling some bigger issues without it becoming a heavy book.
So sadly not quite as enjoyable for me as I wished for, but definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
But then when I started Falling for the Girl Next Door, Sloan was back to her old antics. And I wasn't a fan of her when she had that attitude in book one, I really couldn't stomach her in this book. It really overshadowed my entire experience of Falling for the Girl Next Door. Simply because it kinda didn't mesh with what I felt Sloan had worked through...
The plot was ok. Except that I feel that Sloan did act rather annoying - which lead to Tru being jealous and mostly avoidable dramas. I do like that they did however, grow from this, that they did overcome some heavy issues together and also most importantly Tru facing up to things.
Though this is the second book of these two, it can be easily read as a standalone. Which Childs did very cleverly. I'm not sure if I personally liked this however, because as I mentioned, Sloan went through similar growth and problems in the first book. Also inevitably I kept on comparing the two books, and somehow for me book 1 just was cuter and sweeter and more swoony. However, book 2 is deeper and tackles some big issues, which is why I gave this a rather reluctant 3 stars rather than 4. I wish I wouldn't mind Sloan's attitude as much as I did. I think it would have been a really good book.
But alas for me, it wasn't.
Still Child does write interesting characters, does drama like a queen and beyond that did a good job at tackling some bigger issues without it becoming a heavy book.
So sadly not quite as enjoyable for me as I wished for, but definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
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April 8, 2025This review was originally posted on Bookish Things & More Review
It's no secret that I love the Creative HeArts series. There's only one more book after this one, and I'm sad to see it come to an end. But Tru and Sloane don't let us down.
I loved that both Tru and Sloane are dealing with their own problems. I just wish that they'd realize that fighting battles together is ALWAYS better than fighting them alone.
Sloane has a lot going on. She has someone blackmailing her about her web comic. Then she is trying to figure out how to get her brother and dad to stay in Austin. She feels like the person that drove the wedge between her family, but there may be more going on than she realized.
Tru has finally come to grips with the fact that he has a problem. He wants to be worthy of Sloane, and thinks pushing her away until he's who he wants to be is a good idea. But maybe a little outside help will allow him to see that maybe pushing her away is a stupid decision.
I love these two so much. They work so great together, and even though they are "on a break" their friendship is still there. (Even when it's awkward.)
We also get to see some of our other favorite characters in this series, and I can't wait for Finn and Willa's book!
It's no secret that I love the Creative HeArts series. There's only one more book after this one, and I'm sad to see it come to an end. But Tru and Sloane don't let us down.
I loved that both Tru and Sloane are dealing with their own problems. I just wish that they'd realize that fighting battles together is ALWAYS better than fighting them alone.
Sloane has a lot going on. She has someone blackmailing her about her web comic. Then she is trying to figure out how to get her brother and dad to stay in Austin. She feels like the person that drove the wedge between her family, but there may be more going on than she realized.
Tru has finally come to grips with the fact that he has a problem. He wants to be worthy of Sloane, and thinks pushing her away until he's who he wants to be is a good idea. But maybe a little outside help will allow him to see that maybe pushing her away is a stupid decision.
I love these two so much. They work so great together, and even though they are "on a break" their friendship is still there. (Even when it's awkward.)
We also get to see some of our other favorite characters in this series, and I can't wait for Finn and Willa's book!
February 7, 2017
This series is the perfect escape. Whether you start with Tru and Sloane, Willa and Finn, Mariely and Cabot, or Dahlia and Keegan—wow, that’s a lot of options—you can do no wrong.
Read the rest of the review!
November 18, 2016
Read full review HERE
I KEEP LOVING THIS SERIES!
After reading Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru, I was excited to keep reading their story, and this one most definitly did not disappoint. Actually, this book was deeper and heavier than the first one, and I really appreciated that.
Once again, I really enjoyed the writing, and I especially liked that Tru’s POV was deepened a little. In fact, this is a huge book in regards of Tru, given that it deals with him coming to terms with his addiction and seeking help for it.
Both characters show maturity while dealing with Tru’s problem, with him realizing that he wants to be his best version of himself, and that it isn’t fair to Sloane what he’s doing to their relationship. And Sloane by giving him time and space to sort himself out. Yeah, both these things come to a crash eventually, but they both have enough maturity to solve out everything.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the “fake-boyfriend” thing here, though it did make me love Finn even more, and now I can’t wait for his and Willa’s book. But I didn’t feel it was really necessary the overall scheme of things. Also, Sloane needs to chill about her parents! A parent that doesn’t answer your calls, is clearly more interested in something else more than he is about you, so the whole plan of making her dad move to Austin, didn’t sit well with me, because I never saw a way that it could happen.
I keep hating all the parents in this story… I have moments when I like Sloane’s mom, but they need to actually have a meaningful conversation at some point in time, right? I thought the plot on this book was a little rushed, and the time frame was a little short. I would have liked for them to take their time.
I’m excited for the last book about Sloane and Tru, because I want to see all the loose ends being tied up. I want Tru to let go of his father, I want Tru’s mom to do more, I want Sloane and her parents to actually discuss something important, I want her art public, and I want them going off to college together.
I KEEP LOVING THIS SERIES!
After reading Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru, I was excited to keep reading their story, and this one most definitly did not disappoint. Actually, this book was deeper and heavier than the first one, and I really appreciated that.
Once again, I really enjoyed the writing, and I especially liked that Tru’s POV was deepened a little. In fact, this is a huge book in regards of Tru, given that it deals with him coming to terms with his addiction and seeking help for it.
Both characters show maturity while dealing with Tru’s problem, with him realizing that he wants to be his best version of himself, and that it isn’t fair to Sloane what he’s doing to their relationship. And Sloane by giving him time and space to sort himself out. Yeah, both these things come to a crash eventually, but they both have enough maturity to solve out everything.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the “fake-boyfriend” thing here, though it did make me love Finn even more, and now I can’t wait for his and Willa’s book. But I didn’t feel it was really necessary the overall scheme of things. Also, Sloane needs to chill about her parents! A parent that doesn’t answer your calls, is clearly more interested in something else more than he is about you, so the whole plan of making her dad move to Austin, didn’t sit well with me, because I never saw a way that it could happen.
I keep hating all the parents in this story… I have moments when I like Sloane’s mom, but they need to actually have a meaningful conversation at some point in time, right? I thought the plot on this book was a little rushed, and the time frame was a little short. I would have liked for them to take their time.
I’m excited for the last book about Sloane and Tru, because I want to see all the loose ends being tied up. I want Tru to let go of his father, I want Tru’s mom to do more, I want Sloane and her parents to actually discuss something important, I want her art public, and I want them going off to college together.
November 15, 2016
I didn't realize how anxious I had been for the continuation of Tru and Sloane's story until this book landed on my Kindle! These characters really captured my heart in Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru and I've been patiently waiting to find out what was going to happen with them, because we were kind of left hanging at the end of that book. I'm happy to say I was not disappointed!
In Falling for the Girl Next Girl we learn a lot more about Tru, and it's not all pretty. As we saw in the previous book, he's got some heavy stuff going on in his life, and he doesn't necessarily handle things the best way. Although I think he could have dealt with Sloane a little differently while he was working through his issues, I understand why he acted as he did. I love that he "manned-up" and took control of his situation, before it really spiralled out of control.
Both Tru and Sloane dealt with some tough circumstances in this book, with their families and each other. They both made some great strides when it came to their attitudes and how they handled everything that was thrown at them. I loved seeing their growth throughout the book, both as individuals and as a couple. There's still a lot to come for these 2, and I'll be once again anxiously awaiting the rest of their story!
*Arc received courtesy of Entangled Publishing and NetGalley.
December 15, 2016
Going into the book I didn't know it was a continuation of a series. I should have know by the "creative hearts #whatever" in the title but that went over my head. I had read how Willa got her groove back so i was fairly familiar with the world. Despite me not reading the first book in Sloan and Tru's story I could still follow along and understand everything that happened. I did enjoy the book somewhat. It could be a little juvenile at times but for the most part was pretty good. Sloane could be a little naive and both her and Tru could be self-absorbed. But I liked the premise of the book, the writing was fine and the characters weren't exasperating. I also didn't mind reading a tad more about Finn and Willa because those two are my favorite from the series. I will have to say I did prefer Willa's story over this one. Overall a good, cute, light read. I recommend, especially if you've read any of the other books in the series.
July 10, 2020
I have read a book from the Creative HeArts series before and I really liked the creative setting. But seems here I missed out a previous part about Sloane and Tru and that was something I was feeling especially in the first part of the book. I had trouble getting into the story and had the feeling some imformation was missing, which now explains in the second book about this couple. I also had difficulties sorting out everyones names.
The story was an ok read for me, I definitely had the feeling I was too old for this kind of story. I never really got into the story and never connected with the characters. It also lacked in the creative setting this time.
The story was an ok read for me, I definitely had the feeling I was too old for this kind of story. I never really got into the story and never connected with the characters. It also lacked in the creative setting this time.
November 14, 2016
Mixed feelings on this one. The good points - it's well done with great writing. It wraps up Sloane and Tru's story and I love these characters. The story moves along nicely and deals with real issues. What I didn't care for - In my opinion there wasn't a lot to the story. At least not enough for a whole separate book. It simply wrapped things up that started in book 1. I didn't feel that Tru's issues and the help he sought out was realistic. It all seemed too simple when in reality it's a very real issue and not so simply dealt with.
January 4, 2018
The best part of the book is Finn. I think all the authors love him because he appears in all the books.
November 9, 2016
I really enjoy the Creative heArts series, and this just added to the first one that I read about Sloane and Tru. It was a quick fun read, but there was some seriousness to it. It was enjoyable and added more content to the story and to the couple as a whole.
We are back with Tru and Sloane who started the series off. This school they go to really sounds amazing and fun, but this isn’t about their school it’s about their personal lives. There really is no drama about the characters surrounding them in school it really does just focus on their personal problems. I like that it touched on different subject matters, such as addiction and family problems. Sloane is on a mission to bring her family back together and for that to happen she has to show her dad her perfect life in Texas, but nothing in life is perfect.
Tru is dealing with his addiction issues and I think he is dealing with them in the best manner possible, by getting help and talking things out. Finding the root of the problem always helps and then finding someone who can help you through it is even more important because we always need someone to lean on and give us strength when we are going to fall and Tru realizes this someone might just be someone he keeps pushing away.
In Sloane’s life it’s a little bit different, a lot of things are going on with her family that she didn’t even realize and being a teenager sometimes you get selfish and think it’s all about you or think it’s your fault when in reality you had nothing to do with it. It was touching and sad to see her go through her struggles with her family but its reality sometimes and we just have to learn to work through these issues.
Overall I thought this was a quick read, nothing cute about it there was quite a bit of seriousness but sometimes you need that in your life. I think the cover is adorable and I hope things start to work out for these two characters. Great addition to the series.
We are back with Tru and Sloane who started the series off. This school they go to really sounds amazing and fun, but this isn’t about their school it’s about their personal lives. There really is no drama about the characters surrounding them in school it really does just focus on their personal problems. I like that it touched on different subject matters, such as addiction and family problems. Sloane is on a mission to bring her family back together and for that to happen she has to show her dad her perfect life in Texas, but nothing in life is perfect.
Tru is dealing with his addiction issues and I think he is dealing with them in the best manner possible, by getting help and talking things out. Finding the root of the problem always helps and then finding someone who can help you through it is even more important because we always need someone to lean on and give us strength when we are going to fall and Tru realizes this someone might just be someone he keeps pushing away.
In Sloane’s life it’s a little bit different, a lot of things are going on with her family that she didn’t even realize and being a teenager sometimes you get selfish and think it’s all about you or think it’s your fault when in reality you had nothing to do with it. It was touching and sad to see her go through her struggles with her family but its reality sometimes and we just have to learn to work through these issues.
Overall I thought this was a quick read, nothing cute about it there was quite a bit of seriousness but sometimes you need that in your life. I think the cover is adorable and I hope things start to work out for these two characters. Great addition to the series.
May 23, 2017
I really enjoy the Creative heArts series, and this just added to the first one that I read about Sloane and Tru. It was a quick fun read, but there was some seriousness to it. It was enjoyable and added more content to the story and to the couple as a whole. In the beginning with Tru and Sloane who started the series off. This school they go to really sounds amazing and fun, but this isn’t about their school it’s about their personal lives. There really is no drama about the characters surrounding them in school it really does just focus on their personal problems. I like that it touched on different subject matters, such as addiction and family problems. Sloane is on a mission to bring her family back together and for that to happen she has to show her dad her perfect life in Texas, but nothing in life is perfect. Tru is dealing with his addiction issues and I think he is dealing with them in the best manner possible, by getting help and talking things out. Finding the root of the problem always helps and then finding someone who can help you through it is even more important because we always need someone to lean on and give us strength when we are going to fall and Tru realizes this someone might just be someone he keeps pushing away. In Sloane’s life it’s a little bit different, a lot of things are going on with her family that she didn’t even realize and being a teenager sometimes you get selfish and think it’s all about you or think it’s your fault when in reality you had nothing to do with it. It was touching and sad to see her go through her struggles with her family but its reality sometimes and we just have to learn to work through these issues. Overall I thought this was a quick read, nothing really too cute about it there was quite a bit of seriousness but sometimes you need that in a book. I think the cover is cute and I hope things start to work out for these two characters.
December 7, 2016
Yes, yes, yes, yes, this is what I’m talking about! This book proves the “the first book is always better” theory wrong. Falling For the Girl Next Door more than made up for whatever was lacking in 10 Things Sloane Hates About Tru. It was full of the feel-good factor and just overall cuteness and I loved every single second of it.
If I thought Sloane and Tru were swoon-worthy in the first book then I have no phrase or words for just how absolutely heart-meltingly sweet they are in this book (oh wait, I think I just found the words LOL).
I just wish two things had happened in this book:
1) More scenes between Sloane’s fake boyfriend (intentionally not saying who it was because when I found out? I was actually looking forward to the whole story arc and seeing scenes between the two) and Sloane instead of the small snippets that we got throughout the book.
2) A resolution to the whole Tru and David storyline (unless there’s another book, although I don’t think there will be), I wanted Sloane’s mum to find out about David, this just seems to open-ended to me and although I normally love a good open ended finish but it just didn’t work for me this time, with this storyline.
What more can I say? Other than if you’re not reading this series then you’re missing out.
If I thought Sloane and Tru were swoon-worthy in the first book then I have no phrase or words for just how absolutely heart-meltingly sweet they are in this book (oh wait, I think I just found the words LOL).
I just wish two things had happened in this book:
1) More scenes between Sloane’s fake boyfriend (intentionally not saying who it was because when I found out? I was actually looking forward to the whole story arc and seeing scenes between the two) and Sloane instead of the small snippets that we got throughout the book.
2) A resolution to the whole Tru and David storyline (unless there’s another book, although I don’t think there will be), I wanted Sloane’s mum to find out about David, this just seems to open-ended to me and although I normally love a good open ended finish but it just didn’t work for me this time, with this storyline.
What more can I say? Other than if you’re not reading this series then you’re missing out.
April 19, 2017
I love the Creative HeArts series and was excited to read more about Sloane and Tru even though I didn't read 10 Things Sloane Hates About Tru. I wish I had read that book so that I could see how they got their start.
Sloane is finally adjusting to Texas actually surprising herself by wanting to stay here Texas. She has a lot of things going on which includes someone blackmailing her about her web comic and trying to get her brother and dad to move to Texas with her and her mom so they can be together as a family. But Tru makes everything a little easier to deal with, but Tru is dealing with something a bit more life changing.
Tru is dealing with some demons of his own that he thinks that he can work out by his self and so he thinks pushing Sloane away will solve his problems. But he realizes he needs the ones he loves in helping him. A lot of his decisions created a lot of tension between him and Sloane that could've been avoided. But Tru seeks outside help and sees that being together with Sloane will help him. They couldn't do it alone, but needed each other.
Final Thoughts:
I'm sad that this is the end of Tru and Sloane's ending, but I'm also super excited to finally see things between Willa and Finn's relationship progress.
Sloane is finally adjusting to Texas actually surprising herself by wanting to stay here Texas. She has a lot of things going on which includes someone blackmailing her about her web comic and trying to get her brother and dad to move to Texas with her and her mom so they can be together as a family. But Tru makes everything a little easier to deal with, but Tru is dealing with something a bit more life changing.
Tru is dealing with some demons of his own that he thinks that he can work out by his self and so he thinks pushing Sloane away will solve his problems. But he realizes he needs the ones he loves in helping him. A lot of his decisions created a lot of tension between him and Sloane that could've been avoided. But Tru seeks outside help and sees that being together with Sloane will help him. They couldn't do it alone, but needed each other.
Final Thoughts:
I'm sad that this is the end of Tru and Sloane's ending, but I'm also super excited to finally see things between Willa and Finn's relationship progress.
November 14, 2016
Finally, the follow up. At last, more Tru and Sloane.
I absolutely love that we got to see more of Sloane’s little brother Dylan in this book and I’m dying to see what happens in the next Sloane and Tru book in the series.
I’m really glad that this book addressed Tru’s drinking problem and we get to see him working through it, and that both Sloane and Tru try to do what is best to help him.
I totally called the Blackmailer thing and love the way it played out in the story.
The family drama within both Tru and Sloane’s families were a great addition to the storyline and kept it very real and grounded. I also like that it’s not completely one-sided in that Tru is the only one with issues and the other has a relatively more normal life (not that being uprooted to move across the country is normal by any means, but I’m glad it’s not just a distance thing but that there is more going on behind the scenes)
I’m excited to read the next book in the series, both the entire series with different characters and the Sloane/Tru part of the series. If only it didn’t take so long to get the next one ;)
I absolutely love that we got to see more of Sloane’s little brother Dylan in this book and I’m dying to see what happens in the next Sloane and Tru book in the series.
I’m really glad that this book addressed Tru’s drinking problem and we get to see him working through it, and that both Sloane and Tru try to do what is best to help him.
I totally called the Blackmailer thing and love the way it played out in the story.
The family drama within both Tru and Sloane’s families were a great addition to the storyline and kept it very real and grounded. I also like that it’s not completely one-sided in that Tru is the only one with issues and the other has a relatively more normal life (not that being uprooted to move across the country is normal by any means, but I’m glad it’s not just a distance thing but that there is more going on behind the scenes)
I’m excited to read the next book in the series, both the entire series with different characters and the Sloane/Tru part of the series. If only it didn’t take so long to get the next one ;)
November 18, 2017
I didn't read the first book about Sloan and Tru, and felt that I had missed some important back story information. But it didn't stop me from becoming involved in this pair's entanglements. It was great to be able to watch them find strength deep inside them, and be able to work through issues, both individually and as a couple.
I liked that Tru was honest about his problem and tried to fix it. Those first tentative steps alone were harsh, but necessary. While dealing with his drinking issue was handled simply and perhaps too easily, it still showed the obstacles he faced.
But Truman's story is really secondary behind Sloan's crumbling family. She feels a lot of guilt, but that turns to anger and frustration as secrets are revealed. But the family drama feels real, and Sloan's realisation that support is dovetails nicely with Tru's acceptance about the same thing.
I liked seeing all the other characters of the Creative HeArts books. It's a clever intertwining of stories. Copy provided by Netgalley. Released on November 14.
I liked that Tru was honest about his problem and tried to fix it. Those first tentative steps alone were harsh, but necessary. While dealing with his drinking issue was handled simply and perhaps too easily, it still showed the obstacles he faced.
But Truman's story is really secondary behind Sloan's crumbling family. She feels a lot of guilt, but that turns to anger and frustration as secrets are revealed. But the family drama feels real, and Sloan's realisation that support is dovetails nicely with Tru's acceptance about the same thing.
I liked seeing all the other characters of the Creative HeArts books. It's a clever intertwining of stories. Copy provided by Netgalley. Released on November 14.
December 9, 2016
I enjoyed Sloane and Tru's newest adventure at Austin NextGen Academy. Like their first book together, they are both dealing with some difficult situations with their families and for Tru, the way he deals with them. However, as the story twists and turns along the way from the last weeks of school before the Christmas vacation and Christmas Day, I liked seeing how they dealt with these issues and grew into more mature young people.
It was particularly great to see Sloane interact with her little brother, Dylan, in person and to see glimpses (and more than glimpses) of the other characters in the Creative HeArts series, including: Sloane's friend Jenna, Finn, Willa, Cabot, Mariely, Jacen, Keagan, and Dahlia in school and working on the Lizzie Borden Diaries.
Can't wait for the next book with Will and Finn - it's going to be epic!
It was particularly great to see Sloane interact with her little brother, Dylan, in person and to see glimpses (and more than glimpses) of the other characters in the Creative HeArts series, including: Sloane's friend Jenna, Finn, Willa, Cabot, Mariely, Jacen, Keagan, and Dahlia in school and working on the Lizzie Borden Diaries.
Can't wait for the next book with Will and Finn - it's going to be epic!
June 3, 2021
it took me a while to get back into Sloane & Tru's shoes. but when it finally did, i loved every moment of it! it was painful to feel every pain & struggles they went through, yet the happiness brought even more tears into my eyes. the story was a relatable truth of what teenagers were often thrown into, forced to grow up faster than their age.
March 18, 2017
I remember way i loved sloane and tru...they are great together...story continues where was left off.. and some things are resolved. You will have to read first book about these two to understand them better. Sloan is great and smart I enjoyed it. Hope that there is more.
December 5, 2016
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You guys know how the story goes by now – I get a book published by the Entangled Crush team and I gush, because the books are just so freaking cute! Well, Falling for the Girl Next Door is living up to its predecessors and I really can’t function with this cute, romantic overload. I was not prepared to feel so warm and mushy tonight, so thank you Tera Lynn Childs!
Hands down, this is some of the best work I’ve ever seen from the author. Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru was a brilliant novel, and you can check out my original review right here, but admittedly it wasn’t perfect. However, if you followed through on my recommendations and got yourself a copy of the book, then prepare to be wowed by the next instalment in the Sloane and Tru series. This novel had some much more depth and development, partly due to the fact that it was a series, but also because of author development. They say writing only improves with time, and it must be true. Let me just say, if Tera Lynn Childs keeps writing stuff like this, I’m going to have to meet her – which will be really hard considering I’m poor and I live in England.
Two things I absolutely adored about this book were: the fact that I didn’t have to go back and reread the first novel to understand what was going on in this one. The first book was released something like a few months ago, and there have been a fair share of books since then. Instead, the author incorporated a sort of ‘time-hop’ into the beginning of the book to jog your memory from the first novel. This is a brilliant thing, because if you never got around to reading the first one, you technically don’t have to: but it is highly advised! Secondly, the ability to fluently and easily swap and change from first person to third person was brilliant. I must admit that this is not an easy task, and if executed poorly could lead the readers to be confused or perhaps even give up on the novel. There was absolutely no inclination to put this book down, so again, hats off.
Not only did the writer grow in leaps and bounds with this novel, but so did the characters. While we got to witness the characters in their Tru (hehe c; ) forms, they managed to develop a lot more and gain a lot more personality and respectability. Sloane had been a little bit whiny in the first novel, but in this one she seemed to feel more of a woman – facing young adult-hood rather than pure adolescence. Similarly with Tru, his ability to admit his flaws and act in a grown-up way when dealing with them makes you really adore the character. I also wanted to cuddle him, but I think that was just me.
The book also tackles a lot of issues that can be particularly hard for people, including divorce, change and alcoholism. The portrayal of themes in the story is done very well and shine a light on the importance of understanding, getting help and moving forward. I feel like Tera Lynn Childs needs to bring me another instalment of Sloane and Tru soon or I might just die. Also, the book deals with Christmas . . . and there are like twenty-one days left until the big days hits us! So this is definitely a perfect wintery read. Falling for the Girl Next Door deserves a brilliant four out of five stars – not the best thing I’ve read all year, but something pretty damn special!
You guys know how the story goes by now – I get a book published by the Entangled Crush team and I gush, because the books are just so freaking cute! Well, Falling for the Girl Next Door is living up to its predecessors and I really can’t function with this cute, romantic overload. I was not prepared to feel so warm and mushy tonight, so thank you Tera Lynn Childs!
Hands down, this is some of the best work I’ve ever seen from the author. Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru was a brilliant novel, and you can check out my original review right here, but admittedly it wasn’t perfect. However, if you followed through on my recommendations and got yourself a copy of the book, then prepare to be wowed by the next instalment in the Sloane and Tru series. This novel had some much more depth and development, partly due to the fact that it was a series, but also because of author development. They say writing only improves with time, and it must be true. Let me just say, if Tera Lynn Childs keeps writing stuff like this, I’m going to have to meet her – which will be really hard considering I’m poor and I live in England.
Two things I absolutely adored about this book were: the fact that I didn’t have to go back and reread the first novel to understand what was going on in this one. The first book was released something like a few months ago, and there have been a fair share of books since then. Instead, the author incorporated a sort of ‘time-hop’ into the beginning of the book to jog your memory from the first novel. This is a brilliant thing, because if you never got around to reading the first one, you technically don’t have to: but it is highly advised! Secondly, the ability to fluently and easily swap and change from first person to third person was brilliant. I must admit that this is not an easy task, and if executed poorly could lead the readers to be confused or perhaps even give up on the novel. There was absolutely no inclination to put this book down, so again, hats off.
Not only did the writer grow in leaps and bounds with this novel, but so did the characters. While we got to witness the characters in their Tru (hehe c; ) forms, they managed to develop a lot more and gain a lot more personality and respectability. Sloane had been a little bit whiny in the first novel, but in this one she seemed to feel more of a woman – facing young adult-hood rather than pure adolescence. Similarly with Tru, his ability to admit his flaws and act in a grown-up way when dealing with them makes you really adore the character. I also wanted to cuddle him, but I think that was just me.
The book also tackles a lot of issues that can be particularly hard for people, including divorce, change and alcoholism. The portrayal of themes in the story is done very well and shine a light on the importance of understanding, getting help and moving forward. I feel like Tera Lynn Childs needs to bring me another instalment of Sloane and Tru soon or I might just die. Also, the book deals with Christmas . . . and there are like twenty-one days left until the big days hits us! So this is definitely a perfect wintery read. Falling for the Girl Next Door deserves a brilliant four out of five stars – not the best thing I’ve read all year, but something pretty damn special!
January 18, 2018
La suite tant attendue du couple Sloane/ Tru.
À la fin de premier roman Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru, Sloane ne voulait plus repartir à New York, elle avait fini par aimer sa vie au Texas, elle appréciait l’école, mais surtout, elle ne voulait pas quitter son beau voisin : Tru. Entre les deux, la relation amour/amitié continue de fonctionner à merveille. Mais Tru se sent de plus en plus toucher le fond, surtout en entendant Sloane heureuse à l’idée de passer les fêtes à New York, loin de lui.
Mais le programme de Sloane change une semaine avant le début des vacances, finalement, c’est son père et son frère qui viendront au Texas. Ce qui est parfait pour elle. Sloane pourra montrer à son père, à quel point la vie au Texas peut être merveilleuse, elle lui montrera qu’elle est à nouveau la fille parfaite, qu’elle s’est calmée, et qu’elle a trouvé le parfait petit ami.
Malheureusement, c’est à ce moment-là que Tru dérape et qu’il préfère faire une pause pour se reprendre en main. Sloane se retrouve seule, alors qu’elle a promis à son père de lui présenter son petit ami. Alors Tru lui propose une « idée de génie », lui présenter un faux petit-ami. Et qui de mieux pour jouer ce rôle que le beau Finn McCain, le fils de la célèbre actrice Mia ?
Seulement, Tru n’avait pas pensé à un petit quelque chose de rien du tout : la jalousie. Mais surtout la peur de perdre définitivement Sloane.
J’attendais cette suite avec beaucoup d’impatience. Il faut dire que le couple Sloane/Tru vaut vraiment le détour. Ils sont drôles et parfaitement en phase, surtout pour des idées à la con, comme trouver un faux petit ami.
Mais l’auteure ne se fait pas que nous montrer une évolution du couple Sloane/Tru. Dans le tome précédent, l’auteur avait mis plusieurs petites histoires sans mettre une seule conclusion. Comme, le comics Graphic Grrl, Sloane va-t-elle annoncer publiquement qu’elle en est l’auteure ? Ou également la relation entre Tru et son père qui est véritablement compliquée.
L’auteure continue de développer ces histoires sans pour autant nous offrir une conclusion, ce qui ne signifie qu’une chose : nous aurons toutes les conclusions dans le troisième tome que j’attends avec impatience.
Comme toutes les auteures de la série Creative HeArts, Tera Lynn insère les personnages des autres romans pour offrir une meilleure connexion entre les personnages de la série. Et ça a été un véritable régal de redécouvrir Finn, le beau héros un poil énervant de How Willa Get Her Groove Back.
Falling For the Girl Next Door est la parfaite continuité de Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru, l’écriture de l’auteure est tellement fluide que vous n’arrivez pas à vous détacher du livre. L’auteure aime jouer avec les nerfs du lecteur, et même avec une conclusion satisfaisante de ce roman, il y a beaucoup d’interrogations en suspens qui me rendent impatiente d’avoir la suite entre les mains.
À la fin de premier roman Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru, Sloane ne voulait plus repartir à New York, elle avait fini par aimer sa vie au Texas, elle appréciait l’école, mais surtout, elle ne voulait pas quitter son beau voisin : Tru. Entre les deux, la relation amour/amitié continue de fonctionner à merveille. Mais Tru se sent de plus en plus toucher le fond, surtout en entendant Sloane heureuse à l’idée de passer les fêtes à New York, loin de lui.
Mais le programme de Sloane change une semaine avant le début des vacances, finalement, c’est son père et son frère qui viendront au Texas. Ce qui est parfait pour elle. Sloane pourra montrer à son père, à quel point la vie au Texas peut être merveilleuse, elle lui montrera qu’elle est à nouveau la fille parfaite, qu’elle s’est calmée, et qu’elle a trouvé le parfait petit ami.
Malheureusement, c’est à ce moment-là que Tru dérape et qu’il préfère faire une pause pour se reprendre en main. Sloane se retrouve seule, alors qu’elle a promis à son père de lui présenter son petit ami. Alors Tru lui propose une « idée de génie », lui présenter un faux petit-ami. Et qui de mieux pour jouer ce rôle que le beau Finn McCain, le fils de la célèbre actrice Mia ?
Seulement, Tru n’avait pas pensé à un petit quelque chose de rien du tout : la jalousie. Mais surtout la peur de perdre définitivement Sloane.
J’attendais cette suite avec beaucoup d’impatience. Il faut dire que le couple Sloane/Tru vaut vraiment le détour. Ils sont drôles et parfaitement en phase, surtout pour des idées à la con, comme trouver un faux petit ami.
Mais l’auteure ne se fait pas que nous montrer une évolution du couple Sloane/Tru. Dans le tome précédent, l’auteur avait mis plusieurs petites histoires sans mettre une seule conclusion. Comme, le comics Graphic Grrl, Sloane va-t-elle annoncer publiquement qu’elle en est l’auteure ? Ou également la relation entre Tru et son père qui est véritablement compliquée.
L’auteure continue de développer ces histoires sans pour autant nous offrir une conclusion, ce qui ne signifie qu’une chose : nous aurons toutes les conclusions dans le troisième tome que j’attends avec impatience.
Comme toutes les auteures de la série Creative HeArts, Tera Lynn insère les personnages des autres romans pour offrir une meilleure connexion entre les personnages de la série. Et ça a été un véritable régal de redécouvrir Finn, le beau héros un poil énervant de How Willa Get Her Groove Back.
Falling For the Girl Next Door est la parfaite continuité de Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru, l’écriture de l’auteure est tellement fluide que vous n’arrivez pas à vous détacher du livre. L’auteure aime jouer avec les nerfs du lecteur, et même avec une conclusion satisfaisante de ce roman, il y a beaucoup d’interrogations en suspens qui me rendent impatiente d’avoir la suite entre les mains.
January 17, 2017
OVerall liked. Liked the storyline. Like the writing and the characters. Loved Tru..
Tru wasn’t perfect. He didn’t claim to be either. He did what he thought was best and at the end he was amazeballs. I loved how he decided on his own to get help so he can become a better person. And although this wasn’t a popular decision making it about him and letting Sloane know he needed this time was very brave. He did what so many people are told to when beginning their recovery-stand alone to make sure that it is for you and not others. I hated to see how it affected him and loved how at the end he found he was strong enough to have Sloane in his world as well as recover.
Sloane at times for me was self absorbed. Normal for a teenager but did drive me batty at times. I hated to see her brother feeling how he was when he was down. Also the little blackmail deal wow. didn’t expect that to turn out how it did. She had guilt about her family and that was sad to see. Especially when the truth comes out you want to really yell at her parents for letting her go on the way she did. She took everything to heart and seriously her dad was not a good guy in this particular instance. You felt for the brother because he was holding so much in.
This is the sweet real and wonderful story of two people who loved each other. Tru who needed to deal with his demons that caused his addictions and how he went about healing himself. Sloane dealing with so many family issues, guilt and Tru’s addiction. It is the story of how they were there for each other even when they weren’t. How they got strength from each other and how they weathered the bad times to come out better and stronger. I loved how Tru was at the family dinner Sloane had made. I didn’t like when she had the fake boyfriend because it was hard to watch Sloane and Tru go through that to please Sloane’s parents but also because it affected Tru even if he didn’t think it did. Seeing his recovery though and how he learned about himself, his demons, his addictions and faced them head on was awesome. So was the love these two had for each other.
A great heartwarming story of overcoming fears, addictions, and going against others to become a better version of you, healing and letting love help you become this even when you didn’t realize it was.
Tru wasn’t perfect. He didn’t claim to be either. He did what he thought was best and at the end he was amazeballs. I loved how he decided on his own to get help so he can become a better person. And although this wasn’t a popular decision making it about him and letting Sloane know he needed this time was very brave. He did what so many people are told to when beginning their recovery-stand alone to make sure that it is for you and not others. I hated to see how it affected him and loved how at the end he found he was strong enough to have Sloane in his world as well as recover.
Sloane at times for me was self absorbed. Normal for a teenager but did drive me batty at times. I hated to see her brother feeling how he was when he was down. Also the little blackmail deal wow. didn’t expect that to turn out how it did. She had guilt about her family and that was sad to see. Especially when the truth comes out you want to really yell at her parents for letting her go on the way she did. She took everything to heart and seriously her dad was not a good guy in this particular instance. You felt for the brother because he was holding so much in.
This is the sweet real and wonderful story of two people who loved each other. Tru who needed to deal with his demons that caused his addictions and how he went about healing himself. Sloane dealing with so many family issues, guilt and Tru’s addiction. It is the story of how they were there for each other even when they weren’t. How they got strength from each other and how they weathered the bad times to come out better and stronger. I loved how Tru was at the family dinner Sloane had made. I didn’t like when she had the fake boyfriend because it was hard to watch Sloane and Tru go through that to please Sloane’s parents but also because it affected Tru even if he didn’t think it did. Seeing his recovery though and how he learned about himself, his demons, his addictions and faced them head on was awesome. So was the love these two had for each other.
A great heartwarming story of overcoming fears, addictions, and going against others to become a better version of you, healing and letting love help you become this even when you didn’t realize it was.
December 18, 2016
Tru and Sloane are back!
I really enjoyed their second installment, even though I couldn't get behind one (okay, two) of the big decisions they made in the book. They saw the error of their ways eventually, and really, who hasn't made dumb decisions while in their teens and beyond? Far be it from me to be pointing fingers!
FFTGND starts out with Sloane and Tru in a happy place--Sloane's actually liking Austin now (though she's counting the days until she's back in NYC for Christmas), and she and Tru are all kinds of cute together. You know that's not going to last, though, otherwise what would be the point of having another book? ;)
And yep, soon the drama starts (I swear, half the reason I read YA is so I can be grateful I'm no longer a teen)--one problem is a carryover from book one: it gets worse, and thankfully the person most involved decides to do something about it (yay, Tru!); another problem develops more slowly, though the reader could really see it coming way before Sloane ever does (denial. Not just a river in Egypt.) And then there's the cyber threat to out Sloane's identity as the creator of Graphic Grrl...
All in all we end up in a pretty good place again by the last page, though not everything is resolved and I'm still anxious to see how it'll all end up (though at this point, I'm more anxious for Willa and Finn's #2. When will it be released? When?? When??? Finn....)
FFTGND could probably be read as a standalone, though I'd really recommend reading book one first ( Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru ) because there's definitely some elements of the story that carry over, and you'll know the characters better. Both of the Sloane and Tru books can be read independently of the other Creative Hearts series books, but why would you want to do that? Do yourself a favor and read them all! ;)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I really enjoyed their second installment, even though I couldn't get behind one (okay, two) of the big decisions they made in the book. They saw the error of their ways eventually, and really, who hasn't made dumb decisions while in their teens and beyond? Far be it from me to be pointing fingers!
FFTGND starts out with Sloane and Tru in a happy place--Sloane's actually liking Austin now (though she's counting the days until she's back in NYC for Christmas), and she and Tru are all kinds of cute together. You know that's not going to last, though, otherwise what would be the point of having another book? ;)
And yep, soon the drama starts (I swear, half the reason I read YA is so I can be grateful I'm no longer a teen)--one problem is a carryover from book one: it gets worse, and thankfully the person most involved decides to do something about it (yay, Tru!); another problem develops more slowly, though the reader could really see it coming way before Sloane ever does (denial. Not just a river in Egypt.) And then there's the cyber threat to out Sloane's identity as the creator of Graphic Grrl...
All in all we end up in a pretty good place again by the last page, though not everything is resolved and I'm still anxious to see how it'll all end up (though at this point, I'm more anxious for Willa and Finn's #2. When will it be released? When?? When??? Finn....)
FFTGND could probably be read as a standalone, though I'd really recommend reading book one first ( Ten Things Sloane Hates About Tru ) because there's definitely some elements of the story that carry over, and you'll know the characters better. Both of the Sloane and Tru books can be read independently of the other Creative Hearts series books, but why would you want to do that? Do yourself a favor and read them all! ;)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
November 7, 2016
An entertaining read with well-developed characters, a wonderful creative setting, some real-life problems, and a sweet romance I could totally get behind.
I haven't read any of the other books in this series (including the first book which tells how Sloane and Tru got together) but it didn't matter as this can be read as a standalone.
I love that both mains were creative people - Sloane is the mystery talent behind Graphic Grrl, a very successful online animated superhero strip, and Tru is a wannabe filmmaker who loves nothing more than filming his beautiful girlfriend - and it really created a great backdrop for the story.
Tru and Sloane are great characters, both complex and well developed and a good representation of teenagers struggling to deal with family and identity issues. Together, they were a wonderful team and a great example of a truly supportive relationship. I could understand that Tru didn't want Sloane to become his crutch, and he wanted to be the type of boy she deserved, but I hated that he mistakenly pushed her away. Sloane wants to do the right thing by him so she goes along with it even if she is missing him terribly.
The situation with Finn was very humorous at times and I'm intrigued to read his and Willa's story now.
I love that family features quite prominently in this book, even if it is more of the dysfunctional variety. I adored Dylan and only wish we had gotten to see more of him. Jenna was also a great character.
The romance was sweet and clean and my only complaint is that I wish there had been more of it and that it was a little more emotionally intense.
The plot wasn't anything amazingly original but it's well executed and it chips along at a nice pace. The book does deal with some serious issues but it's not a deep read, however, I liked that therapy was involved and how that played out as that's an important message (even if the transition would have taken longer in real life.)
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read and I look forward to checking out other books in this series.
Thanks to Entangled Teen for providing an advance complimentary copy of this book.
I haven't read any of the other books in this series (including the first book which tells how Sloane and Tru got together) but it didn't matter as this can be read as a standalone.
I love that both mains were creative people - Sloane is the mystery talent behind Graphic Grrl, a very successful online animated superhero strip, and Tru is a wannabe filmmaker who loves nothing more than filming his beautiful girlfriend - and it really created a great backdrop for the story.
Tru and Sloane are great characters, both complex and well developed and a good representation of teenagers struggling to deal with family and identity issues. Together, they were a wonderful team and a great example of a truly supportive relationship. I could understand that Tru didn't want Sloane to become his crutch, and he wanted to be the type of boy she deserved, but I hated that he mistakenly pushed her away. Sloane wants to do the right thing by him so she goes along with it even if she is missing him terribly.
The situation with Finn was very humorous at times and I'm intrigued to read his and Willa's story now.
I love that family features quite prominently in this book, even if it is more of the dysfunctional variety. I adored Dylan and only wish we had gotten to see more of him. Jenna was also a great character.
The romance was sweet and clean and my only complaint is that I wish there had been more of it and that it was a little more emotionally intense.
The plot wasn't anything amazingly original but it's well executed and it chips along at a nice pace. The book does deal with some serious issues but it's not a deep read, however, I liked that therapy was involved and how that played out as that's an important message (even if the transition would have taken longer in real life.)
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read and I look forward to checking out other books in this series.
Thanks to Entangled Teen for providing an advance complimentary copy of this book.
November 14, 2016
falling for the girl next door is the second book in sloane and tru's story. when i picked this book up i wasn't really aware of that fact. it's also the fifth book in the creative hearts series, which just feels a bit confusing. like maybe the author is trying to build up a high school series like the sweet valley high books? maybe teens are on the look out for things like that?
while i hadn't read the first book, it didn't really matter because the first couple of chapters recap a lot of the stuff that happened in the first book. while i found it useful to have the background i also struggled with finding this recap stuff interesting. and if i was new to the series and not interested really, how bad would it be for a returning reader?
another thing i wasn't sure of, though i'm sure this is continuing the style of the earlier books, was that sloane's perspective took place in the first person. tru's perspective took place in third person. why do we need that shift in perspectives? i didn't mind the alternating viewpoints, but the shift from first person to third really got on my nerves for some reason.
i'm not sure why there was a sequel to sloane and tru's story from the first book. perhaps some of tru's issues hadn't been fully resolved, and they do take care of that here. but other than that, sloane and tru were working through stuff in their relationship. and they both were dealing with some serious family drama. and things mostly got resolved.
this was a perfectly fine read, but i'm not sure i'm interested enough to go back and catch up on the series.
**falling for the girl next door will publish on november 14, 2016. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (crush) in exchange for my honest review.
while i hadn't read the first book, it didn't really matter because the first couple of chapters recap a lot of the stuff that happened in the first book. while i found it useful to have the background i also struggled with finding this recap stuff interesting. and if i was new to the series and not interested really, how bad would it be for a returning reader?
another thing i wasn't sure of, though i'm sure this is continuing the style of the earlier books, was that sloane's perspective took place in the first person. tru's perspective took place in third person. why do we need that shift in perspectives? i didn't mind the alternating viewpoints, but the shift from first person to third really got on my nerves for some reason.
i'm not sure why there was a sequel to sloane and tru's story from the first book. perhaps some of tru's issues hadn't been fully resolved, and they do take care of that here. but other than that, sloane and tru were working through stuff in their relationship. and they both were dealing with some serious family drama. and things mostly got resolved.
this was a perfectly fine read, but i'm not sure i'm interested enough to go back and catch up on the series.
**falling for the girl next door will publish on november 14, 2016. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (crush) in exchange for my honest review.
November 17, 2016
Sloan and her mother moved to Austin after "the incident" and she fell for the bad boy next door. This book picks up with Tru and Sloan enjoying their relationship and Sloan settling into her Austin life. Just as things are looking up problems arise in her love life, family life, and personal life.
Disclaimer: I did not read the first book in this series. With that said, I do not think it is necessary to read the first book, as this book reads like a stand alone. I really liked the way the author approached Tru's issues in a way that was honest and seemingly realistic. I also really liked how the familial relationships were explored, although it was sad that both Tru and Sloan had crummy dads and both of their parents had troubled marriages. The bond between Sloan and her brother, Dylan, was very sweet. I was touched by the way they stood together and supported each other in their time of need. I thought Sloan and Tru made a great team, and liked all the scenes they shared together. The ending was very sweet, lots of feels. I especially liked the montage part.
With that said, I sometimes felt like there was too much going on in the story; it seemed unfocused at times. It wasn't necessarily the worst thing, but I felt like other parts of the story suffered because of it. I also wish there had been closure with respect to the family issues. This conflict seemed like a major part of the story and it just did not seem right to leave it open at the end.
Overall: an entertaining read dealing with some real issues, but still light hearted.
Disclaimer: I did not read the first book in this series. With that said, I do not think it is necessary to read the first book, as this book reads like a stand alone. I really liked the way the author approached Tru's issues in a way that was honest and seemingly realistic. I also really liked how the familial relationships were explored, although it was sad that both Tru and Sloan had crummy dads and both of their parents had troubled marriages. The bond between Sloan and her brother, Dylan, was very sweet. I was touched by the way they stood together and supported each other in their time of need. I thought Sloan and Tru made a great team, and liked all the scenes they shared together. The ending was very sweet, lots of feels. I especially liked the montage part.
With that said, I sometimes felt like there was too much going on in the story; it seemed unfocused at times. It wasn't necessarily the worst thing, but I felt like other parts of the story suffered because of it. I also wish there had been closure with respect to the family issues. This conflict seemed like a major part of the story and it just did not seem right to leave it open at the end.
Overall: an entertaining read dealing with some real issues, but still light hearted.
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