Upcoming Review: Jesse's Girl

Maya longs to become a musician in her own right. After the disaster at the talent show and getting kicked out of her own band, she’s ready to throw in the towel.

She still has to get through Career Shadow Day where she will be paired with country superstar Jesse Scott. Their first meeting went terribly wrong. Jesse’s ego can barely fit through the door; it’s clear he’d rather be anywhere but spending time with her.

Still, she gives it her best shot. Before long, defenses are broken down on both sides. What starts off as a nightmare could turn into a daydream. Can they help each other achieve their dreams?

My Thoughts: 

I Love Miranda Kenneally's book and this one is no different. I love that it branches out from sports books to a book about music and chasing your dreams.

I admit that I wasn't a huge fan of Jesse's at first, but he obviously won me over. I felt horrible for him and his family life. He had a terrible struggle with them and yet he is willing to throw away his happiness to keep his family close. It's admirable.

I really liked Maya - like Kenneally's other characters - she's strong, determined, and she has a dream. I liked watching her chase her dream to turn it into reality.

I loved the day they shared together and the outcomes from that day. 

Also I loved seeing favorite character again - like Jordan!

Cover Thoughts: Adorable

Source: Reviewed for VOYA magazine (review for blog is different)
Cover Quote: Don't you just love that quote on the cover - I wrote it in my VOYA review.
Release Date: July 7th

Final Thoughts: Jesse’s Girl is the perfect summer novel hitting all the right notes. Add this to your TBR pile - right near the top!

Review: Matter of Heart

Abby's amazing at swimming. So amazing that at age 16, she's hoping to qualify for the Olympic team. She's on track.

Until she faints after a race. Her coach makes her get checked out by a doctor before she's back in the pool. Abby assumes that she'll be back swimming before the end of the week. But the doctor hears something with her heart.

Abby goes for more tests, not believing that her dreams could come crashing down. Who is she without swimming?

My Thoughts: I couldn't put this book down, I devoured it in one sitting.

I felt horrible for Abby - working so hard on this dream and then to have her world change. She struggled so hard  and went through the stages of grief. Abby is strong, determined, and at times reckless. There were times when I hated her choices, but ultimately, I admired her drive and determination. 

I loved the moments of her teaching the kids - especially with Alec.

I really liked Jen - how she researched the disease and tried to talk sense into her friend. 

I wasn't a fan of Abby's boyfriend. He seemed too focused on perfection on the outside. He wasn't there for her. Plus he pressured her. 

I liked the tension between Alec and Abby - despite his rivalry with Connor.

I liked Abby's parents. I liked the moments between her and her father - especially the late night chats. I felt badly for him for having his dreams ripped away from him. But then he put all his hopes on his daughter. 

I really loved how this book was about chasing your dreams and then dealing with the aftermath of losing them. 

Cover Thoughts: Ok - doesn't really speak to me or say what the book's about
Source: Book sent for review

Final Thoughts: A powerful book about finding yourself when everything around you is crumbling. This one is a must read - add it to your list.