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Redefining Me #3
The C Word
Addison:
Secrets have a way of getting out.Ìý
And I, Addison Parker, am the queen of secrets.Ìý
Really, I’m the queen of the entire school, but that’s one label I never wanted.
After an injury leaves me benched from cheerleading, it’s a relief.Ìý
I can spend time with my two best friends: yoga pants and books.Ìý
That’s secret number one.Ìý
Secret number two? Well, I’d have to kill you if I told you.Ìý
The only person I want to tell is Bookboy, my anonymous online friend. In my head, he’s perfect, a dashing prince straight out of one of my romance novels.Ìý
Whoever he is, he’s not the one person I can’t even look at. Because Julian Callahan is definitely not a prince.Ìý
But maybe a prince isn’t the answer because my life has never been a fairytale.
I have a secret.Ìý
Really, I have a few.Ìý
I am not my twin. Okay, that’s more fact than secret. My brother is dead, and I don’t miss him. That juicy enough? I think I’m supposed to wish he were here, but he did something terrible that night.Ìý
I’m writing a romance novel. Love is kind of cool, sue me. But that’s not the secret. That’s about a girl I’ve known for years, and I’ve never been able to stop thinking about her.
I also have this new online friend. LitGirl makes me smile a lot these days. And yetâ€� she’s not the one I want. At least, I don’t think she is.Ìý
How do I choose between the only girl who knows me, the one leaving her hilarious comments in the margins of my book, and the girl I’ve loved my entire life?Ìý
One is anonymous. The other, only a dream.Ìý
But these secrets� they just might hurt us all.
Book 3 in the Redefining Me series, Dating my Nemesis is a full-length, standalone YA romance with all the feels.Ìý
This book was previously published as The CÌýWord.Ìý
The Redefining Me series:
Dating My Best Friend Dating the Boy Next Door Dating My Nemesis208 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 29, 2019
Since reading The F Word, I've been really curious about Julian. After the tragic accident left his twin brother dead, things haven't been easy. Cooper was always the golden son and he was the one who always messed up. Being the one left behind (after not being able to save his own brother) has been a lot for him! When they look at him, they see Cooper.
Addison is a also a character we've seen in the previous books. It's clear they were all friends at first, but after the accident everything changed. She's dealing with the aftermath of the accident and a secret nobody knows and that's she not even clear on. Being a cheerleader has become her life and what her mother thinks she needs to do, but after getting injured, priorities start to change.
Both of them are using Peyton's No BS app and have found an anonymous friend to lean on. Their love of books keeps them going and talking to each other is something that helps keep them sane. Little do they know who they're actually talking to. I loved that the love of books what such an important part of this story. In many ways I think books were helping both of them through everything. That's just how magical books are.
I loved how much Julian grows in this book. He starts letting himself grieve and be okay with surviving. The night his brother died will always be a big thing, but he has as much right to be there as Cooper would. Cooper wasn't the sweet one everyone thought and that brings a lot of guilt for Julian. It was amazing to see him find his love of books and writing! I loved reading the little bits of the book he was writing!
Addison remembers the night that Cooper died as something bad. Things happened that night that she doesn't even want to admit. She's upset that he's gone and she can never confront him about it. On top of that, she's not really sure anymore that she wants to go to the college her parents want her to. Addison has changed and I love seeing her take control of what she wants. This even leads to an amazing heart to heart with her mother.
On top of amazing character development, we get some romance of course. Julian has always had a crush on Addison, but she was with Cooper. Addison can't look at Julian without seeing Cooper and remembering that awful night. They slowly start getting close and start healing. The fact that they're talking to each other online could break them apart? But does it? I loved how this romance wasn't so easy. There were many obstacles along the way.
The C Word is another emotional journey that shows the impact something horrific like this accident has on people. Things didn't solve themselves easily and we see the characters trying to find a new normal. They have a lot of healing to do and finding each other made that a little easier. A great ending to this trilogy and I loved that we got to see all the characters as well. These authors touch some sensitive subjects, but in an amazing way.
I'm sad this trilogy is complete, but am very excited that some of the characters I've come to love will be getting their own books. It's going to be very interesting to see what these authors do next!
Addison is a also a character we've seen in the previous books. It's clear they were all friends at first, but after the accident everything changed. She's dealing with the aftermath of the accident and a secret nobody knows and that's she not even clear on. Being a cheerleader has become her life and what her mother thinks she needs to do, but after getting injured, priorities start to change.
Both of them are using Peyton's No BS app and have found an anonymous friend to lean on. Their love of books keeps them going and talking to each other is something that helps keep them sane. Little do they know who they're actually talking to. I loved that the love of books what such an important part of this story. In many ways I think books were helping both of them through everything. That's just how magical books are.
I loved how much Julian grows in this book. He starts letting himself grieve and be okay with surviving. The night his brother died will always be a big thing, but he has as much right to be there as Cooper would. Cooper wasn't the sweet one everyone thought and that brings a lot of guilt for Julian. It was amazing to see him find his love of books and writing! I loved reading the little bits of the book he was writing!
Addison remembers the night that Cooper died as something bad. Things happened that night that she doesn't even want to admit. She's upset that he's gone and she can never confront him about it. On top of that, she's not really sure anymore that she wants to go to the college her parents want her to. Addison has changed and I love seeing her take control of what she wants. This even leads to an amazing heart to heart with her mother.
On top of amazing character development, we get some romance of course. Julian has always had a crush on Addison, but she was with Cooper. Addison can't look at Julian without seeing Cooper and remembering that awful night. They slowly start getting close and start healing. The fact that they're talking to each other online could break them apart? But does it? I loved how this romance wasn't so easy. There were many obstacles along the way.
The C Word is another emotional journey that shows the impact something horrific like this accident has on people. Things didn't solve themselves easily and we see the characters trying to find a new normal. They have a lot of healing to do and finding each other made that a little easier. A great ending to this trilogy and I loved that we got to see all the characters as well. These authors touch some sensitive subjects, but in an amazing way.
I'm sad this trilogy is complete, but am very excited that some of the characters I've come to love will be getting their own books. It's going to be very interesting to see what these authors do next!
July 15, 2019
I have been in a book slump for months. And it made me doubt.
I actually want to apologize to these authors for not believing. I wasn't in love with a character on page one and I faltered. But I was so wrong. I am a fangirl here, so you'll have to forgive me, but this slump is massive, and this book made me binge.
This is my new favorite in this series. The MMC Julian is amazing, and sweet and a little meta, and the plot device in the book (which I won't spoil here) was so fabulous. I want to mention my favorite quote, but I think it would give too much away.
This series is so sweet, yet so serious, and this one should probably have a tiny trigger warning, but if you have read the others the trigger is probably obvious.
I actually want to apologize to these authors for not believing. I wasn't in love with a character on page one and I faltered. But I was so wrong. I am a fangirl here, so you'll have to forgive me, but this slump is massive, and this book made me binge.
This is my new favorite in this series. The MMC Julian is amazing, and sweet and a little meta, and the plot device in the book (which I won't spoil here) was so fabulous. I want to mention my favorite quote, but I think it would give too much away.
This series is so sweet, yet so serious, and this one should probably have a tiny trigger warning, but if you have read the others the trigger is probably obvious.
July 22, 2019
*I received a free ARC of this book from the authors for my honest review.*
Oh, boy. Where to start� Like the first two books, I absolutely loved The C World. The authors have done such a good job at bringing real issues to life in a beautiful way. Each has had it’s own theme or problem that the characters deal with, but overall it’s about finding acceptance in oneself.
This story was a lot more emotional, in my opinion. Both characters are “broody,� and there is a lot of internal dark thoughts. While I’ve personally struggled with what the other characters face in this series, I haven’t ever had Addison’s experience. I think that’s why it hit me a little harder than most of the others. It’s an awful situation that I can only imagine. After two other books, I’m attached to these characters, and I don’t like to see my precious babies hurting. The sensitive subject was very well handled, though.
Julian was the more relatable one for me in this book. I’ve loved the “loner� since book one, and it was great being able to finally get inside his head. There were so many times, especially when he was thinking or talking about writing, that I thought, “Oh my gosh, is that me?� It was great! I loved seeing him grow as a character, both of them for that matter. And, of course, I got more of my precious Becks, who I somehow love even more now. I didn’t think that was possible.
This series was so so good (understatement)! I’m sad it’s over, but each book ended well. It’s definitely a re-read in the future/buy all the physical copies series. The characters were all written in a realistic, relatable way that really puts the reader into the story. I cannot wait for Becks book this fall!! I will absolutely continue reading both authors. If you like sweet contemporaries that deal with real issues, definitely check out these books.
*Full original review on Functionally Fictional.*
Oh, boy. Where to start� Like the first two books, I absolutely loved The C World. The authors have done such a good job at bringing real issues to life in a beautiful way. Each has had it’s own theme or problem that the characters deal with, but overall it’s about finding acceptance in oneself.
This story was a lot more emotional, in my opinion. Both characters are “broody,� and there is a lot of internal dark thoughts. While I’ve personally struggled with what the other characters face in this series, I haven’t ever had Addison’s experience. I think that’s why it hit me a little harder than most of the others. It’s an awful situation that I can only imagine. After two other books, I’m attached to these characters, and I don’t like to see my precious babies hurting. The sensitive subject was very well handled, though.
Julian was the more relatable one for me in this book. I’ve loved the “loner� since book one, and it was great being able to finally get inside his head. There were so many times, especially when he was thinking or talking about writing, that I thought, “Oh my gosh, is that me?� It was great! I loved seeing him grow as a character, both of them for that matter. And, of course, I got more of my precious Becks, who I somehow love even more now. I didn’t think that was possible.
This series was so so good (understatement)! I’m sad it’s over, but each book ended well. It’s definitely a re-read in the future/buy all the physical copies series. The characters were all written in a realistic, relatable way that really puts the reader into the story. I cannot wait for Becks book this fall!! I will absolutely continue reading both authors. If you like sweet contemporaries that deal with real issues, definitely check out these books.
*Full original review on Functionally Fictional.*
August 15, 2024
I loved Julian so much, he was amazing! I needed a little time to like Addison, but the more I read of her the more I liked her. They are also great together, I liked how they got together and to see them as a couple. This is one of the few books that hit me with emotions, I have never cried reading a book, but this one was very close. It was an amazing end to a great series.
January 9, 2023
No more mean girl
Does anyone else have a romance that started when you were both kids? I definitely believe that we never forget or completely "get over" our first love, but are romances like that truly real? I'm honestly curious.
Does anyone else have a romance that started when you were both kids? I definitely believe that we never forget or completely "get over" our first love, but are romances like that truly real? I'm honestly curious.
July 10, 2019
I gave this book 5 stars and I really loved it!
It is the third and last book in the “Redefining me� series about a group of friends coming from different places on the high school hierarchy. Cooper and Avery are football players and Addison is a cheerleader, Peyton (Coopers sister) is the “fat� girl, Julian (Coopers twin brother) is the loner, Cameron (Peyton’s best friend and love interest) the Olympic hope and Nari the quiet Asian nerd.
A drunk driving accident where Cooper dies tears them apart and Julian and Cameron leaves town for 18 month. Those left behind end in their respective hierarchys and get labeled and those lower in the hierarchy gets bullied by those highest on it.
This book is the perfect conclusion to the series “Redefining me� and is about Julian, the loner and outcast, and Addison, the cheerleader captain and one of the mean girls.
Julian was The golden boy Coopers twin brother. After the accident where Cooper died Julian leaves town and doesn’t return until 18 months later. He feels like he lives in the shadow of his dead brother and excludes himself from everybody else. But in the shadows he is a guitarist for “Anonymous�, the band with Nari, Becks and Wylder, he also reads romance novels and he has found a friendship with Litgirl over NO BS where they only talk about books.
He has always had a crush on Addison but she only saw Cooper.
Addison has since the accident lived in a nightmare. She knows something happened with Cooper that night but she can’t remember what because she was too drunk. Just that it was awful and scares her every time she sees his face. She didn’t know where she belonged but since she was a cheerleader, she chose those “friends� instead of her childhood friends.
She starts to see Julian in a new light but she is convinced she can’t be with him because he looks just like Cooper.
How can these two find themselves again? Can they help each other and maybe also figure out how to be together? And what will the future hold after high school for all the childhood friends?
It is an amazing, heartbreaking but also very heartwarming book about finding yourself in an environment where body shaming, bullying and social hierarchy is every day for the highschoolers and fighting for what you want when you feel everyone is against you.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is the third and last book in the “Redefining me� series about a group of friends coming from different places on the high school hierarchy. Cooper and Avery are football players and Addison is a cheerleader, Peyton (Coopers sister) is the “fat� girl, Julian (Coopers twin brother) is the loner, Cameron (Peyton’s best friend and love interest) the Olympic hope and Nari the quiet Asian nerd.
A drunk driving accident where Cooper dies tears them apart and Julian and Cameron leaves town for 18 month. Those left behind end in their respective hierarchys and get labeled and those lower in the hierarchy gets bullied by those highest on it.
This book is the perfect conclusion to the series “Redefining me� and is about Julian, the loner and outcast, and Addison, the cheerleader captain and one of the mean girls.
Julian was The golden boy Coopers twin brother. After the accident where Cooper died Julian leaves town and doesn’t return until 18 months later. He feels like he lives in the shadow of his dead brother and excludes himself from everybody else. But in the shadows he is a guitarist for “Anonymous�, the band with Nari, Becks and Wylder, he also reads romance novels and he has found a friendship with Litgirl over NO BS where they only talk about books.
He has always had a crush on Addison but she only saw Cooper.
Addison has since the accident lived in a nightmare. She knows something happened with Cooper that night but she can’t remember what because she was too drunk. Just that it was awful and scares her every time she sees his face. She didn’t know where she belonged but since she was a cheerleader, she chose those “friends� instead of her childhood friends.
She starts to see Julian in a new light but she is convinced she can’t be with him because he looks just like Cooper.
How can these two find themselves again? Can they help each other and maybe also figure out how to be together? And what will the future hold after high school for all the childhood friends?
It is an amazing, heartbreaking but also very heartwarming book about finding yourself in an environment where body shaming, bullying and social hierarchy is every day for the highschoolers and fighting for what you want when you feel everyone is against you.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2019
The C Word (Redefining Me Book 3) by Michelle MacQueen and Ann Maree Craven is a contemporary, small-town, young adult romance told in third person dual POV. The series follows a group of high school students dealing with the aftermath of a friend's death, each book focusing on two different characters in the group.
The C Word
tells Julian and Addison's story.
Julian Callahan and Addison Parker were friends until a tragic accident tore their group of friends apart. After his identical twin Cooper's funeral, Julian needed some time away and left town for eighteen months to live with his uncle. It's now approximately two years after the accident. Julian returned a few months ago and is in the middle of repeating his senior year at Twin Rivers High. He's a loner whose face reminds everyone of that terrible night they would rather forget. It's no wonder that his best friend is a faceless girl he met online.
Addison has done her best to put that horrific night behind her by distancing herself from everyone associated. She became the "It Girl" of Twin Rivers High - popular, captain of the cheerleading team, homecoming queen. When an ankle injury forces her to take a break from cheerleading, Addison finds it increasingly difficult to escape the painful memories she has suppressed for so long. Exhausted with the facade of the social spotlight, she looks forward to her talks with an anonymous online friend because she's able to just be herself.
Cooper was the town's "golden boy" but Addison and Julian both struggle with his death because they both have reason to hate him. Nobody else has a clue about what really happened that night before the accident. What will happen when the truth is finally revealed? And what about their anonymous online friendship? What will happen when Julian and Addison discover they've been talking to each other? Can their relationship survive the shock?
I really enjoyed this story. The characters were well-developed, relatable, and likeable. It beautifully explored the emotions experienced when dealing with a mixture of grief and trauma along with the self-discovery that comes with growing up. This series has so much depth and it seems like each book just gets better and better. I highly recommend it.
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
Julian Callahan and Addison Parker were friends until a tragic accident tore their group of friends apart. After his identical twin Cooper's funeral, Julian needed some time away and left town for eighteen months to live with his uncle. It's now approximately two years after the accident. Julian returned a few months ago and is in the middle of repeating his senior year at Twin Rivers High. He's a loner whose face reminds everyone of that terrible night they would rather forget. It's no wonder that his best friend is a faceless girl he met online.
Addison has done her best to put that horrific night behind her by distancing herself from everyone associated. She became the "It Girl" of Twin Rivers High - popular, captain of the cheerleading team, homecoming queen. When an ankle injury forces her to take a break from cheerleading, Addison finds it increasingly difficult to escape the painful memories she has suppressed for so long. Exhausted with the facade of the social spotlight, she looks forward to her talks with an anonymous online friend because she's able to just be herself.
Cooper was the town's "golden boy" but Addison and Julian both struggle with his death because they both have reason to hate him. Nobody else has a clue about what really happened that night before the accident. What will happen when the truth is finally revealed? And what about their anonymous online friendship? What will happen when Julian and Addison discover they've been talking to each other? Can their relationship survive the shock?
I really enjoyed this story. The characters were well-developed, relatable, and likeable. It beautifully explored the emotions experienced when dealing with a mixture of grief and trauma along with the self-discovery that comes with growing up. This series has so much depth and it seems like each book just gets better and better. I highly recommend it.
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
April 27, 2020
'Dating My Nemesis' by Michelle MacQueen and Ann Maree Craven is just as engaging as 'Dating My Best Friend' and 'Dating the Boy Next Door,' the two novels that come before it in the series. Mean girl Addison and loner Julian both were hurt by the loss of Cooper Callahan years before. Not only was Addison stuck on him, but Julian was his twin until the fateful day when he died. The book spends more time shedding light on Cooper's motives that night which led to the accident that killed him. Addison finds herself dealing with the repercussions of what happened when Cooper finally showed interest in her, and Julian deals with wearing his brother's face while being in love with the same girl that Cooper hurt so badly just before his death.
There is pain and heartache, but even more, there is truth, kindness, and understanding that stem from the honesty that Addison and Julian reveal to each other throughout the story. Even though that night tore their group apart and sent them all off in different directions, trying to deal with the accident in the only ways that allowed them to cope, they all share a bond that has thrust some of them back together and is seeming to bring Addison and Julian some of that same closure.
While Addison talks to an anonymous guy online about books, she finds that her life really isn't all it's cracked up to be, heading the cheerleading team and dealing with mean girls like her supposed best friend. She finds strength in old friends when she needs help most, and while Julian tries to tell himself he won't be there for her, he finds that it's hard to stay away from the girl he's always cared about, but hasn't been able to reveal his feelings to because of his brother, Cooper, who was always deemed the golden child.
With cameos from the other characters that make up the first two books in the series, and with a hearty helping of romance, upset, and coming to terms with the past, MacQueen and Craven have done it again. Any contemporary novel by these two should surely be on every YA romance reader's to-be-read list.
Beth Rodgers, Author of 'Welcome to Chanu-Con!,' a Children's Picture Book, and Freshman Fourteen' and 'Sweet Fifteen,' Young Adult Novels
*Review originally posted at YABooksCentral.com*
There is pain and heartache, but even more, there is truth, kindness, and understanding that stem from the honesty that Addison and Julian reveal to each other throughout the story. Even though that night tore their group apart and sent them all off in different directions, trying to deal with the accident in the only ways that allowed them to cope, they all share a bond that has thrust some of them back together and is seeming to bring Addison and Julian some of that same closure.
While Addison talks to an anonymous guy online about books, she finds that her life really isn't all it's cracked up to be, heading the cheerleading team and dealing with mean girls like her supposed best friend. She finds strength in old friends when she needs help most, and while Julian tries to tell himself he won't be there for her, he finds that it's hard to stay away from the girl he's always cared about, but hasn't been able to reveal his feelings to because of his brother, Cooper, who was always deemed the golden child.
With cameos from the other characters that make up the first two books in the series, and with a hearty helping of romance, upset, and coming to terms with the past, MacQueen and Craven have done it again. Any contemporary novel by these two should surely be on every YA romance reader's to-be-read list.
Beth Rodgers, Author of 'Welcome to Chanu-Con!,' a Children's Picture Book, and Freshman Fourteen' and 'Sweet Fifteen,' Young Adult Novels
*Review originally posted at YABooksCentral.com*
June 21, 2019
This series continues to get better and better. I have loved every story in this series so far. I've been wondering when Addison and Julian's story would come around ever since things were hinted at in the first book. I figured Addison wasn't actually who she was being portrayed as since she wasn't exactly like the rest of the girls she hung out with. She was being portrayed as a popular/mean cheerleader but that wasn't how it always was before the accident.
I really enjoyed her character though and was interested in seeing how she was as a person. She had great character development in this story as well. I love that these characters make me feel like I'm back in high school and come off so accurate. Especially with the cliques; the nerds, the cheerleaders, the odd mix of friends.
I have definitely been waiting for Julian's story also since it was his twin brother that died in the accident and then he leaves town for 18 months; before coming back and going back to school with the rest of his friends that are dealing with the aftermath of the accident.
I loved the chemistry between the two characters but I felt bad for Addison and everything she was going through. She had to be super brave/strong to be able to look at Julian and talk to him after what happened with Cooper and how much they look alike. It also didn't help that she had an accident with the ski lift and then couldn't compete in cheerleading after being captain and getting the girls to the top; so things definitely weren't going well for her but she was still going to school and dealing with life. I'm so glad Julian was there also and could ease Addison's mind about things even if it was a few years later.
I thought Julian's story was interesting and I was not expecting that from him at all but then again I don't think anyone was expecting that. I'm glad they had each other though even though they didn't realize it until the end. I thought the ending was really good and I'm excited to see what happens with Becks and Nicky/Kenny!
I really enjoyed her character though and was interested in seeing how she was as a person. She had great character development in this story as well. I love that these characters make me feel like I'm back in high school and come off so accurate. Especially with the cliques; the nerds, the cheerleaders, the odd mix of friends.
I have definitely been waiting for Julian's story also since it was his twin brother that died in the accident and then he leaves town for 18 months; before coming back and going back to school with the rest of his friends that are dealing with the aftermath of the accident.
I loved the chemistry between the two characters but I felt bad for Addison and everything she was going through. She had to be super brave/strong to be able to look at Julian and talk to him after what happened with Cooper and how much they look alike. It also didn't help that she had an accident with the ski lift and then couldn't compete in cheerleading after being captain and getting the girls to the top; so things definitely weren't going well for her but she was still going to school and dealing with life. I'm so glad Julian was there also and could ease Addison's mind about things even if it was a few years later.
I thought Julian's story was interesting and I was not expecting that from him at all but then again I don't think anyone was expecting that. I'm glad they had each other though even though they didn't realize it until the end. I thought the ending was really good and I'm excited to see what happens with Becks and Nicky/Kenny!
July 12, 2019
This is the final book in this enlightening YA series, but hopefully not the last collaboration we will see from these two amazing authors. Each of these true to life books are enthralling stand-alone novels, though they are a joy to read in order. Follow the tumultuous changes each of a small group of close friends goes through after one event changes all their lives.
Out of the entire group that used to be such close friends, Addison may have been the one to change the most after the night of a fateful Christmas Eve party, and the death of one of their own. That night holds even more trauma for Addison than the others. It changed her, took away her self-confidence To Addison the survivors are only ex-friends, part of a past she’d rather forget.
Addison went from being a popular, friendly cheerleader, head of the squad, to queen of the mean girls. Her eyes skate by her old friends, but her strongest sense of loss is herself. Recently Addison feels like her life is nothing more than a performance, doing what each different person demands of her. Her mother, once a cheerleader herself, pushes Addy into a cheer career only her mother is interested in. Her new friends expect her to relentlessly bully those beneath their high school social strata. The boy who has always loved her is one she can’t even see.
The only real joy in her life is from the No BS web app created to give students a safe place to be themselves and support others. Everyone there is anonymous. Yet it is the one place Addison may be seen for who she truly is. Her online BookBoy seems to really understand her. They trade reading lists and discuss their opinions. Too bad she will never know who this person is. That would be risking too much.
What would she think if she realized her online friend was someone she already knows? What could happen if there was someone in the real world who could understand her and accept her for herself? Would even that allow Addison to heal? Will this group forever be divided by their shared past?
Out of the entire group that used to be such close friends, Addison may have been the one to change the most after the night of a fateful Christmas Eve party, and the death of one of their own. That night holds even more trauma for Addison than the others. It changed her, took away her self-confidence To Addison the survivors are only ex-friends, part of a past she’d rather forget.
Addison went from being a popular, friendly cheerleader, head of the squad, to queen of the mean girls. Her eyes skate by her old friends, but her strongest sense of loss is herself. Recently Addison feels like her life is nothing more than a performance, doing what each different person demands of her. Her mother, once a cheerleader herself, pushes Addy into a cheer career only her mother is interested in. Her new friends expect her to relentlessly bully those beneath their high school social strata. The boy who has always loved her is one she can’t even see.
The only real joy in her life is from the No BS web app created to give students a safe place to be themselves and support others. Everyone there is anonymous. Yet it is the one place Addison may be seen for who she truly is. Her online BookBoy seems to really understand her. They trade reading lists and discuss their opinions. Too bad she will never know who this person is. That would be risking too much.
What would she think if she realized her online friend was someone she already knows? What could happen if there was someone in the real world who could understand her and accept her for herself? Would even that allow Addison to heal? Will this group forever be divided by their shared past?
July 11, 2019
This book wraps up the story of the six teens that were intimately involved in a car crash that killed one of their group. The authors did an excellent job of wrapping up the various loose threads in the previous books as well as what happened in this book. We finally got to see the whole picture of what happened on that fateful night; Addison’s and Julian’s parts fleshed it all out. I was pleased to see a friendship renewed in this story; this was wholly separate from the romance. Addison and Julian's story didn't feel like it had quite as much depth as the first two books of the series, but the authors did still address some very weighty issues in this book, including sexual assault, bullying, peer pressure, and drunk driving. I hadn't liked Addison in the other books because of the way she treated her former friend Peyton, but this book goes a long way to show how and why Addison changed. I absolutely loved Julian in this book. Honestly, he has intrigued me in the little part he played in each previous book because he seemed to be such a quiet, thoughtful, and helpful young man. I absolutely adored that his way of coping with all that happened was writing a romance story—one in which he could take the hero's role and create a happy ending that was harder for him to attain in real life. What a delightful and good metaphor! I enjoyed how Julian and Addison's relationship deepened in real life while they were carrying on an anonymous online relationship as well. In the latter, neither knew that it was the other that they were chatting with. Again, another well-done book in this series. I think that this series could do with one or two books more, one focusing on Becks (who is such an interesting character) and one focusing on Meghan (because I think she needs to learn a lesson or two about life!).
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at .
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at .
August 5, 2019
Addison and Julian have history between them that neither like to talk about. Things changed after that fateful night of the accident that took Julian's twins life. Addison had always liked Cooper and Julian liked Addison. It was a love triangle that could never have a happy ending, especially after that night at the party. It left Addison scarred and made her pull away from everyone.
Addison becomes one of the popular girls and the head cheerleader. When she hurts her ankle, she's forced to sit out of cheerleading and her "friend" Meghan loves the chance to swoop in an steal Addison's title. As time goes on, Addison realizes her thoughts are shifting and those who she thought were her friends actually aren't.
Then, there's Julian. He always seems to be there when Addison needs him, but she can't stop seeing Cooper every time she looks at him. Cooper still haunts her nightmares and seeing Julian doesn't make things harder. But the more time she spends with him, the more she realizes how different from his brother he really is.
THE C WORD is a great read for fans of contemporary romance with all the feels. This book will tear at your heart and heal it at the same time. It's a story about finding yourself and discovering what true friends are. I've always loved Julian's character so it was nice to learn more about him and why he didn't like his brother.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of contemporary romance, emotional reads, and sensitive topics.
This review can also be found on YABC:
Addison becomes one of the popular girls and the head cheerleader. When she hurts her ankle, she's forced to sit out of cheerleading and her "friend" Meghan loves the chance to swoop in an steal Addison's title. As time goes on, Addison realizes her thoughts are shifting and those who she thought were her friends actually aren't.
Then, there's Julian. He always seems to be there when Addison needs him, but she can't stop seeing Cooper every time she looks at him. Cooper still haunts her nightmares and seeing Julian doesn't make things harder. But the more time she spends with him, the more she realizes how different from his brother he really is.
THE C WORD is a great read for fans of contemporary romance with all the feels. This book will tear at your heart and heal it at the same time. It's a story about finding yourself and discovering what true friends are. I've always loved Julian's character so it was nice to learn more about him and why he didn't like his brother.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of contemporary romance, emotional reads, and sensitive topics.
This review can also be found on YABC:
July 17, 2019
This three-book series, in the space of a few months, has become one of my favorite YA contemporary series of all time. With these two fantabulous writers at the helm, it's easy to see why.
Over a year before, Julian lost his twin brother Cooper in a tragic accident, and all people see when they look at him is a walking ghost, even though the two could not have been more different. Addison, Cooper's ex-girlfriend, is still trying to discover who she is in the wake of it all.
In this book, "C" stands for Cheerleader, which brings up stereotypical images of ditzy or mean popular girls who socialize exclusively with the jocks. Addy doesn't fit that mold - at least, not in her own mind. While traversing the stormy sea of her mother's expectations, her recuperation from injury, and her lingering attraction to Cooper's way-different twin brother, Addy finds a way through that I totally did not expect. But I loved it.
This series should be a must read for mid- to high teens. The way it deals with pushing past stereotypes and shattering cliques and being more than others expect is timely, relevant, and awe-inspiring.
Over a year before, Julian lost his twin brother Cooper in a tragic accident, and all people see when they look at him is a walking ghost, even though the two could not have been more different. Addison, Cooper's ex-girlfriend, is still trying to discover who she is in the wake of it all.
In this book, "C" stands for Cheerleader, which brings up stereotypical images of ditzy or mean popular girls who socialize exclusively with the jocks. Addy doesn't fit that mold - at least, not in her own mind. While traversing the stormy sea of her mother's expectations, her recuperation from injury, and her lingering attraction to Cooper's way-different twin brother, Addy finds a way through that I totally did not expect. But I loved it.
This series should be a must read for mid- to high teens. The way it deals with pushing past stereotypes and shattering cliques and being more than others expect is timely, relevant, and awe-inspiring.
August 6, 2019
This three-book series, in the space of a few months, has become one of my favorite YA contemporary series of all time. With these two fantabulous writers at the helm, it's easy to see why.
Over a year before, Julian lost his twin brother Cooper in a tragic accident, and all people see when they look at him is a walking ghost, even though the two could not have been more different. Addison, Cooper's ex-girlfriend, is still trying to discover who she is in the wake of it all.
In this book, "C" stands for Cheerleader, which brings up stereotypical images of ditzy or mean popular girls who socialize exclusively with the jocks. Addy doesn't fit that mold - at least, not in her own mind. While traversing the stormy sea of her mother's expectations, her recuperation from injury, and her lingering attraction to Cooper's way-different twin brother, Addy finds a way through that I totally did not expect. But I loved it.
This series should be a must read for mid- to high teens. The way it deals with pushing past stereotypes and shattering cliques and being more than others expect is timely, relevant, and awe-inspiring.
Over a year before, Julian lost his twin brother Cooper in a tragic accident, and all people see when they look at him is a walking ghost, even though the two could not have been more different. Addison, Cooper's ex-girlfriend, is still trying to discover who she is in the wake of it all.
In this book, "C" stands for Cheerleader, which brings up stereotypical images of ditzy or mean popular girls who socialize exclusively with the jocks. Addy doesn't fit that mold - at least, not in her own mind. While traversing the stormy sea of her mother's expectations, her recuperation from injury, and her lingering attraction to Cooper's way-different twin brother, Addy finds a way through that I totally did not expect. But I loved it.
This series should be a must read for mid- to high teens. The way it deals with pushing past stereotypes and shattering cliques and being more than others expect is timely, relevant, and awe-inspiring.
July 1, 2019
Oh what a great ending!!! I was so happy reading the other two instalments of this series and this was the cherry on top!!
I was so excited to read about Addie and Julian! I was thrilled to find out what really happened and get to the bottom of that fateful night.
The characters are so well rounded and relatable. They have horrible scars and heavy baggage just like all of us. The journey that they take was a long messy road but it was so wonderful.
The twists and turns of this book will hook you from the first page. I read this in one day and would happily re-read it again and again!
The authors have done an amazing job with telling this story. I definitely felt like I was right there in the middle of the story. The details were covered and the wit and banter will make you laugh out loud. The characters from the previous books make appearances in this one and it all ties up with a final ending.
I wish this group of friends good luck in their future and maybe pop by to catch us up!!!
I was so excited to read about Addie and Julian! I was thrilled to find out what really happened and get to the bottom of that fateful night.
The characters are so well rounded and relatable. They have horrible scars and heavy baggage just like all of us. The journey that they take was a long messy road but it was so wonderful.
The twists and turns of this book will hook you from the first page. I read this in one day and would happily re-read it again and again!
The authors have done an amazing job with telling this story. I definitely felt like I was right there in the middle of the story. The details were covered and the wit and banter will make you laugh out loud. The characters from the previous books make appearances in this one and it all ties up with a final ending.
I wish this group of friends good luck in their future and maybe pop by to catch us up!!!
July 11, 2019
This was another great addition to the Redefining Me Series.
This story is about Addison and Julian. It gives their perspectives and completes the picture so the reader knows what really happened the night Cooper died. It explains so much. This story, like the others, is well written and easy to follow. The main characters are believable and will steal your heart as they struggle to find who they truly are in their world.
I found Addison's mother to be disturbing. I just couldn't wrap my head around her idea of parenting, despite her layers being peeled away to reveal more of her character. Meghan reached a new low in this story. I did like the ending and thought it should promise of the future for all the main characters. Though I feel like Becks deserves a story too. I look forward to reading more works by these authors and this is definitely a series that I would recommend!!
I received a free copy from BookSprout. My review is freely given and is my own opinion.
This story is about Addison and Julian. It gives their perspectives and completes the picture so the reader knows what really happened the night Cooper died. It explains so much. This story, like the others, is well written and easy to follow. The main characters are believable and will steal your heart as they struggle to find who they truly are in their world.
I found Addison's mother to be disturbing. I just couldn't wrap my head around her idea of parenting, despite her layers being peeled away to reveal more of her character. Meghan reached a new low in this story. I did like the ending and thought it should promise of the future for all the main characters. Though I feel like Becks deserves a story too. I look forward to reading more works by these authors and this is definitely a series that I would recommend!!
I received a free copy from BookSprout. My review is freely given and is my own opinion.
June 20, 2019
I received a free copy for an honest review. I loved this book so much. In a way, I think I liked it better than the first two because it felt more honest and raw and I really like broody guys. Julian is one of the better book boyfriends that every girl should have. He's sweet, loyal, and honest (for the most part). I got to see Addie in a completely different light and I loved her all the more for it. On the outside, she's this popular cheerleader but on the inside she's more like me. I related to the real her so hard. I like how the rest of the characters' stories get added on to with each book and they're not completely forgotten about. This one had me in my feelings. I laughed, I cried, and I shouted at my kindle screen. This series is great and I will miss each and every one of them. This series is a legit must-read!!!!
July 12, 2019
Sweet, romantic and swoon worthy
The sweetest of all the parts of Redefining Me I've read so far. It's very heart-warming and what I really liked was that main characters gave strength to each other to go back to their truly self. This book made me think and made me look at my own life and see if what I'm doing is really what I want to. And I'm no teenager, far way into adulthood already. But taking different perspective on your own life really get me thinking.
I enjoy books that give feels, make me think, move my heart and stir emotions. And this book gave me all that I was looking for and more. This is very well written, thought through and it closed nicely all open threads from previous two books. There's not much angst, less drama and no heartbreaking, heart shattering moments. Fantastic read and great series!
The sweetest of all the parts of Redefining Me I've read so far. It's very heart-warming and what I really liked was that main characters gave strength to each other to go back to their truly self. This book made me think and made me look at my own life and see if what I'm doing is really what I want to. And I'm no teenager, far way into adulthood already. But taking different perspective on your own life really get me thinking.
I enjoy books that give feels, make me think, move my heart and stir emotions. And this book gave me all that I was looking for and more. This is very well written, thought through and it closed nicely all open threads from previous two books. There's not much angst, less drama and no heartbreaking, heart shattering moments. Fantastic read and great series!
June 20, 2019
Another great installment in the Redefining Me series. This book continues on with how the death of a friend/loved one affects all the people around them. This book delves into the question of even though someone is dead is it ok to hate them for how they were in life? That is what the characters in this book are dealing with. I absolutely loved this story of dealing with a death while trying to figure out who you are and what you want to do with your life. I highly recommend this book and the series to anyone. This series may be in the YA category but it is a story that anyone at any age can relate to.
June 20, 2019
A fantastic Series. A death of a Class Mates affect his friends and family and each book in this series tells of there story. The Author has done a fantastic job at the World Building as well as the Characters emotions. I feel like I am right there watching the Characters go through these emotions. This to me is definitely a best seller or should be. The work done on this read is fantastic from first page to last and would make for a great series. It also pulls at the heart strings in so many ways. Its a real page turner. I could not put the book down until I finished it. This is definitely a Must read. The Author has really hit a home run.
Shauna Joesten
Shauna Joesten
August 31, 2019
I was so excited to go all hear Addison and Julian's story and what they've been feeling and dealing with since the horrible accident that took Julian's brother, Cooper. I loved that both Addison, the popular cheerleader, and Julian, the loner, are both closeted book nerds. Addison, just like her former friends, is trying to figure out how to handle the memories of the accident that took Cooper away from them all. She has always had trouble looking at Julian and he always thought it was because he looked like his twin, Cooper. But now we find out the real reason why. This book just shows that you never know what someone is going through or what they've gone through in the past.
July 13, 2019
This is the final book in the trilogy, but apparently there's a book about Becks coming up! This book is SO good, and focuses on Addison and Julian's stories. We finally find out what happened to Addison on the night that changed everything. Both characters become more true to themselves throughout the book, so a good amount of character development. The timeline in this book intermingles with the second book, the N Word, so a few times I went back to the N Word to refresh my memory of when certain events happened. A great wrap-up for the ending as well! I absolutely loved this trilogy!
July 12, 2019
This was my favorite so far of this set, mostly because I love girl-jerks and slowly unfolding redemption stories. Addie's character piqued my interest from The F Word, and I've been waiting for her story to come around. it did not disappoint. I love the complexity and tragedy written in her character and the way her story with Julian unfolds. I read this book in a few hours, alternately cursing and praising Michelle's name, but I was ultimately so happy with the outcome!
July 12, 2019
Addie and Julian are my favorite.
The whole story at last. We find out everything that happened that night.
Julian and Addie have shouldered the biggest burden of the group over the last two years and their story is ladened with insight, forgiveness, and growth. I am so glad they came into their own.
Try to the Redefining Me series this book gives you all the feels.
The whole story at last. We find out everything that happened that night.
Julian and Addie have shouldered the biggest burden of the group over the last two years and their story is ladened with insight, forgiveness, and growth. I am so glad they came into their own.
Try to the Redefining Me series this book gives you all the feels.
August 1, 2019
It doesn't matter what name Michele MacQueen writes under, I really enjoy what's between the covers. This is no exception, with the often used plot of two teens falling for each other through anonymous online interactions, but being terrified of meeting in real life. It works particularly well here, making the story a fast and very satisfying read.
July 19, 2019
Such a wonderful series
I loved this book as much as the other two. Worth the read for sure and it has a powerful message of healing.
I loved this book as much as the other two. Worth the read for sure and it has a powerful message of healing.
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