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Slammed #1
Slammed
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Goodreads Author (2012), Nominee for Readers' Favorite Young Adult Fiction (2012)Following the unexpected death of her father, 18-year-old Layken is forced to be the rock for both her mother and younger brother. Outwardly, she appears resilient and tenacious, but inwardly, she's losing hope.
Enter Will Cooper: The attractive, 21-year-old new neighbor with an intriguing passion for slam poetry and a unique sense of humor. Within days of their introduction, Will and Layken form an intense emotional connection, leaving Layken with a renewed sense of hope.
Not long after an intense, heart-stopping first date, they are slammed to the core when a shocking revelation forces their new relationship to a sudden halt. Daily interactions become impossibly painful as they struggle to find a balance between the feelings that pull them together, and the secret that keeps them apart.
Enter Will Cooper: The attractive, 21-year-old new neighbor with an intriguing passion for slam poetry and a unique sense of humor. Within days of their introduction, Will and Layken form an intense emotional connection, leaving Layken with a renewed sense of hope.
Not long after an intense, heart-stopping first date, they are slammed to the core when a shocking revelation forces their new relationship to a sudden halt. Daily interactions become impossibly painful as they struggle to find a balance between the feelings that pull them together, and the secret that keeps them apart.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2012
About the author
Colleen Hoover
107 books736k followersInternational and #1 New York Times bestselling author of romance, YA, thriller, women's fiction and paranormal romance.
I don't like to be confined to one genre. If you put me in a box, I'll claw my way out.
My social media username is @colleenhoover pretty much everywhere except my email, which is colleenhooverbooks@gmail.com
Founder of www.thebookwormbox.com charity and Book Bonanza.
I don't like to be confined to one genre. If you put me in a box, I'll claw my way out.
My social media username is @colleenhoover pretty much everywhere except my email, which is colleenhooverbooks@gmail.com
Founder of www.thebookwormbox.com charity and Book Bonanza.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 26,468 reviews
December 1, 2012
Dhak dhak dhak....
do you hear that?
That's the sound of my heart beating as I finish the book...
Dhak dhak dhak.....
do you hear that?
That's the sound of my heart chanting "I wish this would never end".
Shush shush shush....
do you hear that?
That's the sound of my lips trying to form words enough to express what I feel....
Right now I'm thinking I so wish this story was real...
Will made me fall in love with him
Lake and Julia made me cry
Kel and Caulder were adorable
Eddie was like the fourth of july [ meaning sparkling, full of life....sorry, know you get that :) ]
Gavin.....Oh Gavin... "Can I have a 'Pre-Proposal' too?" [Eddie would probably have scratched my eyes out for this or perhaps just laughed at the ridiculousness of it - I'm hoping for the latter ;) ]
It's hard to put my feelings into words
But I guess a person run over by a freight train of emotions can't be expected to say everything at once
Words are trying to spew forth out of me in short bursts
So let me tell you a story of a boy and a girl
They meet in a U-haul, they fall in love
They go on a date playing "would you rather" along the way
He takes her to a slam and boy does she get slammed
So would you be, so better be prepared.
Then comes the part which tears them apart
And it really does suck and breaks your heart :(
They can't be together, yet can't live without each other
Trust me this not just some Quintessential romance
Devastating things get revealed at an alarming rate
But through all of it they are there for each other, always holding hands.
Perhaps I have not been able to express anything in a coherent way
But don't expect me to because I'm discombobulated and it'll be a miracle if I find my way to Sleep land
And anyway that's not the point
The point is.....
It's easy to have books in your life
Ever wanted to have life in your books?
Well then all you need to do is get Slammed
Don't take life too seriously. Punch it in the face when it needs a good hit. Laugh at it. And Never regret.
do you hear that?
That's the sound of my heart beating as I finish the book...
Dhak dhak dhak.....
do you hear that?
That's the sound of my heart chanting "I wish this would never end".
Shush shush shush....
do you hear that?
That's the sound of my lips trying to form words enough to express what I feel....
Right now I'm thinking I so wish this story was real...
Will made me fall in love with him
Lake and Julia made me cry
Kel and Caulder were adorable
Eddie was like the fourth of july [ meaning sparkling, full of life....sorry, know you get that :) ]
Gavin.....Oh Gavin... "Can I have a 'Pre-Proposal' too?" [Eddie would probably have scratched my eyes out for this or perhaps just laughed at the ridiculousness of it - I'm hoping for the latter ;) ]
It's hard to put my feelings into words
But I guess a person run over by a freight train of emotions can't be expected to say everything at once
Words are trying to spew forth out of me in short bursts
So let me tell you a story of a boy and a girl
They meet in a U-haul, they fall in love
They go on a date playing "would you rather" along the way
He takes her to a slam and boy does she get slammed
So would you be, so better be prepared.
Then comes the part which tears them apart
And it really does suck and breaks your heart :(
They can't be together, yet can't live without each other
Trust me this not just some Quintessential romance
Devastating things get revealed at an alarming rate
But through all of it they are there for each other, always holding hands.
Perhaps I have not been able to express anything in a coherent way
But don't expect me to because I'm discombobulated and it'll be a miracle if I find my way to Sleep land
And anyway that's not the point
The point is.....
It's easy to have books in your life
Ever wanted to have life in your books?
Well then all you need to do is get Slammed
Don't take life too seriously. Punch it in the face when it needs a good hit. Laugh at it. And Never regret.
Read
May 23, 2016Can the author possibly add a few more words in italics because I don't think we got enough.
August 12, 2017
Brb crying from love and heartbreak because of this book
September 10, 2016
Wanted to love it, but this is not my kind of romance. Not even for a YA romance.
SLAMMED was angsty teenage love story with a heart wrenching sub-plot, but the heroine made it a very disappointing read. I expected a more mature minded heroine, not an overly emotional girl who thinks a mad boy crush after one date is the 'real thing'. The whole high school giggly student bit was a turn off for me.
I liked Will a lot, and thought his maturity and love for poetry was well portrayed, but I didn't get the connection with Layken. She made dumb choices, said dumb comments, put him at risk, and made everything be about her. Personally, I thought the author did a great job of developing a typical 18 y/o girl, but it only emphasized her lack of maturity as a lead heroine.
This would have worked for me in a more adult setting, but the the teenage angst was over done. At times she was a drama queen only focused on herself, and she had no concept of how others felt. Then other times shes a silly giggly high schooler. Either way, I didn't buy her as a convincing heroine.
The subplot was very good and emotional, but it was great wallpaper only. The romance needs to stand on its own, not be carried by a secondary storyline.
SLAMMED is a teenage girl fantasy romance story, so it doesn't surprise me at how popular it is. But I'd prefer to read about more mature minded couples falling in love, so this one didn't cut it for me.
March 15, 2022
I hated this book. JUST KIDDING!
Let's start with Lake (I feel like I can call her Lake since I know her so well). Many authors-huge, famous authors-write characters that make me roll my eyes...scrunch up my nose...close the book and not miss them-EVER. Lake was not one of those characters. She was literary flesh and bone. She was "cool" and funny and deep. Most of all, I believed she was eighteen. We all know what Will was, so I won't go there.
Maybe I WILL
I want him
You know what else I want? Accolades for another rising Indie author that wrote a novel better than 99.9% of the novels on the shelves. The writing was flawless. Her characters were perfectly imperfect and funny. So funny.
I am a notorious book snob. I read only the best, I recommend only the best. I cannot say enough about both the creativity, originality and depth of Slammed. A book that surely rises above all of its competition and SLAMS them in the face. I would urge Colleen Hoover to keep writing stories and creating characters for those of us who are death to sick of boring, insipid characters. I feel so clever for finding this author.
Or maybe Colleen is the clever one, because this book has set itself so far apart authors will be trying to catch it for years.
Let's start with Lake (I feel like I can call her Lake since I know her so well). Many authors-huge, famous authors-write characters that make me roll my eyes...scrunch up my nose...close the book and not miss them-EVER. Lake was not one of those characters. She was literary flesh and bone. She was "cool" and funny and deep. Most of all, I believed she was eighteen. We all know what Will was, so I won't go there.
Maybe I WILL
I want him
You know what else I want? Accolades for another rising Indie author that wrote a novel better than 99.9% of the novels on the shelves. The writing was flawless. Her characters were perfectly imperfect and funny. So funny.
I am a notorious book snob. I read only the best, I recommend only the best. I cannot say enough about both the creativity, originality and depth of Slammed. A book that surely rises above all of its competition and SLAMS them in the face. I would urge Colleen Hoover to keep writing stories and creating characters for those of us who are death to sick of boring, insipid characters. I feel so clever for finding this author.
Or maybe Colleen is the clever one, because this book has set itself so far apart authors will be trying to catch it for years.
December 8, 2013
I am conducting what I'm shelving as a "New Adult (NA) Experiment". I'm going to work my way through some of the popular New Adult books and see if I can weed out the crap and hopefully find some surprising gems. Here's hoping!
It's been a while, my friends. I had to take a break for the sake of my sanity. I decided to return to the NA experiment with Slammed because I'd heard it was less offensive than Hoover's later novel - Hopeless - and also because I've had luck with a NA student/teacher romance in the past (Unteachable). Alas, I was wrong to be so optimistic. I suppose that Slammed is less offensive when compared to the creepy pro-stalker ideas being thrown around in Hopeless but it certainly makes up for it by being an example of terrible writing. Where Hopeless offered entertainment and sexual tension that made it obvious where its popularity came from, I am honestly confused by all the positive reactions to Slammed.
I do think if I'd read this book first I might have at least appreciated the improvement in quality of the author's writing by the time she wrote Hopeless. In this, Hoover's writing is a couple steps below average and looks even less impressive when compared to the fantastic teacher/student romance in Unteachable (and it's beautiful writing). The author struggles with the build-up of the relationship between Layken and Will, forgetting about sexual tension and/or chemistry and jumping too quickly from their meeting to some extremely cheesy moments. The drama is constant but handled roughly - making scenes that should be heart-breaking feel emotionally manipulative and causing me to roll my eyes rather than to burst into tears.
Both characters, as well as the book in general, lack any emotional maturity. Layken frequently behaves like a bratty little kid, slamming doors and calling Will names. I really had no patience for her childish antics. Though, Will wasn't much better. He would constantly lead Layken on and then blame it on a moment of weakness. More than once.
It was cringy and stupid because the reader is well aware that it wasn't a moment of weakness and that he actually wants to be with Layken but he's being an immature idiot and not to mention a complete fucking tease. Just sayin'.
Aside from the writing being awful, the real problem in this for me was the failure to convince me that there was any real barrier to Layken and Will's relationship. Perhaps it was because their ages were too close to give me any sense of the forbidden or because Will wasn't exactly a "real" teacher, but nothing about it got my heart pounding like Raeder's Unteachable. It seemed more like there was no problem except the one the two of them created in their little melodramatic minds. Angst for the sake of angst. But I wasn't buying it. I think it's fair to say that me and Ms Hoover finally part ways for good.
October 19, 2012
MOVIE NEWS!!! ---> Both SLAMMED and POINT OF RETREAT have been optioned by a MOVIE producer!!!!!!!
WOW! 6 stars!! What a beautiful and powerful book! Definitely a MUST read!!
I loved this book for so many reasons... I loved that Will and Lake were wonderfully refreshing hero and heroine characters because they were realistic, smart, not annoying in any way and didn't make stupid decisions. I loved the author's writing style - its very simple but very powerful and its one of those books that really makes you feel what is going on with the characters.
I was completely and utterly shocked to find that I loved the Slam poetry. Boy is it powerful (I know I've used that word a lot here but it seems to be the best of that fits what I'm feeling). I've always hated poetry - was never able to absorb it or relate to it but in this book, it is so effecting in giving the reader a view of what is going on in the characters' head and heart.
I loved the intensity of Will and Lake's feelings for each other. I had butterflies in my stomach for most of the book and could stop turning the pages.
This book brought me to tears more than once. And my cheeks were damp throughout the whole final 10% or so. Loved it!!!
This book is about love and loss and life and death (not the death of the hero/heroine though, fear not lol).
I'd highly highly recommend it to pretty much anyone and everyone who loves to read.
Now I understand what all the fuss was about - everywhere I looked here, people were raving about it and now I'm joining that club!
I'm off to go read the sequel now - I can't wait to read more about Will and Lake...
Here's a slam quote:
I got schooled this year
by
a
Boy.
a boy that I'm seriously,
deeply, madly, incredibly,
and undeniably in love
with.
And he taught me the most
important thing of all ...
To put the emphasis
On life.
My version of Will from Slammed:
For more of my reviews, visit Aestas Book Blog
And come join the Aestas Book Blog Facebook Page
WOW! 6 stars!! What a beautiful and powerful book! Definitely a MUST read!!
I loved this book for so many reasons... I loved that Will and Lake were wonderfully refreshing hero and heroine characters because they were realistic, smart, not annoying in any way and didn't make stupid decisions. I loved the author's writing style - its very simple but very powerful and its one of those books that really makes you feel what is going on with the characters.
I was completely and utterly shocked to find that I loved the Slam poetry. Boy is it powerful (I know I've used that word a lot here but it seems to be the best of that fits what I'm feeling). I've always hated poetry - was never able to absorb it or relate to it but in this book, it is so effecting in giving the reader a view of what is going on in the characters' head and heart.
I loved the intensity of Will and Lake's feelings for each other. I had butterflies in my stomach for most of the book and could stop turning the pages.
This book brought me to tears more than once. And my cheeks were damp throughout the whole final 10% or so. Loved it!!!
This book is about love and loss and life and death (not the death of the hero/heroine though, fear not lol).
I'd highly highly recommend it to pretty much anyone and everyone who loves to read.
Now I understand what all the fuss was about - everywhere I looked here, people were raving about it and now I'm joining that club!
I'm off to go read the sequel now - I can't wait to read more about Will and Lake...
Here's a slam quote:
I got schooled this year
by
a
Boy.
a boy that I'm seriously,
deeply, madly, incredibly,
and undeniably in love
with.
And he taught me the most
important thing of all ...
To put the emphasis
On life.
My version of Will from Slammed:
For more of my reviews, visit Aestas Book Blog
And come join the Aestas Book Blog Facebook Page
October 8, 2021
5 stars
Slammed is one of those books that is completely unforgettable for me. It was one of my first Indie books I read years ago and for some reason this week, I got the itch to re-read it. Sometimes when I read a book for the second time, I feel different about it. I like it more than the first time, or I realize it wasn’t as good as I thought it was… with Slammed, it was exactly as I remember it. Unique, beautiful, inspiring and compelling. There are so many parts that made me think YES. This is what reading is about. This is what life is about. It’s a book that makes me remember why I love to read so much. Slammed will always hold a special place in my heart, it was my first CoHo book after all ;)
Don’t take life too seriously. Punch it in the face when it needs a good hit. Laugh at it.
Slammed is one of those books that is completely unforgettable for me. It was one of my first Indie books I read years ago and for some reason this week, I got the itch to re-read it. Sometimes when I read a book for the second time, I feel different about it. I like it more than the first time, or I realize it wasn’t as good as I thought it was… with Slammed, it was exactly as I remember it. Unique, beautiful, inspiring and compelling. There are so many parts that made me think YES. This is what reading is about. This is what life is about. It’s a book that makes me remember why I love to read so much. Slammed will always hold a special place in my heart, it was my first CoHo book after all ;)
So, you keep your ocean.
I’ll take the lake.
Read
December 4, 2013Awesome. Must read! I devoured this book. The story sucks you in and doesn't let you go. Adore Colleen Hoover and must read more of her.
June 9, 2023
Well damn.
August 15, 2016
Idk why I keep reading Colleen Hoover when I know I won't like her. Actually, I do know why. I read this book in like 12 hours because it's so addicting. Even though it was so lame and cliché and the characters are infuriating and this plot was such a mess and I don't like her books.
UGH maybe someday (haha) i'll read an actually good colleen hoover book.
this one didn't even have sex in it what was the point
UGH maybe someday (haha) i'll read an actually good colleen hoover book.
November 5, 2022
colleen hoover can do no wrong in my eyes. even when i managed to accidentally spoil some key plot components for myself before reading this, i still enjoyed every single page.
yes, i have a few more critiques about this story than i normally would (mainly character related), but it makes sense because this is CHs first novel and its YA. although im used to her more developed adult stories, its quite endearing to go back to her beginnings.
im also a sucker for any story that romanticises academics, so you better believe i feel in love with wills love for poetry. ive never heard of slam poetry, but im definitely interested!
overall, this story is quintessentially CH and i wouldnt have it any other way.
↠ 4.5 stars
yes, i have a few more critiques about this story than i normally would (mainly character related), but it makes sense because this is CHs first novel and its YA. although im used to her more developed adult stories, its quite endearing to go back to her beginnings.
im also a sucker for any story that romanticises academics, so you better believe i feel in love with wills love for poetry. ive never heard of slam poetry, but im definitely interested!
overall, this story is quintessentially CH and i wouldnt have it any other way.
↠ 4.5 stars
December 4, 2013
2 stars.**Review posted August 11, 2013
First of all I must say that I LIKED the slamming (I don't mean the doors, I'm talking about the poetry). Sorry, couldn't resist. I would rate that with four stars.
Up to the 35 % mark it was nice, it was good, it was ok even though it didn't knock my socks off. I've had a few minor issues but nothing too annoying. Unfortunately a lot went downhill after that update and too many things--and especially a HIGHLY annoying and juvenile bitch--compromised the book for me. So I feel kinda like this at the moment…
I have read enough books that I know what I like. Personally, the biggest letdown for me was the writing. As I mentioned already I liked the slamming; that was lovely. However, the writing in general is average at best, and after reading and loving Leah Raeder's Unteachable, I must say that Colleen Hoover's writing is not even average. Also, some parts of Slammed are too cheesy. Hence, it's safe to say that I belong to the little corner of readers who didn't enjoy Slammed, and I honestly don't understand what's so magical about this book. Before Slammed I've read God-Shaped Hole and I "only" rated it with four stars. Compared to Slammed, God-Shaped Hole deserves five stars--especially the second half of the book. Besides, some of the really awesome books that I've read deserve probably seven, eight, nine or ten stars--always compared to Slammed. As it is, my range is very limited. Thus, I cannot give more than 2 stars to Slammed. Sorry guys.
There is way too much manufactured drama in Slammed. Lake lost her father six months ago, The boy next door (Will) lost his parents three years ago and has to raise his brother on his own. And, since he is her teacher, they cannot see each other and that causes more drama throughout the entire plot. Crying here and crying there…*rolls eyes*
Will openly flirting with Lake and actually hitting on her right off the bat kind of surprised me, and I felt it was too quick. They see each other for the first time and wham…within a couple of hours both of them were smitten. I didn't really buy that. Yet they don't do the deed at all. Now that sure as hell didn't add up for me. Although the initial chat-up was too fast, I would like to drive an important point home. I didn't want them to wait for more than 700 (?) pages until they hit the sheets. In fact, it's contradictory and irritating as all get out to let them eat each other up right from the beginning without getting them to fourth base within the first book. Contrived build-up, much? Ugh.
The heroine is calling Will all kinds of not so nice names. She is playing theimmature hurt little girl who is slamming the door on a regular basis. Very childish and ridiculous. Lake, my seven-year-old son is pretty well-versed when it comes to slamming doors. I'm sure he could give you some pointers how to improve your technique.
Bad, bad Will…tsk-tsk…*stern look* No, let me rephrase that. Lake, you are such a whiny little bitch!
Although I must cut her some slack because if Will had been a woman I would have called him a freaking cock tease!! There I said it and I feel better already. Friendly advice, Will, you can shove sentences like "I had a weak moment. I'm sorry." or "It won't happen again, I swear." (and then it happens again and again) up your ass! On the other hand, it doesn't excuse the heroine's juvenile and annoying behavior. Another issue that I had was Will kissing Lake on her forehead. Every time he did that I had to roll my eyes. And what annoyed the living daylights out of me was the fact that Will
Certain plot twists are the same ole same ole and so overdone it's not even funny anymore.
Is there a sign saying "Do not engage your brain. Turn it off and jump to conclusions because it's so good to throw a temper tantrum later while bawling your eyes out." And to put emphasis on your disapproval you need to storm off and slam your door shut (yes, I know, I have mentioned that already but it bears repeating). Wow. Now that makes you oh-so mature! It didn't make me happy, though. If anything, it's incredibly boring and such behavior is getting on my very last nerve.
That's me…I've got a headache…
I can't help it but an extensive part of Slammed reads like a teenager's diary filled with puppy love and family drama. The book goes straight on my shelf books-everyone-loved-but-baba where it will gather some dust. I'm calling it quits coz I have no intention whatsoever to torture myself by reading Point of Retreat. Some readers told me that Lake would drive me nuts because she is assuming stuff all the time. Non-verbal communication, much? In fact, she acts worse in Point of Retreat than in Slammed. Nope, not going there. I want to stay sane and healthy. Onwards...
P.S.I just hope that Will will get some in book 2 otherwise he's going to die of blue balls. I have been informed there won't be any sex in the sequel either.
P.P.S. Lake, go buy a vibrator. Geez…
First of all I must say that I LIKED the slamming (I don't mean the doors, I'm talking about the poetry). Sorry, couldn't resist. I would rate that with four stars.
Up to the 35 % mark it was nice, it was good, it was ok even though it didn't knock my socks off. I've had a few minor issues but nothing too annoying. Unfortunately a lot went downhill after that update and too many things--and especially a HIGHLY annoying and juvenile bitch--compromised the book for me. So I feel kinda like this at the moment…
I have read enough books that I know what I like. Personally, the biggest letdown for me was the writing. As I mentioned already I liked the slamming; that was lovely. However, the writing in general is average at best, and after reading and loving Leah Raeder's Unteachable, I must say that Colleen Hoover's writing is not even average. Also, some parts of Slammed are too cheesy. Hence, it's safe to say that I belong to the little corner of readers who didn't enjoy Slammed, and I honestly don't understand what's so magical about this book. Before Slammed I've read God-Shaped Hole and I "only" rated it with four stars. Compared to Slammed, God-Shaped Hole deserves five stars--especially the second half of the book. Besides, some of the really awesome books that I've read deserve probably seven, eight, nine or ten stars--always compared to Slammed. As it is, my range is very limited. Thus, I cannot give more than 2 stars to Slammed. Sorry guys.
There is way too much manufactured drama in Slammed. Lake lost her father six months ago, The boy next door (Will) lost his parents three years ago and has to raise his brother on his own. And, since he is her teacher, they cannot see each other and that causes more drama throughout the entire plot. Crying here and crying there…*rolls eyes*
Will openly flirting with Lake and actually hitting on her right off the bat kind of surprised me, and I felt it was too quick. They see each other for the first time and wham…within a couple of hours both of them were smitten. I didn't really buy that. Yet they don't do the deed at all. Now that sure as hell didn't add up for me. Although the initial chat-up was too fast, I would like to drive an important point home. I didn't want them to wait for more than 700 (?) pages until they hit the sheets. In fact, it's contradictory and irritating as all get out to let them eat each other up right from the beginning without getting them to fourth base within the first book. Contrived build-up, much? Ugh.
The heroine is calling Will all kinds of not so nice names. She is playing the
Although I must cut her some slack because if Will had been a woman I would have called him a freaking cock tease!! There I said it and I feel better already. Friendly advice, Will, you can shove sentences like "I had a weak moment. I'm sorry." or "It won't happen again, I swear." (and then it happens again and again) up your ass! On the other hand, it doesn't excuse the heroine's juvenile and annoying behavior. Another issue that I had was Will kissing Lake on her forehead. Every time he did that I had to roll my eyes. And what annoyed the living daylights out of me was the fact that Will
Certain plot twists are the same ole same ole and so overdone it's not even funny anymore.
Is there a sign saying "Do not engage your brain. Turn it off and jump to conclusions because it's so good to throw a temper tantrum later while bawling your eyes out." And to put emphasis on your disapproval you need to storm off and slam your door shut (yes, I know, I have mentioned that already but it bears repeating). Wow. Now that makes you oh-so mature! It didn't make me happy, though. If anything, it's incredibly boring and such behavior is getting on my very last nerve.
That's me…I've got a headache…
I can't help it but an extensive part of Slammed reads like a teenager's diary filled with puppy love and family drama. The book goes straight on my shelf books-everyone-loved-but-baba where it will gather some dust. I'm calling it quits coz I have no intention whatsoever to torture myself by reading Point of Retreat. Some readers told me that Lake would drive me nuts because she is assuming stuff all the time. Non-verbal communication, much? In fact, she acts worse in Point of Retreat than in Slammed. Nope, not going there. I want to stay sane and healthy. Onwards...
P.S.
P.P.S. Lake, go buy a vibrator. Geez…
October 21, 2021
turns out the only thing i find worse than colleen hoover writing angsty toxic romances between people who should absolutely not be together is colleen hoover writing angsty toxic romances between people who should absolutely not be together, and also there's slam poetry.
that's hell.
part of a series i'm doing in which i review books i read a long time ago
that's hell.
part of a series i'm doing in which i review books i read a long time ago
July 1, 2012
Wow! I can’t believe I’m only allowed to give this book five stars. It affected me on so many levels. I mean, gut-wrenching, sobbing, tears streaming down my face affected me…and I’m not a crier. It touched my soul. It was filled with not only everything I was looking for, but everything I needed—-romance, heartache, poetry, beauty, humor, friendship, family and love, so much love that it hurt my heart!
This book is so much more than a love story. It’s packed with important life lessons. If you’ve ever lost someone, loved someone, needed someone or wanted someone, this book will affect you, too. I am awed and inspired. I read this on my ereader, but I’m getting it in paperback too. I need to pass it around to my friends. I need to dog-ear the pages. I need to highlight words and phrases. I need to share it with my children. This may be my favorite read this year! I can’t recommend it enough!
This book is so much more than a love story. It’s packed with important life lessons. If you’ve ever lost someone, loved someone, needed someone or wanted someone, this book will affect you, too. I am awed and inspired. I read this on my ereader, but I’m getting it in paperback too. I need to pass it around to my friends. I need to dog-ear the pages. I need to highlight words and phrases. I need to share it with my children. This may be my favorite read this year! I can’t recommend it enough!
September 1, 2014
Slam poetry plays a major role in Colleen Hoover's "Slammed." So instead of the traditional way, I present you my attempt at a simple poetic review. Note: "Schooled" is originally written by Layken Cohen, the main female character in this book.
"Schooled"
I got schooled this year
By fictional characters
By a beautiful story
By a book
I got schooled this year
By Layken, Will, Julia, Kel, and Eddie
They taught me to accept death and life
That it'll get in our way and we have to be ready
They taught me to laugh, love, hope, and cry
That someday, the hardships and heartaches will all come in handy
I got schooled this year
By a story of romance with a great depth to it
It taught me to use both my head and my heart
To balance and treat the two of them as a unit
It taught me to be open-minded and smart
To ask myself a few questions before I commit
I got schooled this year..
By "Slammed"
As much as I don't wish to provide further details (to avoid making a very long review), I think I have to write the part that I feel so strongly about:
"I slide into the bed beside my mother and wrap my arms around her. She finds my hand and we interlock fingers as we talk without saying a single word."
I won't lie, I cried so hard at this. My mom and I used to do the same thing when I was a kid. How many times did someone tell us to treasure our mother, or parents in general, while they're still alive? And how many times did we shrug and ignore it?
Do they have to be dying before we relive the old days? The good old days when they're the most important person/s in our lives and not our social shits or boyfriends or girlfriends?
You know what? We're going to spend our lives with our husband/wife LONGER than we have with our parents. Love them with all you got and don't half-ass it.
So you see, this amazing book made me experience a spectrum of emotion! And yes, it absolutely "schooled" me. I highly-recommend!! :)
"Schooled"
I got schooled this year
By fictional characters
By a beautiful story
By a book
I got schooled this year
By Layken, Will, Julia, Kel, and Eddie
They taught me to accept death and life
That it'll get in our way and we have to be ready
They taught me to laugh, love, hope, and cry
That someday, the hardships and heartaches will all come in handy
I got schooled this year
By a story of romance with a great depth to it
It taught me to use both my head and my heart
To balance and treat the two of them as a unit
It taught me to be open-minded and smart
To ask myself a few questions before I commit
I got schooled this year..
By "Slammed"
As much as I don't wish to provide further details (to avoid making a very long review), I think I have to write the part that I feel so strongly about:
"I slide into the bed beside my mother and wrap my arms around her. She finds my hand and we interlock fingers as we talk without saying a single word."
I won't lie, I cried so hard at this. My mom and I used to do the same thing when I was a kid. How many times did someone tell us to treasure our mother, or parents in general, while they're still alive? And how many times did we shrug and ignore it?
Do they have to be dying before we relive the old days? The good old days when they're the most important person/s in our lives and not our social shits or boyfriends or girlfriends?
You know what? We're going to spend our lives with our husband/wife LONGER than we have with our parents. Love them with all you got and don't half-ass it.
So you see, this amazing book made me experience a spectrum of emotion! And yes, it absolutely "schooled" me. I highly-recommend!! :)
February 2, 2023
milk shouldn't be served on ice
but that's almost the only bone i have to pick with this book. this is colleen hoover's debut novel, and it shows. but it also shows her potential as an author and shows hints of what makes her so beloved. her writing? accessible as hell. her characters? incredibly flawed, oftentimes annoying. but always real. her plot twists? questionable. but always fun to be along for the ride, honestly.
i only have 2 beefs here:
1. the beginning of this book was weird. the writing was weird and i'll chalk it up to the debut status. there's so much emphasis on setting and action and not much emphasis on emotion/dialogue. "i get out of the shower. i wrap my hair in a towel. i am wearing a purple shirt today." it was oddly robotic and took me out of the story. but it cleared itself up fairly quickly
2. layken was... painfully immature. i get it, she's 18. but her inability to empathize with will was really hard to read at times. willing to overlook it mostly though since again, she's only 18.
okay maybe 3 beefs lol. not really a true beef but this book was incredibly predictable and the romance was a little rushed. but hey i was turning pages quick and sometimes that's all i ask of a book.
but that's almost the only bone i have to pick with this book. this is colleen hoover's debut novel, and it shows. but it also shows her potential as an author and shows hints of what makes her so beloved. her writing? accessible as hell. her characters? incredibly flawed, oftentimes annoying. but always real. her plot twists? questionable. but always fun to be along for the ride, honestly.
i only have 2 beefs here:
1. the beginning of this book was weird. the writing was weird and i'll chalk it up to the debut status. there's so much emphasis on setting and action and not much emphasis on emotion/dialogue. "i get out of the shower. i wrap my hair in a towel. i am wearing a purple shirt today." it was oddly robotic and took me out of the story. but it cleared itself up fairly quickly
2. layken was... painfully immature. i get it, she's 18. but her inability to empathize with will was really hard to read at times. willing to overlook it mostly though since again, she's only 18.
okay maybe 3 beefs lol. not really a true beef but this book was incredibly predictable and the romance was a little rushed. but hey i was turning pages quick and sometimes that's all i ask of a book.
October 11, 2014
Don't take life too seriously. Punch it in the face when it needs a good hit. Laugh at it.
Inspiring! I am genuinely floored by the brilliance of this book! I adored every single one of these amazing characters and the way they were so realistically portrayed. The unique plot, the bitter-sweet tension, and the tender romance all had me mesmerized...but I won't further digress on these elements, as I'm sure they will clearly speak for themselves...
What I do want to shine a light upon is the breathtaking wisdom that abundantly graced these pages and made its way to not only my heart, but deep within--resonating with my soul. (And I'm not only referring to the ingenious Avett Brothers quotes!)
This book was more than a love story. It was more than clever entertainment. It took every wonderful element I long for in a story and set it into motion through what felt like a song. It showed that grief, happiness, love, and loss are are all emotions that can coexist so long as there is acceptance and appreciation for what IS. The slam poetry was phenomenal, but it was not the only lyrical aspect. The entire story flowed methodically like music—occasionally changing rhymes, but never reason.
I've never cried so intensely while reading a book—honestly, and for various reasons. Who knew I could feel so utterly heartbroken, enlightened, and peaceful at the same time without becoming conflicted.
Slammed was an extraordinary read that had POWER is in its simplicity. This was NOT a preachy book. Not in the least, and still, I felt that every piece of me had been thoroughly schooled by its wisdom. There was not a single message conveyed that was not backed up by a stunning example played out by the characters. It was as if the author said--I can tell you my idea of peace, love, and happiness, but I'd much rather show you...
Through poetry, and pain,
happiness and shame,
family ruins and pink balloons;
by acceptance of strife—
we're shown how to emphasize the LIFE in our lives.
...And for that, I thank you, Miss Hoover.
Book Stats:
▪ Genre/Category: Romance/New Adult
▪ Steam Caliber: Mild but sexy
▪ Romance: Slow-building. Angsty and complicated.
▪ Characters: Lovable, quirky, and relatable.
▪ Plot: Emotional love story--also showcases the bonds of family and friends.
▪ Writing: Poetic, witty, and beautifully inspiring. Unique way with words.
▪ POV: First person: Heroine
▪ Cliffhanger: None
▪ Next Installment: Continuing story
Inspiring! I am genuinely floored by the brilliance of this book! I adored every single one of these amazing characters and the way they were so realistically portrayed. The unique plot, the bitter-sweet tension, and the tender romance all had me mesmerized...but I won't further digress on these elements, as I'm sure they will clearly speak for themselves...
What I do want to shine a light upon is the breathtaking wisdom that abundantly graced these pages and made its way to not only my heart, but deep within--resonating with my soul. (And I'm not only referring to the ingenious Avett Brothers quotes!)
This book was more than a love story. It was more than clever entertainment. It took every wonderful element I long for in a story and set it into motion through what felt like a song. It showed that grief, happiness, love, and loss are are all emotions that can coexist so long as there is acceptance and appreciation for what IS. The slam poetry was phenomenal, but it was not the only lyrical aspect. The entire story flowed methodically like music—occasionally changing rhymes, but never reason.
I've never cried so intensely while reading a book—honestly, and for various reasons. Who knew I could feel so utterly heartbroken, enlightened, and peaceful at the same time without becoming conflicted.
Slammed was an extraordinary read that had POWER is in its simplicity. This was NOT a preachy book. Not in the least, and still, I felt that every piece of me had been thoroughly schooled by its wisdom. There was not a single message conveyed that was not backed up by a stunning example played out by the characters. It was as if the author said--I can tell you my idea of peace, love, and happiness, but I'd much rather show you...
Through poetry, and pain,
happiness and shame,
family ruins and pink balloons;
by acceptance of strife—
we're shown how to emphasize the LIFE in our lives.
...And for that, I thank you, Miss Hoover.
Book Stats:
▪ Genre/Category: Romance/New Adult
▪ Steam Caliber: Mild but sexy
▪ Romance: Slow-building. Angsty and complicated.
▪ Characters: Lovable, quirky, and relatable.
▪ Plot: Emotional love story--also showcases the bonds of family and friends.
▪ Writing: Poetic, witty, and beautifully inspiring. Unique way with words.
▪ POV: First person: Heroine
▪ Cliffhanger: None
▪ Next Installment: Continuing story
November 13, 2023
“Push your boundaries, that's what they're there for.”
It's currently 2:10 in the morning... I finished Slammed over 30 minutes ago... And I just stopped crying. I went into Slammed ONLY knowing that this book involved slam poetry. I had never even read the synopsis to this story (after reading Ugly Love I knew that when it comes to Hoover books you have to go into it blind). The odd thing is of all of Colleen's books, I've owned this one the longest and I'm just now reading it. I HATE MYSELF FOR THAT!!!!
I would never believe that this was Hoover's debut novel. It's so strong that I assumed it was a 4th or 5th book. Nope. She never fails to incorporate something new and unique into her writing, if it's paintings, music, or even poetry. She really has a style all her own. There are only three writers. I will drop everything I'm reading to pick up their work... That's John Green, Jennifer Armentrout, and Colleen Hoover.
Slammed follows the story of new Michigan transplant Lake as she is forced to start a new life her senior year of high school. After her fathers untimely death her mother can't afford to keep them living in Texas. First day in the new place Lake's brother befriends the boy next door... Introducing Lake to Will. The charming, handsome, and sweet poet.
The characters in this book feel so real! Lake and Will are written to perfection. Lake, though mature for her age, has the same immature moments as the rest of us. Will is just so sweet, speaking in a way that will have you swooning all over the place. Both their love towards their family captured my heart 200%. Both characters' physical appearance is described just enough to give you an idea then left you to make your own decision. As the characters develop in the story the story itself grows into something so hard to capture in words. I thought that the insta-lust that happened right away was going to ruin this book for me. But at the end I realized that this story might have involved love but it's not the love you expect. I wish I could explain that more but it's the only way I can say it. It is about a deeper kind of love than just being with someone. The sub characters like Eddie and the baby brothers... PHENOMENAL. Colleen has it so they are sub characters that manage to shine so much light without ever overpowering.
The plot has this pace between fast and medium, and it was at a rate I'd never experienced before. Then of course there's the whole poetry and music aspect that was put into this story. It's what takes this book to the next level. The poetry is introduced in the first handful of pages. I didn't know how I was going to feel about it... BUT WOW. Seriously, the first poem had me in tears and they only got better from there. The quotes from The Avett Brothers are perfectly placed and were just a nice little treat at the start of every chapter. Like I said, this is a story you need to go into blind, therefore I can't, even though I want to, go into more detail. This book started strong and then had me a blubbering mess. I don't know if I should be mad or thankful that Colleen is constantly finding new ways to tear my heart out of my chest. I don't think I've ever not been a mess at the end of one of her books.
This story made me laugh a hundred times, and cry at least five. Slammed is one beautiful, quotable, and poetic line one after another. Slammed touched me on such a personal level I probably cried harder than most. This book is a must read, and definitely made its way into my all time favorites.
It's currently 2:10 in the morning... I finished Slammed over 30 minutes ago... And I just stopped crying. I went into Slammed ONLY knowing that this book involved slam poetry. I had never even read the synopsis to this story (after reading Ugly Love I knew that when it comes to Hoover books you have to go into it blind). The odd thing is of all of Colleen's books, I've owned this one the longest and I'm just now reading it. I HATE MYSELF FOR THAT!!!!
I would never believe that this was Hoover's debut novel. It's so strong that I assumed it was a 4th or 5th book. Nope. She never fails to incorporate something new and unique into her writing, if it's paintings, music, or even poetry. She really has a style all her own. There are only three writers. I will drop everything I'm reading to pick up their work... That's John Green, Jennifer Armentrout, and Colleen Hoover.
Slammed follows the story of new Michigan transplant Lake as she is forced to start a new life her senior year of high school. After her fathers untimely death her mother can't afford to keep them living in Texas. First day in the new place Lake's brother befriends the boy next door... Introducing Lake to Will. The charming, handsome, and sweet poet.
The characters in this book feel so real! Lake and Will are written to perfection. Lake, though mature for her age, has the same immature moments as the rest of us. Will is just so sweet, speaking in a way that will have you swooning all over the place. Both their love towards their family captured my heart 200%. Both characters' physical appearance is described just enough to give you an idea then left you to make your own decision. As the characters develop in the story the story itself grows into something so hard to capture in words. I thought that the insta-lust that happened right away was going to ruin this book for me. But at the end I realized that this story might have involved love but it's not the love you expect. I wish I could explain that more but it's the only way I can say it. It is about a deeper kind of love than just being with someone. The sub characters like Eddie and the baby brothers... PHENOMENAL. Colleen has it so they are sub characters that manage to shine so much light without ever overpowering.
The plot has this pace between fast and medium, and it was at a rate I'd never experienced before. Then of course there's the whole poetry and music aspect that was put into this story. It's what takes this book to the next level. The poetry is introduced in the first handful of pages. I didn't know how I was going to feel about it... BUT WOW. Seriously, the first poem had me in tears and they only got better from there. The quotes from The Avett Brothers are perfectly placed and were just a nice little treat at the start of every chapter. Like I said, this is a story you need to go into blind, therefore I can't, even though I want to, go into more detail. This book started strong and then had me a blubbering mess. I don't know if I should be mad or thankful that Colleen is constantly finding new ways to tear my heart out of my chest. I don't think I've ever not been a mess at the end of one of her books.
This story made me laugh a hundred times, and cry at least five. Slammed is one beautiful, quotable, and poetic line one after another. Slammed touched me on such a personal level I probably cried harder than most. This book is a must read, and definitely made its way into my all time favorites.
July 29, 2015
I just read this whole thing on a plane and WOW. This is one of the best contemporaries I've read in a long time. I was wary of this book because it's new adult, but I really, really enjoyed it. Having older characters was a nice change and the story was seriously so fast and addicting. *flies to Amazon to order sequel*
November 12, 2012
There Comes a Time
There comes a time in life when you read, feel, or hear something and words
Cannot not describe the emotions, thoughts or actions it brings out of you.
There comes a time in life when you feel inspired to do something that it is you've never done before,
Experience things you never thought you could do.
There comes a time in your life when against all odds you know there is a light at the end of the tunnel,
And that you will make it out okay.
Breathing, living, crying, screaming, yelling, smiling.
There comes a time in life when you know that no matter what happens, you can still look back,
And say you gave it your all.
In today’s world, it seems like nothing will turn around for the better as we sit and wait and become bitter.
In life you find things that are astounding. In every way imaginable and every way you can see.
Things that are life changing in the best way possible. Things that you can only describe with the most vivid of words and actions.
There comes a time in life when you say no matter what, at the end of the day I gave it my all.
Knowing that there is peace within you and with all that surrounds you.
There comes a time in life when you smile because you know, at that time life is everything you
wanted it to be but never thought that it could.
Shouting from the rooftops the joy that you have inside and wanting to share it with the world.
There comes a time in life when all is at it should be and you turn around, look at yourself and know that this is what you were meant for.....MLD
...And that time came for me throughout the entirety of this book. I cannot remember the last time I was so touched, so inspired, so intrigued, so consumed with a book as I was with Slammed. The slam poetry was utterly brilliant and the story to go along with it was damn near perfection.
Layken (aka Lake) is an eighteen year old who has just moved away from everything she's ever known as "home" after her fathers sudden death. She needs and tries so hard to be the rock that her little brother, Kel, and mother can lean on. On moving day, she meets her neighbors from across the street, Will and his little brother, Caulder. It was pretty much love at first sight...for the little brothers as well. I loved the dynamics of the kids' relationship. How easy it is to just accept and be happy at that age...
Will asks Lake on a date and it's unlike any typical date she's been on before. None of the boring questions about how many siblings, dogs, cats, etc.. Then he brings her to a Slam session. She is thoroughly enjoying herself and begs him to do a slam for her, he volunteers, does his slam and the rest is history...
Three days ago, I was devastated, bitter, and hopeless. Today I woke up feeling happy for the first time in months.
Will did that for Lake, in all the months that had passed and while her unhappiness began to consume her, he helped her to see life in a different way...
...Then a devastating revelation happens....and then another, and you think to yourself, WHY??? Why can't everything just be okay?!...
Throughout the course of the book, Lake and Will had to face some of the toughest obstacles any two people could ever or should ever have to face. I would like to think that Lake's best friend Eddie helped to keep her grounded, she was one of my favorite characters in the book; her joy leaped off of the pages to me and I found myself smiling every time she would give off her words of wisdom...
This book had me going through so many emotions. I had a lot of ups and downs, tears of sorrow and tears of contentment, grins and frowns. My heart beat rapidly at times for the hope of a solution and beat rapidly at times for the nervousness of what was to come...
So many adversities to overcome, so many issues to work through, so many questions of priority. Through poetry so much is revealed of how one copes with things, deals with feelings; pouring their soul out to a captive audience. Why? Because it speaks volumes:
The ways these poets are able to lure you into a whole new world, viewing things from a vantage point you've never seen before. Making you feel like you are the mother who lost her baby, or the boy who killed his father, or even the man who got high for the first time...
This was so much more than a book to me, it put so many things into perspective, it touched me on a deeper level. At the first slam, I knew this would be one of my favorite books of all time, now that I'm done? I'm glad to see that I was right! I would give this book WAY more than 5 stars if GR would let me, but for now, know that I absolutely LOVED this book and am excited to read more of Layken and Will's story in the sequel! In closing, I will leave you with this...
Be accepting of everything. People's differences, their similarities, their choices, their personalities. Sometimes it takes a variety to make a good collection.
There comes a time in life when you read, feel, or hear something and words
Cannot not describe the emotions, thoughts or actions it brings out of you.
There comes a time in life when you feel inspired to do something that it is you've never done before,
Experience things you never thought you could do.
There comes a time in your life when against all odds you know there is a light at the end of the tunnel,
And that you will make it out okay.
Breathing, living, crying, screaming, yelling, smiling.
There comes a time in life when you know that no matter what happens, you can still look back,
And say you gave it your all.
In today’s world, it seems like nothing will turn around for the better as we sit and wait and become bitter.
In life you find things that are astounding. In every way imaginable and every way you can see.
Things that are life changing in the best way possible. Things that you can only describe with the most vivid of words and actions.
There comes a time in life when you say no matter what, at the end of the day I gave it my all.
Knowing that there is peace within you and with all that surrounds you.
There comes a time in life when you smile because you know, at that time life is everything you
wanted it to be but never thought that it could.
Shouting from the rooftops the joy that you have inside and wanting to share it with the world.
There comes a time in life when all is at it should be and you turn around, look at yourself and know that this is what you were meant for.....MLD
...And that time came for me throughout the entirety of this book. I cannot remember the last time I was so touched, so inspired, so intrigued, so consumed with a book as I was with Slammed. The slam poetry was utterly brilliant and the story to go along with it was damn near perfection.
Layken (aka Lake) is an eighteen year old who has just moved away from everything she's ever known as "home" after her fathers sudden death. She needs and tries so hard to be the rock that her little brother, Kel, and mother can lean on. On moving day, she meets her neighbors from across the street, Will and his little brother, Caulder. It was pretty much love at first sight...for the little brothers as well. I loved the dynamics of the kids' relationship. How easy it is to just accept and be happy at that age...
Will asks Lake on a date and it's unlike any typical date she's been on before. None of the boring questions about how many siblings, dogs, cats, etc.. Then he brings her to a Slam session. She is thoroughly enjoying herself and begs him to do a slam for her, he volunteers, does his slam and the rest is history...
Three days ago, I was devastated, bitter, and hopeless. Today I woke up feeling happy for the first time in months.
Will did that for Lake, in all the months that had passed and while her unhappiness began to consume her, he helped her to see life in a different way...
...Then a devastating revelation happens....and then another, and you think to yourself, WHY??? Why can't everything just be okay?!...
Throughout the course of the book, Lake and Will had to face some of the toughest obstacles any two people could ever or should ever have to face. I would like to think that Lake's best friend Eddie helped to keep her grounded, she was one of my favorite characters in the book; her joy leaped off of the pages to me and I found myself smiling every time she would give off her words of wisdom...
This book had me going through so many emotions. I had a lot of ups and downs, tears of sorrow and tears of contentment, grins and frowns. My heart beat rapidly at times for the hope of a solution and beat rapidly at times for the nervousness of what was to come...
So many adversities to overcome, so many issues to work through, so many questions of priority. Through poetry so much is revealed of how one copes with things, deals with feelings; pouring their soul out to a captive audience. Why? Because it speaks volumes:
The ways these poets are able to lure you into a whole new world, viewing things from a vantage point you've never seen before. Making you feel like you are the mother who lost her baby, or the boy who killed his father, or even the man who got high for the first time...
This was so much more than a book to me, it put so many things into perspective, it touched me on a deeper level. At the first slam, I knew this would be one of my favorite books of all time, now that I'm done? I'm glad to see that I was right! I would give this book WAY more than 5 stars if GR would let me, but for now, know that I absolutely LOVED this book and am excited to read more of Layken and Will's story in the sequel! In closing, I will leave you with this...
Be accepting of everything. People's differences, their similarities, their choices, their personalities. Sometimes it takes a variety to make a good collection.
July 7, 2020
Slammed (Slammed #1), Colleen Hoover
Hoover self-published her debut novel, Slammed, in January 2012. Following the unexpected death of her father, eighteen-year-old Layken becomes the rock for both her mother and younger brother.
She appears resilient and tenacious, but inside, she's losing hope. Then she meets her new neighbor Will, a handsome twenty-one-year-old whose mere presence leaves her flustered and whose passion for poetry slams thrills her.
عنوانها: «بسته شده: کتاب نخست از سری بسته»؛ «اسیر سرنوشت: کتاب نخست از سری بسته»؛ نویسنده: کالین هوور؛ تاریخ نخستین خوانش: روز دوم ماه نوامبر سال 2018 میلادی
عنوان: بسته شده : کتاب نخست از سری بسته؛ نویسنده: کالین هوور؛ مترجم: فرشته افسری؛ تهران، آسو، 1397؛ در 328ص؛ شابک 9786008755227؛ موضوع داستانهای نویسندگان امریکایی - سده 21م
عنوان: اسیر سرنوشت: کتاب نخست از سری بسته؛ نویسنده: کالین هوور؛ مترجم: محمدجواد شجاعی؛ ویراستار: قاسم دهقان؛ تهران، انتشارات مصدق، 1397؛ در 280ص؛ شابک 9786009506905؛
این کتاب داستان عاشقانه و لطیفی دارد؛ با این کتاب هم میشود خندید و هم اشک ریخت، هم عاشق شد…؛ رمان «بسته شده» داستان پسری ست که پدرش را به تازگی از دست داده، و مسئولیت مادر و برادر کوچکترش به دوش او افتاده است؛ درگذشت نابهنگام پدرِ «لیکن»، بر اثر حمله ی قلبی، باعث شد که «لیکن» هجده ساله، مجبور شود تا برای برادر و مادرش، سنگ صبور باشد
ظاهراً به نظر میرسید که از این پیشامد، استوار و انعطاف پذیر شده است، اما درون او از اندوه و ناامیدی پر شده بود؛ آنها از شهر خود کوچ میکنند چون دیگر توانایی زندگی در آن شهر را ندارند؛ «لیکن» به همراه مادر و برادرش زندگی سختی را در شهر تازه دارند؛ در این زمان «ویل کوپر» وارد زندگی او میشود؛ جوان بیست و یکساله ی جذابی که در همسایگی آنها زندگی میکند؛ از لحظه ی آشنایی آنها، «ویل» و «لیک» وارد یک رابطه ی احساسی میشوند، و «ویل» امید را در دل «لیکن» زنده میکند؛ رفت و آمدهای روزانه، برای آنها دردآور میشود، طوری که هر لحظه درگیر این موضوع میشوند که یک تعادلی را بین احساسات خود برقرار کنند، تنها برای اینکه بتوانند در کنار هم بمانند، و در این میان رازی وجود دارد که آنها را از هم جدا میکند…؛
نقل از پشت جلد کتاب: سه پرسش هست که هر زن پیش از اینکه عاشق یک مرد بشه، باید بهشون جواب مثبت بده؛ اگه جواب یکی از این پرسشها منفی باشه، اون زندگی هیچوقت برای اون زن، زندگی نمیشه؛ پایان نقل
نقل نمونه متن کتاب: (من و «کِل»، دوتا جعبه ی آخر رو، به ماشین حمل بار بردیم، در رو به طرف پایین کشیدم، و قفل در رو انداختم، و انگار با بستن این در، به روی تموم خاطرات هجده ساله ام، که پدرم در تمومش حضوری پررنگ داشت، قفل زدیم. از زمان مرگش شش ماه میگذشت، این زمان اونقدری طولانی بود، که برادر کوچیک نه ساله ام، تونست با این موضوع کنار بیاد، و زمانیکه از پدرم تعریف میکردیم، گریه نکنه، اما برای ما هنوز تازه بود، و مجبور بودیم از عهده ی شرایط مالی جدیدیکه به وجود اومده بود، به تنهایی بربیایم. دیگه قادر نبودیم که تو «تگزاس»، و تو تنها خونه ای که میشناختیم، بمونیم…؛ مامانم، در حالیکه کلید خونه رو بهم میداد، گفت: «لیک»، مثل افسرده ها نباش. فکر کنم از «میشیگان» خوشت بیاد. هیچوقت اسم اصلیمو صدا نمیزد، با پدرم نه ماه تموم، سر انتخاب اسمم دعوا کردن، مامانم، پس از آهنگ «اریک کلاپتون» دوست داشت، اسممو لیلا بذاره، و پدرم بعد از کِنِدی دوست داشت اسممو کندی بذاره و میگفت: مهم نیست کدوم کندی، من همه شونو دوست دارم. و دیگر اینکه: تقریبا سه روزه بودم که بالاخره مجبور شدن اسممو انتخاب کنن، سه حرفِ اولِ اسم مورد نظر خودشونو روی من گذاشتن که در آخر به اسم لِیکِن تبدیل شد، با این حال هیچ کدوم حتی یکبار هم منو به این اسم صدا نزدند. ادای مامانمو درآوردم و گفتم: مامان، لطفا مثل این آدمایی که مستن نباش! من از میشیگان بدم میاد. مامانم این توانایی رو داشت که کل حرفاشو با نگاهش بزنه، و معنی نگاه خیره شو فهمیدم از پله های ایوان بالا اومدم و قبل از اینکه از این خونه خارج بشم، به همه جا نگاه انداختم و همچنین تموم اتاقا به طرز وحشتناکی خالی شده بود، این خونه با اون خونه ای که قبلا توش زندگی میکردیم زمین تا آسمون فرق داشت. شش ماهِ گذشته هجومی از احساسات رو در برداشت که همه ی اونها غم انگیز بودن، میدونستم نقل مکان از این خونه اجتناب ناپذیره، فقط انتظار داشتم که بعد از سال آخر دبیرستانم، همچین اتفاقی بیفته…). پایان نقل
تاریخ بهنگام رسانی 16/04/1399هجری خورشیدی؛ ا. شربیانی
Hoover self-published her debut novel, Slammed, in January 2012. Following the unexpected death of her father, eighteen-year-old Layken becomes the rock for both her mother and younger brother.
She appears resilient and tenacious, but inside, she's losing hope. Then she meets her new neighbor Will, a handsome twenty-one-year-old whose mere presence leaves her flustered and whose passion for poetry slams thrills her.
عنوانها: «بسته شده: کتاب نخست از سری بسته»؛ «اسیر سرنوشت: کتاب نخست از سری بسته»؛ نویسنده: کالین هوور؛ تاریخ نخستین خوانش: روز دوم ماه نوامبر سال 2018 میلادی
عنوان: بسته شده : کتاب نخست از سری بسته؛ نویسنده: کالین هوور؛ مترجم: فرشته افسری؛ تهران، آسو، 1397؛ در 328ص؛ شابک 9786008755227؛ موضوع داستانهای نویسندگان امریکایی - سده 21م
عنوان: اسیر سرنوشت: کتاب نخست از سری بسته؛ نویسنده: کالین هوور؛ مترجم: محمدجواد شجاعی؛ ویراستار: قاسم دهقان؛ تهران، انتشارات مصدق، 1397؛ در 280ص؛ شابک 9786009506905؛
این کتاب داستان عاشقانه و لطیفی دارد؛ با این کتاب هم میشود خندید و هم اشک ریخت، هم عاشق شد…؛ رمان «بسته شده» داستان پسری ست که پدرش را به تازگی از دست داده، و مسئولیت مادر و برادر کوچکترش به دوش او افتاده است؛ درگذشت نابهنگام پدرِ «لیکن»، بر اثر حمله ی قلبی، باعث شد که «لیکن» هجده ساله، مجبور شود تا برای برادر و مادرش، سنگ صبور باشد
ظاهراً به نظر میرسید که از این پیشامد، استوار و انعطاف پذیر شده است، اما درون او از اندوه و ناامیدی پر شده بود؛ آنها از شهر خود کوچ میکنند چون دیگر توانایی زندگی در آن شهر را ندارند؛ «لیکن» به همراه مادر و برادرش زندگی سختی را در شهر تازه دارند؛ در این زمان «ویل کوپر» وارد زندگی او میشود؛ جوان بیست و یکساله ی جذابی که در همسایگی آنها زندگی میکند؛ از لحظه ی آشنایی آنها، «ویل» و «لیک» وارد یک رابطه ی احساسی میشوند، و «ویل» امید را در دل «لیکن» زنده میکند؛ رفت و آمدهای روزانه، برای آنها دردآور میشود، طوری که هر لحظه درگیر این موضوع میشوند که یک تعادلی را بین احساسات خود برقرار کنند، تنها برای اینکه بتوانند در کنار هم بمانند، و در این میان رازی وجود دارد که آنها را از هم جدا میکند…؛
نقل از پشت جلد کتاب: سه پرسش هست که هر زن پیش از اینکه عاشق یک مرد بشه، باید بهشون جواب مثبت بده؛ اگه جواب یکی از این پرسشها منفی باشه، اون زندگی هیچوقت برای اون زن، زندگی نمیشه؛ پایان نقل
نقل نمونه متن کتاب: (من و «کِل»، دوتا جعبه ی آخر رو، به ماشین حمل بار بردیم، در رو به طرف پایین کشیدم، و قفل در رو انداختم، و انگار با بستن این در، به روی تموم خاطرات هجده ساله ام، که پدرم در تمومش حضوری پررنگ داشت، قفل زدیم. از زمان مرگش شش ماه میگذشت، این زمان اونقدری طولانی بود، که برادر کوچیک نه ساله ام، تونست با این موضوع کنار بیاد، و زمانیکه از پدرم تعریف میکردیم، گریه نکنه، اما برای ما هنوز تازه بود، و مجبور بودیم از عهده ی شرایط مالی جدیدیکه به وجود اومده بود، به تنهایی بربیایم. دیگه قادر نبودیم که تو «تگزاس»، و تو تنها خونه ای که میشناختیم، بمونیم…؛ مامانم، در حالیکه کلید خونه رو بهم میداد، گفت: «لیک»، مثل افسرده ها نباش. فکر کنم از «میشیگان» خوشت بیاد. هیچوقت اسم اصلیمو صدا نمیزد، با پدرم نه ماه تموم، سر انتخاب اسمم دعوا کردن، مامانم، پس از آهنگ «اریک کلاپتون» دوست داشت، اسممو لیلا بذاره، و پدرم بعد از کِنِدی دوست داشت اسممو کندی بذاره و میگفت: مهم نیست کدوم کندی، من همه شونو دوست دارم. و دیگر اینکه: تقریبا سه روزه بودم که بالاخره مجبور شدن اسممو انتخاب کنن، سه حرفِ اولِ اسم مورد نظر خودشونو روی من گذاشتن که در آخر به اسم لِیکِن تبدیل شد، با این حال هیچ کدوم حتی یکبار هم منو به این اسم صدا نزدند. ادای مامانمو درآوردم و گفتم: مامان، لطفا مثل این آدمایی که مستن نباش! من از میشیگان بدم میاد. مامانم این توانایی رو داشت که کل حرفاشو با نگاهش بزنه، و معنی نگاه خیره شو فهمیدم از پله های ایوان بالا اومدم و قبل از اینکه از این خونه خارج بشم، به همه جا نگاه انداختم و همچنین تموم اتاقا به طرز وحشتناکی خالی شده بود، این خونه با اون خونه ای که قبلا توش زندگی میکردیم زمین تا آسمون فرق داشت. شش ماهِ گذشته هجومی از احساسات رو در برداشت که همه ی اونها غم انگیز بودن، میدونستم نقل مکان از این خونه اجتناب ناپذیره، فقط انتظار داشتم که بعد از سال آخر دبیرستانم، همچین اتفاقی بیفته…). پایان نقل
تاریخ بهنگام رسانی 16/04/1399هجری خورشیدی؛ ا. شربیانی
Read
April 13, 2022Colleen Hoover's early books are a cringe fest. Hate to say it.
July 13, 2012
Book Trailer: http://toughcriticbookreviews.blogspo...
So I promised myself I wouldn't use some cheesy play on the word slammed, but daaaaaamn this book not only slammed me right out of my book slump but slammed me into total Colleen Hoover submission!! I confess I wasn't slammed right away. In fact, I was devistated. Utterly disappointed and totally convinced this was going to be another generic romance that happens way too quickly....
I was wrong! Wrong. Wrong. WRONG!!! The turning point for me was the plot shocker and shock me it did. My mouth was slammed wide open with complete surprise. I love it when I don't see it coming. The story was transformed into a heartshattering, heartbreaking, and passionate story of love, loss, turmoil and a whole lot of other stuff. It was an emotional rollercoaster gone wild!!!
This is usually where I talk about the characters I loved, didn't love, or loved to hate, but I can't. I loved them all. You don't just fall for Layken and Will's relationship you fall for every single one! Her relationship with her mom, her brother. Will's relationship with his brother...Relationship-fest 2012!!!! I'm in love...with EVERYONE!!
I instantly dove right into Point of Retreat without even coming up for air. I laughed, I cried, I became sexual frustrated!! I never saw this series coming, but it slammed into me with such force all I can say is read the book!!
Reviewed at http://toughcriticbookreviews.blogspo...
So I promised myself I wouldn't use some cheesy play on the word slammed, but daaaaaamn this book not only slammed me right out of my book slump but slammed me into total Colleen Hoover submission!! I confess I wasn't slammed right away. In fact, I was devistated. Utterly disappointed and totally convinced this was going to be another generic romance that happens way too quickly....
I was wrong! Wrong. Wrong. WRONG!!! The turning point for me was the plot shocker and shock me it did. My mouth was slammed wide open with complete surprise. I love it when I don't see it coming. The story was transformed into a heartshattering, heartbreaking, and passionate story of love, loss, turmoil and a whole lot of other stuff. It was an emotional rollercoaster gone wild!!!
This is usually where I talk about the characters I loved, didn't love, or loved to hate, but I can't. I loved them all. You don't just fall for Layken and Will's relationship you fall for every single one! Her relationship with her mom, her brother. Will's relationship with his brother...Relationship-fest 2012!!!! I'm in love...with EVERYONE!!
I instantly dove right into Point of Retreat without even coming up for air. I laughed, I cried, I became sexual frustrated!! I never saw this series coming, but it slammed into me with such force all I can say is read the book!!
Reviewed at http://toughcriticbookreviews.blogspo...
August 13, 2012
I haven't been reading much lately; I've been busy writing my sequel. Slammed is the first book I've been able to read in almost seven months and it's not my typical read.
In all honesty, I don't usually read YA books because they usually don't have any sex in them. I read Colleen Hoover's, Slammed, because she took a HUGE chance recommending my dark erotica to her mainstream audience. I appreciate the hell out of that.
So, what did I think?
At first, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy the book - that's just me being honest. I thought it hugged the romance 'formula' a little too much for my taste. I admit, I might have walked in with that preconceived notion. However, as I kept reading, I found myself connecting with the emotions in the book. I loved the poetry. I loved the message.
SPOILER ALERT!
My dad past away several years ago. I don't like to think about it. I don't like to read about death and how to cope. I'm more of a push your emotions down into your stomach until they make you sick type of girl - lol. I cried when Layken found that barrette. I find things sometimes and I just sit there and stare.
I empathized with the anger the characters felt over the eventuality of Layken's mother's prognosis. My dad was diagnosed with cancer and was told he would live 6 months. He lived 6 years, but the time never seemed like enough. Also, I was angry about the fact he kept drinking after he was diagnosed. I felt like he was doing it on purpose - shaking his fist at my anger and grief.
I understood Will and Layken's acceptance. Once my father died, I realized he had lived his life the way HE wanted. He deserved that. Everyone deserves to go their own way. I am still here. I have to find my own way. I forgave him a long time ago.
By the end of this book, I was in tears and thinking about my dad, but more than that, I was thinking, 'Colleen Hoover deserves every ounce of her success'. She has written something very special. Like any author worth a shit - she parted with a piece of her soul. I take it with me.
I'm the fan girl, Colleen. Thanks.
In all honesty, I don't usually read YA books because they usually don't have any sex in them. I read Colleen Hoover's, Slammed, because she took a HUGE chance recommending my dark erotica to her mainstream audience. I appreciate the hell out of that.
So, what did I think?
At first, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy the book - that's just me being honest. I thought it hugged the romance 'formula' a little too much for my taste. I admit, I might have walked in with that preconceived notion. However, as I kept reading, I found myself connecting with the emotions in the book. I loved the poetry. I loved the message.
SPOILER ALERT!
My dad past away several years ago. I don't like to think about it. I don't like to read about death and how to cope. I'm more of a push your emotions down into your stomach until they make you sick type of girl - lol. I cried when Layken found that barrette. I find things sometimes and I just sit there and stare.
I empathized with the anger the characters felt over the eventuality of Layken's mother's prognosis. My dad was diagnosed with cancer and was told he would live 6 months. He lived 6 years, but the time never seemed like enough. Also, I was angry about the fact he kept drinking after he was diagnosed. I felt like he was doing it on purpose - shaking his fist at my anger and grief.
I understood Will and Layken's acceptance. Once my father died, I realized he had lived his life the way HE wanted. He deserved that. Everyone deserves to go their own way. I am still here. I have to find my own way. I forgave him a long time ago.
By the end of this book, I was in tears and thinking about my dad, but more than that, I was thinking, 'Colleen Hoover deserves every ounce of her success'. She has written something very special. Like any author worth a shit - she parted with a piece of her soul. I take it with me.
I'm the fan girl, Colleen. Thanks.
August 2, 2014
THIS BOOK <3 CAN'T WAIT TO READ MORE COLLEEN HOOVER! Here's my booktalkhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xi3MA...
November 12, 2012
Rating: 2.5 Stars
Slammed is a book that has been making waves on GoodReads – big waves, popular waves, amazing waves! Waves that have words floating in them like original and heart-breaking and tear-jerker and romantic and deep and thought-provoking. Waves that, quite unfortunately, led me believe that at least some of these qualities, if not all, would be present in Slammed. Needless to say, I was terribly disappointed by the story I found within the covers of this ever-so-popular novel and Slammed failed to make me join its wave of ardent supporters.
First and foremost, I need to give credit where credit is due. I knew absolutely nothing about slam poetry before I read Colleen Hoover’s debut novel, so she gets immediate props for incorporating a rich, unique, and original idea into this tale. Unfortunately, that’s where the originality comes to an end. Slammed starts off with Layken (Lake) moving to Michigan after the sudden death of her father and, like so many female protagonists these days, she immediately meets a dashing young man – Will. Will is twenty-one, handsome, sweet, and Layken is half in love with him the first time they meet. After the second chapter, where Layken and Will go on – what I must admit – is a rather amazing first date, Layken couldn’t be more excited to have moved to Michigan. That’s when things begin to go downhill. Enter the classic obstacle: forbidden love. Layken and Will quickly realize that they can’t be together and Layken’s life is turned upside down, for the second time in a matter of months. If Layken’s growing attraction to her off-the-limits neighbor isn’t enough on her plate, her brother and Will’s brother are best friends (making Will rather unavoidable), her father’s death still hangs over her like the plague, and her mother just may be hiding away the biggest secret of all.
Slammed had an immense amount of potential – potential that could have been changed into a truly fantastic story – if only this had been further edited, poked, and prodded before going into publication. I had a problem with Slammed from the very beginning because Will and Lake’s love story was simply too unbelievable. I definitely believe that two people can have a connection when they meet – one that makes them want to go on a date although they’ve only known each other for hours. I can also believe that a first date may go so splendidly that you end up really liking the person. What I can’t believe is that after a first date you find it physically painful to have to stay away from a person because you’ve already fallen in love with them. Yes, it is probably hard to distance yourself, but Will and Lake had so much passion and steam and lust between them that it felt as if they had known each other for years, not days. It felt far too unrealistic to me. Furthermore, since this entire romance was practically the plot for the whole story, I was constantly reminded about the implausibility of their depth of feelings for each other. I suppose for a serial drama this would suffice, but not for a contemporary romance novel. If Will and Layken’s love story had been better developed and had more than two chapters devoted to it, I would have definitely liked this book a lot better than I did.
That being said, Slammed did have a lot of ideas working for it:
- Tragic Pasts. Nearly every single YA character has some type of tragic or traumatic past, but I felt as if Will, Layken, and Eddie’s past traumas were very realistically portrayed. Eddie, for those of you who haven’t read Slammed yet, is Layken’s best friend and perhaps my favorite character in the story. She, in my opinion, has suffered through so much more than the other characters and yet she still manages to face her life with spunk, happiness, and joy. Furthermore, I loved the little life lessons sprinkled throughout the unfolding of this story – lessons learned from Will, from Layken, and from their interactions with one another. It was sweet and added an informative element to the story that only made it better.
- Relationships. I don’t mean romantic relationships, because you all know how I felt about that one. I’m talking about the relationship Will and Layken had with their younger brothers. I too have a younger brother and can speak from experience and aver that it was very realistic and heart-warming. I also loved how Layken’s relationship with her mother unfolded and progressed. Although I found it a tad bit unrealistic while I read it at first, it grew on me and I realized that if I found out something that traumatic about my own mother, I would probably react in a similar manner – denial. So, all in all, the non-romantic relationships were deep, thoughtful, and provocatively written.
This brings me to my next point – a negative one mind you – about originality. I already said that Hoover incorporated an original idea of slam poetry into this story and I truly enjoyed that, but either than that, this story was shockingly lacking uniqueness. Will and Layken’s relationship played out like a typical forbidden romance plays out – aka an endless game of making out and then walking away and then talking and then making out and then walking away again. It was frustrating and honestly, I wasn’t very invested into their story. I liked Layken and Will as individual characters and I liked them as friends, but somehow when they were together as a couple, I never really saw what was so amazing about the two of them. Furthermore, just when I felt like I was about to give Layken a high-five for moving on, something always happened to make her go back or re-question her decision or something! There was no closure until the end and although the ending was dripping, diabetically, insanely sweet and cute, I felt as if I was choking on endless spoonfuls of cliché. Speaking of clichés, the manner in which Layken’s mother’s secret was handled was also immensely cliché. In fact, it felt as if half the scenes came straight out of the movie Stepmom and all the truly heart-wrenching aspects of this type of a relationship and situation were taken out and replaced by another sickly sweet epilogue. I admire Hoover for tackling on such an important and serious event and I commend her for putting together so much tragedy and pain into one story, but at the end of the day, it just didn’t work. Slammed would probably be better suited as a movie rather than a book because all the details I wanted, the thoughtful insights I yearned to glean, and the provocative ideas that were supposed to be floating in my mind all night never came. Instead, I was just given a giant dose of romance – which wasn’t bad, but I was expecting a lot more.
Slammed is the perfect book if you’re looking for a light, easy, and albeit dramatic read. It’s a quick page turner, it keeps your interest, but it never made me shed a tear. It also never inspired any true emotion in me except for laughter in certain parts and ended up being a lot more vapid than I originally anticipated. For such a popular book, Slammed has a strangely cliché and unoriginal story. Will I be continuing with this series? Yes, because there’s only one more book and as much as I didn’t like this one, I’m hoping the second one will be better. Plus, there’s something almost cathartic about slam poetry – I’m slowly starting to love it. If you pick up Slammed for any reason, pick it up for the poetry. That, more than anything else in the book, is truly worth the hype.
Slammed is a book that has been making waves on GoodReads – big waves, popular waves, amazing waves! Waves that have words floating in them like original and heart-breaking and tear-jerker and romantic and deep and thought-provoking. Waves that, quite unfortunately, led me believe that at least some of these qualities, if not all, would be present in Slammed. Needless to say, I was terribly disappointed by the story I found within the covers of this ever-so-popular novel and Slammed failed to make me join its wave of ardent supporters.
First and foremost, I need to give credit where credit is due. I knew absolutely nothing about slam poetry before I read Colleen Hoover’s debut novel, so she gets immediate props for incorporating a rich, unique, and original idea into this tale. Unfortunately, that’s where the originality comes to an end. Slammed starts off with Layken (Lake) moving to Michigan after the sudden death of her father and, like so many female protagonists these days, she immediately meets a dashing young man – Will. Will is twenty-one, handsome, sweet, and Layken is half in love with him the first time they meet. After the second chapter, where Layken and Will go on – what I must admit – is a rather amazing first date, Layken couldn’t be more excited to have moved to Michigan. That’s when things begin to go downhill. Enter the classic obstacle: forbidden love. Layken and Will quickly realize that they can’t be together and Layken’s life is turned upside down, for the second time in a matter of months. If Layken’s growing attraction to her off-the-limits neighbor isn’t enough on her plate, her brother and Will’s brother are best friends (making Will rather unavoidable), her father’s death still hangs over her like the plague, and her mother just may be hiding away the biggest secret of all.
Slammed had an immense amount of potential – potential that could have been changed into a truly fantastic story – if only this had been further edited, poked, and prodded before going into publication. I had a problem with Slammed from the very beginning because Will and Lake’s love story was simply too unbelievable. I definitely believe that two people can have a connection when they meet – one that makes them want to go on a date although they’ve only known each other for hours. I can also believe that a first date may go so splendidly that you end up really liking the person. What I can’t believe is that after a first date you find it physically painful to have to stay away from a person because you’ve already fallen in love with them. Yes, it is probably hard to distance yourself, but Will and Lake had so much passion and steam and lust between them that it felt as if they had known each other for years, not days. It felt far too unrealistic to me. Furthermore, since this entire romance was practically the plot for the whole story, I was constantly reminded about the implausibility of their depth of feelings for each other. I suppose for a serial drama this would suffice, but not for a contemporary romance novel. If Will and Layken’s love story had been better developed and had more than two chapters devoted to it, I would have definitely liked this book a lot better than I did.
That being said, Slammed did have a lot of ideas working for it:
- Tragic Pasts. Nearly every single YA character has some type of tragic or traumatic past, but I felt as if Will, Layken, and Eddie’s past traumas were very realistically portrayed. Eddie, for those of you who haven’t read Slammed yet, is Layken’s best friend and perhaps my favorite character in the story. She, in my opinion, has suffered through so much more than the other characters and yet she still manages to face her life with spunk, happiness, and joy. Furthermore, I loved the little life lessons sprinkled throughout the unfolding of this story – lessons learned from Will, from Layken, and from their interactions with one another. It was sweet and added an informative element to the story that only made it better.
- Relationships. I don’t mean romantic relationships, because you all know how I felt about that one. I’m talking about the relationship Will and Layken had with their younger brothers. I too have a younger brother and can speak from experience and aver that it was very realistic and heart-warming. I also loved how Layken’s relationship with her mother unfolded and progressed. Although I found it a tad bit unrealistic while I read it at first, it grew on me and I realized that if I found out something that traumatic about my own mother, I would probably react in a similar manner – denial. So, all in all, the non-romantic relationships were deep, thoughtful, and provocatively written.
This brings me to my next point – a negative one mind you – about originality. I already said that Hoover incorporated an original idea of slam poetry into this story and I truly enjoyed that, but either than that, this story was shockingly lacking uniqueness. Will and Layken’s relationship played out like a typical forbidden romance plays out – aka an endless game of making out and then walking away and then talking and then making out and then walking away again. It was frustrating and honestly, I wasn’t very invested into their story. I liked Layken and Will as individual characters and I liked them as friends, but somehow when they were together as a couple, I never really saw what was so amazing about the two of them. Furthermore, just when I felt like I was about to give Layken a high-five for moving on, something always happened to make her go back or re-question her decision or something! There was no closure until the end and although the ending was dripping, diabetically, insanely sweet and cute, I felt as if I was choking on endless spoonfuls of cliché. Speaking of clichés, the manner in which Layken’s mother’s secret was handled was also immensely cliché. In fact, it felt as if half the scenes came straight out of the movie Stepmom and all the truly heart-wrenching aspects of this type of a relationship and situation were taken out and replaced by another sickly sweet epilogue. I admire Hoover for tackling on such an important and serious event and I commend her for putting together so much tragedy and pain into one story, but at the end of the day, it just didn’t work. Slammed would probably be better suited as a movie rather than a book because all the details I wanted, the thoughtful insights I yearned to glean, and the provocative ideas that were supposed to be floating in my mind all night never came. Instead, I was just given a giant dose of romance – which wasn’t bad, but I was expecting a lot more.
Slammed is the perfect book if you’re looking for a light, easy, and albeit dramatic read. It’s a quick page turner, it keeps your interest, but it never made me shed a tear. It also never inspired any true emotion in me except for laughter in certain parts and ended up being a lot more vapid than I originally anticipated. For such a popular book, Slammed has a strangely cliché and unoriginal story. Will I be continuing with this series? Yes, because there’s only one more book and as much as I didn’t like this one, I’m hoping the second one will be better. Plus, there’s something almost cathartic about slam poetry – I’m slowly starting to love it. If you pick up Slammed for any reason, pick it up for the poetry. That, more than anything else in the book, is truly worth the hype.
May 26, 2012
This was such a moving story! I couldn't put this down once I started reading.
Eighteen year-old Layken, or Lake, has just moved to Michigan from Texas. Her father has just died six months earlier and her mother moves them there because she gets a good job offer and they can no longer afford their house. Immediately after pulling up with the moving van, Lake meets the neighbor across the street, Will, and his little brother Caulder. He's a few years older than Lake, and in her eyes, "hot." Caulder and Lake's younger brother, Kel are fast friends, playing the minute Kel jumps out of the moving van. Lake is happy that at least this move won't suck for her little brother. Although things start looking up for Lake when Will asks her out on a date.
Will is so different from most guys and so forward. It shocks Lake a little. Their first date is different and in my opinion, amazing! He takes her to a poetry slam which before reading this, I had no idea what it was. It's where people get up in front of an audience and perform a piece of poetry they've written. It's not typical poetry, more like a soul-bearing piece, written and then performed. She's is mesmerized by the first performance and then when Will gets up and performs his, she's a goner! She is taken by him and falls hard, and fast. And he's fallen hard for her, too. Here's a quote from that night that gives me shivers: "Patience." he whispers. You don't think that's much? Wait until you read the scene! Lake discovers she has a lot in common with Will. Unfortunately straight after this date, they discover a block to their relationship and have to keep apart. Here's a heartbreaking quote for you:
"God Layken. How do you do it?" she says. "How do I do what?" I sniff as I continue to wipe the tears from my eyes. "How do you not fall in love with him?" The tears begin flowing just as quickly as they had ceased….."I don't not fall in love with him. I don't not fall in love with him a lot!"
Add to this, Lake's mom is all of a sudden leaving often for unexplained errands. As suddenly as things seemed to be falling in place, everything has fallen apart.
I can't tell you how much I loved this story. I connected so deeply with Lake and Will. I adored the little brothers, Caulder and Kel, and Lake's mom too (even though I was a little angry with her for some things). My heart was pulled in lots of different directions. The reason Lake and Will must stay apart is not Will's fault, but you can't help but blame and get mad at him for his actions. Even when you know you shouldn't. Lake writes and recites a poem and you're right there cheering her on. I know I'm being vague, but I seriously don't want to spoil this for any who haven't read it. This story pulls on all your heart strings! There's also a fair amount of humor in this story that lifts the mood in just the right places.
This was such a heartwarming story! I read the sequel straight after because I didn't want to let these character go! Don't let the fact that this is a self-published novel fool you. This was a truly amazing debut for Colleen Hoover. I'll definitely be reading whatever she writes next.
This review and more can be found on The Readers Den
July 7, 2017
3 Stars
I loved that the book focused on the stages of grief and the significance of healing other than the romance. However, I feel like I would've enjoyed this book so much more if there wasn't the infamous insta-love. I lost my connection with the book the moment Layken "Lake" Cohen and Will Cooper became emotionally attached to each other in an instant. Would it have been better if they started off as "friends" rather than having their relationship fast-forwarded to "forbidden love"?
The best parts of this book were Lake and her family's interactions. There were times when I found myself having the difficulty to take everything in because of the tear-jerking exchange of dialogues between her and her mom. And oh, I loved the poetry that the characters rendered. And Kel and Caulder are adorable kids, too.
I conclude that Slammed wasn't one of those Colleen Hoover books that gave me such an indefinable feeling. It wasn't as good and unforgettable as November 9 and Confess, but I loved the life lessons that it inspired as a whole. But please, no more insta-love. Please.
“Life happens. Shit happens. And it happens a lot. To a lot of people.”
I loved that the book focused on the stages of grief and the significance of healing other than the romance. However, I feel like I would've enjoyed this book so much more if there wasn't the infamous insta-love. I lost my connection with the book the moment Layken "Lake" Cohen and Will Cooper became emotionally attached to each other in an instant. Would it have been better if they started off as "friends" rather than having their relationship fast-forwarded to "forbidden love"?
The best parts of this book were Lake and her family's interactions. There were times when I found myself having the difficulty to take everything in because of the tear-jerking exchange of dialogues between her and her mom. And oh, I loved the poetry that the characters rendered. And Kel and Caulder are adorable kids, too.
I conclude that Slammed wasn't one of those Colleen Hoover books that gave me such an indefinable feeling. It wasn't as good and unforgettable as November 9 and Confess, but I loved the life lessons that it inspired as a whole. But please, no more insta-love. Please.
February 22, 2017
I stopped reading after she said the overused line "I'm not like other girls."
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