Released: June 2010
Publisher: Arthur A. Levine Books
Genre:Young Adult - Contemporary - Romance
Pages:272
Source: Publisher
Rating: ♥♥♥♥.5
Seventeen-year-old Bronwen Oliver doesn't just want a family. She has one of those, and there's nothing terribly wrong with them apart from bickering grandparents, an image-obsessed mother and a brother she describes simply as Jesus. But there's no natural sense of connection between Bronwen and her family, leaving her with the belief -- and the hope -- that she was switched at birth, that she was never supposed to be Bronwen Oliver but someone else entirely.
When she begins dating college senior Jared Sondervan, she finds herself thoroughly embraced by the loving family she has always wanted and does not hesitate to say yes when Jared proposes on her 18th birhday. Plans for the Perfect Beach Wedding before her junior year of college become plans for the Perfect Beach Wedding before her freshman year of college. And a wedding so soon isn't exactly what Bronwen wants. But Jared is. And his family is. Or so she thinks.
Before Bronwen can determine what she truly wants, she must first determine who she truly is, and the answer, she discovers, is only partially what she thought it was. She wasn't switched at birth, but she's also not Bronwen Oliver and hasn't been for a very long time.
If you're looking for a fun charming read then I've found it for you. Meet Phoebe Lilywhite. A daughter to a wonderful family that doesn't mind her big teeth or want her to keep dying her hair blonde. At least, that's what seventeen year old Bronwen Oliver likes to sometimes dream she is. Being switched at birth is the only explanation of why her and her mother have nothing in common.
Bronwen's voice really made this book. It was catchy, up beat and full of witty moments. The way she viewed her family had me cracking up. I think we can all relate to a moment where we thought we were adopted. (Or you could be like me, and have a lovely older sister who made you believe you in fact were!) A real family life is something Bronwen never really thought she have since her father's death. Then Jared and his fun-loving family comes along and Bronwen finally finds the life she's been so desperately seeking.
Or has she?
While slightly predictable, you go on the journey with Bronwen through this very cute romance that her and Jared hold. During their relationship you get to know Bronwen outside of the sarcastic front she shows off to everyone. I love how she made mistakes and knew when she had. I loved how she kept questioning her actions and wondering if she should get married to Jared. McCahan did a wonderful job on creating such a well rounded character that I think many teens and non-teens will be able to relate to.
My only compliant is that I thought the ending was a bit rushed. I wish it would have been developed more, but none the less I really enjoyed this read and suggest you get yourself a copy!
♥amber
13 comments:
Amber, I completely agree! I loved this book so much, it was like a much-needed breath of fresh air. The characters were awesome and Erin's writing was so addictive. I can't wait for her next book!
Sounds like an interesting light read, which I could most definitely use. I might look into reading this book. Thanks for the review. ^_^
This sounds like a fun read! Thanks for the engaging review :)
Great review! I'm glad you enjoyed this book, I did too!
Again, not really my style. I love the fact your blog has made me wonder outside of just one or two genres of books though :)
Looks really good. I love the cover!
Great post! You won me over! I'm heading out to get one!
I love the cover!
I loved the cover too :D! I've been wanting to get this book for a while now, seems like easy reading & I love reading 'em to escape my daily work troubles and tantrums.
Great review!
You know what, I've actually never really felt that whole "I must be adopted" feeling. I have felt a little envious other other families at times though.
Thank you for the review. It sounds like such a light and fun read. I'll keep an eye out for it. :)
Looks like a great book.
Vivien
Whoa. This sounds like a really great read. Thanks for the rec!
I have been wanting so badly to read this. YA could use more well rounded female protagonists and Bronwen sounds like a great character. Yeah rushed endings can be a bit annoying but this book sounds like it had a lot going in its favor despite that. Thanks for the great review! :D
~Briana
I look forward to a light read every once in a while to break up the intense horror books that I usually read. ....Tiffypoot @ (aol.com)
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