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pam_kulp's review against another edition
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
3.5
booagnes's review against another edition
2.0
Sometimes you read a book, enjoy it, but aren't quite certain what to do about it. That might not make sense, but that best describes my feelings after finishing The Summer I Found You. I feel like this was a good idea, but the execution needs a little more tweaking and editing. I can usually look through editing and grammar mistakes in advanced copies, as I assume those flubs will be fixed before the book release. I know that nobody is perfect, but if those mistakes cause me to get lost or confused or hinder my enjoyment of the story, that's when I'll mention it. This rating would have been higher, if not for the mistakes that made me have to read sentences or paragraphs over again, just so I could try to see what the author was trying to say.
With that said and out of the way, I did really like the story in and of itself. It was nice to see two broken people come together and form such an unexpected, but real bond. I also haven't read many (or possibly any) books involving people in the military, so that was a nice change for me. I liked both Aidan and Kate for the most part, which is good as the story is told from both their points of view. I must admit, I don't really see what the big deal was about Kate's diabetes. It's not like it's anything to be ashamed of, so I don't know why she wouldn't tell Aidan; especially considering he'd probably be the one person to understand a life-altering thing like that. I do like that Kate is able to see how her now ex-boyfriend Shelton probably wasn't that great after all. Sometimes in young adult books, a girl gets dumped and spends most of the story either moping over the boy or trying to get him back. I didn't want to see her get back together with Shelton, nor did I want to have to read about her moping and whining about it through the book. In that sense, I think the whole breakup aftermath was done much better than a lot of others portrayed in the genre. On the flipside, I didn't like how Kate wasn't really "getting it" when it came to her diabetes. It seemed more like she was just trying to pretend it wasn't there, which wasn't good for her at all. Aidan, on the other hand, wants to learn how to live with his new handicap, but doesn't necessarily know where to start. I liked that he had a lot of people to help guide him in ways that he can figure out what he wants to do with his new life. Sure, he got frustrated and angry about it a lot, but that's kind of to be expected. I liked how open he was with Kate, too. He didn't really seem to be able to hold things back from her even if he tried. That's really refreshing for a guy in YA. I liked that he was pretty close with his mom, too. His situation after returning from Afghanistan might not be ideal, but he has a pretty solid family and support system.
The relationship between Aidan and Kate is one that kind of moves quickly, but for some reason that didn't bother me. I think the main reason I was okay with the speed of it all was because it wasn't an insta-love type of relationship. It happened pretty naturally, despite how quick it was. They both realized they were broken and, though it's definitely not recommended, they were utilizing the other person as a distraction for the tough things in their lives. Like I said, it's not the best thing to do, but at least they weren't fooling themselves into thinking they're ready. What I like about the romance in this book is that their affection for one another comes as a surprise to them. For the most part, they were fairly comfortable with one another, though they had no intention of being anything more than friends. The relationship builds, layer upon layer. I think they're really good for one another and it makes sense that they would be together.
I thought the pace of the story might drag, but I was very pleased that it didn't seem that way to me. Again, the relationship progressed fairly quickly, but the story itself felt rather organic. (I usually hate using the word "organic" to describe something - probably because of too many art classes - but it definitely works here.) I think I would have finished this earlier if the editing had been a little bit better, making the words themselves flow easier. Oh yeah! Another issue I had was with the title. The story takes place during the school year. At no point does it make its way to summer. Sometimes I don't particularly like a title, but I can see how it makes sense. With The Summer I Found You, however, the title just doesn't makes sense in any way, shape or form. I was wondering if it was maybe just a working title at first, but it stuck even after edits. I don't know. What I do know is that the title doesn't work and is even a little bit misleading.
For the most part, I really did like The Summer I Found You. I liked being able to be inside the heads of these characters and get to know them. It's a rather quick read, so those who want a pleasant story and don't mind wading through some mistakes, I say give it a try. The two main characters are definitely redeeming enough to worm their way into your heart.
With that said and out of the way, I did really like the story in and of itself. It was nice to see two broken people come together and form such an unexpected, but real bond. I also haven't read many (or possibly any) books involving people in the military, so that was a nice change for me. I liked both Aidan and Kate for the most part, which is good as the story is told from both their points of view. I must admit, I don't really see what the big deal was about Kate's diabetes. It's not like it's anything to be ashamed of, so I don't know why she wouldn't tell Aidan; especially considering he'd probably be the one person to understand a life-altering thing like that. I do like that Kate is able to see how her now ex-boyfriend Shelton probably wasn't that great after all. Sometimes in young adult books, a girl gets dumped and spends most of the story either moping over the boy or trying to get him back. I didn't want to see her get back together with Shelton, nor did I want to have to read about her moping and whining about it through the book. In that sense, I think the whole breakup aftermath was done much better than a lot of others portrayed in the genre. On the flipside, I didn't like how Kate wasn't really "getting it" when it came to her diabetes. It seemed more like she was just trying to pretend it wasn't there, which wasn't good for her at all. Aidan, on the other hand, wants to learn how to live with his new handicap, but doesn't necessarily know where to start. I liked that he had a lot of people to help guide him in ways that he can figure out what he wants to do with his new life. Sure, he got frustrated and angry about it a lot, but that's kind of to be expected. I liked how open he was with Kate, too. He didn't really seem to be able to hold things back from her even if he tried. That's really refreshing for a guy in YA. I liked that he was pretty close with his mom, too. His situation after returning from Afghanistan might not be ideal, but he has a pretty solid family and support system.
The relationship between Aidan and Kate is one that kind of moves quickly, but for some reason that didn't bother me. I think the main reason I was okay with the speed of it all was because it wasn't an insta-love type of relationship. It happened pretty naturally, despite how quick it was. They both realized they were broken and, though it's definitely not recommended, they were utilizing the other person as a distraction for the tough things in their lives. Like I said, it's not the best thing to do, but at least they weren't fooling themselves into thinking they're ready. What I like about the romance in this book is that their affection for one another comes as a surprise to them. For the most part, they were fairly comfortable with one another, though they had no intention of being anything more than friends. The relationship builds, layer upon layer. I think they're really good for one another and it makes sense that they would be together.
I thought the pace of the story might drag, but I was very pleased that it didn't seem that way to me. Again, the relationship progressed fairly quickly, but the story itself felt rather organic. (I usually hate using the word "organic" to describe something - probably because of too many art classes - but it definitely works here.) I think I would have finished this earlier if the editing had been a little bit better, making the words themselves flow easier. Oh yeah! Another issue I had was with the title. The story takes place during the school year. At no point does it make its way to summer. Sometimes I don't particularly like a title, but I can see how it makes sense. With The Summer I Found You, however, the title just doesn't makes sense in any way, shape or form. I was wondering if it was maybe just a working title at first, but it stuck even after edits. I don't know. What I do know is that the title doesn't work and is even a little bit misleading.
For the most part, I really did like The Summer I Found You. I liked being able to be inside the heads of these characters and get to know them. It's a rather quick read, so those who want a pleasant story and don't mind wading through some mistakes, I say give it a try. The two main characters are definitely redeeming enough to worm their way into your heart.
sienaro's review against another edition
2.0
My first problem with this book begins with the cover and the title. The title of a book should tell you what the book is about, it sets the tone for the whole novel. THIS BOOK DIDN’T EVEN TAKE PLACE IN THE SUMMER. The entirety of the book takes place through the school year. Also, the cover photo is on the beach and the book does not take place near the beach. If it does, its definitely not mentioned.
Then, we get into the characters. Kate, the most beautiful young lady ever who basically everyone acknowledges is super hot, is a virgin and completely inept when it comes to boys. Shelton, the first boy that’s introduced, could be awesome. He’s a well trimmed, clean cut black guy (for those of you reading my review that previously read the book and are all, wait, Shelton is black? yes, exactly. HE IS SO UNMEMORABLE) and he breaks up with Kate because, well, he’s vague in Kate’s interpretation. Soon after, he has a girl on his arm, Tamara, who is a cheerleader. Cliché, much? Then Jen, Kate’s best friend is over protective of Kate while simultaneously trying to get Kate out of her shell. Meanwhile, Jen also tries to set up Kate with her cousin, Aidan, but when Kate and Aidan actually get together, she’s not happy. So, make up your mind?
Then Aidan. Sigh. He’s a veteran and he has one arm. He’s also very self centered and weird about Kate once they’re together. But hey, they communicate kinda well if you consider asking lots of touchy questions communicating well, but not discussing the fact that Kate has a serious illness.
Plus, we also have overprotective parents, the deciding on college subplot, Kate’s pregnant older sister who just got married and is already on shaky grounds with her forgettable husband, and a very briefly mentioned prom (will she take Aidan now??) and Jen’s unresolved relationship with her boyfriend.
Too much going on, too much poorly executed.
1.5/5
Then, we get into the characters. Kate, the most beautiful young lady ever who basically everyone acknowledges is super hot, is a virgin and completely inept when it comes to boys. Shelton, the first boy that’s introduced, could be awesome. He’s a well trimmed, clean cut black guy (for those of you reading my review that previously read the book and are all, wait, Shelton is black? yes, exactly. HE IS SO UNMEMORABLE) and he breaks up with Kate because, well, he’s vague in Kate’s interpretation. Soon after, he has a girl on his arm, Tamara, who is a cheerleader. Cliché, much? Then Jen, Kate’s best friend is over protective of Kate while simultaneously trying to get Kate out of her shell. Meanwhile, Jen also tries to set up Kate with her cousin, Aidan, but when Kate and Aidan actually get together, she’s not happy. So, make up your mind?
Then Aidan. Sigh. He’s a veteran and he has one arm. He’s also very self centered and weird about Kate once they’re together. But hey, they communicate kinda well if you consider asking lots of touchy questions communicating well, but not discussing the fact that Kate has a serious illness.
Plus, we also have overprotective parents, the deciding on college subplot, Kate’s pregnant older sister who just got married and is already on shaky grounds with her forgettable husband, and a very briefly mentioned prom (will she take Aidan now??) and Jen’s unresolved relationship with her boyfriend.
Too much going on, too much poorly executed.
1.5/5
michalice's review against another edition
3.0
When I first heard about The Summer I Found You and then saw the gorgeous cover I knew I had to read it. I began reading with a lot of eagerness, looking forward to reading another of Jolene's books.
The Summer I Found You begins with Kate getting dumped by boyfriend, a few weeks before prom, as he thinks it 'too serious', leaving her broken hearted, and feeling lost.
In the beginning of The Summer I Found You I felt sorry for Kate, within a few pages we discover that she has type 1 diabetes, which involves a lot of blood testing, and food monitoring, which Kate isn't so good at doing. Her parents are strict inn the way they treat her with this, wanting her to have independence, but also taking things away from her in order for her to understand how serious her situation is. Seeing how her parents act is something I can relate to, although I don't have diabetes, I had bad asthma growing up and my parents were strict on making sure I took my inhalers at the exact times I was meant to, writing it down, and monitoring my peak flow. However, as things get out of hand for Kate, I thought she was selfish for not thinking about the consequences of not looking after herself, or how it would affect her friends and family. Her parents only want what is best for her, and by ignoring their advice and warnings she is putting her life in serious danger.
Aidan has to go through so much, he lost his arm in the war and he is basically learning how to live again with just the use of one arm. Seeing how much he has to go through just to eat cereal, get dressed, drive, was no easy feat and I had a lot of respect for him. A few times I wanted to kick his ass for being stubborn in dealing with some issues, but I admire him for finally getting his act together and crossing off things off his list. Some of the things he does take a lot of guts and courage and his determination to cross off everything on his list is true inspiration.
The Summer I Found You was a quick read that only took a few hours to finish, I thought it was enjoyable but it didn't necessarily wow me. I like the friendships that Kate has with a few select people, and seeing how they look out for her made me smile. I also liked seeing how the bond with her parents and her sister are strengthened by what she experiences in The Summer I Found You. Aiden was a strong character that stands out on his own merit, and the interaction between himself and Kate was hilarious, especially with the lack of filter for Kate.
To be honest I'm not really sure on why I didn't fall in love with The Summer I Found You, and only 'in like' with it, I think it just lacked the spark at this moment in time for me.
The Summer I Found You begins with Kate getting dumped by boyfriend, a few weeks before prom, as he thinks it 'too serious', leaving her broken hearted, and feeling lost.
In the beginning of The Summer I Found You I felt sorry for Kate, within a few pages we discover that she has type 1 diabetes, which involves a lot of blood testing, and food monitoring, which Kate isn't so good at doing. Her parents are strict inn the way they treat her with this, wanting her to have independence, but also taking things away from her in order for her to understand how serious her situation is. Seeing how her parents act is something I can relate to, although I don't have diabetes, I had bad asthma growing up and my parents were strict on making sure I took my inhalers at the exact times I was meant to, writing it down, and monitoring my peak flow. However, as things get out of hand for Kate, I thought she was selfish for not thinking about the consequences of not looking after herself, or how it would affect her friends and family. Her parents only want what is best for her, and by ignoring their advice and warnings she is putting her life in serious danger.
Aidan has to go through so much, he lost his arm in the war and he is basically learning how to live again with just the use of one arm. Seeing how much he has to go through just to eat cereal, get dressed, drive, was no easy feat and I had a lot of respect for him. A few times I wanted to kick his ass for being stubborn in dealing with some issues, but I admire him for finally getting his act together and crossing off things off his list. Some of the things he does take a lot of guts and courage and his determination to cross off everything on his list is true inspiration.
The Summer I Found You was a quick read that only took a few hours to finish, I thought it was enjoyable but it didn't necessarily wow me. I like the friendships that Kate has with a few select people, and seeing how they look out for her made me smile. I also liked seeing how the bond with her parents and her sister are strengthened by what she experiences in The Summer I Found You. Aiden was a strong character that stands out on his own merit, and the interaction between himself and Kate was hilarious, especially with the lack of filter for Kate.
To be honest I'm not really sure on why I didn't fall in love with The Summer I Found You, and only 'in like' with it, I think it just lacked the spark at this moment in time for me.
haleyelisereads's review against another edition
4.0
The Summer I Found You follows through the eyes of 17 year old Kate, who has just been dumped by her boyfriend of over a year Shelton. Kate is upset, and doesn’t know what to do. On top of going through the breakup she is still struggling with her Type 1 Diabetes, her family is worried about her since she is not taking it seriously, and she just wants it to go away.
The Summer I Found You also follows the eyes of 19 year old Aiden. Aiden has just come back from Afghanistan, after losing his right arm, and his friend Pilot. He’s having nightmares, sweating in his sleep, and has no idea what to do with his life now.
These two will come together in a romance, but do they really have something, or are they both just using each other as a distraction from the chaos of their lives.
Jolene Perry is an author I have loved for along time, I have read 4 of her novels now and plan on reading many more. She is one of my favorite contemporary writers if it be YA novels or NA novels. Her novels are always so realistic, so heart breaking and warming, and she writes some great romance. Anyone that enjoys contemporary romance I highly suggest checking out her books, I have loved all 4 of her novels I have read! (Night Sky, Knee Deep, Falling, and The Summer I Found You)
This was such a splendid read! I completely devoured this book Monday morning, it’s a short book (240 pages) so it didn’t take me too long finish. Even though this book was shorter I could not believe how well I felt I knew the characters by the end of it.
Kate and Aiden were both character that were so easy to love, and feel sorry for everything they were going through at such a young age. Even though both of them were going through so much I still felt they handled everything very well. Besides Kate and Aiden, Kate’s parents were both characters that were very likable, along with Kate’s best friend Jen who is the complete opposite of her.
Overall I just adored this book. There was romance, heart break, grief, struggle, friendship, family, everything that makes up an amazing heartwarming contemporary novel. For anyone not ready for the chilly weather that is going to hit Washington, and want a sweet contemporary novel, then I highly recommend The Summer I Found You.
readingfromfrance's review against another edition
2.0
ARC reçu via Netgalley.
Ok, je viens de finir se livre et je suis encore indécise.
C'est une lecture de plage, ultra rapide, simple, et pas prise de tête même si au fond la vie des personnages est assez compliquées. Le véritable problème que j'ai eu c'est Kate. Si j'avais pu je l'aurais étranglée, plus égoïste et irresponsable y a pas. J'ai été obligée de m'arrêter de le lire quelques heures parceque je commençais vraiment à être frustrée. Mais en contre partie j'ai BEAUCOUP aimé Aidan, beaucoup plus réalistes, beaucoup plus responsable et un bien meilleur exemple pour le public target de ce livre.
Je vais laissé mon esprit assimilé tout ça et écrirait une revue plus structurée plus tard.
Ok, je viens de finir se livre et je suis encore indécise.
C'est une lecture de plage, ultra rapide, simple, et pas prise de tête même si au fond la vie des personnages est assez compliquées. Le véritable problème que j'ai eu c'est Kate. Si j'avais pu je l'aurais étranglée, plus égoïste et irresponsable y a pas. J'ai été obligée de m'arrêter de le lire quelques heures parceque je commençais vraiment à être frustrée. Mais en contre partie j'ai BEAUCOUP aimé Aidan, beaucoup plus réalistes, beaucoup plus responsable et un bien meilleur exemple pour le public target de ce livre.
Je vais laissé mon esprit assimilé tout ça et écrirait une revue plus structurée plus tard.
dizzybell06's review against another edition
3.0
This was a very quick book to read. It was a little strange that the book didn't take place during the summer considering it's title. While I did enjoy this book, I think it could have been longer and gone into more detail with the characters struggles. The book touches on two major things that a lot of books do not discuss and I think it could have been explained more and gone more into detail about the struggles these characters face on a daily basis.
missjessie182's review against another edition
5.0
I got to read this early thanks to NetGalley and i was not disappointed.i when into reading this book not know what this book was about,i just loved the cover. i love going into books blind not knowing anything. i found myself not able to put in down and read it in one sitting.
The Summer I Found You by Jolene Perry was a very real read for myself. Having just found out a few months ago that a family member has diabetes made this book so much more real. I found myself feeling that this could happen to anyone; both Kate and Aidan story lines are so real. I found myself wanting to tell them that it would be fine and they would make it. I love Aidan, his story line and how Jolene written him.She put real emotion into his character and you can really see that in the book. He is one of the best male written characters that i have read in a long time. She made me feel for him and at the right moments she makes you want to yell at him, then the next just hold him. As for Kate, Jolene did a great job writing how most teenage would act if that happen to them, pretended it’s not happening it in till it goes away. She really put work into how she written Kate,making her strong and weak all at the same time. i like when you read a story where the main character is strong but weak all at the same time.It makes you believe that this character is like a real person.No one is strong all the time.
I give this book a five out five stars.I am going to tell everyone to read this book. It’s the right mix of realism and romance to make everyone happy. I will for sure read this again. This is the second book I have read by Jolene Perry and will not be my last.
The Summer I Found You by Jolene Perry was a very real read for myself. Having just found out a few months ago that a family member has diabetes made this book so much more real. I found myself feeling that this could happen to anyone; both Kate and Aidan story lines are so real. I found myself wanting to tell them that it would be fine and they would make it. I love Aidan, his story line and how Jolene written him.She put real emotion into his character and you can really see that in the book. He is one of the best male written characters that i have read in a long time. She made me feel for him and at the right moments she makes you want to yell at him, then the next just hold him. As for Kate, Jolene did a great job writing how most teenage would act if that happen to them, pretended it’s not happening it in till it goes away. She really put work into how she written Kate,making her strong and weak all at the same time. i like when you read a story where the main character is strong but weak all at the same time.It makes you believe that this character is like a real person.No one is strong all the time.
I give this book a five out five stars.I am going to tell everyone to read this book. It’s the right mix of realism and romance to make everyone happy. I will for sure read this again. This is the second book I have read by Jolene Perry and will not be my last.
crazycatlady1998's review against another edition
3.0
I like the book but it didnt explain what happens after the book it just ended