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alyssaindira's review
4.0
**I received an ARC of this novel through BookSirens, thank you a ton! This has not impacted my review in any way**
**No major plot spoilers are harmed in this review**
“One day you’ll find someone who really is exactly who you think, and he’ll be worth it.”
Hey guys, so I finished this book and I was actually surprised at how much I enjoyed it. From the description, I thought it would be a pretty alright novel; however, I was not expecting just how deep this novel was and all that it entails. Okay, first, the writing style is pretty easy to digest. The author uses just enough background details to sink you into the setting of this story and to get to know the characters, without going overboard or underboard with descriptions. I thought it was the right amount of details necessary to convey both character intent, emotion, scenic details, and plotline/storyline furthering. The writing style made it easy to consume without feeling as if you are missing out on vital plot details. In my opinion, the heart of the story were the characters. The characters in this novel are the ones who propel the plot without being plot devices. Their words, feelings and behaviors did not feel forced, it felt natural to the situation around them. To be honest, I felt like how the characters handled some of the events in the novel were pretty accurate and a bit soul hitting. The themes the characters struggle with are so relateable: should you change yourself for a guy, parental issues, self image issue, who do you want to be v. who others think you should be, all that. I really felt like they were handled in an appropriate way that made you ache, cry but also burst with joy and happiness for the characters. Especially Brynn.
Byrnn goes through so much in this novel, more than a normal teenager should have to go through. But you know what? She is tough, amazing, and strong, she is Brynn, no one else and no one should try to change her. If they do, well then, maybe they arent worthy of knowing who you truly are. I also found the side characters to be great too, her friends, and their bond, their sister hood, the way that they demostrate that love comes in many shapes and sizes. They also demonstrated the different ways different people may respond to the same event.
As for the love interest, not going to lie I was slightly biased towards him because he reminded me alot of my guy friend. He was charming, humorous, always there to talk to about anything without being judgmental, so caring and protective and just, the type of friend you know you can always count on and is reliable in a time of crisis. What more could you ask for?
Another thing I enjoyed about this novel was the mythology. I am a sucker for greek mythology and I found it funny and accurate the way the author portrayed it. it was both easy to understand but also funny, and memorable. Similar to how Rick Riordan writes his myth tales.
So yeah, I enjoyed this novel, but remember, this is all my opinion. If you want your own, read the book. Till next time.
**No major plot spoilers are harmed in this review**
“One day you’ll find someone who really is exactly who you think, and he’ll be worth it.”
Hey guys, so I finished this book and I was actually surprised at how much I enjoyed it. From the description, I thought it would be a pretty alright novel; however, I was not expecting just how deep this novel was and all that it entails. Okay, first, the writing style is pretty easy to digest. The author uses just enough background details to sink you into the setting of this story and to get to know the characters, without going overboard or underboard with descriptions. I thought it was the right amount of details necessary to convey both character intent, emotion, scenic details, and plotline/storyline furthering. The writing style made it easy to consume without feeling as if you are missing out on vital plot details. In my opinion, the heart of the story were the characters. The characters in this novel are the ones who propel the plot without being plot devices. Their words, feelings and behaviors did not feel forced, it felt natural to the situation around them. To be honest, I felt like how the characters handled some of the events in the novel were pretty accurate and a bit soul hitting. The themes the characters struggle with are so relateable: should you change yourself for a guy, parental issues, self image issue, who do you want to be v. who others think you should be, all that. I really felt like they were handled in an appropriate way that made you ache, cry but also burst with joy and happiness for the characters. Especially Brynn.
Byrnn goes through so much in this novel, more than a normal teenager should have to go through. But you know what? She is tough, amazing, and strong, she is Brynn, no one else and no one should try to change her. If they do, well then, maybe they arent worthy of knowing who you truly are. I also found the side characters to be great too, her friends, and their bond, their sister hood, the way that they demostrate that love comes in many shapes and sizes. They also demonstrated the different ways different people may respond to the same event.
As for the love interest, not going to lie I was slightly biased towards him because he reminded me alot of my guy friend. He was charming, humorous, always there to talk to about anything without being judgmental, so caring and protective and just, the type of friend you know you can always count on and is reliable in a time of crisis. What more could you ask for?
Another thing I enjoyed about this novel was the mythology. I am a sucker for greek mythology and I found it funny and accurate the way the author portrayed it. it was both easy to understand but also funny, and memorable. Similar to how Rick Riordan writes his myth tales.
So yeah, I enjoyed this novel, but remember, this is all my opinion. If you want your own, read the book. Till next time.
aldarakamey's review
4.0
This book was read thanks to NetGalley
I have seen people recommend for fans of Percy Jackson, just because Aphrodite is on it, but to me this is a recommendation yes for fans of the Greek mythology, but those who love comedies because the way I laugh with this one.
It's a great book, I recommend it.
I have seen people recommend for fans of Percy Jackson, just because Aphrodite is on it, but to me this is a recommendation yes for fans of the Greek mythology, but those who love comedies because the way I laugh with this one.
It's a great book, I recommend it.
faiirygirl's review
1.0
Thanks to Netgallery for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the initial concept of this book: Greek Goddess in disguise as a teenage girl trying to help her friend find love. The delivery of this premise, however, fell very flat.
The book would suit a younger audience, more teen than YA, but I do not think the target audience will be able to relate to the characters at all as there is rarely a mention of social media. Modern teenagers' lives are dictated by social media. This novel felt like it was written about teenagers 15 years ago rather than in present time (which I think it is supposed to be set, but this is vague).
The "mythology" in this book is poorly researched and badly executed. At the start there is a mention of the characters studying the Trojan War which seemed a promising lead-in to Val revealing who she was but the author promptly forgot about it.
The characters were difficult to like, especially Val who was downright irritating. Brynn made it very clear from the outset she was not interested in love and yet Val continued to pressure her to find it, despite the fact they are supposed to be teenagers? As an immortal goddess you'd think she would have better things to do than try to force awkward teenagers to find love.
I liked the initial concept of this book: Greek Goddess in disguise as a teenage girl trying to help her friend find love. The delivery of this premise, however, fell very flat.
The book would suit a younger audience, more teen than YA, but I do not think the target audience will be able to relate to the characters at all as there is rarely a mention of social media. Modern teenagers' lives are dictated by social media. This novel felt like it was written about teenagers 15 years ago rather than in present time (which I think it is supposed to be set, but this is vague).
The "mythology" in this book is poorly researched and badly executed. At the start there is a mention of the characters studying the Trojan War which seemed a promising lead-in to Val revealing who she was but the author promptly forgot about it.
The characters were difficult to like, especially Val who was downright irritating. Brynn made it very clear from the outset she was not interested in love and yet Val continued to pressure her to find it, despite the fact they are supposed to be teenagers? As an immortal goddess you'd think she would have better things to do than try to force awkward teenagers to find love.
alivaster's review against another edition
3.0
I received “Never Say Never” by Justine Manzano from the publisher as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This book could have easily been a 4.5 star because I truly enjoyed reading this book. I finished the book in two sittings! It was quick-paced, fun, and had the usual (though also a little stereotypical) cast of characters you see in romances back in the day - minus Val who is Aphrodite. This book was also really lighthearted.
I really liked the premise of the book and enjoyed the story. Even though I didn’t like Val, I had to remind myself it’s because she was a Greek Goddess so over-the-top made sense. What caused stars to be lost? It was because I was disappointed in the execution of the Greek Goddess element and I was perplexed with how the ending played out. I don’t know how I expected it to end, but it felt like it came out of left field and it left me reeling. After that, I found it difficult to get back into the story and actually enjoy it. I didn’t believe in Val’s redemption and I think that her ending arc was a big factor of what took me out of the story. If the ending and mythological factors were executed just a little better, I know this story would’ve reached the next level.
Again, I still enjoyed the book and I would recommend it to anyone who would like a story that had some serious topics, but takes it in a way that isn’t too intense.
This book could have easily been a 4.5 star because I truly enjoyed reading this book. I finished the book in two sittings! It was quick-paced, fun, and had the usual (though also a little stereotypical) cast of characters you see in romances back in the day - minus Val who is Aphrodite. This book was also really lighthearted.
I really liked the premise of the book and enjoyed the story. Even though I didn’t like Val, I had to remind myself it’s because she was a Greek Goddess so over-the-top made sense. What caused stars to be lost? It was because I was disappointed in the execution of the Greek Goddess element and I was perplexed with how the ending played out. I don’t know how I expected it to end, but it felt like it came out of left field and it left me reeling. After that, I found it difficult to get back into the story and actually enjoy it. I didn’t believe in Val’s redemption and I think that her ending arc was a big factor of what took me out of the story. If the ending and mythological factors were executed just a little better, I know this story would’ve reached the next level.
Again, I still enjoyed the book and I would recommend it to anyone who would like a story that had some serious topics, but takes it in a way that isn’t too intense.
zillanovikov's review
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
This was a very fun, very sassy YA romance. Bonus points for a story where the friendships were just as important as the romance, and where family is who we unconditionally love not who we share genetics with. A great read to lift your mood, if you want a heartfelt YA comfort read.
2nd2lastunicorn's review
4.0
Super cute fast read!
Aphrodite is banished to earth for the events of Troy and hundreds of years later falls into Brynn’s life and is determined to make her believe in love again. Brynn wants nothing to do with love seeing as her own parents aren't in love anymore, it’s all just magic that doesn’t exist so why bother?
Aphrodite is banished to earth for the events of Troy and hundreds of years later falls into Brynn’s life and is determined to make her believe in love again. Brynn wants nothing to do with love seeing as her own parents aren't in love anymore, it’s all just magic that doesn’t exist so why bother?
vilandra's review against another edition
5.0
This is a book that can appeal to readers of all ages - especially to anyone who has ever given up on love. The well-crafted characters and the book’s imagery remind us of being almost-adults, navigating the minefield of friendships and dating. Instead of more of the same old, with this tale we get a story with a moral, a lesson we learn with the characters. The supernatural aspect of the story is subtly woven in to it, rather than hitting us over the head with it or using it as a crutch. I really enjoyed this book, and the memories and emotions it conjured.
haleighmw's review
5.0
Never Say Never was the perfect YA read. It fits well into the contemporary genre but brings a unique voice and ideas to the table. Aphrodite inserting herself into a group of teens is such a fun idea and the drama that ensues is just perfect. Brynn is a sympathetic character and you really feel for her when her parents can’t seem to act like adults throughout the beginning of the book. And the love interest? He’s everything you could want in a sweet and swoony YA friend to lovers book. Definitely recommend this one!
energyrae's review
4.0
What’s a girl to do when she has no interest in love? Whatever she wants, because Brynn is a badass young woman who’s assertive and happy with herself. But her home life isn’t going so great. It doesn’t help that her parents put her in the middle of their arguments. Her thoughts on love solidify after finding her mother in bed with someone other than her father.
Even though she is closer to her father, both her parents are toxic. The minute they started using her as a go-between, I wanted to hurry her right out of there. I imagine that level of emotional trauma would have long-term effects on her. Manzano added a touch of mythology to this YA contemporary read, bringing the storyline to a new level. Overall, the mixed genres with the fun storyline make this a read you don’t want to put down. Nicely done. Thank you, Sword and Silk Books, for sending this along.
Even though she is closer to her father, both her parents are toxic. The minute they started using her as a go-between, I wanted to hurry her right out of there. I imagine that level of emotional trauma would have long-term effects on her. Manzano added a touch of mythology to this YA contemporary read, bringing the storyline to a new level. Overall, the mixed genres with the fun storyline make this a read you don’t want to put down. Nicely done. Thank you, Sword and Silk Books, for sending this along.
nerdypotsie's review against another edition
3.0
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read an eArc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
CW//
I wanted so badly to love this book. A contemporary romance with Aphrodite getting in there and causing drama? That sounded like it was right up my alley. Unfortunately though, this book was just a mediocre book for me. It wasn’t awful but it wasn’t amazing either.
Let’s start off with the good parts about this book: the pacing was really quick and it made for a fast read. I’ve been super picky about book pacing recently, but this one pleased me with how it was bouncy and quirky despite not having too much heavy action. I also really liked Gabe and Adam. They were great characters and while I wasn’t a huge fan of every step of their romantic journey, I did enjoy how they seemed genuinely wholesome and wonderful.
That being said, this book was messy. It was cheesy and predictable, but the cheating made this book difficult to enjoy. It seemed like everyone was cheating on everyone. Sure, some of them didn’t act on it until they were done with their relationships, but it was a massive web of “this guy is dating this girl but he’s in love with someone else,” “this girl’s boyfriend clearly has feelings for someone else,” etc. I knew there would be some cheating in this book based off of the book’s synopsis, but there was just too much of it in this book and a lot of the stuff involving the cheating seemed like petty drama.
I started to connect with the book and enjoy it more around the climax of the story, but the ending dragged on and was so cheesy that I was rolling my eyes at every sentence.
There’s also some questionable age gaps in this book. Technically they weren’t explicitly illegal, but college students dating high school seniors… It gives me massive grooming vibes and I’m not here for it.
At the end of the day, it feels like this book just wasn’t for me. I didn’t completely hate it, but I know that other people would’ve enjoyed this one more than me and I hope this book finds an audience of people who love it more than I do.
CW//
Spoiler
cheating, pukingI wanted so badly to love this book. A contemporary romance with Aphrodite getting in there and causing drama? That sounded like it was right up my alley. Unfortunately though, this book was just a mediocre book for me. It wasn’t awful but it wasn’t amazing either.
Let’s start off with the good parts about this book: the pacing was really quick and it made for a fast read. I’ve been super picky about book pacing recently, but this one pleased me with how it was bouncy and quirky despite not having too much heavy action. I also really liked Gabe and Adam. They were great characters and while I wasn’t a huge fan of every step of their romantic journey, I did enjoy how they seemed genuinely wholesome and wonderful.
That being said, this book was messy. It was cheesy and predictable, but the cheating made this book difficult to enjoy. It seemed like everyone was cheating on everyone. Sure, some of them didn’t act on it until they were done with their relationships, but it was a massive web of “this guy is dating this girl but he’s in love with someone else,” “this girl’s boyfriend clearly has feelings for someone else,” etc. I knew there would be some cheating in this book based off of the book’s synopsis, but there was just too much of it in this book and a lot of the stuff involving the cheating seemed like petty drama.
I started to connect with the book and enjoy it more around the climax of the story, but the ending dragged on and was so cheesy that I was rolling my eyes at every sentence.
There’s also some questionable age gaps in this book. Technically they weren’t explicitly illegal, but college students dating high school seniors… It gives me massive grooming vibes and I’m not here for it.
At the end of the day, it feels like this book just wasn’t for me. I didn’t completely hate it, but I know that other people would’ve enjoyed this one more than me and I hope this book finds an audience of people who love it more than I do.