Almost

by Anne Eliot

At a freshman party she doesn't remember, Jess Jordan was almost raped. Almost. Very nearly. Not quite.

Three years later, Jess has managed to make everyone believe she's better. Over it. Because she is. Almost. Very nearly. Not quite.

Unfortunately, until Jess proves she's back to normal activities, her parents won't discuss college. So, she lands a summer internship and strikes a deal with hockey jock, Gray He gets $8,000. She gets a fake boyfriend and a social life.

Jess has no idea Gray signed on for reasons other than money. She also never expects to fall in love. But Gray’s amazingly hot, holds her hand all the time, and makes her forget that he’s simply doing his job. It’s like having a real boyfriend. Almost. Very nearly. Not quite.

Gray Porter is hiding secrets of his own. About Jess Jordan. About why he’s driven to protect her, why he won't cash her checks, or deny her anything she asks.

Genres: Young Adult, Romance, Contemporary, New Adult, High School, Contemporary Romance, Abuse

367 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2012

About the author

Anne Eliot lives in the high mountains of Colorado and loves to shovel snow.

While growing up, Anne hid her own anxieties by hiding and reading book after book. She developed an addiction libraries, to first love, first kisses and her favorite: the happy-ever-after story. This is what she writes today. Now she's a mom of two, and happily married to her own first love.

Anne Eliot’s first YA book, Almost, became a top 100 best selling Kindle book, and was a Readers Choice, Top 12 of 2012 book for Amazon.com at #11, and her other books, Unmaking Hunter Kennedy, How I Fall/How I Fly, and now the Runaway Rockstar Series have all been teen, top 100 bestselling books. She loves to hear from readers. Please look for her on Facebook or tweet her @yaromance.

Representation: Anne Eliot’s foreign translations are represented by Jane Dystel of Dystel, Goderich & Bourret Literary management, NYC.

Reviews

[Blacky *Romance Addict* · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Number one: Make at least two friends your own age.
Number two: Go places besides your room.
Number three: Get boyfriend.
Number four: Make sure Mom and Dad notice numbers one through three."




How to show the world you've healed?
Why, fake it, of course.



The story




Three years ago, Jess was almost raped. She has no memory of what happened but she does have nightmares and well, very serious problems that she couldn't resolve even with a therapist.
All she wants is a chance to have a normal life, to go to college and be a normal girl, but how to convince her parents that she is getting better?
Fake it all!
So Jess makes a plan by persuading Gray Porter to pretend he's her boyfriend XD
Though there's one thing that she didn't expect...
Both of them went from pretending to real <3



Jess




She knows she's messed up, but years of counseling hasn't done her any good, and that's why Jess makes a crazy plan to have a fake boyfriend and a fake social life, to fool her parents into thinking she is finally better.
Little did she know that she'll actually fall for her fake boyfriend XD

"Even though it's totally fake, every second with that black haired, green-eyed boy is better than anything I've ever known. You must understand a little why I don't want to let it go. For me, this is all I'll ever get to have."

I liked Jess, she is really funny though she doesn't know it, and how she hides behind the b*tch persona... Awesome :D
She is basically clueless when it comes to normal teen life, and watching her let go and have fun with Gray and his "gang" was lovely :)
And honestly, I can't blame her for falling for Gray, he is pretty much perfect <3



Gray




Three years ago, something happened that changed Gray's life forever.
Now he has to stay away from Jess, but that's not really possible after she makes him be her pretend boyfriend :D
He's had a crush on her for ages, and now he has to pretend he doesn't feel anything for her while he's with her, and pretend he's head over heels for her in public XD

"I'll do everything in my power to not let her fall. If she does, then I'm going with her. All the way."

Gray is just the sweetest guy <3
He feels guilty through most of the book, but I loved him more for it.
But like the pic says, he is an uber-cute romantic guy <3
Totally perfect for Jess, and exactly what she needed.
I loved every chapter in his POV, every scene with him <3
He is just perfect :)





Overall

First, you have to know this is written in present tense, and I HATE reading in present tense :(
BUT!
It wasn't that irritating once I've read a lot of it, and honestly, the story was so great that I didn't mind it so much.
The writing is really great and humorous, the dialogue fantastic!
I think their convos are one of my favs ever :)
This isn't really angsty, but at times it's sad, and at other times absolutely wonderful and swoony and amazing <3
Gray is total perfection and I rec this book cause people, you need to read him <3

[♥Rachel♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story took my breath away. My heart just melts to bits thinking about it.

Jess Jordan is a senior who was almost raped three years ago. When she was fourteen! Since then she's basically been a mess. She suffers from Rape Related PTSD and tries to avoid getting close to anyone. At school she's worked hard to develop the reputation of being a strange, cold, ice-queen so that everyone will leave her alone. That way she doesn't have to answer questions about her odd sleeping habits. She has to nap throughout the day because she can't sleep at night. That's when the nightmares come. Unfortunately, Jess has to change, and become more "normal" if she wants to get away from the constant helicopter-parenting and go to college. She's even got a list: Jess Jordan's How to be Normal Checklist. Two of the top things on that list are: 1. Getting an Internship at Geekstuff.com, her dream job; and 2. Getting a Boyfriend. It looks like Jess is on the way to accomplishing the first part of the list, getting the internship; until she finds out she's not the only one who's made it to round two of interviews. Gray Porter, popular, confident, gorgeous, and fellow student, has also been called back. Jess suddenly has an idea that kills two birds with one stone: Share the internship with Gray, and give him all the money, as long as he agrees to be her boyfriend for the summer. How to Be Normal Checklist: Done and done! What Jess doesn't realize is that Gray has his own reasons for accepting her crazy plan.

To see all that Jess goes through on a daily basis just to keep it together is heartbreaking. The fact that she was almost raped, almost makes it worse, because she doesn't feel the right to still be so messed up. Trust me, when you hear the details, almost, does count. This event had such an impact on several lives, which is elaborated on as the story unfolds. Even with the serious topic, this story is very funny and swoon-worthy. Some of Jess' social awkwardness had me cracking up, and you can't help but love this clueless girl. The list of texting abbreviations she gets, and uses, from her younger sister makes for some hilarious moments of confusion. The romance in the story just melts your heart. Gray is such a knight-in-shining armor, and his "stunning, crystal-green eyes," don't hurt either! This might be a little spoilery, so skip over if you don't want to know, but here's a little teaser quote for you:

I let go of her hands so I can pull her closer. Her arms go around my neck and she's coiled her fingers into the back of my hair. The soft trembling feel of her lips sends lightning down my spine. And I soar, fly, and die of happiness all in the same second.

Oh this boy *sigh* just kills me!! I completely loved this story! There's depth, sadness, humor, and romance in all the right amounts. I couldn't wipe the smile from my face once I finished this.

[Melissa Baez · Rating 2 out of 5]

I almost liked this.
I almost enjoyed Jess Jordan.
Her sister, Kiki, was almost endearing.
Grey and Jess' inner ramblings were almost delightful.
The leads almost communicated.
These characters were almost relatable.
Grey almost sounded like a guy.
Jess' idiocy was almost understandable.
The writing was almost readable.
The exclamation points almost had me going up the walls.
Rape was almost handled well.
And I almost DNF'd it.
...Almost. Very nearly. Not quite.

So I remember mentioning once this thing I have where I rarely, if ever, remember author's names(not just their names, everyone's). I don't know why but I am terrible with names. I'll probably remember a name that is frequently mentioned or an author who's books I've loved. Or greatly despised.
So why is this relevant?
Well, after I bought Almost, I found out this is the same author of Unmaking of Hunter Kennedy, a book that still to this day gets a aggravated sigh and eye roll every time it's mentioned. It's not that I automatically write authors off if I hated their first book, I'm just extremely cautious when picking up another one. So while I didn't hate this as much as UHK, I didn't enjoy it as much as I'd hope for. Not that I hoped for a lot either.

You see, the only thing that ever really rang true was the dedications page. That felt heartfelt and held meaning.
Everything else? Not so much.

I think if you're going to write a book that handles rape or attempted rape, you might not want to promote rape culture. But that's just me and my thoughts. Personally I couldn't stomach her parents, the coach, or the therapist. These were people who's actions constantly went in favor of victim blaming. I mean what father says "I hope she learned her lesson" when he finds out his daughter had been drugged and almost rapped. What mother doesn't demand to prosecute this man for what he did to her daughter.

Clothes DOES NOT cause rape.
Underage drinking DOES NOT cause rape
Flirting DOES NOT cause rape.
RAPISTS CAUSE RAPE!
And it is never the victim's fault.

It's not that I hated the romance but, honestly? Why did she have to meet a guy to be able to survive? Why did a guy have to solve her problems? Why did a guy have to come in and save the day? Why?

[Joy (joyous reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once in a while, an unassuming book comes my way which simply makes me catch my breath. Its characters told the perfect stories, said all the right things, looked exactly how I liked them to look, did the things I expected them to do...in short, it hit all the right spots in an almost too perfect way. Almost is that book.

This is a story about a girl who's been living in a nightmare for the last three years. She has a perfect family who supports her, understands her, cares for her. But no amount of loving could stop the nightmares she endures every night. Reliving the rape that almost happened to her when she was a freshman makes her avoid sleeping at night every chance she gets. Her parents are convinced that the only way she could move on to college is that if she can prove to them that she's now somehow healed and back to being 'normal'. And what is normal anyway? Having friends? summer job? a boyfriend? An opportunity presents itself when Gray Porter, jock extraordinaire, serial heartbreaker, agreed to be her fake boyfriend for the summer. How far will this farce go? Well...perhaps not too far. Maybe only as far as Gray's secrets could take him.

Anne Eliot managed to tell this painful story in the most light-hearted way possible. The characters' funny and more often awkward encounters perfectly camouflaged their murky and shady connection that only one of them has a full awareness of. I love, love, love these two characters. Their dynamics worked so well while they hid their true feelings behind their sarcasm and humour. Gray is the ultimate heartthrob who won me over with his dimpled smile, kindness and social ineptness around Jess. Aside from Melina Marchetta's characters, I don't think I've ever fallen so hard for a cast as I have with everyone here. There have been so many YA books written where the absence of any kind of family relationships was noticeable but not here. I love Jess' supporting and ever-present parents and her younger sister who molly-coddled her at every turn. Gray's Gran and his two best friends is an unbreakable circle and pillar of support for this tormented, guilty boy who only ever wanted to do the right thing to begin with.

I can never pretend to understand what people like Jess has gone through in one way or another. I like that Anne Eliot skims the surface of Jess' suffering just so. It wasn't overwrought but it was touching just the same. The key to Jess' recovery was through remembering - facing the demons that her subconscious' defence mechanism hid from her. To some, it may seem like a convenient resolution but I disagree. Sometimes, no amount of therapy or drugs can help a person. Sometimes, it's only as simple as remembering.

This book is one of those rare ones that clicked in every possible way. The characters, dialogues, their banters. It's one of those books that though not written perfectly, the story is just too good to distract you from some minute mistakes.

Thank you, Rachel for the recc!

[Tessamari ♥Many Waters...♥ ~ Sweet Spot Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

FIVE MASSIVE Stars!!

Member: BBB. Boys in Books are Better

I'm so in love with Gray Porter. Let me repeat. This is me shouting it out because I cannot stress this enough: I'm in Love. Seriously. In LOVE with Gray Porter!. Gray has got to be the sweetest, cutest, most unselfish, most honorable book boyfriend ever. And for me to say that, is a huge deal.

I'm sooooooo unbelievably happy right now. I'm so happy that I chose to read this amazing story. Seriously amazing. Its told in a two person perspective, Jess & Gray. Jess is fighter. During her freshman year, she was almost raped by a senior hockey player, until someone stopped him. Enter Gray Porter. Gray was just a scrawny freshman hockey player taking on the senior when he stopped the almost incident. He did everything he could to help Jess. He quit the Varsity team for her, and was ready to testify on her behalf. So unbelievably honorable Mr. Porter was. Unfortunately, Jess' parents, along with the coach believed nothing good could come out of prosecuting since Jess couldn't remember anything.

Flash forward to the end of Junior year. Jess & Gray are competing one another for a summer internship. The payoff $8000 for the summer. Both could seriously benefit from this internship: Jess can get a letter of recommendation for college & normalcy points from her parents and Gray gets much needed money for college. Jess, however, needs to convince her parents that she's over her traumatic past and that she's coping with her PTSD. She convinces herself that getting a boyfriend would definitely prove to her parents that she's normal and ready for college. Convinced that the other will get the internship, Jess & Gray enter into a contract of sorts. They managed to convince the company to take both of them for the job, but only paying one intern (Gray). In return, Gray will pretend to be Jess' boyfriend for the summer. Gray has always harbored feelings for Jess and agrees to this arrangement. However, their pretend relationship leads to more. Both are torn with their feelings for one another. Is it all just pretend or is it more? Will Jess' nightmares from that horrible night ever stop? Will she remember Gray's involvement? Ahhhh, the turmoil. Loved it.

Jess' character was pretty frustrating at times, but for the most part was real and honest. She was going through some major issues. Gray was just an absolutely perfect hero. He was so unbelievably sweet and patient with Jess. And that letter he wrote her? OMG! I could read that 50 million times and it would still have me swooning. It reminded me so much of Jane Austen's letter in Persuasion, which I find kinda funny considering the author's name is Anne Eliot. Get it? Anne Elliot? Persuasion people! LOL.

Loved everything about this story. The references to Austen, Twilight, Hunger Games, Star Wars, their text messages...everything. Oh and trying to decipher those texts had me cracking up. Seriously, I freaking loved, LOVED this book. It was so adorkable. I can seriously go on and on about it. HIGHLY, HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend. :)

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[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

'ALMOST............

"There are no 'almost raped' support groups or 'almost better' from 'almost being raped' websites. No blogs, twitter feeds, and no 'almost-crazy-but-not-quite' Facebook Support Groups"

"Almost. Almost.

How I hate that word and the way it defines me.

Almost raped.

Almost over it.

Almost normal.

I can almost forget. Way worse, I can almost remember."

One night at a freshman party Jess Jordan was drugged, tied to a bed and almost raped. Three years on, many hours of therapy and she has almost convinced everyone else that she is okay........well almost.

Unfortunately, until Jess can prove to her parents that she's back to being a 'normal teenager', her parents won't even begin to discuss college applications. So, in order to convince her parents that she is 'back to normal' she gets herself a summer internship and does a deal with fellow pupil Gray Porter. He gets $8,000. She gets a fake boyfriend and a social life, and a shot at convincing her parents that she can handle college.

But Gray is hiding a secret. A secret that could destroy Jess and any progress she has made...... Well almost



I've had this book sitting on my TBR pile for a very long time. I'd heard great things about it and read the blurb over and over again. So many times I almost picked it up but didn't. To be honest I was just unsure wether this was a subject I was ready or willing to read about on paper. I almost didn't bother, I almost wasn't brave enough, but then for whatever reason I decided to give it a go and I am so glad I took this leap because I almost missed out on an exceptionally sweet, and at times raw, YA love story about two mixed up teenagers falling in love.

I loved so many things about this story, I loved the alternating POV's of Jess and Gray, this allowed me real insight into each characters thoughts and evolving feelings. I also loved how the author was able to bring out so many of my emotions. Yes at times it was a very difficult read for me, but at other times I was grinning like I was a teenager in love myself. Granted there were parts of the story I struggled with, I did not always agree with the actions of some of the supporting characters, and some bits for me were very raw, but overall what amazed me about this book is how the author took a very difficult and hard to read subject matter and turned it into a story of hope, forgiveness and new beginnings, and most importantly a story about 'healing'.




Thanks Rachel for recommending this book to me, I know it took me forever to actually pick it up but I got there in the end. x

[Raj · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 *mehhhhhhhhh* Stars


I'm back refreshed more than ever. And instead of hitting the new books I decided that I wanted to go into the ones that have been sitting in my shelf for ever. I picked it randomly cause you know..



And if you think about it, what would the success rate be from a random choice? Well I'll tell you what, pretty low!
Cause again you know that...



I was so board out of my mind in this book that I found new talents I didn't know I even had. Like how I can actually see the FUTURE! OMG! What a talent! I am the next Raven! This book was so predictable I thought that I might've written it in another world. This book was nothing new to me. Everything that happened I've watched in TV or read in a different book. I wanted a POW WOW! but instead I got a


anyways I'm the type of person who either likes it or not, no beating around the bushes. Unfortunately, and I say this with my deepest regards, I DIDN'T LIKE IT.

*sigh*

Now if you'll excuse me I'm gonna go and catch up with all of you.

[Smitten's Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Almost. Almost.
How I hate that word and the way it defines me.
Almost raped. Almost over it. Almost normal.
I can almost forget. Way worse, I can almost remember.

This is soooooo true, in this case...
The cover of this book did absolutely nothing for me, but a few people had mentioned that I should really give this book a chance, so I did.

And it was soooo good! A fabulous, heart warming, page-turning YA romance. I read it in one sitting and couldn't put it down.

Jess Jordan was almost raped. Three years ago. And she's not okay. She has night terrors, she's suffering from PTSD, she doesn't socialise and she's completely forgotten how to be normal.

Lucky. Lucky. Lucky girl.
Nothing happened.
Nothing happened.

But her parents won't entertain the idea of her going off to college, until she can prove that she's normal. That she's making 'progress'. So, her little sister writes her a list. 'How To Be Normal'
On the list; Get a boyfriend.
Enter Gray Porter.

Person slaughtered: Me.
Method used: Dimple.
The guy has a dimple. Of course he does. To match the Hollywood chin divot. To make the lump on my forehead pound even harder.
Pointes for Gray Porter: 3,000,000-bajallion, trillion to the millionth power.

When Jess and Gray both apply for the same internship, rather than go head to head for the one spot they both desperately need to secure their future at college, they come with a plan to benefit them both. And Gray becomes Jess's one way ticket to 'normal' for the duration of the summer. Her pretend boyfriend.

I'm living in fiction. It's perfectly okay to be in love with any and all fictional boyfriends, even if they aren't yours.

But they're both harbouring huge secrets and furthermore, neither them are all that stoked about the 'pretend' part of the arrangement. So, can they overcome their pasts, secrets and their uber crushes? Can Jess ever be 'normal' and will Gray ever manage to banish the guilt?

If only Gray Porter had never wandered into my dreams.
Including the good, waking ones.

I really liked Jess. Despite her trauma, her demons and all of the crazy, she was a great heroine. She was ballsy, stubborn, a total bitch at first and I really really liked her. Lol. It was clear that she was going to soften and I loved watching her berate herself for helplessly swooning over gorgeous Gray.

"He's so good at his job, that I've fallen for him, the mirage of him being my boyfriend, all of it. Like everyone else. Like an idiot."

And Gray. Awwwwww! SO adorable. I'm a big fan of these contract/arrangement storyline, where an agreement is reached and then both characters find themselves wrestling with real feelings, pushing boundaries and falling in love. And Gray was a perfect example of this. The scene at the skating rink. Super cute! Major butterflies.

"I love it. I mean - it's great. You - how beautiful you look. It threw me off. And you have no idea how much I love peach pie, a-la-mode. Sorry... sue me, dock my pay, but damn, girl. You've turned me into a stuttering fool."

I loved how he was so protective over Jess. He feels he owes her, so he wants to give her the world on a silver platter. And it's swoon-worthy. His 'I won't let anyone laugh at you/hurt you/bully you.' attitude melted my heart from the very beginning. And this was another lovely, fluffy 'good guys win out' story.

Amongst all of the cutesy, rainbows, ponies and kittens... this book deals with a very serious issue, obviously. The scene where Jess remembers her almost rape had my heart hammering in my chest. Jeez. How traumatic. I like the underlying message in the book aswell. So many books kind of skirt around the issues of underage drinking, the bad decisions we make as teenagers, sneaking off to parties, etc. But these are things so many of us have done, and so many teens are still doing, and the dangers are so very real. Things like this happen every year and even if they are the consequences of bad decisions, the results are certainly never the fault of the victim. Throughout the book, Jess has trouble letting go of the blame she places upon herself for sneaking out to a party and getting herself drunk.

I took two messages from this. The first was the warning against underage drinking, college parties, taking drinks from people you don't know, putting yourself in dangerous situations, etc. which I hope serves as a warning for younger readers.
But the second was that even if a young girl has gotten herself into such a situation, made poor choices and broken all of the groundrules, nobody brings rape, almost rape, harassment or any other kind of unwanted attention upon themselves. The blame lies only on the shoulders of the attacker.



The heavy stuff all said and done, this is a fabulous book. I would highly recommend it. It reminded me a little of Bully, which I know has been very popular of late. I can't put my finger on why, but I feel that people who liked Bully would most definitely enjoy Almost. This book is not steamy, but it is a great first love/first kiss, very sweet, yet very gripping, clean YA romance. And I'd really love to see this book get some more recognition.

"I'll make sure you forget every guy but me, Jess Jordan. And that's a promise I mean to keep."
Oh, that voice.

Almost Statistics
Steam Rating (out of 5): ♥
Ending: HEA
Series: ✗
Can this be read as a standalone? Yes
Themes:
Attempted rape
PTSD
Contract/arrangement
YA
First love
Warning. This book includes...
Attempted rape scene
PTSD
Writing: Great

UK AMAZON: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Almost-ebook/...
US AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Almost-ebook/dp...

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[J. Sterling]

Don't let the cover deter you from getting this book- also, the book description, to put it mildly, doesn't do the heart of the book any justice. What I mean is- it's REALLY freaking good. :)

This book was an emotional read at times. I felt like it was a very honest, easy to read (the dialogue flowed... the character interactions felt natural... the characters were easy to relate to), wonderfully touching book. A very sensitive and difficult topic that I think was written extremely well and extremely honestly. I will admit that there were times when I was DYING for Gray to hurry up and tell her his role in things already- I wanted that out and it felt like I had to wait forever for it to come, but other than that- I find it hard to find any true "faults" with this book. Very touching story. Tear inducing for REAL reasons- not made up, bullshit, fairy tale ones. It's a beautifully written book.

Anne Eliot- GREAT JOB. And also, can I please just be thankful that this was the first book in what feels like forever wasn't a series... I was really happy to read something that didn't end with a cliffhanger. :)

[Anne Eliot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Almost, by Anne Eliot --

February 2012 is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Please share free link if you think it will help someone.



This book is available 'free' to check out on Amazon.com if you are an Amazon Prime member and participate in the amazing Kindle Lending program. Thanks to everyone who has bought this book, downloaded it, or shared their personal stories and reviews after reading it. You humble me with your stories, and the time you've given to this book.

For those of you who have contacted me from school libraries, counselor offices, and other teen groups who needed a print version, we are working hard and the print version should be available by March. Please leave your contact information to me in a direct message if you would like me to let you know when it is out.

xo and thanks, AnnieAlmost

[ily · Rating 1 out of 5]

Adiviné todo con sólo leer el primer capítulo.

Hace ya un largo rato que no leo un buen romance young adult, así que cuando descubrí este libro es la lista de favoritos de uno de mis amigos de goodreads, pensé que después de terminar una trilogía distópica podría leer algo ligero y entretenido. Me equivoqué.

Almost es la típica historia que involucra a una chica sexualmente abusada -o casi abusada- que cree no poder enamorarse, hasta que conoce a un bombón del instituto que trae locas a todas las otras chicas y, por supuesto, ella se enamora.




Pero como es de esperarse, nuestro protagonista oculta secretos (*suspira dramáticamente*) que involucran al objeto de su deseo, y que ponen el riesgo su relación con éste.




¿Por qué tienen que empezar una relación a base de mentiras?

¿Qué clase de padres te exigen un novio para demostrar tu buena salud mental? ¿Es que acaso una chica que esté en una relación significa una chica normal?, ¿o es que tus padres te verán como un bicho raro, un fenómeno si no tienes novio?


Lo que más me enoja de todo el libro es el estereotipo de víctima débil y traumatizada. Jess es insegura y vulnerable, y se empeña en hacerle creer a sus padres que está bien, cuando es obvio que no ha superado el trauma de ser casi violada. Todos los libros de este tipo pintan a la víctima como la persona más frágil. Sé que no es nada fácil sobreponerse a una situación de esa magnitud, pero estoy cansada de que todos los autores muestren a las protagonistas femeninas como débiles y dependientes que, hay que agregar, se curan al enamorarse. Ella siempre comienzan negando toda posibilidad del amor en sus vidas, pero siempre el destino les prueba lo contrario. Nos quieren hacer creer que el amor lo puede todo, que un chico con deliciosos abdominales y una actitud de follo-todo-lo-que-se-mueve puede hacer que una mujer olvide el maltrato que hay en su vida. Pero yo quiero leer sobre mujeres fuertes e independientes, no sobre adolescentes que esperan a ser salvadas. Esta clase de libros solo sirven cuando eres inocente y no conoces buenos libros, pero después se convierten en pérdida de tiempo.


Además de ser repetitivo y caer en tópicos, Almost no aporta nada nuevo ni original; es bastante mediocre. Un libro cubierto de clichés, que resulta en una lectura aburrida y poco memorable. Me alegro de haberlo abandonado.

PD: Si conocen de algún libro que tenga una protagonista decente, por favor díganme el nombre, porque estoy cansada de las hermanitas de Bella Swan.

[DKristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful heart breaking and heart warming read and I just saw this on Anne Eliot's fb page:

~6/21/13~
June is PTSD awareness month so I'm offering Almost, by Anne Eliot (that's me) on sale for the first time ever this week--.99! Jess Jordan, the character in this book, is working through rape-related PTSD.

It's a love story and it's about hope. Whatever a person has to carry because of their pasts--they can still fall in love and be okay anyway.

Thanks for all the shares and support on this book. I know most of you have it, but just in case!

Also, please take the time to check out MenCanStopRape.org and talk to your boys, brothers, cousins and ask them please to promise to make a stand. More information on how men and boys can and want to partner on ending dating violence is on this awesome website. They are Men Can Stop Rape
and they and other groups like these are amazing. #Ptsd Support and Global Awareness Ptsd
http://amzn.com/B0075CHVDA

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, this book was gorgeous! A beautifully written, emotional story of first love in difficult circumstances. It’s not all hearts and flowers - in fact, the story takes you to some very dark places. But it also made me laugh, had me flat out swooning, and left me in a massive puddle of goo on the floor, grinning like an idiot.

Almost. Almost
How I hate that word and the way it defines me. Almost raped. Almost over it. Almost normal.
I can almost forget. Way worse, I can almost remember.

Jess is 17 years old, and horribly traumatised after almost being raped 3 years ago. And even though she can’t really remember what happened, she is haunted by nightmares, suffering from PTSD and trying desperately to find normal. Enter Gray Porter. Gorgeous, popular, funny and sweet, Gray agrees to help Jess out by pretending to be her boyfriend for the summer, thereby convincing her parents that she is ‘normal’ enough to move on with her life and go to College. Their fake relationship starts of brilliantly, with both of them playing their parts, but it all becomes complicated when feelings become involved, and the secrets from Jess and Gray’s pasts are revealed.

OMG, I loved Jess! She's so broken by what has happened to her, but she's also an incredibly strong character. She’s no-nonsense about what’s going on with her, she doesn't mope, she just carries on, dealing however she can.

I've made a ton of progress with faking it, that's for sure. And so far, so good. No, I'm not 'better'. I'm the same; but none of my pretending seems to make me worse. So it's kind of working.

Gray is just teen perfection, and absolute proof that Jess’s bumper sticker is spot on – Member: BBB. Boys in Books are Better (right on!). He is 100%, absolutely there for Jess; protective, supportive and understanding, he is also really funny, and works hard to make her happy, and put a smile on her face – he even speaks like Mr Darcy because he knows she loves it :) The story is told in dual POVs, so we know Gray’s thoughts, his motivations behind why he agrees to the deal, and his true feelings towards Jess. We also get to watch his struggle between his overwhelming feelings for her, and his desire to tell her the big secret he is harbouring, even if it crushes everything he has fought so hard for.

The story of Jess’s assault comes out slowly. We see bits and pieces through her nightmares until the whole story comes out. What I loved about this book was that we got to see not only what Jess went through, but also the impact it had on the others that were involved in the events of that fateful night, and its fallout. Jess obviously suffers terribly from what happened to her, but the guilt that she feels over what her family go through on her behalf, and her need to be ok for them, was just heart breaking.

But lightening this, the relationship between Jess and Gray was so, so beautiful. It started slowly, with lots of bantering and hilariously flirty emails, and then there were lots of tender moments between them (flashback to nights spent at the skating rink and couples skating… *sigh*). Knowing what Jess had gone through, and watching her fight to overcome her fears so that she could be with Gray, I just wanted to cheer for her! It was impossible not to get swept away at the wonder and intensity of first love. And their first kiss was like a fairytale – it’s been quoted a number of times in other reviews, but I just couldn’t resist putting it in again…

I let go of her hands so I can pull her closer. Her arms go around my neck and she’s coiled her fingers into the back of my hair. The soft trembling feel of her lips sends lightning down my spine. And I soar, fly, and die of happiness all in the same second.

SWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!

Adding some humour to the story are Gray’s friends Corey and Michelle, and Jess’s sister Kika. Between them, and Jess and Gray’s banter, there is plenty of light and funny to counteract the seriousness of the subject matter.

I loved this book and read it in a day, unable to put it down. A must read!

4.5 stars

[Jacqueline's Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars

I didn't want to judge a book by it's cover, (I've been doing that a lot), so when I read the summary to Almost I was very interested and put the ugly cover in the back of mind.

Jess was almost raped at 14 years old, because of that, she has nightmares, but she doesn't really understand them. Her nightmares has put her in therapy for the past three years, her parents don't want her to go to college until she seems "normal". Jess pays Gray $8K to pretend to be her boyfriend so Jess' parents think she is normal.

I loved the summary, I liked the idea of Gray being paid to pretend to be Jess' boyfriend, because of course they will start to fall for each other and who doesn't want to read that?! The beginning of Almost was very promising, Jess off the bat was introduced and her story line is reveled. I am a big fan when authors from the start tell you everything, because I am interested in Jess and Gray's involvement. I don't really care to find out what happened and within the first few chapters, Anne Eliot tells us everything, which is great.

Towards the middle, things start to slow down for me and I get really annoyed. I felt like there wasn't enough dialogue between Jess' and Gray. I felt like Jess' and Gray's feelings were expressed way too much. There's only so many ways Gray can express his guilt and so many ways Jess can say she's crazy.

I'll admit, I started to skim until I reached the dialogue or interesting parts and let's just say it was starting to look slim. Almost was starting to get monotonousness. I kind of wished the story was told during the school year, instead of a summer break, I felt like Jess and Gray should have been older if the setting was kind of fixed around a working environment.

I didn't really see any chemistry between Jess and Gray, there was enough banter and I love banter, but when the banter never stopped, I got really tired of it. I never really saw shift between Jess and Gray, they seemed to be on constant tension.

I really wanted to like Almost, especially since the beginning had so much potential and I loved the title, but with no chemistry and dry writing, it just didn't work for me.

MOre reviews here - > http://jacquelinesreads.blogspot.com/

[Janina · Rating 1 out of 5]

Okay. A few quick reason why I didn't like this, but bear in mind that I only read the first few chapters, then skimmed ahead and read the second half of the book.

- The over-use of italics at the beginning almost drove me nuts.

- I was bored after the first few chapters and decided to skip ahead.

- Didn't really connect with the characters and some aspects just didn't quite fit. For example: The heroine doesn't sleep at night because of the nightmares that plague her, but tries to squeeze in a few naps during the day. Yet, she also has nightmares then. The point, I ask?

- Simply too much dramarama, declarions of hate then love, making easy things hard for my taste.

- The whole thing with her crush and later boyfriend witnessing the attempt rape and rescueing her but not telling her about it (because he promised her parents, of all things) just did not sit well with me. At all. Why should keeping her in the dark (she couldn't remember the night) actually help her? And that was also the reason for not prosecuting her assailant? Sorry, but I really don't get it. There was a witness after all!

[Kika MacFarlane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the AMAZING LOVE STORY in this book--it made me laugh and cry and cheer and hold my breath.

Gray Porter is amazing, and sweet and nice. And Jess...strong, sad, and very brave. Even though something terrible had happened to Jess years ago--this book is not really about that, it's about her growing up and falling in love. I liked how Jess created her life and kept on living--dealt with things--made her own rules and kept herself 'okay'.

Okay, that is until she fell in love and had to trust someone else to be her friend and believe they could love her back.

I know a lot of kids my age (14/15) that do the same--they hide things behind a straight face. Everyone seems to be hiding something, and sometimes when a person is quiet, or you think they are stuck up, or mean or obnoxious--they actually have something else--something HUGE--going on.

This book, even though it didn't have vampires or wars or extreme stuff going on like what I usually read, it felt very real, and it gripped me until the end. It's been a long time since I've been able to read a book about just a real girl, with parents who are actually still married (wow) and the heroine is not at a special 'spy boarding school' or an orphan. This girl was like me an my friends in so many ways. Her superpowers were normal and her heart was broken, and she thought she was broken too. And Gray Porter held her hand and loved her anyway. Jess realized she was okay and could love herself as is with all the bad things attached.
And so, I love this book for that. It makes me really want to go talk to some girls that never say much, that I assume are just kind of stuck up. You'll see...read it and you'll fall in love, and you'll be curious about people you know. And did I say you will MAJOR fall in love. Gray Porter...sigh.

Jess and Gray were fated to be together...it just took three extra years. I liked that idea too. (Kiwi at yaromance.com)

[Anne OK · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

The book blurb for young adults does an amazing job describing the storyline for “Almost.” I’m only going to visit the high points for me. Even though this book deals with the horrific issue of rape (or, in this case, Jess was the victim of an “almost, very nearly, not quite rape”), there is much to smile about within its pages as well. The story is told from both the lead male’s POV and the lead female’s POV – a favorite writing style for me.

Since the “almost” rape her freshman year, Jess has become withdrawn and anti-social. She suffers from mental trauma and is haunted by nightmares. Jess is intelligent, pretty and from a wealthy family – everything a teenage girl could want. Yet she can’t sleep at night so at light of day, she slips away in her Jeep to find a spot to hide and sleep. The summer before her senior year, her parents issue an ultimatum that Jess must prove she can handle normal day-to-day activities again or she won’t be allowed to attend college. And so her journey back to normal (almost) begins.

With the help of Gray Porter, a boy from her school who shares a summer job with Jess, they enter into a “contract” where he will pretend to be her boyfriend for the summer. Unbeknownst to Jess, Gray is withholding secrets of his own. Gray is willing to do anything to help Jess. Gray is sigh-worthy, good-looking and smart young man. He’s a hockey player, works hard, and helps care for his elderly grandmother with whom he lives. “Almost” perfect!

The secondary cast adds substantial humor and depth to this story as well. I really enjoyed Gray’s best friends and Jess’s sister. The “first love” between Jess and Gray is presented in a typical teenage/young adult manner which is both believable and delightful. The story is overflowing with emotion.

For me, this YA book was “almost, very nearly, not quite” a 5-star read. Highly recommend.

[Shelly Crane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Gray was a breathtaking book boy. The things he did for her and the lengths he went for her....oh....love him.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

- there is a lot of unnecessary scenes that could (and should) have been cut out
- there are some very obvious typos (who edited this?)
- I was NOT a fan of the writing. My younger sister can write better than this.
- Jess is rude and harsh to everyone. It's hard to like her. Also, what is up with all the glaring? -_-
- there's too much drama, too many hidden secrets, too many lies (especially within her family)
- nonetheless, worth a read

This needs a cover change @_@

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Possible spoiler alert**

A beautiful love story, which might be hard to believe because of the story line but it really is. It's deep and raw, though, and not a fluffy romantic ride but still a romantic one nonetheless.

But I must warn you; if you don't like graphic details you should either stay clear or have this in mind before you pick it up, because Jess' almost rape scene is very much played out at one point. And that might be hard to read about.. it's disturbing and so sad, but if you'll be able to not let that stop you, pick this book up. It's such a beautiful story and the love between Jess and Gray is truly wonderful.

And Gray Porter.. How I love you. Why can't the world be filled with Grays'.... *sigh*
He's THE most unselfish, caring and SWEETEST guy! Really, he's just so adorable. His love for Jess is beyond beautiful.
I'm going to swoon over him for a few days, that's for sure.. *sigh again*

And Jess.. Oh, how you feel for her in this story. She's so amazingly strong but puts up a steely facade to block everyone out, and to block her feelings out.. but once Gray is able to break down that facade, you'll see how truly sweet and amazing she is (even though you know that from the beginning).

Kika, Michelle and Corey are awesome!

And I do kind of agree with Jess... BBB - Boys in books are better..

[Melissa Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG. I loved this book to no avail. I was searching Amazon looking for something to read and this was a recommendation. I am so happy it was recommended. The book had awesome reviews so I bought it. This book was so heart wrenching I could not put it down for long before I had to pick it back up and continue reading. I read it in on day and whoa. I felt for Jess from the beginning and saw were she was coming from. I LOVE Grey!!!!! He was wonderful and caring and damn near perfect. Both Jess and Grey blame themselves for the events of a fateful freshmen party were Jess was almost raped and Grey saved her but did not stay when she asked. They both have been punishing themselves for three years over that night. When Jess asks Grey to be her fake summer boyfriend; they both are in for a summer that will change them forever. Lies. Secrets. Love. Forgiveness. Words that best describe the book to me.

I love music and when I read books I picture them as movies and hear music to go along with the scene. What Makes You Beautiful - One Direction is what Grey sees of Jess. On My Own-JJ Heller Grey's feelings about THAT night and after. JJ Heller - Boat Song Grey's to Jess.

Lost - Gorilla Zoe, Jess in the beginning. Until You Came Along - JJ Heller, Jess's song to Grey.

[Cindi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Almost is a beautiful book about healing, redemption, and love. It gave me butterflies, made me laugh, and made me cry. A total must read.

ALMOST is everything I look for in YA. Great characters, story, and of course the kind of love that gives me butterflies and has me yelling "kiss! kiss!" at the characters. I love how the author shows us how Jess's struggle with the past and how she grows and gets stronger throughout the book (the younger sister was great, too) So many teen girls have dealt with this or a similar situation and I admire the author for addressing it and then showing that there's healing and hope. And then there's the secrets Gray's been holding in and how he deals with it. Gray Porter is sweet and cute and a great guy. The love story is totally sigh-worthy. I could go on and on about all the amazingness of this book, but I'll just say read it, read it, READ IT!!!

[Kellie Maddox-Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Person slaughtered: Me. Method used: Dimple. “

What an amazing story!
I LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!

The storyline was phenomenal, the characters AMAZING! The references to current things cracked me! Secondary characters were great! The whole book was just AMAZEBALLS.

I don’t think I can write a review about this without giving anything away but I’ll try.

At a party freshman year, popular girl Jess Jordan was almost raped.
Almost. Very nearly. Not Quite.

Three years later is no longer popular more like a social outcast, she likes it that way. She doesn’t sleep much and lives on a diet of Red Bulls. That way she seems as if she is better. Because she is.
Almost. Very nearly. Not Quite.

She decides she wants to go to college; only problem is she needs to show her parents that she is normal again. Because she is right?
Almost. Very nearly. Not Quite.

She decides to go for a summer internship at geekstuff.com to prove so, she doesn’t need the money just the normalcy.

Gray Porter made a promise to Jess’ parents 3 years ago that he would stay away from her as she doesn’t remember him. When he goes for the internship at geekstuff.com he is surprised to see Jess going for the same job. HE NEEDS THE MONEY. After all he quit the Hockey team 3 years ago and needs to pay his way to college now that he has no scholarship.

At the interview Gray finds this:

Jess Jordan’s How to be normal checklist
1. Make at least 2 new friends your own age.
2. Go places besides your room.
3. Get boyfriend
4. Make sure Mom and Dad notice numbers 1 through 3.

Jess decides he would be the perfect “fake boyfriend” they both want the job so she will work for free and in return Gray can have the money. She will also pay him to be her fake boyfriend for the summer. Gray hates the idea but he can’t let Jess ask anyone else to do it. His reasons for doing so are not for the money though.
But Jess can never find out the real reasons.

Some great one liners are-

but know –innocent children die, limbs will break, and walls will come crashing down.” – Jess
……
“Name me Edward or Peeta, or Prince Charming, and I swear I’ll quit.” – Gray
…...
But ignoring Gray Porter is like ignoring an elephant in a tutu. A really hot elephant- in a very manly tutu. – J ess
…..
Edward Cullen, with his arms protectively around Bella while Jacob glared at them, makes me want to puke. And they names their baby Renesme?
PLEASE. Worst. Name. EVER - Jess
…..
“I’d rather be in Forks? I shop in the HOB? What do these even mean?!” – Gray
…..
Obviously I’m allergic to beautiful, green, sparkling things. Like his stupid eyes. –Jess

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★½

“I know I’m acting crazy but I’m in love with this girl. Major love. And I have no idea what to do about it, so it’s messing with my sanity.”

I really love this book, but I have a problem with it. For the first half of the book, I could easily have walked away. It really didn't start to get interesting till after I had read about 50% of it, and it didn't become a book that I would sacrifice sleep for till I was nearly 80% through. I know one other person has had a similar experience. To me that seems like a mistake. I know a bunch of people who have a three chapter rule. If they book hasn't hooked them by then, they walk away.

Setting that aside, I'm glad I pushed through with this book. The final few chapters made everything else worth while (for me).

In her freshman year, Jess came very close to being raped. She was drugged and undressed but the would be rapist was interrupted and she was saved from that ordeal. But that trauma has defined every day of her life since. Her sleep is stolen by terrible nightmares, flashes of that night, and she survives on short naps in her car and cans of Red Bull.

Gray agrees to become her pretend boyfriend to help her appear normal in the hopes her parents' will allow her to attend college. But he isn't pretending to be in love with her, and he has a secret that could destroy any chance they have for a future.

Almost, despite the slow start is an uplifting and positive book about a woman coming to terms with a life changing trauma.

"Stop. I don't ever want to forget you being there. You were afraid, just like me. And I shouldn't be mad at you for that. You stepped up. You were my hero that night, and I see that now. You stopped him. Gray...you stopped him from hurting me when I couldn't."

(I'm not sure about the U.S., but in Australia something like 3 out of every 5 women will have experienced some form of sexual assault in their life. It's a tragic and largely hidden crime.)

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

BREATHTAKING. As in, stopped my breath.

I think Jess Jordan is my all time favourite!
Normally I'm all swoon swoon swoon on the guy... But JESS she just did it for me in this one. Don't get me wrong Gray Porter is totally swoon worthy and those one liners lol "I want you to know if we die right now, I won't be able to distinguish if i've made it to heaven or not, because I'm already sitting here with you. Like this." He is totally swoon worthy! and FUNNY!!

BUT

Jess Jordan....
Im not huge on highlighting my kindle will do it maybe once in a book but my little fingers where burning up my kindle screen highlighting everything that came out of Jess's mouth or went through her head! She is so funny Yep. I've stopped breathing. Baa, baa, BAA_OHMYGOD. I hate myself right now. I think I also blatantly sniffed him! bhahahaha

And then in the same heartbeat your heart just breaks for her!
she is so sweet and I loved her relationship with Kika
The nightmare can't compete with my sister. She's always had some special brand of magic. Asleep or awake, any space she occupies somehow instantly becomes the sweetest place on earth
I read that line and just instantly fell in-love with her!

This was just soo good! LOVED EVERY SECOND OF IT!
Loved her, loved Gray, loved this Book!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

(5 BIG ONES!!!)

Thank you, Biff, for lending me this e-book!!

This was spectacular! I mean, really...such a beautiful love story; had me in tears and laughing out loud. This was heavy stuff too, so don't be fooled; this is not a fluffy, I love you, kiss kiss, rainbows coming out of my ass love story. This was deep and real and I absolutely LOVE GRAY PORTER; I'm sorry, did you not hear me...I. LOVE. GRAY. PORTER. And Jess Jordan...I felt for her, felt her internal struggles. What she went through was traumatic and I loved how everything came together in the end. Bravo, Anne Eliot...this was SO damn good!

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 I rounded up for Gray.

This book came highly recommended from one of my best friends. She absolutely loved it and I wanted to as well. I really wanted to, but I just couldn't. I didn't love it, but that doesn't mean that I didn't like it.

The story follows Jess, a girl who was almost raped when she was 14 when she went to a party. All she remembers was that there was alcohol involved. She also has flashes of conversations from that night, but only a few words stand out such as "lucky girl". Jess doesn't feel lucky. Her parents treat her like she's still that 14 year old girl, everything she does is scrutinized and she can't even think about college. Even if her parents were going to let her go, she still has the nightmares to deal with. She has no friends besides her little sister, Kika. And it's because of her that Jess gets this idea to play "normal".



While at an interview for an internship, Jess meets Gray. She decides that Gray would be the perfect boyfriend for her "normal" scenario. And without any hesitation, Gray agrees. Soon, Jess is thrust into Gray's world and she even now has friends. Everything seems to be going great, right? Well yes, except for the nightmares are getting worse and there's the secret that Gray is keeping from everyone and would destroy Jess if she ever found out.

I adored Gray. Here was a guy who years ago was involved in something completely over his head and has dealt with it the only way he could. And when Jess comes into his life, he spends every day trying to make up for the past. He was so sweet to her, even though most of the time she didn't deserve it. I even really liked his friends, Cory and Michelle. I thought they added some much needed comedic relief to the story.

I did not like Jess's parents or her sister. I get wanting to protect your daughter, but there is such a thing as smothering. By them not ever really dealing with what happened, Jess never did and the whole thing got locked away. And also, their deal with the coach and Gray about that night, pure shit. As for Kika, I liked her in the beginning but then her attitude toward her sister did a 180 that I didn't really understand why she was there anymore.

Then there's Jess. I honestly still have no idea why Gray liked her. Her attitude toward him was horrible. And anytime he tried to talk to her, she played the "I'm crazy" card.



Ok, we get it, you're crazy. But you're also kind of bitchy. I just really didn't have that much sympathy for her.

The story was a really good idea and parts of it were brilliant, but when I couldn't connect with the main character, it ultimately fell flat for me.

This review can also be seen here at Book Jems.

[Gitte TotallyBookedBlog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Almost was an emotional, heart breaking, sweet and beautiful written story. As the title suggests it’s all about the ‘Almost’. Jess was ‘Almost’ raped. Because of this Jess has erected walls around herself and uses sarcasm and aloofness to avoid everyone as she retreats into herself and ultimately puts herself forward as an object of ‘Almost’ bitchy ridicule at school. This story is an intense and poignant read, it is filled with drama and angst and I was emotional through the whole journey wanting it to all turn out okay.

Jess remembers nothing from the night she was ‘Almost’ raped. She goes through such an emotional struggle every day trying to appear normal while she is plagued by nightmares of a night she can’t remember every time she sleeps. She therefore doesn't sleep much and tries to hide the continuous nightmares from everyone, especially her parents.

Jess’ parents are completely over protective of her. Understandably so, to a certain degree. They tell Jess that if she can prove that she can take control back of her life and become a ‘normal’ teenager with teenage activities; they will allow her to go away to college.

Jess goes for an internship interview where she strikes a deal with Gray Porter who is there for the same interview and goes to her school. So begins, an extremely emotional roller-coaster ride of discoveries, blame, personal struggles, love, confessions, secrets and an ‘Almost’.

I loved the alternating POV’s of both characters this allowed us an understanding of what Jess and Gray went through in the past and in the present dating from the night of ‘Almost’, and wow did their journey have an impact on me.

I can highly recommend this book!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book makes me rethink the 5 stars I've given to other books... it's really that incredible! I happen to LOVE GUYS IN BOOKS better than in real life. And until I can meet a real life grey porter.. I'm not quite convinced they get any better. ;)
Almost had suspense, didn't leave me with any annoying questions that I would've been upset weren't answered by the end, was TOTALLY ROMANTIC (and so amazing it made me jittery and all 'butter-flies'.., had a NON-rushed perfect ending that left readers satisified on all accounts ( flashbacks lead up to a perfect scene and of course gray and jess's love was finalized.. just not in ink ;] ), and last but not least... this is my New Favorite Book that I feel like I've been searching for forever! I even think the cover is cool :D

LOVE THIS BOOK so much and will be rereading over and over and over. Recommend to anyone with a beating heart that has a tendency to quicken when you feel the love or when you fall in love.. with a character.

Oh, one last thing... I reallly loved how the perspective switched because it made it even more interesting to see all the little cute thoughts wrapped up in gray's mind :D but still understand the story from a girls perspective as well. And the plot also all came together and made so much sense why gray felt guilty a little and why he signed the contract in the first place. The "almost" rape scene seemed realistic and quite creepy to me; it kept me on edge.. which was the point. :]

So, all in all, I cannot believe I hadn't read this before!!!!

[CJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

**NOTE: I am updating my reviews. Y'know: older, wiser, more eloquent.**

This is the first YA book that I've read that tackles a real-world disorder in all its realism, yet is as charming and fun as Almost.

Jess Jordan suffers from PTSD from when she was assaulted and almost raped when she was fourteen. Skip to four years later, and Jess is preparing for college. But her parents won't let her go unless they think she's better. So she decides to pay ex-hockey player Gray Porter to be her boyfriend. Only for the summer, of course.

This book was profound in a number of ways. First and foremost, Jess' portrayal of PTSD. Elliot does a fantastic job of making Jess a likable, interesting, and realistic character, who suffers with very well portrayed PTSD. Eliot tackles PTSD with such tact and elegance, this book isn't about PTSD, it's about the human experience of a girl dealing with a disorder.

Gray Porter was a great addition to the cast. He's a likeable guy, and he genuinely cares about Jess. He deals with Jess adorably, and treats her like a person and not her experience. The situation is a little silly: he's pretending to be her boyfriend. It's a serious situation wrapped up in a rom-com type experience that makes for a charming, delightfully witty, but a bit more serious read.

My recommendation: Definitely give this book a try. If you have any qualms about rape, assault, or PTSD give this one a pass. If you're looking for a light, easy read, that's more profound than typical high school romance, this is an excellent choice for you.