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Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend
Newer edition found here
It’s stupid to fall for your brother’s ex. It’s even worse to enlist another’s help to win the ex over. But Brody is desperate and Hayley, his partner in American Sign Language, is more than willing to lend him a few tips.
She’s the school’s matchmaker,’ and with her bizarre and positive personality, Brody finds her easy to talk to, even about the most awkward situations. Hayley’s tips seem to be working, but as Brody learns more about his matchmaker, he starts finding reasons to spend time with her, and not the girl he thought he was in love with.
But Hayley isn’t ready to fall for anyone. Labeled the “Funny Fat Friend” within her group, her self image makes it impossible for Brody to share his feelings without Hayley shrugging it off as a joke.
Convincing her Brody can, and did, fall for the “Funny Fat Friend” turns out to be harder than simply falling in love.
Written by Cassie Mae under the pen name Becca Ann.
It’s stupid to fall for your brother’s ex. It’s even worse to enlist another’s help to win the ex over. But Brody is desperate and Hayley, his partner in American Sign Language, is more than willing to lend him a few tips.
She’s the school’s matchmaker,’ and with her bizarre and positive personality, Brody finds her easy to talk to, even about the most awkward situations. Hayley’s tips seem to be working, but as Brody learns more about his matchmaker, he starts finding reasons to spend time with her, and not the girl he thought he was in love with.
But Hayley isn’t ready to fall for anyone. Labeled the “Funny Fat Friend” within her group, her self image makes it impossible for Brody to share his feelings without Hayley shrugging it off as a joke.
Convincing her Brody can, and did, fall for the “Funny Fat Friend” turns out to be harder than simply falling in love.
Written by Cassie Mae under the pen name Becca Ann.
203 pages, ebook
First published January 7, 2013
164 people are currently reading
7327 people want to read
About the author
Cassie Mae
46 books1,147 followersCASSIE MAE is the author of a few hundred—okay, maybe not that many—books, some of which became popular for their quirky titles, characters, and stories. She likes writing about nerds, geeks, the awkward, the fluffy, the short, the shy, the loud, the fun.
Since publishing her bestselling debut, Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend, she’s signed several Romance titles with Random House Loveswept, and founded CookieLynn Publishing Services. She is represented by Sharon Pelletier at Dystel & Goderich Literary Management.
Along with writing, Cassie likes to binge-watch Once Upon a Time and The Flash. She can quote Harry Potter lines quick as a whip. And she likes kissing her hubby, but only if his facial hair is trimmed. She also likes cheesecake to a very obsessive degree.
You can stalk, talk, or send pictures of Luke Bryan to her on her Facebook page.
cassiemaeauthor.com
Facebook.com/cassiemaeauthor
Since publishing her bestselling debut, Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend, she’s signed several Romance titles with Random House Loveswept, and founded CookieLynn Publishing Services. She is represented by Sharon Pelletier at Dystel & Goderich Literary Management.
Along with writing, Cassie likes to binge-watch Once Upon a Time and The Flash. She can quote Harry Potter lines quick as a whip. And she likes kissing her hubby, but only if his facial hair is trimmed. She also likes cheesecake to a very obsessive degree.
You can stalk, talk, or send pictures of Luke Bryan to her on her Facebook page.
cassiemaeauthor.com
Facebook.com/cassiemaeauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 878 reviews
November 25, 2013
I see from the high ratings this book has received that a lot of people like it. I can't really fault them for that since it is a rather cute premise and reading it wasn't torture. I've had a little while to think things through, however, and....well, I'm not entirely sure about this, but I think I just might be a bit more critical than the average reader.
As stated previously, the premise is good. Sadly, premise (and the author's intent) do not always translate to a good read. Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend reads like a story from someone who really wants to tell a story but has absolutely no idea how to do so compellingly. There is no immersion whatsoever, the reader is just slid along the surface, never once getting a peek at anything deeper. Yes, teenagers can be shallow, but this story hints at the fact that they can be more without once showing us more. I found Brody's voice to be simplistic, redundant, immature, and slightly annoying (do people from Oklahoma really drop that many G's?!), and while I was informed that Hayley was supposedly hi-larious, I wasn't doing a whole lot of laughing. Much of the humor felt forced and awkward.
When I say the reader is never shown any depth, I mean Becca Ann hints at depth without really delving. Brody has issues with his douchebag of an older brother and his "bio-dad", but these issues are never fully addressed. We get a confrontation scene between Brody and Gabe (the brother), but then the entire issue is dropped. Hayley has some serious self-image issues and her mother is ridiculously emotionally abusive, but these issues are also never fully explored. It seems as if the character of Hayley's mother exists merely to provide an abusive backdrop and excuse for Hayley's insecurities. For some reason, Hayley "winces" or "flinches" any time someone uses a swear (rolling my eyes so hard it hurts), and Brody figures this out and cleans up his language, but do we ever find out why Hayley has a physical reaction to foul language? Nnnnnope!
Brody kept calling himself a douche, Hayley kept calling herself fat, there was a bunch of contrived drama and stilted humor, and then I ran across "dually noted" and wanted to punch something. Yeah, it might be petty, but I guess I'm just confused about why there are so many inept writers out there. I mean, most people who love to read and/or write are lovers of words. When it is quite obvious you are not a word lover, your passion for using them to craft a story makes no sense to me.
Dually noted.
That being said, the book isn't awful. It's just not nearly as funny or as poignant as the descriptions and reviews make it out to be.
As stated previously, the premise is good. Sadly, premise (and the author's intent) do not always translate to a good read. Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend reads like a story from someone who really wants to tell a story but has absolutely no idea how to do so compellingly. There is no immersion whatsoever, the reader is just slid along the surface, never once getting a peek at anything deeper. Yes, teenagers can be shallow, but this story hints at the fact that they can be more without once showing us more. I found Brody's voice to be simplistic, redundant, immature, and slightly annoying (do people from Oklahoma really drop that many G's?!), and while I was informed that Hayley was supposedly hi-larious, I wasn't doing a whole lot of laughing. Much of the humor felt forced and awkward.
When I say the reader is never shown any depth, I mean Becca Ann hints at depth without really delving. Brody has issues with his douchebag of an older brother and his "bio-dad", but these issues are never fully addressed. We get a confrontation scene between Brody and Gabe (the brother), but then the entire issue is dropped. Hayley has some serious self-image issues and her mother is ridiculously emotionally abusive, but these issues are also never fully explored. It seems as if the character of Hayley's mother exists merely to provide an abusive backdrop and excuse for Hayley's insecurities. For some reason, Hayley "winces" or "flinches" any time someone uses a swear (rolling my eyes so hard it hurts), and Brody figures this out and cleans up his language, but do we ever find out why Hayley has a physical reaction to foul language? Nnnnnope!
Brody kept calling himself a douche, Hayley kept calling herself fat, there was a bunch of contrived drama and stilted humor, and then I ran across "dually noted" and wanted to punch something. Yeah, it might be petty, but I guess I'm just confused about why there are so many inept writers out there. I mean, most people who love to read and/or write are lovers of words. When it is quite obvious you are not a word lover, your passion for using them to craft a story makes no sense to me.
Dually noted.
That being said, the book isn't awful. It's just not nearly as funny or as poignant as the descriptions and reviews make it out to be.
February 27, 2018
This review can also be found on my blog: A Match Made in Heaven
I have had some fairly good luck with contemps lately. This and Losing It getting 5 stars from me within a month? Thats monumental! I think maybe the trick is for me to stick to the funny contemps.
Reason 1: You know how to sign the word 'balls'
Reason 2: You walk with a book on your head
Reason 3: You know how to make awkward less awkward
Reason 4: Its easy with you
Reason 5. You know how to make a guy feel pretty good about himself
Reason 6: You give the best hugs
Reason 7: I think about you before I think about her
Reason 8: You slaughter me at Ghost Recon
Reason 9: You turned me into a psycho
The title says 'Funny Fat Friend', and they were right about the funny part. Hayley is hilarious, amazing, and totally "awesomesauce". :P And when she told Brody he had to make a list of reasons why he chose her over a skinny girl, he actually found it extremely easy, and was daily adding new things to the list as he discovered more and more reasons to love her.
Reason 10: You are the FHF--Freaking Hot Friend
Reason 11: You are perceptive
Reason 12: You don't let myjackass jerk brother get to you
Reason 13: I'd beat the crap out of my own flesh and blood for you
Reason 14: Ineed crave you
Reason 15: You rock some sexy ink
Reason 16: You make me feel all that gooeyshit crap I'm supposed to feel
Reason 17: You're a cute little cheater
Reason 18: You make me nervous, but not nervous
Brody was a great guy. He felt totally genuine and realistic and just the right amount of sappy. He fell for Hayley fast and hard. When it started, I thought the book would be about the process of him falling for her, but he was almost instantly in awe of her, from the first chapter. The rest of the book was mostly him trying to prove it to her. Making her realize she deserved it.
Reason 19: Pictures of bleeding people don't make you want to puke
Reason 20: If eyes can be hot, yours are smoking
Reason 21: You can put boob marks in all my shirts and I wont care
Reason 22: You smile when you kiss
Reason 23: You're as horny as I am
Reason 24: I cant lie to you
Reason 25: When you're pissed at me, I turn into a depressed slob who cant stop listening to pop crap
This book was totally sweet and heartwarming, and fun, and just the right amount of drama to not piss me off. Lovable characters, a YA-appropriate touch of hot, and an HEA. What else could you ask for? :) This is definitely one that I'll be re-reading in the future.
Reason 26: I want to shout it to the world that I'm in love with you
Reason 27: You are THE girl
I have had some fairly good luck with contemps lately. This and Losing It getting 5 stars from me within a month? Thats monumental! I think maybe the trick is for me to stick to the funny contemps.
Reason 1: You know how to sign the word 'balls'
Reason 2: You walk with a book on your head
Reason 3: You know how to make awkward less awkward
Reason 4: Its easy with you
Reason 5. You know how to make a guy feel pretty good about himself
Reason 6: You give the best hugs
Reason 7: I think about you before I think about her
Reason 8: You slaughter me at Ghost Recon
Reason 9: You turned me into a psycho
The title says 'Funny Fat Friend', and they were right about the funny part. Hayley is hilarious, amazing, and totally "awesomesauce". :P And when she told Brody he had to make a list of reasons why he chose her over a skinny girl, he actually found it extremely easy, and was daily adding new things to the list as he discovered more and more reasons to love her.
Reason 10: You are the FHF--Freaking Hot Friend
Reason 11: You are perceptive
Reason 12: You don't let my
Reason 13: I'd beat the crap out of my own flesh and blood for you
Reason 14: I
Reason 15: You rock some sexy ink
Reason 16: You make me feel all that gooey
Reason 17: You're a cute little cheater
Reason 18: You make me nervous, but not nervous
Brody was a great guy. He felt totally genuine and realistic and just the right amount of sappy. He fell for Hayley fast and hard. When it started, I thought the book would be about the process of him falling for her, but he was almost instantly in awe of her, from the first chapter. The rest of the book was mostly him trying to prove it to her. Making her realize she deserved it.
Reason 19: Pictures of bleeding people don't make you want to puke
Reason 20: If eyes can be hot, yours are smoking
Reason 21: You can put boob marks in all my shirts and I wont care
Reason 22: You smile when you kiss
Reason 23: You're as horny as I am
Reason 24: I cant lie to you
Reason 25: When you're pissed at me, I turn into a depressed slob who cant stop listening to pop crap
This book was totally sweet and heartwarming, and fun, and just the right amount of drama to not piss me off. Lovable characters, a YA-appropriate touch of hot, and an HEA. What else could you ask for? :) This is definitely one that I'll be re-reading in the future.
Reason 26: I want to shout it to the world that I'm in love with you
Reason 27: You are THE girl
March 21, 2013
One word to describe this book...
Thats what Hayley would say anyway! This was a short (only took a little over 2 hours to read) but super cute and funny book! Just what I needed after the emotionally taxing reading week I've had!
One of the best things about this book was it was from the guys perspective (which I love). Brody- I loved me some Brody!
Brody is a popular guy who has the hots for his older brothers ex. He becomes friends with Hayley. Hayley decides to help him get the girl. Sounds good right? Well, after spending so much time with Hayley, Brody realizes SHE is the girl he wants. Hayley is fanfreakingtastic! I mean seriously funny and adorable. I love her lingo. Of course she doesn't think someone hot and popular like Brody would ever really fall for the chubby girl who he's just friends with...
A good book with a great message. Had a few good laughs, kept a smile on my face! If you are looking for a lighter read thats cute, funny and sweet- check this one out!!!
Thats what Hayley would say anyway! This was a short (only took a little over 2 hours to read) but super cute and funny book! Just what I needed after the emotionally taxing reading week I've had!
One of the best things about this book was it was from the guys perspective (which I love). Brody- I loved me some Brody!
Brody is a popular guy who has the hots for his older brothers ex. He becomes friends with Hayley. Hayley decides to help him get the girl. Sounds good right? Well, after spending so much time with Hayley, Brody realizes SHE is the girl he wants. Hayley is fanfreakingtastic! I mean seriously funny and adorable. I love her lingo. Of course she doesn't think someone hot and popular like Brody would ever really fall for the chubby girl who he's just friends with...
A good book with a great message. Had a few good laughs, kept a smile on my face! If you are looking for a lighter read thats cute, funny and sweet- check this one out!!!
December 19, 2012
HILarious and SO real with an incredible voice.
This is a laugh out loud funny book with some fun smexy moments thrown in and a great love story.
This is a laugh out loud funny book with some fun smexy moments thrown in and a great love story.
February 3, 2013
Four Stars
How could I want anyone else? She’s amazing, that girl. Damn sexy, funny, and just knows how to make me feel…all that crap you’re suppose to feel when you’re with the girl you just have to be around.
I need her.
No. I crave her.
First off, do not get let the not so great title of this book steer you away. If I can be honest, it almost made me not want to read this book. The cover is cute and I really like it, but the title? Not so much. I hate that word: Fat. I’ve always had a complex about it, but I’m sure a lot of girls do. When do we women ever think we are ever skinny enough? lol. Exactly! However, I am a sucker for stories where the not so typical skinny minnies get the hot guy, so of course I had to read it. I’m very glad I did, too :)
“I’m not exactly Miss Size Zero.”
Huh?
“I’m what they call the FFF.”
“Meaning?”
“The Funny Fat Friend.”
Hayley has always been the FFF. She’s also the friend that guys go through to get to the girl they actually want. Kind of like the matchmaker, per se. She’s set up a lot of her friends this way. She’s always felt that this was her role: The inevitable matchmaker. So when she notices her American Sign Language friend, Brody, always constantly swooning at his brother’s ex-girlfriend, Quynn, she offers her help.
I take a deep breath and grab her hand. I’m not going to let her shake me off this time. “I like you, alright? I want to date you not out of pity, but because I…I need to. Hayles, I can’t get you off my mind.”
Brody didn’t know what he signed up for when he takes Hayley’s offer to help him win Quynn’s heart. Brody has always been infatuated with his brother’s ex. She’s every guys’ dream: Blonde, skinny, friendly and popular. However, the more time he spends with Hayley, the more he likes her. He’s never thought of her as fat or ugly. As a matter of fact, Brody thinks Hayley is beautiful, inside and out. She makes him laugh, and just feels naturally comfortable around her. The quirky little thinks she does drive him crazy. Who knew this girl would turn his life upside down?
I’m not going to stop until she tells me to stop. I love her. And I want to have one of my firsts with her too.
It takes Hayley forever to believe a guy like Brody would be interested in a girl like her. Brody tries to send the right signals, but it literally goes over her head and/or she just ignores it. However, when she does let him in, it was one of those moments where I couldn’t stop grinning. I was so flipping happy, it was ridiculous.
Just pure Awesomesauce!
This is another one of those impromptu reads that I just needed. Just an FYI, this is strictly YA. Not too much hanky panky going around, but there was a little. Let’s just say that it was enough to make me swoon. However, I did find the clean language a little too clean. The stuff that came out of Hayley’s mouth were a bit on the very cheesy, clean side, but then again, I have a sailor mouth so the lack of dirty talk made me a bit uncomfortable. LOL! Yea. I know…I have issues. Fuck. Shit. Damn. I mean, is it really that hard to say? LOL!
Whoops! There I go, rambling again. My bad. LOL. Anyway, I LOVED the fact that the story was told in Brody’s POV. I love getting into the guy’s head. Its so cute how he struggled to come to the obvious conclusion. He’s just a sweetheart.
The relationship between Brody and Hayley matures at a nice rate; nothing was ever rushed. Sometimes, I wished it moved a slight bit faster, but meh! I was still all good with the results ;) This was such a fast, predictable and enjoyable read and would recommend it to anyone looking for a very good, very cute and clean YA story.
How could I want anyone else? She’s amazing, that girl. Damn sexy, funny, and just knows how to make me feel…all that crap you’re suppose to feel when you’re with the girl you just have to be around.
I need her.
No. I crave her.
First off, do not get let the not so great title of this book steer you away. If I can be honest, it almost made me not want to read this book. The cover is cute and I really like it, but the title? Not so much. I hate that word: Fat. I’ve always had a complex about it, but I’m sure a lot of girls do. When do we women ever think we are ever skinny enough? lol. Exactly! However, I am a sucker for stories where the not so typical skinny minnies get the hot guy, so of course I had to read it. I’m very glad I did, too :)
“I’m not exactly Miss Size Zero.”
Huh?
“I’m what they call the FFF.”
“Meaning?”
“The Funny Fat Friend.”
Hayley has always been the FFF. She’s also the friend that guys go through to get to the girl they actually want. Kind of like the matchmaker, per se. She’s set up a lot of her friends this way. She’s always felt that this was her role: The inevitable matchmaker. So when she notices her American Sign Language friend, Brody, always constantly swooning at his brother’s ex-girlfriend, Quynn, she offers her help.
I take a deep breath and grab her hand. I’m not going to let her shake me off this time. “I like you, alright? I want to date you not out of pity, but because I…I need to. Hayles, I can’t get you off my mind.”
Brody didn’t know what he signed up for when he takes Hayley’s offer to help him win Quynn’s heart. Brody has always been infatuated with his brother’s ex. She’s every guys’ dream: Blonde, skinny, friendly and popular. However, the more time he spends with Hayley, the more he likes her. He’s never thought of her as fat or ugly. As a matter of fact, Brody thinks Hayley is beautiful, inside and out. She makes him laugh, and just feels naturally comfortable around her. The quirky little thinks she does drive him crazy. Who knew this girl would turn his life upside down?
I’m not going to stop until she tells me to stop. I love her. And I want to have one of my firsts with her too.
It takes Hayley forever to believe a guy like Brody would be interested in a girl like her. Brody tries to send the right signals, but it literally goes over her head and/or she just ignores it. However, when she does let him in, it was one of those moments where I couldn’t stop grinning. I was so flipping happy, it was ridiculous.
Just pure Awesomesauce!
This is another one of those impromptu reads that I just needed. Just an FYI, this is strictly YA. Not too much hanky panky going around, but there was a little. Let’s just say that it was enough to make me swoon. However, I did find the clean language a little too clean. The stuff that came out of Hayley’s mouth were a bit on the very cheesy, clean side, but then again, I have a sailor mouth so the lack of dirty talk made me a bit uncomfortable. LOL! Yea. I know…I have issues. Fuck. Shit. Damn. I mean, is it really that hard to say? LOL!
Whoops! There I go, rambling again. My bad. LOL. Anyway, I LOVED the fact that the story was told in Brody’s POV. I love getting into the guy’s head. Its so cute how he struggled to come to the obvious conclusion. He’s just a sweetheart.
The relationship between Brody and Hayley matures at a nice rate; nothing was ever rushed. Sometimes, I wished it moved a slight bit faster, but meh! I was still all good with the results ;) This was such a fast, predictable and enjoyable read and would recommend it to anyone looking for a very good, very cute and clean YA story.
June 2, 2016
For this review and more, pop by my blog - Drugs Called Books
Here is a book I knew I wanted to read the second I read the title. I found it b accident, and I'm so glad I did. As someone who feels like "the funny fat friend", this book was perfect for me. Now, do not mistake; Brody, the main characters, does not find Hayley “fat”. That’s Hayley’s idea of herself.
I came out of the read feeling hopeful and happy for myself, which I think is a wonderful thing.
Brody, the guy, is the one who narrates this book. This is one of the only books I’ve read in which the point of view is the guy’s. And unlike the other few I read, here I loved it.
Brody’s voice is very authentic. He sounds and acts like the teenager he is, only he happens to be just the greatest guy! He is sweet, shy in an adorable way, unaware of how attractive he is (he’s got a six pack, for goodness sake!) and really clueless when it comes to girls. He’s also perceptive and attentive. Really, I wouldn’t mind dating him at all :)
Hayley, the main girl is... me. She's insecure about herself and doesn't really believe someone like Brody can really love her, the FFF (Funny fat friend). It gets to the point that when someone calls her fat, even though she really isn't all that fat, she doesn't mind because she just accepts it. She's very good in the matters of the heart--all but her own, of course. She's funny and quirky and cute, and I absolutely loved her.
Their relationship was wonderful to me. It happened fast, I'll tell you that, but it was so believable and freaking cute and adorable that I couldn't care less. Plus, they spend so much time together, just getting to know one another, that it felt like they knew each other much longer. They didn't just fall for one another. It's not a baseless love, where you don't understand why they fall for each other, and their reasons for loving aren't shallow. It's not about looks or statue. It's about each other.
Each chapter's title is a reason why Brody fell for Hayley, which is another thing I adore about this book. The reasons are really funny, but also true. For example; she can sign language the word 'balls', she kicks-ass at video games, she goes to look at bloody pictures of people when she feels down to remind her other people has it so much worse. He falls for who she is, quirkiness and self-doubt and everything. He falls for what makes her, her. I love those kind of things.
Also, as this book was from Brody's POV, we got to see some wonderful things, such as how suddenly she became the most beautiful girl in the world to him, even though other people may refer to her as fat or chubby. I think this really sums up love perfectly--theirs and other's-- seeing the other person as beautiful no matter what.
Now, if that's not enough, these two have got some HOT kisses! I'm serious, I needed to fan myself when they were kissing! (also, we've got sex, but the fade-to-black kind so don't worry). I loved reading the after sex part, when they wake up. Seriously, I love this due.
Okay, enough about the romance (even though it was sooo swoon worthy -.^)
Another thing I really liked about this book, is that there is no 'Big Bad Villain' threatening their relationship. Their obstacles are their own feelings about themselves, and they work through them.
There are not enough words for me to express the great LOVE I have for this book! Aside for me being able to connect to the characters 100%, it was also just so funny, fluffy, and just damn adorable. And this book made me think that even the “Funny Fat Friend” deserves her happy ever after~
For this review and more, pop by my blog - Drugs Called Books
Here is a book I knew I wanted to read the second I read the title. I found it b accident, and I'm so glad I did. As someone who feels like "the funny fat friend", this book was perfect for me. Now, do not mistake; Brody, the main characters, does not find Hayley “fat”. That’s Hayley’s idea of herself.
I came out of the read feeling hopeful and happy for myself, which I think is a wonderful thing.
More than half the time, girls who think they’re fat really aren’t. They’re just fatter than the skinniest chick in school. And even that girl thinks she’s fat. So when Hayley, my signing partner in American Sign Language shrugs off Josh moo-ing at her as she walks in the room, that’s when I figure this girl… isn’t like most girls.
First paragraph of Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend.
Brody, the guy, is the one who narrates this book. This is one of the only books I’ve read in which the point of view is the guy’s. And unlike the other few I read, here I loved it.
Brody’s voice is very authentic. He sounds and acts like the teenager he is, only he happens to be just the greatest guy! He is sweet, shy in an adorable way, unaware of how attractive he is (he’s got a six pack, for goodness sake!) and really clueless when it comes to girls. He’s also perceptive and attentive. Really, I wouldn’t mind dating him at all :)
Hayley, the main girl is... me. She's insecure about herself and doesn't really believe someone like Brody can really love her, the FFF (Funny fat friend). It gets to the point that when someone calls her fat, even though she really isn't all that fat, she doesn't mind because she just accepts it. She's very good in the matters of the heart--all but her own, of course. She's funny and quirky and cute, and I absolutely loved her.
Their relationship was wonderful to me. It happened fast, I'll tell you that, but it was so believable and freaking cute and adorable that I couldn't care less. Plus, they spend so much time together, just getting to know one another, that it felt like they knew each other much longer. They didn't just fall for one another. It's not a baseless love, where you don't understand why they fall for each other, and their reasons for loving aren't shallow. It's not about looks or statue. It's about each other.
Each chapter's title is a reason why Brody fell for Hayley, which is another thing I adore about this book. The reasons are really funny, but also true. For example; she can sign language the word 'balls', she kicks-ass at video games, she goes to look at bloody pictures of people when she feels down to remind her other people has it so much worse. He falls for who she is, quirkiness and self-doubt and everything. He falls for what makes her, her. I love those kind of things.
Also, as this book was from Brody's POV, we got to see some wonderful things, such as how suddenly she became the most beautiful girl in the world to him, even though other people may refer to her as fat or chubby. I think this really sums up love perfectly--theirs and other's-- seeing the other person as beautiful no matter what.
Now, if that's not enough, these two have got some HOT kisses! I'm serious, I needed to fan myself when they were kissing! (also, we've got sex, but the fade-to-black kind so don't worry). I loved reading the after sex part, when they wake up. Seriously, I love this due.
Okay, enough about the romance (even though it was sooo swoon worthy -.^)
Another thing I really liked about this book, is that there is no 'Big Bad Villain' threatening their relationship. Their obstacles are their own feelings about themselves, and they work through them.
There are not enough words for me to express the great LOVE I have for this book! Aside for me being able to connect to the characters 100%, it was also just so funny, fluffy, and just damn adorable. And this book made me think that even the “Funny Fat Friend” deserves her happy ever after~
For this review and more, pop by my blog - Drugs Called Books
March 6, 2013
CUTE. SUPER CUTE. CUTE
I could not put this book down. I cant decide what i Loved most - The adorable chapter titles, the male POV or the quite frankly amazing witty writing. I.LOVED. THIS. BOOK.
Refreshing, laugh out loud funny, cute as can be, tummy going crazy first smooch, nothing beats a well written teeny bopper book.
Easy 4 stars from me and a welcome break from the over sexed mini drama's I've been reading of late.
I could not put this book down. I cant decide what i Loved most - The adorable chapter titles, the male POV or the quite frankly amazing witty writing. I.LOVED. THIS. BOOK.
Refreshing, laugh out loud funny, cute as can be, tummy going crazy first smooch, nothing beats a well written teeny bopper book.
Easy 4 stars from me and a welcome break from the over sexed mini drama's I've been reading of late.
February 3, 2013
Awesomesauce. Seriously. Absolutely fantastic light, happy, fun, touching YA read.
I LOVED that the book was all from Brody's POV. The inner dialogue of a teenage guy certainly was entertaining.
"The room is too hot. All the sweat makes my clothes stick to my balls. Man, if Quynn walks in right when I'm adjust myself I may as well sniff my hand afterwards too, since that's how attractive I'll look.
Ok Brody, be quick about this. Be cool. How do you look cool when you scratch yourself? She's still not here. Do it now! It's driving you crazy
One quick shift later, nuts are in the right place and no one seems to have noticed. What a big deal over nothin'"
Oh man, I just loved Brody. Seriously, he's the kind of guy I hope my boys grow up to be one day. He's not perfect (what 18 year old boy is) but his heart is in in the right place, and he follows through with his good intentions, almost all of the time.
My heart broke for Haley. Poor girl came by her low self esteem honestly, that's for sure. I wish we could have had a flash forward, enough to know that someday she really could put all that crap behind her. She was such a great character. Funny, smart, genuine and unique. Beautiful inside and out.
I adored how each chapter was titled with one if the reasons Brody fell for Haley.
"Reason number 13: I'd beat the crap out of my own flesh and blood for you. "
Getting to know Brody and Hales, and watching them fall in love just gave me all sorts of warm and fuzzies.
I have zero complaints about this one. It's getting a permanent spot on my "re-read when you need to feel good" shelf.
.
I LOVED that the book was all from Brody's POV. The inner dialogue of a teenage guy certainly was entertaining.
"The room is too hot. All the sweat makes my clothes stick to my balls. Man, if Quynn walks in right when I'm adjust myself I may as well sniff my hand afterwards too, since that's how attractive I'll look.
Ok Brody, be quick about this. Be cool. How do you look cool when you scratch yourself? She's still not here. Do it now! It's driving you crazy
One quick shift later, nuts are in the right place and no one seems to have noticed. What a big deal over nothin'"
Oh man, I just loved Brody. Seriously, he's the kind of guy I hope my boys grow up to be one day. He's not perfect (what 18 year old boy is) but his heart is in in the right place, and he follows through with his good intentions, almost all of the time.
My heart broke for Haley. Poor girl came by her low self esteem honestly, that's for sure. I wish we could have had a flash forward, enough to know that someday she really could put all that crap behind her. She was such a great character. Funny, smart, genuine and unique. Beautiful inside and out.
I adored how each chapter was titled with one if the reasons Brody fell for Haley.
"Reason number 13: I'd beat the crap out of my own flesh and blood for you. "
Getting to know Brody and Hales, and watching them fall in love just gave me all sorts of warm and fuzzies.
I have zero complaints about this one. It's getting a permanent spot on my "re-read when you need to feel good" shelf.
.
February 6, 2013
There was an article that I read back in September that brought up the fact that despite the near-inclusiveness of YA books, fat people were still not as highlighted nor embraced as mainstream characters, and that fat-shaming was one of the few remaining acceptable targets. While I’m all for being healthy (I know that I ought to be better with my diet), I hate fat-shaming. I detest the yearly onslaught of “New Year’s Resolution- Lose X Pounds!”; I hate the criticism of a perfectly healthy person being chubby; and I loathe the BMI with a fiery burning passion. (Fun fact! The person who thought up the BMI did so to prove possible criminal activity. Yeah.)
For teenage girls, it’s worse. Not only do we have to deal with the relentless onslaught that is high school—which does wonders for confidence, let me tell you—but we have no one to look up to. When I was in school, I didn’t have any chubby role models, much less anyone who could be considered “fat” but still seen as a sex object. For a while, there was Jordin Sparks, but even she lost weight. The fat girl cannot be a sexualized object, and should she even dare think of sex, she must be ridiculed for it.
We need more books like this one.
There is no magical weight-loss makeover here. No impossible standards by which the heroine is considered fat. No chubby-chasing, despite what Brody’s brother thinks. And Hayley isn’t ridiculed for attempting to be sexy.
Why didn’t I have a book like this when I was sixteen?
Hayley is one of the more realistic heroines I’ve come across in a long time. She’s insecure about her weight and how boys see her, but she has a wicked sense of humor that she utilizes. (I loved when she rates her body, noting “Well, the good thing is I have a rack.”) Yes, in most other books, whenever Hayley turns down Brody, it could have been “You idiot, can’t you see he loves you!” But it’s not here, because we see why Hayley’s so insecure about boys liking her and what they really want her for. The fact that Brody has fallen for Hayley is unbelievable for her because she’s been told (directly and indirectly) that she’ll never be good enough for any passable guy. Even when Brody does act like an idiot and doesn’t tell anyone about their relationship, it felt more true here when Hayley gets upset because she does have a reason for having that reaction. If anything, I would have liked to gotten more with her mother, maybe to flesh out Hayley’s insecurities more. But I do really like her. I also like that while she’s fat, Hayley’s friendly with everyone and isn’t treated like a member of the lower caste. And even though it’s not dwelt on, her body is brought up in text, not only through Brody’s sex filter, but also in minor scenes, like when she gets her tattoo. I also love that she’s able to fall naturally into conversations with Brody; it gives the two a lot of chemistry and really sets up their relationship.
The other thing I absolutely love about this book is Brody. On a writing standpoint, it is really hard to write the opposite sex and pull it off well. Brody’s voice was extremely strong and he did feel like a genuine teenage boy, with the constant acknowledgements of “Oh, God, I’m checking her out, aren’t I?” Yet despite being a horny teenage boy, Brody earns my undying love in that he is respectful toward women. Not “big man help puny women-folk”-masked-as-chivalry. He actually respects Quynn and Hayley as people. When he said that he has no claim on Quynn and their relationship prior to the book gives him no claim, I actually wanted to cheer. (Or, as my brain thought, “Did he just obliterate the nice guy argument?”) Brody’s not perfect, and he does screw-up frequently, but the fact that he was conscious of the screw-ups and tried to make things better made me love him even more.
And Brody and Hayley’s relationship in all. I have to admit, when I first started reading this, I thought that this was going to be mostly about Brody desperately trying to win over Quynn before realizing in the last third that he’s in love with Hayley. (I think this says more about my expectations in YA.) Nope. The romance is between Brody and Hayley. There’s some waffling early on, but once Brody realizes his real feelings, it’s all about Hayley. Even their first time together is handled admirably, with Hayley seducing Brody and the two gleefully leaping into bed.
If there’s anything I really wanted more of, I wanted to get a better idea of what Brody’s other relationships were like. I liked that he wanted to be on friendly terms with Quynn (again, no nice guy bs!); and I really liked Brody’s relationship with his parents. (Tangent, I had to do a fist-pump when Brody clarifies that his step-dad is his real dad, and that his biological dad did nothing for him. Yes.) But I wanted to get more of Brody’s friends, especially since Brody keeping his relationship with Hayley quiet is a big part of the climax. That whole plot point could have worked a lot better if we had gotten more with Tanner and Brody.
The plot is standard YA fluff, but what Becca Ann did with these characters makes it more interesting than any other YA romcom that I’ve come across. Brody alone gets all of my points, but making Hayley into a real character who can be seen as a role model earns major respect in my book. There’s a positive and endearing message not just for girls, but for boys as well. This is a definite recommend.
For teenage girls, it’s worse. Not only do we have to deal with the relentless onslaught that is high school—which does wonders for confidence, let me tell you—but we have no one to look up to. When I was in school, I didn’t have any chubby role models, much less anyone who could be considered “fat” but still seen as a sex object. For a while, there was Jordin Sparks, but even she lost weight. The fat girl cannot be a sexualized object, and should she even dare think of sex, she must be ridiculed for it.
We need more books like this one.
There is no magical weight-loss makeover here. No impossible standards by which the heroine is considered fat. No chubby-chasing, despite what Brody’s brother thinks. And Hayley isn’t ridiculed for attempting to be sexy.
Why didn’t I have a book like this when I was sixteen?
Hayley is one of the more realistic heroines I’ve come across in a long time. She’s insecure about her weight and how boys see her, but she has a wicked sense of humor that she utilizes. (I loved when she rates her body, noting “Well, the good thing is I have a rack.”) Yes, in most other books, whenever Hayley turns down Brody, it could have been “You idiot, can’t you see he loves you!” But it’s not here, because we see why Hayley’s so insecure about boys liking her and what they really want her for. The fact that Brody has fallen for Hayley is unbelievable for her because she’s been told (directly and indirectly) that she’ll never be good enough for any passable guy. Even when Brody does act like an idiot and doesn’t tell anyone about their relationship, it felt more true here when Hayley gets upset because she does have a reason for having that reaction. If anything, I would have liked to gotten more with her mother, maybe to flesh out Hayley’s insecurities more. But I do really like her. I also like that while she’s fat, Hayley’s friendly with everyone and isn’t treated like a member of the lower caste. And even though it’s not dwelt on, her body is brought up in text, not only through Brody’s sex filter, but also in minor scenes, like when she gets her tattoo. I also love that she’s able to fall naturally into conversations with Brody; it gives the two a lot of chemistry and really sets up their relationship.
The other thing I absolutely love about this book is Brody. On a writing standpoint, it is really hard to write the opposite sex and pull it off well. Brody’s voice was extremely strong and he did feel like a genuine teenage boy, with the constant acknowledgements of “Oh, God, I’m checking her out, aren’t I?” Yet despite being a horny teenage boy, Brody earns my undying love in that he is respectful toward women. Not “big man help puny women-folk”-masked-as-chivalry. He actually respects Quynn and Hayley as people. When he said that he has no claim on Quynn and their relationship prior to the book gives him no claim, I actually wanted to cheer. (Or, as my brain thought, “Did he just obliterate the nice guy argument?”) Brody’s not perfect, and he does screw-up frequently, but the fact that he was conscious of the screw-ups and tried to make things better made me love him even more.
And Brody and Hayley’s relationship in all. I have to admit, when I first started reading this, I thought that this was going to be mostly about Brody desperately trying to win over Quynn before realizing in the last third that he’s in love with Hayley. (I think this says more about my expectations in YA.) Nope. The romance is between Brody and Hayley. There’s some waffling early on, but once Brody realizes his real feelings, it’s all about Hayley. Even their first time together is handled admirably, with Hayley seducing Brody and the two gleefully leaping into bed.
If there’s anything I really wanted more of, I wanted to get a better idea of what Brody’s other relationships were like. I liked that he wanted to be on friendly terms with Quynn (again, no nice guy bs!); and I really liked Brody’s relationship with his parents. (Tangent, I had to do a fist-pump when Brody clarifies that his step-dad is his real dad, and that his biological dad did nothing for him. Yes.) But I wanted to get more of Brody’s friends, especially since Brody keeping his relationship with Hayley quiet is a big part of the climax. That whole plot point could have worked a lot better if we had gotten more with Tanner and Brody.
The plot is standard YA fluff, but what Becca Ann did with these characters makes it more interesting than any other YA romcom that I’ve come across. Brody alone gets all of my points, but making Hayley into a real character who can be seen as a role model earns major respect in my book. There’s a positive and endearing message not just for girls, but for boys as well. This is a definite recommend.
March 3, 2017
Me caen muy bien los dos protagonistas, Brody es un amor y me gusta cómo se construye la relación entre ellos. Me ha parecido un YA muy recomendable para adolescentes.
January 11, 2013
Can I rate this like 100 1/2 stars? That's what it deserves. Hell, I'd give it 200 1/2 stars if I could.
This is a phenomenally honest and funny and romantic and, yes, sexy read. Did I mention the funny? It is hilarious. It contains one of the best descriptions of a first kiss I've ever read (and you guys know how many kisses I read weekly. I have to be some kind of expert on reading kisses by now, right?)
Brody and Hayley are so exquisitely true and written so well that I swear they jump off the page and into your heart within the first twenty paragraphs. Very seldom do any books other than my beloved Betty Neels' romances make my heart clutch but Becca Ann did it, and, man, am I ever grateful.
Sigh and swoon and love and all that mushy stuff about this book. Seriously.
Highly, highly recommend.
This is a phenomenally honest and funny and romantic and, yes, sexy read. Did I mention the funny? It is hilarious. It contains one of the best descriptions of a first kiss I've ever read (and you guys know how many kisses I read weekly. I have to be some kind of expert on reading kisses by now, right?)
Brody and Hayley are so exquisitely true and written so well that I swear they jump off the page and into your heart within the first twenty paragraphs. Very seldom do any books other than my beloved Betty Neels' romances make my heart clutch but Becca Ann did it, and, man, am I ever grateful.
Sigh and swoon and love and all that mushy stuff about this book. Seriously.
Highly, highly recommend.
April 15, 2013
If I weren't so stingy with 5 stars, this book would get them all. It was a quick enjoyable read. In fact, at some point I just didn't stop reading until done. Though it was a love story set in high school, the characters were mature enough to be enjoyable to me.
UPDATE: I originally gave this book four stars. I thoroughly enjoyed it, but didn't think I'd ever read it again. Then, just a few months after reading it for the first time, I picked it up again as something, fun, quick, and light to read. And now, I do see myself reading it again and again in the future. You win, Reasons. Five stars it is.
UPDATE: I originally gave this book four stars. I thoroughly enjoyed it, but didn't think I'd ever read it again. Then, just a few months after reading it for the first time, I picked it up again as something, fun, quick, and light to read. And now, I do see myself reading it again and again in the future. You win, Reasons. Five stars it is.
August 14, 2017
Yes! Now this is how you do a YA book! Brody and Hayley were such loveable characters who were both working through their own insecurities while trying to get a handle on turning their friendship into a romantic relationship. It was so cute and so fun and no crazy over the top teenage drama.
5 Stars
Contemporary Young Adult Romance
Single POV: Hero
Heat Level: Mild
HEA
5 Stars
Contemporary Young Adult Romance
Single POV: Hero
Heat Level: Mild
HEA
April 1, 2014
Re-read 30th-31st March & loved it just as much!! Couldn't put it down even though I knew what was going to happen!!! Helped me out of my book funk :D
I LOVED this book.
D'ya know the way sometimes you finish a book and it makes you feel all gooey inside & grinning like an idiot and all swoony & shit???? Well this is how I felt when I finished this gorgeous, sweet uplifting story.
I loved Brody...though it took me a couple of pages to get into his head & speech but once I was in I just couldn't let go & totally pulled an all nighter! Ah its been a while since I did that and I loved that this story could make me wanna do it.
Hayles was a great girl and I could totally relate to her. I could understand her reluctance to believe a gorgeous guy could want her like that, especially when she knew how he felt about Quynn.
This very much YA even though the characters are 17/18 and is very much fade to black when it comes to sexy times but that's not what I was reading this story for or what this story is about.
It is about believing that there are some truly good & sweet guys out there and you are always truly beautiful & perfect to someone. I'm lucky that I have that someone & hopefully you are too :)
If you liked
or
than you will definitely like this and if you know of any other books like this I would love to hear you rec's :D
I LOVED this book.
D'ya know the way sometimes you finish a book and it makes you feel all gooey inside & grinning like an idiot and all swoony & shit???? Well this is how I felt when I finished this gorgeous, sweet uplifting story.
I loved Brody...though it took me a couple of pages to get into his head & speech but once I was in I just couldn't let go & totally pulled an all nighter! Ah its been a while since I did that and I loved that this story could make me wanna do it.
Hayles was a great girl and I could totally relate to her. I could understand her reluctance to believe a gorgeous guy could want her like that, especially when she knew how he felt about Quynn.
This very much YA even though the characters are 17/18 and is very much fade to black when it comes to sexy times but that's not what I was reading this story for or what this story is about.
It is about believing that there are some truly good & sweet guys out there and you are always truly beautiful & perfect to someone. I'm lucky that I have that someone & hopefully you are too :)
If you liked
or
than you will definitely like this and if you know of any other books like this I would love to hear you rec's :D
August 17, 2016
Esto es probablemente justo lo que más necesitaba.
Es un libro ligero, dulce, tierno,sutil.
Está lleno de diálogos chispeantes y situaciones que no hacían mas que ponerme una gran sonrisa en la cara. Así que si me preguntan mis razones para leer este libro les daré estas tres:
1. Es súperformidable (guiño a la autora por las nuevas palabras ;) haha)
2. Amo el desarrollo de ambos protagonistas
3. Te diviertes y amas cada una de las razones de Brody.
Quizás no es el mejor libro de mi vida pero sinceramente, lo necesitaba, es entretenido y de esos que te dejan sonriendo como tonta.
Es un libro ligero, dulce, tierno,sutil.
Está lleno de diálogos chispeantes y situaciones que no hacían mas que ponerme una gran sonrisa en la cara. Así que si me preguntan mis razones para leer este libro les daré estas tres:
1. Es súperformidable (guiño a la autora por las nuevas palabras ;) haha)
2. Amo el desarrollo de ambos protagonistas
3. Te diviertes y amas cada una de las razones de Brody.
Quizás no es el mejor libro de mi vida pero sinceramente, lo necesitaba, es entretenido y de esos que te dejan sonriendo como tonta.
February 9, 2013
4-4.5 stars
This book it's just lovely. Now i need a boy like Brody for myself :(
This book it's just lovely. Now i need a boy like Brody for myself :(
November 21, 2016
Ligera, justo lo que buscaba para relajar mi mente. Una bonita historia entre bromas, lenguaje de señas y romance juvenil.
January 30, 2013
This really was the sweetest thing.
This is the story of Brody and Hayley.
It was actually a breath of fresh air to read a easy, sweet, clean YA. Don’t get me wrong there are issues that are covered in here but not in details. I’ll tell you more about that later.
THE STORY
Brody is not a man-whore *GASP* I know right?! He is kinda shy, and not all the experienced with girls.
He is actually pining over his brothers ex-girlfriend.
Hayley refers to herself as the FFF – The Funny Fat Friend.
Guys like her because she is funny and kinda quirky, they only get close to her so she can set them up with her friends.
It’s what she does.
Brody and Hayley are paired together in their ASL class.
Hayley soon figures out that Brody has the hots for Quynn and suggests that she can help him win her over.
They start spending a lot of time together and Brody starts to realise how awesome she is. She makes awkward situations less awkward, has a great sense of humour and he really likes hanging with her.
The more her tips on how to win Quynn over start to work, the less he actually wants them too.
All he has to do now is convince Hayley that she is actually the one he wants and that she is not the FFF to him.
My Honest Opinion
Written entirely in Brody’s POV.
I love when I read YA and get inside a boys head. All the awkward “boner” moments and how they constantly think about sex always makes me giggle.
This was spot on as well.
I do need to point out at the start of reading this they seemed a bit immature and no real mention of their age. Turns out they were 18. The more I read on the more mature they seemed to be.
We don’t get a description of them, and exactly how “fat” Hayley is.
Their first kiss was waaayy to sweet and yes there is a sex scene but it is behind closed doors.
Hayley’s Mum is embarrassed of her being fat., and actually won’t allow her to meet her new boyfriend Tim until she has lost weight. I was sooooo mad at the part! Brody being her prince in shining armour that he is, swooped in and saved the day.
This is the issue that was kinda swept under the rug.
And that did annoy me.
Brody’s reason for falling for her, are at the start
But other than that. A really enjoyable read.
Best part?!
THE HEA
Yep no CLIFFHANGER!
May 8, 2013
Freakin' Amazeballs! What a fun read… from start to finish!
First off, boy do I LOVE that it’s from the guy’s POV…the whole book!! As much as I love Hayley’s character I was a smitten kitten with Brody and I was over the moon it was from his POV. It also helped that the guy is funny and has a bunch of random and super adorable –and embarrassing - thoughts we’re privy to. Before I go on and on about Brody, let’s not forget that this book has an awesome heroine. She’s smart, fun, has a great personality, cute, vivacious, and yes she’s curvy and maybe possibly fat – depending on your standards. So yea, she has self-esteem issues brought on by a terrible mother and also by being steam-rolled by guy friends who just wanted to use her as a matchmaker with her skinny friends. So she has kind of shielded her heart and it’s all totally understandable. Though we do get to the point where we want her to open up when something good and true comes along – in the form of a high school, all around good guy stud – Brody Grant.
To be fair, Brody isn’t perfect.. and I like that he isn’t. He does (for a while) go back and forth between Hayley (the girl he sees as beautiful inside and out) and Quynn (the girl who everyone sees as beautiful and who he’s been crushing on for years) – but what 18 year old wouldn’t want a Quynn for a girlfriend? – especially since Quynn is actually a nice person as well as being pretty.
A couple things I was surprised by. Well, no matter, maybe these are part of the reason why I liked the book so much..less angst that way.
Less than 24 hours of finishing and I already want to re-read!
First off, boy do I LOVE that it’s from the guy’s POV…the whole book!! As much as I love Hayley’s character I was a smitten kitten with Brody and I was over the moon it was from his POV. It also helped that the guy is funny and has a bunch of random and super adorable –and embarrassing - thoughts we’re privy to. Before I go on and on about Brody, let’s not forget that this book has an awesome heroine. She’s smart, fun, has a great personality, cute, vivacious, and yes she’s curvy and maybe possibly fat – depending on your standards. So yea, she has self-esteem issues brought on by a terrible mother and also by being steam-rolled by guy friends who just wanted to use her as a matchmaker with her skinny friends. So she has kind of shielded her heart and it’s all totally understandable. Though we do get to the point where we want her to open up when something good and true comes along – in the form of a high school, all around good guy stud – Brody Grant.
To be fair, Brody isn’t perfect.. and I like that he isn’t. He does (for a while) go back and forth between Hayley (the girl he sees as beautiful inside and out) and Quynn (the girl who everyone sees as beautiful and who he’s been crushing on for years) – but what 18 year old wouldn’t want a Quynn for a girlfriend? – especially since Quynn is actually a nice person as well as being pretty.
A couple things I was surprised by. Well, no matter, maybe these are part of the reason why I liked the book so much..less angst that way.
Less than 24 hours of finishing and I already want to re-read!
July 30, 2014
0 Star. DNF. 11% in to this book & I'm sorry I'm dumping it.
Dyin'
askin'
bein'
goin'
'cause
showin'
somethin'
keepin'
stoppin'
parkin'
laughin'
D'ya
walkin'
betcha
Ya know
Gangster talk for no rhyme no reason out of a normal guy's mouth is weird.
OHK!! How old is he again? Because he's talking about going through puberty.. that happens when we are 12-13 how much I remember.
And his brother lives alone, and the ex is in his class... :S AND how much I caught on, the ex lived with the brother..
This guy seriously needs to stop taking this way! Weird ass.
Even the chick seems weird.. they both keep giggling for no reason :S
and he says a lot of 'DUDE'.
She giggles. “You didn’t get my book, so you’re off the hook… this time.” She pauses. “Hey, that kind of rhymed! Oh, that did too! ‘Rhyme’ and ‘time’. Ha! I’m on a roll.” !? :S
The book started out of no where, and for some odd reason they were in a signing class
No description about the characters, no plot, and no character's past story.
I seriously haven't dumped more than 8-10 books EVER.. this seems to fall into that count. I usually finish books I hate too.. but this? PLAIN IRRITATING and I was ONLY 11% in!
Dyin'
askin'
bein'
goin'
'cause
showin'
somethin'
keepin'
stoppin'
parkin'
laughin'
D'ya
walkin'
betcha
Ya know
Gangster talk for no rhyme no reason out of a normal guy's mouth is weird.
OHK!! How old is he again? Because he's talking about going through puberty.. that happens when we are 12-13 how much I remember.
And his brother lives alone, and the ex is in his class... :S AND how much I caught on, the ex lived with the brother..
This guy seriously needs to stop taking this way! Weird ass.
Even the chick seems weird.. they both keep giggling for no reason :S
and he says a lot of 'DUDE'.
She giggles. “You didn’t get my book, so you’re off the hook… this time.” She pauses. “Hey, that kind of rhymed! Oh, that did too! ‘Rhyme’ and ‘time’. Ha! I’m on a roll.” !? :S
The book started out of no where, and for some odd reason they were in a signing class
No description about the characters, no plot, and no character's past story.
I seriously haven't dumped more than 8-10 books EVER.. this seems to fall into that count. I usually finish books I hate too.. but this? PLAIN IRRITATING and I was ONLY 11% in!
December 28, 2012
This is one of those books you read and go, THANK YOU, for finally writing something like this. Brody is sweet and sensitive but still such a boy. Which is why I love him so much. And Hayley had me dying laughing through the whole book. This is one of those fun reads that will have you falling in love with these characters. And so happy that real romance still exists.
January 15, 2013
I really liked the story in this book. The characters are likeable, and I can relate to Hayley. Although, I'm more like the 'shy fat friend' rather than the funny one. The author does a great job of showing how girls who aren't a size two really feel, why they feel that way, and how hard it is to convince them that they are more than that.
I like the way the chapter headings are listed as the reasons that are alluded to in the title of the book, and how those reasons tie into the end of the story. I thought that was pretty clever.
However, I don't particularly care for how the book was written. There are very few descriptive references in this book. Nothing to assist you in visualizing the story. We know very little about what the characters actually look like. We know that Hayley 'isn't skinny, but isn't fat' and that she has green eyes, that Brody has a six-pack, and that Quynn is slim and beautiful. That's pretty much all the description we get. You have to get halfway through the story before you even find out how old they are. I mean, you know they're in high school, but there's quite a difference between a freshman and a senior in high school. There is absolutely no reference anywhere that describes their environment, assisting you in creating a picture in your mind. It is all left up to the reader with very little assistance from the author.
The flow of the book, to me, seems very choppy. I think the longest paragraph in the whole book has maybe three sentences in it. I'm sure this is largely due to the lack of description I mentioned above. The book reads, basically, as one long conversation. Whether it's conversation between Brody and Hayley, or Brody's thoughts to himself, that's pretty much all it is.
And I agree with a previous review that the book seems only to graze the surface of some very deep issues and ideas that could have been further explored. While I understand that the point was to keep the story light and fun, I had hoped for a little more depth.
This book contains a lot of swearing, starting out pretty heavily and tapering off as you near the end. It also uses a lot of sexually provoked language and includes a fairly descriptive make-out scene. I realize that these things aren't an issue for many people, but I think they should be pointed out to anyone considering reading it, so they know what they're in for if they do. This book is written for a young adult audience and takes place in high school, but it's not something I would be comfortable with my high school age children reading.
Overall, it's a cute and fun story, but I just don't think it was written very well, and it's a little too vulgar for my taste.
I like the way the chapter headings are listed as the reasons that are alluded to in the title of the book, and how those reasons tie into the end of the story. I thought that was pretty clever.
However, I don't particularly care for how the book was written. There are very few descriptive references in this book. Nothing to assist you in visualizing the story. We know very little about what the characters actually look like. We know that Hayley 'isn't skinny, but isn't fat' and that she has green eyes, that Brody has a six-pack, and that Quynn is slim and beautiful. That's pretty much all the description we get. You have to get halfway through the story before you even find out how old they are. I mean, you know they're in high school, but there's quite a difference between a freshman and a senior in high school. There is absolutely no reference anywhere that describes their environment, assisting you in creating a picture in your mind. It is all left up to the reader with very little assistance from the author.
The flow of the book, to me, seems very choppy. I think the longest paragraph in the whole book has maybe three sentences in it. I'm sure this is largely due to the lack of description I mentioned above. The book reads, basically, as one long conversation. Whether it's conversation between Brody and Hayley, or Brody's thoughts to himself, that's pretty much all it is.
And I agree with a previous review that the book seems only to graze the surface of some very deep issues and ideas that could have been further explored. While I understand that the point was to keep the story light and fun, I had hoped for a little more depth.
This book contains a lot of swearing, starting out pretty heavily and tapering off as you near the end. It also uses a lot of sexually provoked language and includes a fairly descriptive make-out scene. I realize that these things aren't an issue for many people, but I think they should be pointed out to anyone considering reading it, so they know what they're in for if they do. This book is written for a young adult audience and takes place in high school, but it's not something I would be comfortable with my high school age children reading.
Overall, it's a cute and fun story, but I just don't think it was written very well, and it's a little too vulgar for my taste.
February 17, 2013
I think it's happened to all of us. You see a book the Amazon recommendation carousel, the cover snags your eye, the title snags your attention, the synopsis looks good, and, what the hell, it's only $3 so why not?
Then you read it and you groan...knowing suddenly why.
Every now and then, though, you get one like Reasons. You can't put it down, you hate the 'falling asleep' feeling and fight to stay awake so you can keep reading, first thing you do on Sunday morning after checking email is coffee, Kindle, and the next thing you know you've lost three hours.
That's what happened for me with this book. I've spent, literally, all morning reading because I needed to get to the next reason.
For the purists out there, let me add a small codicil. This is not A Deep Meaningful Read. This isn't a Groundbreaking Emotional Study. This is a boy's story of how he fell in love. It's his story, it's told entirely in his voice, and with all the good and stupid boy thoughts mixed in.
Yes, I'm still laughing at him calling his room the "ass room" because it smells like ass. Mostly because this is what my 19 year old and I both call his. And it does. I should own stock in Febreeze by this point.
Back to the story. This beautiful, touching, funny story. I loved the way it was laid out. Because of the title, you expect the chapter titles - but when you finally find out the reason, they mean so much more. Especially when they finally come out in the story itself. One of my favorite scenes.
I loved that the characters weren't perfect - they made mistakes, made me want to reach into the pages and shake some sense in to them. I also loved that not everything was explained out (like Hayley's aversion to swearing) because that wasn't what was important to Brody. The why didn't matter, just that she had that aversion and he tried to stop. It's one of those things you suspect will be discussed later, or off screen if you prefer, but not a vital-to-the-story thing.
All in all, I got just what I wanted from this book - a pleasant surprise, a lovely story (and if we're honest, a written out fantasy for all the not-cute-and-skinny high school girls like me who were always playing wingman to their guy friends because they knew there wasn't any way the hot guy would ever be into them and covered that up with laughter.)
Then you read it and you groan...knowing suddenly why.
Every now and then, though, you get one like Reasons. You can't put it down, you hate the 'falling asleep' feeling and fight to stay awake so you can keep reading, first thing you do on Sunday morning after checking email is coffee, Kindle, and the next thing you know you've lost three hours.
That's what happened for me with this book. I've spent, literally, all morning reading because I needed to get to the next reason.
For the purists out there, let me add a small codicil. This is not A Deep Meaningful Read. This isn't a Groundbreaking Emotional Study. This is a boy's story of how he fell in love. It's his story, it's told entirely in his voice, and with all the good and stupid boy thoughts mixed in.
Yes, I'm still laughing at him calling his room the "ass room" because it smells like ass. Mostly because this is what my 19 year old and I both call his. And it does. I should own stock in Febreeze by this point.
Back to the story. This beautiful, touching, funny story. I loved the way it was laid out. Because of the title, you expect the chapter titles - but when you finally find out the reason, they mean so much more. Especially when they finally come out in the story itself. One of my favorite scenes.
I loved that the characters weren't perfect - they made mistakes, made me want to reach into the pages and shake some sense in to them. I also loved that not everything was explained out (like Hayley's aversion to swearing) because that wasn't what was important to Brody. The why didn't matter, just that she had that aversion and he tried to stop. It's one of those things you suspect will be discussed later, or off screen if you prefer, but not a vital-to-the-story thing.
All in all, I got just what I wanted from this book - a pleasant surprise, a lovely story (and if we're honest, a written out fantasy for all the not-cute-and-skinny high school girls like me who were always playing wingman to their guy friends because they knew there wasn't any way the hot guy would ever be into them and covered that up with laughter.)
September 16, 2014
Sweetest. Book. Ever
I enjoyed it so much and I’m pretty surprised because I did not expect it.
It’s a lovely story and I love Brody and Hayley, and they are a perfect couple.
Brody is a very special boy. He’s funny, shy (and that’s freaking cute) and such a boy with all this hormones! He’s hot and doesn’t care about it (how cute!)… He’s just lovely and cute (clearly :D). I really like him because he’s a very normal teenager and not a player like all the other boys in YA books.
And Hayley… OMG, she’s amazing! She’s a bizarre, weird and totally cute girl who has a hard time because she’s not skinny like other girls. She has an explosive personality and that becomes her in a very interesting character.
At the beginning the story was a little bit immature, but later just going well, with dialogues super funny and a touch of drama necessary. I really liked how Brody discover chapter after chapter why he’s falling for Hayley and forgetting about Quynn!
It’s very predictable and I saw that coming… but not for this less enjoyable. It’s a very simple story, with a great plot, wonderful characters and a couple of sappy moments that I really enjoyed.
I enjoyed it so much and I’m pretty surprised because I did not expect it.
It’s a lovely story and I love Brody and Hayley, and they are a perfect couple.
Brody is a very special boy. He’s funny, shy (and that’s freaking cute) and such a boy with all this hormones! He’s hot and doesn’t care about it (how cute!)… He’s just lovely and cute (clearly :D). I really like him because he’s a very normal teenager and not a player like all the other boys in YA books.
And Hayley… OMG, she’s amazing! She’s a bizarre, weird and totally cute girl who has a hard time because she’s not skinny like other girls. She has an explosive personality and that becomes her in a very interesting character.
At the beginning the story was a little bit immature, but later just going well, with dialogues super funny and a touch of drama necessary. I really liked how Brody discover chapter after chapter why he’s falling for Hayley and forgetting about Quynn!
It’s very predictable and I saw that coming… but not for this less enjoyable. It’s a very simple story, with a great plot, wonderful characters and a couple of sappy moments that I really enjoyed.
June 14, 2013
JUNE 14, 2013
Just finished the book... and it was just so damn SWEET!! :-)
There were parts of it where I was just thinking to myself:
I love the ending... It just made me go all, "Awwwww...".
And I determined that for them:
Should you read this book? Yes! Would an older age group enjoy it? I think so... it reminded me of when I was in middle school/high school. I think it applies to any time period! VERY good book! :-)
JUNE 12, 2013
Awwww... this book is just so:
And it just is so cute when he goes and:
Just finished the book... and it was just so damn SWEET!! :-)
There were parts of it where I was just thinking to myself:
I love the ending... It just made me go all, "Awwwww...".
And I determined that for them:
Should you read this book? Yes! Would an older age group enjoy it? I think so... it reminded me of when I was in middle school/high school. I think it applies to any time period! VERY good book! :-)
JUNE 12, 2013
Awwww... this book is just so:
And it just is so cute when he goes and:
April 4, 2013
When I was a girl, reading gave me more than just pleasure. It helped me feel not so alone, gave me a sense of the world as a bigger place than my small southern town.
I grew up to write young adult fiction, so I could pass on that gift. Kids have it hard - they deal with a lot - and it's nice to think writing can help them feel like they are part of something greater, like they are more than what their peers or their parents say they are.
This book does that. It provides hope that, despite the whacked-out body image one girl has, someone will love her for who she is. Someone will.
This book made me "bark" with laughter. And it made me cry. And it made me want to wrap the author in a hug and tell her thank you. Because she's going to make a difference in someone's life. Her words will heal someone, will give them courage. And that, my friends, is awesomesauce.
I grew up to write young adult fiction, so I could pass on that gift. Kids have it hard - they deal with a lot - and it's nice to think writing can help them feel like they are part of something greater, like they are more than what their peers or their parents say they are.
This book does that. It provides hope that, despite the whacked-out body image one girl has, someone will love her for who she is. Someone will.
This book made me "bark" with laughter. And it made me cry. And it made me want to wrap the author in a hug and tell her thank you. Because she's going to make a difference in someone's life. Her words will heal someone, will give them courage. And that, my friends, is awesomesauce.
July 28, 2013
1. Awesomesauce!
2. Things that rhyme with fart!
3. Mad texting skills!
4. Nobody does gangsta like you
5. I envy your lingo.
6. I question your taste buds.
7. Long live the drama queen.
8. Girl has moves you haven't seen yet.
9. Breaking the sexiness scale.
10. FHF
11. He'll throw down against blood for you girl!
12. Together under the needle.
13. Oozing the gooey crap
14. Don't trust a girl who cheats! ( it's not what you think )
15. Smokey eyed
16. Finally! The list and the KISS!!!!
2. Things that rhyme with fart!
3. Mad texting skills!
4. Nobody does gangsta like you
5. I envy your lingo.
6. I question your taste buds.
7. Long live the drama queen.
8. Girl has moves you haven't seen yet.
9. Breaking the sexiness scale.
10. FHF
11. He'll throw down against blood for you girl!
12. Together under the needle.
13. Oozing the gooey crap
14. Don't trust a girl who cheats! ( it's not what you think )
15. Smokey eyed
16. Finally! The list and the KISS!!!!
December 30, 2012
Ohh, I know a book is brilliant when I have so many thoughts, they refuse to form an orderly queue so I can write them down sensibly! But I'll give it a try!
Reasons I Fell In Love With This Book:
1. The characters ROCK! Becca Ann makes writing boy POV look like the easiest thing in the world (and it's really not!)
2. Hayley is someone everyone can relate to. She represents the insecure girl that lives in every female, young or old.
3. There is no let up in the action. Those parts of a book where your eyes begin to glaze over because you just want things to move on already do not exist here.
4. It's really funny - and Hayley's comments are fabulously random. I laughed out loud many times!
5. It has real, genuine romance that isn't forced. It all flows so beautifully, you can't help but be swept along with it.
6. Becca Ann is simply a very talented lady, and I am absolutely positive that the world will fall in love with her words as much as I did!
Reasons I Fell In Love With This Book:
1. The characters ROCK! Becca Ann makes writing boy POV look like the easiest thing in the world (and it's really not!)
2. Hayley is someone everyone can relate to. She represents the insecure girl that lives in every female, young or old.
3. There is no let up in the action. Those parts of a book where your eyes begin to glaze over because you just want things to move on already do not exist here.
4. It's really funny - and Hayley's comments are fabulously random. I laughed out loud many times!
5. It has real, genuine romance that isn't forced. It all flows so beautifully, you can't help but be swept along with it.
6. Becca Ann is simply a very talented lady, and I am absolutely positive that the world will fall in love with her words as much as I did!
March 16, 2018
I rarely read YA books, since I prefer NA and adult novels, but this one was so cute! It's a short, light and funny book that can be easily read in one sitting.
Brody is the perfect guy, not only handsome on the outside, but also sweet, protective and considerate. And Hailey is so funny and easygoing that it's impossible not to love her.
I felt very sorry for her because I know what it's like when people judge you superficially by your appearance and when even the ones that are closer to you, don't accept you for who you truly are. I loathed Hayley's mom and she should have been the one left outside in the rain!
The thing I adored the most about this lighthearted and playful novel, is its positive message. We should love and accept ourselves and others no matter how we look like, 'cause we're way more than that.
Brody is the perfect guy, not only handsome on the outside, but also sweet, protective and considerate. And Hailey is so funny and easygoing that it's impossible not to love her.
I felt very sorry for her because I know what it's like when people judge you superficially by your appearance and when even the ones that are closer to you, don't accept you for who you truly are. I loathed Hayley's mom and she should have been the one left outside in the rain!
The thing I adored the most about this lighthearted and playful novel, is its positive message. We should love and accept ourselves and others no matter how we look like, 'cause we're way more than that.
May 30, 2013
I mean, come on....Look at the title of this book. It's perfect. And the book is so darn cute. Darn because Brody can't swear next to Hayley, she doesn't like that ;)
I mean I instantly related to the title, because...well... I was the funny fat friend. Ok. Maybe not funny, but from my group of friends I was the fat one, or the "less beautiful" ( ugly is a harsh word). You know, that girl that is friends with the girls and their boyfriends or dates but never actually has a date? That was me! Still am if you think about it, but let's not dwell.
The point is. This book was such a great read for me. I instantly related to Hayley and the way she feels about herself, OMG it was just so me. And Brody falling in love with her has to be the cutest thing in the world. And she never believes him because she doesn't think she's good enough(read thin enough) for a guy who has a six pack, so he's like, stepping on eggshells around her while thinking she's the sexiest person he's ever seen and wanting to be with her badly, and it's so cool and funny and awesome that I read the book in a few hours. There is a point in the book that she tells him to write her a list of reasons of why he's into her. AND THOSE ARE THE NAMES OF THE CHAPTERS! And the reasons are just so cool. Like: Reason 1: You know how to sign the word "balls", Reason 3: You know how to make awkward less awkward, Reason 4: it's easy with you, Reason 5: you know how to make a guy feel pretty good about himself. They get better, but I don't want to spoil things for you guys. You should read it. Hayley is cool, and Brody is cool, and the book is sooooo cool! I loved it.
I have some add ons, because well, i kind of wrote two reviews for this book:
Reasons I fell for the book “Reasons I fell for the funny fat friend” by Becca Ann
Reason 1: The name of the book makes you instantly want to read it.
Reason 2: I could totally relate to Hayley because I feel like I am/was the funny fat friend in my group of friends.
Reason 3: Hayley’s insecurities matched my own.
Reason 4: It is told from the boy’s perspective and that is one of the things that make this book so amazing.
Reason 5: Hayley is awesomesauce .
Reason 6: Brody is obviously a hot guy, but he doesn’t seem to notice or care much about it.
Reason 7: Brody behaves like the perfect gentleman even if his thoughts aren’t always so gentlemanlike.
Reason 8: Brody has a six pack. A freaking six pack.
Reason 9: The friendship between Brody and Hayley and their scenes together are just so darn cute.
Reason 10: They are always laughing and smiling when they are together, and that makes us laugh and smile and wish for a relationship like that.
Reason 11: Brody never once thinks that Hayley is fat, he loves her for who she is and for the things that make her Hayley. He loves her inside and out, and she becomes the most beautiful girl in the world to him.
Reason 12: Every time Brody calls her Hayles my insides melt.
Reason 13: Brody stalking Hayley, turning psycho and behaving like a girl every time his phone rang.
Reason 14: The characters feel so real and I was able to connect to them 100%
Reason 15: When they get together, they really get together, and in return you get some HOT kissing scenes. Then, of course, you read them over and over again because well…THEY ARE HOT.
Reason 16: I was laughing, smiling and going “oh my god they are so cute” throughout the whole book.
Reason 17: When I was obsessing about the Les Miserables song that Hayley sings in one of my favorite scenes from the book, the author took the time of her day to tell me which one she was thinking about when she wrote it.
Reason 18: Now I can’t listen to “On my Own” without smiling and thinking about Hayley and Brody
Reason 19: How I just have to buy the physical copy of the book because I read on the digital one.
Reason 20: The book gives hope to all the FFF’s out there who are waiting for a guy like Brody.
Reason 21: The names of the chapters are so creative and funny.
Reason 22: You want to keep reading because you just need to know what the next reason will be.
Reason 23: You feel like rereading your favorite parts immediately after finishing the book.
Reason 24: The more you read it (or reread it), the more you fall in love with the characters.
Reason 25: I can’t get this book out of my mind.
Reason 26: I want to show the world just how incredible this book is.
Reason 27: The book is extremely funny and clever and fluffy and the romance is one that I will NOT easily forget.
Epilogue: I really wish they would translate this book to Portuguese already so I could give it as a present to everyone. Later, after they finish and tell me it is awesome I will be able to say “I told you so.”
By Greice Marques
I mean I instantly related to the title, because...well... I was the funny fat friend. Ok. Maybe not funny, but from my group of friends I was the fat one, or the "less beautiful" ( ugly is a harsh word). You know, that girl that is friends with the girls and their boyfriends or dates but never actually has a date? That was me! Still am if you think about it, but let's not dwell.
The point is. This book was such a great read for me. I instantly related to Hayley and the way she feels about herself, OMG it was just so me. And Brody falling in love with her has to be the cutest thing in the world. And she never believes him because she doesn't think she's good enough(read thin enough) for a guy who has a six pack, so he's like, stepping on eggshells around her while thinking she's the sexiest person he's ever seen and wanting to be with her badly, and it's so cool and funny and awesome that I read the book in a few hours. There is a point in the book that she tells him to write her a list of reasons of why he's into her. AND THOSE ARE THE NAMES OF THE CHAPTERS! And the reasons are just so cool. Like: Reason 1: You know how to sign the word "balls", Reason 3: You know how to make awkward less awkward, Reason 4: it's easy with you, Reason 5: you know how to make a guy feel pretty good about himself. They get better, but I don't want to spoil things for you guys. You should read it. Hayley is cool, and Brody is cool, and the book is sooooo cool! I loved it.
I have some add ons, because well, i kind of wrote two reviews for this book:
Reasons I fell for the book “Reasons I fell for the funny fat friend” by Becca Ann
Reason 1: The name of the book makes you instantly want to read it.
Reason 2: I could totally relate to Hayley because I feel like I am/was the funny fat friend in my group of friends.
Reason 3: Hayley’s insecurities matched my own.
Reason 4: It is told from the boy’s perspective and that is one of the things that make this book so amazing.
Reason 5: Hayley is awesomesauce .
Reason 6: Brody is obviously a hot guy, but he doesn’t seem to notice or care much about it.
Reason 7: Brody behaves like the perfect gentleman even if his thoughts aren’t always so gentlemanlike.
Reason 8: Brody has a six pack. A freaking six pack.
Reason 9: The friendship between Brody and Hayley and their scenes together are just so darn cute.
Reason 10: They are always laughing and smiling when they are together, and that makes us laugh and smile and wish for a relationship like that.
Reason 11: Brody never once thinks that Hayley is fat, he loves her for who she is and for the things that make her Hayley. He loves her inside and out, and she becomes the most beautiful girl in the world to him.
Reason 12: Every time Brody calls her Hayles my insides melt.
Reason 13: Brody stalking Hayley, turning psycho and behaving like a girl every time his phone rang.
Reason 14: The characters feel so real and I was able to connect to them 100%
Reason 15: When they get together, they really get together, and in return you get some HOT kissing scenes. Then, of course, you read them over and over again because well…THEY ARE HOT.
Reason 16: I was laughing, smiling and going “oh my god they are so cute” throughout the whole book.
Reason 17: When I was obsessing about the Les Miserables song that Hayley sings in one of my favorite scenes from the book, the author took the time of her day to tell me which one she was thinking about when she wrote it.
Reason 18: Now I can’t listen to “On my Own” without smiling and thinking about Hayley and Brody
Reason 19: How I just have to buy the physical copy of the book because I read on the digital one.
Reason 20: The book gives hope to all the FFF’s out there who are waiting for a guy like Brody.
Reason 21: The names of the chapters are so creative and funny.
Reason 22: You want to keep reading because you just need to know what the next reason will be.
Reason 23: You feel like rereading your favorite parts immediately after finishing the book.
Reason 24: The more you read it (or reread it), the more you fall in love with the characters.
Reason 25: I can’t get this book out of my mind.
Reason 26: I want to show the world just how incredible this book is.
Reason 27: The book is extremely funny and clever and fluffy and the romance is one that I will NOT easily forget.
Epilogue: I really wish they would translate this book to Portuguese already so I could give it as a present to everyone. Later, after they finish and tell me it is awesome I will be able to say “I told you so.”
By Greice Marques
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