How to Hook a Bookworm

How To #3

by Cassie Mae

Getting kissed for a birthday present should not be a big deal. Especially for Brea Mason, who doesn’t think of her best friend, Adam Silver, in any way other than… well, a friend. But after the liplock she can’t seem to get him off her mind. And she has to, because Adam is a senior while she’s stuck in high school for another two years.

Then BAM, the perfect distraction comes along in the form of a new, hot sophomore who actually seems interested in Brea, despite her anti-social personality. And with the stress at home, stress at school, and ignoring the reality of all her friends leaving come June, Brea welcomes the distraction.

But when she sees four fat Fs on her report card, Brea needs a study buddy, and the best candidate is Adam, book nerd and math whiz. So she enlists his help, hoping the birthday kiss was just a fluke. After all, she has a boyfriend now. It should be easy to ignore the butterflies and fizzy feelings that arise with the bookworm… right?


Praise for HOW TO HOOK A BOOKWORM

"Nobody does adorkable like Cassie Mae. Whether you're a nerd lover or not, How to Hook A Bookworm will have you falling in love with Adam and Brea. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, and I couldn't put the book down. Fans of the first to How To books are going to love Bookworm!" ~ Kelly Oram, author of Cinder and Ella

"Cassie Mae is always awesome. The kissing is so very swoony!" ~ Jolene Perry, author of Stronger Than You Know

"A wonderful (happy-sigh-making) addition to one of my favorite book series ever." ~ Ilima Todd, author of Remake

Genres: Romance, Young Adult, Contemporary, High School, Friends To Lovers, Contemporary Romance, Teen

292 pages, ebook

First published January 2, 2015

About the author

CASSIE 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

Reviews

[• Lisa • · Rating 4 out of 5]

FOUR SKYROCKETING STARS.

"I wish for a better heart so someone will want a piece of it."



Nobody, (in my humble, book addict opinion) writes quirky, love struck, young adult books quite like Cassie Mae. Whenever I open a book from this author I can always expect that she will entertain and delight me with her cute and cheery tales of love. 'How to hook a book worm' is just as charming as the title suggests, and if you are already a reader that has enjoyed this series, then you'll know exactly what fun you can expect. I've been a fan of Cassie Mae from the moment I first read her writing and I doubt that love is ever going to stop. The 'How to' series is perfect for those readers that enjoy YA love stories and since this is a Cassie Mae story you can also expect a nerdy twist. Adam and Brea are characters that I'm sure I'll always remember and as the last characters in this 'How to' series they certainly have left their mark.

What did I love?
Any genre that wants to give me a sweet 'Friends to lovers' story can go ahead and make me the happiest reader. I'll never tire of this addictive trope and if Cassie Mae wants to carry on writing with this theme in mind then I'll be more than happy. as for this book, I felt like I'd hit the bullseye in the sweet stakes, Cassie Mae certainly knows how to bring the sweet and the funny, and these characters were beyond adorable. I don't think there would be many readers who would be able to find much wrong with this nerdy book fix and it only added to the proof of how much I love this type of easy escape. Adam and Brea were the perfect friends to fall in love. They have that wonderful element of opposites attract, with a little bit of the unrequited love theme thrown in for good measure too. Friendship and affection was at the heart of this novel and I enjoyed immensely that it's packed full with pages of laughter, puppy love and those perfect young adult kisses that make your tummy feel all gooey (in the best way possible). I feel a little disheartened that I won't be seeing any more books in this series but I'm also excited to see what other characters this author will create. Overall this novel was a fully likeable, adorable glimpse into the world Adam and Brea and their sweeter than sweet journey of finding each other.



Why not five?
Sometimes there's not much, not to love about a book yet you cant say with absolute certainty that it has that demanding 'give me a five star' feeling. This is not even a book that I won't remember in time to come, so you may ask, why not five stars? Well, to be perfectly honest I haven't got much of intelligent answer to give, other than to say that it didn't grab me by my book heart like other books by this author have and I wasnt as won over by this couples connection as much as I would have liked. However, my grumbles are very limited and overall I liked this book tremendously. Fellow book nerds will be very happy with this adorkable adventure and as always I'm excited for more 2015 releases from a favourite author.

Final thoughts ...
Whenever I'm in the mood for well written, lighthearted storytelling I'll always think of Cassie Mae first, it's rare or almost unheard of for me to not fall in love with her whimsical tales of young love. If awkward and unlucky in love stories with loveable teens is appealing to you then this will be a series you will enjoy, and as a bonus you'll also encounter side splitting comedy scenes and a kooky love plot that will make you swoon. Go grab it readers, enjoy ... Kisses.



*ARC generously provided by the author Cassie Mae in exchange for an honest review.*

[Jolene Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reasons you want to read this book:

1. the squirrel costume
2. Adam
3. Jay
4. A Star Wars themed wedding
5. Every time I smell nuts I will want a kiss
6. FRIENDS TO LOVERS FOR THE WIN!!!
7. Truth or Dare can be HILARIOUS
8. Companion novels ROCK
9. Cassie Mae is always awesome
10. The KISSING is so very swoony...

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brea and Adam are best friends. Brea is kind of closed off around others but has always found it easy to talk to Adam - she can tell him anything. Adam is kind and patient, he's really smart and a really good friend. I really love the relationship between these two characters. This book is really funny and there were a few laugh-out-loud moments. There was also a lot going on in Brea's life that wasn't so funny, between her grades and family financial situation and I felt really sad for her. I love the way this story unfolds, how friendships change and how Brea deals with the obstacles she has. Also, Cassie Mae writes the most swoony kissing scenes of any author I have read.

I'm so sad to see this series come to an end. Every time someone asks me for recommendation for a girl, I always recommend this series because it has such a great message - just to embrace who you are and that being popular doesn't mean much if you are not happy, that it's ok to march to the beat of your own drummer and to be yourself. That's what I took away from this series anyways. I wish I would've read books like this when I was in high school and I highly recommend this entire series for younger girls (or guys) who struggle with those issues.

[Joood Hooligan · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/h...

*bangs head on the table* I finished this book over two months ago, and I forgot to write the review. It gets better... the only thing I wrote about finishing it was, "need to write review. Almost punched Adam in the face." That's what happens when you read a book that's so fantastic that you couldn't even put it down to take notes.

Thankfully, I remember the book pretty well. It helps that I read it at the same time as two of my friends (one of which is Sofia, which is the reason I even read Cassie Mae in the first place.)

Out of the three books in this series, How To Hook A Bookworm is both my favorite and the one that made me bang my head on whatever device I was reading from at the time.

Warning to those who don't know me: I am not violent in real life, but I am an overly emotional reader. The first half of the book was so annoying. I wanted to smack Bree upside her head for her inability to see WHAT WAS OBVIOUSLY RIGHT IN FRONT OF HER THE ENTIRE TIME. The second part had me wanting to punch Adam in the face. Especially one bit. I was about to go on a rant about it... but, spoilers.

Just like the other two books in the series, there's a lot of adorable nerdiness - which makes me love this series so much.

There were a couple parts that I was a bit put out with the situations going on. Most of which revolved around Bree's mom. But, I do realize I saw things from the point of view of someone nearly a decade older than Bree with different life experiences. So, I do understand her reaction to those things.

Anyway, this was fantastic and I loved it. Also, bookworms are damn sexy - and Adam is the best love interest in the story - I'm just saying.

[Rahmi · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Star Wars wedding themed tho xD

[♥♡¢σσкιє♥♡ (Krystle) · Rating 3 out of 5]

You can find this review and more on my blog:

I’m surprised by how emotional I was while reading this. Even thought they weren’t all good emotions, I was very invested in the story.

My first emotion was frustration. I was very frustrated with the love triangle vibe of this book. It wasn’t really a love triangle, but it annoyed me anyway. Brea is clearly in love with her best friend Adam, and the book is about how they get together so I knew who she really wanted. Since this is a love story between Brea and Adam, I don’t know why so much time had to be spent on her making out with her boyfriend Jay. She was only dating him for a distraction, and all the time they spent together was a waste. Jay was a very nice guy, but when she wasn’t kissing him, she wasn’t thinking about him, it was all about Adam. I do respect that she never cheated on her boyfriend though. She never even considered cheating on him.

I think Jay's character was simply an obstacle in the way of Adam and brea's love, but It’s not like Adam and Brea didn’t have enough obstacles in their relationship. He is two years older than her, and going away to college in a few months so her timing could not be worse, and Brea's home life is very stressful.

This book also had a more serious tone than the others in the series. There were some funny scenes, but the reality of how hard things were for Brea, her brother Levi, and their mother, was depressing. They aren’t just struggling financially, they are flat broke. Five dollars is the difference between having a place to sleep that month and living on the streets, and this causes a lot of stress for their family. I commend the author for allowing her main characters to have such a real and common problem, but it was hard to read at times. I just don't read romantic comedies for realism.

On top of all of this, Brea is flunking out of school because she can’t seem to take test. She knows the answers, but when she is sitting in the classroom, she constantly second guesses herself until she fails. Fortunately, Adam is a genius who knows her better than she knows herself, and he is willing to do whatever he can to help her raise her grades. There are plenty of adorable scenes that involve Adam and Brea studying together and hanging out, but I would have liked it if they had a few more moments together as a couple.

The ending really tugged at my heartstrings, and I couldn't believe it when I actually teared up. I have read some really sad books and didn’t shed a tear, but for some reason the idea of two people who are so perfectly made for each other being forced to separate, made me cry. I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, and I also wanted to cheer at the end of the books because I was so happy for them.

The only reason I didn't give this book a higher rating is because Brea spent too much time kissing Jay, and not enough time smooching with Adam. I would recommend this book for readers who don't mind reading about realistic obstacles and problems in their romantic books The pay off at the end is really great, all the characters in the book are incredibly likable, there are just as many funny scenes as there are sad, and Brea and Adam are too cute for words.

Because of language and sexual content, I would recommend this book for ages 14 and up. There are no sex scenes, but sex is discussed in a humorous way.

[Lenore Kosinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars -- Why did it have to end???? WHY???

You know what I love about this series for books? How completely different and unique each heroine was. Brea was a whole other animal, and in Band Geek I wondered how I would find her. I worried she would be too witchy (with a b) for me, but Ms. Mae really gives you an accurate look at who she is and *why* she is the way she is. I don't think I've ever met anyone like Brea....she had moments of rubbing me the wrong way, but in the end she surprised with how much I *did* like her. Adam ends up describing her perfectly in that she doesn't worry about all those normal high school things (what people think of her, fitting in)...partly b/c she has too much else going on in her life, but partly b/c she already understands that that's not important. And maybe she is the way she is b/c of the struggles she's already faced in her young life. But I think it's intrinsic to who she is.

It's funny how there were things that I wanted to be different, but in the end I appreciated it more because they *defied* my expectations, and were more authentic to the characters. Like Brea herself, but another example is her relationship with Levi. It's no secret I am in LOVE with Levi, so I guess I wanted them to have some sort of close relationship. But they don't. Not that they don't love each other, but they're not *those* siblings, you know? And in the end, regardless of what I wanted, what was is what should be. If I'd gotten my wish, I probably would have been disappointed in the end b/c it wasn't true to the characters. And it shows a different kind of familial connection. In some ways similar to my own sibling relationship -- I love my brother, but we're just never going to be *those* siblings.

Brea goes through so much in this book, and my heart breaks for her. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that Ms. Mae always addresses an important issue -- not just for today's youth (though it is nice to know that when *actual* young adults read these books, they have characters that they can look up to), but for anyone really. I know my own brother struggled with feeling "stupid", and it makes me sad to know that he still sometimes thinks of himself that way. But what Adam says is right -- there are different kinds of smart. And I wish there had been someone to more effectively get through to my bro when he was younger, like Adam was for Brea.

On the relationship side, that was a whole heck of a lot of frustration. BUT AGAIN, I think it wouldn't have been half as good of a story if it hadn't played out exactly as it played out. Don't you just want to hate Jay? And yet you don't. And that relationship was needed to show Brea some truths about herself. It was actually nice to see her going through the whole relationship confusion -- how she gets tingles with him, but how it's not all the time. That probably doesn't make sense, but it does in my head.

OK, this review is getting long enough. And I haven't even talked about Adam. I love that boy, but sometimes (at the end) I just wanted to smack him upside the head. ;) If you're reading the book and you start to get worried, have faith in Ms. Mae. She'll give you what you need. (And in the chemistry department, hoo boy!!! Seriously....like holy swoontastic).

So, in conclusion, I do believe I need to start an official petition to get little bonus boy POV scenes from Zak, Levi, AND Adam. Please and thank you. Did I mention PLEASE??? Please please please please please pleasepleasepleaseplease....

[Cassie Mae]

New cover and release day!

January 2015! :D



Photo by PepperJack Photography
Cover design by Jolene Perry

[Tiffany Willams · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You gotta promise you won't get mad that I took something that could have been highly special for you. First kisses are big. But they're awkward too, so don't expect fireworks, 'kay?"
"It will be special, Adam. You're my best friend."

I feel like this book was written for me in a way. I, like Brea, had to cope with the fact that I slowly started falling for my best friend. It's a strange feeling, and confusing. But it could be the greatest thing that ever happens to someone. Especially if they are as awesome as Adam! I mean, he gave her her first kiss...for her birthday...swoon!

"I feel every moment of that kiss as if it were a million moments."

Gahhhh, Cassie!! That line actually teared me up, and it was on page 16! It took me back to the innocence of everything. First kisses, first experiences, first love. I love that in every book that Cassie writes, I see myself in these characters. I feel what they are feeling. It's relatable to so many.

It's no different with Brea and Adam. They have such a strong bond, and nothing will ever break them. Until a new guy comes into the mix. Jay Garrick is--with lack of a better term--sex on a stick. Every girl can't stop staring at him. Even Brea's two girlfriends, Sierra and Jolie, can't seem to quit talking him up. So when an opportunity pops up to go on a date with this adorably, awkward hottie, Brea has to say "yes".

"He could've said his name was Dinkleberry, and I would have swooned in my pants."

Seriously, this book had me in stiches. I laughed as much as I swooned. Jay and Brea were a cute couple, but I would have never been able to look away from Adam. Who could resist a guy that stood on a corner in a squirrel costume with a sign that said "Ask Me About Our Nuts"? Okay, so it's his work uniform, but still...so cute!

When Brea's grades start to slip quickly, she admits that she needs help and Adam is just the guy she needs. He's the smartest guy she knows, and he knows what makes her tick. The ways that he figures out what's making her grades fail is amazing. Seriously! I love him!

"If he really thinks I can do this, then damn it, I will try not to let him down."

As they spend more time together--more than usual--they actually grow closer in some ways, and farther apart in others. Never did Brea ever imagine that two guys would be taking up her mind. Also, she never thought that her personal life would get even worse. It's actually very heartbreaking. I wanted to jump into my book and hug her so hard! She held in secrets from everyone, even Adam, to the point that she wasn't even the same person.

"You don't have to walk me up. I know your fear of the dark."
"Yes, but you also know I won't let you walk alone."

Major swoon!!!! Adam, be still my heart. I loved watching/reading Brea slowly falling for Adam. Again, it takes you back to the butterflies in your stomach and the stutters in your voice. It makes you pull for them. You want them to get together!

"The last thought that goes through my head is what it would be like to fall for a friend."

It's also weird for me to say that I actually liked Jay. He was so cute, but Brea was with him to distract herself from reality. Could you imagine being in that situation? Wow, it would be so hard.

"You're a beautiful girl, Brea." Say what?
"Jay isn't the only one who notices, and he's probably worried about the time you spend with...someone who notices, too."

"I just don't want to cause a problem. That's all I'm saying. Being the guy best friend has been a problem in the past, and I don't want it to be with you."
"It won't. And if it is a problem, than it's his problem. not ours."

I could not get enough of these two! They are total opposites in most ways, but they are so much alike in every other way. They get each other. When the rest of the world doesn't make sense...they do. Even when they know that Adam is leaving for college soon, they don't stop running to each other.

"It seems like you're always holding me together, so when you leave, I'm not sure if I'll fall apart or if some of me will go with you."

Between the red M&M's, Stride gum, iPod shuffles, star gazing nights, horror movies, pop quizzes and almond smelling clothes, Adam and Brea stole my heart! I couldn't get enough!

I loved this book from the first to the last page. I loved seeing all my favorite people again. Zak and Zoe's Star Wars wedding was what nerdy dreams are made of! Sierra and Levi are just as PDA-loving as always, and I really liked getting to know Jolie.

Goodness me!!! I don't care what anyone says! Nerds, Band Geeks, and Bookworms can be the most swoonworthy guys ever!!! I'm truly going to miss every single person in this series. I feel like my friends are moving away, but I can revisit with them often.

Thank you, Cassie! You made my nerdy heart so full and happy with each of these books! I hope everyone appreciates this series for what it really is...finding happy endings even when you don't feel like it's meant for you. Everyone deserves a remarkable love story...even Nerds, Geeks, and Bookworms. <3

"If it's any consolation, it's really hard not to kiss you when you do that."
"Do what?"
"Breathe."
"I'm always breathing."
"Exactly."

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Firstly I must say that I have been addicted to this series and it was almost with a sad feeling I started this book. I was excited to read the latest Cassie Mae, i always am, she is a comedy genius, but i was sad to be saying goodbye to the series. I am soo rubbish at reading the last book in a series normally i signed up to a "series finish" challenge this year to give me the motivation to finish the many series i have started. So I set aside a day, opened up my copy and dived in with a sort of sad excitement.

As soon as i started reading i completely forgot this feeling and was "hooked" (sorry couldn't resist!). As with Siera in Bandgeek, we see a completely different side to Brea. There is explanation behind her behaviour that starts you really connecting with the character. Don't get me wrong, she is still feisty, love that in a female lead, but you start to learn about why she behaves like she does and get a better understanding of her as a character.Adam is just adorable and one of the best friends you could ever ask for!

In many places i was cracking up with laughter, there are many references to a squirrel costume, and i seem to remember one of my status updates being along the line of "Chapter 18 has the best title". In places it really did break my heart, but overall it was just the perfect way to say goodbye to a much loved series.

So thank you Cassie for writing such awesome characters, and helping me meet my quota for finishing series this year :)

[Mariana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book... OMG.
Cassie Mae is just an amazing writer. And here I was thinking, that after like 5 books I've read from her, it was not possible for me to like her even more.
First reason to read this book: Brea. That girl we got to know on How to Seduce a Band Geek is definitely worth a book of her own. I just love her personality and I guess that she is the toughest female character of all the three books. We get to know a little bit of Levi's story through her as well, and I'm all about that.

Second reason: Adam. I meaaaaaaaan. Adam ain't no Levi (I just love Levi :p) but he is just the cutest guy ever. I would soooo love to have this guy as a friend. He is just so incredibly sweet and helpfull.

Third reason: This awesomesauce relationship between Adam and Brea. Romance between best friends is my weakness, but this book just takes it to a whole new level. The relationship between this two is soo much more than just friendship. Cassie just did an amazing job of showing how much connected these two are.

Fourth reason: well, Zoe and Zack from How to Date a Nerd, get married in this book. And let me just say that this wedding alone makes the whole book worth reading, at least TWICE.

So yeah, if you haven't bought it, I just don't know what you waiting for. Totally worth it.

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Cassie Mae. You never cease to amaze me with your ability to turn me into a sap. This book was just too fickin CUTE! I had a grin plastered to my face like 90% of the time. I couldn't help myself. I loved every second of this book.
The characters of Brea and Adam are defo my favourites of the series. I adored those two. Brea was a fantastic protagonist. She was written with such realness, it was hard not to connect with her. And Adam was the ultimate best friend. He was such a sweetheart, I just wanted to squeeze his cheeks! Too cute!

In true Cassie Mae fashion, there is no shortage of laughs to be had. The chapter titles alone had me laughing out loud more than once. There was so many hilarious moments, I'm glad I didn't read this in front of people because I think I was laughing like every 5 minutes.
As well as humor though, Cassie really knows how to turn me into an emotional wreck. There were a couple scenes that had me shedding a few tears and that just made me love the book more, because it was able to affect me so much.

I'm sad to say goodbye to these characters, but the best was definitely left for last. Bookworm has become my favourite of this series. I just can't fault it. Absolute perfection.

*I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*

[Melinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

"How to Hook a Bookworm" is the final book in the "How To" series and it is the absolute perfect ending to such a wonderful series.

The book is all about Brea Mason. On her 16th birthday she gets kissed by her best friend Adam Silver. She doesn't think of him as anything other than her best friend but after the kiss she can't get him out of her mind. Then a new boy comes along who happens to be interested in Brea and the perfect distraction to all the not so good things happening in her life. However, when Brea gets F's in 4 of her classes she asks Adam to tutor her. Besides the birthday kiss didn't mean anything or did it......

Pros
1) Adam in his squirrel uniform
2) Truth and Dare can be an extremely entertaining game
3) I can relate to Brea and Adam which makes them both all that more lovable
4) Zak, Zoe, Sierra, and Levi all make an appearance in this book and we get to see what happens to them after their respective books
5) The Star Wars Wedding is epic. Honestly a movie should be made just so I can see this particular scene
6) Cassie Mae is an amazing author who knows how to write incredible novels. I read this novel in one night and I couldn't put it down until I finished. That's how good it was.

Cons
1) Absolutely none at all except for the fact that I'm going to miss all of these characters so very much

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to Hook a Bookworm is book 3 in Cassie Mae's How To series, a series I have absolutely adored from the very beginning. This book was my favorite though, which is surprising since I thought Band Geek would totally take that spot since I, myself, was a band geek. There was just something about Brea and Adam I fell in love with; perhaps it was the best friend scenario, or the building tension, or just Brea's personal growth in general. I also am always a bit thankful when a learning disability (no matter the form) is thrown into these books, because my son is dyslexic and struggles with things like test anxiety. I feel like maybe someone who struggles with the same issues will pick up a book such as this one and feel like they aren't alone. Another favorite part of this series is that all of the couples have put the sex issue on the other side of marriage for reasons that include "because I want to," and because they "stopped making decisions based on how popular they (the decisions) are." These are qualities I completely respect!

And, for all the How To fans out there - this book includes a certain wedding that you simply don't want to miss!!

Rated: 5 Stars
Genre: Young Adult - Romance
Rating: PG-13 - Teenage appropriate talk of sex, mild cussing

[Bonnie-Anne Carmichael (Love Triangles Are Fucking Stupid.) · Rating 1 out of 5]

YUCK. I wish I could unread that book.

I knew going in that the boyfriend would annoy me BUT I was hoping he was going to be what my friend calls a decoy boy. I didn't expect her to be with him for the majority of the book. You have to read so many kissing scenes with them and barely any with the actual lad she ends up with. Eugh.

Adam was also one of the most pathetic book boyfriends EVER. He says he loves her but he basically couldn't be bothered putting the work into a long distance relationship because Google told him they never work. Seriously. He sprouted out all these bullshit reasons but to me he just wanted to go to school single. He changes his mind at the very last minute but frankly by then it was too late. I didn't buy that he loved her at all. Anytime she tried to convince him to be with her I just cringed. I wanted to yell at her to just get a grip and find someone else who actually wanted to be with her.

The other books I've read by this author have all been so cute, I'm so seriously disappointed in this one.

[Rachel Schieffelbein · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect conclusion to the How To series. Brea is different from Cassie Mae's other girls in that she has a much harder shell. But underneath is an insecure teenage girl who's just trying to figure out who she is. I loved her. I really felt for her and what she was going through.

And Adam is a total doll, a perfect compliment for Brea.

Another touching, well-written, fun story from Cassie Mae.

[Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An awesome addition to the series. I read it all in a day and couldn't put it down. It sounds like the series is over which makes me sad but still very happy that I got to read it.

[Ilima · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful (happy-sigh-making) addition to one of my favorite book series ever. Why are nerdy boys so dang cute? Loved it!

[Nani Dawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

i have to say, i love this book so much. I loved the star wars wedding! And it was so good to read all the characters again.

Cassie, I love you.

[Lauren ♥ Inked in Chapters · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can read this and other reviews at Inked in Chapters



Here’s the thing…

When I’m down, feel like the world is a crap-hole, and people suck; I read a Cassie Mae book.

‘Why?’ you ask.

Cassie has this way of righting the wrongs.

The problem I’m having right now is not with Cassie, it’s with me. ME! I am the problem. I have had a copy of How to Hook a Bookworm for months – MONTHS – and kept pushing it aside to read some other not so feel-good material. Dumb, so dumb.

But I finally read it. In fact, I buddy read it with Ada Frost (She’s amazing, too, btw) and we both agree that Bookworm is not to be missed.

If you’ve read this series in order, you know that Brea is the sister of Levi, who is the best friend of Zoe and boyfriend of Sierra. If you haven’t read them, I’ve just spewed a whole bunch of names at you and effectively scrambled your brain. That’s okay. While I don’t think you HAVE to read the previous books in the series, I’d highly recommend it. Back to Brea… She’s 16, lives in a trailer, worries constantly about how her family will survive, is failing four classes, and wants to run away. If I were facing even half of what she has to, I’d build myself a blanket fort and refuse to come out – ever. The way that Brea saw herself through most of the novel nearly broke me. It’s was hard to read. Everyone is someone of importance. Everyone is intelligent in their own way. This is some serious gut-wrenching material. One particular scene had my stomach in my throat and little tears welling up in my eyes.

Closing my eyes, I suck in a breath and hold it.

I wish for a better heart so someone will want a piece of it.

But there is hope in the form of one 18 year old male – Adam.

Adam is Brea’s bestie - he has been for the last few years - and he’s determined to help her pass her classes while being the shoulder she so desperately needs to lean on. The only problem? Adam is graduating this year. He’ll be off to college before either of them can sneeze, and then what?
Did I mention that there’s a new sexy sophomore at school sniffing around Brea? It’s funny how people realize their feelings when what they want belongs to someone else (or is scheduled to leave the state...)

How to Hook a Bookworm easily makes my Top Five Cassie Mae Reads of All Time list. Betcha didn’t know I have one of those. Well, I do. I love her. L-O-V-E, love. It’s easy to list her as my favorite YA author, because she is. She’s it. If you haven’t read her work, please do. Don’t be dumb like me and let her writing sit around while you grab hold of other reading material. Read How to Hook a Bookworm or How to Date a Nerd or Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend or…well, you get the point.




Plus, most of her characters love superheroes. ;)

[V. Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

To all the squirrels I've loved before . . .

I was given an ARC copy of this book with the request of leaving an honest review so here goes . . .


There is a point in every reader's life where they have a laugh out loud moment with a book that has their husband staring at them like they are the creature from a black lagoon, or a giant booger is hanging from their nose. So when you try to explain what's so funny about the book, but your husband obviously doesn't understand pure literary genius, you just have to shrug off their cross-eyed stare and keep reading because it's that good! This was that book and beginning of Chapter 18 was that scene! (And by the way, it's quite possibly the best chapter title in the world, and had me laughing even before I read it!)

How to Hook a Bookworm, is a cute, light, fun read that has you chuckling, nerdgasming, and cheering throughout the entire book. I give this book 5 nuts up! (wait that sounded way more pornographic then it should have . . . but if you read the book then you will understand what I mean)

Brea's character is hilarious. Not only is she socially awkward, with that right amount of naïve cuteness every great girl MC needs, you also identify with the problems she experiences throughout the book. Though I do have one tiny problem with her, and that's the fact she has no taste in movies what-so-ever! I mean seriously who doesn't love Molly Ringwald - Molly Ringwald equals GOD or GODDESS ... Whatever .... the point is people who don't love classic 80's movies, the movies that teach you about love and life, the movies that crafted the awkward teen, and the social outcast, the heartthrob that seems unattainable but by the end of the movie they are yours, the movies that every teenage girl lived by is INCONCIEVABLE! (Spot the reference) ;) But other than her poor taste in movies, I loved Brea! She had an amazing dynamic with Adam, and I think even though she ran away from her problems, and used her hot, rich boyfriend to cover up her feelings, I still really enjoyed her character.

Is it bad I felt a little sorry for Jay at the end of the book too?

But even with how bad I felt for Jay, he wasn't man enough for her, Adam was always the character for Brea.

Adam is amazing! He is not only the perfect best friend, but he is great boyfriend material as well. Any guy who will go out of his way to give up half his job just so his best friend can get work, is a great guy in my book. Adam is the smart bookworm. He loves to read, can go to any college he wants to, is great with software, and is the quintessential nerd you love, to love. My only problem was by the end of the book I was screaming at him. Like literally yelling, telling him he was being stupid and needed to wake up. I understood his point of view, but I didn't agree with it, and neither did Brea.

Together Brea and Adam just work. It's through Cassie Mae's amazing writing ability that she creates characters that not only warm your heart, but melt it a little bit too. (Some people are just worth melting for.) You fall in love with her characters in the nerd series, I love how it concludes some open ended issues with Zoe and Zak, and Sierra and Levi. And I have to say it! This book needs to be made into a movie just for the wedding scene alone! I seriously had to fan myself over the nerdgasm I was having.

If you love a great a book, one with a heartwarming plot, believable and relatable characters, and scenes that have you spilling milk from your nose then How to Hook a Bookworm is the book for you!

Thank you Cassie for sharing your book with me! I adored it!

[Kathy Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must admit that I did a little happy dance when my copy of How to Hook a Bookworm came in the mail. I *might* have been stalking the mailman and my mailbox.... but let's not talk about that in public.....I've been anxiously awaiting this release because I thoroughly enjoyed How to Date a Nerd and How to Seduce a Band Geek. Bookworm is the third and final book of this series (each of which can be read as standalones) and it did not disappoint!

I just knew it was going to be an awesome book when the very first thing I read is "Can I get kisses instead of spankings for my birthday?". Yep, sounds good to me!

Brea Mason is turing sixteen. For her birthday wish she wants the impossible : her first kiss. Brea's best friend Adam Silver steps in to make that wish come true. The problem is that after their first kiss she can't seem to get him off her mind.

"He breaks away before I have a chance to get really into it, but I feel every moment of that kiss as if it were a million moments."

Brea is cute and funny. The honesty of her character was refreshing. She shows the awkward reality of high school, but in a very sweet way. Then just when you think you've only go the sweet... you get the feels that just pull at your heartstrings.

"I wish for a better heart so someone will want a piece of it."

At the heart of the story is a girl who is truly worried about being left behind. Everyone in her social group of friends will be leaving for college at the end of the year while she finishes up her last two years. Afraid of being alone, Brea looks for friendship and love in the new, hot sophomore that everyone at school is talking about.

"Jay looks like a rock-star. Not like, metaphorically, but an actual rock-star. His leather jacket has got to be real. Genuine cow over there. His T-shirt is tight and snug, but not so tight that it looks like it's two sizes too small. He should wear white all the time, because he looks good."

What I really really love about this book is how the characters stay true to themselves. Even when Brea dates Jay she doesn't loose herself. She doesn't try to become someone she isn't For their first date she asks to go to the car wash. Because the car wash has a lot of fond memories for her. It's rare to find a book these days that I can think of proudly handing to my daughter that shows positive female role models. I wouldn't blink an eye before promoting this book to young girls.

Brea, however cannot get Adam and their kiss off her mind. She needs him more than ever when shes gets a series of very low grades and asks for his help. She has a serious case of test anxiety. With these days of high stakes testing it is a very real problem that kids can relate to. Adam was so loving and smart as he helped her. You couldn't help but fall in love with him!

"How can I get more butterflies from studying than from making out?"

"I swing my arms up around his neck, and his glasses press tight against my face. He reaches to take them off, but I don't want them off. I like them there. I like his glasses and his red hair and his pocket tees and his warm smile."

In the end, beauty is only skin deep. The good guy finished first, and I'm completely through the roof, over the moon, skyrocketing through space for How to Hook a Bookworm!!! You can't go wrong with squirrel costumes and a Star Wars wedding! Pick up How to Hook a Bookworm (or any of Cassie's books) today and enjoy!

"I am completely through the roof, over the moon, skyrocketing through space in love with my best friend."

**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**

[Literary Binge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always feel like it’s such a privilege to read a Cassie Mae book because of how good they leave me feeling. How to Hook a Bookworm is no exception. There’s always this level of comfort that comes with reading one of her novels that never fails. HtHaBW was such an incredible read for so many reasons I feel like none of the words that I write will do it justice.

My favorite part of this particular book is the realness of the characters. You’re not reading about rugged good looking trust fund babies. It’s about normal people. People who trip and fall, act completely dorky and drive rusty cars and live in trailers. I love the realness of the story and how it makes it that much more relatable. These characters are people you and I went to school with. Folks we see every day in class or at Walmart. There’s a reality in Cassie Mae’s writing that leaves her readers not only humbled but appreciative to read a story that could just as easily me mine or yours. I love the fact that these are books I can share proudly with my kids. I love that we get to watch these characters grow. I love that they are shouldering real world problems and that the struggle is real, the situations are heartbreaking but they pull through not in grandiose ways that would be unrealistic but in ways that people struggle to do every. Single. Day.
How to Hook a Bookworm was a fantastic book that left me feeling normal. Because I do chat more than I actually text and/or call on the telephone and I get that experience in this book. I adore the way we get to watch Brea mature and change and gain a self confidence in a humbling way. But mostly, I love how this book will stay with me. How it will warm my soul every time I see a Geo or hear the creak of someone’s car door.
And good grief page 154. Every single word. THE WHOLE PAGE. Cassie Mae’s ability to write details almost goes un-trumped. It makes me feel what the characters feel on a whole new level that creates and intimacy between reader and character I find to be unmatched by most authors.

With 20 pages left I had to stop because I just didn’t want this series to be over. I didn’t want to have to say goodbye Adam and Brea, Levi and Sierra, Zoe and Zak. And with 10 pages left, my heart began to race with the possibility that it wasn’t going to end the way that I wanted it to and I was ready to yell at the author. But in true Cassie Mae form, a heartwarming HEA was waiting to mend all the heartache.
Flawless. That’s the word I would use to most describe How to Hook a Bookworm. I loved everything about this story. From how quotable and sweet it is to how to romantic it reads without being cheesy. My heart is a little broken to say goodbye to these characters but I find satisfaction in knowing it ended in the best way possible.

How to Hook a Bookworm is the third book in the How to Series by Cassie Mae. They can all be read as standalones but I highly suggest first reading How to Date a Nerd followed by How to Seduce a Band Geek. You won’t be disappointed.

Fave Quotes:
“But I decided that the popularity of something holds no value when I make my choices. I make decisions for me.”
“And my stomach becomes a hive of bees making honey. Warm, busy, much too confusing.”
“..so when you leave, I’m not sure if I’ll fall apart or if some of me will go with you.”
“In what way do you love me?” ….. “In every way.”
“I L word you too. Smartass.”

You can read this and other reviews on my blog: www.literary-binge.com

[Tia ShadowRealm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am struggling to put into words how cute this story was. How do I write a review for a book that lived up to my expectations and more? Just give me a moment. . . .

"You're supposed to be in class," I breathe out between stifled sobs.
His arms tighten around me. "When your friend texts you that someone very important is having a rough
day, you drop everything that is less important."


This quote was the breaking point for me. Adam had been adorable and sweet and an awesome friend and all that jazz but that moment was just so perfect. It cemented everything I loved about the story and Cassie's writing because it shows the things that are important in a relationship even when they seem small to one person, they mean everything to the other.
This is what I love about this series; every relationship is so awkwardly cute and real because of it. There are no overly dramatic moments or points when you think "that would never happen", it's just so REAL and yet, still swoonworthy.

Brea appeared for a few brief moments in How to Seduce a Band Geek and she seemed like a very difficult child but here we see her having grown up and a bit more sensible and less selfish. We learn that Adam has been a strong constant since then and her life was not as bad because of it, but now that it is the end of year and graduation for her group of friends, she faces the next two years of school without them. Brea's struggles with her home life, grades and impending loneliness are struggles that a lot of sixteen year olds have to face and I loved that Cassie includes them in her stories without being overly dramatic or minimising them either. That lady can Goldilocks the hell out of her stories.

I have already mentioned how adorable Adam was. I found a kindred spirit in a lot of his qualities, though at one point I was annoyed by his over logical side. I am a logical romantic (oxymoron, I know) so even though I see his point, I felt that he should have trusted his own situation over statistics, because, come on, statistics are a load of BS; they can never be 100% accurate. (Sorry my qualitative vs quantitative argument was showing).

Jay was a nice change because he was so nice. Usually, characters in his position turn out to be horrible people so I am beyond happy that this was not the case as it shows that there can be people out there that are just not right but still good, regardless (though he showed one pretty big flaw he was still doing it with good, but misguided intentions). Trying not to be spoilery but I just needed to say that.

I feel like a large portion of that was just about how good it was that some things weren't in it -a kind of positive for lack of a negative- but this is important for me as they are things that turn me off a book, so this was so good because of that.

My only issue is that the characters from the previous books seem less likable to me when seeing them after their stories. I suppose this allows for the next story to only get better.

Anyway, all in all, fantastic writing, plot and characters. I absolutely loved it and hope you do too. <3

(Cute + funny + awkward) / Dramatic = Perfect

[Michelle Monroe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our Nuts are bigger and better!

Haha! I LOVED this installment of Cassie's 'How to' books. She definitely delivered a great ending to this series! Brea is a hard shell to crack. She is struggling with failing most of her classes, living in poverty, having a boyfrined that she is not sure of and being epically in love with her bookworm best friend, Adam.

I love how she incorporated all her other characters (Zac & Zoe, Sierra & Levi) without overpowering Brea and Adams story. And guys, there is a Star Wars wedding!! You surely won't want to miss that!

Even though Brea struggles with so many obstacles in her life, she still tries to figure out who she is and what she wants. She works hard to bring her grades up, tries to find a job to help her mother and her brother, Levi (who is still at home helping with bills even though he wants to move out with his girlfriend, Sierra). Though all this, she discovers that she is totally in love with her best friend, Adam. The one person that she can be herself with and can share everything with.

-Excerpt
He's the first taste of soda after nothing but water. He's hot chocolate mid-winter. He's the first crack when opening a brand new hardback. He's back for breakfast, fuzzy socks for Christmas, candles in a blackout. Everything I love, and never fully appreciate until I go without it for a long, long time.

I'm sure you will love Brea and Adam just as much as you have all Cassie's other characters, and if you haven't read their stories yet, you need too! :)

And of course, we have some humor thrown in the mix, Cassie style! Adam works at Nut World, and his job is to be in a huge squirrel costume standing on the corner twirling a sign that says 'Come on down. Our nuts are bigger and better' (Wait, it gets better...)

-Excerpt
The owers Peggy, Mary & Aretha are hilarious! Brea comes into the store asking for a job and this is the conversation...after Mary comes out from the back room asking what Brea wants...

"Oh my, Mary..." Aletha says, pointing to Mary's chest. "You have nuts in your bosom."

Mary drops the pen in her hand and swipes at her have-to-be triple D's.

"They're always getting stuck in here." She looks up at me as she digs around in her bra. "Nuts just love to pop between these overgown melons."

I bite on my lip to keep from laughing so hard I snort.


*Can be read as a stand alone, but I think you will also enjoy the other books in the series 'How to Date a Nerd' and 'How to Seduce a Band Geek'.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

*sigh* I LOVED it!!! But I'm really sad that it's over. :( CASSIE, there had better be a 'family reunion' novella! Maybe when Brea graduates? OR you could just write a new adult series with the same characters. ;)

UPDATE: From the blog

I think what I love most about Cassie Mae's writing is even though I can put all of her books into a similar category (for the most part) and most of her characters are quirky, nerdy peeps...they are all SO DIFFERENT! I mean, even within this series (the How To series) they are completely different. And all of the characters are related to previous characters somehow, whether they be siblings, friends, significant others...and yet they still surprised me once we got inside their heads, and a deeper understanding of their lives. It didn't matter that Brea was Levi's sister, and they lived in the same house, she still had a different experience, a different reality, than Levi even did.

Anyway, I digress. Brea and Adam? LOVE them together! Don't get me wrong, I actually really liked Brea's boyfriend, for a while anyway, but I want Adam for her.

If you've read HOW TO SEDUCE A BAND GEEK, you already know that Brea's home life is not exactly sunshine and unicorns. But even I didn't realize how bad things had gotten until seeing their situation through Brea's eyes. Plus, I thought she was a total pain in the hind end in Band Geek, but I LOVE her now.

And I thought I had a pretty good idea of who Adam was, and what was going on in his life from Band Geek, but, honestly, I didn't have a clue. He is SO MUCH MORE than I ever imagined he was.


Seriously, you MUST read this! Just go pre-order it. :)

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this was my favorite in the "how - to" series. Maybe cause I can relate to it better {no, I'm not in love with my best friend. Although who knows, maybe one day I will discover I am hopelessly in love with him idk. half of the world already thinks we're dating xD} But because I can relate to Brea. I don't live in a trailer, I'm not poor, but I am a confused teenager. I keep things bottled up inside. Honestly, I don't know why but i just loved this one a lot. I've loved watching ALL the characters grow throughout the past three books, and I loved seeing Zak and Zoe's relationship expand. I loved Sierra and Levi. But this book, this is the one that made me feel all of the feels. I cried so much while reading this book idek. Brea deserves her happy ending, and the epilogue was perfect.:)

Thank you Cassie Mae, for creating a book trilogy that girls can relate to. I think everyone can relate to at least one of the characters, whether it be Zak, Zoe, Levi, Sierra, Brea, Adam, or even Jay or Jolie. Maybe even Brea's mom or Adam's dad, who knows. I have been eagerly reading and awaiting the next book in this series since I first read How to Date a Nerd, and I honestly can't believe it's over. I'll be waiting for your next book!:)

{also disclaimer - I stayed up till about 4:10 am to read this book #noregrets oops}

[Morello Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to Hook a Bookworm is the third and final book in the How To Series. If you want to get a full appreciation of the characters that Cassie has created, my suggestion is to read the rest of the series - How to Date A Nerd and How to Seduce A Band Geek. You'll not only in love with those characters, but you'll have a whole list of nerdy boys to add to your book boyfriend list. How to Hook a Bookworm is a great addition to the series and a great way to wrap up multiple story lines. The main character is Brea (like the cheese) is a girl with some rough edges. She has always had to be conscientiousness when it comes to her family's financial situation, her best friend Adam is the only one she seems completely comfortable around, she can be herself and he takes care of her even when she doesn't realize this is exactly what she needs. Adam is cute, funny and by far one of my most favorite male characters. He's smart and dorky and who doesn't love a man in a uniform (even if it is that of a giant squirrel). Brea has to decide if she's going to let her family drama dictate how she views life, or if she'll take a risk and become someone who can hook the bookworm and get a happy ever after.

Pros: the Star Wars wedding (this book needs to be made into a movie for that scene alone)
Cons: None, but I will miss these characters..

[Krista · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brea's struggling with everything: her mom being out of work, failing four of her classes, being obsessed about money, and the fact that all of her friends are graduating, but she's only a sophomore. Adam has always been there for her, but he's leaving too. She wants things to be better. On her birthday, Brea gets her first kiss, but it's from Adam. And it's an amazing kiss.

Brea tries to stop thinking about the kiss and distract herself from everything by kissing the new sophomore, Jay. As things get worse, she wants to forget. Adam becomes her tutor and spending more time together is beginning to make Brea realize how much she cares for him and it's even harder when she finds out he is leaving sooner than she thought. She'll have to open herself up and allow herself to be vulnerable to tell Adam the truth about how she feels.

Cassie Mae wrote an incredible conclusion to one of my favorite series! It was wonderful to see the conclusion of all of the characters from the three books. I really enjoyed reading about Brea and Adam. Adam is completely adorable and I want to watch him read too! :) I'm sad that this series came to an end, but I loved reading it and it's one I will read again!

[Angie Hulsman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a huge fan of Cassie Mae, I knew I would enjoy How to Hook a Bookworm, but I didn't realize just how much! The characters are likable, the dialogue witty and the story moves along at a great pace. I have to admit, Brea was not a favorite of mine from the previous book. She was a little snobby, kinda mean and I didn't know how I would feel about her story. In Bookworm we better understand the Brea behind the snarky attitude and I found a lot of myself in her character; I found myself routing for her to get her happily ever after. Adam....Adam must be a saint. Watching and wanting to be with someone, yet trying to be the mature one and pretend all you want is friendship.....that sacrifice made me love Adam and want to hit him in the head at the same time. As with all of Cassie Mae's books, I found myself chuckling at the actions of the characters, but in Bookworm, Cassie brought me to tears more than once with her heart-tugging scenes. I'm sad that this is the last book in the series, but I know that Cassie won't leave us without more adorable nerds in the future. Check out How to Hook a Bookworm, it's a true YA that will warm your heart and want to share with your fellow book nerds!