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Available
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Publication
Publisher Unknown (2012), Kindle Edition
Description
Fiction. Romance. HTML:A Contours of the Heart Novel The New York Times Bestseller by Tammara Webber Rescued by a stranger. Haunted by a secret Sometimes, love isn�t easy� He watched her, but never knew her. Until thanks to a chance encounter, he became her savior� The attraction between them was undeniable. Yet the past he�d worked so hard to overcome, and the future she�d put so much faith in, threatened to tear them apart. Only together could they fight the pain and guilt, face the truth�and find the unexpected power of love. A groundbreaking novel in the New Adult genre, Easy faces one girl's struggle to regain the trust she's lost, find the inner strength to fight back against an attacker, and accept the peace she finds in the arms of a secretive boy. A college age, New Adult Romance.… (more)
Media reviews
I'm seriously left behind in class! Just like Jacqueline, I missed class for two weeks! Not because of a heartbreak, though. Heehee. Anyway, I was admitted in a hospital because of Dengue Fever stage II and I just went to class a while ago. When I asked my professors for a remedial class, I was
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hoping to get a tutor as cool as Landon. Unfortunately, my professors have yet to read "Easy" since they told me to catch up the lessons by myself! Ugh! Talk about unfair. How come I don't get a one-on-one e-mail tutorial session??? How come there's no Landon Maxwell to save me from my two-week ignorance of Political Thought, Southeast Asian Studies, Ethics, Japanese Studies, Medieval Literature, and Majors! See what I mean? Landon Maxwell could be really helpful right now.
Really, guys. Easy by Tammara Webber is that good. I just have to remind you, though, that it contains mature subjects and themes.
I was surprised by how heavy the plot is. I don't actually support some of Jacqueline and Lucas' decisions, but I'll leave it up to you to decide. Meanwhile, I'll share three lessons I got from the book.
Here it goes!
1. Don't let your past take away your future. It doesn't define who you are today and who you'll be in the future. Live life like there's no second chance!
I got this from both Jacqueline and Lucas. Jacqueline throws away her dream of entering a prestigious music school to follow her boyfriend in a State University, only to find out that he'll break up with her just before their 3rd year anniversary. Jacqueline is devastated and she'll rather fail the class than to sit beside her ex for an hour-long Economics class! Thankfully, her bestfriend/roommate and Econ professor help her to get back to her feet. Her bestfriend starts to encourage her to come to class and her professor gives her a cool and intelligent personal tutor, Landon Maxwell.
The past of Lucas is rather heart-wrenching and tragic to the point that he almost stopped living by wasting himself. His father, a Ph.D. holder and a well-known scholar, shut down his senses and rationality because their horrid past is too much to bear. Thanks to Dr. Heller, Lucas is spared from a dead-life.
2. Do not fear. Step up. Let your voice be heard.
Two weeks after their breakup, Jacqueline is almost raped by a brotherhood rival of his ex. Good thing, Lucas is there to stop him. Knowing the shame that she'll get, Jacqueline decides to keep the incident a secret until it happens again. She escapes the second time around, but not her bestfriend's sorority friend. That's the only time they relayed the rape cases to the authority; however, they'll have to face the consequences of their prolonged silence.
3. Follow your dreams.
That includes your heart's desire. Jacqueline will eventually decide if she'll pursue a degree in music or education. And she'll also have to face her heart. Whom does she love the most? Her ex? Landon Maxwell? or Lucas?
I know you'l enjoy this book, too! Enjoy reading! God bless you more. :) Show Less
User reviews
LibraryThing member lynnm
Overall, the story kept me turning the pages which is a great thing. And the effect of the whole was very much greater than the sum of the parts, which is why I have problems giving it a higher rating.
The main problem I had with this book is the fact that it's a kitchen sink story - everything but
Perfect Mysterious Bad Boy? Check
Damsel In Distress Heroine? Check
Jerk of an ex-boyfriend? Check
Perfect Perky Roommate? Check
Deep, Angsty Past for one Character? Check
Evil Rapist who Goes Unchecked? Check
And it goes on.
Lucas, while the perfect fictional guy, was very much a Gary Stu. He was beyond perfect to the point of eye-rolling. Smart. Hot. Protective. Great fighter. Artist. Engineer major. (BTW, I generally find the idea of an engineer major who is also a fantastic fine artist to be a bit odd - the mindsets are generally opposites for these two vocations.) Has a cute pet that he rescued. Angsty past. Uber-volunteer. Has to work his way through college by tutoring and working at Starbucks. He was not human. And the things the writer gave him to make him a "bad boy" were just surface effects. Tattoos are fine, but the ring in the lip? Served no purpose other than to make him edgy. Nothing about his personality made him a bad boy. He wasn't a man-whore. He didn't get into any trouble. In fact, he was practically a choir boy. Oh, well, he did ride a motorcycle. Of course.
As for the heroine, Jacqueline, while she was likeable enough, again the writer short-cutted her personality by telling the reader that Jackie was all of these things but never showing us. Apparently, Jackie is a Julliard-level upright bass musician. At that level of talent, music would be her entire life. But all we get are mentions of her missing a practice here or there and how she teaches middle schoolers. Never once did Lucas even seem interested in hearing her play. It was as if Jackie needed some character traits and so the writer gave her that one after picking it out of a bag.
As for the story, overall I liked the premise - girl is saved from a rape by a mysterious guy. But then the writer had to throw in the dual-identity plot. And the Lucas-has-a-tragedy-in-his-past plot. And the dealing-with-the-rapist plot. And the ex-boyfriend plot. It was all over the place.
Finally, there were portions of the story that felt like they were written by a real young adult as opposed to a professional writer. For example, when a teacher tells Jackie about Lucas's past, the dialogue reads like a novel. Very unrealistic - nobody (even a college professor) tells stories verbally that way.
Oddly, for all of the issues I had with characters, plot and writing, I still kept turning the pages. So like I said above, the whole overcomes the problems of the parts.
The main problem I had with this book is the fact that it's a kitchen sink story - everything but
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the kitchen sink was in it as far as cliches.Perfect Mysterious Bad Boy? Check
Damsel In Distress Heroine? Check
Jerk of an ex-boyfriend? Check
Perfect Perky Roommate? Check
Deep, Angsty Past for one Character? Check
Evil Rapist who Goes Unchecked? Check
And it goes on.
Lucas, while the perfect fictional guy, was very much a Gary Stu. He was beyond perfect to the point of eye-rolling. Smart. Hot. Protective. Great fighter. Artist. Engineer major. (BTW, I generally find the idea of an engineer major who is also a fantastic fine artist to be a bit odd - the mindsets are generally opposites for these two vocations.) Has a cute pet that he rescued. Angsty past. Uber-volunteer. Has to work his way through college by tutoring and working at Starbucks. He was not human. And the things the writer gave him to make him a "bad boy" were just surface effects. Tattoos are fine, but the ring in the lip? Served no purpose other than to make him edgy. Nothing about his personality made him a bad boy. He wasn't a man-whore. He didn't get into any trouble. In fact, he was practically a choir boy. Oh, well, he did ride a motorcycle. Of course.
As for the heroine, Jacqueline, while she was likeable enough, again the writer short-cutted her personality by telling the reader that Jackie was all of these things but never showing us. Apparently, Jackie is a Julliard-level upright bass musician. At that level of talent, music would be her entire life. But all we get are mentions of her missing a practice here or there and how she teaches middle schoolers. Never once did Lucas even seem interested in hearing her play. It was as if Jackie needed some character traits and so the writer gave her that one after picking it out of a bag.
As for the story, overall I liked the premise - girl is saved from a rape by a mysterious guy. But then the writer had to throw in the dual-identity plot. And the Lucas-has-a-tragedy-in-his-past plot. And the dealing-with-the-rapist plot. And the ex-boyfriend plot. It was all over the place.
Finally, there were portions of the story that felt like they were written by a real young adult as opposed to a professional writer. For example, when a teacher tells Jackie about Lucas's past, the dialogue reads like a novel. Very unrealistic - nobody (even a college professor) tells stories verbally that way.
Oddly, for all of the issues I had with characters, plot and writing, I still kept turning the pages. So like I said above, the whole overcomes the problems of the parts.
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LibraryThing member jennrenae
I had never read any of Tammara's books before, but I had been eyeing this one and waiting for the release date since I stumbled upon it. I actually had it on my Kindle for a few days before reading it, and after reading it, all I can say is, "Why in the heck did I not read this sooner?" It was
Easy reminded me of Beautiful Disaster--just the right amount of romance blended seamlessly with the right amount of action. There were only a few times (maybe 2) where I thought it dragged, but then it picked right back up and I was hooked again!
I loved Tammara's characters. She brought life to the--even the smaller roles. I really loved Erin, Jacqueline's roommate. She was passionate, opinionated, and was one of those girls that knows what they want. She was funny and I really enjoyed watching her take Jacqueline under her wing and help her through her situation. I imagine her as the perfect college roommate--fun and social, but totally willing to help you kick a guy's ass--if need be.
The story centers around Jacqueline, who in a few short weeks, experiences a heart-wrenching break-up, an attempted sexual assault, and a possible class failure. She's real in every aspect--from her emotions to her actions. But, I really liked that she wasn't whiney. She took charge or her situations and tried not to let them ruin her life. Even though I have never been in any situation remotely similar, I still felt like I related to her.
And then there's the hottie--Lucas. He's the yummy bad boy that rides a motorcycle, has tatooes and body piercings, and can reduce a man to rubble in a fight. You'd think he's the type you wouldn't want to bring home to mommy, but that's not true. In fact, everything on the outside rivals what's on the inside. He's full of pleasant surprises, and trust me, you will totally fall for him!
This is definitely for mature readers, as the first chapter starts with an attempted sexual assault. But for those who can handle the adult situations, this is a great, MUST READ book.
I will admit, I've already re-read my favorite parts!
Tammara interweaves a chilling plot line with brilliant and swoon-worthy romance, and I just couldn't get enough!
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fantastic, and I know it is one of those books that I will read over and over again!Easy reminded me of Beautiful Disaster--just the right amount of romance blended seamlessly with the right amount of action. There were only a few times (maybe 2) where I thought it dragged, but then it picked right back up and I was hooked again!
I loved Tammara's characters. She brought life to the--even the smaller roles. I really loved Erin, Jacqueline's roommate. She was passionate, opinionated, and was one of those girls that knows what they want. She was funny and I really enjoyed watching her take Jacqueline under her wing and help her through her situation. I imagine her as the perfect college roommate--fun and social, but totally willing to help you kick a guy's ass--if need be.
The story centers around Jacqueline, who in a few short weeks, experiences a heart-wrenching break-up, an attempted sexual assault, and a possible class failure. She's real in every aspect--from her emotions to her actions. But, I really liked that she wasn't whiney. She took charge or her situations and tried not to let them ruin her life. Even though I have never been in any situation remotely similar, I still felt like I related to her.
And then there's the hottie--Lucas. He's the yummy bad boy that rides a motorcycle, has tatooes and body piercings, and can reduce a man to rubble in a fight. You'd think he's the type you wouldn't want to bring home to mommy, but that's not true. In fact, everything on the outside rivals what's on the inside. He's full of pleasant surprises, and trust me, you will totally fall for him!
This is definitely for mature readers, as the first chapter starts with an attempted sexual assault. But for those who can handle the adult situations, this is a great, MUST READ book.
I will admit, I've already re-read my favorite parts!
Tammara interweaves a chilling plot line with brilliant and swoon-worthy romance, and I just couldn't get enough!
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LibraryThing member BookWhisperer
I am always iffy when I hear such wonderful reviews about a book because I usually hold it to a higher standard and most of the time I am let down. However, this time I was not. Wow! Such a wonderful book!!! Webber pulls you in from the beginning of the first chapter and I knew I was hooked.
After
But then there is Lucas (her savior from the attack.) She starts to notice him all around campus and can’t get him out of her mind. After running into him a few times, he starts to creep into her brain. She notices that he is always there when she needs him but then he pushes her away because he has his own secrets he is hiding.
Jacqueline is torn between these two men. Landon is brilliant to boot, witty, and sweet. Lucas is protective, mysterious, and down right sexy. How is a girl to pick?
Besides loving Jacqueline, Lucas, and Landon, I really enjoyed Jacqueline’s best friend and roommate Erin. She was such a strong character and a pillar for Jacqueline when she needed her.
How Webber writes these relationships is nothing less than perfection. I lived Jacqueline’s life with her as I read this book. And of course, I feel in love with Lucas. This is a MUST READ book! And a warning, when you start this, make sure you have all day to finish it because you won’t want to put it down.
~BookWhisperer Reviewer MC~
After
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Jacqueline’s attack, she starts attending her econ classes again and requests a second chance from her professor for her missed classes and mid-term. He grants it to her but suggests that she use the help of the tutor that the university employees. Since she has class on the days and time that the study group meets, Landon (econ tutor) must help Jacqueline via email. The relationship that Webber builds between these two is wonderfully adorable. The flirting between the emails gives Jacqueline a small hope and something to look forward to. But then there is Lucas (her savior from the attack.) She starts to notice him all around campus and can’t get him out of her mind. After running into him a few times, he starts to creep into her brain. She notices that he is always there when she needs him but then he pushes her away because he has his own secrets he is hiding.
Jacqueline is torn between these two men. Landon is brilliant to boot, witty, and sweet. Lucas is protective, mysterious, and down right sexy. How is a girl to pick?
Besides loving Jacqueline, Lucas, and Landon, I really enjoyed Jacqueline’s best friend and roommate Erin. She was such a strong character and a pillar for Jacqueline when she needed her.
How Webber writes these relationships is nothing less than perfection. I lived Jacqueline’s life with her as I read this book. And of course, I feel in love with Lucas. This is a MUST READ book! And a warning, when you start this, make sure you have all day to finish it because you won’t want to put it down.
~BookWhisperer Reviewer MC~
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LibraryThing member Books007
Jacqueline has just lost her longtime boyfriend. On her first post-breakup night out, she is attacked and a complete stranger (Lucas) comes to her rescue. As she works her way out of her break-up funk, she finds herself having feelings for two completely different boys (Lucas- her rescuer and
Lucas is a strong, silent type dealing with a past that haunts him. But Jacqueline brings out a side of himself he thought was gone forever. Can he follow his heart and share his past?
What a great story! So well written, totally sucked me in from chapter one. And this may be a young adult book but let me tell you, some of their love scene were SMOKIN' HOT! (Side note - I do love a hero with a lip ring! There is just something about that bad boy image!)
I can't recommend this book highly enough. (I enjoyed it so much, I immediately went back and re-read my favorite parts! I've bookmarked and will probably re-read them again tonight.) Don't even think about starting to read it unless you have time to finish it because you are not going to want to put it down. I just wish I knew someone else who has read it so we could talk about it. This is one going down as one of my all-time favorite reads! Can't wait to read more by this author!
I received this ebook in exchange for honest review from Netgalley.
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Landon- her tutor) when she didn't expect to be feeling anything for anyone at all. Rebound or something more?Lucas is a strong, silent type dealing with a past that haunts him. But Jacqueline brings out a side of himself he thought was gone forever. Can he follow his heart and share his past?
What a great story! So well written, totally sucked me in from chapter one. And this may be a young adult book but let me tell you, some of their love scene were SMOKIN' HOT! (Side note - I do love a hero with a lip ring! There is just something about that bad boy image!)
I can't recommend this book highly enough. (I enjoyed it so much, I immediately went back and re-read my favorite parts! I've bookmarked and will probably re-read them again tonight.) Don't even think about starting to read it unless you have time to finish it because you are not going to want to put it down. I just wish I knew someone else who has read it so we could talk about it. This is one going down as one of my all-time favorite reads! Can't wait to read more by this author!
I received this ebook in exchange for honest review from Netgalley.
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LibraryThing member Tinkerbell4726
One of my favorite books of 2012. I LOVE Lucas. The whole story was captivating. My heart broke many times throughout but it was a beautiful story.
LibraryThing member TheBookLife
I had actually had this sitting in my Nook for quite some time and I just never got around to starting it. Then I kept seeing rave after rave popping up about it and my interest was re-piqued. I can't belive I waited so long to read this gem of a novel. I guess it technically falls in the New Adult
I really liked Jacqueline as a main character. Considering what happens to her in the beginning of the book and what she was dealing with prior to that, she could have been really whiny and all around unlikable, but despite some serious moping, in the beginning, over her break-up, I thought Jacqueline rallied quite well. I don't agree with the decision she made to not report the attack, but not having ever been in a similar situation I can't really speak to experience on that one.
Lucas is a freaking knight in bad-boy armor. That boy has all of the things that make me swoon. He's tough, smart, witty, sarcastic, and he respects women. Total package, ladies and gentleman. I loved the back and forth between him and Jacqueline. The chemistry was amazing and I was desperately turning the pages to see where it all was going to lead.
I absolutely recommend this, just not really for the younger teens, because it does have some adult stuff going on in it. Still, it's such a great story all around and now that I've got a paperback copy, it will live happily on my shelf.
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category and I like that the characters are a little older and further along in their lives. We also get some serious sexual tension and when the sexytimes happen, boy are they steamy!I really liked Jacqueline as a main character. Considering what happens to her in the beginning of the book and what she was dealing with prior to that, she could have been really whiny and all around unlikable, but despite some serious moping, in the beginning, over her break-up, I thought Jacqueline rallied quite well. I don't agree with the decision she made to not report the attack, but not having ever been in a similar situation I can't really speak to experience on that one.
Lucas is a freaking knight in bad-boy armor. That boy has all of the things that make me swoon. He's tough, smart, witty, sarcastic, and he respects women. Total package, ladies and gentleman. I loved the back and forth between him and Jacqueline. The chemistry was amazing and I was desperately turning the pages to see where it all was going to lead.
I absolutely recommend this, just not really for the younger teens, because it does have some adult stuff going on in it. Still, it's such a great story all around and now that I've got a paperback copy, it will live happily on my shelf.
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LibraryThing member Bookswithbite
An awesome and amazing read, once I started reading I could not put it down. It gave me a adrenaline high like never before.
Just to put this put this out there, this book is about rape/sexual assault. If you are sensitive to this, then this book may not be for you.
Onward with the review...the
Which brings me to the love interest. Lucas and Jacqueline make a great couple. They match each other perfectly yet face similar hardships in their life. Both carry deep secrets and desperately need someone to rescue them. They both are so busy doing for others that they hardly do anything for themselves. These precious moments they have together, give the book just the right amount of light to overshadow the dark. They help each other face their past and move forward.
There are many things I could say but in all seriousness, Easy is freaking fantastic. It's heart-wrenching, yet it fills the reader with a hope that not all is lost. Easy is a successful story because of what is brings. It brings realistic story of lost and love. Offering a raw yet enthralling story, Easy is awesome!
Just to put this put this out there, this book is about rape/sexual assault. If you are sensitive to this, then this book may not be for you.
Onward with the review...the
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plot is dynamic yet impressive. After being taken in by the first chapter, I could not stop reading. You think everything is okay, that nothing will happen and then BAM! Then incident happens and your so hooked, you want to fight too! You should have seen my hands forming fist ready to kick some butt! I was angry yet relieved when it was all over, yet I knew it had just begun. Each chapter the reader sees Jacqueline face so many trails. The anger and frustration, the pressure of who's fault it was, to being scared every single day.Which brings me to the love interest. Lucas and Jacqueline make a great couple. They match each other perfectly yet face similar hardships in their life. Both carry deep secrets and desperately need someone to rescue them. They both are so busy doing for others that they hardly do anything for themselves. These precious moments they have together, give the book just the right amount of light to overshadow the dark. They help each other face their past and move forward.
There are many things I could say but in all seriousness, Easy is freaking fantastic. It's heart-wrenching, yet it fills the reader with a hope that not all is lost. Easy is a successful story because of what is brings. It brings realistic story of lost and love. Offering a raw yet enthralling story, Easy is awesome!
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LibraryThing member pnh002
Easy was just that; an easy, thrilling read. From the moment I first cracked open the book, I was enthralled and couldn't wait for more. What I loved most about it, was how it not only took me on a thrilling ride in the world of fiction, but also taught me a lesson as a woman. Books with lessons
Jacqueline goes to college with her boyfriend of three years and thinks that her life is amazing. That is, until he joins a fraternity and breaks up with her with the lamest, most BS excuse he could think of. She is left single at a university (where she was never supposed to be) with few friends. One night leaving a party, her ex's frat brother physically assaults her outside in her truck. Her world is then turned upside down by the dude who swoops in and saves her out of the blue. They have more in common than they realize and as they learn more and more about each other, their worlds melt together to finally paint their picture of happiness.
What I liked most about this book was the lesson it taught. Too many times books feature women as small creatures that can't or won't do anything to protect themselves. This book centers on Jacqueline keeping herself safe. There were so many things I was upset at her about at first, but towards the end I felt better when I saw that her character had grown and gotten smarter. I also liked how it showed her able to go on. I loved how she didn't just shut down after the attack and let him win. It portrayed her as empowering, something that isn't really depicted in novels, especially YA ones.
Another thing I liked about this book was the characters. Erin more specifically. She was the exact replica of a best friend. I loved how she took Jacqueline's side and didn't make it seem as if she was at fault, even when others did. And of course I loved hot ass *ahem* I mean, Lucas. Besides the fact that he was incredibly hot, with a lip ring, and covered in tattoos, he was also caring and understanding. I felt so bad for him for being so guarded, but when I finally got his story, I was heartbroken and I could tell why.
Although this story was a work of fiction, it was so beautifully crafted it made the book a perfect realistic fiction rendition. I was fully pulled into Jacqueline's world and I felt every emotion she had. I loved how Webber was able to balance Jacqueline's emotions. She was assualted, but in the end, she wasn't afraid to fall for Lucas. I viewed this as her not being afraid to move on with her life.
Easy was a moving read and caused me to push back "life" quite a bit. I was too wrapped up in J's life to remember to do certain things in my own. I appreciate the life lesson to women and the wonderful story Webber put together.
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always seem to score big with me. Jacqueline goes to college with her boyfriend of three years and thinks that her life is amazing. That is, until he joins a fraternity and breaks up with her with the lamest, most BS excuse he could think of. She is left single at a university (where she was never supposed to be) with few friends. One night leaving a party, her ex's frat brother physically assaults her outside in her truck. Her world is then turned upside down by the dude who swoops in and saves her out of the blue. They have more in common than they realize and as they learn more and more about each other, their worlds melt together to finally paint their picture of happiness.
What I liked most about this book was the lesson it taught. Too many times books feature women as small creatures that can't or won't do anything to protect themselves. This book centers on Jacqueline keeping herself safe. There were so many things I was upset at her about at first, but towards the end I felt better when I saw that her character had grown and gotten smarter. I also liked how it showed her able to go on. I loved how she didn't just shut down after the attack and let him win. It portrayed her as empowering, something that isn't really depicted in novels, especially YA ones.
Another thing I liked about this book was the characters. Erin more specifically. She was the exact replica of a best friend. I loved how she took Jacqueline's side and didn't make it seem as if she was at fault, even when others did. And of course I loved hot ass *ahem* I mean, Lucas. Besides the fact that he was incredibly hot, with a lip ring, and covered in tattoos, he was also caring and understanding. I felt so bad for him for being so guarded, but when I finally got his story, I was heartbroken and I could tell why.
Although this story was a work of fiction, it was so beautifully crafted it made the book a perfect realistic fiction rendition. I was fully pulled into Jacqueline's world and I felt every emotion she had. I loved how Webber was able to balance Jacqueline's emotions. She was assualted, but in the end, she wasn't afraid to fall for Lucas. I viewed this as her not being afraid to move on with her life.
Easy was a moving read and caused me to push back "life" quite a bit. I was too wrapped up in J's life to remember to do certain things in my own. I appreciate the life lesson to women and the wonderful story Webber put together.
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LibraryThing member alaiel.kreuz
I just finished reading Easy and I have to tell you, guys, now I understand why the big fuss. It is good. It holds the perfect amount of drama, romance, hotness and misunderstandings to make the book irresistible.
For starters the plot evolves around one of those things that sadly are still very
That's why, after reading Easy, I felt the need to thank the author, Tammara Webber. I really hope she reads this because I've worked with girls that were raped and I know the suffering they went, and go, through.
Ms. Webber did an amazing job portraying the different situations that could happen, not only to the victims but also showing how could the people around them react. And it felt real, all of it. The ones that supported the victim, the ones that tried to defend the rapist and the ones that justified the rapist' behavior.
As amazing as it sounds the last two do happen more often that I want to admit. And I don't understand it. Rape is wrong, is hurtful and no one, girl or boy, young or adult, deserves to suffer it.
But the author treated everything with elegance, from our main character Jaqueline who was about to be raped until a guy she didn't know saved her, to the romance that evolved from it. This knight in white armor has a name, Lucas. Despite his secrets, that are dark and very heart breaking, he is almost perfect. He doesn't only tries to protect Jaqueline but remembers her that what happened wasn't her fault and encourages her in the right moments.
Like many bloggers out there I have to say that we all need a Lucas in our lives. He is the kind of guy that brightens a room with his presence just by being there.
As for the supportive characters my favorite was Jaqueline's best friend, Erin. Very loyal, very strong, very protective; she didn't hesitate to stand by her friend no matter what.
Then of course we have Kennedy, Jaqueline's ex boyfriend how, although he tries to emend his mistake of breaking up with her he does it very poorly.
And the bad guy (very, very bad guy) Buck. He is the perfect prototype of the worst abuser: he could be your friend and then backstab you in a second.
The romance was well developed too, it wasn't the kind of "Oh, you saved me, I'm in love with you" thing, far from it, Jaqueline tried to forget that night with all her strength but somehow Lucas just kept appearing wherever she was. And he usually looked or said the right thing in the right time.
And let's not forget the making out. Because it happened, and I loved it. As I said, Ms. Webber did everything with elegance and these situations, after what happened to Jaqueline, are very delicate and Lucas was the perfect gentlemen.
Overall, I can only say that I'm ready to read every book that Ms. Webber has write so far, I'm sure I just found a new author to love and treasure.
For starters the plot evolves around one of those things that sadly are still very
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taboo in our society: rape. I bet most of you flinched after reading the word. I know I did. Not just because it makes us, women, feel vulnerable but also because we know when its mentioned it comes with a lot of pain, rage and depression.That's why, after reading Easy, I felt the need to thank the author, Tammara Webber. I really hope she reads this because I've worked with girls that were raped and I know the suffering they went, and go, through.
Ms. Webber did an amazing job portraying the different situations that could happen, not only to the victims but also showing how could the people around them react. And it felt real, all of it. The ones that supported the victim, the ones that tried to defend the rapist and the ones that justified the rapist' behavior.
As amazing as it sounds the last two do happen more often that I want to admit. And I don't understand it. Rape is wrong, is hurtful and no one, girl or boy, young or adult, deserves to suffer it.
But the author treated everything with elegance, from our main character Jaqueline who was about to be raped until a guy she didn't know saved her, to the romance that evolved from it. This knight in white armor has a name, Lucas. Despite his secrets, that are dark and very heart breaking, he is almost perfect. He doesn't only tries to protect Jaqueline but remembers her that what happened wasn't her fault and encourages her in the right moments.
Like many bloggers out there I have to say that we all need a Lucas in our lives. He is the kind of guy that brightens a room with his presence just by being there.
As for the supportive characters my favorite was Jaqueline's best friend, Erin. Very loyal, very strong, very protective; she didn't hesitate to stand by her friend no matter what.
Then of course we have Kennedy, Jaqueline's ex boyfriend how, although he tries to emend his mistake of breaking up with her he does it very poorly.
And the bad guy (very, very bad guy) Buck. He is the perfect prototype of the worst abuser: he could be your friend and then backstab you in a second.
The romance was well developed too, it wasn't the kind of "Oh, you saved me, I'm in love with you" thing, far from it, Jaqueline tried to forget that night with all her strength but somehow Lucas just kept appearing wherever she was. And he usually looked or said the right thing in the right time.
And let's not forget the making out. Because it happened, and I loved it. As I said, Ms. Webber did everything with elegance and these situations, after what happened to Jaqueline, are very delicate and Lucas was the perfect gentlemen.
Overall, I can only say that I'm ready to read every book that Ms. Webber has write so far, I'm sure I just found a new author to love and treasure.
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LibraryThing member HereWithoutYou
I really wanted to like this book...
...but from the very beginning I couldn't find a connection to the characters. For me, there was no depth to them and I was frustrated by the lack of communication between Jacqueline and Lucas.
Although I guess, when you are looking for a rebound, there isn't
After reading the great reviews for this book, I expected intense chemistry. Another thing I couldn't find in this books. the characters are likeable, Lucas more so than Jacqueline but as I mentioned in the beginning, they had no depth to them.
It's not a bad book, well written and I can see why someone might like it but since I couldn't connect with it, there'll only be 3 stars.
...but from the very beginning I couldn't find a connection to the characters. For me, there was no depth to them and I was frustrated by the lack of communication between Jacqueline and Lucas.
Although I guess, when you are looking for a rebound, there isn't
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much communication needed. It was pretty clear though that a rebound was far from Jacqueline's mind and thus I expected communication to pick up. That sadly never happened.After reading the great reviews for this book, I expected intense chemistry. Another thing I couldn't find in this books. the characters are likeable, Lucas more so than Jacqueline but as I mentioned in the beginning, they had no depth to them.
It's not a bad book, well written and I can see why someone might like it but since I couldn't connect with it, there'll only be 3 stars.
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LibraryThing member chickey1981
This book resonated with me strongly, and I'm giving it a well deserved 4.5 stars.
I received this book from Goodreads First Reads giveaways in exchange for an honest review.
Easy by Tammara Webber has been floating around cyberspace for a while, and so I was excited to get a chance to read it. This
I think that any woman can tell you that being attacked is something we all think about when we are heading to our cars at night, and one thing that we are all nervous about, even if we don't say it out loud. The fact that someone can go through such trauma and then end up on top is really empowering. That's all that went through my head-- with great, loving friends and support, you can protect yourself. Jacqueline grows and develops throughout the book, initially powerless, but then finds ways to stand up for herself. Erin helps her every step of the way. I know I've already started the love fest about Erin, but she is totally awesome. She is unwavering in her support to Jacqueline, and the fact that she is a sorority girl that parties and Jacqueline is a bookworm makes no difference in their relationship. In fact, in many instances, she totally stands up for her instead of standing with her sisters. She is incredibly insightful and very protective of Jacqueline, and I think she is as much of a heroine in this book as Jacqueline. Not to mention, the boys in this book are very hot. The novel is fast paced, and I blazed through it from beginning to end.
The only issue I have is that there must be so much more in Erin and Jacqueline's history that is just not there. I know it's not their book, but they must have gone through a lot in their friendship to be so close, and all we get is a one liner that they've come a long way.
Overall, a worthy read with an even worthier message. For any woman who wants to read a GIRL POWER book, this is the one for you.
I received this book from Goodreads First Reads giveaways in exchange for an honest review.
Easy by Tammara Webber has been floating around cyberspace for a while, and so I was excited to get a chance to read it. This
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book stars Jacqueline, a college girl, who has been dating the all American guy for three years, and has a charmed life. This all ends when said guy dumps her to spread his wild oats and she gets attacked by one of his frat brothers. Then she meets Lucas, a hot bartista, and also starts a flirty conversation train with her new Econ tutor whom she's never met. And not to mention, she has a kick butt best friend and roommate, Erin, who is probably one of my favorite characters of the year.I think that any woman can tell you that being attacked is something we all think about when we are heading to our cars at night, and one thing that we are all nervous about, even if we don't say it out loud. The fact that someone can go through such trauma and then end up on top is really empowering. That's all that went through my head-- with great, loving friends and support, you can protect yourself. Jacqueline grows and develops throughout the book, initially powerless, but then finds ways to stand up for herself. Erin helps her every step of the way. I know I've already started the love fest about Erin, but she is totally awesome. She is unwavering in her support to Jacqueline, and the fact that she is a sorority girl that parties and Jacqueline is a bookworm makes no difference in their relationship. In fact, in many instances, she totally stands up for her instead of standing with her sisters. She is incredibly insightful and very protective of Jacqueline, and I think she is as much of a heroine in this book as Jacqueline. Not to mention, the boys in this book are very hot. The novel is fast paced, and I blazed through it from beginning to end.
The only issue I have is that there must be so much more in Erin and Jacqueline's history that is just not there. I know it's not their book, but they must have gone through a lot in their friendship to be so close, and all we get is a one liner that they've come a long way.
Overall, a worthy read with an even worthier message. For any woman who wants to read a GIRL POWER book, this is the one for you.
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LibraryThing member Tina.Sandev
It was very hard for me to get excited about this book when I started reading it, and also took me a lot of willpower to continue reading until the very end. I found myself skimming through the better part of this book, so that I can simply get it over with.
I found the plot quite dull and the
I also totally hate the way the assault issue was treated and, at moments, I was like 'What the ****?!'. I'm sorry but...this is soooooo wrong. This is not how you handle serious issues like this in young adult books - this sets a bad example to young girls and should be completely out of the question. So, if you don't know how to write about this part of life, then don't. Just don't.
Easy? NO. This book was not easy - it was mind numbing.
That's it. I'm out - 1 star (even though I would have gladly given it 0 stars, if such an option was available).
I found the plot quite dull and the
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characters, if I am to put it mildly, not very exciting - if i have to be completely honest, the female protagonist is one of the most stupid and incomprehensible characters I've ever encountered in a book. At times I was literally considering beating my head agains the wall, wondering how a person could be that deluded. This girl probably killed a couple of thousand of my brain cells. And the Lucas guys...Seriously? How many books are there with the same guy in the cover and that name for the leading male character?! Sorry Lucas, even though you may be a good person and a good-looking guy, I couldn't quite fall in love with you. Perhaps you should ask the person who created you why...I also totally hate the way the assault issue was treated and, at moments, I was like 'What the ****?!'. I'm sorry but...this is soooooo wrong. This is not how you handle serious issues like this in young adult books - this sets a bad example to young girls and should be completely out of the question. So, if you don't know how to write about this part of life, then don't. Just don't.
Easy? NO. This book was not easy - it was mind numbing.
That's it. I'm out - 1 star (even though I would have gladly given it 0 stars, if such an option was available).
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LibraryThing member kissedbyink
Such a wonderful story about two people who meet and fall in love. Also shows just how a violent act like rape effects men/guys, not just women. Loved it!!
LibraryThing member DarkFaerieTales
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: This book is filled with romance and real life issues that made it so good I honestly couldn’t put it down.
Opening Sentence: I have never noticed Lucas before that night.
The Review:
Jacqueline followed her high school boyfriend to college instead
Shortly after her break up with Kennedy Jacqueline’s roommate drags her to a frat party where Kennedy and all of his friends are there. Jacqueline decides to bail out early and ends up leaving the house alone. When she gets to her car she is attacked by one of the drunken frat boys and he tries to rape her. Then out of nowhere Lucas arrives and saves her. She has never noticed Lucas before that night but it turns out he is also in her Economics class. He is a bad boy to the core with piercings and tattoos to prove it. He is totally hot and Jacqueline can’t help the feelings he brings alive in her. But Lucas has secrets and she doesn’t know if she can trust him with her heart.
I absolutely loved Jacqueline. She felt so real to me and was someone I could easily connect with. At times she does make some dumb mistakes, but they are mistakes you see people make all the time in real life. She has her heart broken by the boy she thought was her future and now she is left to pick up the pieces of her life. She deals with this like most normal girls do and she eventually gets through it and is a better person because of it. After she is attacked, yes she is scarred but eventually she opens up and talks about it. She even takes a self defense class with her roommate to make sure it doesn’t happen again. I loved that this was a New Adult book, sometimes in YA books the characters can be so immature. It was nice to read from a little bit older point of view.
Landon is a fun character. You don’t get a lot of interaction between Landon and Jacqueline because their whole relationship is through text and email. His emails are always informative with a hint of flirtation in them and I loved it. You know he is smart and sweet, but you don’t know what he looks like which makes him mysterious. Jacqueline obviously likes him, but she needs to meet him before their relationship can really go anywhere.
You can sum Lucas up in one word — HOT!!!! I always love a tortured bad boy. The relationship between Jacqueline and Lucas is very steamy and was fun to read. At first they both play a little hard to get but eventually they can’t deny their attraction. The buildup and anticipation is done perfectly. At first Jacqueline wants just a rebound to help get over Kennedy, but as she spends more time with him she starts to really fall for him. But Lucas has a past and he doesn’t open up easily to anyone. Can Jacqueline break through his walls and make their relationship work?
This was such a good book. The writing and flow of the book was perfect. I picked this book up and couldn’t put it down until I was finished (which was 2 in the morning). The book covered some very real issues that happen in today’s society, and it really helped me to connect with the story. Everyone has let downs and hurt in their lives, but how you deal with them is what makes you the person you are. I felt that this book nailed this perfectly. The characters felt so real and the way they react and fix their problems felt very genuine. This book was an emotional roller coaster ride and I loved it. I wanted to add a warning that there are some sensitive subjects in this book like rape, sex, vulgarity, and underage drinking so if any of these subjects bother you I would maybe steer clear of reading this one. I honestly can’t say enough good things about this book, so if you are a fan of contemporary books you should really pick this one up.
Notable Scene:
From the corner of my eye, I watched his mouth twitch up on one side. “Do you really want to talk about that?” He maintained the closeness, our torsos pressed together chest to thigh, ostensibly waiting for my answer. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d been so full of pure, unqualified desire.
I swallowed. “As opposed to talking about what?”
He chuckled, and I felt the vibrations of his chest against mine. “As opposed to not talking.” His hands at my waist gripped a little tighter, thumbs pressing into my ribcage, fingers still at my lower back.
I blinked, one moment not understanding what his words implied, and the next knowing unreservedly.
“I don’t know what you mean,” I lied.
He leaned closer still, his smooth cheek whispering against mine as he murmured, “Yes, you do.” Struck again by his scent-clean and subtle, unlike the trendy colognes Kennedy favored, which always seemed to overpower any scent I wore-I felt an impulse to bring my fingertips to his face and trail them over his freshly shaven jaw, the sexy scruff from yesterday gone. His skin wouldn’t redden mine now if he kissed me, hard. I would feel nothing but she mouth on mine-and maybe that slim ring at the edge of his lip…
FTC Advisory: Penguin/Berkley provided me with a copy of Easy. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: This book is filled with romance and real life issues that made it so good I honestly couldn’t put it down.
Opening Sentence: I have never noticed Lucas before that night.
The Review:
Jacqueline followed her high school boyfriend to college instead
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of following her dreams and going to a really serious music school. Now that they are sophomores, her boyfriend Kennedy has decided that he wants to play the field and live a little. Unfortunately for Jacqueline, she made Kennedy take an Economics class with her and she hasn’t been able to face him for the last two weeks so she skipped class. She ended up missing her midterm and is going to fail the class, in a last attempt to save her grade the teacher suggests she get some help from a tutor — Landon Maxfield. They correspond through emails, and Landon is very sweet and smart. Jacqueline finds herself looking forward to receiving emails from him, and can’t help but be attracted to him even though she has never met him.Shortly after her break up with Kennedy Jacqueline’s roommate drags her to a frat party where Kennedy and all of his friends are there. Jacqueline decides to bail out early and ends up leaving the house alone. When she gets to her car she is attacked by one of the drunken frat boys and he tries to rape her. Then out of nowhere Lucas arrives and saves her. She has never noticed Lucas before that night but it turns out he is also in her Economics class. He is a bad boy to the core with piercings and tattoos to prove it. He is totally hot and Jacqueline can’t help the feelings he brings alive in her. But Lucas has secrets and she doesn’t know if she can trust him with her heart.
I absolutely loved Jacqueline. She felt so real to me and was someone I could easily connect with. At times she does make some dumb mistakes, but they are mistakes you see people make all the time in real life. She has her heart broken by the boy she thought was her future and now she is left to pick up the pieces of her life. She deals with this like most normal girls do and she eventually gets through it and is a better person because of it. After she is attacked, yes she is scarred but eventually she opens up and talks about it. She even takes a self defense class with her roommate to make sure it doesn’t happen again. I loved that this was a New Adult book, sometimes in YA books the characters can be so immature. It was nice to read from a little bit older point of view.
Landon is a fun character. You don’t get a lot of interaction between Landon and Jacqueline because their whole relationship is through text and email. His emails are always informative with a hint of flirtation in them and I loved it. You know he is smart and sweet, but you don’t know what he looks like which makes him mysterious. Jacqueline obviously likes him, but she needs to meet him before their relationship can really go anywhere.
You can sum Lucas up in one word — HOT!!!! I always love a tortured bad boy. The relationship between Jacqueline and Lucas is very steamy and was fun to read. At first they both play a little hard to get but eventually they can’t deny their attraction. The buildup and anticipation is done perfectly. At first Jacqueline wants just a rebound to help get over Kennedy, but as she spends more time with him she starts to really fall for him. But Lucas has a past and he doesn’t open up easily to anyone. Can Jacqueline break through his walls and make their relationship work?
This was such a good book. The writing and flow of the book was perfect. I picked this book up and couldn’t put it down until I was finished (which was 2 in the morning). The book covered some very real issues that happen in today’s society, and it really helped me to connect with the story. Everyone has let downs and hurt in their lives, but how you deal with them is what makes you the person you are. I felt that this book nailed this perfectly. The characters felt so real and the way they react and fix their problems felt very genuine. This book was an emotional roller coaster ride and I loved it. I wanted to add a warning that there are some sensitive subjects in this book like rape, sex, vulgarity, and underage drinking so if any of these subjects bother you I would maybe steer clear of reading this one. I honestly can’t say enough good things about this book, so if you are a fan of contemporary books you should really pick this one up.
Notable Scene:
From the corner of my eye, I watched his mouth twitch up on one side. “Do you really want to talk about that?” He maintained the closeness, our torsos pressed together chest to thigh, ostensibly waiting for my answer. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d been so full of pure, unqualified desire.
I swallowed. “As opposed to talking about what?”
He chuckled, and I felt the vibrations of his chest against mine. “As opposed to not talking.” His hands at my waist gripped a little tighter, thumbs pressing into my ribcage, fingers still at my lower back.
I blinked, one moment not understanding what his words implied, and the next knowing unreservedly.
“I don’t know what you mean,” I lied.
He leaned closer still, his smooth cheek whispering against mine as he murmured, “Yes, you do.” Struck again by his scent-clean and subtle, unlike the trendy colognes Kennedy favored, which always seemed to overpower any scent I wore-I felt an impulse to bring my fingertips to his face and trail them over his freshly shaven jaw, the sexy scruff from yesterday gone. His skin wouldn’t redden mine now if he kissed me, hard. I would feel nothing but she mouth on mine-and maybe that slim ring at the edge of his lip…
FTC Advisory: Penguin/Berkley provided me with a copy of Easy. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
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LibraryThing member 4sarad
This is a quick read; finished in a day. I thought the first chapter or two were boring and not very well-written, but after that I got into it. There were several great scenes that had me hooked, but there was also an overload of drama. The secret about his mother was a surprise, but ultimately
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unnecessary. Why can't he just respect women because it's the right thing to do? There doesn't need to be some huge REASON. Overall I got what I expected. Show Less
LibraryThing member paisean13
I really enjoyed this book. I believe the author did a good and realistic job in showing how the main character handled the attempted rape and the aftermath. The main character grew over the course of the book and the male hero was swoon-worthy. I will definitely recommend this read.
LibraryThing member MlleEhreen
Really loved this one. College set romance with some pretty heavy themes - the heroine, Jacqueline, is nearly raped during the first scene and it's not just an excuse for the romantic interest, Lucas, to make a suitably heroic entrance. Jacqueline has to deal with the emotional fallout of her
At first I wondered if Jacqueline was going to be one of those heroines who gets lots of male attention for no good reason. She's got this All American Mr. Perfect ex-boyfriend, Kennedy (handsome, good student, popular in his fraternity, rich), she's got her econ tutor on the hook, and then there's blue-collar perfection Lucas. But the deeper you get into the story, the clearer it is that Jacqueline is a wonderful person. She's mature, studious, a good friend, a good partner...she has flaws, and the fear and shame she feels after the assault damage her confidence, but she's the kind of girl where you actually think BETTER of the guys around her for being interested. Clearly, they've got good taste.
Speaking of Kennedy: he dumped Jacqueline a couple of weeks before the book starts, and recovering from the breakup is a big part of Jacqueline's character arc. Webber could have made Kennedy out to be an irredeemable jerk (the fallout from the assault presents some great opportunities to Kennedy to really step into the role of a villain - the would-be rapist is a frat brother), but instead she made a much better, more realistic choice: he's just not good enough. He wasn't a good enough boyfriend, or lover, or friend. And Jacqueline doesn't need to hate him. She just has to be OVER him.
Lucas, the main love interest, has a whole pile of issues of his own, and the last quarter of the book switches away from Jacqueline's emotional baggage to his. He's a dreamy, dreamy guy - and a total nice guy, too, really sweet - and the way that his relationship with Jacqueline stutters before it really blossoms was realistic and also made the book feel complete.
I recommend this one. It's one of those books where every time the author picks up a familiar theme or romance trope, she handles it with more intelligence and grace than a jaded reader like myself has come to expect. Plus, good page turner and super romantic.
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assault for the rest of the book, when she suffers because the guy who tried to rape her spreads rumors that she's "easy" or when she decides to sign up for self-defense classes, which she goes to consistently and have a refreshingly empowering effect.At first I wondered if Jacqueline was going to be one of those heroines who gets lots of male attention for no good reason. She's got this All American Mr. Perfect ex-boyfriend, Kennedy (handsome, good student, popular in his fraternity, rich), she's got her econ tutor on the hook, and then there's blue-collar perfection Lucas. But the deeper you get into the story, the clearer it is that Jacqueline is a wonderful person. She's mature, studious, a good friend, a good partner...she has flaws, and the fear and shame she feels after the assault damage her confidence, but she's the kind of girl where you actually think BETTER of the guys around her for being interested. Clearly, they've got good taste.
Speaking of Kennedy: he dumped Jacqueline a couple of weeks before the book starts, and recovering from the breakup is a big part of Jacqueline's character arc. Webber could have made Kennedy out to be an irredeemable jerk (the fallout from the assault presents some great opportunities to Kennedy to really step into the role of a villain - the would-be rapist is a frat brother), but instead she made a much better, more realistic choice: he's just not good enough. He wasn't a good enough boyfriend, or lover, or friend. And Jacqueline doesn't need to hate him. She just has to be OVER him.
Lucas, the main love interest, has a whole pile of issues of his own, and the last quarter of the book switches away from Jacqueline's emotional baggage to his. He's a dreamy, dreamy guy - and a total nice guy, too, really sweet - and the way that his relationship with Jacqueline stutters before it really blossoms was realistic and also made the book feel complete.
I recommend this one. It's one of those books where every time the author picks up a familiar theme or romance trope, she handles it with more intelligence and grace than a jaded reader like myself has come to expect. Plus, good page turner and super romantic.
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LibraryThing member Jyl22075
This one goes on the extremely short list of YA books I've read and really enjoyed. As a rule this genre hasn't been particularly great for me, but every once in awhile a book will surprise you. This is one of those times. The characters in this book were extremely well done.
Lucas makes for a
Jacqueline was also really likable. I didn't agree with every decision she made, but I understood them. She was strong and I love that she and her roommate/bff took self-defense classes so they would be able to protect themselves.
I think one of the things I liked most about this book was that it had an overall truthfulness to it. These people seemed like regular college kids.
This book definitely had more angst than I generally like reading, but I still found it engaging and couldn't stop flipping pages.
Lucas makes for a
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swoon-worthy hero with an extremely dark past. I've seen several people refer to him as a bad boy, but I disagree. Having tattoos and driving a motorcycle doesn't automatically make you a bad boy. Lucas is a good guy. He's a good student, he works hard, he cares about people... the way he treated the heroine... just, yes, all good. Jacqueline was also really likable. I didn't agree with every decision she made, but I understood them. She was strong and I love that she and her roommate/bff took self-defense classes so they would be able to protect themselves.
I think one of the things I liked most about this book was that it had an overall truthfulness to it. These people seemed like regular college kids.
This book definitely had more angst than I generally like reading, but I still found it engaging and couldn't stop flipping pages.
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LibraryThing member brandileigh2003
My first thoughts on putting the book down: More please? Unfortunately, this is not a series, but it definitely would make me interested if there was a follow up with the characters. I don't think it is in the cards, but alas, I think this is just my way of expressing how much I liked the
Jacqueline had my sympathy and my cheers from page one. She was a victim and watching her learn about herself and grow through her experiences touched me deeply. Sexual assault is something that hits way too close to home to me and also to probably many other readers. Even if not personally, through a friend or family member. We all think that it won't happen to us, and can all be surprised at the perpetrators at times. It can be people we know and possibly even love... I think that the message ultimately becomes, speak up, get help and stand together strong. It sounds simplistic, but that is really what people need to take away. It is woven beautifully through this story, and Tammara handles it with grace.
Lucas is HOT. He is that bad boy and I want a piece of him, broken, secrets and all. The reasons he does everything is so important and even the moments where I want to doubt him, I still see it all coming together into a picture of a man, with scars, but with a lot of love and things to offer. As much as I like a brooding guy, he turns that into something new and even more awe inspiring. He contributes to others, to helping them while helping himself work through his issues.
The secondary characters were also well crafted. Erin, Jacqueline's roomie, took me a second to warm up to her, but once I did, I loved every scene she was in. She was the right combo of supportive, encouraging, and fun. There was also Benji, who stole the scene in eco class. I loved what he brought to the story, whether a gay token or not. Then, you can't leave out the professor. It was neat how his story tied into "Landon's" and I was not expecting it. Then there is Kennedy. One minute I am thinking he is a butt, then I see a glimmer of the person I think Jacqueline fell for to start with, and then he goes on the rinse and repeat cycle and I want to Gibbs' clipboard to the back of the head again.
So, obviously, I loved the characters. Tammara nailed them and I couldn't take my eyes from their story.
This really was my kind of book--smoking chemistry, issues, a well done main character, and a love interest with protector instincts.
Bottom line: Superb NA contemporary.
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characters and how I was invested in their story. Jacqueline had my sympathy and my cheers from page one. She was a victim and watching her learn about herself and grow through her experiences touched me deeply. Sexual assault is something that hits way too close to home to me and also to probably many other readers. Even if not personally, through a friend or family member. We all think that it won't happen to us, and can all be surprised at the perpetrators at times. It can be people we know and possibly even love... I think that the message ultimately becomes, speak up, get help and stand together strong. It sounds simplistic, but that is really what people need to take away. It is woven beautifully through this story, and Tammara handles it with grace.
Lucas is HOT. He is that bad boy and I want a piece of him, broken, secrets and all. The reasons he does everything is so important and even the moments where I want to doubt him, I still see it all coming together into a picture of a man, with scars, but with a lot of love and things to offer. As much as I like a brooding guy, he turns that into something new and even more awe inspiring. He contributes to others, to helping them while helping himself work through his issues.
The secondary characters were also well crafted. Erin, Jacqueline's roomie, took me a second to warm up to her, but once I did, I loved every scene she was in. She was the right combo of supportive, encouraging, and fun. There was also Benji, who stole the scene in eco class. I loved what he brought to the story, whether a gay token or not. Then, you can't leave out the professor. It was neat how his story tied into "Landon's" and I was not expecting it. Then there is Kennedy. One minute I am thinking he is a butt, then I see a glimmer of the person I think Jacqueline fell for to start with, and then he goes on the rinse and repeat cycle and I want to Gibbs' clipboard to the back of the head again.
So, obviously, I loved the characters. Tammara nailed them and I couldn't take my eyes from their story.
This really was my kind of book--smoking chemistry, issues, a well done main character, and a love interest with protector instincts.
Bottom line: Superb NA contemporary.
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LibraryThing member PrettyDeadly
Literally everyone on my GR friends list gave this a high star ranking. (Okay, there was one three-star review, but it was mostly a positive three stars, so it doesn't count.) I appreciate the message behind this book. I appreciate that the romantic interest was not an abuser hiding behind charming
For the first few chapters I thought I would like it. By the 50% mark, I was unsure - was it me? Was it because I'm not the biggest contemporary fan? Am I reading the wrong, unedited version of this book? But no, it's not me this time. It's the book.
The biggest drawback for the entire thing was that I really couldn't believe any of it was happening. In the opening chapter, Jacqueline (hereby known as Jackie because that's too damn hard to type repeatedly) is assaulted leaving a frat party. She is rescued by the dark, muscular, broody Lucas, who promptly kicks the would-be rapist's ass. He takes her home, and then lurks around the next 100 pages, being his broody self. This part is fine. Someone saved her - that happens. But her reactions to almost being raped (TWICE) are just unrealistic. She does nothing beyond taking a self-defense course on the weekends. She doesn't exhibit any of the behaviors of real-life rape/assault victims, and many times actually puts herself in the same place as her rapist. What's more is that she does not report him, even after the second attempt, because she seems to think that it's all about HER and not HIM and HIS issues and tendency to RAPE.
I couldn't connect to any of the characters - not Jackie, not Lucas. Jackie's character is so bland. She is apparently a musician but there is only one scene where she is playing her instrument. For someone who is a music major, who lives and breathes music, and regrets not going to a music school, she sure spends little time actually playing music. In fact, her whole life seems to surround one thing - and it's not her assault. No, it's the bad-boy lurking at the back of her classroom, and honestly, in the periphery of her entire life. Does no one think it's weird that he's literally EVERYWHERE. I mean, lots of people commented on it, but no one thought it was strange.
Lucas was another one of those boys who are too good to be true. Perfect student, perfect body, tattoos, motorcycle, sensitive and mysterious - and only interested in being with Jackie. (Though I HAVE TO SAY THIS: every time I learned more about him, he did seem like the answer to Travis Maddox. He was everything JM tried to write Travis to be, without the anger issues and abusive tendencies.) However, it turns out that Lucas is a big, giant jerky-jerky liar who lies. And Jackie forgives him! She forgives him! For leading a double life, for lying to her, for betraying her trust!
Later on we learn that Lucas has this horrific past, and it's all the reason why he's so passionate about protecting women and teaching women to protect themselves. I loved that part about him, but honestly, I could have done without the terrible things that happened to him as a child, and really, we DID NOT need those disgusting descriptions of the entire happening. Also: I'm really mad at Jackie for fucking Googling him, instead of letting him come to her with such big confessions.
There were a few other issues - the characterizations of the girls who were attracted to Lucas (down to the fucking barista at Starbucks), the self-centeredness of Jackie; the ridiculous idea that engineering majors and music majors would be required to take the same classes (seriously, why couldn't he be an art major, since he was always sketching, and why did it have to be economics?).
Finally, I thought the writing was seriously lacking. I honestly thought maybe I'd downloaded the unedited version. But no, it was just that bad. For the most part the writing was bland. But interspersed throughout the text were these ridiculous, flowery, ludicrous, over-written sentences. It was like Webber was screaming in my ear, "SEE! I AM A WRITER!" It really ticked me off, and jarred me right out of the story.
I know there is an audience out there for Easy, as evidenced by the overwhelming praise for the book found on Goodreads. Like I said earlier, I do appreciate the message Webber was trying to convey. But I thought the execution was poor. However, I can say this: if you're looking for a decent NA book (hahaha) I would start here.
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good looks and a motorcycle. And I appreciate the female solidarity that came towards the end of the book. But beyond all that, there's nothing I liked about this book.For the first few chapters I thought I would like it. By the 50% mark, I was unsure - was it me? Was it because I'm not the biggest contemporary fan? Am I reading the wrong, unedited version of this book? But no, it's not me this time. It's the book.
The biggest drawback for the entire thing was that I really couldn't believe any of it was happening. In the opening chapter, Jacqueline (hereby known as Jackie because that's too damn hard to type repeatedly) is assaulted leaving a frat party. She is rescued by the dark, muscular, broody Lucas, who promptly kicks the would-be rapist's ass. He takes her home, and then lurks around the next 100 pages, being his broody self. This part is fine. Someone saved her - that happens. But her reactions to almost being raped (TWICE) are just unrealistic. She does nothing beyond taking a self-defense course on the weekends. She doesn't exhibit any of the behaviors of real-life rape/assault victims, and many times actually puts herself in the same place as her rapist. What's more is that she does not report him, even after the second attempt, because she seems to think that it's all about HER and not HIM and HIS issues and tendency to RAPE.
I couldn't connect to any of the characters - not Jackie, not Lucas. Jackie's character is so bland. She is apparently a musician but there is only one scene where she is playing her instrument. For someone who is a music major, who lives and breathes music, and regrets not going to a music school, she sure spends little time actually playing music. In fact, her whole life seems to surround one thing - and it's not her assault. No, it's the bad-boy lurking at the back of her classroom, and honestly, in the periphery of her entire life. Does no one think it's weird that he's literally EVERYWHERE. I mean, lots of people commented on it, but no one thought it was strange.
Lucas was another one of those boys who are too good to be true. Perfect student, perfect body, tattoos, motorcycle, sensitive and mysterious - and only interested in being with Jackie. (Though I HAVE TO SAY THIS: every time I learned more about him, he did seem like the answer to Travis Maddox. He was everything JM tried to write Travis to be, without the anger issues and abusive tendencies.) However, it turns out that Lucas is a big, giant jerky-jerky liar who lies. And Jackie forgives him! She forgives him! For leading a double life, for lying to her, for betraying her trust!
Later on we learn that Lucas has this horrific past, and it's all the reason why he's so passionate about protecting women and teaching women to protect themselves. I loved that part about him, but honestly, I could have done without the terrible things that happened to him as a child, and really, we DID NOT need those disgusting descriptions of the entire happening. Also: I'm really mad at Jackie for fucking Googling him, instead of letting him come to her with such big confessions.
There were a few other issues - the characterizations of the girls who were attracted to Lucas (down to the fucking barista at Starbucks), the self-centeredness of Jackie; the ridiculous idea that engineering majors and music majors would be required to take the same classes (seriously, why couldn't he be an art major, since he was always sketching, and why did it have to be economics?).
Finally, I thought the writing was seriously lacking. I honestly thought maybe I'd downloaded the unedited version. But no, it was just that bad. For the most part the writing was bland. But interspersed throughout the text were these ridiculous, flowery, ludicrous, over-written sentences. It was like Webber was screaming in my ear, "SEE! I AM A WRITER!" It really ticked me off, and jarred me right out of the story.
I know there is an audience out there for Easy, as evidenced by the overwhelming praise for the book found on Goodreads. Like I said earlier, I do appreciate the message Webber was trying to convey. But I thought the execution was poor. However, I can say this: if you're looking for a decent NA book (hahaha) I would start here.
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LibraryThing member MissAliGirl
Easy is not a book I would typically gravitate to. I kept seeing it on blogs I follow and getting great reviews, so I thought I would give it a try. Man, am I glad I did.
I expected this to be a moody, dramatic and depressing book, knowing that rape plays a part in this story. I thought it would be
I was wrong. It' s not really any of those things. It's heartwarming, it's sexy, it's smart.
Jacqueline is a strong young woman. Determined to set her world back on track after the breakup from her long time boyfriend. After a terrible experience at the beginning of the book, she could break down. She doesn't. She's sweet, she's smart, she's stubborn, and she's a bit broken.
Lucas is this amazingly caring and protective guy. His story was heartbreaking and took me somewhere completely unexpected. His affection for Jacqueline is beyond endearing. He's like a big gooey teddy-bear wrapped in this hard bad-boy shell. But he too, is a bit broken.
There is a bit of cat & mouse chase/game that ensues and it was fun to read and oh so reminiscent of my adolescence. It put a smile on my face :)...see?
This story lies in the healing of these two amazing characters. Finding strength and love in each other. Learning to survive their pasts and their heartbreaks. It is such a wonderfully woven tale with some of the steamiest scenes I've read in a while. This is for sure mature YA, Lucas will get that blood flowing ~ trust me!!
Throughout the story the sexual violence is treated with care, delicacy and follow through. I found this so refreshing after reading a few books these past months that did not take quite this level of care. I appreciate how Tammara handled the situations.
I can't really put into words all that I loved about this book. I could not put this book down, nor did I have any desire to. It will stick with me for a long time to come and may be a future re-read. It's the first of Webber's books I've read but I will definitely be reading her work again.
I expected this to be a moody, dramatic and depressing book, knowing that rape plays a part in this story. I thought it would be
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more along the lines of Speak.I was wrong. It' s not really any of those things. It's heartwarming, it's sexy, it's smart.
Jacqueline is a strong young woman. Determined to set her world back on track after the breakup from her long time boyfriend. After a terrible experience at the beginning of the book, she could break down. She doesn't. She's sweet, she's smart, she's stubborn, and she's a bit broken.
Lucas is this amazingly caring and protective guy. His story was heartbreaking and took me somewhere completely unexpected. His affection for Jacqueline is beyond endearing. He's like a big gooey teddy-bear wrapped in this hard bad-boy shell. But he too, is a bit broken.
There is a bit of cat & mouse chase/game that ensues and it was fun to read and oh so reminiscent of my adolescence. It put a smile on my face :)...see?
This story lies in the healing of these two amazing characters. Finding strength and love in each other. Learning to survive their pasts and their heartbreaks. It is such a wonderfully woven tale with some of the steamiest scenes I've read in a while. This is for sure mature YA, Lucas will get that blood flowing ~ trust me!!
Throughout the story the sexual violence is treated with care, delicacy and follow through. I found this so refreshing after reading a few books these past months that did not take quite this level of care. I appreciate how Tammara handled the situations.
I can't really put into words all that I loved about this book. I could not put this book down, nor did I have any desire to. It will stick with me for a long time to come and may be a future re-read. It's the first of Webber's books I've read but I will definitely be reading her work again.
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LibraryThing member sunshinejenn03
Easily one of the best novels I have ever read – er, listened to – Easy by Tammara Webber is emotional, uplifting, and empowering. I think every woman should read it.
Jacqueline Wallace followed her high school boyfriend to college, despite being an incredibly talented musician, where a music
But he did. And the result of that leads her to a Greek party with her roommate, where one of Kennedy’s frat brothers sees an opening to Jacqueline, now that Kennedy is out of the way, for his own twisted agenda.
If you have read other reviews, you know that Easy opens with a near-rape scene. It’s uncomfortable, it’s controversial, but…it’s very real. Some books use rape, or any controversial topic, really, to make the book. And honestly, Easy is no different, but it’s incredibly well-done and delivered with a very specific message that when someone violates your body, you can recover from it if you are empowered to do so. It also shows that rape is not just about the two involved in the encounter: it’s like throwing a pebble into a pond, and watching the ripples spread out, because rape has adverse affects on those around the victim, not just the victim herself. Enter Lucas, bad boy-extraordinaire.
Lucas is the Bad Boy Ever Girl Dreams About, with his broad shoulders, gray eyes and shaggy, dark hair. He is not just a way for Jacqueline to get over Kennedy; he is a savior, he is her outlet for desire, he is her safe zone. He might be everything she ever wanted that she didn’t even know she craved. He is full of his own secrets, and no, he isn’t above reproach, but he walks through life knowing he isn’t perfect, and yet, I think he strives to achieve perfection.
Holy shitballs, I lusted after him.
Jacqueline’s roommate, Erin, is the friend every girl needs. She is brazen and confident, and always has her shit-kicking shoes on, no matter if they are platform heels or not. She’s also incredibly supportive when she finds out about Jacqueline’s attack and urges Jacqueline to become self-reliant and able to defend herself. She’s funny and, while the polar opposite to Jacqueline’s studious, quiet nature, not as brainless as she passes herself off to be in the beginning.
There are a myriad of other characters that really flesh out the story: Buck the Rapist, Kennedy the Ex-Boyfriend, Professor Heller, Mindy the Other Victim, the Greeks, and Landon the Tutor. They were all really great (well, except Buck, what a dickhead!) and they rounded out the story perfectly.
But let me tell you how Easy made me feel:
The first night after listening to the book, I dreamed I was raped. It was that well done and I was that emotionally disturbed by the story that I dreamed about it. I couldn’t get it out of my mind and every chance I had, I was listening to this book. It felt compulsory, like I needed to be there with Jacqueline to go through this time with her. My heart raced through the “pages” with Jacqueline and Lucas, and I railed against the obstacles that faced each of them and kept them from being together where they so obviously belonged. I wanted them together, dammit!
Rape is a very central theme to this story; even if it makes you uncomfortable, I still urge you to read it, because it elaborates how it knits people so closely together, and how a community of friends can build from it. It’s super-rare that a book makes me feel so emotionally attached to its characters and Easy deserves every star it has earned from me.
Narration 4-1-1:
Tara Sands does a great job narrating the audio version of Easy by Tammara Webber. She has a wide range of voices, although she did sometimes mix them up between the characters, which would occasionally throw me off. It didn’t happen often, just enough for me to notice when I got into the story and was able to distinguish who was whom. Her pace and accents were fabulous and I will definitely look for more audios narrated by her.
Jacqueline Wallace followed her high school boyfriend to college, despite being an incredibly talented musician, where a music
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conservatory would have been better suited to her collegiate and musical needs and advancement. She was in love and shunned the criticism of her high school music teachers and her parents. Three years together with her boyfriend Kennedy and she thought she had most of her life figured out; she never thought he would dump her to “bang co-eds with shameless abandon.”But he did. And the result of that leads her to a Greek party with her roommate, where one of Kennedy’s frat brothers sees an opening to Jacqueline, now that Kennedy is out of the way, for his own twisted agenda.
If you have read other reviews, you know that Easy opens with a near-rape scene. It’s uncomfortable, it’s controversial, but…it’s very real. Some books use rape, or any controversial topic, really, to make the book. And honestly, Easy is no different, but it’s incredibly well-done and delivered with a very specific message that when someone violates your body, you can recover from it if you are empowered to do so. It also shows that rape is not just about the two involved in the encounter: it’s like throwing a pebble into a pond, and watching the ripples spread out, because rape has adverse affects on those around the victim, not just the victim herself. Enter Lucas, bad boy-extraordinaire.
Lucas is the Bad Boy Ever Girl Dreams About, with his broad shoulders, gray eyes and shaggy, dark hair. He is not just a way for Jacqueline to get over Kennedy; he is a savior, he is her outlet for desire, he is her safe zone. He might be everything she ever wanted that she didn’t even know she craved. He is full of his own secrets, and no, he isn’t above reproach, but he walks through life knowing he isn’t perfect, and yet, I think he strives to achieve perfection.
Holy shitballs, I lusted after him.
Jacqueline’s roommate, Erin, is the friend every girl needs. She is brazen and confident, and always has her shit-kicking shoes on, no matter if they are platform heels or not. She’s also incredibly supportive when she finds out about Jacqueline’s attack and urges Jacqueline to become self-reliant and able to defend herself. She’s funny and, while the polar opposite to Jacqueline’s studious, quiet nature, not as brainless as she passes herself off to be in the beginning.
There are a myriad of other characters that really flesh out the story: Buck the Rapist, Kennedy the Ex-Boyfriend, Professor Heller, Mindy the Other Victim, the Greeks, and Landon the Tutor. They were all really great (well, except Buck, what a dickhead!) and they rounded out the story perfectly.
But let me tell you how Easy made me feel:
The first night after listening to the book, I dreamed I was raped. It was that well done and I was that emotionally disturbed by the story that I dreamed about it. I couldn’t get it out of my mind and every chance I had, I was listening to this book. It felt compulsory, like I needed to be there with Jacqueline to go through this time with her. My heart raced through the “pages” with Jacqueline and Lucas, and I railed against the obstacles that faced each of them and kept them from being together where they so obviously belonged. I wanted them together, dammit!
Rape is a very central theme to this story; even if it makes you uncomfortable, I still urge you to read it, because it elaborates how it knits people so closely together, and how a community of friends can build from it. It’s super-rare that a book makes me feel so emotionally attached to its characters and Easy deserves every star it has earned from me.
Narration 4-1-1:
Tara Sands does a great job narrating the audio version of Easy by Tammara Webber. She has a wide range of voices, although she did sometimes mix them up between the characters, which would occasionally throw me off. It didn’t happen often, just enough for me to notice when I got into the story and was able to distinguish who was whom. Her pace and accents were fabulous and I will definitely look for more audios narrated by her.
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LibraryThing member Capnrandm
Lucas is smoldering, Landon is adorable, and Buck can go die in a fire. I thought Jacqueline's ex was bad but well written, the casual loss that so characterizes college. I think I would have found more emotional weight in this story without Buck popping up every few chapters to be all rapey, it
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made him less effective as a villain, and the events less a powerful event for Jacqueline to over come and more a foil for Lucas's past trauma. All that being said, this is a lovely romance. In high school I would have shelved this right next to Liz Berry's MEL on my re-read shelf(and EASY would have given me a much relationship guide to follow). Show Less
LibraryThing member Punkfarie
hmmm. where should i start. this book was ok. it was definitely enjoyable and easy to get into. but i have some issues.
1. it reads like a fic. i felt so much deja vu when reading this, like i've read it before, in a fic. not that its bad, just it was kinda off-putting to me.
2. cowboy boots are not
3. sooooo many cliches.
4. i'm not a big fan of stories where there's a rape plot line with a romance plot line.
while this is a good, quick read; it wasn't worth all the gushing i've read about it in the past few weeks.
1. it reads like a fic. i felt so much deja vu when reading this, like i've read it before, in a fic. not that its bad, just it was kinda off-putting to me.
2. cowboy boots are not
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sexy with a hoodie. actually (to me) cowboy boots are not sexy at all, in any way. and i've also never met a guy that has a lip ring that would ever wear cowboy boots. 3. sooooo many cliches.
4. i'm not a big fan of stories where there's a rape plot line with a romance plot line.
while this is a good, quick read; it wasn't worth all the gushing i've read about it in the past few weeks.
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LibraryThing member Punkfarie
hmmm. where should i start. this book was ok. it was definitely enjoyable and easy to get into. but i have some issues.
1. it reads like a fic. i felt so much deja vu when reading this, like i've read it before, in a fic. not that its bad, just it was kinda off-putting to me.
2. cowboy boots are not
3. sooooo many cliches.
4. i'm not a big fan of stories where there's a rape plot line with a romance plot line.
while this is a good, quick read; it wasn't worth all the gushing i've read about it in the past few weeks.
1. it reads like a fic. i felt so much deja vu when reading this, like i've read it before, in a fic. not that its bad, just it was kinda off-putting to me.
2. cowboy boots are not
Show More
sexy with a hoodie. actually (to me) cowboy boots are not sexy at all, in any way. and i've also never met a guy that has a lip ring that would ever wear cowboy boots. 3. sooooo many cliches.
4. i'm not a big fan of stories where there's a rape plot line with a romance plot line.
while this is a good, quick read; it wasn't worth all the gushing i've read about it in the past few weeks.
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