Monday, July 09, 2012

Review: From What I Remember

Book: From What I Remember
Author: Stacy Kramer & Valerie Thomas
Series: N/A
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Publisher: Hyperion
Pages: 462
Source: Hachette Book Group Canada (Thank you so much!!)
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | Amazon CA | The Book Depository | Chapters
Stars: 4.5/5
KYLIE: MEXICO WHAT? I should be putting the finishing touches on my valedictorian speech. Graduation is TODAY, and is this a wedding band on my finger??

MAX: It all started with Kylie's laptop and a truck full of stolen electronics. Okay, it was kind of hot, the way she broke us out like some chick in an action movie. But now we're stranded in Tijuana. With less than twenty-four hours before graduation. Awesome.

WILL: Saving Kylie Flores from herself is kind of a full-time occupation. Luckily, I, Will Bixby, was born for the job. And when I found out she was stuck in Mexico with dreamy Max Langston, sure, I agreed to bring their passports across the border -- but there's no reason to rush back home right away. This party is just getting started.

LILY: I just walked in on my boyfriend, Max Langston, canoodling with Kylie Flores, freak of the century. Still, I can't completely hold it against him. He NEEDS me. It's even clearer now. And I'm not giving him up without a fight.


(summary taken from Goodreads
MY THOUGHTS:  

Oh wow, I have a HUGE and absolute crush on this book! It had me smiling and aching and wishing it could be turned into a movie. I just couldn't get enough!  

Mostly taking place over the span of three days, From What I Remember is told through 5 different POVs which normally wouldn't be my cup of tea, but totally works here! Each of the characters are distinctive and fun and have their own personalities that make it so easy to tell them apart and even easier to connect with them.  

The romance between Kylie and Max starts out rocky but progresses beautifully through whacky events like being kidnapped and taken to Mexico. It's more than your average serious-smart girl and heartthrob jock love story. They compliment and bring out the best in each other, and everything was realistic and sweet and SO genuine! The pacing both with their relationship and the storyline was perfect, and I was never, ever bored!  

But the rest of the characters also stand out and make From What I Remember even stronger than it already is! There's Will, the gay best friend who is literally the funniest guy ever. His love for Kylie and their habit of quoting movie lines to each other made me smile. Somehow I even found myself empathizing with Lily, the resident mean girl. 

Another thing I loved was the amount of self-discovery and growing up in this book. So close to graduation, each of them go through their own epiphanies and growth. I think that this would be the perfect book to read especially if you're a teen who doesn't know where you're going. I was inspired by these characters and I feel everyone will be too! :)

With an amazing cast, a perfect pace, and an absolutely sweet romance, From What I Remember was an entertaining story about self-discovery and unexpected romance. I was captivated for all near-500 pages and I almost wished I could've had more! 

BUY or BORROW?: I love owning this book not just for the big amazing things, but the little amazing things too like the fact that each chapter starts with a quote from a well-known movie. Buy buy BUY! :) 

-Mimi

65 comments:

  1. Loved loved LOVED this book! And it actually took me by surprise that I feel such an enormity of love! But this book had it all, fun, love, heartbreak, tears, growing up, action, drama and a set of characters that was awesome!
    And not to forget those cute movie quotes! Definitely a summer-must-read!

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  2. Great review, Mimi! This book is on my TBR list, and I think it sounds really good. I like multiple POV books if they're done well, and it sounds like it was done well. The cast of characters sounds good. I'll have to pick up a copy of this one and check it out.

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  3. I've got this one on my e-reader, and it sounds like such a cute and fun summer read! Glad you liked it! :)

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  4. Yaaaaayyy! I'm so happy you loved this too, Mimi! I wasn't expecting to really love this book too but everything was just so freaking cute and sweet and sexy! Kylie and Max have a very good chemistry and I love how they both discover so much about themselves through each other. I was so never bored too! Fantastic review, Mimi! :D

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  5. Multiple POVs can be a great way of telling a story if its done right. This sounds like a great read.

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  6. EEEEEE Mimi! I haven't heard of this book before but after reading your review, it sounds like I need to add this book to my TBR and hopefully get the chance to read it soon!

    Fantastic review, Mimi! ♥ Glad you enjoyed it! :)

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  7. This book really didn't seem interesting at first, but I've seen so many positive reviews now! I love that there's loads of character growth in it. Awesome review, Mim! :)

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  8. Squeeee! This sounds like the perfect light, summery read! I missed out on this when it was up on NG and now your review is totally making me regret not snatching it up when I had the chance :S I love that the romance was sweet and realistic, plus the whole self-discovery and inspiration thing makes it sound like a book I'd definitely enjoy! Fantastic review, Mimi! <3 I'm so glad that you loved this!

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  9. I've heard many great things about this book. Though, I will admit that I will probably not read this book anytime soon (doesn't sound like my usual read) but anyway fab review! Glad you enjoyed it so much!

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  10. This one sounds like such a great summer read. I've read lots of positive reviews for it! I was rejected on Netgalley (boo!), but I definitely need to add this to my reading list for next summer (my list for this summer is already out of control!)

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  11. I'm not usually one for multiple POVs either. But I'm in a bit of a character kick at the moment and love books with heaps of characters so I'll probably give this one a try. I hope Kylie really is a super smart girl!

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  12. This book sounds SO cute. I haven't heard of it before! *GASP* Will definitely have to check this out at the end of the year. What a brilliant summer read. Great review!

    Lisa | Read Me Bookmark Me Love Me

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  13. Each chapter starts with a line from a well-known movie?? That's so cool, Mimi!!! This sounds like a mash-up of The Hangover (for teens, of course) and some other movie I can't remember the title of at the moment but has something to do with the MC being kidnappes LOL (x But I totally love the sound of it! I'm a multiple POV girl so I think I'll love this. And an amazing gay best friend who quotes movies lines with Kylie? Luuuuuurve it!

    Fantabulous review, Mimi-Doll!! <3333333 As a teenage girl, I'm looking for a little future inspiration and I think I'll be able to find it here! Officially added this to my next to-buy list! (;

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  14. Movie quotes at the beginning of each chapter? Awesome!!!!!!! I'm glad this book has great characters! I definitely want to try it to see if I love the story. Especially when you made it clear that Matt and Kylie were kidnapped. wonderful review!!

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  15. I'm really glad that you liked this one ! It was so much fun to read! It was almost like watching a movie.
    Reading your review makes me want to read the book all over again, Mimi. :)
    I loved Will too. He was too wacky ! :)
    Lovely review, Mimi ! :D

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  16. Excellent choice of book Mimi! I think I am going to love this book. I can't wait to get a copy of this. I love story of survival and friendship.

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  17. That cover looks like a movie poster and I adore it. I want it, on my wall. :)
    Great review. I cannot wait to read this book. :)

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  18. I cannot wait to read this Mimi!!!! Both you and Danny from Bewitched Bookworms have raved about this book and I absolutely have to pick it up:) Normally the 5 POVs would bother me as well, but I'm so glad to know in this case they work really well and add to the plot instead of taking away from it. Also, a huge YAY for a sweet romance, I'm so excited to get my hands on this book, fabulous review as always my friend:)

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  19. I need to read this book - sounds perfect for summer and is that a chihuahua I see on the cover? :D I love how it's told from FIVE POVs - I'm glad it didn't stress you out and I'm even more curious to see how it worked nicely! I really want to see the romance blossom between Kylie and Max too - they were kidnapped and taken to Mexico? Wow, how thrilling! Since you were captivated by all its near-500 pages, I'm convinced I will enjoy this! *adds to wishlist*

    Another beautiful, lively review from one of my favourite bloggers :D <3

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  20. Sounds adorable; I haven't heard too much about this book yesterday but it sounds like the kind of fun contemporary I'll enjoy. Also probably a great read for the summer!

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  21. OMG! I've had this book on my NEED TO OWN list since I first saw it!!!!! I'm so psyched to hear its as good as I hoped it would be!!!! Awesome review doll! As usual!

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  22. Wow, you don't find many contemps with near-500 pages! I love the sound of it too. And I'm glad the characters were strong - that really affects a story. Great review, Mimi!

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  23. oh holy cow MIMI!!!! you and your awesome reviews are always making my day! truth be told, whn I saw the cover of this book and read the premise... I wasn't very interested, but now? DUDE! Im sold! the many differents pov reminds me of Take a Bow which I TOTALLY love!! it seems that this book is another awesome piece of contemporary read! specially for summer =D kyaaaaaaa!! my dear! this week Im reading My Life Next Door thanks to you!! I got my copy last week hell yeah!!
    thnx for the awesome reivew huhuhu!!!

    love you!! take care ^.^ muah! XOXOXOXOXXOXOXO

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  24. "With an amazing cast, a perfect pace, and an absolutely sweet romance, From What I Remember was an entertaining story about self-discovery and unexpected romance." Mimi, you totally know how to get me to check out books! This one seems like such a fun, amazing contemporary! Adding it to my wishlist now :)

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  25. I agree I don't have any book with so many POV, but it's nice it's not a problem here. I didn't know this book, but it sounds really nice. Gkad you enjoyed it mimi! And well an amazing cast is always so perfect lol. Great review!

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  26. WHOOOHOOO!! I've heard about a bazillion GREAT things about this book, and your review totally added to that - I'm definitely definitely DEFINITELY reading it!! :D I love how you described the romance...and I can't wait to soak in this awesome-sounding story!

    Thanks for the great review, MIMI! <3

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  27. I've heard sooo many good things about this book! I wouldn't usually go for something like this but it sounds too fun to ignore. ;) I haven't even read it yet but can tell it would be an entertaining movie! I'm glad you liked it, Mimi! Amazing review! :)

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  28. Eeeep, this book sounds so awesome! :D I'm in a contemporary mood, so this book seems like a perfect fit for me~ <3 I love how you mentioned the fact that there seems to be a LOT of character development and a sweet as candy romance! :D The last thing I want is underdeveloped characters who don't mature at ALL. x-x And you know me, I LOVE MY romance. <3 So I want to read this book even more! :3

    Thank you for the lovely review, Mimi! It's so nice to read your thoughts~ <3

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  29. I LOVE books that start with quotes...like you said, it might be a small thing, but it makes me want this even more. I think I would really enjoy it. I'm glad it was a fun read, with a lot of self-discovery, and I like that the various point of views worked.

    -Lauren

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  30. Aww this one sounds like a lot of fun. Stranded in Mexico? Gotta get home before graduation? Sounds like an interesting adventure and you already know I'm a fan of the alternating POV's. It gives me a look at the story from several different perspectives which makes it more well-rounded usually.

    Will and Lily sound like great friends and now I want to know what movies they quote at each other!

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  31. Hmmm, I hadn't even heard of this book before, but it sounds hilarious and fun. I think this will definitely be one to read. Thanks for the great review Mimi!! Glad you enjoyed it so much!

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  32. I don't know how you do it all the time. Sometimes, there are these books and I'm like 'nehhh, not my thing' and then I go to your blog and damn - you make these book sounds like the best books in the world! And you always get me excited, even when I had my doubts about it :p I'm still not a 100% sure about this one, but I'm now so far that I'm willing to check it out :)

    Thanks for your awesomeness (L)

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  33. Hi Mimi! I am Back! I was so happy to snatch this up from Netgalley before I left on vacation and now your review makes me want to dive right in and read it now. I have read nothing but glowing reviews on this one! It sounds so fun! Hope you are enjoying your summer break :)

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    Replies
    1. I got this one too, Mimi and now I'm so glad I did. This sounds like loads of fun! I can't
      wait to read it now! Brilliant review lovely! :)

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  34. THIS BOOK IS SPEAKING TO ME. The second amazing review I've read in as many days and I am totally, 114% crazy eager to read this!! It sounds like so much FUN and I love how you describe the romance between Kylie and Max <333 All the characters sound SO enjoyable and distinct and... crap. I need this like, NOW, don't I? Of course I do. AWESOME REVIEW, MIMI!

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  35. YAY! I'm so glad you have a crush on this book because I have one too! It took me by surprise and I just really enjoyed it. I love the amount of self-discovery and growing up too, I thought it had a really sweet message. WONDERFUL review, Mimi. <3

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  36. I love books about crazy nights and graduations. Five different POVs is a lot but glad to hear it really works and that each character has very distinctive personalities. Sounds like a crazy three days for these characters but nice to know they also grow. Should be a fun read!

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  37. Eeeeeep! I adore book crushes and this one sounds totally crush-worthy! Throw in kidnappings, a funny best friend, and what sounds like the perfect romance, and I am there! Thank you so much for the fabulous review, lovely! <3

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  38. wow... this sounds SOOO CUTE! I HAVE to add it to my TBR pile! You just had me smiling and spazzing with you right there! I really like books with different POV's as well, so that should be interesting! Thanks for the great review Mimi! :D
    - Farah @MajiBookshelf

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  39. Another thing I loved was the amount of self-discovery and growing up in this book. So close to graduation, each of them go through their own epiphanies and growth.

    So, this right there is convincing me to add it to my TBR. I haven't heard of this one and probably would have passed it by, but you got me with the character growth, and the sweet romance. FAB review, Mimi!

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  40. I always LOVE how your posts are always flooded with comments, on your next visit to our blog you have to share at least one of your secrets...

    Anyway, looking at this it does have a movie feel to it like Yhe Breakfast Club or Can't Hardly Wait (you might be too young to know these movies). I love books like this, so much fun to read.

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  41. I loved this too! Km totally with you about the POV's, it worked in this one! And the characters were SO well done! I've heard the movie rights have sold and I can SO see it as a movie!

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  42. This sounds awesome! I like a book that'll keep me laughing from the beginning til end. It's on its way to my wishlist now. Thank you for sharing, Mimi!

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  43. I'm very excited to read this novel. I've heard great reviews about it. I'm glad to hear that you rated it 4.5/5! Thanks for the great review!

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  44. OHHHHHHH MIMI, THIS SOUNDS ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS <3 I love reading your reviews because you always sound so excited and enthusiastic (I'm thinking this translates to real life too?) and this one is no different. I can already picture this one as a movie and I haven't even read it yet! I actually love multiple POVs and although 5 sounds a bit much, I'll take your word for it. The relationships between the characters sound so sweet and fantastic and I can't wait to read them myself! Hahaha, I like Will already, just from the summary x)

    This sounds like the absolute perfect summer read - sign me up!

    Sonia

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  45. MIMI! I need to create a new foler in my feed reader for you. Something like: watch out, wallet emptier alert :P

    AJHFAADHG! YOU! WITH YOUR REVIEWS! This sounds like so much fun! xx

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  46. I haven't heard of this one, but it sounds great. I like sweet romances and a fast pace.
    thanks for review,
    Brandi from Blkosiner’s Book Blog

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