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Boyfriend / Trouble #1
Trouble from the Start
Avery knows better than to fall for Fletcher, the local bad boy who can’t seem to outrun his reputation. Fletcher knows he shouldn’t bother with college-bound, daughter-of-a-cop Avery. But when their paths cross, neither can deny the spark. Are they willing to go against everything and let their hearts lead the way? Or are they just flirting with disaster?
Trouble from the Start releases simultaneously with companion novel The Boyfriend Project. These heartwarming paperback originals are the perfect summer reads, great for fans of Jennifer Echols, Lauren Barnholdt, and Susane Colasanti.
Trouble from the Start releases simultaneously with companion novel The Boyfriend Project. These heartwarming paperback originals are the perfect summer reads, great for fans of Jennifer Echols, Lauren Barnholdt, and Susane Colasanti.
400 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2015
16 people are currently reading
2269 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Hawthorne
30 books1,614 followersaka Jade Parker and also writes with her son as J.A. London
(also writes romance under Lorraine Heath)
Rachel Hawthorne, who also writes as Lorraine Heath and Jade Parker, is the daughter of a British beauty (her mother won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero-who played the Joker on the old Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Herts, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan. She enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She writes for both adult and young adult readers. She received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Americana historicals. Her novels have been recognized with a RITA, Romance Writers of America’s most prestigious award for excellence, a HOLT medallion award honoring outstanding literary fiction, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, five Texas Gold Awards, the Golden Quill Award, the Rising Star Award as well as other awards and recognitions. Her novels have been selections of the Doubleday and Rhapsody Book Club. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA Today, Waldenbooks, and most recently, the New York Times.
(also writes romance under Lorraine Heath)
Rachel Hawthorne, who also writes as Lorraine Heath and Jade Parker, is the daughter of a British beauty (her mother won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero-who played the Joker on the old Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Herts, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan. She enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She writes for both adult and young adult readers. She received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Americana historicals. Her novels have been recognized with a RITA, Romance Writers of America’s most prestigious award for excellence, a HOLT medallion award honoring outstanding literary fiction, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, five Texas Gold Awards, the Golden Quill Award, the Rising Star Award as well as other awards and recognitions. Her novels have been selections of the Doubleday and Rhapsody Book Club. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA Today, Waldenbooks, and most recently, the New York Times.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
August 31, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to HarperCollins and Edelweiss.)
“I don’t want a boyfriend. I want the right boyfriend.”
This was a YA contemporary romance story, about a good girl, and a bad boy.
Avery was very studious, and liked to do the right thing. She worked hard, and even helped other people, but hadn’t had much time for partying or a boyfriend, and although that wasn’t going to change overnight, she wanted to at least get a chance at being in love before she went to college.
“I’d spent way too much time studying and not enough partying, I didn’t know any of these people well enough that they were going to include me in their little circles.”
Fletcher had had big problems at home with his dad, and I felt quite sorry for him with all the abuse he’d had to put up with. It did seem like some of his badness was probably down to this really, and he seemed to be a really nice person under his bad exterior.
“At least cars can’t express their disappointment in you.”
The storyline in this did seem a bit predictable with the whole ‘good girl falls in love with bad boy’ thing going on, and the way that Feltcher ended up living above Avery’s parent’s garage reminded me a bit of The Summer I Found You by Jolene Perry. I did find some of this pair’s decision making skills a bit suspect at times though; who gets on the back of a motorcycle for this first time when they are totally drunk? And who thinks it’s a good idea to put a drunk girl on the back of their motorcycle?
“So… are you a novice at riding a motorcycle?”
I considered lying, but I was past the point of thinking anything I did was going to impress him. Not that I wanted to. “It’ll be my first time.”
His grin grew wider. “I like taking girls on their first ride.”
There was romance between the couple, with a nice scene where they get caught on Kiss-Cam at a Ball game.
“His hand snaked around the back of my neck and he planted a kiss on me that I thought might melt the camera lens.”
The ending to this was okay, and I was glad that things worked out for this pair.
6 out of 10
“I don’t want a boyfriend. I want the right boyfriend.”
This was a YA contemporary romance story, about a good girl, and a bad boy.
Avery was very studious, and liked to do the right thing. She worked hard, and even helped other people, but hadn’t had much time for partying or a boyfriend, and although that wasn’t going to change overnight, she wanted to at least get a chance at being in love before she went to college.
“I’d spent way too much time studying and not enough partying, I didn’t know any of these people well enough that they were going to include me in their little circles.”
Fletcher had had big problems at home with his dad, and I felt quite sorry for him with all the abuse he’d had to put up with. It did seem like some of his badness was probably down to this really, and he seemed to be a really nice person under his bad exterior.
“At least cars can’t express their disappointment in you.”
The storyline in this did seem a bit predictable with the whole ‘good girl falls in love with bad boy’ thing going on, and the way that Feltcher ended up living above Avery’s parent’s garage reminded me a bit of The Summer I Found You by Jolene Perry. I did find some of this pair’s decision making skills a bit suspect at times though; who gets on the back of a motorcycle for this first time when they are totally drunk? And who thinks it’s a good idea to put a drunk girl on the back of their motorcycle?
“So… are you a novice at riding a motorcycle?”
I considered lying, but I was past the point of thinking anything I did was going to impress him. Not that I wanted to. “It’ll be my first time.”
His grin grew wider. “I like taking girls on their first ride.”
There was romance between the couple, with a nice scene where they get caught on Kiss-Cam at a Ball game.
“His hand snaked around the back of my neck and he planted a kiss on me that I thought might melt the camera lens.”
The ending to this was okay, and I was glad that things worked out for this pair.
6 out of 10
July 13, 2023
Trouble from the Start was a very cliché YA contemporary high school romance, but it was still a cute and light read.
I've been in a reading slump for a while, and pegged it down to reading too much fantasy lately. So I went to the library with my best friend, and told her to pick out some random contemporary reads for me. That's how I ended up with this book in my hands. I started reading it that night and finished it the next day.
Avery is a very smart girl with a bright future ahead of her. Her best friend has a wonderful, sweet and caring boyfriend, and Avery can't wait to find a boyfriend and fall in love too, but she's waiting for college since she'll have so much more choice there. But then she meets Fletcher Thomas, the "bad boy" of the town who takes her home one night when she's very drunk. Avery never thinks she'll see him again after that, but then her parents take him in for their summer project - where they take in delinquents or kids whose parents have deserted them and give them a home for the summer, showing them what real family life is like. Avery knows better than to fall for Fletcher, the local bad boy who can’t seem to outrun his reputation. Fletcher knows he shouldn’t bother with college-bound, daughter-of-a-cop Avery. But with both Fletcher and Avery in such close proximity to each other, the two of them may no longer be able to deny their attraction. Are they willing to go against everything and let their hearts lead the way? Or are they just flirting with disaster?
I especially loved the character development and the messages in this book. Avery thinks she knows everything there is to know about Fletcher - he's the town bad boy, he's a shady character and a criminal, he gets all the girls, he doesn't care about anyone except himself, he's likely to end up in prison, etc. But as she gets to know Fletcher, she realises that appearances are not always what they seem, and that Fletcher has a heart of gold underneath his tough exterior. This trope has been written about a thousand times, but I enjoyed how the author really brought it across as one of the main messages. Avery develops very much as a MC too - she used to care very much about her reputation and what her parents thought of her, so much so that she was reluctant to tell her parents she was dating Fletcher. However, she ended up realising that her reputation or what her parents (and other people) thought of her wasn't the most important thing in the world, and what truly mattered was her own happiness.
This book sends all the right messages and is a quick and cute read filled with loads of fun. I intend to pick up its companion novel The Boyfriend Project really soon!
ACTUAL RATING: 2.5 stars
I've been in a reading slump for a while, and pegged it down to reading too much fantasy lately. So I went to the library with my best friend, and told her to pick out some random contemporary reads for me. That's how I ended up with this book in my hands. I started reading it that night and finished it the next day.
Avery is a very smart girl with a bright future ahead of her. Her best friend has a wonderful, sweet and caring boyfriend, and Avery can't wait to find a boyfriend and fall in love too, but she's waiting for college since she'll have so much more choice there. But then she meets Fletcher Thomas, the "bad boy" of the town who takes her home one night when she's very drunk. Avery never thinks she'll see him again after that, but then her parents take him in for their summer project - where they take in delinquents or kids whose parents have deserted them and give them a home for the summer, showing them what real family life is like. Avery knows better than to fall for Fletcher, the local bad boy who can’t seem to outrun his reputation. Fletcher knows he shouldn’t bother with college-bound, daughter-of-a-cop Avery. But with both Fletcher and Avery in such close proximity to each other, the two of them may no longer be able to deny their attraction. Are they willing to go against everything and let their hearts lead the way? Or are they just flirting with disaster?
I especially loved the character development and the messages in this book. Avery thinks she knows everything there is to know about Fletcher - he's the town bad boy, he's a shady character and a criminal, he gets all the girls, he doesn't care about anyone except himself, he's likely to end up in prison, etc. But as she gets to know Fletcher, she realises that appearances are not always what they seem, and that Fletcher has a heart of gold underneath his tough exterior. This trope has been written about a thousand times, but I enjoyed how the author really brought it across as one of the main messages. Avery develops very much as a MC too - she used to care very much about her reputation and what her parents thought of her, so much so that she was reluctant to tell her parents she was dating Fletcher. However, she ended up realising that her reputation or what her parents (and other people) thought of her wasn't the most important thing in the world, and what truly mattered was her own happiness.
This book sends all the right messages and is a quick and cute read filled with loads of fun. I intend to pick up its companion novel The Boyfriend Project really soon!
ACTUAL RATING: 2.5 stars
March 18, 2015
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Trouble From the Start by Rachel Hawthorne
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: April 28, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
Summary (from Goodreads):
One of two companion novels from beach-read favorite Rachel Hawthorne, this cute, romantic paperback original is about a good girl who falls for a bad guy.
Avery knows better than to fall for Fletcher, the local bad boy who can’t seem to outrun his reputation. Fletcher knows he shouldn't bother with college-bound, daughter-of-a-cop Avery. But when their paths cross, neither can deny the spark. Are they willing to go against everything and let their hearts lead the way? Or are they just flirting with disaster?
Trouble from the Start releases simultaneously with companion novel The Boyfriend Project. These heartwarming paperback originals are the perfect summer reads, great for fans of Jennifer Echols, Lauren Barnholdt, and Susane Colasanti.
What I Liked:
This book was really sweet, just what I needed at the moment. Think of this one along the lines of My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick, or Through To You by Lauren Barnholdt. This is a YA contemporary romance novel with an extremely likable female protagonist, an intriguing but not-too-cliche male protagonist, and just enough issues and feels to make this book a great one, not overly cliche or terribly heartbreaking or anything.
Avery is third in her class (hey, like I was!), not too far behind the one and two (same here, girl!). She's a grammar nerd, a tutor, a girl who follows the rules and wants to make her parents proud (... like me. This girl and I would get along so well. WE ARE CARBON COPIES). Fletcher, on the other hand, might not graduate. He walks around with fresh bruises and a cocky, God's-gift-to-females attitude.He doesn't like commitment, and he likes "easy" girls. When Avery's cop (detective, actuall) father brings Fletcher to their home (he does that every summer, bring home troubled kids to the home, get them on their feet), Avery is shocked. But Avery and Fletcher start to get to know each other, and sparks fly. Fletcher knows he shouldn't mess with Avery, daughter of the cop who save his life, but Avery wants Fletcher, and he wants her.
As you can tell, I really liked Avery. I could easily, VERY easily relate to her. She's a nerd, very honest, very hardworking, very driven. She's third in her class, but not by much. We differ on that - she's comfortable being third (she doesn't have to do a speech at graduation), whereas I was a smidgen bitter about it (I was SO CLOSE to being number two, and number two and number one weren't that far apart either. Ugh.). She tutors in her free time, as a volunteer (as I did/do). She loves learning, and helping others, and being just plain nice. This girl is my clone.
Avery has never had a boyfriend. She's never done the deed. She doesn't drink (though, at the party in the beginning of the book, she did). She doesn't break the rules, she doesn't want to disappoint her parents. She wants a boyfriend, but she wants the right boyfriend. She's very much a one-guy girl. I have so much respect for this girl, and not just because she's like me.
I'm a sucker for good (nerd) girls and bad boys falling for each other. Mostly because that's the story of my life, but even before I went through this, I'd always liked this type of romance. There's something magical about opposites attracting. Something about two people balancing each other. One is super crazy fun, the other is super rational. They push each other - one doesn't try to fix the other, or vice versa. It's like a mutual desire to want to be better, and to push the other.
I really liked Fletcher. He's had a rough childhood, with his mother dead (at a young age), and his father an abusive drunkard. Avery's father catches Fletcher in the middle of doing something bad, and her father reaches out to him and has him stay with the family. Fletcher is a guy of few words, very closed off and unwilling to trust people. He has no problems with girls, but he's always felt something towards Avery. She's always been nice to him, and yet, she doesn't cut him any slack. She's not easy, but he doesn't see her as a challenge. He sees her as someone he cares about too much - but he's no good for her.
I love their story, romance and friendship. They're friends at first. Avery is sure that Fletcher wants nothing to do with her, and she's not in love with him from the start (no insta-love). She likes him as a person - and he likes her as a person. They're friends... until something happens, Fletcher is emotionally hurting, and they kiss. Then things get a bit awkward, but they go to pretending to be friends again. But we all know they're interested in each other, even if they're both avoiding the idea of being together, for different reasons.
The story is pretty romance-based, but there is so much else going on. This book takes place during the last week of senior year, and everyone is scrambling to take final exams, and then graduate. Fletcher is in jeopardy of not graduating. Meanwhile, Avery is tutoring others to help them pass their finals and graduate. Fletcher's father makes an appearance towards the middle of the book, and things start to pick up, outside of academics and the romance. But they're all intertwined.
This book hits on certain themes important to teenagers and young adults today. Reputation is one of them - Avery's reputation at the beginning of the story is in danger a bit, because of a rumor and a bet. Things are cleared up, but it goes to show how one small, insignificant decision could change the way people see you - whether the rumor is true or not.
This story has a great flow to it. There is no insta-love, no love triangle, no insane characters or cliches in relationships. I love Avery's best friend, Kendall. This is a great example of a healthy female friendship. And Kendall has a boyfriend, Jeremy, who is really sweet.
The story ends nicely, romance and family issues and graduation and everything. It's a bit cookie-cutter perfect in some areas, but I was so pleased that things worked out (it seemed like some issues would be permanent, but not so), so I didn't mind. This is definitely a contemporary romance novel that I could relate to, and that I enjoyed.
What I Did Not Like:
I can't think of anything specific to say here - I really enjoyed this book! See, I can enjoy contemporary!
Would I Recommend It:
I liked this book a lot, so I would recommend it! It's a sweet contemporary romance novel, not bogged down by angsty romance or cliches or terribly tough issues that make everything heartbreaking or tragic. And hey - if I liked this one, me being someone who is hit or miss with contemporary novels, then you might enjoy it too!
Rating:
4 stars. I really enjoyed this book! Definitely a favorite YA contemporary romance read for the year so far. I'm not as interested in The Boyfriend Project, which is the companion to this book, and features Kendall and Jeremy (who have been together for quite some time), but I might give it a shot! This book though, this one was wonderful.
Trouble From the Start by Rachel Hawthorne
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: April 28, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
Summary (from Goodreads):
One of two companion novels from beach-read favorite Rachel Hawthorne, this cute, romantic paperback original is about a good girl who falls for a bad guy.
Avery knows better than to fall for Fletcher, the local bad boy who can’t seem to outrun his reputation. Fletcher knows he shouldn't bother with college-bound, daughter-of-a-cop Avery. But when their paths cross, neither can deny the spark. Are they willing to go against everything and let their hearts lead the way? Or are they just flirting with disaster?
Trouble from the Start releases simultaneously with companion novel The Boyfriend Project. These heartwarming paperback originals are the perfect summer reads, great for fans of Jennifer Echols, Lauren Barnholdt, and Susane Colasanti.
What I Liked:
This book was really sweet, just what I needed at the moment. Think of this one along the lines of My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick, or Through To You by Lauren Barnholdt. This is a YA contemporary romance novel with an extremely likable female protagonist, an intriguing but not-too-cliche male protagonist, and just enough issues and feels to make this book a great one, not overly cliche or terribly heartbreaking or anything.
Avery is third in her class (hey, like I was!), not too far behind the one and two (same here, girl!). She's a grammar nerd, a tutor, a girl who follows the rules and wants to make her parents proud (... like me. This girl and I would get along so well. WE ARE CARBON COPIES). Fletcher, on the other hand, might not graduate. He walks around with fresh bruises and a cocky, God's-gift-to-females attitude.He doesn't like commitment, and he likes "easy" girls. When Avery's cop (detective, actuall) father brings Fletcher to their home (he does that every summer, bring home troubled kids to the home, get them on their feet), Avery is shocked. But Avery and Fletcher start to get to know each other, and sparks fly. Fletcher knows he shouldn't mess with Avery, daughter of the cop who save his life, but Avery wants Fletcher, and he wants her.
As you can tell, I really liked Avery. I could easily, VERY easily relate to her. She's a nerd, very honest, very hardworking, very driven. She's third in her class, but not by much. We differ on that - she's comfortable being third (she doesn't have to do a speech at graduation), whereas I was a smidgen bitter about it (I was SO CLOSE to being number two, and number two and number one weren't that far apart either. Ugh.). She tutors in her free time, as a volunteer (as I did/do). She loves learning, and helping others, and being just plain nice. This girl is my clone.
Avery has never had a boyfriend. She's never done the deed. She doesn't drink (though, at the party in the beginning of the book, she did). She doesn't break the rules, she doesn't want to disappoint her parents. She wants a boyfriend, but she wants the right boyfriend. She's very much a one-guy girl. I have so much respect for this girl, and not just because she's like me.
I'm a sucker for good (nerd) girls and bad boys falling for each other. Mostly because that's the story of my life, but even before I went through this, I'd always liked this type of romance. There's something magical about opposites attracting. Something about two people balancing each other. One is super crazy fun, the other is super rational. They push each other - one doesn't try to fix the other, or vice versa. It's like a mutual desire to want to be better, and to push the other.
I really liked Fletcher. He's had a rough childhood, with his mother dead (at a young age), and his father an abusive drunkard. Avery's father catches Fletcher in the middle of doing something bad, and her father reaches out to him and has him stay with the family. Fletcher is a guy of few words, very closed off and unwilling to trust people. He has no problems with girls, but he's always felt something towards Avery. She's always been nice to him, and yet, she doesn't cut him any slack. She's not easy, but he doesn't see her as a challenge. He sees her as someone he cares about too much - but he's no good for her.
I love their story, romance and friendship. They're friends at first. Avery is sure that Fletcher wants nothing to do with her, and she's not in love with him from the start (no insta-love). She likes him as a person - and he likes her as a person. They're friends... until something happens, Fletcher is emotionally hurting, and they kiss. Then things get a bit awkward, but they go to pretending to be friends again. But we all know they're interested in each other, even if they're both avoiding the idea of being together, for different reasons.
The story is pretty romance-based, but there is so much else going on. This book takes place during the last week of senior year, and everyone is scrambling to take final exams, and then graduate. Fletcher is in jeopardy of not graduating. Meanwhile, Avery is tutoring others to help them pass their finals and graduate. Fletcher's father makes an appearance towards the middle of the book, and things start to pick up, outside of academics and the romance. But they're all intertwined.
This book hits on certain themes important to teenagers and young adults today. Reputation is one of them - Avery's reputation at the beginning of the story is in danger a bit, because of a rumor and a bet. Things are cleared up, but it goes to show how one small, insignificant decision could change the way people see you - whether the rumor is true or not.
This story has a great flow to it. There is no insta-love, no love triangle, no insane characters or cliches in relationships. I love Avery's best friend, Kendall. This is a great example of a healthy female friendship. And Kendall has a boyfriend, Jeremy, who is really sweet.
The story ends nicely, romance and family issues and graduation and everything. It's a bit cookie-cutter perfect in some areas, but I was so pleased that things worked out (it seemed like some issues would be permanent, but not so), so I didn't mind. This is definitely a contemporary romance novel that I could relate to, and that I enjoyed.
What I Did Not Like:
I can't think of anything specific to say here - I really enjoyed this book! See, I can enjoy contemporary!
Would I Recommend It:
I liked this book a lot, so I would recommend it! It's a sweet contemporary romance novel, not bogged down by angsty romance or cliches or terribly tough issues that make everything heartbreaking or tragic. And hey - if I liked this one, me being someone who is hit or miss with contemporary novels, then you might enjoy it too!
Rating:
4 stars. I really enjoyed this book! Definitely a favorite YA contemporary romance read for the year so far. I'm not as interested in The Boyfriend Project, which is the companion to this book, and features Kendall and Jeremy (who have been together for quite some time), but I might give it a shot! This book though, this one was wonderful.
April 28, 2015
Rachel Hawthorne has always been my go to author for whenever I want a sweet and fun romance that is just perfect for anytime of the year. When I saw that she had a companion novel to the Boyfriend League I just knew I needed to read it.
And honestly, I got everything I was looking for in this simple, sweet read that wasn't only a lot of fun, but also had the right amount of realness and romance that made me come back for more. In fact, it was really hard to put down. I truly loved Fletcher and Avery and even now, days later, I still get a smile on my face when I think about them and their story.
I adore reads like this one. I need them, I crave them, and I just can't get enough of them.
Hawthorne truly is one author that I will come back to time and time again simply because I know that she will give me a romance, a friendship, and a book with depth. Something just more than what others can give me. Something that can make me laugh, smile, and even bring tears to my eyes.
This was wonderfully done and I am truly excited to get more from this author. If you haven't tried her, I highly recommend her if you are in the mood for something sweet that will just let you get away for a few hours and give you a satisfying ending when it is over.
And honestly, I got everything I was looking for in this simple, sweet read that wasn't only a lot of fun, but also had the right amount of realness and romance that made me come back for more. In fact, it was really hard to put down. I truly loved Fletcher and Avery and even now, days later, I still get a smile on my face when I think about them and their story.
I adore reads like this one. I need them, I crave them, and I just can't get enough of them.
Hawthorne truly is one author that I will come back to time and time again simply because I know that she will give me a romance, a friendship, and a book with depth. Something just more than what others can give me. Something that can make me laugh, smile, and even bring tears to my eyes.
This was wonderfully done and I am truly excited to get more from this author. If you haven't tried her, I highly recommend her if you are in the mood for something sweet that will just let you get away for a few hours and give you a satisfying ending when it is over.
December 30, 2015
Probably 4.5 stars!
Avery and Fletcher are from two different worlds – She’s straight A’s and college and a family that loves her and he’s… well, he’s not. He’s the guy at school that everyone knows based on reputation. A new girl every weekend and not a care in the world as far as grades go. But when their paths unexpectedly cross, Avery learns you can’t judge a person based on what you hear about them, and maybe Fletcher can teach her something about following her own dreams instead of living up to expectations you think your family has placed on you!
I thought this was a really cute read – while there is some drama in the way of Fletcher’s situation, it’s well done and doesn’t really over-take the story. It’s the catalyst to Avery and Fletcher connecting but it’s not what this story is about.
I sometimes find it hard not to nit pick female characters in YA books, but Avery just struck every wonderful chord with me. I found myself really liking her! I loved her intelligence and I loved how much she cared for everyone around her. Her family situation isn’t typical. Her father is a detective and every summer they have someone staying with them… someone who needs guidance and family. It’s how her brother was adopted into the family. This summer it ends up being Fletcher. She doesn’t know the why’s or how’s, but she doesn’t push Fletcher to spill, she simply is there for him when he needs it and their friendship builds from there. I have to admit there is one part in this book, pretty early on, that I absolutely fell in love with her. She sticks up for herself and tells Fletcher off and it was so amazing to see, but the other side of that situation is that Avery also really worries about her reputation and what people will think of her. She has high expectations for herself, even if they aren’t necessarily things she wants to pursue, she pushes forward because she feels like she’ll let her parents down if she doesn’t. I loved how Hawthorne kind of hid the reasons why she feels this way in the background of the story. It’s not apparent at first, but when her reasons spill out it totally made sense to me.
Fletcher … *sigh* he’s a bad boy you guys. There’s no other way to describe him. But he definitely has a soft side. He likes Avery. More than he should, but feels that there’s no future for them even if he felt he was worthy of her. He’s stuck in one place and she’s moving forward. His story is a pretty sad one, but when he finally realizes he isn’t his father and he doesn’t have to live this life that he feels he’s stuck with it was so amazing.
Fletcher and Avery together were so sweet. I loved that he never pushed her, and I loved that she always pushed him. Pushed him to make something of himself and not let circumstances tie him down. I really love that she respected herself enough to know she wasn’t going to compromise her principles and feelings just because she really liked him too – she told him her expectations relationship wise and if he wasn’t prepared to make a commitment then she was walking away… no matter how hard it would be.
I also really enjoyed Avery’s family in this book as well. It’s nice to see involved parents in YA lit every once in a while. They were just this normal family and that was apparent in much of this story. The expectations Avery felt were her own insecurities within her family instead of the unrealistic expectations of her parents. They want what many parents in real life want for their children… for them to do something they love and to be happy doing it. It was definitely refreshing.
Apparently this is a companion novel so there is another featuring Avery’s best friend coming out as well, but I don’t see why you couldn’t read these as standalones if you wanted. Honestly, Avery’s friend was bugging the crap out of me in this one, but I’m going to check it out because I truly loved Hawthorne’s writing style and I’m hoping she’ll change my mind about her.
I think fans of Sarah Dessen and Susane Colasanti will love this story – if you’re looking for a sweet story of opposites attracting then definitely pick this one up on its release date!
Avery and Fletcher are from two different worlds – She’s straight A’s and college and a family that loves her and he’s… well, he’s not. He’s the guy at school that everyone knows based on reputation. A new girl every weekend and not a care in the world as far as grades go. But when their paths unexpectedly cross, Avery learns you can’t judge a person based on what you hear about them, and maybe Fletcher can teach her something about following her own dreams instead of living up to expectations you think your family has placed on you!
I thought this was a really cute read – while there is some drama in the way of Fletcher’s situation, it’s well done and doesn’t really over-take the story. It’s the catalyst to Avery and Fletcher connecting but it’s not what this story is about.
I sometimes find it hard not to nit pick female characters in YA books, but Avery just struck every wonderful chord with me. I found myself really liking her! I loved her intelligence and I loved how much she cared for everyone around her. Her family situation isn’t typical. Her father is a detective and every summer they have someone staying with them… someone who needs guidance and family. It’s how her brother was adopted into the family. This summer it ends up being Fletcher. She doesn’t know the why’s or how’s, but she doesn’t push Fletcher to spill, she simply is there for him when he needs it and their friendship builds from there. I have to admit there is one part in this book, pretty early on, that I absolutely fell in love with her. She sticks up for herself and tells Fletcher off and it was so amazing to see, but the other side of that situation is that Avery also really worries about her reputation and what people will think of her. She has high expectations for herself, even if they aren’t necessarily things she wants to pursue, she pushes forward because she feels like she’ll let her parents down if she doesn’t. I loved how Hawthorne kind of hid the reasons why she feels this way in the background of the story. It’s not apparent at first, but when her reasons spill out it totally made sense to me.
Fletcher … *sigh* he’s a bad boy you guys. There’s no other way to describe him. But he definitely has a soft side. He likes Avery. More than he should, but feels that there’s no future for them even if he felt he was worthy of her. He’s stuck in one place and she’s moving forward. His story is a pretty sad one, but when he finally realizes he isn’t his father and he doesn’t have to live this life that he feels he’s stuck with it was so amazing.
Fletcher and Avery together were so sweet. I loved that he never pushed her, and I loved that she always pushed him. Pushed him to make something of himself and not let circumstances tie him down. I really love that she respected herself enough to know she wasn’t going to compromise her principles and feelings just because she really liked him too – she told him her expectations relationship wise and if he wasn’t prepared to make a commitment then she was walking away… no matter how hard it would be.
I also really enjoyed Avery’s family in this book as well. It’s nice to see involved parents in YA lit every once in a while. They were just this normal family and that was apparent in much of this story. The expectations Avery felt were her own insecurities within her family instead of the unrealistic expectations of her parents. They want what many parents in real life want for their children… for them to do something they love and to be happy doing it. It was definitely refreshing.
Apparently this is a companion novel so there is another featuring Avery’s best friend coming out as well, but I don’t see why you couldn’t read these as standalones if you wanted. Honestly, Avery’s friend was bugging the crap out of me in this one, but I’m going to check it out because I truly loved Hawthorne’s writing style and I’m hoping she’ll change my mind about her.
I think fans of Sarah Dessen and Susane Colasanti will love this story – if you’re looking for a sweet story of opposites attracting then definitely pick this one up on its release date!
January 5, 2015
Loved the story, the characters, and the messages. Avery is a strong, self-respecting young woman who learns the importance of not judging a book by its cover. I'm a serious fan of Avery and Fletcher right now, and it was great to see Avery's parents actually be wonderful examples of what parents should be like.
July 13, 2020
2020 reread - you’d think I’d be sick of this story after reading it three times now, but nope nope nope. I still love it so much!
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2019 reread - this might be my favorite YA contemporary romance. Love love love!
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Original review - Well this was just the CUTEST! I loved every minute of it. It reminded me a bit of What Light (another book I LOVE) except it’s set during the summer instead of at Christmas.
Avery was great. I loved her. She was so smart (without looking down on others) and funny. She stood up for herself and was independent. I liked her relationship with her best friend as well and I can’t wait to read her story in the companion book.
And Fletcher. Oh my goodness Fletcher. I ADORED Fletcher. He was so sweet and cute and wonderful. A+ swoons!!!! He was a wonderful love interest.
I also liked that Avery had a healthy relationship with her parents and I loved her little brother Tyler. Her dad was funny - the stereotypical overprotective dad.
I flew through the story because I was loving it so much, but at the same time, I didn’t want it to end.
This is exactly what I’m looking for in YA romance.
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2019 reread - this might be my favorite YA contemporary romance. Love love love!
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Original review - Well this was just the CUTEST! I loved every minute of it. It reminded me a bit of What Light (another book I LOVE) except it’s set during the summer instead of at Christmas.
Avery was great. I loved her. She was so smart (without looking down on others) and funny. She stood up for herself and was independent. I liked her relationship with her best friend as well and I can’t wait to read her story in the companion book.
And Fletcher. Oh my goodness Fletcher. I ADORED Fletcher. He was so sweet and cute and wonderful. A+ swoons!!!! He was a wonderful love interest.
I also liked that Avery had a healthy relationship with her parents and I loved her little brother Tyler. Her dad was funny - the stereotypical overprotective dad.
I flew through the story because I was loving it so much, but at the same time, I didn’t want it to end.
This is exactly what I’m looking for in YA romance.
April 8, 2015
I was lucky to receive an ARC of Trouble from the Start.
LOVED it!
Fletcher is a perfect hero - complex, brooding, and mysterious - a tough guy loner. I cried when he stood under the bleachers at graduation. He's a good guy who had some tough breaks. I couldn't help but fall in love with him right along with the heroine.
About the heroine, Avery is smart and likeable. Her family was great, too, especially her adorable little brother. It was refreshing to see a protagonist with solid parents.
LOVED it!
Fletcher is a perfect hero - complex, brooding, and mysterious - a tough guy loner. I cried when he stood under the bleachers at graduation. He's a good guy who had some tough breaks. I couldn't help but fall in love with him right along with the heroine.
About the heroine, Avery is smart and likeable. Her family was great, too, especially her adorable little brother. It was refreshing to see a protagonist with solid parents.
April 19, 2015
This book was a clichéd story and it was a predictable story about a good girl falling in love with a bad boy and all, but overall, it was pretty enjoyable. Full review to come.
May 4, 2015
The review was originally posted on Andi's ABCs
I have been a Rachel Hawthorne fan for a long time. Actually when I first got big into reading 4 years ago Rachel’s books Love on the Lifts, Thrill Ride and Labor of Love were 3 of my favorites. She just has a way about her writing that makes you smile and feel good about life. So when I saw she was finally coming out with a new book I was beyond thrilled. I knew it was what I had been waiting for for a long time. And I can say it lived up to every one of my high hopes and expectations. It was amazingly awesome!
Trouble from the Start is the story of Avery, the daughter of a cop, the good girl. She has done everything by the book for as long as she can remember. She picks the right guys, does the right thing, makes the right friends. But when her path begins to intersect with Fletcher, the local with the bad reputation, Avery starts to develop feelings for the guy she knows she should stay away from. And honestly the last thing Fletcher needs is to date the daughter of a cop. But as they two of them get closer and closer they need to decide is it better to be who they are supposed to be or give in to the feelings of love.
Have I mentioned how much I loved this book? I can’t really describe what it is about a Rachel Hawthorne book that just makes me so happy. She just has this way about writing her characters that pulls you into the story and makes you invested. I mean Avery and Fletcher could not have been farther from each other’s type but Hawthorne made it work. She made the perfect girl see past the bad boy image and the bad boy see more than a goody two shoes. She made me believe they were the perfect match.
Seriously when all was said and done I loved Fletcher and Avery’s relationship so so much. Fletcher really hurt my heart. I wanted to hug him so bad and I was so happy that he ended up with someone like Avery and even Avery’s family, in his corner. The kid had a bad go of things and he just needed people to be there for him. And Avery was pretty great too. She had trouble being herself around people because they all expected her to be a snobby tattletale and she wasn’t . She was smart and dorky but she wasn’t what everyone thought her to be. Reading about her and Fletcher together really filled me with an amazingly happy feeling.
Basically I didn’t realize how much I missed Rachel Hawthorne until I was lucky enough to get to read another Rachel Hawthorne book. She gets teenagers in a way that so few people do. Her books are fun and with heart and a great story. I highly recommend picking up Trouble From the Start and any other Hawthorne books you can get your hands on!
I have been a Rachel Hawthorne fan for a long time. Actually when I first got big into reading 4 years ago Rachel’s books Love on the Lifts, Thrill Ride and Labor of Love were 3 of my favorites. She just has a way about her writing that makes you smile and feel good about life. So when I saw she was finally coming out with a new book I was beyond thrilled. I knew it was what I had been waiting for for a long time. And I can say it lived up to every one of my high hopes and expectations. It was amazingly awesome!
Trouble from the Start is the story of Avery, the daughter of a cop, the good girl. She has done everything by the book for as long as she can remember. She picks the right guys, does the right thing, makes the right friends. But when her path begins to intersect with Fletcher, the local with the bad reputation, Avery starts to develop feelings for the guy she knows she should stay away from. And honestly the last thing Fletcher needs is to date the daughter of a cop. But as they two of them get closer and closer they need to decide is it better to be who they are supposed to be or give in to the feelings of love.
Have I mentioned how much I loved this book? I can’t really describe what it is about a Rachel Hawthorne book that just makes me so happy. She just has this way about writing her characters that pulls you into the story and makes you invested. I mean Avery and Fletcher could not have been farther from each other’s type but Hawthorne made it work. She made the perfect girl see past the bad boy image and the bad boy see more than a goody two shoes. She made me believe they were the perfect match.
Seriously when all was said and done I loved Fletcher and Avery’s relationship so so much. Fletcher really hurt my heart. I wanted to hug him so bad and I was so happy that he ended up with someone like Avery and even Avery’s family, in his corner. The kid had a bad go of things and he just needed people to be there for him. And Avery was pretty great too. She had trouble being herself around people because they all expected her to be a snobby tattletale and she wasn’t . She was smart and dorky but she wasn’t what everyone thought her to be. Reading about her and Fletcher together really filled me with an amazingly happy feeling.
Basically I didn’t realize how much I missed Rachel Hawthorne until I was lucky enough to get to read another Rachel Hawthorne book. She gets teenagers in a way that so few people do. Her books are fun and with heart and a great story. I highly recommend picking up Trouble From the Start and any other Hawthorne books you can get your hands on!
March 28, 2015
I think my options are too similar that I long for something fluffy to read. Behold, I actually have Rachel Hawthorne book tucked in my e-reader waiting to be read. There was never a time that I didn’t enjoy her books. They weren’t mind blowing in any way, but for some who occasionally likes to read light stuff, Trouble from the Start sure covered those aspects.
Ms. Hawthorne books have the right blend, far from perfect but her stories are neither too fluffy or too angsty. Just the right amount for me. In this case, our girl, Avery is our heroine who knows that guys like the main boy, Fletcher—the ‘I knew you were trouble when you walk in’—kind of guy is a trouble. And trouble does this boy have. And to make matters interesting, her father asked him to stay with them for time being while problems were being sorted.
It is something I haven’t read before, and neither are you if you’re the type who already read good girl + bad boy dynamic. There was nothing new yet the story was something I still managed to enjoy. Breezing through the pages while well aware of how things will turn out. Some minor stuff didn’t come as too certain. There were still bits and pieces about the story that were cute enough to help me ignore that tail signs of what this generic plot ought to be.
But what could those be? For one, Avery wasn’t easy. Easy in a way that she will agree as long as matters were convenient. That she wasn’t going in a relationship with half-hearted commitment. Honest as she was realistic. I really liked that about her. She was novice about relationship but smart enough to not to deter of wanting something that she knew she deserved. And then her parents, I liked that little tidbit about them paralleling what these two will eventually have. It was told in such nonchalant way but oh boy did that make me smile!
Fletcher was an ok guy with not so ok family problem; the very reason why he was temporarily residing with Avery’s family. The boy was very flawed, infuriating at times because he sometime used her too opportunely knowing what repercussion in store for her. But guy redeemed himself hence the romance happened. Isn’t what this kind of story aiming for? See, I told you, it was predictable but it was all still fun.
Originally published at The Aeropapers.
Ms. Hawthorne books have the right blend, far from perfect but her stories are neither too fluffy or too angsty. Just the right amount for me. In this case, our girl, Avery is our heroine who knows that guys like the main boy, Fletcher—the ‘I knew you were trouble when you walk in’—kind of guy is a trouble. And trouble does this boy have. And to make matters interesting, her father asked him to stay with them for time being while problems were being sorted.
It is something I haven’t read before, and neither are you if you’re the type who already read good girl + bad boy dynamic. There was nothing new yet the story was something I still managed to enjoy. Breezing through the pages while well aware of how things will turn out. Some minor stuff didn’t come as too certain. There were still bits and pieces about the story that were cute enough to help me ignore that tail signs of what this generic plot ought to be.
But what could those be? For one, Avery wasn’t easy. Easy in a way that she will agree as long as matters were convenient. That she wasn’t going in a relationship with half-hearted commitment. Honest as she was realistic. I really liked that about her. She was novice about relationship but smart enough to not to deter of wanting something that she knew she deserved. And then her parents, I liked that little tidbit about them paralleling what these two will eventually have. It was told in such nonchalant way but oh boy did that make me smile!
Fletcher was an ok guy with not so ok family problem; the very reason why he was temporarily residing with Avery’s family. The boy was very flawed, infuriating at times because he sometime used her too opportunely knowing what repercussion in store for her. But guy redeemed himself hence the romance happened. Isn’t what this kind of story aiming for? See, I told you, it was predictable but it was all still fun.
Originally published at The Aeropapers.
August 1, 2015
I really liked Trouble from the Start! I thought it was going to be the typical good girl falls for bad boy but it wasn't. Avery, while yes being the brainy good girl, she was funny, strong and didn't wallow when the bad guy didn't return her affections. If he said no he's not interested then she went on with her life, she hung out with her friends, worked and even went on dates. She didn't pine after him or started making bad decisions, which I thought was refreshing. And Fletcher wasn't the typical bad boy because although he looked tough on the outside and always covered and bruises and scrapes, he was a sweet, nice guy who's secrets make him that's more than meets the eye. The theme of this story is don't judge people and I think more people should read this book and not judge it for the cover or the synopsis because then you'll be missing out on a cute, sweet story.
June 5, 2015
A sweet, meaningful romance after ages!
Avery is a responsible, intelligent girl. She's respectful to her parents and takes care of her little brother (and her pristine reputation).
Fletcher is a bad boy with a good heart.
At the surface, it seems like they have nothing in common. But they're still perfect for each other. :)
The characters were both amazing, sensible, strong. I read the book slowly and soaked every word, every emotion in and wow, this book gave me tingly toes. In love. <3
Avery is a responsible, intelligent girl. She's respectful to her parents and takes care of her little brother (and her pristine reputation).
Fletcher is a bad boy with a good heart.
At the surface, it seems like they have nothing in common. But they're still perfect for each other. :)
The characters were both amazing, sensible, strong. I read the book slowly and soaked every word, every emotion in and wow, this book gave me tingly toes. In love. <3
July 19, 2016
I love stories of couples from different backgrounds. Avery and Fletcher couldn’t have had more different lives...
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Read my full review, originally posted on Gone with the Words
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Read my full review, originally posted on Gone with the Words
December 26, 2014
very cute story of Avery and Fletcher who start having more interaction before graduation. Fletcher is the bad boy who makes Avery have feelings. They have a rocky romance, and I love her parents.Very cute
November 29, 2014
Sweet, romantic, upbeat read. Just right for this holiday weekend.
Read
March 16, 2015DNF'D at 35%. So ridiculous.
June 22, 2015
This was such a fun, great book! I enjoyed reading it so much, now to read the companion book!
November 5, 2023
Trouble from the Start was your average cliche high school romance novel. It was funny and somewhat entertaining. I loved the characters and how they all had their own backgrounds. I loved the romance and everything else about it. It was a very fun read!
May 7, 2015
I admit, I procrastinated reviewing this... When that happens I have a heard time reviewing things so this will be short and to the point.
This book follows Avery, who is the good girl: good grades, good plan, good friends. And Fletcher who is basically the opposite but, of course, not everything is always what it seems. After she gets drunk at a party a week before graduation Fletcher ends up giving Avery ride a home and it's basically the first time Avery has noticed Fletcher. Every summer Avery's family invites a troubled kid into their house to live with them, usually someone young who hasn't had the best life, this year it's Fletcher.
I liked both Fletcher and Avery, in fact, Fletcher quickly earned a space in my top five book boyfriends. Because he's nowhere near as bad as he first seems and he's sweet and just...swoon. He's a very real character, flawed and full of real feelings and I basically loved him. Avery is awesome too but towards the end of the book I started to dislike her just a tad, she spends most the book trying to convince Fletcher to give them a shot and then she does stupid things. Obviously this book is mostly a love story, and I loved the romance, it wasn't rushed at all and it wasn't overly frustrating with both characters acting super stupid.
Trouble From The Start was a fairly fast-paced book with duel POVs, I did feel like Fletchers chapters were thrown in just because the author couldn't find a better way to show more about him. There weren't nearly as many Fletcher chapters as Avery, and they were always super short. Not exactly pointless but not quite needed either. I really enjoyed them, but it seemed mostly like a plot device to make sure you knew Fletcher was more than he seemed.
This book is also very much a coming of age story, you have Avery, who has always done whatever she can to make her parents proud without even realizing that sometimes that doesn't make her happy. I loved that Avery loved to learn and teach, she wasn't just a good girl because she thought her parents wanted her to be but because she generally likes learning and is just that way. Fletcher has some major family issues and his main thing is he doesn't think he deserves better, doesn't think he deserves to go to college and to have a good life. They help each other out and help each other grow even while spending a big part of the book ignoring each other.
The biggest downside, for me, was the side characters. I didn't really like the side characters. Marc and the girls Avery works with are probably the best and they're barely in it. Avery's best friend Kendall is kind of just a judgemental jerk and Jackson, her boyfriend, is apparently just perfect... Early on it's mentioned that the three of them were friends before Jackson and Kendall started dating and I would have liked to see Jackson and Avery's friendship more, I feel like it would've been more interesting. Kendall was just way too judgemental for me, I didn't like her at all and because of that I probably won't be reading the companion novel that's all about her.
Overall: This review was longer than I was planning... I really enjoyed this one, it's fun and fast. The perfect balance of fluffy and serious, which I love. Avery and Fletcher were both really great characters and there was a fair amount of swooning involved in my reading of this.
Would I Recommend This? Yes.
To Whom? Fans of fun, fluffy/serious YA contemporary.
Will I read more from this author(or series)? Maybe.
This book follows Avery, who is the good girl: good grades, good plan, good friends. And Fletcher who is basically the opposite but, of course, not everything is always what it seems. After she gets drunk at a party a week before graduation Fletcher ends up giving Avery ride a home and it's basically the first time Avery has noticed Fletcher. Every summer Avery's family invites a troubled kid into their house to live with them, usually someone young who hasn't had the best life, this year it's Fletcher.
I liked both Fletcher and Avery, in fact, Fletcher quickly earned a space in my top five book boyfriends. Because he's nowhere near as bad as he first seems and he's sweet and just...swoon. He's a very real character, flawed and full of real feelings and I basically loved him. Avery is awesome too but towards the end of the book I started to dislike her just a tad, she spends most the book trying to convince Fletcher to give them a shot and then she does stupid things. Obviously this book is mostly a love story, and I loved the romance, it wasn't rushed at all and it wasn't overly frustrating with both characters acting super stupid.
Trouble From The Start was a fairly fast-paced book with duel POVs, I did feel like Fletchers chapters were thrown in just because the author couldn't find a better way to show more about him. There weren't nearly as many Fletcher chapters as Avery, and they were always super short. Not exactly pointless but not quite needed either. I really enjoyed them, but it seemed mostly like a plot device to make sure you knew Fletcher was more than he seemed.
This book is also very much a coming of age story, you have Avery, who has always done whatever she can to make her parents proud without even realizing that sometimes that doesn't make her happy. I loved that Avery loved to learn and teach, she wasn't just a good girl because she thought her parents wanted her to be but because she generally likes learning and is just that way. Fletcher has some major family issues and his main thing is he doesn't think he deserves better, doesn't think he deserves to go to college and to have a good life. They help each other out and help each other grow even while spending a big part of the book ignoring each other.
The biggest downside, for me, was the side characters. I didn't really like the side characters. Marc and the girls Avery works with are probably the best and they're barely in it. Avery's best friend Kendall is kind of just a judgemental jerk and Jackson, her boyfriend, is apparently just perfect... Early on it's mentioned that the three of them were friends before Jackson and Kendall started dating and I would have liked to see Jackson and Avery's friendship more, I feel like it would've been more interesting. Kendall was just way too judgemental for me, I didn't like her at all and because of that I probably won't be reading the companion novel that's all about her.
Overall: This review was longer than I was planning... I really enjoyed this one, it's fun and fast. The perfect balance of fluffy and serious, which I love. Avery and Fletcher were both really great characters and there was a fair amount of swooning involved in my reading of this.
Would I Recommend This? Yes.
To Whom? Fans of fun, fluffy/serious YA contemporary.
Will I read more from this author(or series)? Maybe.
October 7, 2015
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: A quick, easy read that’s perfect for sunshine and beach days.
Opening Sentence: “You can’t just stand here, Avery.”
The Review:
Avery is a straight A student. She’s spent her high school experience either studying or with her best friend, Kendall. When it comes time for senior year, she is looking to experience love before college, but she doesn’t want any old boyfriend, she wants the right boyfriend. So when bad boy Fletcher enters her life through her father the cop, she is surprised to feel such a strong connection. But Fletcher only likes easy girls, and he’s no man for commitment – and that’s not even mentioning the bruises that stain his body. If Avery is on the lookout for Mr. Right that Fletcher is about as far as she can get. And yet, the connection is there. Is there any way Avery and Fletcher could work out?
Avery was a relatable character. She liked books (like me), cared about her grades (like me), so she was pretty similar to myself. This made it easy to see from her point of view, and when Fletcher entered the scene, both of us were screaming bad news. But of course, this being a YA romance novel, there’s more to Fletcher under his bad boy exterior.
She was trying to focus on college, and making the most of her time with Kendall, but Fletcher kept entering her head. She just could not block him out, no matter how she tried. I liked the plotline of her relationship with her parents, as well; she wanted to be a teacher and spread her knowledge, but her parents wanted a doctor. She was committed to med school for the reason of making them proud, which wasn’t the best prompt to go into a lifelong career; of course, Fletcher helped her to see the light.
Now let’s talk Fletcher. I’ll tell you that I’m usually soft when it comes to the ones labeled “bad boys” (at least in books), so this was no exception. I didn’t love him as much as I usually do with these types of characters – something was missing, and I don’t know what. I couldn’t really connect to his character, although I did experience some of his emotions, like the turmoil towards his abusive father and his hard childhood. I was a tiny bit annoyed with the “good girl falls for bad boy” cliche going on, as well as the “good girl changes bad boy” one, but what can you do?
Altogether, this was an easy book to read and super quick. It’s pretty easy to get into, and my only problems were the cliches and that I couldn’t fully connect to the love interest (which is probably more my fault than the book’s). Fletcher’s romance with Avery dominated most of the story, so if you are a fan of thrillers and action, you may want to turn away. If you want a fluffy beach read than forge ahead, this is just the book for you.
Notable Scene:
“Thanks.” I forced out.
“Put on the bandage. I promise it’ll make you feel better.”
She walked out, closing the door behind her. I looked at Spider-Man, figured what the hell, lifted my t-shirt, and placed the adhesive bandage over my heart.
Just so it could remind me that I didn’t want to hurt her.
FTC Advisory: HarperTeen provided me with a copy of Trouble from the Start. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: A quick, easy read that’s perfect for sunshine and beach days.
Opening Sentence: “You can’t just stand here, Avery.”
The Review:
Avery is a straight A student. She’s spent her high school experience either studying or with her best friend, Kendall. When it comes time for senior year, she is looking to experience love before college, but she doesn’t want any old boyfriend, she wants the right boyfriend. So when bad boy Fletcher enters her life through her father the cop, she is surprised to feel such a strong connection. But Fletcher only likes easy girls, and he’s no man for commitment – and that’s not even mentioning the bruises that stain his body. If Avery is on the lookout for Mr. Right that Fletcher is about as far as she can get. And yet, the connection is there. Is there any way Avery and Fletcher could work out?
Avery was a relatable character. She liked books (like me), cared about her grades (like me), so she was pretty similar to myself. This made it easy to see from her point of view, and when Fletcher entered the scene, both of us were screaming bad news. But of course, this being a YA romance novel, there’s more to Fletcher under his bad boy exterior.
She was trying to focus on college, and making the most of her time with Kendall, but Fletcher kept entering her head. She just could not block him out, no matter how she tried. I liked the plotline of her relationship with her parents, as well; she wanted to be a teacher and spread her knowledge, but her parents wanted a doctor. She was committed to med school for the reason of making them proud, which wasn’t the best prompt to go into a lifelong career; of course, Fletcher helped her to see the light.
Now let’s talk Fletcher. I’ll tell you that I’m usually soft when it comes to the ones labeled “bad boys” (at least in books), so this was no exception. I didn’t love him as much as I usually do with these types of characters – something was missing, and I don’t know what. I couldn’t really connect to his character, although I did experience some of his emotions, like the turmoil towards his abusive father and his hard childhood. I was a tiny bit annoyed with the “good girl falls for bad boy” cliche going on, as well as the “good girl changes bad boy” one, but what can you do?
Altogether, this was an easy book to read and super quick. It’s pretty easy to get into, and my only problems were the cliches and that I couldn’t fully connect to the love interest (which is probably more my fault than the book’s). Fletcher’s romance with Avery dominated most of the story, so if you are a fan of thrillers and action, you may want to turn away. If you want a fluffy beach read than forge ahead, this is just the book for you.
Notable Scene:
“Thanks.” I forced out.
“Put on the bandage. I promise it’ll make you feel better.”
She walked out, closing the door behind her. I looked at Spider-Man, figured what the hell, lifted my t-shirt, and placed the adhesive bandage over my heart.
Just so it could remind me that I didn’t want to hurt her.
FTC Advisory: HarperTeen provided me with a copy of Trouble from the Start. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
February 13, 2016
I am so disappointed in this book. I really liked the other book: The Boyfriend Project. Of course that one had some ups and downs, but not as much as this one.
Let's just say that I expected something totally different. I expected a book full of gorgeous Fletcher x Avery action, lots of tough guy actions, lots of swooning. Instead, we got drama, drama, drama, expectations and reputations and a 2 people who just seem to want to deny anything about themselves. I wanted the stuff that was hinted in The Boyfriend Project book. Instead, this one takes place before the summer, and apparently way way before Avery x Fletcher happens.
Fletcher and Avery don't get together until page 330 (of 368 pages), but that is broken up quickly because of Avery's amazing tact skills, and then don't really get together until page 362 (of 368). The last chapter is all about them, but of course, because that one fucking switched to fucking 4 weeks later. *rolls eyes* So be warned. If you are like me, coming for some swoony action, then turn away and find another book with that. There are kisses, and there are some romance, but it is mostly just frustrating to see them like one other but not want to get together for all kinds of bull reasons.
And yes, this lay in fault with Avery and Fletcher. I loved these 2 in the previous book, but I hated their guts in this one. Avery for her worthless tact, for her high expectations and her precious holy reputation. For caring more about what her parents want, than what she actually wants. Instead of breaking free and just doing what she wants to do we get this. I was really frustrated with both of them.
Fletcher was nice, I really found his backstory interesting, and it explains a lot about his bad boy attitude. However, the way he was thinking just annoyed me to no end. He kept stalking Avery, drooling over her, but not wanting to make a connection or commitment with her. And yes, I can imagine why, but come on. 330 or should I say 362 pages to finally get him to sway over it and see in that maybe Avery is really worth it? Just too much.
Tyler, Mom, Dad were all interesting characters. I loved that the Dad did his best to be with his family, while also working a lot.
But the story was just too frustrating, it took me 4 days and several tries, to get through this book and finish it.
Would I recommend it? If you don't mind overkill drama, a romance that doesn't get anywhere until the end, then sure read it. Otherwise I would say check out the other book in this series.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
Let's just say that I expected something totally different. I expected a book full of gorgeous Fletcher x Avery action, lots of tough guy actions, lots of swooning. Instead, we got drama, drama, drama, expectations and reputations and a 2 people who just seem to want to deny anything about themselves. I wanted the stuff that was hinted in The Boyfriend Project book. Instead, this one takes place before the summer, and apparently way way before Avery x Fletcher happens.
Fletcher and Avery don't get together until page 330 (of 368 pages), but that is broken up quickly because of Avery's amazing tact skills, and then don't really get together until page 362 (of 368). The last chapter is all about them, but of course, because that one fucking switched to fucking 4 weeks later. *rolls eyes* So be warned. If you are like me, coming for some swoony action, then turn away and find another book with that. There are kisses, and there are some romance, but it is mostly just frustrating to see them like one other but not want to get together for all kinds of bull reasons.
And yes, this lay in fault with Avery and Fletcher. I loved these 2 in the previous book, but I hated their guts in this one. Avery for her worthless tact, for her high expectations and her precious holy reputation. For caring more about what her parents want, than what she actually wants. Instead of breaking free and just doing what she wants to do we get this. I was really frustrated with both of them.
Fletcher was nice, I really found his backstory interesting, and it explains a lot about his bad boy attitude. However, the way he was thinking just annoyed me to no end. He kept stalking Avery, drooling over her, but not wanting to make a connection or commitment with her. And yes, I can imagine why, but come on. 330 or should I say 362 pages to finally get him to sway over it and see in that maybe Avery is really worth it? Just too much.
Tyler, Mom, Dad were all interesting characters. I loved that the Dad did his best to be with his family, while also working a lot.
But the story was just too frustrating, it took me 4 days and several tries, to get through this book and finish it.
Would I recommend it? If you don't mind overkill drama, a romance that doesn't get anywhere until the end, then sure read it. Otherwise I would say check out the other book in this series.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
January 2, 2016
4-1/2 stars.
A modified version of this review also appears on Swoony Boys Podcast, along with a fabulous interview with Rachel Hawthorne.
I've read a few other books from Rachel Hawthorne but I have to admit that this is my favorite. In fact, it's one of my favorite books this year.
Straight-laced daughter of a cop Avery never expects to talk to Fletcher Thomas, let alone fall for him. He's the quintessential bad boy, but when he shows up at her kitchen table, Avery uses her good girl sweetness to help him see that he's more than he thinks he is.
I loved these characters and this story and just everything. NGL, as soon as I read the first chapter and turned the page and saw we get Fletcher's point of view, I literally squealed out loud! I was so excited to see what he was thinking and how he was feeling. It's not very often that an author can pull off the bad boy attitude from his point of view--and still be authentic, but Rachel Hawthorne does it and does it well.
Fletcher is seriously one of my favorite characters ever. He's a bad boy with a reputation but when he gains Avery's attention he wants to change. I love that it's not just for her, though. There's a lot going on with him and I won't spoil it, but his character was multi-dimensional, and I loved him.
I found myself surprised by how much I liked Avery. Every decision she made was authentic to her character and she didn't drive me crazy. She's a sweet girl and a good girl and she's not ashamed of who she is or who she thinks Fletcher can be. Not because she wants to change him but because she knows he can do better. She was realistic and relatable, and I loved her, too!
Together, these two are super cute and sweet and just...*sigh* I loved how their relationship progressed to friends to falling for each other.
Sure, the story's predictable, but guess what? Sometimes you just need a fun, refreshing read, and this story is the perfect little pick me up. With great pacing, relatable characters, and an adorable storyline, Trouble From the Start is perfect for readers who want a sweet contemporary that has substance without being overly dramatic.
A modified version of this review also appears on Swoony Boys Podcast, along with a fabulous interview with Rachel Hawthorne.
I've read a few other books from Rachel Hawthorne but I have to admit that this is my favorite. In fact, it's one of my favorite books this year.
Straight-laced daughter of a cop Avery never expects to talk to Fletcher Thomas, let alone fall for him. He's the quintessential bad boy, but when he shows up at her kitchen table, Avery uses her good girl sweetness to help him see that he's more than he thinks he is.
I loved these characters and this story and just everything. NGL, as soon as I read the first chapter and turned the page and saw we get Fletcher's point of view, I literally squealed out loud! I was so excited to see what he was thinking and how he was feeling. It's not very often that an author can pull off the bad boy attitude from his point of view--and still be authentic, but Rachel Hawthorne does it and does it well.
Fletcher is seriously one of my favorite characters ever. He's a bad boy with a reputation but when he gains Avery's attention he wants to change. I love that it's not just for her, though. There's a lot going on with him and I won't spoil it, but his character was multi-dimensional, and I loved him.
I found myself surprised by how much I liked Avery. Every decision she made was authentic to her character and she didn't drive me crazy. She's a sweet girl and a good girl and she's not ashamed of who she is or who she thinks Fletcher can be. Not because she wants to change him but because she knows he can do better. She was realistic and relatable, and I loved her, too!
Together, these two are super cute and sweet and just...*sigh* I loved how their relationship progressed to friends to falling for each other.
Sure, the story's predictable, but guess what? Sometimes you just need a fun, refreshing read, and this story is the perfect little pick me up. With great pacing, relatable characters, and an adorable storyline, Trouble From the Start is perfect for readers who want a sweet contemporary that has substance without being overly dramatic.
April 28, 2015
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
3.5 stars
**I received an advanced readers copy from HarperTeen via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
If I had to use one word to describe this book I would have to say cute. I can really see young readers liking this story. Although it was at times predictable and perhaps not so original it still held enough "cute" moments to look past that.
There were also some lessons and great teaching moments for young readers in regards to rumours, reputations and judging books by their covers. All subjects that are very relevant to the teenage population. I thought that the author penned it in a very realistic light and that it will resonate with many young people.
I do have to say that although this book does deal with some heavy issues it is a clean story that is appropriate for even the youngest fans of this genre. The language is appropriate and there is only a little kissing.
I did not read The Boyfriend Project before reading this book and it was not necessary in order to follow along. Having said that, I will probably go back and read it in the hopes that it is as cute as this book was.
3.5 stars
**I received an advanced readers copy from HarperTeen via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
If I had to use one word to describe this book I would have to say cute. I can really see young readers liking this story. Although it was at times predictable and perhaps not so original it still held enough "cute" moments to look past that.
There were also some lessons and great teaching moments for young readers in regards to rumours, reputations and judging books by their covers. All subjects that are very relevant to the teenage population. I thought that the author penned it in a very realistic light and that it will resonate with many young people.
I do have to say that although this book does deal with some heavy issues it is a clean story that is appropriate for even the youngest fans of this genre. The language is appropriate and there is only a little kissing.
I did not read The Boyfriend Project before reading this book and it was not necessary in order to follow along. Having said that, I will probably go back and read it in the hopes that it is as cute as this book was.
Want to read
April 28, 2015Head over to HEA to find out who Rachel's most influential YA author is.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
From Rachel: Latest release: Trouble From the Start is a story about perceptions — the way we tend to judge people without knowing the complete story. Avery is a cop's daughter who is very smart and believes in following the rules. Fletcher is known for getting into trouble, often comes to school bruised and brags that people should see the other guy. Avery thinks he'll end up in prison. Fletcher thinks Avery is too good for him. But when Avery's dad offers Fletcher a room over their garage for the summer, Fletcher and Avery discover they have more in common than they ever would have thought.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
From Rachel: Latest release: Trouble From the Start is a story about perceptions — the way we tend to judge people without knowing the complete story. Avery is a cop's daughter who is very smart and believes in following the rules. Fletcher is known for getting into trouble, often comes to school bruised and brags that people should see the other guy. Avery thinks he'll end up in prison. Fletcher thinks Avery is too good for him. But when Avery's dad offers Fletcher a room over their garage for the summer, Fletcher and Avery discover they have more in common than they ever would have thought.
April 23, 2015
A little bit of a cliché, but I liked it.
Avery is smart and honest and loyal and genuinely good person. Her and her BFF aren't catty bitches and I loved that. Fletcher is a softie wrapped up in a hard chocolate shell. He's sarcastic and it's delightful seeing him snark with Avery.
Of course there's a mean back story for him and some overachieving for her, but it was a sweet story with some good swoons.
**Huge thanks to Harper Teen and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
Avery is smart and honest and loyal and genuinely good person. Her and her BFF aren't catty bitches and I loved that. Fletcher is a softie wrapped up in a hard chocolate shell. He's sarcastic and it's delightful seeing him snark with Avery.
Of course there's a mean back story for him and some overachieving for her, but it was a sweet story with some good swoons.
**Huge thanks to Harper Teen and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
May 1, 2016
The main character and her love interest were so wishy-washy. It's ridiculous.
"Oh, let's get together!"
"Oh, we should just be friends!"
"Oh, but I WUV kissing you!"
"Friends!"
"Together!"
"Friends!"
*covers ears and starts crying* Please stop. Please.
On a serious note, the MC was unrealistic in the sense that she was incredibly dense and the love interest went from being the stereotypical "bad boy" to being completely and totally in loooooove with the studious, unassuming girl.
It kept me reading (though admittedly with some skimming) to the end, which is why I added a star.
"Oh, let's get together!"
"Oh, we should just be friends!"
"Oh, but I WUV kissing you!"
"Friends!"
"Together!"
"Friends!"
*covers ears and starts crying* Please stop. Please.
On a serious note, the MC was unrealistic in the sense that she was incredibly dense and the love interest went from being the stereotypical "bad boy" to being completely and totally in loooooove with the studious, unassuming girl.
It kept me reading (though admittedly with some skimming) to the end, which is why I added a star.
January 9, 2015
A well written YA with high school drama at its best. The high school drama was a little too much for me BUT teens will love this one. I really liked the two main characters and how they both found themselves in the book.
August 21, 2015
A light book that turned out to be a godsend because it got me out of a two week slump. I didn't like the supporting characters in this one, so I won't be reading the companion novel based on their story
March 23, 2017
Reread because perfection.
THANK YOU RACHEL HAWTHORNE.
This was literally everything that I needed. I loved it so much. Avery and Fletcher are wonderful. Really great story. Reminded me of Kasie West (though not as good).
Fantastic.
THANK YOU RACHEL HAWTHORNE.
This was literally everything that I needed. I loved it so much. Avery and Fletcher are wonderful. Really great story. Reminded me of Kasie West (though not as good).
Fantastic.
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