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If You Only Knew
A boy recently released from jail and the daughter of a prosecutor fall for each other against the odds in this YA novel.
Corey has just been released from jail, and all he wants is a new beginning. But when his former gang comes knocking, Corey agrees to vandalize the home of Kent Hopper, the prosecutor who put him away.
To erase the guilt she carries from getting away with a crime, Tessa spends most of her nights riding her motorcycle. When she catches Corey destroying her father’s car, she doesn’t see a criminal: She sees a way to finally right her own wrongs. So instead of turning Corey over to the police, she convinces her father to give Corey a second chance.
As Tessa and Corey spend more time with each other, it becomes difficult to ignore the pull between them. But they’re both keeping secrets, and when those secrets come to light, they’ll each have to face their demons in order to have a future together.
Corey has just been released from jail, and all he wants is a new beginning. But when his former gang comes knocking, Corey agrees to vandalize the home of Kent Hopper, the prosecutor who put him away.
To erase the guilt she carries from getting away with a crime, Tessa spends most of her nights riding her motorcycle. When she catches Corey destroying her father’s car, she doesn’t see a criminal: She sees a way to finally right her own wrongs. So instead of turning Corey over to the police, she convinces her father to give Corey a second chance.
As Tessa and Corey spend more time with each other, it becomes difficult to ignore the pull between them. But they’re both keeping secrets, and when those secrets come to light, they’ll each have to face their demons in order to have a future together.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published February 11, 2020
16 people are currently reading
2916 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
February 20, 2020
So this is my book. I might be a bit biased, but I love it!
February 28, 2020
If You Only Knew is a slow burn YA Contemporary with elements of growing up, maturity, drama, moving on from mistakes, and understanding oneself.
It tells the story of Corey and Tessa, and their journey amidst secrets, lies, and the gang life.
It takes a while before the plot buildz, but the chemistry between the two main characters is truly worth the wait. It is sweet and sexy and funny at times, but there are a lot of violence & gang-related themes.
This story began as a seemingly enemies to lovers tale, a somewhat forbidden romance, but it then evolves into a love story that with twists and turns and tension.
If you go crazy over gang novels, you are in for a treat! It offers you romance with so drama, family elements, and a strong pacing.
It tells the story of Corey and Tessa, and their journey amidst secrets, lies, and the gang life.
It takes a while before the plot buildz, but the chemistry between the two main characters is truly worth the wait. It is sweet and sexy and funny at times, but there are a lot of violence & gang-related themes.
This story began as a seemingly enemies to lovers tale, a somewhat forbidden romance, but it then evolves into a love story that with twists and turns and tension.
If you go crazy over gang novels, you are in for a treat! It offers you romance with so drama, family elements, and a strong pacing.
February 20, 2019
Sometimes you're just in the mood for a swoony YA romance. If that's the case, then CHASE THE NIGHT by Prerna Pickett will definitely hit the spot. It's got all the winning elements you could possibly be looking for:
1. A misunderstood bad boy (who is not really all that bad)
2. A firecracker type female protagonist who rides motorcycles.
3. Lots of romantic tension.
4. Twists and turns that you might not see coming.
5. A satisfying ending.
The story begins with the male protagonist Corey, who has just done a minor stint in prison. His crew convinces him to vandalize the prosecutor's car and home as a means of revenge. Unfortunately, the the prosecutor's teenage daughter, Tessa, catches him in the act. Somehow, they have this weird connection, and even though Corey manages to escape, he comes back the next day to confess to the crime. Because Tessa believes in second chances, she convinces her dad to have him do community service in the form of repairing their home instead of turning him in. As Corey and Tessa get to know one another, we get to see their relationship develop with just the right amount of tension. We also learn Corey's backstory; how he's trying to make things better for his mom and younger sibling, even if it's at the cost of his own future, and how Tessa is keeping secrets that are threatening to crush her soul forever.
I won't spoil the rest, but you will definitely be cheering for Corey and Tessa as the plot unfolds. If you're in the mood for a slow-burning YA romance with a touch of badass-ery, then you will definitely want to read this thrilling debut.
1. A misunderstood bad boy (who is not really all that bad)
2. A firecracker type female protagonist who rides motorcycles.
3. Lots of romantic tension.
4. Twists and turns that you might not see coming.
5. A satisfying ending.
The story begins with the male protagonist Corey, who has just done a minor stint in prison. His crew convinces him to vandalize the prosecutor's car and home as a means of revenge. Unfortunately, the the prosecutor's teenage daughter, Tessa, catches him in the act. Somehow, they have this weird connection, and even though Corey manages to escape, he comes back the next day to confess to the crime. Because Tessa believes in second chances, she convinces her dad to have him do community service in the form of repairing their home instead of turning him in. As Corey and Tessa get to know one another, we get to see their relationship develop with just the right amount of tension. We also learn Corey's backstory; how he's trying to make things better for his mom and younger sibling, even if it's at the cost of his own future, and how Tessa is keeping secrets that are threatening to crush her soul forever.
I won't spoil the rest, but you will definitely be cheering for Corey and Tessa as the plot unfolds. If you're in the mood for a slow-burning YA romance with a touch of badass-ery, then you will definitely want to read this thrilling debut.
January 23, 2020
4/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Strong female lead? Check ✔ Unlikely romance? Check ✔ Superb writing? Check ✔
There was honestly so much to love about this one that I don't know where to start!
This was one of my most anticipated romance reads of the year- and it exceeded all of my expectations! It was funny, heart-warming, there was plenty of tension/suspense, and to top it all off- a not so bad boy that happens to be an extremely talented artist- as well as a motorcycle riding female lead who is great with animals.
If you aren't sold yet- I'm honestly not sure what'll do it for you, but I encourage you to give this one a shot either way!
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Strong female lead? Check ✔ Unlikely romance? Check ✔ Superb writing? Check ✔
There was honestly so much to love about this one that I don't know where to start!
This was one of my most anticipated romance reads of the year- and it exceeded all of my expectations! It was funny, heart-warming, there was plenty of tension/suspense, and to top it all off- a not so bad boy that happens to be an extremely talented artist- as well as a motorcycle riding female lead who is great with animals.
If you aren't sold yet- I'm honestly not sure what'll do it for you, but I encourage you to give this one a shot either way!
February 11, 2020
I got to read this sweet YA contemporary early!!! Chase the Night follows two heroes you will be rooting for the whole time. Corey, released from prison, is the sweet, cinnamon roll bad boy who's not actually a bad boy. And Tessa is a motorcycle-loving, poker-playing daughter with secrets who are crushing her. When Tessa's lawyer father makes Corey repair the garage he and his gang trash, unlikely sparks ignite.
Do you love the Serpents from Riverdale? Do you love cute, swoony love? How about leather jackets and pool parties and motorcycle lessons? THEN YOU'RE GONNA LOVE THESE TWO - a badass girl and a biracial (Indian/white) love interest!!!
Do you love the Serpents from Riverdale? Do you love cute, swoony love? How about leather jackets and pool parties and motorcycle lessons? THEN YOU'RE GONNA LOVE THESE TWO - a badass girl and a biracial (Indian/white) love interest!!!
January 14, 2020
I’m SO excited to have been able to read Prerna Pickett’s debut, IF YOU ONLY KNEW. Filled with beautiful prose and a gorgeous love tale, I was hooked from its opening pages. The book TOTALLY delivered on its promise of an entertaining and heart-warming love story. I was utterly drawn along its spell with the main characters' amazing chemistry (seriously, Pickett deserves an award just for the chemistry alone!).
Tessa and Corey, at first glance, don’t seem to have a ton in common. He’s just been released from jail, is a reluctant part of a local gang, and works hard to protect his family. She’s a free spirit with a close-knit friend group, adores her motorcycle, and is the daughter of a prosecutor—the very one who put Corey in prison in the first place.
We learn quickly, though, that there’s much more to these characters than how they first appear. Both Tessa and Corey have secrets—big, huge, life-changing secrets that they’re both interested in keeping hidden away, thank you very much.
One problem: Tessa fought for Corey to be given a second chance when he confesses to vandalizing her father’s car—and now she and Corey have to spend a lot of time together. The problem, you ask? They’re both immensely attracted to one another. And the more they talk and connect? Their chemistry grows a thousand-fold, so much so that you can feel the heat off this book’s pages! They don’t even realize it at first, but it’s their aforementioned secrets that make them bond so effortlessly with one another—which means there’s so much more at stake once those same secrets come to the surface.
One of the best things about this book is it’s got incredible characters *and* an un-put-downable plot. Corey is the bad boy hiding a cimmaon-roll’s heart that all readers can swoon over and cheer for. And Tessa! She was my favorite. She is so fierce, and brave, and has no qualms about fighting for who she loves and what she wants. Plus, she rides a motorcycle—you can’t get much more badass than that.
Although the book has a great, thrilling plot, the beautiful writing keeps the reader grounded throughout. And that grounded-ness contains the beautiful core of the book—no matter what, you can make up for your mistakes. And the people who are worth it will not only forgive you, but help you do everything you can to become free from your past.
Tessa and Corey, at first glance, don’t seem to have a ton in common. He’s just been released from jail, is a reluctant part of a local gang, and works hard to protect his family. She’s a free spirit with a close-knit friend group, adores her motorcycle, and is the daughter of a prosecutor—the very one who put Corey in prison in the first place.
We learn quickly, though, that there’s much more to these characters than how they first appear. Both Tessa and Corey have secrets—big, huge, life-changing secrets that they’re both interested in keeping hidden away, thank you very much.
One problem: Tessa fought for Corey to be given a second chance when he confesses to vandalizing her father’s car—and now she and Corey have to spend a lot of time together. The problem, you ask? They’re both immensely attracted to one another. And the more they talk and connect? Their chemistry grows a thousand-fold, so much so that you can feel the heat off this book’s pages! They don’t even realize it at first, but it’s their aforementioned secrets that make them bond so effortlessly with one another—which means there’s so much more at stake once those same secrets come to the surface.
One of the best things about this book is it’s got incredible characters *and* an un-put-downable plot. Corey is the bad boy hiding a cimmaon-roll’s heart that all readers can swoon over and cheer for. And Tessa! She was my favorite. She is so fierce, and brave, and has no qualms about fighting for who she loves and what she wants. Plus, she rides a motorcycle—you can’t get much more badass than that.
Although the book has a great, thrilling plot, the beautiful writing keeps the reader grounded throughout. And that grounded-ness contains the beautiful core of the book—no matter what, you can make up for your mistakes. And the people who are worth it will not only forgive you, but help you do everything you can to become free from your past.
January 27, 2020
Corey had just finished serving his time for a crime he didn't commit, but he quickly fell back into old patterns. After vandalizing the home of the lawyer, who prosecuted his case, he found himself back in trouble. The prosecutor's daughter suggested giving Corey a second chance, an opportunity to redeem himself, as she herself was seeking redemption. Sparks inevitably flew, but would these two be able to overcome their past and forge a future together?
• Pro: I had so much sympathy for Corey and his situation. He felt stuck in this life of gang violence, drugs, and Mr. X. He did what he had to, in order to protect his family. He deserved better, and I wanted better for him, because I could see there was so much more to him than the gang banger he was assumed to be.
• Pro: Corey and Tessa had great chemistry, but they also connected on a much deeper level. Both had pasts they needed to reconcile, and they needed to believe they could move forward despite their previous indiscretions. It wasn't easy, given their ties to certain people, but they stood a better chance together than apart.
• Pro: Both Corey and Tessa were being raised in single parent homes, and each was blessed with a wonderful parent. The love and support was there, and some of my favorite moments in this book featured Tessa's dad or Corey's mom.
• Pro: There were so many challenges, so many roadblocks, and a few surprise twists in this story. I have to say, well played Ms. Pickett. There were some things I saw coming, but there were also a few things that caught me off guard.
• Pro: This was a pretty gritty story, but it had these beautiful "soft" parts and some humor too, which put a stupid grin on my face. And, hooray for a very satisfying ending, as well.
• Pro: I loved the overall theme of family and second chances. Sometimes people are victims of their circumstances, and are not presented with many options, like Corey, but he had people who believed in him, and were willing to go that extra mile. It was beautiful to see.
Overall: This was a gritty, but touching story of second chances and redemption, which was that much better with the addition of a romance between two characters, who I couldn't stop rooting for.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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• Pro: I had so much sympathy for Corey and his situation. He felt stuck in this life of gang violence, drugs, and Mr. X. He did what he had to, in order to protect his family. He deserved better, and I wanted better for him, because I could see there was so much more to him than the gang banger he was assumed to be.
• Pro: Corey and Tessa had great chemistry, but they also connected on a much deeper level. Both had pasts they needed to reconcile, and they needed to believe they could move forward despite their previous indiscretions. It wasn't easy, given their ties to certain people, but they stood a better chance together than apart.
• Pro: Both Corey and Tessa were being raised in single parent homes, and each was blessed with a wonderful parent. The love and support was there, and some of my favorite moments in this book featured Tessa's dad or Corey's mom.
• Pro: There were so many challenges, so many roadblocks, and a few surprise twists in this story. I have to say, well played Ms. Pickett. There were some things I saw coming, but there were also a few things that caught me off guard.
• Pro: This was a pretty gritty story, but it had these beautiful "soft" parts and some humor too, which put a stupid grin on my face. And, hooray for a very satisfying ending, as well.
• Pro: I loved the overall theme of family and second chances. Sometimes people are victims of their circumstances, and are not presented with many options, like Corey, but he had people who believed in him, and were willing to go that extra mile. It was beautiful to see.
Overall: This was a gritty, but touching story of second chances and redemption, which was that much better with the addition of a romance between two characters, who I couldn't stop rooting for.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
February 3, 2019
Fans of Simone Elkeles, listen up! You're not going to want to miss this sexy, sweet, thrilling new book from debut author Prerna Pickett! It had everything my (formerly) teen heart needed - a misunderstood "bad boy" who was working hard to protect his family and pay off his debts; a motorcycle riding badass of a female protagonist; SO MUCH sexy chest touching; and a plot that will constantly surprise you as it twists and turns underneath you (wink wink). Pickett builds the romance between Corey and Tessa with believable tension, and by the end I was totally rooting for them (and wringing my hands that it might not happen!!) This is a great romance, a thrilling ride, and an absolute must-read!
February 3, 2020
If You Only Knew is perfect for readers who enjoy the grit and gang-backdrop romances of Simone Elkeles. This second-chance, hidden-secrets romance will have readers anxiously awaiting the fates of these never-meant-to-be characters and the trauma-filled pasts they must face to find hope in their futures.
Corey would do anything to protect his family, even taking up with the gang his father worked for, even taking the fall and going to jail for his least-favourite gang member. Tessa has a privileged life, but she carries the scars from her mother’s abandonment and the shame of the night she crossed the line between right and wrong. When Corey, freshly released from jail, is trapped into vandalising the home of his prosecutor, he comes face-to-face with Tessa. Tessa convinces her father to give Corey another chance as a way to atone for her own sins, and agrees to watch him as he works to restore their vandalised home. But Corey and Tessa have more in common then they realised, starting with attraction and ending with a whole heap of danger.
Can I start by saying I hate this book’s cover. I hope it is changed before it hits the shelves. It just gives it the whole wrong vibe. This is a dark, edgy, gritty novel. It’s about crime, gangs and mistakes. I get that the image is meant to reflect Corey’s graffiti work, but it just doesn’t work for me. Okay, that aside, this is a pretty quick book to read. It has a straightforward plot that is easy to predict and follow. There were a few surprises, especially the leader of the gang - didn’t see that coming! - but the appeal of this book comes from the edgy attraction between Corey and Tessa. Both have made mistakes, both want to make a different path for their future and both feel trapped by their choices. Together, they start to have hope. Tessa has a supportive and slightly abrasive cousin who also fulfils the role of best friend.
If You Only Knew is an edgy contemporary novel for teens.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
Corey would do anything to protect his family, even taking up with the gang his father worked for, even taking the fall and going to jail for his least-favourite gang member. Tessa has a privileged life, but she carries the scars from her mother’s abandonment and the shame of the night she crossed the line between right and wrong. When Corey, freshly released from jail, is trapped into vandalising the home of his prosecutor, he comes face-to-face with Tessa. Tessa convinces her father to give Corey another chance as a way to atone for her own sins, and agrees to watch him as he works to restore their vandalised home. But Corey and Tessa have more in common then they realised, starting with attraction and ending with a whole heap of danger.
Can I start by saying I hate this book’s cover. I hope it is changed before it hits the shelves. It just gives it the whole wrong vibe. This is a dark, edgy, gritty novel. It’s about crime, gangs and mistakes. I get that the image is meant to reflect Corey’s graffiti work, but it just doesn’t work for me. Okay, that aside, this is a pretty quick book to read. It has a straightforward plot that is easy to predict and follow. There were a few surprises, especially the leader of the gang - didn’t see that coming! - but the appeal of this book comes from the edgy attraction between Corey and Tessa. Both have made mistakes, both want to make a different path for their future and both feel trapped by their choices. Together, they start to have hope. Tessa has a supportive and slightly abrasive cousin who also fulfils the role of best friend.
If You Only Knew is an edgy contemporary novel for teens.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
March 1, 2019
When the contemporary faction of YA literature eventually rises up and demands comparable word counts to their fantasy counterparts, CHASE THE NIGHT will be held up as a shining example of the immersive world-building a talented author can accomplish when armed with the space to do so.
It zigs where you think it'll zag, starting as a quasi "enemies-to-lovers" tale before evolving into a tension-filled love story that would make even the most-concrete hearted (i.e. me) swoon. It even makes time to be a poker thriller a la Rounders for a few scenes.
For me, stories like this particularly fun when there's a skilled writer behind them (and Pickett is) because you watch them introduce roadblock after roadblock to our two protags romantic chances, and then watching them navigate a path through which they find their way together anyway. Along the road to payoff, you'll get to savor lines like this:
Tessa: "My hands somehow managed to land on his chest."
Jeff's Face: 😏 😏 😏 😏
Jeff's Reax: Suuuuuure Tessa. Because that's how hands work
It zigs where you think it'll zag, starting as a quasi "enemies-to-lovers" tale before evolving into a tension-filled love story that would make even the most-concrete hearted (i.e. me) swoon. It even makes time to be a poker thriller a la Rounders for a few scenes.
For me, stories like this particularly fun when there's a skilled writer behind them (and Pickett is) because you watch them introduce roadblock after roadblock to our two protags romantic chances, and then watching them navigate a path through which they find their way together anyway. Along the road to payoff, you'll get to savor lines like this:
Tessa: "My hands somehow managed to land on his chest."
Jeff's Face: 😏 😏 😏 😏
Jeff's Reax: Suuuuuure Tessa. Because that's how hands work
September 4, 2019
Friends, I ADORED this book!
I was instantly drawn in by our MC, Tessa. She's fierce, hiding a secret, and rides a motorcycle. I also have an extreme soft spot for our love interest, Corey, who has been sucked into a world of gangs and drugs against his will. I really love the complicated spot he's in, and how he's trying to do his best to take care of his family. There is GREAT tension with a swoon-worthy enemies to lovers slow burn (hi, hello, Lawyer's Daughter x Soft Bad Boy Recently Released From Jail? Uh, HECK yes!).
If you're a fan of ON MY BLOCK, this book will be right up your alley!
I was instantly drawn in by our MC, Tessa. She's fierce, hiding a secret, and rides a motorcycle. I also have an extreme soft spot for our love interest, Corey, who has been sucked into a world of gangs and drugs against his will. I really love the complicated spot he's in, and how he's trying to do his best to take care of his family. There is GREAT tension with a swoon-worthy enemies to lovers slow burn (hi, hello, Lawyer's Daughter x Soft Bad Boy Recently Released From Jail? Uh, HECK yes!).
If you're a fan of ON MY BLOCK, this book will be right up your alley!
February 22, 2020
If you’re looking for a book as wild and romantic as a late night motorcycle ride this book is for you!
Tessa and Corey are two complex characters who have made mistakes (and make more) as they’re trying to change the paths they’re on. Their romance sizzles as they slowly learn to trust each other with their secrets.
Tessa and Corey are two complex characters who have made mistakes (and make more) as they’re trying to change the paths they’re on. Their romance sizzles as they slowly learn to trust each other with their secrets.
November 10, 2019
GIVE ME ALL THE GANG NOVELS IN YA!
When I read the synopsis for this I was already hooked! I've always been a fan of books that incorporate gangs in some way, whether it's fantasy or contemporary, but I don't believe I've read any that delve into romance. A Thousand Fires may breach into that territory (which I also loved by the way), but If You Only Knew goes DEEP and hits all the right spots.
This book is swoony, but it still deals with many of the issues that a lot of adolescents go through nowadays. This book can get very serious, but it also has a unique way of just making you smile and laugh. I found it to be a perfect balance, and it's probably become one of my favorite contemporary novels.
I don't read much contemporary, but I know FOR A FACT that this'll be a book I'll keep coming back to whenever I want a good read. If you want romance but still want it to feel real and serious, definitely check it out. It's the perfect pace and I feel that there aren't many people who won't like this!
ARC provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
When I read the synopsis for this I was already hooked! I've always been a fan of books that incorporate gangs in some way, whether it's fantasy or contemporary, but I don't believe I've read any that delve into romance. A Thousand Fires may breach into that territory (which I also loved by the way), but If You Only Knew goes DEEP and hits all the right spots.
This book is swoony, but it still deals with many of the issues that a lot of adolescents go through nowadays. This book can get very serious, but it also has a unique way of just making you smile and laugh. I found it to be a perfect balance, and it's probably become one of my favorite contemporary novels.
I don't read much contemporary, but I know FOR A FACT that this'll be a book I'll keep coming back to whenever I want a good read. If you want romance but still want it to feel real and serious, definitely check it out. It's the perfect pace and I feel that there aren't many people who won't like this!
ARC provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 22, 2020
It required wayyyyy too much suspension of disbelief for a contemporary novel. I didn’t really care for either Corey or Tessa. I don’t like books that involve secret-keeping and withholding the truth.
August 6, 2020
I ADORED the role reversal of Tessa being the bad-ass biker with a good public reputation and Corey being the misunderstood sweetheart with a bad public reputation. They each had their own baggage and gave each other support and reassurance in different aspects of their lives- I loved that it never felt out of balance- they each gave and took in equal amounts. Their chemistry sizzled and I really enjoyed getting to spend time in each of their heads. Excited to read more from Prerna!
May 9, 2020
Blog | Twitter | Instagram | Tik Tok | You can find my review here.
As always, a copy of this book was provided by the publisher or author in exchange for my honest review. This does not effect my opinion in any way.
Redemption, secrets and facing the past are all central plot points in If You Only Knew. Like all good coming of age stories, If You Only Knew is all about growing up and changing into the person you've always meant to be. As flawed and complex as the lifelines we trace, these characters are well on their way to growing up and receiving second chances.
There's this glimpse of hopefulness to this story that warms my heart. While I wouldn't say I had fits of the warm and fuzzies throughout the course of this novel, there was so much good to be found in If You Only Knew's honesty.
There's laughter, joy, sadness, swooning and anger to be found within these pages. If You Only Knew is the type of story that I call a balancing act--it has a little of everything. The sharp edges of life and its harder parts, lending to a blunt tone, but there are softer elements we often try to hold onto.
You can smile just as easily as frown while reading this novel.
What makes this story so special is that balance and the way that the story unravels for Tessa and Corey. In the span of If You Only Knew, Prerna Pickett creates a cast of believable characters that you'll find you want to simultaneously shake sense into them and root for. Tangled with their own pasts, the two characters at the center meet and together they grow.
They have everything you could want in a fictional relationship. You root for them. Their chemistry is high. They have some seriously tense and highly intriguing interactions that will give you all the feels.
For many, this is the kind of love story that will keep the pages turning; there are complications, and bumps in the road, but a majority of the time spent between these two is used on character growth. I'm not keen on romances where characters stand still or change is one sided; Pickett tells the story of two characters who fall in love and genuinely balance each other out in the most beautiful of ways.
Colour me impressed by this novel. This story made me feel so much.
As always, a copy of this book was provided by the publisher or author in exchange for my honest review. This does not effect my opinion in any way.
Redemption, secrets and facing the past are all central plot points in If You Only Knew. Like all good coming of age stories, If You Only Knew is all about growing up and changing into the person you've always meant to be. As flawed and complex as the lifelines we trace, these characters are well on their way to growing up and receiving second chances.
There's this glimpse of hopefulness to this story that warms my heart. While I wouldn't say I had fits of the warm and fuzzies throughout the course of this novel, there was so much good to be found in If You Only Knew's honesty.
There's laughter, joy, sadness, swooning and anger to be found within these pages. If You Only Knew is the type of story that I call a balancing act--it has a little of everything. The sharp edges of life and its harder parts, lending to a blunt tone, but there are softer elements we often try to hold onto.
You can smile just as easily as frown while reading this novel.
What makes this story so special is that balance and the way that the story unravels for Tessa and Corey. In the span of If You Only Knew, Prerna Pickett creates a cast of believable characters that you'll find you want to simultaneously shake sense into them and root for. Tangled with their own pasts, the two characters at the center meet and together they grow.
They have everything you could want in a fictional relationship. You root for them. Their chemistry is high. They have some seriously tense and highly intriguing interactions that will give you all the feels.
For many, this is the kind of love story that will keep the pages turning; there are complications, and bumps in the road, but a majority of the time spent between these two is used on character growth. I'm not keen on romances where characters stand still or change is one sided; Pickett tells the story of two characters who fall in love and genuinely balance each other out in the most beautiful of ways.
Colour me impressed by this novel. This story made me feel so much.
March 30, 2020
I’m always up for a slow-burn romance, especially when it’s as well done as IF YOU ONLY KNEW. When Corey (just out of prison) meets Tessa (feisty prosecutor’s daughter), it’s not under the best of circumstances – he and the gang he’s involved with are vandalizing her father’s garage. And while this early encounter might peg each of them as a certain “type,” there is much more to these two than meets the eye. As they both try to make amends for past mistakes, their growing feelings for one another make things complicated… but in a bad way or a good way? You know you want to find out, so you need to read this! Plus, there’s motorcycle racing, cool art, a twisty plot and SO. MUCH. CHEMISTRY.
February 17, 2020
I thought this was an enjoyable, well-written YA romance.
I love the premise of the story. Sort of forbidden. Prosecutor's daughter with redeemed criminal.
I think there is such a valuable lesson that is taught in this story. That second chances are worthwhile and important. That telling the truth and owning your mistakes makes you a strong person.
There is a lot of suspense and mystery in the story that kept me turning the pages.
Tessa and Corey were just ... *sigh*, so good together.
I love the premise of the story. Sort of forbidden. Prosecutor's daughter with redeemed criminal.
I think there is such a valuable lesson that is taught in this story. That second chances are worthwhile and important. That telling the truth and owning your mistakes makes you a strong person.
There is a lot of suspense and mystery in the story that kept me turning the pages.
Tessa and Corey were just ... *sigh*, so good together.
March 12, 2020
Oh my gosh, I love tension in a love story and I can’t think of a way to have more tension than a former prisoner and the daughter of the prosecutor who put him away! The characters were so multi-faceted and well done, especially Corey trying to redeem himself and prove he’s more than his past and Tessa’s badassery (this girl rides MOTORCYCLES) and hidden secrets. I highly recommend for romance fans!! SWOON!
April 10, 2020
This was fantastic! As a reader, I thought Tessa and Corey's chemistry and slow-burn romance was incredibly well done. As a writer, I found myself studying the very skillful way Prerna developed her characters and pulled off twists in her story's plot. Fans of Simone Elkeles and Katie McGarry will love this contemporary debut!
May 2, 2020
A sweet romance.
I loved that Tessa was the hard-as-nails biker instead of the damsel in distress. It made for an original female lead.
Corey was the good guy trying to become a great one, which considering his gang affiliation was very unexpected.
I loved that Tessa was the hard-as-nails biker instead of the damsel in distress. It made for an original female lead.
Corey was the good guy trying to become a great one, which considering his gang affiliation was very unexpected.
April 17, 2020
Loved this book!
dnf
June 26, 2020DNF @ pg 25
The writing is not for me, and I do not care about the characters enough to push through.
The writing is not for me, and I do not care about the characters enough to push through.
February 19, 2020
I picked up this new YA release for a weeklong work trip to Florida this week, but the 304-page beauty (look at that cover!) only made it through the 4-hour flight, as I could not put it down....despite my grumbling tummy! While I am now left without a book to read at the hotel, I have no regrets. Pickett's unique style really engulfed me into the story all along the way. She has a distinct voice, which is well-differentiated as you alternate back and forth between the dual perspective main characters, Tessa & Corey. Corey's humble and quick-witted personality came through clearly... as did Tessa's confident, yet vulnerable nature. Very relatable characters in so many ways.
This story had all the right ingredients...a slow-burning forbidden love, suspenseful secrets, underground street racing (her not him), peer pressure/gang politics, PUPPIES, graffiti art, undeniable chemistry, high tension, redemption, risk-taking, exciting plot twists and a heartwarming lesson of second chances and finding love in unexpected places. I LOVED the character development and depth... not just MC's Corey & Tessa, but the many intriguing side characters as well, especially Corey's sweet, inspirational mother and Tessa's extremely caring Dad.
I can't recommend If You Only Knew highly enough! You'll laugh, you'll cry and of course, you'll SWOON (hard)! Phenomenal debut. I can't wait for Pickett's next novel!
This story had all the right ingredients...a slow-burning forbidden love, suspenseful secrets, underground street racing (her not him), peer pressure/gang politics, PUPPIES, graffiti art, undeniable chemistry, high tension, redemption, risk-taking, exciting plot twists and a heartwarming lesson of second chances and finding love in unexpected places. I LOVED the character development and depth... not just MC's Corey & Tessa, but the many intriguing side characters as well, especially Corey's sweet, inspirational mother and Tessa's extremely caring Dad.
I can't recommend If You Only Knew highly enough! You'll laugh, you'll cry and of course, you'll SWOON (hard)! Phenomenal debut. I can't wait for Pickett's next novel!
June 8, 2020
All the ingredients here for a reformed bad-boy (and not so straightlaced girl) romance. I loved that the girl was the motorcycle rider; lots here to like, a lot of conflict and tense moments. It reminded me a lot of Katie McGarry books in a good way!
April 12, 2020
Thank you to the publishers for the gifted copy for an honest review
I loved this book.
I was worried it would be too cliche and predictable
But Pickett did a great job writing a story that needs to be told in the YA fiction world.
In this book the main characters are going through major transitions. That period where you are between high school and college and peer pressure sinks in.
this book touches on issues of honesty and gang violence in small towns and even prejudices
I read this book in about a day and some change and I honestly can give it 4 stars.
For a debut YA novel, this is a powerful entrance to the literary scene
I loved this book.
I was worried it would be too cliche and predictable
But Pickett did a great job writing a story that needs to be told in the YA fiction world.
In this book the main characters are going through major transitions. That period where you are between high school and college and peer pressure sinks in.
this book touches on issues of honesty and gang violence in small towns and even prejudices
I read this book in about a day and some change and I honestly can give it 4 stars.
For a debut YA novel, this is a powerful entrance to the literary scene
dnf
June 9, 2020DNF with no rating
I
Could
Not
Finish
The instalove was awful and I had no idea what the overall story was because it was all about graffiti and motorcycles. NOPE.
I
Could
Not
Finish
The instalove was awful and I had no idea what the overall story was because it was all about graffiti and motorcycles. NOPE.
February 18, 2020
If You Only Knew tackles big topics with so much heart. Readers will root for Pickett’s gutsy, realistically flawed characters as they seek redemption, justice, and happiness. Corey and Tessa’s deceptively simple narration soon reveals the complexity of their families, their secrets, and their pasts. Our protagonists’ journeys remind us that our mistakes don’t define who we are, and that where we come from doesn’t always have to be where we’re going. A thrilling adrenaline ride for fans of slow-burn YA romance with a heart-of-gold, not-so-bad “bad boy” and a motorcycle-riding not-so-good “good girl”.
_____________________
I was lucky enough to read an ARC and blurb, can't wait to be able to post it here!!!
_____________________
I was lucky enough to read an ARC and blurb, can't wait to be able to post it here!!!
March 14, 2020
This story strongly reminds me of Katie McGarry’s books, so if you’re a fan of hers, this is right up your alley. Both main characters are troubled with secrets and dark pasts. Corey is a reluctant gang member, willing to do whatever it takes to keep his family safe, including doing a year in prison. Tessa is the daughter of the D.A. who put Corey in jail. So when the gang decides to take it out on the D.A.’s home and car, they drag Corey into the mayhem. Unable to deal with the guilt of what he did to the man who recommended the lightest sentence possible for his crimes, he goes to the man’s house and admits what he did, shielding the other members from blame to keep his family from the harm they would surely be subjected to if he ratted out the others. Tessa sees something in Corey and asks her dad to give him a second chance. This kicks off a tenuous friendship that evolves into so much more as Corey makes amends by repairing the damage his “friends” did to Tessa’s home. Tessa is hiding her own dark past that is only hinted at through much of the book. While she desperately wishes to confess whatever it is, she keeps finding reasons not to. But this ugly secret compels her to view Corey in a different light than most people do.
I love the characters and the romance. It’s angsty and emotionally deep. The only thing keeping me from giving this five stars is that it takes a long time to really get going. I was a good 30% into it before I was fully invested in the story and the characters. It was easier for me to engage with Corey early on, but I was slow to warm up to Tessa. She almost has too much hidden from the reader to empathize with her. But once I was able to start seeing her through Corey’s eyes, I eventually got on board with her as well.
Plot
The primary plot is the relationship between the two main characters, but there are strong subplots involving Tessa’s secret and Corey’s future. Both of these influence their relationship, making them integral to the main plot. There is also minor subplots regarding Corey’s mom’s career, an ex-boyfriend of Tessa’s and Tessa’s dad’s health and her concerns about him.
The Characters
I loved Corey instantly, but was slower to embrace Tessa. Both characters are incredibly complex and conflicted, making them intriguing. Tessa’s dad and Corey’s family are warm and provide a nice contrast to the two tortured protagonists. Told in dual first-person POV, we get deep inside both of their heads, allowing us to understand what makes them tick. Rounding out the cast is Tessa’s uncle and her cousin, who also happens to be her BFF, a vengeful ex-boyfriend, and Corey’s crew. The character development is one of the best parts of this book.
Top Five Things I Enjoyed About IF YOU ONLY KNEW
1. A sympathetic gang member. Corey isn’t really an anti-hero since his heart is always in the right place and he never devolves into something darker, but it was still good to see this side of gang activity, to see how good kids get drawn into that life.
2. Corey’s mom. She is so proud of her son despite his time in jail, and she never stops being his biggest fan.
3. Tessa’s dad. Much like Corey, Tessa’s dad grounds her in just the way she needs. Even though he’s a prosecutor, he still manages to see the best in people.
4. Redemption. Both characters have a redemption arc, and that’s one of my favorites.
5. Angsty romance. Another favorite of mine. These two have so much keeping them apart, that the intensity of their love is palpable.
Bottom Line
A solid young adult contemporary romance with complex characters.
Disclaimer
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I love the characters and the romance. It’s angsty and emotionally deep. The only thing keeping me from giving this five stars is that it takes a long time to really get going. I was a good 30% into it before I was fully invested in the story and the characters. It was easier for me to engage with Corey early on, but I was slow to warm up to Tessa. She almost has too much hidden from the reader to empathize with her. But once I was able to start seeing her through Corey’s eyes, I eventually got on board with her as well.
Plot
The primary plot is the relationship between the two main characters, but there are strong subplots involving Tessa’s secret and Corey’s future. Both of these influence their relationship, making them integral to the main plot. There is also minor subplots regarding Corey’s mom’s career, an ex-boyfriend of Tessa’s and Tessa’s dad’s health and her concerns about him.
The Characters
I loved Corey instantly, but was slower to embrace Tessa. Both characters are incredibly complex and conflicted, making them intriguing. Tessa’s dad and Corey’s family are warm and provide a nice contrast to the two tortured protagonists. Told in dual first-person POV, we get deep inside both of their heads, allowing us to understand what makes them tick. Rounding out the cast is Tessa’s uncle and her cousin, who also happens to be her BFF, a vengeful ex-boyfriend, and Corey’s crew. The character development is one of the best parts of this book.
Top Five Things I Enjoyed About IF YOU ONLY KNEW
1. A sympathetic gang member. Corey isn’t really an anti-hero since his heart is always in the right place and he never devolves into something darker, but it was still good to see this side of gang activity, to see how good kids get drawn into that life.
2. Corey’s mom. She is so proud of her son despite his time in jail, and she never stops being his biggest fan.
3. Tessa’s dad. Much like Corey, Tessa’s dad grounds her in just the way she needs. Even though he’s a prosecutor, he still manages to see the best in people.
4. Redemption. Both characters have a redemption arc, and that’s one of my favorites.
5. Angsty romance. Another favorite of mine. These two have so much keeping them apart, that the intensity of their love is palpable.
Bottom Line
A solid young adult contemporary romance with complex characters.
Disclaimer
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2019
Love how this book takes the bad-boy trope and spins it on its head! This book takes an honest and heartfelt look at Corey, a boy who had landed himself in trouble while trying to pull his family out of a bad situation, but who has a sincere desire to do better for them and himself. Add to that a girl, Tessa, with some haunting mistakes of her own but sees in Corey a way to redeem herself.
Also, there's gorgeous spray paint art, motorcycle riding and drag racing (by Tessa, no less!!), cute dogs, and kissing. Lots and lots of kissing.
An excellent book to watch for next year.
Also, there's gorgeous spray paint art, motorcycle riding and drag racing (by Tessa, no less!!), cute dogs, and kissing. Lots and lots of kissing.
An excellent book to watch for next year.
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