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Burn for Burn #1
Burn for Burn
Postcard-perfect Jar Island is home to charming tourist shops, pristine beaches, amazing oceanfront homes—and three girls secretly plotting revenge.
KAT is sick and tired of being bullied by her former best friend.
LILLIA has always looked out for her little sister, so when she discovers that one of her guy friends has been secretly hooking up with her, she’s going to put a stop to it.
MARY is perpetually haunted by a traumatic event from years past, and the boy who’s responsible has yet to get what’s coming to him.
None of the girls can act on their revenge fantasies alone without being suspected. But together…anything is possible.
With an alliance in place, there will be no more “I wish I’d said…” or “If I could go back and do things differently...” These girls will show Jar Island that revenge is a dish best enjoyed together.
KAT is sick and tired of being bullied by her former best friend.
LILLIA has always looked out for her little sister, so when she discovers that one of her guy friends has been secretly hooking up with her, she’s going to put a stop to it.
MARY is perpetually haunted by a traumatic event from years past, and the boy who’s responsible has yet to get what’s coming to him.
None of the girls can act on their revenge fantasies alone without being suspected. But together…anything is possible.
With an alliance in place, there will be no more “I wish I’d said…” or “If I could go back and do things differently...” These girls will show Jar Island that revenge is a dish best enjoyed together.
356 pages, Hardcover
First published September 18, 2012
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April 30, 2014
"This is Karma. I’m a bitch. Can you think of anyone who deserves a bitch slap?"*sheepishly hands over her "Get Out Of Jail Free" card*
My phone buzzes again.
"If so, meet at Judy Blue Eyes, 2am. If not, sit back and enjoy the show."
Technically, I'm not supposed to like this book. There are no end to clichéd characters, there's not so much a love triangle as a love star or whatever shape there is with way too many pointy ends (my Geometry teacher would be so proud), because it seems like everyone's hooking up with everyone else. If you're a parent, this book is going make you want to home school your child for the rest of high school, if not their life.
But fuck it, I had a blast. This book was terrifically fun. Here's why I liked it, despite its flaws:
1. The setting: Northeastern US coastal island. For me, that's the equivalent of catnip
2. REVENGE, BITCHES! Because, really, who doesn't love a good tale of GETTING EVEN
3. No slut shaming:, there's rampant sex, but there's never slut shaming
4. Diversity: ok, fine, there's just one Asian main character, but that's one more than most books have! Thank you, Jenny Han!
5. A surprising amount of darkness: really, really wild teenagers. They hook up, they use drugs, they drink, they're horrible people---they're, erm, teenagers, with all that entails. This book deals with issues like date rape, underaged sex, bullying (in the true sense of the word), and suicide.
6. Who cares about a love triangle or whatever when I can't keep the hookups straight?!
It wasn't perfect by any means (and dude, what's with the paranormal thing at the end?!), but really, I had too much fun reading to care.
The Summary:
Today I told that girl in the bathroom that Reeve would get his, that karma’s a bitch. I meant it when I said it, but now I’m not so sure. I’m sick of waiting for karma. Karma can suck it.It's been a long time since Mary has been back to Jar Island, her ancestral home. She had to leave years ago, due to certain...events. Mary was never a confident person, she's shy, she's socially awkward, but something happened a few years ago that broke her down. She had to leave the island. Now 17, Mary has chosen to return. Why? She hopes to catch the attention of a boy.
Will he recognize me, I wonder? Part of me hopes he doesn’t. But the other part, the part that left my family to come back, hopes he does. He has to. Otherwise, what’s the point?Ah, but it's not what you'd expect. That "he?" It's a boy named Reeve. Is he a former lover? A crush? Hardly.
He...used to torture me when we were in seventh grade. He basically got everyone in our grade to hate me. He’s the reason my family moved away.Kat is a tough girl, a loner, a girl who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks. Kat is big, bad, and bitchy. She smokes, she's a punk, she absolutely hates the rich townies and preppies at her school.
They make me want to barf, every last one of them. They get away with murder on this island. They just do what they want to do, and screw everyone and everything else.But it wasn't always like this. Kat used to be one of the "in-crowd," best friends with the most popular girls in town. Her former best friend, Rennie now hates her guts, and spreads rumors about Kat whenever she gets the chance. Kat tolerates and ignores the rumors, until one day, she snaps.
I freaking spat in Rennie’s face. Pretty much the trashiest thing I could ever do. The lies Rennie’s been telling about me since freshman year, I just proved them true.Because there's only so much a girl can take.
Lillia is a good student, a good daughter, a loving sister, the benevolent second queen bee in the school who holds a dark secret and shame. She is Rennie's best friend, a cheerleader. Lillia, Kat, and Rennie used to be a trio of best friends, until something tore them apart. Now Lillia is one of the most popular girls in school, and Rennie's sole best friend, but she knows too well what a bitch Rennie can be. But Lillia's got more to worry about than just the conniving Rennie; her innocent baby sister Nadia is entering the dark world of high school, and Lillia has failed to protect her from her two-faced childhood friend, Alex.
I never should have left her at that party. This is my fault just as much as it is Nadia’s. Maybe more. I’m her big sister. It’s my job to look out for her, to keep her safe.Wonderful! Now we're all set up. The summer's over, the school year's just begin...and it blows so bad. Mary doesn't know Lillia and Kat. Lillia and Kat now barely talk to each other. They all meet, by chance, in the girl's bathroom. Two of the three are crying. For the guys out there, in case you were wondering, Many Mysterious Things go on in girl's bathrooms.
Well, that's a bonding moment if there ever was one, but who's to trust someone you just met? Gradually, they all learn about how certain people in their lives have been fucking them over. Mary wants revenge on the guy who's bullied her throughout middle school.
Before Reeve, I was one of the smart girls, especially in math. I was the shy but friendly one. I was a little socially awkward, sure. But after Reeve, I was the fat girl.Kat wants revenge on her former best friend, the one who's been making her life hell for years.
Rennie has spread a hundred rumors about me over the years—how my dad is a meth dealer and he’s grooming my brother, Pat, for the family business; how I once tried to French kiss her at a sleepover. All kinds of lies, just so she could have something interesting to say.And Lillia? A certain guy named Alex has been sleeping with Kat AND Lillia's beloved (and very, very young little sister).
...this fake chivalrous Alex also cheated on Kat by taking advantage of my little sister.The new girl. The cheerleader. The loner. A triple threat. Revenge is a bitch, and so are they.
“We have to be more than careful,” I say. “No one can ever know what we’re up to. What we do together lives and dies with us.”MWAHAHAHAHAHAHA
The Revenge: The three girls do some seriously cruel shit in this book, and I have to say that the sadistic part of me loved every single fucking moment. They set fire alarms, they give someone a rash, they break windows, they do very, very illegal things. And I don't even care. If you wanted a carebear book, look elsewhere, this book has pissed off people getting revenge on some very unpleasant people who may or may not deserve it. It's not a book for carebears.
The Characters: The book is told through three POVs, that of Mary, Lillia, and Kat. I didn't have any trouble telling them apart.
Kat is the "bitch" out of the three, her voice is the strongest, she is easily identifiable through her toughness and her tendency to be terribly blunt and sometimes profane. I didn't have a problem with her bitchiness at all. None of the characters pissed me off. Kat is not too clichéd to be true; she's tough, but she feels like a genuine character who can actually think and not be one of those Big Bad Girls who are mean and bitchy just for the sake of maintaining her tough-ass image. She is blunt, she is the ringleader, she puts them all together, she gives her allies strength.
“He’s not worth it,” she says. “None of these people are. Trust me.”Mary is the quietest, the shyest, which makes a hell of a lot of sense, considering she used to be fat and bullied. She's pretty now, even, but the damage remains, and she remains unsure of herself. It took Mary a lot to be able to walk around school with her head up, despite the fact that she's not the "fat girl" anymore. I really loved her reaction to Reeve; she hates him, but she can't help wanting him to notice her and how she's changed as well. It's a naive hope that's realistic, knowing what she's been through.
I was crazy to think that Reeve would ever apologize for the terrible things he did to me. I always hoped, somewhere deep down inside, that I mattered to him. That he cared about me. That he was sorry for what he did.Lillia is the double agent, with a foot in both worlds. She's best friends with Rennie, hangs out with the jock and cheerleader crowd, she's wealthy, beautiful, and friends with wrong-girl Kat. Lillia is most concerned about her sister, she acts more like a mother to Nadia. There was a whole lot going on with Lillia, she's got a tremendous amount of guilt and shame, both from her perceived responsibility to her sister, and from a very sick event that happened to her.
I know now, I know for sure, that I was wrong.
I kissed him back. I liked it. Then I didn’t. I said no. I think I said no. Didn’t he hear me?The Assholes: They have more depth to them than I originally expected, but man, at times, the Mean Girl in the book felt really cringe-worthy. Rennie and Reeve are some of the baddies in this book, and they talk like this, at times.
I felt the bile rise in my throat. “I think I’m going to be sick.”
He drawls, “Rennie, honey?”I said AT TIMES, because thankfully, this type of silly speech doesn't persist throughout the book. But I did feel that Rennie was outrageously Mean Girl at some points; she completely played out the Evil Cheerleader Captain with great aplomb, from telling a girl her thighs are the size of Texas, to telling another that she has a skin problem.
“Yes, Reevie baby?” Rennie flips her hair around.
“You know you’re my wifey, right?”
Eww.
“Of course.”
“And a wifey has to make sure her man is taken care of,” he continues.
“There can’t be any weak links whatsoever. That means if your friend is slacking, you let her know. Like, just as a for instance, Melanie, you need to commit these three words to memory stat: ‘cleanse,’ ‘tone,’ ‘moisturize.’” Melanie’s eyes fill up with tears, but she quickly nods.The Romance: @_@;;;
I don't even know how to describe it, so let's not even go there. It's not bad, it's just a very interesting twist of the plot.
Overall: Tremendously fun, if you suspend your disbelief by a few foot. Just don't try it at home.
January 22, 2019
bitches get even
now, usually i am a little leery about reading books that it took two people to write. but this one didn't seem cobbled together the way Beautiful Creatures did. and i don't read a lot of realistic YA, but the guy at the s&s booth at ALA assured me i would like it. and i did. thank you, guy whose name i have forgotten. we had a very nice conversation and i am sorry i have forgotten your name and i thank you for pushing this book on me, even though i made a frowny face at the time.
this is a really fun "hell hath no fury" book in which three teenaged girls who each feel they have been wronged by someone take matters into their own hands and start to push back causing bodily harm, property damage, and reputation-attacks to three individuals.
and their targets will rue the day they ever crossed these ladies.
apparently, this is the first book in something - grrrrr. and towards the end, some magical elements start creeping in in a way that feels a little off, but i suppose it will make more sense and be less odd-feeling in the second book. because even though i don't read a lot of realistic YA,i was enjoying it, and this felt like a solid plot without that added whisper-flourish.
but other than that, it was a very entertaining leisure read full of social climbing/grasping, bitchy girls, laconic wealthy boredom, crossed signals, betrayal, misunderstandings, love triangles, and girl-bonding (but shhh - not where people can see!)
and like any teenage-revenge plot, it's not going to run smoothly, and mistakes will be made.
but that's why we love it, right? revenge-plots gotta have repercussions.
read it and then share with me your best revenge-plot.
come to my blog!
now, usually i am a little leery about reading books that it took two people to write. but this one didn't seem cobbled together the way Beautiful Creatures did. and i don't read a lot of realistic YA, but the guy at the s&s booth at ALA assured me i would like it. and i did. thank you, guy whose name i have forgotten. we had a very nice conversation and i am sorry i have forgotten your name and i thank you for pushing this book on me, even though i made a frowny face at the time.
this is a really fun "hell hath no fury" book in which three teenaged girls who each feel they have been wronged by someone take matters into their own hands and start to push back causing bodily harm, property damage, and reputation-attacks to three individuals.
and their targets will rue the day they ever crossed these ladies.
apparently, this is the first book in something - grrrrr. and towards the end, some magical elements start creeping in in a way that feels a little off, but i suppose it will make more sense and be less odd-feeling in the second book. because even though i don't read a lot of realistic YA,i was enjoying it, and this felt like a solid plot without that added whisper-flourish.
but other than that, it was a very entertaining leisure read full of social climbing/grasping, bitchy girls, laconic wealthy boredom, crossed signals, betrayal, misunderstandings, love triangles, and girl-bonding (but shhh - not where people can see!)
and like any teenage-revenge plot, it's not going to run smoothly, and mistakes will be made.
but that's why we love it, right? revenge-plots gotta have repercussions.
read it and then share with me your best revenge-plot.
come to my blog!
October 12, 2014
OMG I THINK THIS SERIES IS GOING TO BE ONE OF MY NEW FAVS!
September 4, 2012
Sorry Karma, we're taking things into our own hands! Kat, Mary, and Lillia are out for revenge. These three incredibly different girls - both in personality and social status - help each other right some wrongs. A great balance of friendship, drama, and intrigue; Burn for Burn is full of entertainment value, and high in sass!
The girls: We've got three convincing voices made up of three distinctive personalities. In a style that will appeal to fans of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, we switch from one POV to the other, making us understand these girls individually, in a personal manner, in addition to what led to them wanting to seek revenge. Even though they aren't all sweet and delightful, or even likeable in one case, I found them all remarkably enticing. They have such strong characters that breathe life into the story, each giving it different dashes of charm - and attitude. They're also paired with a fantastic cast of side characters who constantly keep you on the fence, not knowing if you should like them, or hate them.
Revenge is sweet? These girls are definitely finding out. At first I thought the revenge acts were a tad lame. I actually felt sympathy for the first victim as I didn't find he was all that deserving, and the acts themselves were a bit too personal for my taste. However, as we move on to the other two sorry souls, the acts get much more consequential, on top of being a great deal more justifiable. Not that I condone what they're doing, but I can at least see why they thought it was warranted. They soon learn, however, that with every act of vengeance, you have to deal with the consequences.
What I wasn't expecting from this novel was the hint of something paranormal. I was thrown off at first, wondering where it may lead up to, though by the end I was highly intrigued. We only get glimpses; it's not a monumental part of the story for the most part, keeping the novel almost completely contemporary, but eventually, this small paranormal aspect evolves until it completely changes one whole aspect of the plot. And to be honest I kind of loved it! I'm very excited to find out more about this mysterious side that unexpectedly reminded me of one of my favorite horror movies. Expect to be highly anticipating its sequel after this crazy cliffhanger ending!
Burn for Burn is like a guilty pleasure; you should know better, but you're secretly enthused by the anticipation of seeing these people get what's coming for them. Han and Vivian's writing styles blends flawlessly together, leaving us with an enchanting story full of energy and spice.
--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
The girls: We've got three convincing voices made up of three distinctive personalities. In a style that will appeal to fans of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, we switch from one POV to the other, making us understand these girls individually, in a personal manner, in addition to what led to them wanting to seek revenge. Even though they aren't all sweet and delightful, or even likeable in one case, I found them all remarkably enticing. They have such strong characters that breathe life into the story, each giving it different dashes of charm - and attitude. They're also paired with a fantastic cast of side characters who constantly keep you on the fence, not knowing if you should like them, or hate them.
Revenge is sweet? These girls are definitely finding out. At first I thought the revenge acts were a tad lame. I actually felt sympathy for the first victim as I didn't find he was all that deserving, and the acts themselves were a bit too personal for my taste. However, as we move on to the other two sorry souls, the acts get much more consequential, on top of being a great deal more justifiable. Not that I condone what they're doing, but I can at least see why they thought it was warranted. They soon learn, however, that with every act of vengeance, you have to deal with the consequences.
What I wasn't expecting from this novel was the hint of something paranormal. I was thrown off at first, wondering where it may lead up to, though by the end I was highly intrigued. We only get glimpses; it's not a monumental part of the story for the most part, keeping the novel almost completely contemporary, but eventually, this small paranormal aspect evolves until it completely changes one whole aspect of the plot. And to be honest I kind of loved it! I'm very excited to find out more about this mysterious side that unexpectedly reminded me of one of my favorite horror movies. Expect to be highly anticipating its sequel after this crazy cliffhanger ending!
Burn for Burn is like a guilty pleasure; you should know better, but you're secretly enthused by the anticipation of seeing these people get what's coming for them. Han and Vivian's writing styles blends flawlessly together, leaving us with an enchanting story full of energy and spice.
--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
September 25, 2015
My reaction to the sort-of-cliffhanger ending:
Yup. Burn For Burn is that good.
It's told from the POVs of three different girls, Lillia, Kat, and Mary, who meet by chance in a bathroom during the lowest points of their lives. Together, they plot to take down the people who have hurt them.
Mean Girls style.
You can always, always tell who's narrating because their voices are so distinctive. Unlike a certain dystopian, who only had two POVs, one of which was a different gender, and they couldn't get that right.
But back to the subject. If this were the Powerpuff Girls, Lillia would be the Blossom of the group.
She's the perpetual Good Girl, who follows her parents' orders and is fiercely protective of her sister, mostly through her mother's schooling. But she also isn't afraid to get her hands dirty to protect aforementioned sister. Her motive for revenge on Alex, her best friend, is extremely sympathetic. Even when I noticed glaring plot holes in her line of logic, I forgave her because
Mary is Bubbles, slightly native and as sweet as a Disney chipmunk.
She used to be fat and body-shamed for it by Reeve, a cocky douche that would be right at home in a typical Paranormal Romance. Reeve caused Mary to , a move made even more dickheaded by the fact that they were friends on the down low. Because His Majesty couldn't be seen with a fat girl.
Obviously Mary wants Reeve to drown in boiling oil for what he did to her, but she wants him to notice and like her too. Normally, I'd condemn the hell out of this dysfunctional relationship. However, in this case, I get it. They were friends once, no matter what he did later.
And Jenny Han makes it so you can see Reeve's point of view. It's A Game of Thrones level of characterization and damn, if it doesn't make the storyline all the more compelling.
That's Jenny Han up there.
Kat is obviously Buttercup. She's tough and doesn't take shit from nobody. 'Nuff said.
She's the one who thought of the idea of revenge and the one who pushes the girls on when they have second thoughts. Rennie, the Regina to her Janis, has backstabbed her one too many times and now her knife's polished and ready to shine.
Aside from the revenge plot, important issues like rape, suicide, and bullying are mentioned. They don't take over the plot, but serve as interesting back-stories and side plots.
The romance element is extremely messy though. Person A loves Person B. Person B turns out to be in love with Person C, who may have an interest in Person D. Person D likes both Person C and Person E, but Person E got lost in translation and thinks he's hooking up with Person C's baby sister. Oh, and let's not forget Person F who's a little in love with Person B.
You guys still with me?
Fortunately, the tangled love lives of the Jar High teens take a backseat to plot, which is pure, unadulterated goodness. Could have done without the tiny Carrie-like magic element, but it kept me entertained and that's all I ask.
And yes, I will be reading the sequel. A pox upon all cliffhangers everywhere!
Yup. Burn For Burn is that good.
It's told from the POVs of three different girls, Lillia, Kat, and Mary, who meet by chance in a bathroom during the lowest points of their lives. Together, they plot to take down the people who have hurt them.
Mean Girls style.
You can always, always tell who's narrating because their voices are so distinctive. Unlike a certain dystopian, who only had two POVs, one of which was a different gender, and they couldn't get that right.
But back to the subject. If this were the Powerpuff Girls, Lillia would be the Blossom of the group.
She's the perpetual Good Girl, who follows her parents' orders and is fiercely protective of her sister, mostly through her mother's schooling. But she also isn't afraid to get her hands dirty to protect aforementioned sister. Her motive for revenge on Alex, her best friend, is extremely sympathetic. Even when I noticed glaring plot holes in her line of logic, I forgave her because
Mary is Bubbles, slightly native and as sweet as a Disney chipmunk.
She used to be fat and body-shamed for it by Reeve, a cocky douche that would be right at home in a typical Paranormal Romance. Reeve caused Mary to , a move made even more dickheaded by the fact that they were friends on the down low. Because His Majesty couldn't be seen with a fat girl.
Obviously Mary wants Reeve to drown in boiling oil for what he did to her, but she wants him to notice and like her too. Normally, I'd condemn the hell out of this dysfunctional relationship. However, in this case, I get it. They were friends once, no matter what he did later.
And Jenny Han makes it so you can see Reeve's point of view. It's A Game of Thrones level of characterization and damn, if it doesn't make the storyline all the more compelling.
That's Jenny Han up there.
Kat is obviously Buttercup. She's tough and doesn't take shit from nobody. 'Nuff said.
She's the one who thought of the idea of revenge and the one who pushes the girls on when they have second thoughts. Rennie, the Regina to her Janis, has backstabbed her one too many times and now her knife's polished and ready to shine.
Aside from the revenge plot, important issues like rape, suicide, and bullying are mentioned. They don't take over the plot, but serve as interesting back-stories and side plots.
The romance element is extremely messy though. Person A loves Person B. Person B turns out to be in love with Person C, who may have an interest in Person D. Person D likes both Person C and Person E, but Person E got lost in translation and thinks he's hooking up with Person C's baby sister. Oh, and let's not forget Person F who's a little in love with Person B.
You guys still with me?
Fortunately, the tangled love lives of the Jar High teens take a backseat to plot, which is pure, unadulterated goodness. Could have done without the tiny Carrie-like magic element, but it kept me entertained and that's all I ask.
And yes, I will be reading the sequel. A pox upon all cliffhangers everywhere!
February 17, 2017
"I’m sick of waiting for karma. Karma can suck it!"
A novel about revenge! Three girls conspire to finally punish High School’s most popular, meanest kids. I definitely want! That was really refreshing and entertaining.
I couldn’t stop laughing, but definitely not at the sad fate of those who deserved it but on the way the three girls plan and execute their revenge. It’s just too funny. I applaud the authors for making me feel really sympathetic towards all of the characters because as much as I find myself nodding in satisfaction with these ladies at the success of their schemes, understanding their need to avenge themselves being victims of bullying and ridicule, I also feel bad for those on the receiving end of the girls’ wrath because although they could be really hateful, I get that they are just really broken so they use popularity and meanness as self-defense.
What I really liked though is how a sort of bond formed among these three girls who were once just strangers to each other. I also like that the story is told in the perspectives of the three girls, Mary, Kat and Lilia. You get to see how distinct each of their mind works and you get to know each of them more closely and relatably. And that ending is crazy! Did Mary just go all Carrie on the party?! I have to find out.
A novel about revenge! Three girls conspire to finally punish High School’s most popular, meanest kids. I definitely want! That was really refreshing and entertaining.
I couldn’t stop laughing, but definitely not at the sad fate of those who deserved it but on the way the three girls plan and execute their revenge. It’s just too funny. I applaud the authors for making me feel really sympathetic towards all of the characters because as much as I find myself nodding in satisfaction with these ladies at the success of their schemes, understanding their need to avenge themselves being victims of bullying and ridicule, I also feel bad for those on the receiving end of the girls’ wrath because although they could be really hateful, I get that they are just really broken so they use popularity and meanness as self-defense.
What I really liked though is how a sort of bond formed among these three girls who were once just strangers to each other. I also like that the story is told in the perspectives of the three girls, Mary, Kat and Lilia. You get to see how distinct each of their mind works and you get to know each of them more closely and relatably. And that ending is crazy! Did Mary just go all Carrie on the party?! I have to find out.
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December 17, 2018
I have the copy of this book series for almost 5 years and when I saw them in my storage, I thought I should start reading them. The story of this series reminds me of the 90s teen movies like
Cruel Intentions, Mean Girls,
and
Jawbreaker.
Although taking a revenge against vile people is sort of a cliché, I enjoyed reading because it has the vibe 90s era and that
Jenny Han
really captivated me because of the way she narrated it.
Kat is my favorite among the three main characters, and Lillia is my least fave because of how she was presented as perfect or goody two shoes and that a lot of boys goes ga-ga over her. On the other hand, Mary is a like a big mystery ready to unfold because I reckon that there's something behind those snippets of her past.
I can't believe that I stayed up late for 3 consecutive nights just to finish this book and I guess it is really worth it because I enjoyed reading it.
Kat is my favorite among the three main characters, and Lillia is my least fave because of how she was presented as perfect or goody two shoes and that a lot of boys goes ga-ga over her. On the other hand, Mary is a like a big mystery ready to unfold because I reckon that there's something behind those snippets of her past.
I can't believe that I stayed up late for 3 consecutive nights just to finish this book and I guess it is really worth it because I enjoyed reading it.
May 7, 2012
"Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves."
-Confucius
"Oh, here go hell come."
-Calvin Tran
I love revenge stories. Whether it's Edmond Dantes in Count of Monte Cristo or Beatrix Kiddo in Kill Bill, there's just something about characters who say, No. Not anymore. Not again.
In Burn for Burn, we meet three characters -- a princess, a basket case, a brain. The chapters alternate between their points of view as we discover how they end up on a collision course of revenge. The book opens on Mary Zane, who is on the ferry to Jar Island, returning home after an extended, self-imposed absence. Mary's story is the most mysterious. Not only does she have secrets, but her secrets have secrets. Lillia Cho is pretty and popular, a girl used to getting what she wants though her wealthy family ensures she doesn't want for much. However, none of that prevents her from getting what she doesn't want. Kat DeBrassio is a townie, a local determined to get off Jar Island after years of rumors reducing her reputation to trash. She's had to deal with tougher problems though, like losing her mother, so these rumors -- and the source of them -- don't get to her. Until they do. Each girl is set off by events to act, to no longer be passive recipients of other people's shit.
From the beginning, as "the mist breaks into lace" and Jar Island is unveiled, it had my attention. This novel is, for lack of a better word, delicious. Revenge is so sweet. ...But there's a reason why Confucius has been around since Before Christ. What happens after the wheels have been set in motion and you discover you didn't have the whole story? Or that your target changed for the better? Or even if the source of your humiliation is as bad as you think, how low do you go? There are so many shifting layers to this story. A huge part of that is due to the well-drawn supporting characters. The line between friend and foe, which seems so sharply drawn at first, becomes blurry as we learn more about the characters, and I found my sympathies ping-ponging from side to side.
Mary, Lillia, and Kat each have their own motivations and are determined to mete out consequences as they see fit. It cracked me up when Kat got stuck in the bureaucracy of it all though.
Bonus points: Non-stereotypical minority main character! Lower-middle class characters. Rally girls, which reminded me of Friday Night Lights. That gorgeous cover, which depicts the characters pretty accurately.
I was surprised by how much I liked Burn for Burn. It hit the right notes of friendship, revenge, and anticipation, and I just sunk my teeth into it. The writing between Han and Vivian is seamless. I imagine it was perfected over years of sending texts and emails back and forth as only BFFs can. As I said immediately after I finished the book, I hope Han and Vivian gave each other one of these because they deserve it:
I'm going to be a bit of a figure skating judge on my rating because you can't give the first performance a perfect score, especially when you know the second one can be even better. Overall, this was a very exciting start to a trilogy and Book 2 is going on my "frenzied anticipation" list.
Rating: 4/5 stars.
I received this copy from the publisher. No other compensation was received. Just as an aside, when my grandmother tasted the Thanksgiving turkey I had spent hours slaving over, she said, "It's not as good as last year's (catered) turkey." When I looked over at my mother, she said, "Well, she's right. And you gained some weight, didn't you?" Being honest is embedded, for better or for worse, in my genetic code.
This review appears on Young Adult Anonymous.
-Confucius
"Oh, here go hell come."
-Calvin Tran
I love revenge stories. Whether it's Edmond Dantes in Count of Monte Cristo or Beatrix Kiddo in Kill Bill, there's just something about characters who say, No. Not anymore. Not again.
In Burn for Burn, we meet three characters -- a princess, a basket case, a brain. The chapters alternate between their points of view as we discover how they end up on a collision course of revenge. The book opens on Mary Zane, who is on the ferry to Jar Island, returning home after an extended, self-imposed absence. Mary's story is the most mysterious. Not only does she have secrets, but her secrets have secrets. Lillia Cho is pretty and popular, a girl used to getting what she wants though her wealthy family ensures she doesn't want for much. However, none of that prevents her from getting what she doesn't want. Kat DeBrassio is a townie, a local determined to get off Jar Island after years of rumors reducing her reputation to trash. She's had to deal with tougher problems though, like losing her mother, so these rumors -- and the source of them -- don't get to her. Until they do. Each girl is set off by events to act, to no longer be passive recipients of other people's shit.
From the beginning, as "the mist breaks into lace" and Jar Island is unveiled, it had my attention. This novel is, for lack of a better word, delicious. Revenge is so sweet. ...But there's a reason why Confucius has been around since Before Christ. What happens after the wheels have been set in motion and you discover you didn't have the whole story? Or that your target changed for the better? Or even if the source of your humiliation is as bad as you think, how low do you go? There are so many shifting layers to this story. A huge part of that is due to the well-drawn supporting characters. The line between friend and foe, which seems so sharply drawn at first, becomes blurry as we learn more about the characters, and I found my sympathies ping-ponging from side to side.
Mary, Lillia, and Kat each have their own motivations and are determined to mete out consequences as they see fit. It cracked me up when Kat got stuck in the bureaucracy of it all though.
"As amped as I am about doing this, it's sort of annoying. I mean, basically my whole night is going to be spent doing this crap."Zombies have shown that there are really only two certain things in life: taxes and bureaucracy. There aren't any zombies in this story, but there is a paranormal element. I hesitate to mention it because the minute people hear that word, it's either an immediate turn on or turn off, and really, it's just one layer of this multi-layered story. Even better, not one of those layers is a love triangle. There is love, but in this book (the first of a planned trilogy), friendships are the most explored relationships. Considering this book was written by two best friends in Jenny Han and Siobhan Vivian, I'm not surprised. I've never read a Siobhan Vivian book, though I plan to now, but I read Jenny Han's Summer Series last year. While I liked it, the main character felt a little young. That is not an issue in Burn for Burn. I was rubbing my hands together after the first few chapters.
Bonus points: Non-stereotypical minority main character! Lower-middle class characters. Rally girls, which reminded me of Friday Night Lights. That gorgeous cover, which depicts the characters pretty accurately.
I was surprised by how much I liked Burn for Burn. It hit the right notes of friendship, revenge, and anticipation, and I just sunk my teeth into it. The writing between Han and Vivian is seamless. I imagine it was perfected over years of sending texts and emails back and forth as only BFFs can. As I said immediately after I finished the book, I hope Han and Vivian gave each other one of these because they deserve it:
I'm going to be a bit of a figure skating judge on my rating because you can't give the first performance a perfect score, especially when you know the second one can be even better. Overall, this was a very exciting start to a trilogy and Book 2 is going on my "frenzied anticipation" list.
Rating: 4/5 stars.
I received this copy from the publisher. No other compensation was received. Just as an aside, when my grandmother tasted the Thanksgiving turkey I had spent hours slaving over, she said, "It's not as good as last year's (catered) turkey." When I looked over at my mother, she said, "Well, she's right. And you gained some weight, didn't you?" Being honest is embedded, for better or for worse, in my genetic code.
This review appears on Young Adult Anonymous.
November 7, 2016
Omg guys, this book was so damn incredible !. I was holding my breath all the way, I'm in shock right now.
5/5 Stars!!
“It took a long time for me to get better, but I did. I got better. But suddenly it's like the last four years never happened, and I'm feeling all the same terrible feelings about myself that I did back then.”
Burn for Burn is a book that grabs you from the first moment, I've fetl immediately hoked, I didn't have problems with the story, was soooo good, since writing is super easy and pleasant to read.
The plot is about three completely different girls, Kat, Lillia and Mary, who live on the same island. Each of these girls has a personal problem with a person who have hurt and marked her enough to decide to take revenge on them. Once the destination crosses them, they realize how they can carry out their revenges better, helping the each other.
The book is divided into chapters, each of which is for each girl, which is great because we can see how each of her lives and feels the different situations, and also allows us to get to know more to the girls
I love the fact that the story takes place in an island, I think that adds that touch of mystery and suspense needed to the plot . The way the island is created combines the luxurious side and the poorer side of society in a very intelligent way.
The feeling of watching everything in my head, like a tv series or something, was constant, highlighting that the writing style is detailed and accurate to make that possible, when I say that, isn't mean that be heavy at any time.
If Gossip Girl had a baby with Pretty Litle Liars I think it would be some like this book.
The characters are the typical teenagers, we have from the Queen B, who all hate but follow anyway, to the Popular Guy who all want but behaves like an idiot, and that is why, of course, we have a lot of drama and drama and more drama.
The main characters seemes very good to me, I think the fact that the three girls were so different in personality, makes much more interesting plot and for this same reason you never know what decisions they'll take each
Kat is the tough of the group, what I like about this character is that she has a very strong personality and I think it's a natural leader for the group of the three girls, I also like the fact that she willn't let anyone influence her way of being, I would describe her as a bad girl, but shows that has a big heart on more than one occasion.
“This is Karma. I’m a bitch. Can you think of anyone who deserves a bitch slap? - Kat”
Difinitivamente Mary is my favorite of the three, has a very sweet and sensitive personality, has a very strong and sad past and shows how you can get out and move on and she has also returned to the island to face all that hurt her once, is one of those characters who hope to see grow more.
Plus, she give us, without doubt, the most shocking plot twist that I've read,I didn't expect that!!. OMG Mary is a little Carrie!
I can say Lillia is the least I like ot the three, but I still want to know more about her and although I think it's capable of many things hasn't shown much in this book, on the other hand I love how she protects her sister and how much mediator she is shows a very warm soul , yet his personality is quite manageable for me.
I wouldn't know how to describe the romance in this book because I'm not sure there is one really, as any drama, I think we're into a loving triangle soon , but as the book is focused on revenge, I think it has left the romance one little aside, so, there are still many feelings involved and there will be more, guys, I can feel the betrayals coming!
Highly recommended !, I can't wait to continue this series because the ending was devastating and I need answers now!
August 24, 2018
Yeah nah. Was not a fan.
There are three POVs. That is 2 too many; cannot deal.
NOBODY HAS LOGIC OR CHARACTER MOTIVATIONS WHYYYYYYY??!!
So much stereotype, so much cliche.
But even at the end I couldn't remember who wanted revenge on who for what...?
I hated all the characters so that was great (not)
All of their plans were really dumb, childish, or dangerous and I just... NAH FAM!!!
There is so much cringe and so many bad decisions I cannot deal.
And I don't see at all what was to like about this book.
I had such high hopes, but I was so disappointed :(
There are three POVs. That is 2 too many; cannot deal.
NOBODY HAS LOGIC OR CHARACTER MOTIVATIONS WHYYYYYYY??!!
So much stereotype, so much cliche.
But even at the end I couldn't remember who wanted revenge on who for what...?
I hated all the characters so that was great (not)
All of their plans were really dumb, childish, or dangerous and I just... NAH FAM!!!
There is so much cringe and so many bad decisions I cannot deal.
And I don't see at all what was to like about this book.
I had such high hopes, but I was so disappointed :(
June 9, 2023
3.5
Alright, this book was filled with every ridiculous high school stereotype ever, and is so unrealistic. However, I am hooked so I guess that really didn't matter.
Alright, this book was filled with every ridiculous high school stereotype ever, and is so unrealistic. However, I am hooked so I guess that really didn't matter.
December 4, 2013
Well I'll start off with what I didn't like;
-The ending.
-The fact that NOTHING happened between Alex and Lillia.
Ok, other than the ending I was glued to these pages but I was so disappointed by the end.
It was not what I expected, it was a let down to be honest.
This would have worked better as one book. A series on this plot? Boring!
It was real, real good nearly all the way through and if it ended as one big blow out it would have been totally worth five stars, but the ending sucked and a series will only drag out what we all know will happen. The truth will come out in the end, it always does..
-The ending.
-The fact that NOTHING happened between Alex and Lillia.
Ok, other than the ending I was glued to these pages but I was so disappointed by the end.
It was not what I expected, it was a let down to be honest.
This would have worked better as one book. A series on this plot? Boring!
It was real, real good nearly all the way through and if it ended as one big blow out it would have been totally worth five stars, but the ending sucked and a series will only drag out what we all know will happen. The truth will come out in the end, it always does..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2019
“This is Karma. I’m a bitch. Can you think of anyone who deserves a bitch slap? - Kat”
April 9, 2020
“I’m sick of waiting for karma.’’
Jenny Han, To All The Boys... didn't like the movie. Not for me. Also not really into romance. I mention it because I haven't read anything she has written and I’m not planning to. Ain't going to compare it to her other work. I got this because it was 3€ and I wanted to rant. I mean does this sound like something I wouldn't hate?
I need to read the descriptions of books I randomly buy because duuude fuck me. This is gonna be ffuuunn... btw I may buy book 3 someday this year because it's also hella cheap and I hate myself.
Some people said it's trying too hard to be Gossip Girl or PLL... I hate both.
This is a revenge story and bitch love that but god it sucked. The revenge stories were such a letdown. So fucking lame and cheesy.
''I’m her big sister. It’s my job to look out for her, to keep her safe.''
Let ur sister live her life. Damn u weirdo.
⚫So one of them gets raped and shit was so random and underdeveloped. You can take it out and nothing would have changed. What was the fucking point? I legit forgot about it and the only reason I remembered it is because I’m reading some reviews. I don't even remember who got raped. I’m guessing it was Lil.
⚫Carrie prom scenes aren't fucking cool or revolutionary. 50 other people have done it better than you. LEAVE CARRIE ALONE! To be fair the last 3chapters were the only interesting part.
Sooo I wouldn't call it bad. I would call it boring and lame. Everything was so meh. John Tucker Must Die is a fun revenge teen comedy. Watch that or Carrie. You know what, Revenge 2017 was more entertaining than this and I fucking hate that movie.
I wanna give it 3 stars but I think that's the quarantine talking.... I wanna watch Heathers.
February 28, 2015
[4.5 Stars]
This was so much fun! LOVED IT!
This was so much fun! LOVED IT!
May 4, 2015
Video review to come!!
April 30, 2014
Loved it!
This is such a fun story, and so easy to read.
It's super fast-paced and I had such a hard time putting it down. I loved all of the characters, they each have their own personalities and I love how they all interacted.
The plot is so interesting, even though it's a little predictable. I can't wait to read the next book!
This is such a fun story, and so easy to read.
It's super fast-paced and I had such a hard time putting it down. I loved all of the characters, they each have their own personalities and I love how they all interacted.
The plot is so interesting, even though it's a little predictable. I can't wait to read the next book!
Want to read
December 21, 2011Now I'm pissed! Jenny Han was one of the best Contemporary, Realistic fiction writers ever! Why must she go and write Supernatural, fantasy fiction???? This is so upsetting because most fantasy-fic writers, do not really write good books. so if she writes a crappy book and I read it, I won't remember her for the awesome We'll Always Have Summer but for the crappy job she did with a fantasy book. Ugh. For some, you might think this is stupid of me and petty. It most definitely is. Guess I will find out how it turns out when it comes out.
June 17, 2018
Re-read June 2018 - I listened to the story this time around, and I loved it so much. The characters have such unique voices, and the tension really builds throughout. It was lower paced than I remembered, but I'm pleased that it had so much re-reading power. The characters have a completely new context after finishing the series once before!
Review: http://heartfullofbooks.com/2014/06/0...
Review: http://heartfullofbooks.com/2014/06/0...
May 26, 2018
3.5 Sterne
Der Schreibstil ist wirklich super und das Buch liest sich toll. Allerdings haben mich die 3 Mädels gerade zu Beginn ganz schön genervt, da sie teilweise echt oberflächlich handeln. Auch die Spannung entwickelt sich nur langsam, das hätte eindeutig mehr sein können..
Der Schreibstil ist wirklich super und das Buch liest sich toll. Allerdings haben mich die 3 Mädels gerade zu Beginn ganz schön genervt, da sie teilweise echt oberflächlich handeln. Auch die Spannung entwickelt sich nur langsam, das hätte eindeutig mehr sein können..
August 20, 2015
Book was first read in November of 2012. My thoughts thoughts then: THIS BOOK WAS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. I don't have one single complaint.
Rating: 5 stars
Book was re-read in August of 2015. My thoughts now: Just as good as the first time, if not better. I am totally hooked on this story and I am going to jump straight into the second book.
Rating: still 5 stars
Rating: 5 stars
Book was re-read in August of 2015. My thoughts now: Just as good as the first time, if not better. I am totally hooked on this story and I am going to jump straight into the second book.
Rating: still 5 stars
October 16, 2015
3 1/2
“This is Karma. I’m a bitch.
Can you think of anyone who deserves a bitch slap?”
Book Two: Fire with Fire - 4,5 Stars
Book Three: Ashes to Ashes- 2 Stars
This is a story of three different girls coming together. Three allies that are craving revenge. Set in high school.
The story itself isn't hard to follow. As I said there are three girls.
Mary has been gone for a while. She returned to Jar Island,went to it's high school because of something that happened in her past. A person she thought nearly a friend betraying her. Now she just wants closure.
Kat seeks revenge on her ex best friend Rennie who treats her like garbage and spreads lies about her.
Lillia is the popular girl. Rennie's best friend. But once a boy she trusts uses her younger sister she is about ready for revenge herself.
And then the girls meet at a school bathroom. And decide to actually take revenge. Together.
More than anything this book was fun. It's cliched but it's not so cliched it's unenjoyable.
The main characters have distinct voices. Lillia that was my favorite is a good girl but with a strong side to her. She wants to protect her sister from things that shadow her own experience. Finding out her secret made me love her even more.
Kat is tough. She lost her mom when she was a little younger and then she lost her friendships. I didn't like her as much as Lillia but still did.
Mary was the innocent sweet one. She was my least favorite of the three but her feelings toward the revenge plot were very realistic. Despite the fact that the guy betrayed her she still sees that he wasn't a horrible monster.
That was my favorite thing about the book (the trilogy to be correct). None of the "villains" of the story is really horrible. They all have reasons and you can see that each of them can be good too. And the good guys (our main girls) can be bad. And their own revenge can make a really big mess.
The plot execution was mediocre. It was fun to read, a nice distraction for me but it could be better. It had a certain lightness to it even though the story dealt with some serious subjects as well as with drama.
The romance is there though confusing. If you are looking for an easy romance story you won't find it in this one (but there is cuteness-even if mixed with a lot of complications- in the second one). People love people all over the place.
There is also a paranormal aspect (that gets bigger with every book). That was my biggest complaint about the book and the series. I really wished the books would just stay purely contemporary. And then there is the "what genre do I shelve this as?" fiasco.
All In All: A fun page turner. It's cliched but it keeps you interested. I'm giving it the thumbs up.
October 5, 2012
Burn for Burn is such an exciting read. Lillia, Kat and Mary tell this riveting story in three distinct voices that will keep you up late reading. I can't wait to see what happens next in this hot trilogy!
August 27, 2017
Eine tolle Geschichte, wenn man sich nicht an zickigen Mädchen und viel zu sehr von sich selbst überzeugten Jungs stört ! 😉 Mir hat es super gut gefallen, und ich mache ich mich gleich über Band 2 her.
June 5, 2015
Okay let me just say that this book is perfect to read if you're in a reading slump!
It's so fun and such a fast read!
It's a bit cliche but it's also really fun!
It's so fun and such a fast read!
It's a bit cliche but it's also really fun!
March 18, 2018
I'd say 4.5 stars, just because it did have a lot of flaws, but I really really enjoyed this book.
I read the entire thing in under 24 hours, and loved every second. I was thoroughly immersed in the writing, the characters, the setting, and the revenge story. I haven't read a book this quickly in a long time and it was a ton of fun.
I really only had 2 little qualms about it. I did not like the weird Carrie-like twist at the end. It makes me worry about the next 2 books and whether they will hold the same enjoyment this one did since what I liked about it was the contemporary aspect of it.
I also didn't like how sexual assault is really just brushed aside in this. There was an instance of sexual assault in the book, well we got to hear that it happened, but I didn't like how the character seemingly "got over it" and the effects basically stopped being talked about after the one day, and once we got the full story, it was really never brought up or talked about again. It's not underplayed in the slightest, and it wasn't shied about, but it just seemed like the character got over it and it felt weird that it never came up again.
Otherwise I just devoured this book and really ended up enjoying the entire thing. I cannot wait to continue the series and see where it goes, despite my worry about the Carrie thing.
I read the entire thing in under 24 hours, and loved every second. I was thoroughly immersed in the writing, the characters, the setting, and the revenge story. I haven't read a book this quickly in a long time and it was a ton of fun.
I really only had 2 little qualms about it. I did not like the weird Carrie-like twist at the end. It makes me worry about the next 2 books and whether they will hold the same enjoyment this one did since what I liked about it was the contemporary aspect of it.
I also didn't like how sexual assault is really just brushed aside in this. There was an instance of sexual assault in the book, well we got to hear that it happened, but I didn't like how the character seemingly "got over it" and the effects basically stopped being talked about after the one day, and once we got the full story, it was really never brought up or talked about again. It's not underplayed in the slightest, and it wasn't shied about, but it just seemed like the character got over it and it felt weird that it never came up again.
Otherwise I just devoured this book and really ended up enjoying the entire thing. I cannot wait to continue the series and see where it goes, despite my worry about the Carrie thing.
January 10, 2016
3.5
Gostei muito desse livro. Ele fica meio louco e ridículo no final, com a parte paranormal e , mas em geral eu me diverti horrores com as estupidezes dessas três.
Definitivamente a minha favorita é a Kat, apesar de ser a mais precipitada. Eu gosto da Lilia e acho que ela foi a melhor desenvolvida das três nesse livro. O elo mais fraco é a Mary, o que é irônico considerando o que acontece no final.
Outra grande reclamação que eu tenho é que a estrutura da estória ficou meio estranha para mim e o livro acaba de repente. Apesar de ter um grande clímax no final, achava que fosse ser mais bombástico do que foi. O suspense foi curto e a finalização foi abrupta.
Acho que como tudo acaba foi proposital da parte das autoras - - e foi muito legal isso, mas ainda assim senti que ficou faltando mais.
Pegarei o segundo imediatamente, pois eu quero saber o que acontece.
Gostei muito desse livro. Ele fica meio louco e ridículo no final, com a parte paranormal e , mas em geral eu me diverti horrores com as estupidezes dessas três.
Definitivamente a minha favorita é a Kat, apesar de ser a mais precipitada. Eu gosto da Lilia e acho que ela foi a melhor desenvolvida das três nesse livro. O elo mais fraco é a Mary, o que é irônico considerando o que acontece no final.
Outra grande reclamação que eu tenho é que a estrutura da estória ficou meio estranha para mim e o livro acaba de repente. Apesar de ter um grande clímax no final, achava que fosse ser mais bombástico do que foi. O suspense foi curto e a finalização foi abrupta.
Acho que como tudo acaba foi proposital da parte das autoras - - e foi muito legal isso, mas ainda assim senti que ficou faltando mais.
Pegarei o segundo imediatamente, pois eu quero saber o que acontece.
December 17, 2014
Buddy read with my wonderful friend, Maria
Welp. That wasn't what I expected. In many ways I think I've been putting this one off because I knew it wasn't going to be what I wanted. It's not that it didn't have it's exceptional moments where I found some immense enjoyment out of the three girls' bonding experiences or the revenge they were seeking on the individuals who treated them badly. But, at the risk of sounding hoity toity, it all just came across so....juvenile.
So many people liked this book and I have to think that maybe I just wasn't in the mood for it-but then I start to backtrack and wonder: would I have enjoyed the cliquey cliches even months ago, even when I was in the mood? Would I have enjoyed the somewhat childish conversations everyone seemed to have? And, most of all, would the fact that those people didn't deserve to have even a little of their lives ruined bother me? And I have to believe that, even when I was excited about this book, it all still would have bothered me.
And that's not even mentioning probably my biggest problem with the whole book: Every single scene or idea seemed like a contrived, watered down, wannabe version of other books and movies that, frankly, did it way better. I feel so bad saying that, but it doesn't change the fact that every other page I kept seeing Janice from Mean Girls or Brittany Snow from John Tucker Must Die. Literally every single scene had me unintentionally thinking of other movies I have watched over and over again and loved in the past ten years of my life: Mean Girls, John Tucker Must Die, and I know there was one other that I just can't remember at the moment. And then it also reminded me of a book that I LOATHED-*The Keatyn Chronicles*-though I must say Burn for Burn was written way better and had a little more class. That much I can say for it.
Which leads me here. People loved it. Hell, I even loved the idea of getting revenge on the bitches that I felt wronged me back in the day. Don't we all have that secret little (if only a minuscule, tiny piece) place where we wish people that were cruel would get what's coming to them? So yes, on that level I enjoyed it-that's why I couldn't one star this story. The writing was great. The IDEA of all of it was great. I just...something was missing. I rolled my eyes more often than not, the only character I really and truly connected with was Lillia (And Mary, sometimes-she could be a bit pathetic...I don't know) and that's only because I could see some humanity in her even as she hung out with the devil. Her love for her little sister was great and I could totally relate, remembering how protective (I still am) of my little sister I was when she started to stray from the path. But nothing could really ground me and connect me to this story. At the end of the day, all I could think of was how annoying Kat was (And I felt a tad trashy, for that matter), how I wished Mary could move on, and how Lillia was going to be heartbroken after all the acts they planned against her 'friends.'
So, all in all, I don't know if I'll ever continue to the next book. It all seemed so petty, which of course it was supposed to be, and I felt bad for the people they targeted. Some of the things they had planned were vile, but then I felt some fell short. I don't know HOW the plan at the end would truly scar Rennie-it seemed very small, really, compared to everyone else's revenge. I just, AGH. I don't know. I suppose I never will. It's one of those books that is a super easy read, fast-paced, and fun if you are in the mood. In the end, I guess I just really, really, really was not in the mood. Maybe next time.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Welp. That wasn't what I expected. In many ways I think I've been putting this one off because I knew it wasn't going to be what I wanted. It's not that it didn't have it's exceptional moments where I found some immense enjoyment out of the three girls' bonding experiences or the revenge they were seeking on the individuals who treated them badly. But, at the risk of sounding hoity toity, it all just came across so....juvenile.
So many people liked this book and I have to think that maybe I just wasn't in the mood for it-but then I start to backtrack and wonder: would I have enjoyed the cliquey cliches even months ago, even when I was in the mood? Would I have enjoyed the somewhat childish conversations everyone seemed to have? And, most of all, would the fact that those people didn't deserve to have even a little of their lives ruined bother me? And I have to believe that, even when I was excited about this book, it all still would have bothered me.
And that's not even mentioning probably my biggest problem with the whole book: Every single scene or idea seemed like a contrived, watered down, wannabe version of other books and movies that, frankly, did it way better. I feel so bad saying that, but it doesn't change the fact that every other page I kept seeing Janice from Mean Girls or Brittany Snow from John Tucker Must Die. Literally every single scene had me unintentionally thinking of other movies I have watched over and over again and loved in the past ten years of my life: Mean Girls, John Tucker Must Die, and I know there was one other that I just can't remember at the moment. And then it also reminded me of a book that I LOATHED-*The Keatyn Chronicles*-though I must say Burn for Burn was written way better and had a little more class. That much I can say for it.
Which leads me here. People loved it. Hell, I even loved the idea of getting revenge on the bitches that I felt wronged me back in the day. Don't we all have that secret little (if only a minuscule, tiny piece) place where we wish people that were cruel would get what's coming to them? So yes, on that level I enjoyed it-that's why I couldn't one star this story. The writing was great. The IDEA of all of it was great. I just...something was missing. I rolled my eyes more often than not, the only character I really and truly connected with was Lillia (And Mary, sometimes-she could be a bit pathetic...I don't know) and that's only because I could see some humanity in her even as she hung out with the devil. Her love for her little sister was great and I could totally relate, remembering how protective (I still am) of my little sister I was when she started to stray from the path. But nothing could really ground me and connect me to this story. At the end of the day, all I could think of was how annoying Kat was (And I felt a tad trashy, for that matter), how I wished Mary could move on, and how Lillia was going to be heartbroken after all the acts they planned against her 'friends.'
So, all in all, I don't know if I'll ever continue to the next book. It all seemed so petty, which of course it was supposed to be, and I felt bad for the people they targeted. Some of the things they had planned were vile, but then I felt some fell short. I don't know HOW the plan at the end would truly scar Rennie-it seemed very small, really, compared to everyone else's revenge. I just, AGH. I don't know. I suppose I never will. It's one of those books that is a super easy read, fast-paced, and fun if you are in the mood. In the end, I guess I just really, really, really was not in the mood. Maybe next time.
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July 14, 2017
“This is Karma. I'm a bitch. Can you think of anyone who deserves a bitch slap?"
Three girls, all seeking revenge on people who wronged them. The only way they can truly achieve the best revenge is if they work together. When the bad girl, the cheerleader and the new girl come together, all hell breaks loose as they seek their revenge.
Burn for Burn is a lovely quick read. The characters will touch your hearts and the plot line will have you falling off your chair.
I honestly don't know which character I liked more. While I liked Mary, she wasn't my favourite, thats for sure. But I really loved both Kat and Lillia. Kat is the badass girl that everyone envies, she's not afraid to do anything and is so loyal and strong that you can't help but fall in love with her good side. Lillia is basically the girl I've always dreamed of being, she's smart, kind and rich. Her love for her sister was so wonderful, I really admire Lillia's character.
I loved that the story was a bit on the shorter side, it doesn't take very long to finish. Even though its short, the authors created some twists throughout the book that will make you want to finish the book in one sitting. I loved the climax of the story and how it ended, it was so wonderfully written.
The one aspect I didn't really like about the story, was the paranormal aspect. I was expecting this book to be more of a contemporary read going into it, and to my surprise one of the characters has some sort of magical powers. While I normally love that type of thing in stories, it seemed very forced and not well written in this story. Every time I came across it I couldn't help but cringe. Hopefully either the writing is better or there are some changes made to make the paranormal aspect a bit more interesting.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story, the characters were great and the plot was unpredictable. I can't wait to see what happens to the characters next.
Happy Reading,
Aneta
Three girls, all seeking revenge on people who wronged them. The only way they can truly achieve the best revenge is if they work together. When the bad girl, the cheerleader and the new girl come together, all hell breaks loose as they seek their revenge.
Burn for Burn is a lovely quick read. The characters will touch your hearts and the plot line will have you falling off your chair.
I honestly don't know which character I liked more. While I liked Mary, she wasn't my favourite, thats for sure. But I really loved both Kat and Lillia. Kat is the badass girl that everyone envies, she's not afraid to do anything and is so loyal and strong that you can't help but fall in love with her good side. Lillia is basically the girl I've always dreamed of being, she's smart, kind and rich. Her love for her sister was so wonderful, I really admire Lillia's character.
I loved that the story was a bit on the shorter side, it doesn't take very long to finish. Even though its short, the authors created some twists throughout the book that will make you want to finish the book in one sitting. I loved the climax of the story and how it ended, it was so wonderfully written.
The one aspect I didn't really like about the story, was the paranormal aspect. I was expecting this book to be more of a contemporary read going into it, and to my surprise one of the characters has some sort of magical powers. While I normally love that type of thing in stories, it seemed very forced and not well written in this story. Every time I came across it I couldn't help but cringe. Hopefully either the writing is better or there are some changes made to make the paranormal aspect a bit more interesting.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story, the characters were great and the plot was unpredictable. I can't wait to see what happens to the characters next.
Happy Reading,
Aneta
August 23, 2023
2,5/5
Mary, Kat i Lillia – trzy dziewczyny, które połączyła chęć zemsty.🫣
początek książki mocno mnie zaciekawił i wciągnął - mimo, że „akcja” zaczęła się tak mniej więcej od setnej strony. po opisie byłam bardzo ciekawa, na czym ta historia będzie polegać i… chyba po prostu liczyłam na więcej emocji, którymi strony nie były aż tak nasiąknięte. im dalej w las, tym bardziej czułam, że czytam trochę bardziej zapchajdziury niż fabułę, bo akcja biegła zupełnie mniejszym torem. później - faktycznie! bohaterki zaczęły planować zemstę i aż zacierałam rączki z ciekawości, bo nieczęsto spotykam się z takim motywem w książkach! pod tym względem nie zarzucam niczego - trzy zranione dziewczyny, decydują się połączyć siły i wspólnie dokonać zemsty. zupełnie różne charakterami i przede wszystkim światami, a jednak łączą się, by z potrójną mocą zadać „ból za ból”.
plany, planami, ale czy wszystko może pójść po ich myśli? co jak rzeczy wymkną się spod kontroli, a wózka, który puściły nie będzie dało się już zatrzymać przed katastrofą?
końcówka mnie bardziej przekonała - jest z tych, które aż proszą się o sięgniecie po kolejny tom. ostatnie strony na pewno wpłynęły ogromnie na plus!
niemniej - przeczytajcie sami, bo jak zawsze, jestem ciekawa Waszych opinii na temat książki, która wywołała we mnie różne i mieszane uczucia!☺️
Mary, Kat i Lillia – trzy dziewczyny, które połączyła chęć zemsty.🫣
początek książki mocno mnie zaciekawił i wciągnął - mimo, że „akcja” zaczęła się tak mniej więcej od setnej strony. po opisie byłam bardzo ciekawa, na czym ta historia będzie polegać i… chyba po prostu liczyłam na więcej emocji, którymi strony nie były aż tak nasiąknięte. im dalej w las, tym bardziej czułam, że czytam trochę bardziej zapchajdziury niż fabułę, bo akcja biegła zupełnie mniejszym torem. później - faktycznie! bohaterki zaczęły planować zemstę i aż zacierałam rączki z ciekawości, bo nieczęsto spotykam się z takim motywem w książkach! pod tym względem nie zarzucam niczego - trzy zranione dziewczyny, decydują się połączyć siły i wspólnie dokonać zemsty. zupełnie różne charakterami i przede wszystkim światami, a jednak łączą się, by z potrójną mocą zadać „ból za ból”.
plany, planami, ale czy wszystko może pójść po ich myśli? co jak rzeczy wymkną się spod kontroli, a wózka, który puściły nie będzie dało się już zatrzymać przed katastrofą?
końcówka mnie bardziej przekonała - jest z tych, które aż proszą się o sięgniecie po kolejny tom. ostatnie strony na pewno wpłynęły ogromnie na plus!
niemniej - przeczytajcie sami, bo jak zawsze, jestem ciekawa Waszych opinii na temat książki, która wywołała we mnie różne i mieszane uczucia!☺️
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