Bookishly Ever After (Ever After #1)by Isabel Bandeira
Publisher: Spencer Hill Contemporary
Release Date: January 12th 2016
Rate: 4 out of 5 stars
In a perfect world, sixteen-year-old Phoebe Martins’ life would be a book. Preferably a YA novel with magic and a hot paranormal love interest. Unfortunately, her life probably wouldn’t even qualify for a quiet contemporary. But when Phoebe finds out that Dev, the hottest guy in the clarinet section, might actually have a crush on her, she turns to her favorite books for advice. Phoebe overhauls her personality to become as awesome as her favorite heroines and win Dev’s heart. But if her plan fails, can she go back to her happy world of fictional boys after falling for the real thing?
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).
(This review may contain spoilers).
So… this was a book I had little to no trouble connecting with the main character in. Phoebe was a likable character and I really enjoyed seeing how she tried to measure her life against the book characters… and, of course, there was the whole ‘book boyfriends’ thing.
It was interesting to see the way Phoebe was pulled between the two guys. Although I don’t like love triangles, I felt this was more about how real life is better than fantasy. It was really sweet to see Dev and Phoebe interacting together, even though there were times I wanted to reach into the book and shake Phoebe.
I also really enjoyed seeing Phoebe interacting with her other friends, though it was hard to differentiate between them at first. Still, it was nice to see her interactions with Grace and Em… as well as with Alec.
I did feel that this book went on a bit too long. There were a lot of near-misses that caused some frustration. I did, however, enjoy the glimpses into the books Phoebe was reading… and also seeing some of the notes she made trying to apply them to her life.
I would have liked to see more of Phoebe interacting with her parents and sister. I enjoyed seeing her relationship with her sister, but it was disappointing that I only got a few glimpses into her family life.
Towards the end of the book, there were quite a few scenes that made me smile… especially when the campers were involved. I did feel like the book picked up speed when it got to that point… and I liked how the ending fit with Phoebe’s personality.
I very much enjoyed reading this book and in the future, I would definitely read more books by this author.
Isabel Bandeira grew up surrounded by trees and lakes in Southern New Jersey, right on the edge of the Pine Barrens. Her summers were always spent in Portugal, where the cathedrals, castles, and ancient tombs only fed her fairy tale obsession. Between all those influences and her serious glitter addiction, it wasn’t a surprise when she started writing stories of her own.
Isabel lives in New Jersey with her little black cat, too many books, and a closetful of vintage hats. She is represented by Carrie Howland of Donadio & Olson. BOOKISHLY EVER AFTER is her debut novel.
Ink of Blood 