Stealing Parker by Miranda Kenneally
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Expected publication:
October 1st 2012
By Sourcebooks Fire
Red-hot author Miranda Kenneally hits one out of the park in this return to Catching Jordan's Hundred Oaks High.
After a scandal rocks their conservative small town, 17-year-old Parker Shelton goes overboard trying to prove that she won't turn out like her mother: a lesbian. The all-star third-baseman quits the softball team, drops 20 pounds and starts making out with guys--a lot. But hitting on the hot new assistant baseball coach might be taking it a step too far...especially when he starts flirting back.
My Review:
I read "Catching Jordan" and LOVED it but I can't really say the same for "Stealing Parker". I have to admit the first half of this novel was a bit of a yawner for me. It didn't grab me like "Catching Jordan" did. I found myself wanting to put it down. But because I really liked her previous book, I just felt I have to keep on reading. It just had to get better.
Sadly, it took about 100 pages in when I felt things started getting good. And once it took off, I was in. As I continued reading I found myself kind of rooting for her. Which is totally wrong of me, being that the Coach is an adult and all. And he should know better, right? But Parker has been through enough and has been on the edge since her mom came out. However as events escalated, I clearly saw how wrong this all was for her.
This book had quite a bit of religion in it. But this is what I like about this whole religions aspect of "Stealing Parker". Religion is always highlighted as the way to go. But to me, Kenneally really nailed the religion part of this novel. It's not all great and non-judgmental. Even at church Parker didn't feel like she belonged. As the story progressed, more events took place, where Parker had to grow up and that's the best part of this book.
Overall, after those first initial 100 pages and the story picked up, I really did enjoy this story. I was happy that Parker grew and learned. I liked where the story went and how much Parker has changed from the beginning of the book. I just wish the story didn't end the way it did. I wished Kenneally gave us a bit more of Parker and her beau. So aside from that and how long it took to pick up, it was an enjoyable. I give this book a 4 stars.
I enjoyed the first book in this series. Although, I didn't love it. Something held me back. I'm glad more issues are brought up in this book. Sounds like a promising sequel!
ReplyDeleteIt was a good sequel. I enjoyed it. Maybe those first 100 pages wouldn't bother you. Some people see things differently.
DeleteVery honest review. Thanks so much for sharing. Would love to read both Catching Jordan & Stealing Parker.
ReplyDeleteJennifer @ Dream Reads
You absolutely should. They are both very raw books and the author doesn't hold back. You can relate to her characters.
DeleteI haven't read Catching Jordan yet and both these books sound great. This sequel sounds real promising to me and can't wait to read it. Thanks for the honest review!
ReplyDeleteWell I hope you do enjoy when you pick it up. This author reminds me of Kody Keplinger a bit. Have you read any of her books? They're very relatable. If that makes any sense.
Deleteawesome review ty for sharing sounds like an awesome book havent read catching jordan but i will have to check them out
ReplyDeleteCatching Jordan is def my favorite and you should totally check it out.
DeleteGreat review, I have been wanting to read more Contemporary reads and Catching Jordan and Stealing Parker both look to be great books to start with!!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a good story... glad you enjoyed it!
ReplyDeleteThis is the first time I heard of this series. Thanks for the introduction and your thoughts.
ReplyDelete