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Nets and Lies
Always awkward in her 5’10 frame, Melanie Reeves finds her saving grace through basketball. Not only is she the varsity team captain, she’s the pride of Coach Thompson, who holds the keys to a college scholarship. Melanie has also found 'courtly' love with Will, Coach T's handsome, ball-playing son. When Melanie is on the court, everything is perfect....until she is forced to face an opponent who doesn't play by the rules.
Jordan Solano's power lies in her beauty and sex appeal. Never afraid of breaking the rules, she engages in a scandalous flirtation with the school's married basketball coach. But the flirtation quickly turns into accusation, and Coach T's job and reputation are placed in jeopardy after Jordan charges him with rape. Jordan's own reputation has the school administration unwilling to believe her. That is, until she makes a startling claim - she's not the only victim.
Suddenly, all eyes are on Melanie, and it isn't for her amazing free-throws. A man's job, a girl's reputation, and her boyfriend's entire world now rest in Melanie's hands. She has to decide: keep her secrets and protect her future, or put an end to the lies...and lose everything.
*This book is New Adult and contains mature subject matter. TRIGGERS for rape survivors and sexual abuse victims***
Jordan Solano's power lies in her beauty and sex appeal. Never afraid of breaking the rules, she engages in a scandalous flirtation with the school's married basketball coach. But the flirtation quickly turns into accusation, and Coach T's job and reputation are placed in jeopardy after Jordan charges him with rape. Jordan's own reputation has the school administration unwilling to believe her. That is, until she makes a startling claim - she's not the only victim.
Suddenly, all eyes are on Melanie, and it isn't for her amazing free-throws. A man's job, a girl's reputation, and her boyfriend's entire world now rest in Melanie's hands. She has to decide: keep her secrets and protect her future, or put an end to the lies...and lose everything.
*This book is New Adult and contains mature subject matter. TRIGGERS for rape survivors and sexual abuse victims***
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 3, 2013
About the author
Katie Ashley
63 books8,979 followersKatie Ashley is a New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon Top Three Best-Selling author of both Indie and Traditionally published books. She's written rockers, bikers, manwhores with hearts of gold, New Adult, and Young Adult. She lives outside of Atlanta, Georgia with her daughter, Olivia, her rescue mutts, Belle and Elsa, and her two cats, Mama Kitty and Luna. She has a slight obsession with The Golden Girls, Shakespeare, Harry Potter, and Star Wars.
With a BA in English, a BS in Secondary English Education, and a Masters in Adolescent English Education, she spent eleven years teaching both middle and high school English, as well as a few adjunct college English classes. As of January 2013, she became a full-time writer.
Although she is a life-long Georgia peach, she loves traveling the country and world meeting readers. Most days, you can find her being a hermit, styling leggings, and binging on Netflix whenever her toddler daughter isn't monopolizing the TV with Paw Patrol or Frozen.
CONNECT WITH KATIE
➜ NEWSLETTER: http://bit.ly/2ljVosh
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/katie.ashleyromance
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (ASHLEY'S ANGELS): facebook.com/groups/ashleyangels
➜ WEBSITE: www.katieashleybooks.com
➜INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/katieashleyluv
➜ TWITTER: twitter.com/katieashleyluv
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/katieashleyluv
With a BA in English, a BS in Secondary English Education, and a Masters in Adolescent English Education, she spent eleven years teaching both middle and high school English, as well as a few adjunct college English classes. As of January 2013, she became a full-time writer.
Although she is a life-long Georgia peach, she loves traveling the country and world meeting readers. Most days, you can find her being a hermit, styling leggings, and binging on Netflix whenever her toddler daughter isn't monopolizing the TV with Paw Patrol or Frozen.
CONNECT WITH KATIE
➜ NEWSLETTER: http://bit.ly/2ljVosh
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/katie.ashleyromance
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (ASHLEY'S ANGELS): facebook.com/groups/ashleyangels
➜ WEBSITE: www.katieashleybooks.com
➜INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/katieashleyluv
➜ TWITTER: twitter.com/katieashleyluv
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/katieashleyluv
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews
February 17, 2013
Quick Review
SPOILER FREE REVIEW -mature content reader discretion is advised.
3.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: Mature-YA Romance
“Melanie, there’s more.”
I shifted nervously in my seat.
“More?” He nodded.
“Yes. Ms. Solano alleges there was another victim.”
“Who?”
Detective Pendley cocked his eyebrows.
“You.”
Melanie Reeves is an All Star on and off the court. She makes good grades in school, has a killer jump shot and is dating the school's golden boy. Will Thompson.
“I love you more than life itself. Nothing you say or do is gonna change that!” ~Will
Finding love with a fellow ball player is just the icing on the cake for her. Standing at 5'10 Melanie is the captain of her varsity basketball team and coach T's go to player.
Then we have Mel's opposite. Jordan Solano.
'People avoided me like a wadded up piece of bloody tissue— including my two ex best friends. Even to the extent that kids crossed the halls to get away from me. Like brushing up against me equaled social suicide.'
Jordan is a teenage vixen, sex is her game, she uses her body and sex to get what she wants. And what Jordan wants is Coach T. A married man, father of the schools golden boy and the coach to the girls varsity basketball team. Things go bad real fast when Jordan realizes she will not be getting what she wants from coach T. Anger causes her to act out. She accuses him of rape, but due to her promiscuous ways no one believes her. Jordan doesn't knuckle under.. Heads start to spin when she throws in her game changer... She's not the only victim. She claims that it happened to Melanie too...
“We’ve never had an accusation of this kind here at Newton. It’s unprecedented.” Mom rolled her eyes.
“That’s all well and good, but I want to know what you’re going to do to the son of a bitch?”
Jordan goes from being not liked to most hated after the rape accusations are made. Coach T is loved and respected by the community, rape is well out of reach for their minds to wrap around. Especially when it's being associated with him.
' I realized I had a new enemy— the teachers. Not that I’d ever been a teacher’s pet or a great admirer of them. No, I already had a top spot on their shit lists. But there was a different feeling in the air. I’d taken out one of their own, and hatred for me simmered underneath the surface.' ~Jordan
While Jordan is being ostracized publicly, Melanie denies the charge calling it crazy. She defends her coach and fights for his right to keep his job.
Lies spin completely out of control and when the truth is unleashed lives will be changed forever.
WARNING:*This book is New Adult and contains mature subject matter. TRIGGERS for rape survivors and sexual abuse victims***
My Thoughts
*Sighs heavily* This book was a very emotional read.. I had no idea how to rate it..I flipped back and forth for days.
I thought the writing was good, we get two pov's in this book. Melanie and Jordan's. Readers are able to experience first hand the impact the rape accusation plays in both girls lives.
I cried for Melanie. She had to make tough decisions that would effect so many lives. Decisions no one should ever have to make. On the flip side,I was very shocked by the transitions and changes Jordan went through after the rape accusation. I would have never predicted her life to take the path it did.
“Are you trying to tell me you want to become a nun? Because if you are, I’m taking you to the fucking hospital right now!”
“No, Mom, I don’t want to become a nun. But I do want to change, and school is part of that. I just think the best thing for me would be to go to an all girls’ school. Away from guys— including teachers.”
I remember reading this and thinking "finally, the girl is using her brains." Also, I like how Katie Ashley put in some spiritual aspects without getting preachy. I venture that to not be an easy task.
Bonus: At the end we get Will's pov and I loved it! I love when the author gives you a guys pov!
My Ratings
Characters- lovable
Writing Style- Good
Plot/Storyline- Intense and Raw
Steam Factor- Medium/Moderately Steamy
Overall- I liked it!
Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!
For more reviews got to http://realitybites-letsgetlost.blogs...
SPOILER FREE REVIEW -mature content reader discretion is advised.
3.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: Mature-YA Romance
“Melanie, there’s more.”
I shifted nervously in my seat.
“More?” He nodded.
“Yes. Ms. Solano alleges there was another victim.”
“Who?”
Detective Pendley cocked his eyebrows.
“You.”
Melanie Reeves is an All Star on and off the court. She makes good grades in school, has a killer jump shot and is dating the school's golden boy. Will Thompson.
“I love you more than life itself. Nothing you say or do is gonna change that!” ~Will
Finding love with a fellow ball player is just the icing on the cake for her. Standing at 5'10 Melanie is the captain of her varsity basketball team and coach T's go to player.
Then we have Mel's opposite. Jordan Solano.
'People avoided me like a wadded up piece of bloody tissue— including my two ex best friends. Even to the extent that kids crossed the halls to get away from me. Like brushing up against me equaled social suicide.'
Jordan is a teenage vixen, sex is her game, she uses her body and sex to get what she wants. And what Jordan wants is Coach T. A married man, father of the schools golden boy and the coach to the girls varsity basketball team. Things go bad real fast when Jordan realizes she will not be getting what she wants from coach T. Anger causes her to act out. She accuses him of rape, but due to her promiscuous ways no one believes her. Jordan doesn't knuckle under.. Heads start to spin when she throws in her game changer... She's not the only victim. She claims that it happened to Melanie too...
“We’ve never had an accusation of this kind here at Newton. It’s unprecedented.” Mom rolled her eyes.
“That’s all well and good, but I want to know what you’re going to do to the son of a bitch?”
Jordan goes from being not liked to most hated after the rape accusations are made. Coach T is loved and respected by the community, rape is well out of reach for their minds to wrap around. Especially when it's being associated with him.
' I realized I had a new enemy— the teachers. Not that I’d ever been a teacher’s pet or a great admirer of them. No, I already had a top spot on their shit lists. But there was a different feeling in the air. I’d taken out one of their own, and hatred for me simmered underneath the surface.' ~Jordan
While Jordan is being ostracized publicly, Melanie denies the charge calling it crazy. She defends her coach and fights for his right to keep his job.
Lies spin completely out of control and when the truth is unleashed lives will be changed forever.
WARNING:*This book is New Adult and contains mature subject matter. TRIGGERS for rape survivors and sexual abuse victims***
My Thoughts
*Sighs heavily* This book was a very emotional read.. I had no idea how to rate it..I flipped back and forth for days.
I thought the writing was good, we get two pov's in this book. Melanie and Jordan's. Readers are able to experience first hand the impact the rape accusation plays in both girls lives.
I cried for Melanie. She had to make tough decisions that would effect so many lives. Decisions no one should ever have to make. On the flip side,I was very shocked by the transitions and changes Jordan went through after the rape accusation. I would have never predicted her life to take the path it did.
“Are you trying to tell me you want to become a nun? Because if you are, I’m taking you to the fucking hospital right now!”
“No, Mom, I don’t want to become a nun. But I do want to change, and school is part of that. I just think the best thing for me would be to go to an all girls’ school. Away from guys— including teachers.”
I remember reading this and thinking "finally, the girl is using her brains." Also, I like how Katie Ashley put in some spiritual aspects without getting preachy. I venture that to not be an easy task.
Bonus: At the end we get Will's pov and I loved it! I love when the author gives you a guys pov!
My Ratings
Characters- lovable
Writing Style- Good
Plot/Storyline- Intense and Raw
Steam Factor- Medium/Moderately Steamy
Overall- I liked it!
Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!
For more reviews got to http://realitybites-letsgetlost.blogs...
February 7, 2013
This is a story about two girls in high school who couldn’t be more different.
Melanie is a good student, a star basketball player, perfect daughter and girlfriend of the sweet and popular Will. She is overall a sweet an likable girl.
Jordan is the opposite. She finds her self getting in trouble more often than not, her home life isn’t stellar and to top it off, she is seeing a married man. This man happens to be Melanie’s basketball coach and Will’s father.
Jordan thinks she loves Coach T. Then one day, he doesn't want anything to do with her. That just happens to be the same day she sees Mel coming out of the Coach’s office upset. She assumes Melanie is sleeping with him also. Jordan wants to ruin Coach T. She claims he raped her, even though their relationship was consensual. Jordan doesn’t know what really happened with Coach T and Melanie that day. When she finds out, she feels terrible.
Melanie had been dating Will for a while, she was almost ready to take that next big step with him. But his father, Coach T, ruins everything one day when they are left alone after practice and he forces himself on her. What happens to Melanie is terrible. She feels like she has to lie about it. If the truth came out, it would ruin everything. Most importantly, if the truth came out, it would hurt the one person she loves the most. Will. But eventually, Melanie breaks. She can’t continue living a lie.
These two girls go through different situations dealing with the same man. Both of there situations are intense and traumatic. They handle things very differently, but with help, they both get through it. Melanie has her parents and siblings to support her, but most importantly, Will. I can’t imagine how all this effected him, but when Melanie breaks down, he is there for her. Will is the best boyfriend! It takes her a lot of time to start to heal, and Will is there for her every step of the way.
Although Jordan didn’t have any of her friends support and her mom was a flake, she had Nick. When she met Nick, he helped her see she was worthy and deserved better.
“Sometimes, the shit we go through does have a purpose. If we’re truly honest with ourselves, we can use that purpose to change our life for the better, not the worse.”
We got both Jordan and Melanie’s p.o.v throughout the story. I love dual p.o.v... its great to see both sides of the story. I really loved Mel from the start, and Jordan really grew on me as the story went on. I loved that the girls were able to come together and be there for each other. And the epilogue we got Will’s p.o.v.- which I loved. The subject matter was difficult, but I still really enjoyed the story and the characters. Especially those boys! Will and Nick- absolutely loved them! Their stories were heartbreaking at times, Melanie’s especially, but the ending left you with a smile on your face.
The tragic aspect of our past would always bond us together, but it was the strong love we had that meant the most.
I loved Katie Ashley’s other books (The Proposition and The Proposal), but this one is much different. Not only can Katie write romance, she can write about emotional topics. Some heavy topics, but a great read!
Melanie is a good student, a star basketball player, perfect daughter and girlfriend of the sweet and popular Will. She is overall a sweet an likable girl.
Jordan is the opposite. She finds her self getting in trouble more often than not, her home life isn’t stellar and to top it off, she is seeing a married man. This man happens to be Melanie’s basketball coach and Will’s father.
Jordan thinks she loves Coach T. Then one day, he doesn't want anything to do with her. That just happens to be the same day she sees Mel coming out of the Coach’s office upset. She assumes Melanie is sleeping with him also. Jordan wants to ruin Coach T. She claims he raped her, even though their relationship was consensual. Jordan doesn’t know what really happened with Coach T and Melanie that day. When she finds out, she feels terrible.
Melanie had been dating Will for a while, she was almost ready to take that next big step with him. But his father, Coach T, ruins everything one day when they are left alone after practice and he forces himself on her. What happens to Melanie is terrible. She feels like she has to lie about it. If the truth came out, it would ruin everything. Most importantly, if the truth came out, it would hurt the one person she loves the most. Will. But eventually, Melanie breaks. She can’t continue living a lie.
These two girls go through different situations dealing with the same man. Both of there situations are intense and traumatic. They handle things very differently, but with help, they both get through it. Melanie has her parents and siblings to support her, but most importantly, Will. I can’t imagine how all this effected him, but when Melanie breaks down, he is there for her. Will is the best boyfriend! It takes her a lot of time to start to heal, and Will is there for her every step of the way.
Although Jordan didn’t have any of her friends support and her mom was a flake, she had Nick. When she met Nick, he helped her see she was worthy and deserved better.
“Sometimes, the shit we go through does have a purpose. If we’re truly honest with ourselves, we can use that purpose to change our life for the better, not the worse.”
We got both Jordan and Melanie’s p.o.v throughout the story. I love dual p.o.v... its great to see both sides of the story. I really loved Mel from the start, and Jordan really grew on me as the story went on. I loved that the girls were able to come together and be there for each other. And the epilogue we got Will’s p.o.v.- which I loved. The subject matter was difficult, but I still really enjoyed the story and the characters. Especially those boys! Will and Nick- absolutely loved them! Their stories were heartbreaking at times, Melanie’s especially, but the ending left you with a smile on your face.
The tragic aspect of our past would always bond us together, but it was the strong love we had that meant the most.
I loved Katie Ashley’s other books (The Proposition and The Proposal), but this one is much different. Not only can Katie write romance, she can write about emotional topics. Some heavy topics, but a great read!
February 4, 2013
“Then I detached. I floated above myself, spiriting away from the pain that rippled through me. It stunned me and paralyzed me. Faintly, I could hear the roar of the crowd in my ears, and the rubber smell of the basketball filled my nostrils.”
What happens when lies and the truth start blending together? Will the fear of the consequences outweigh what is morally right and justified? Do you begin to consider the ramifications of every action you make from this point forward and its effect on not just yourself but on others as well? How do you move forward when you have been violated (body, heart, and soul) by the one person you should be able to trust? Nets and Lies is a journey of two girls, who could not be any more different from each other, and how their lives have become impacted by tragedy and the actions of jealousy.
“I choked off a sob. He wasn’t even sorry that’d he…raped me.”
Melanie and Jordan’s journey was emotional and intense. Melanie had it all. She was “Miss Perfect” and Jordan, well Jordan, was broken in all senses of the word. Sex was her form of love. Our girl from the “wrong side of the tracks” was as far from being “Miss Perfect” as you could get. Each girl had her struggle and her own reason for the lie that was told. One out of jealousy, the other out of fear for the lives it would destroy around her. Both however, told them out of protection. There was a strong need to protect the heart, to protect those you love and even to protect the one who wrecked your world.
Melanie finally breaks under the pressure of trying to hide the vileness that happened to her. The lies she told for protection began to surface resulting in the truth being revealed. Mel can no longer go on pretending the violation never happened while also justifying her reasons for protecting her assailant. Her body and mind were no longer able to hold themselves together. Melanie struggled with pretend strength and courage, convincing herself she was doing the right thing. All of this turmoil and angst ends up pulling her under and causing a mental break down. My heart broke even more for her as I watched Melanie's struggle to grip her reality in a new light. Her life and her relationships are no longer the same. Katie grabbed my heart and held on tight through Melanie’s recovery. I could barely read the words through my tears.
Jordan spoke to me. I was not as emotional over her, well I guess I cannot really say that because I was, just not in the same sense. She hit to close to home for me. Her character became a personal reflection. I immediately connected with her. When a person comes from a broken home you tend to understand the characters who appear broken or feel as though they are not worthy of anyone's love and attention. Their behaviors and actions while to others may seem extremely stupid or just plain morally wrong always have some underlying meaning behind them. These characters grip me the most. Their struggles and their success mean more. It is not an easy road to travel when you have lived a life like this. Your journey is harder and longer. The circle is even harder to break, and when you do, your success becomes that much more meaningful. I loved Katie's character development of Jordan. I empathized with Jordan, allowing me to connect on a deeper level with her character, while I was only able to sympathize with Melanie.
"Sometimes the shit we go through does have a purpose. If we're truly honest with ourselves, we can use that purpose to change our life for the better, not the worse."
The ending was written to perfection, in my humble opinion. I could not have been any happier with the way things came together for our heroines. I adored seeing Melanie and Jordan learn to understand and show compassion towards each other and their own personal choices. No grudges held, even the possibilities of a friendship. In the end, they stood together and made the right decisions. Katie also gave a great sense of completion and happiness within the characters and their relationships that formed throughout the book. The story is heart wrenching, it is emotionally intense, and it can be an uncomfortable read at some parts. With that being said, it is totally worth it.
Katie Ashley is a FREAKING GENIUS! I have been in an awful book funk and this book blew my socks off with its angst and its emotional intensity. I devoured every single word as though it was the last. Katie showed me with Net & Lies, she not only can write fun, steamy, romances but also books with deep emotional tough topics. I was able to feel a wide range of emotions, some even pushed me a bit out of my comfort zone. I stayed connected and invested through the entire story.
Thank you so much Katie for the opportunity to experience Melanie and Jordan. I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
What happens when lies and the truth start blending together? Will the fear of the consequences outweigh what is morally right and justified? Do you begin to consider the ramifications of every action you make from this point forward and its effect on not just yourself but on others as well? How do you move forward when you have been violated (body, heart, and soul) by the one person you should be able to trust? Nets and Lies is a journey of two girls, who could not be any more different from each other, and how their lives have become impacted by tragedy and the actions of jealousy.
“I choked off a sob. He wasn’t even sorry that’d he…raped me.”
Melanie and Jordan’s journey was emotional and intense. Melanie had it all. She was “Miss Perfect” and Jordan, well Jordan, was broken in all senses of the word. Sex was her form of love. Our girl from the “wrong side of the tracks” was as far from being “Miss Perfect” as you could get. Each girl had her struggle and her own reason for the lie that was told. One out of jealousy, the other out of fear for the lives it would destroy around her. Both however, told them out of protection. There was a strong need to protect the heart, to protect those you love and even to protect the one who wrecked your world.
Melanie finally breaks under the pressure of trying to hide the vileness that happened to her. The lies she told for protection began to surface resulting in the truth being revealed. Mel can no longer go on pretending the violation never happened while also justifying her reasons for protecting her assailant. Her body and mind were no longer able to hold themselves together. Melanie struggled with pretend strength and courage, convincing herself she was doing the right thing. All of this turmoil and angst ends up pulling her under and causing a mental break down. My heart broke even more for her as I watched Melanie's struggle to grip her reality in a new light. Her life and her relationships are no longer the same. Katie grabbed my heart and held on tight through Melanie’s recovery. I could barely read the words through my tears.
Jordan spoke to me. I was not as emotional over her, well I guess I cannot really say that because I was, just not in the same sense. She hit to close to home for me. Her character became a personal reflection. I immediately connected with her. When a person comes from a broken home you tend to understand the characters who appear broken or feel as though they are not worthy of anyone's love and attention. Their behaviors and actions while to others may seem extremely stupid or just plain morally wrong always have some underlying meaning behind them. These characters grip me the most. Their struggles and their success mean more. It is not an easy road to travel when you have lived a life like this. Your journey is harder and longer. The circle is even harder to break, and when you do, your success becomes that much more meaningful. I loved Katie's character development of Jordan. I empathized with Jordan, allowing me to connect on a deeper level with her character, while I was only able to sympathize with Melanie.
"Sometimes the shit we go through does have a purpose. If we're truly honest with ourselves, we can use that purpose to change our life for the better, not the worse."
The ending was written to perfection, in my humble opinion. I could not have been any happier with the way things came together for our heroines. I adored seeing Melanie and Jordan learn to understand and show compassion towards each other and their own personal choices. No grudges held, even the possibilities of a friendship. In the end, they stood together and made the right decisions. Katie also gave a great sense of completion and happiness within the characters and their relationships that formed throughout the book. The story is heart wrenching, it is emotionally intense, and it can be an uncomfortable read at some parts. With that being said, it is totally worth it.
Katie Ashley is a FREAKING GENIUS! I have been in an awful book funk and this book blew my socks off with its angst and its emotional intensity. I devoured every single word as though it was the last. Katie showed me with Net & Lies, she not only can write fun, steamy, romances but also books with deep emotional tough topics. I was able to feel a wide range of emotions, some even pushed me a bit out of my comfort zone. I stayed connected and invested through the entire story.
Thank you so much Katie for the opportunity to experience Melanie and Jordan. I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
February 5, 2013
*I received this book from the author for an honest review.*
I think I love this woman a little more with each new book I read. Katie Ashley is easily becoming one of my favorite authors. In this book her writing flows naturally and flawless as usual. This book is practically on the opposite end of the spectrum as to the subject matters that Katie Ashley normally writes about; however, it's quite a unique little gem and I really enjoyed it.
The book follows the lives of two high school girls, who couldn't be more opposite, through a dual POV. This book's main focus is their relationship with the girl's high school basketball coach. Fairly early in the book Jordan accuses the coach of rape and is turned into a social outcast overnight by her peers who refuse to believe her accusations due to the upstanding reputation of the coach and her less than stellar reputation. It isn't until rumors fly that Melanie is also a victim that people begin to waiver. Melanie is in a tough spot, she loves her coach and is the long-time girlfriend of his son. She struggles with telling the truth and risking the hearts of all those she loves or living a lie to keep the lives of those close to her unchanged.
I thought the writing was spot on with the emotions of each girl. I could understand their feelings and relate to them (Melanie more so than Jordan). I'll admit I've kind of been in a book rut, but this book was able to pull me out and I was intrigued from the beginning and found myself unable to put this book down as the story unfolded and secrets were revealed. All in all, great book!
I think I love this woman a little more with each new book I read. Katie Ashley is easily becoming one of my favorite authors. In this book her writing flows naturally and flawless as usual. This book is practically on the opposite end of the spectrum as to the subject matters that Katie Ashley normally writes about; however, it's quite a unique little gem and I really enjoyed it.
The book follows the lives of two high school girls, who couldn't be more opposite, through a dual POV. This book's main focus is their relationship with the girl's high school basketball coach. Fairly early in the book Jordan accuses the coach of rape and is turned into a social outcast overnight by her peers who refuse to believe her accusations due to the upstanding reputation of the coach and her less than stellar reputation. It isn't until rumors fly that Melanie is also a victim that people begin to waiver. Melanie is in a tough spot, she loves her coach and is the long-time girlfriend of his son. She struggles with telling the truth and risking the hearts of all those she loves or living a lie to keep the lives of those close to her unchanged.
I thought the writing was spot on with the emotions of each girl. I could understand their feelings and relate to them (Melanie more so than Jordan). I'll admit I've kind of been in a book rut, but this book was able to pull me out and I was intrigued from the beginning and found myself unable to put this book down as the story unfolded and secrets were revealed. All in all, great book!
February 1, 2013
I received a copy of this from Katie in return for an honest review :
Katie told me that she wrote this book based of a rape scandal that had happened in an area she use to live in . I don’t know any more details then that . So with that said here is my input on this story .
Always awkward in her 5’10 frame, Melanie Reeves finds her saving grace through basketball. Not only is she the varsity team captain, she’s the pride of Coach Thompson, who holds the keys to a college scholarship. Melanie has also found 'courtly' love with Will, Coach T's handsome, ball-playing son. When Melanie is on the court, everything is perfect....until she is forced to face an opponent who doesn't play by the rules.
Jordan Solano's power lies in her beauty and sex appeal. Never afraid of breaking the rules, she engages in a scandalous flirtation with the school's married basketball coach. But the flirtation quickly turns into accusation, and Coach T's job and reputation are placed in jeopardy after Jordan charges him with rape. Jordan's own reputation has the school administration unwilling to believe her. That is, until she makes a startling claim - she's not the only victim.
Suddenly, all eyes are on Melanie, and it isn't for her amazing free-throws. A man's job, a girl's reputation, and her boyfriend's entire world now rest in Melanie's hands. She has to decide: keep her secrets and protect her future, or put an end to the lies...and lose everything.
This is a story of heartache , sex abuse, and the story of a girl who was raped . Melanie was the captain of her basketball team , she was friends with everyone in school , her team mates all looked up to her . Her coach was the best coach in the world in her eyes and he was also her boyfriends father . She was living the life and the dreams of all girls her age at 17 yrs old . Then one day her life was shattered when her coach that she looked up to did the un thinkable and raped her .
Jordan , known as the school slut to most, always in trouble , would sleep with any guy for sex and never had a true “ relationship “ with any man .. She had been having an Affair with Coach Thompson for months . One night this all changed , When going to meet Coach Thompson for their normal Monday night hook up , she see’s Melanie come out of the school a mess, Messy hair, Makeup smudged , Melanie gets in her car and leaves . Jordan gets the signal from coach that all is clear to come in . When she goes in she finds coach sitting with his head in his hands . He proceeds to tell her that they can’t do this no more , it was a mistake , he needs to stop the affair . She tells him she loves him . Jordan instantly thinks he is seeing someone else . Then she finds Melanies Panties in his futon , She starts yelling your sleeping with Melanie , he denies this . She tells him she will go to the principal and ruin him . it All goes down from their for Jordan .
Coach Thompson respected by all in the school and the athletic team , father, husband. He does the unthinkable one night and rapes his son’s girlfriend , the captain of his Basketball team Melanie . After he does he tells her he is sorry , he don’t know what got into him . tells her she better not tell anyone , etc , It will ruin Will her boyfriend, her team , no one will believe her .
Things spiral outta control from there . Jordan goes home and tells her mom what happened with coach , her mom gets her to concoct a story that the coach raped her and to make him pay for what he did to her .. After facing the principal and everyone at school who do not believe her Jordan does the unthinkable , she tells the principal and everyone else that she was not the only one and tells them that Melanie was a victim of coach’s also . Even though she has no clue that Melanie truly was a victim too .
Jordan is now faced with everyone hating her, telling her she is a lying whore , she goes into the bathroom at school and in there she finds Melanie , after talking to Melanie and discovering that Melanie truly was raped . Jordan is sorry she ever opened her mouth and said she was, but wants her to tell the truth … Jordan ends up leaving school and being enrolled in a new school .
After Melanie gets home she starts one lie after another . and does not tell anyone . including her Boyfriend Will . Until she has A Break down a week later and she confesses to Will that she was raped and that his father was the one who did it .
I don’t want to give it all away for readers . So I will say this Jordan works on getting her act together after she meets a guy named Nick at work . I think Jordan working on redeeming herself was a Big step for her . and I love where the book ended with her .
Coach Thompson , well he gets what is coming to him , I think readers will like the outcome as far as he is concerned .
Melanie starts to heal , with her families help , Will who is amazing and NEVER leaves her side , and her Therapist . this is an amazing girl and I truly believe she will heal from what happened to her .
Katie Thank you for the chance to read this book . I hope that others will enjoy this book even though it touches on a tough subject .
Katie told me that she wrote this book based of a rape scandal that had happened in an area she use to live in . I don’t know any more details then that . So with that said here is my input on this story .
Always awkward in her 5’10 frame, Melanie Reeves finds her saving grace through basketball. Not only is she the varsity team captain, she’s the pride of Coach Thompson, who holds the keys to a college scholarship. Melanie has also found 'courtly' love with Will, Coach T's handsome, ball-playing son. When Melanie is on the court, everything is perfect....until she is forced to face an opponent who doesn't play by the rules.
Jordan Solano's power lies in her beauty and sex appeal. Never afraid of breaking the rules, she engages in a scandalous flirtation with the school's married basketball coach. But the flirtation quickly turns into accusation, and Coach T's job and reputation are placed in jeopardy after Jordan charges him with rape. Jordan's own reputation has the school administration unwilling to believe her. That is, until she makes a startling claim - she's not the only victim.
Suddenly, all eyes are on Melanie, and it isn't for her amazing free-throws. A man's job, a girl's reputation, and her boyfriend's entire world now rest in Melanie's hands. She has to decide: keep her secrets and protect her future, or put an end to the lies...and lose everything.
This is a story of heartache , sex abuse, and the story of a girl who was raped . Melanie was the captain of her basketball team , she was friends with everyone in school , her team mates all looked up to her . Her coach was the best coach in the world in her eyes and he was also her boyfriends father . She was living the life and the dreams of all girls her age at 17 yrs old . Then one day her life was shattered when her coach that she looked up to did the un thinkable and raped her .
Jordan , known as the school slut to most, always in trouble , would sleep with any guy for sex and never had a true “ relationship “ with any man .. She had been having an Affair with Coach Thompson for months . One night this all changed , When going to meet Coach Thompson for their normal Monday night hook up , she see’s Melanie come out of the school a mess, Messy hair, Makeup smudged , Melanie gets in her car and leaves . Jordan gets the signal from coach that all is clear to come in . When she goes in she finds coach sitting with his head in his hands . He proceeds to tell her that they can’t do this no more , it was a mistake , he needs to stop the affair . She tells him she loves him . Jordan instantly thinks he is seeing someone else . Then she finds Melanies Panties in his futon , She starts yelling your sleeping with Melanie , he denies this . She tells him she will go to the principal and ruin him . it All goes down from their for Jordan .
Coach Thompson respected by all in the school and the athletic team , father, husband. He does the unthinkable one night and rapes his son’s girlfriend , the captain of his Basketball team Melanie . After he does he tells her he is sorry , he don’t know what got into him . tells her she better not tell anyone , etc , It will ruin Will her boyfriend, her team , no one will believe her .
Things spiral outta control from there . Jordan goes home and tells her mom what happened with coach , her mom gets her to concoct a story that the coach raped her and to make him pay for what he did to her .. After facing the principal and everyone at school who do not believe her Jordan does the unthinkable , she tells the principal and everyone else that she was not the only one and tells them that Melanie was a victim of coach’s also . Even though she has no clue that Melanie truly was a victim too .
Jordan is now faced with everyone hating her, telling her she is a lying whore , she goes into the bathroom at school and in there she finds Melanie , after talking to Melanie and discovering that Melanie truly was raped . Jordan is sorry she ever opened her mouth and said she was, but wants her to tell the truth … Jordan ends up leaving school and being enrolled in a new school .
After Melanie gets home she starts one lie after another . and does not tell anyone . including her Boyfriend Will . Until she has A Break down a week later and she confesses to Will that she was raped and that his father was the one who did it .
I don’t want to give it all away for readers . So I will say this Jordan works on getting her act together after she meets a guy named Nick at work . I think Jordan working on redeeming herself was a Big step for her . and I love where the book ended with her .
Coach Thompson , well he gets what is coming to him , I think readers will like the outcome as far as he is concerned .
Melanie starts to heal , with her families help , Will who is amazing and NEVER leaves her side , and her Therapist . this is an amazing girl and I truly believe she will heal from what happened to her .
Katie Thank you for the chance to read this book . I hope that others will enjoy this book even though it touches on a tough subject .
February 4, 2013
This is the story of two high school girls who could not be more different...
Melanie: Girl next door, basketball Captain and star, well loved, good student, sweet girlfriend, and perfect daughter...
Jordan: Rule breaker, poor student, always in trouble, misguided in her affections, flirt, uses sex to get what she wants, and is used to being treated poorly by boyfriends...
But their life paths diverge due to one person....Coach T...He coaches the girl's basketball team and he is the father of Melanie's boyfriend, Will.
It is the story of inappropriate relations, secrets, lies and cover ups. And the repercussions and fall out from what information is told and what information is not.
Is it better to lie to to keep someone out of trouble than to get someone in trouble? Can you lie and keep a secret without it coming back to haunt you? Does it make a lie okay if it might help someone else later on? Is it okay to lie to protect someone you care about even at your own expense?
As I started down the blue and white tiled hallway, it became a low rumble--ominous and dark like a storm brewing on the horizon. I glanced at the faces around me, my heart thudding to a stop. The usual goofy grins and wide-eyes of gossipers had been replaced by masks of shock and horror...And then I knew. The masks of horror were for me.
In less than a week, everything I held dear had been stripped from me.
It is about struggling to come to terms with events that cannot be changed. And two girls finding their inner strength, trying to rebuild trust and move forward in their lives. I loved the changes in both Melanie and Jordan. Despite having to deal with horrible situations, they were able to find themselves and find their own way out of the darkness. I was truly invested in their individual journeys and self discovery in the aftermath of traumatic events. They had such a hard time and suffered, but found courage and inner strength to face the future. It is also a story of finding real love, support, and the importance of honesty and trust in a relationship.
"Sometimes the shit we go through does have a purpose. If we're truly honest with ourselves, we can use that purpose to change our life for the better, not the worse."
I liked that we got both Melanie and Jordan's POV and could really feel what they were each going through good and bad. And I love the fact that she gave us a taste of Will's POV. I really liked Will and Nick and felt that they rounded out the story perfectly and were strong male influences.
Nets and Lies is a heart breaking story of broken trust, secrets, acceptance, honesty, healing, love, and redemption. But you are not left feeling broken once you finish reading it, you are felt empowered and with a sense of hope.
Thanks to Katie Ashley for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.Expected release date February 4, 2013.
This review will be posted on Reviews by Tammy and Kim.
February 7, 2013
There are books that leave you uncertain of your feelings about them. This one is the opposite.
SPOILER ALERT! - Because I just can't write a review without spoilers, haha!
Anger
First, the topic itself was a definite hot button. Rape, for me, is the ultimate evil (murder aside, of course). You just don't violate someone when you rape him/her, you destroy his/her dreams, you strip his/her sense of self (self-respect and self-confidence to name a few), and most especially, you betray their deep rooted belief in the goodness of humanity. So, it's safe to say that rapists are the lowest of the lowest scum, and Coach T is one of those. When he said that , I was like, "WTF?! REALLY?! WTF?! YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE! YOU SHOULD BE CASTRATED AND FED TO THE WOLVES!"
Frustration
What Melanie did after the rape? That was dshafsafkjhafhaiufhiehefiushfiuewihewfhiuh. Yes, I deeply felt unexplainable feelings of frustration. Someone once told me that you will never know how you will react and what you will do unless you're already in that particular situation. But still, I'd like to think that if ever I was raped (though, God forbid), I wouldn't have done what Melanie did. Until now, I just couldn't condone that she even that effing asshole. She may have seemed selfless, but for me she was just in deep, ocean deep, deep denial. It was no wonder that she had a breakdown after a week. If you bottle it all up inside, there will come a day that it will all explode, and believe me, it will not be pretty.
Elation
Jordan, oh Jordan. I think you deserve all the names thrown at you - liar, slut, whore, bitch - because you are exactly those. But just like anyone who had hit rock bottom, you turned it all around, and for that I am extremely glad for you, my dear. :)
And of course, Melanie and Will. The ending with the sunrise breaking through the dark clouds was the exact metaphor of how the both of them struggled and emerged victorious amidst the trials that they encountered. No one deserves a happy ending more than you Melanie.
Overall thoughts - this was not a romance novel. Yes, there were romantic parts, but this was a story of obstacles and triumphs by two very different girls who are survivors in their own ways.
SPOILER ALERT! - Because I just can't write a review without spoilers, haha!
Anger
First, the topic itself was a definite hot button. Rape, for me, is the ultimate evil (murder aside, of course). You just don't violate someone when you rape him/her, you destroy his/her dreams, you strip his/her sense of self (self-respect and self-confidence to name a few), and most especially, you betray their deep rooted belief in the goodness of humanity. So, it's safe to say that rapists are the lowest of the lowest scum, and Coach T is one of those. When he said that , I was like, "WTF?! REALLY?! WTF?! YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE! YOU SHOULD BE CASTRATED AND FED TO THE WOLVES!"
Frustration
What Melanie did after the rape? That was dshafsafkjhafhaiufhiehefiushfiuewihewfhiuh. Yes, I deeply felt unexplainable feelings of frustration. Someone once told me that you will never know how you will react and what you will do unless you're already in that particular situation. But still, I'd like to think that if ever I was raped (though, God forbid), I wouldn't have done what Melanie did. Until now, I just couldn't condone that she even that effing asshole. She may have seemed selfless, but for me she was just in deep, ocean deep, deep denial. It was no wonder that she had a breakdown after a week. If you bottle it all up inside, there will come a day that it will all explode, and believe me, it will not be pretty.
Elation
Jordan, oh Jordan. I think you deserve all the names thrown at you - liar, slut, whore, bitch - because you are exactly those. But just like anyone who had hit rock bottom, you turned it all around, and for that I am extremely glad for you, my dear. :)
And of course, Melanie and Will. The ending with the sunrise breaking through the dark clouds was the exact metaphor of how the both of them struggled and emerged victorious amidst the trials that they encountered. No one deserves a happy ending more than you Melanie.
Overall thoughts - this was not a romance novel. Yes, there were romantic parts, but this was a story of obstacles and triumphs by two very different girls who are survivors in their own ways.
February 6, 2013
OMG, what a story...a very hard subject to write about and so delicately handled...can't believe the Coach especially because of the relationship with his son..just makes it so much more vengeful and nasty..glad that Jordan redeemed herself in the end...and so happy for Will and Melanie...their road will be a hard one but their love for each other should get them through it...at least I hope so...maybe there could be more to their story..I hope so, would love to see how their life pans out in the future, the epilogue was not enough :-( fab fab story well done Katie Ashley.
June 25, 2013
Jointly reviewed for http://totallybookedblog.com/
Jenny: 4.5 stars
Gitte: 4.5 stars
Jenny: Every now and then you pick up a book, start reading it, anticipate something bad is going to happen and immediately get the urge to skip to the end. Not because you’re not enjoying it, but because your stomach is in knots and you need to know the characters you’re invested have survived their ordeal relatively unscathed. Such were my feelings whilst reading Nets & Lies.
I started this book and couldn’t put it down. I got to a point of no return, emotions were high and I was anxious to finish it because I needed to know how it all turned out. I finished it in one sitting. How about you Gitte?
Gitte: Yes, I have to say I found this story to be absolutely gripping. I read it in one sitting as well Jenny with my heart in my throat and the tears ready to fall. I was sucked into the story from the get go wanting to know it was all going to be okay. It was a story of sexual abuse, emotional trauma, surviving and overcoming personal suffering.
Jenny: Nets & Lies is the heartrending story of two girls whose lives are changed after a tragic event and is told through alternating POV’s from two people who couldn’t be more different. Melanie, who is sweet, in love with the gorgeous Will, is varsity team captain and she always plays by the rules. Melanie and Will are devoted to one another and have a future mapped out together.
Then we have Jordan, the polar opposite of Melanie. These two girls are night and day. Jordan uses her sexuality, breaks all the rules and is sexually active with Coach T, a married older man.
After a traumatic event, one chooses to keep a gut wrenching secret, one makes a claim that could ruin the reputation and livelihood of a well-respected and loved Coach.
For me, hearing from both Melanie and Jordan via the alternating POV’s allowed me to feel first hand the depth of the emotion and pain they were both experiencing. Although both situations were different you couldn’t help but empathize with both, though it was Melanie who absolutely broke my heart. What this girl went through crushed me and the aftermath was devastating, she dealt in the best way she knew how.
Gitte: Yes, the two girls sure where from extreme ends of the scale, yet I felt for them both for different reasons as the story progressed and we got to hear more of their individual voices.
Mel was a sweet dedicated and diligent young woman. She knew what she wanted out of life and planned it accordingly and she was honest and good to the core. Jordan was her polar opposite in the sense that lying, cheating and sleeping around where a means to an end despite the consequences of her actions.
Both get caught up in a horrific event that changes their paths; their lives forever.
For Mel this changes everything; her path in life; changes her personally; her relationship with her boyfriend Will. Deception? Lies? Or the Truth? Each comes with a price and the loss of normalcy and love.
For Jordan, in life, what comes easy through lies, dis-honesty and deception turns her hand and her path deviates to one of redemption and forgiveness. This girl was a victim too in her own right and has a mountain to climb with the surprising guidance of a chance encounter.
Jenny: This book was such a different read and I felt the subject matter was handled really well. You really felt the despair and emotion first hand right along with Mel. I have to say thought, that I also felt so much for Will in this story. He had to cope with so much on his young shoulders and under the circumstances, what a tower of strength he was for Melanie. Will showed loyalty and devotion well beyond his years and my heart went out to him because at the same time he had his own conflict to deal with.
The two relationships in this book, one developing, one dealing, were told so well through both girls eyes, two very different people, each with a heartbreaking story to tell.
“you fuck up your life. It’s what you do to change it”
Gitte: Absolutely Jenny, it was a very different story and I agree; the Author handled the sensitivity of the subject matter really well with her excellent writing. As I said my heart hurt and the tears threatened throughout the whole story.
Now despite the Author making this story primarily Mel’s and Jordan, I really felt for Will. His world was rocked too and I felt that despite him being in the crux of the traumatic event through no fault or involvement of his own, his healing; his own personal and emotional tragedy was somehow only touched upon. Therefore once I read the epilogue and heard his voice I felt he was truly given the justice he deserved. Will is mature beyond his years and his strength immeasurable. This guy’s whole life was put in jeopardy yet he was so strong and loyal and I honestly thought Will was pretty amazing and he dealt tremendously with the hand he was given.
So yes, this was a really well written emotional story and it had some poignant messages in it. In the end I felt satisfied that everyone got their salvation; their redemption, the happiness they deserved. I needed to know they were going to be okay and continued to overcome the obstacles and hurdles this traumatic event brought into their lives.
Jenny: This was indeed a heart wrenching story and there were definitely tears. It’s a hard subject matter to deal with but I felt the author did a very good job of relaying the despair, loneliness and guilt Melanie and Jordan were feeling and handled the subject delicately. This is a story of dealing and moving on, about claiming your life back and never ever letting anyone have the power to destroy your life. I had become so invested in these characters, I had to know how they fared. I wanted to know how these life changing, tragic events had shaped them. I wanted to know if they were happy, if they received closure. In the end, like you Gitte, I was satisfied.
“I’m not that person anymore……and neither are you. We’re human, we make mistakes”
Arc supplied by the author for an honest review
Jenny: 4.5 stars
Gitte: 4.5 stars
Jenny: Every now and then you pick up a book, start reading it, anticipate something bad is going to happen and immediately get the urge to skip to the end. Not because you’re not enjoying it, but because your stomach is in knots and you need to know the characters you’re invested have survived their ordeal relatively unscathed. Such were my feelings whilst reading Nets & Lies.
I started this book and couldn’t put it down. I got to a point of no return, emotions were high and I was anxious to finish it because I needed to know how it all turned out. I finished it in one sitting. How about you Gitte?
Gitte: Yes, I have to say I found this story to be absolutely gripping. I read it in one sitting as well Jenny with my heart in my throat and the tears ready to fall. I was sucked into the story from the get go wanting to know it was all going to be okay. It was a story of sexual abuse, emotional trauma, surviving and overcoming personal suffering.
Jenny: Nets & Lies is the heartrending story of two girls whose lives are changed after a tragic event and is told through alternating POV’s from two people who couldn’t be more different. Melanie, who is sweet, in love with the gorgeous Will, is varsity team captain and she always plays by the rules. Melanie and Will are devoted to one another and have a future mapped out together.
Then we have Jordan, the polar opposite of Melanie. These two girls are night and day. Jordan uses her sexuality, breaks all the rules and is sexually active with Coach T, a married older man.
After a traumatic event, one chooses to keep a gut wrenching secret, one makes a claim that could ruin the reputation and livelihood of a well-respected and loved Coach.
For me, hearing from both Melanie and Jordan via the alternating POV’s allowed me to feel first hand the depth of the emotion and pain they were both experiencing. Although both situations were different you couldn’t help but empathize with both, though it was Melanie who absolutely broke my heart. What this girl went through crushed me and the aftermath was devastating, she dealt in the best way she knew how.
Gitte: Yes, the two girls sure where from extreme ends of the scale, yet I felt for them both for different reasons as the story progressed and we got to hear more of their individual voices.
Mel was a sweet dedicated and diligent young woman. She knew what she wanted out of life and planned it accordingly and she was honest and good to the core. Jordan was her polar opposite in the sense that lying, cheating and sleeping around where a means to an end despite the consequences of her actions.
Both get caught up in a horrific event that changes their paths; their lives forever.
For Mel this changes everything; her path in life; changes her personally; her relationship with her boyfriend Will. Deception? Lies? Or the Truth? Each comes with a price and the loss of normalcy and love.
For Jordan, in life, what comes easy through lies, dis-honesty and deception turns her hand and her path deviates to one of redemption and forgiveness. This girl was a victim too in her own right and has a mountain to climb with the surprising guidance of a chance encounter.
Jenny: This book was such a different read and I felt the subject matter was handled really well. You really felt the despair and emotion first hand right along with Mel. I have to say thought, that I also felt so much for Will in this story. He had to cope with so much on his young shoulders and under the circumstances, what a tower of strength he was for Melanie. Will showed loyalty and devotion well beyond his years and my heart went out to him because at the same time he had his own conflict to deal with.
The two relationships in this book, one developing, one dealing, were told so well through both girls eyes, two very different people, each with a heartbreaking story to tell.
“you fuck up your life. It’s what you do to change it”
Gitte: Absolutely Jenny, it was a very different story and I agree; the Author handled the sensitivity of the subject matter really well with her excellent writing. As I said my heart hurt and the tears threatened throughout the whole story.
Now despite the Author making this story primarily Mel’s and Jordan, I really felt for Will. His world was rocked too and I felt that despite him being in the crux of the traumatic event through no fault or involvement of his own, his healing; his own personal and emotional tragedy was somehow only touched upon. Therefore once I read the epilogue and heard his voice I felt he was truly given the justice he deserved. Will is mature beyond his years and his strength immeasurable. This guy’s whole life was put in jeopardy yet he was so strong and loyal and I honestly thought Will was pretty amazing and he dealt tremendously with the hand he was given.
So yes, this was a really well written emotional story and it had some poignant messages in it. In the end I felt satisfied that everyone got their salvation; their redemption, the happiness they deserved. I needed to know they were going to be okay and continued to overcome the obstacles and hurdles this traumatic event brought into their lives.
Jenny: This was indeed a heart wrenching story and there were definitely tears. It’s a hard subject matter to deal with but I felt the author did a very good job of relaying the despair, loneliness and guilt Melanie and Jordan were feeling and handled the subject delicately. This is a story of dealing and moving on, about claiming your life back and never ever letting anyone have the power to destroy your life. I had become so invested in these characters, I had to know how they fared. I wanted to know how these life changing, tragic events had shaped them. I wanted to know if they were happy, if they received closure. In the end, like you Gitte, I was satisfied.
“I’m not that person anymore……and neither are you. We’re human, we make mistakes”
Arc supplied by the author for an honest review
February 5, 2013
Jenny: 4.5 stars
Gitte: 4.5 stars
Jenny: Every now and then you pick up a book, start reading it, anticipate something bad is going to happen and immediately get the urge to skip to the end. Not because you’re not enjoying it, but because your stomach is in knots and you need to know the characters you’re invested have survived their ordeal relatively unscathed. Such were my feelings whilst reading Nets & Lies.
I started this book and couldn’t put it down. I got to a point of no return, emotions were high and I was anxious to finish it because I needed to know how it all turned out. I finished it in one sitting. How about you Gitte?
Gitte: Yes, I have to say I found this story to be absolutely gripping. I read it in one sitting as well Jenny with my heart in my throat and the tears ready to fall. I was sucked into the story from the get go wanting to know it was all going to be okay. It was a story of sexual abuse, emotional trauma, surviving and overcoming personal suffering.
Jenny: Nets & Lies is the heartrending story of two girls whose lives are changed after a tragic event and is told through alternating POV’s from two people who couldn’t be more different. Melanie, who is sweet, in love with the gorgeous Will, is varsity team captain and she always plays by the rules. Melanie and Will are devoted to one another and have a future mapped out together.
Then we have Jordan, the polar opposite of Melanie. These two girls are night and day. Jordan uses her sexuality, breaks all the rules and is sexually active with Coach T, a married older man.
After a traumatic event, one chooses to keep a gut wrenching secret, one makes a claim that could ruin the reputation and livelihood of a well-respected and loved Coach.
For me, hearing from both Melanie and Jordan via the alternating POV’s allowed me to feel first hand the depth of the emotion and pain they were both experiencing. Although both situations were different you couldn’t help but empathize with both, though it was Melanie who absolutely broke my heart. What this girl went through crushed me and the aftermath was devastating, she dealt in the best way she knew how.
Gitte: Yes, the two girls sure where from extreme ends of the scale, yet I felt for them both for different reasons as the story progressed and we got to hear more of their individual voices.
Mel was a sweet dedicated and diligent young woman. She knew what she wanted out of life and planned it accordingly and she was honest and good to the core. Jordan was her polar opposite in the sense that lying, cheating and sleeping around where a means to an end despite the consequences of her actions.
Both get caught up in a horrific event that changes their paths; their lives forever.
For Mel this changes everything; her path in life; changes her personally; her relationship with her boyfriend Will. Deception? Lies? Or the Truth? Each comes with a price and the loss of normalcy and love.
For Jordan, in life, what comes easy through lies, dis-honesty and deception turns her hand and her path deviates to one of redemption and forgiveness. This girl was a victim too in her own right and has a mountain to climb with the surprising guidance of a chance encounter.
Jenny: This book was such a different read and I felt the subject matter was handled really well. You really felt the despair and emotion first hand right along with Mel. I have to say thought, that I also felt so much for Will in this story. He had to cope with so much on his young shoulders and under the circumstances, what a tower of strength he was for Melanie. Will showed loyalty and devotion well beyond his years and my heart went out to him because at the same time he had his own conflict to deal with.
The two relationships in this book, one developing, one dealing, were told so well through both girls eyes, two very different people, each with a heartbreaking story to tell.
“you fuck up your life. It’s what you do to change it”
Gitte: Absolutely Jenny, it was a very different story and I agree; the Author handled the sensitivity of the subject matter really well with her excellent writing. As I said my heart hurt and the tears threatened throughout the whole story.
Now despite the Author making this story primarily Mel’s and Jordan, I really felt for Will. His world was rocked too and I felt that despite him being in the crux of the traumatic event through no fault or involvement of his own, his healing; his own personal and emotional tragedy was somehow only touched upon. Therefore once I read the epilogue and heard his voice I felt he was truly given the justice he deserved. Will is mature beyond his years and his strength immeasurable. This guy’s whole life was put in jeopardy yet he was so strong and loyal and I honestly thought Will was pretty amazing and he dealt tremendously with the hand he was given.
So yes, this was a really well written emotional story and it had some poignant messages in it. In the end I felt satisfied that everyone got their salvation; their redemption, the happiness they deserved. I needed to know they were going to be okay and continued to overcome the obstacles and hurdles this traumatic event brought into their lives.
Jenny: This was indeed a heart wrenching story and there were definitely tears. It’s a hard subject matter to deal with but I felt the author did a very good job of relaying the despair, loneliness and guilt Melanie and Jordan were feeling and handled the subject delicately. This is a story of dealing and moving on, about claiming your life back and never ever letting anyone have the power to destroy your life. I had become so invested in these characters, I had to know how they fared. I wanted to know how these life changing, tragic events had shaped them. I wanted to know if they were happy, if they received closure. In the end, like you Gitte, I was satisfied.
“I’m not that person anymore……and neither are you. We’re human, we make mistakes”
Arc supplied by the author for an honest review
Gitte: 4.5 stars
Jenny: Every now and then you pick up a book, start reading it, anticipate something bad is going to happen and immediately get the urge to skip to the end. Not because you’re not enjoying it, but because your stomach is in knots and you need to know the characters you’re invested have survived their ordeal relatively unscathed. Such were my feelings whilst reading Nets & Lies.
I started this book and couldn’t put it down. I got to a point of no return, emotions were high and I was anxious to finish it because I needed to know how it all turned out. I finished it in one sitting. How about you Gitte?
Gitte: Yes, I have to say I found this story to be absolutely gripping. I read it in one sitting as well Jenny with my heart in my throat and the tears ready to fall. I was sucked into the story from the get go wanting to know it was all going to be okay. It was a story of sexual abuse, emotional trauma, surviving and overcoming personal suffering.
Jenny: Nets & Lies is the heartrending story of two girls whose lives are changed after a tragic event and is told through alternating POV’s from two people who couldn’t be more different. Melanie, who is sweet, in love with the gorgeous Will, is varsity team captain and she always plays by the rules. Melanie and Will are devoted to one another and have a future mapped out together.
Then we have Jordan, the polar opposite of Melanie. These two girls are night and day. Jordan uses her sexuality, breaks all the rules and is sexually active with Coach T, a married older man.
After a traumatic event, one chooses to keep a gut wrenching secret, one makes a claim that could ruin the reputation and livelihood of a well-respected and loved Coach.
For me, hearing from both Melanie and Jordan via the alternating POV’s allowed me to feel first hand the depth of the emotion and pain they were both experiencing. Although both situations were different you couldn’t help but empathize with both, though it was Melanie who absolutely broke my heart. What this girl went through crushed me and the aftermath was devastating, she dealt in the best way she knew how.
Gitte: Yes, the two girls sure where from extreme ends of the scale, yet I felt for them both for different reasons as the story progressed and we got to hear more of their individual voices.
Mel was a sweet dedicated and diligent young woman. She knew what she wanted out of life and planned it accordingly and she was honest and good to the core. Jordan was her polar opposite in the sense that lying, cheating and sleeping around where a means to an end despite the consequences of her actions.
Both get caught up in a horrific event that changes their paths; their lives forever.
For Mel this changes everything; her path in life; changes her personally; her relationship with her boyfriend Will. Deception? Lies? Or the Truth? Each comes with a price and the loss of normalcy and love.
For Jordan, in life, what comes easy through lies, dis-honesty and deception turns her hand and her path deviates to one of redemption and forgiveness. This girl was a victim too in her own right and has a mountain to climb with the surprising guidance of a chance encounter.
Jenny: This book was such a different read and I felt the subject matter was handled really well. You really felt the despair and emotion first hand right along with Mel. I have to say thought, that I also felt so much for Will in this story. He had to cope with so much on his young shoulders and under the circumstances, what a tower of strength he was for Melanie. Will showed loyalty and devotion well beyond his years and my heart went out to him because at the same time he had his own conflict to deal with.
The two relationships in this book, one developing, one dealing, were told so well through both girls eyes, two very different people, each with a heartbreaking story to tell.
“you fuck up your life. It’s what you do to change it”
Gitte: Absolutely Jenny, it was a very different story and I agree; the Author handled the sensitivity of the subject matter really well with her excellent writing. As I said my heart hurt and the tears threatened throughout the whole story.
Now despite the Author making this story primarily Mel’s and Jordan, I really felt for Will. His world was rocked too and I felt that despite him being in the crux of the traumatic event through no fault or involvement of his own, his healing; his own personal and emotional tragedy was somehow only touched upon. Therefore once I read the epilogue and heard his voice I felt he was truly given the justice he deserved. Will is mature beyond his years and his strength immeasurable. This guy’s whole life was put in jeopardy yet he was so strong and loyal and I honestly thought Will was pretty amazing and he dealt tremendously with the hand he was given.
So yes, this was a really well written emotional story and it had some poignant messages in it. In the end I felt satisfied that everyone got their salvation; their redemption, the happiness they deserved. I needed to know they were going to be okay and continued to overcome the obstacles and hurdles this traumatic event brought into their lives.
Jenny: This was indeed a heart wrenching story and there were definitely tears. It’s a hard subject matter to deal with but I felt the author did a very good job of relaying the despair, loneliness and guilt Melanie and Jordan were feeling and handled the subject delicately. This is a story of dealing and moving on, about claiming your life back and never ever letting anyone have the power to destroy your life. I had become so invested in these characters, I had to know how they fared. I wanted to know how these life changing, tragic events had shaped them. I wanted to know if they were happy, if they received closure. In the end, like you Gitte, I was satisfied.
“I’m not that person anymore……and neither are you. We’re human, we make mistakes”
Arc supplied by the author for an honest review
July 19, 2014
I did not do my homework - I got so excited about a new Ashely book that I bought it without reading the summary. I was a bit surprised to find myself reading, not a romance but a story of two girls and abuse. I kept on reading though - fully involved in the story.
Jordan: Now as much as I detest false accusations and the damage they do to real claims; part of me was torn on this. If she had not done what she did - Melanie might not have broke so soon. He might have gotten away with it. So as much as what she did was wrong, she started the ball rolling and it lead to Melanie's truth. Jordan has led a life where she has been conditioned not to love men, to use her physical abilities to get what she wants. But when she is rejected by Coach T she sees red. And a plot is developed to make him pay for his rejection. Jordan's redemption was moving and I am sitting in her cheering section with pom-poms and big foam fingers!
Melanie: I feel really bad for being so frustrated at her. But I was - for nearly 3/4 of the book I wanted to shake the hell out of her and knock some sense into her.
But then she snaps out of it and has to tell the truth, she has to come to terms with what happened and she needs to move forward to fight for her chance of a future. She has to face what happened and she has to deal with it - by being honest and actually dealing with her emotions. And I am jumping up and down and wishing I could put my arms into my Kindle and hug the shit out of her.
I ended up loving this story, although quite surprised by what I found - every emotion you could feel was felt. Whether reading a story of someone's abuse, hearing someone open up to you about theirs or even telling someone about your own; there is healing that occurs. For every person who reads a story like this and walks away feeling just untouched and uncomfortable, there are so many more that feel connected and that they are not alone. Whether the story they hear is fictional or not, fora moment they are not alone and that in itself is a wonder. Surviving abuse is a daily occurrence - you don't just hit a day and you are done. Every day is a new day of that survival and testament to the strength that could never have been taken from you by your abuser. Bravo Katie - I hope that this story reaches someone who is struggling with their own secret and maybe they will gain a voice after reading about these 2 brave girls that did just that.
February 7, 2013
My Gawd that was gutwrenching & intense. The fact that this stuff actually happens makes it so much worse. This book deals with some really sensitive subjects and harsh realities. Rape is a heinous awful shredding of innocence and this book deals with not only what the victim suffers but the fall out and effects it has on everyone else as well. It was disturbing to say the least, grab some tissues and hug your loved ones, this book will stay with you for a long time. An amazing group of characters, you will feel a connection with at least one of them if not all.
-Melanie's struggle will bring you to your knees. She really was an amazing girl with a huge heart, and a survivor.
-Jordan's journey was no less heartbreaking. Against all odds I found myself crying for her and hoping for the best. In the beginning you won't like her much but she will definitely crawl into your heart by the end.
-Will is truly an amazing guy. You don't really think about how something like this would affect the boyfriend/son until you read this. His love and support for Melanie while struggling on his own was absolutely stunning, just beautiful.
I'm not gonna lie, some of this book will be very hard to get through. Not due to any faults by the author, but the content alone is devastating at times. Katie Ashley is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors, her characters just slam themselves into our heads and imprint on our hearts.
I cannot recommend this book loudly enough, I strongly suggest, make it an urgent plea-Go Get This Book!! It will change the way you think about things.
-Melanie's struggle will bring you to your knees. She really was an amazing girl with a huge heart, and a survivor.
-Jordan's journey was no less heartbreaking. Against all odds I found myself crying for her and hoping for the best. In the beginning you won't like her much but she will definitely crawl into your heart by the end.
-Will is truly an amazing guy. You don't really think about how something like this would affect the boyfriend/son until you read this. His love and support for Melanie while struggling on his own was absolutely stunning, just beautiful.
I'm not gonna lie, some of this book will be very hard to get through. Not due to any faults by the author, but the content alone is devastating at times. Katie Ashley is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors, her characters just slam themselves into our heads and imprint on our hearts.
I cannot recommend this book loudly enough, I strongly suggest, make it an urgent plea-Go Get This Book!! It will change the way you think about things.
February 4, 2013
A book of sadness, betrayal, selfishness, revenge, pity and devastation. But ultimately, this is a book of hope.. the meaning of second chances, learning to move forward and having the courage to confront the truth and make a change for the better.
+Caution: some touchy topics such as rape are involved in this book+ (But definitely worth the read!)
Great book 4/5!
+Caution: some touchy topics such as rape are involved in this book+ (But definitely worth the read!)
Great book 4/5!
February 13, 2013
There isn't really any words to describe how this book made me feel. All sorts of emotions were flowing as I read this, but wow this really is a must read!!!!
February 18, 2013
Wow...this book really touched on some hard to read plot points.
Nets & Lies tells the story of two very different girls: Melanie Reeves and Jordan Solano. One makes a false accusation of rape against the basketball coach, the other was actually raped.
Melanie Reeves is varsity captain of her school's basketball team, and the star player. She has the perfect boyfriend (the coach's son) and pretty much the perfect life...until one day after practice, her virginity is taken from her by force from her coach.
Jordan Solano has a well-known reputation as a bad girl. She lies, she ditches school, and she's having an affair with the coach of the basketball team. But when the coach suddenly breaks off their affair, she wants to hurt him, make him suffer for the heartbreak he caused her. So she cries rape.
One lie brings out the others truth in a this story about finding your voice through the darkness. I won't lie, the rape scene was extremely hard to read for me. The idea of someone in a position of power exerting force over someone else sickens me. And his response after realizing he had taken her virginity, "I just assumed you and Will had been together. I would have taken it slower if I'd know that."
WHAT THE HELL??
Sick. It just makes me sick.
I won't lie. I was extremely frustrated with Melanie for a majority of this book because of her refusal to tell the truth of what happened. I chalk it up the writing of the author for pulling such extreme reactions out of me. I felt horrible for Melanie, but also really wanted to shake some sense into her. Her internal fight over wanting to tell the truth but not wanting to hurt her family or her boyfriend and his family was very realistic.
I agree with some of the other reviews that I've read. This book kind of read like a Lifetime movie and at times was very predictable. I could have done without some of the later plots, , but I admired the author for showing some very realistic responses to the situation.
While this book is a work of fiction, this kind of behavior happens all the time and not all victims come forward. A very tough subject, but a good read.
Nets & Lies tells the story of two very different girls: Melanie Reeves and Jordan Solano. One makes a false accusation of rape against the basketball coach, the other was actually raped.
Melanie Reeves is varsity captain of her school's basketball team, and the star player. She has the perfect boyfriend (the coach's son) and pretty much the perfect life...until one day after practice, her virginity is taken from her by force from her coach.
Jordan Solano has a well-known reputation as a bad girl. She lies, she ditches school, and she's having an affair with the coach of the basketball team. But when the coach suddenly breaks off their affair, she wants to hurt him, make him suffer for the heartbreak he caused her. So she cries rape.
One lie brings out the others truth in a this story about finding your voice through the darkness. I won't lie, the rape scene was extremely hard to read for me. The idea of someone in a position of power exerting force over someone else sickens me. And his response after realizing he had taken her virginity, "I just assumed you and Will had been together. I would have taken it slower if I'd know that."
WHAT THE HELL??
Sick. It just makes me sick.
I won't lie. I was extremely frustrated with Melanie for a majority of this book because of her refusal to tell the truth of what happened. I chalk it up the writing of the author for pulling such extreme reactions out of me. I felt horrible for Melanie, but also really wanted to shake some sense into her. Her internal fight over wanting to tell the truth but not wanting to hurt her family or her boyfriend and his family was very realistic.
I agree with some of the other reviews that I've read. This book kind of read like a Lifetime movie and at times was very predictable. I could have done without some of the later plots, , but I admired the author for showing some very realistic responses to the situation.
While this book is a work of fiction, this kind of behavior happens all the time and not all victims come forward. A very tough subject, but a good read.
February 13, 2013
I'm having one hell of a hard time reviewing this book.
It was one of the most difficult books I've ever read.
Especially the beginning. And I mean the part that will be the focus of the story.
I've read many times about rape. But I never had such a hard time like like with this.
It was seriously painful.
I read the whole scene frozen, wide-eyed, shocked, heart beating crazily fast, my gut hurting and I just couldn't shake the feeling of disgust and rage off me. Disgust and rage toward Couch T. I just wanted to beat him, torture him and kill him slowly for what he did to Melanie. In that instant I was Melanie. And it was Hell on Earth. And after the deed, I despised him more for what he said to her. He deserved to suffer and die slowly and painfully.
The whole book was so sad and painful. I cried so much, my eyes and head hurt. I cried for Melanie, I cried for Will. I cried for Melanie and Will as couple.
I'm not sure I can find any more words to describe this book. I guess you just have to read it to understand and appreciate it.
I liked Mel, she was one hell of a tough girl, and obviously crazy in love with Will; Will, so sweet and caring and totally in love with Mel; Jordan, with all her flaws and weaknesses, and yet with a big heart and very sensible. Though I didn't always agreed with all their behaviours/actions/reactions. I even liked Nick. He was so sweet and so very much a keeper. I even liked Dr. Leighton. An awesome therapist.
I was happy of how the story ended for Mel and Will, and for Jordan and Nick.
Not really satisfying the end for Couch T, but I guess you can't have everything.
Recommended. But you're warned: you'll cry your eyes out!
It was one of the most difficult books I've ever read.
Especially the beginning. And I mean the part that will be the focus of the story.
I've read many times about rape. But I never had such a hard time like like with this.
It was seriously painful.
I read the whole scene frozen, wide-eyed, shocked, heart beating crazily fast, my gut hurting and I just couldn't shake the feeling of disgust and rage off me. Disgust and rage toward Couch T. I just wanted to beat him, torture him and kill him slowly for what he did to Melanie. In that instant I was Melanie. And it was Hell on Earth. And after the deed, I despised him more for what he said to her. He deserved to suffer and die slowly and painfully.
The whole book was so sad and painful. I cried so much, my eyes and head hurt. I cried for Melanie, I cried for Will. I cried for Melanie and Will as couple.
I'm not sure I can find any more words to describe this book. I guess you just have to read it to understand and appreciate it.
I liked Mel, she was one hell of a tough girl, and obviously crazy in love with Will; Will, so sweet and caring and totally in love with Mel; Jordan, with all her flaws and weaknesses, and yet with a big heart and very sensible. Though I didn't always agreed with all their behaviours/actions/reactions. I even liked Nick. He was so sweet and so very much a keeper. I even liked Dr. Leighton. An awesome therapist.
I was happy of how the story ended for Mel and Will, and for Jordan and Nick.
Not really satisfying the end for Couch T, but I guess you can't have everything.
Recommended. But you're warned: you'll cry your eyes out!
February 4, 2013
Review 4.5 stars
Wow! There were a couple of times during this book that I just had to stop reading. Not because the story and its message were poorly-written…the opposite honestly. Because I was a victim when I was in high school, I found myself having to step away from it and all of the emotions it raised in me. When an author can do that, can draw me in and hit me in the heart, I am extremely grateful as it means I’m a different person when I put the book down at the end of the day.
My story isn’t exactly the same but I could relate to so many of Melanie’s thoughts, her pain, her disassociation, and the fear of telling someone what happened to her and what they will think or even believe. Be prepared for some strong feelings if you’ve experienced rape or sexual assault. She is fortunate to have a strong support system even though at times that seems that is at peril.
Jordan is the other central female character in Nets and Lies. Although her means for getting what she thinks she wants is not anywhere close to ideal, she comes out a stronger person for it. She seeks forgiveness. And there is hope for her as she learns more of who she is and what she wants.
Katie Ashley delivered a story that will be with me for a long time. I deeply appreciate her approach to Melanie’s story and how it was real and left me with hope knowing that life is a journey with small victories along the way.
Wow! There were a couple of times during this book that I just had to stop reading. Not because the story and its message were poorly-written…the opposite honestly. Because I was a victim when I was in high school, I found myself having to step away from it and all of the emotions it raised in me. When an author can do that, can draw me in and hit me in the heart, I am extremely grateful as it means I’m a different person when I put the book down at the end of the day.
My story isn’t exactly the same but I could relate to so many of Melanie’s thoughts, her pain, her disassociation, and the fear of telling someone what happened to her and what they will think or even believe. Be prepared for some strong feelings if you’ve experienced rape or sexual assault. She is fortunate to have a strong support system even though at times that seems that is at peril.
Jordan is the other central female character in Nets and Lies. Although her means for getting what she thinks she wants is not anywhere close to ideal, she comes out a stronger person for it. She seeks forgiveness. And there is hope for her as she learns more of who she is and what she wants.
Katie Ashley delivered a story that will be with me for a long time. I deeply appreciate her approach to Melanie’s story and how it was real and left me with hope knowing that life is a journey with small victories along the way.
February 5, 2013
This book moved me, and not just slightly. It was a book that I couldn't read all in one sitting. I had to put it down, think about it and go back to it when I couldn't stand not knowing more. Its the story of misguided love, first loves, misuse of authority, lies, truth and how to deal with everything in between.
Melanie is the star basketball player, the captain, the good girl with the jock boyfriend. Jordan is the popular girl, with a reputation to boot, and a take no prisoners attitude.
Both are lying, one is telling the truth without knowing it.
This story is heartbreaking, moving, and inspiring. Heartbreaking in that 18 year old girls should not have to deal with this sort of thing, moving because you go through all of the emotions they experience alongside them. Katie Ashley has written this story in such a way that you feel what they feel, you cry alongside them and you honestly want to hug them when they reach breaking point.
Totally different from any other Katie Ashley books, this book just goes to prove her versatility and shows off her extensive writing talents. Loved it.
Melanie is the star basketball player, the captain, the good girl with the jock boyfriend. Jordan is the popular girl, with a reputation to boot, and a take no prisoners attitude.
Both are lying, one is telling the truth without knowing it.
This story is heartbreaking, moving, and inspiring. Heartbreaking in that 18 year old girls should not have to deal with this sort of thing, moving because you go through all of the emotions they experience alongside them. Katie Ashley has written this story in such a way that you feel what they feel, you cry alongside them and you honestly want to hug them when they reach breaking point.
Totally different from any other Katie Ashley books, this book just goes to prove her versatility and shows off her extensive writing talents. Loved it.
February 7, 2013
The Past can't be changed. But the future is whatever you want it to be.
Dear Ms. Ashley,
I must admit that the first thought that I had was hoping it had better be a good book, at least, better than The Proposal and The Proposition. But I was kindly surprised and amazed with this powerful, incredible, amazing, tender novel.
Your characters were not only well traced, but all the changes they had during the story were welcomed and encouraged. The plot isn't such a nice, happy topic, but you treated so smooth, delicate, and respectful. Self-forgiveness is the most difficult task that a human being can do. It takes a lot of energy and it's the ultimate gift for ourselves.
I cried, laugh, scream [which I admit it's pretty awkward surrounded by students].... definitely enjoyed the emotional roller-coaster.
Thanks, Ms. Ashley, because finally you did it.
Dear Ms. Ashley,
I must admit that the first thought that I had was hoping it had better be a good book, at least, better than The Proposal and The Proposition. But I was kindly surprised and amazed with this powerful, incredible, amazing, tender novel.
Your characters were not only well traced, but all the changes they had during the story were welcomed and encouraged. The plot isn't such a nice, happy topic, but you treated so smooth, delicate, and respectful. Self-forgiveness is the most difficult task that a human being can do. It takes a lot of energy and it's the ultimate gift for ourselves.
I cried, laugh, scream [which I admit it's pretty awkward surrounded by students].... definitely enjoyed the emotional roller-coaster.
Thanks, Ms. Ashley, because finally you did it.
February 19, 2013
Great story about child abusing and teachers who molests students. It was actually an eye opener for everyone out there who would like to stop lying and tell the truth for those kids who have experience these kind of things.
I had fair share of dark thoughts while reading this entire book. All I can think about is how I can ripped off Coach T's balls with a crusted saw and shove it in his throat! I fucking absolutely hate sick fuck bastards who ruined girls lives! Child molester, rapist and a pedophile! I see RED! That sick lying fuck! Ugh! I wish I can strangle him to death. It was all I can think about the whole time. Abusing girls is so hard for me and I'll do it in a heartbeat if I saw fuckers like that!
I had fair share of dark thoughts while reading this entire book. All I can think about is how I can ripped off Coach T's balls with a crusted saw and shove it in his throat! I fucking absolutely hate sick fuck bastards who ruined girls lives! Child molester, rapist and a pedophile! I see RED! That sick lying fuck! Ugh! I wish I can strangle him to death. It was all I can think about the whole time. Abusing girls is so hard for me and I'll do it in a heartbeat if I saw fuckers like that!
February 8, 2013
Wow, first things first...Katie Ashley is an amazing writer. This book is so completely different than The Proposition and The Proposal. I almost didn't buy this book because when I read the description, it didn't grab me. I am so glad I decided to read it.
This book deals with the rape of a high school student by a teacher. I went through so many emotions while reading this book. Definitely have some tissue on hand.
I loved having the POV's from both Melanie and Jordan. And I liked reading Will's POV in the epilogue.
Go buy this book now! It's currently on sale for 99 cents; but even at the regular price it is worth every penny!
This book deals with the rape of a high school student by a teacher. I went through so many emotions while reading this book. Definitely have some tissue on hand.
I loved having the POV's from both Melanie and Jordan. And I liked reading Will's POV in the epilogue.
Go buy this book now! It's currently on sale for 99 cents; but even at the regular price it is worth every penny!
February 11, 2013
I want to thank the author for putting the trigger warnings in the book description - I'm a major advocate of having trigger warnings.
Because of the trigger warnings, I knew exactly what I was walking into reading this book. I was really glad I read this book.
Because of the trigger warnings, I knew exactly what I was walking into reading this book. I was really glad I read this book.
February 8, 2013
Wonderful, sensitive read about a awful, heartbreaking topic. I love Katie Ashley's writing and she's now an auto-buy for me...yep, I'm a fan.
February 15, 2013
Wow... This very delicate subject was tackled with grace. This is a very emotionally charged book and leaves you at peace in the end....
March 5, 2013
Kitty‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 Stars
I am not overly surprised when I read a book by Katie Ashley that has you on an emotional roller-coaster and turning each page wanting to see what is going to happen next. Believe me, Nets and Lies is NOT a romantic love story in the sense that “The Proposition” and “The Proposal” were. It’s a hard hitting, emotional book that had me walking away from it several times to get myself together to face what was possibly going to happen next. Rape, sexual addictions, teenage angst, facing your past and looking to the future and coming out a better person barely covers everything that happened in this book.
Melanie and Jordan are not friends. One, the high-school sweetheart ready to lead her team to the championships under the guidance of a wonderful coach, in love with the coach’s son and looking forward to a life together with him. The other, a mean-spirited girl bent on revenge for her broken-heart, her broken past, her sexual escapades … what better way to get even but to cry “Rape”?
Jordan and Will have a teen-age love that they want to bring to the next level. They know that this is it for them; they know that the love they feel for each other will carry them through their lives. Senior year is bringing them everything they both ever dreamed of – both are the Captains of their basketball teams, good students and looking forward to college. Then, everything changes – their lives, their love, their hopes for the future. Rape. How does she tell Will, how does she cope, how is she ever going to face everything without telling the truth. Just lie …. to save herself, to save Will, to save Coach T, to save her future. She has no idea how she will survive if Will ever finds out that his father, Coach T, raped her.
Melanie was raised by her mother – a self-centered woman who thinks that the world owes her something. She raises Melanie to believe that men are dirt and good for only one thing; don’t ever let one get to your heart; get what you want and get out. When Melanie comes home upset that the man she was seeing broke up with her, told her that it was over, her mother convinces her to cry “Rape” to get her revenge. Life will never be the same again as she openly accuses Coach T of rape then tells the authorities that she wasn’t the only one – Melanie Reeves was raped too!
Will cannot believe that his life is falling apart around him. Accusations against his father, the girl he loves changing, the arguments at home. He has no choice but to stand beside his father.
Melanie has told everyone that she wasn’t raped and everyone knows that Jordan is a liar, cheat and “easy”. The school and all it’s students are standing behind Coach T and turning against Jordan for her lies. But then Melanie has a break-down and the truth finally comes out. Now, how does he stand behind the father that took the innocence of the girl of his dreams, how does he face the public knowing what his father has done, how does he tell Melanie that he knew his father was capable of exactly what she was now accusing him of? His biggest fear – will he lose her, will she be able to still accept him, does she still love him?
Watching the three of these teenagers change and come through all the lies and accusations was amazing. I hated Jordan for her lies and I prayed for Melanie to come through this a stronger person. Jordan’s mother is the personification of a “stage mom” – hell, she even helped her make up the lie. Coach T – well we won’t go into my feelings for what he did or for the type of person he is. Rape is an unforgivable act … Rape by your coach and mentor well, castration isn’t good enough in my book. But, the transformations of Melanie, Will and Jordan were unbelievable as they all realized the mistakes that were made, the transgressions that were committed and what needed to be done to right the wrongs. Melanie faces the rape with Will by her side … Jordan faces her life and how she was living it with the help of Nick, an ex-addict who shows her that the past is the past and the future can be so much better.
Katie Ashley’s writing was simple, to the point and extremely emotional. She brought love, hate and betrayal alive. She showed you what a manipulating, bitter mother can really be like. She turned two girls into woman before your eyes and gave them both a future that they could be proud of. Even though “Nets and Lies” touched on some taboo subjects, it was an extremely well-written book that brought true life to life. Unfortunately, it’s a story that we all know too well, can be true in today’s environment. Having teenagers, we can only hope that we would be there for them as Melanie’s parents were and not as Jordan’s; they we have brought them up to be strong people to face the life ahead of them no matter what curves are thrown at them; and, to trust in their hearts and love.
5 Stars
I am not overly surprised when I read a book by Katie Ashley that has you on an emotional roller-coaster and turning each page wanting to see what is going to happen next. Believe me, Nets and Lies is NOT a romantic love story in the sense that “The Proposition” and “The Proposal” were. It’s a hard hitting, emotional book that had me walking away from it several times to get myself together to face what was possibly going to happen next. Rape, sexual addictions, teenage angst, facing your past and looking to the future and coming out a better person barely covers everything that happened in this book.
Melanie and Jordan are not friends. One, the high-school sweetheart ready to lead her team to the championships under the guidance of a wonderful coach, in love with the coach’s son and looking forward to a life together with him. The other, a mean-spirited girl bent on revenge for her broken-heart, her broken past, her sexual escapades … what better way to get even but to cry “Rape”?
Jordan and Will have a teen-age love that they want to bring to the next level. They know that this is it for them; they know that the love they feel for each other will carry them through their lives. Senior year is bringing them everything they both ever dreamed of – both are the Captains of their basketball teams, good students and looking forward to college. Then, everything changes – their lives, their love, their hopes for the future. Rape. How does she tell Will, how does she cope, how is she ever going to face everything without telling the truth. Just lie …. to save herself, to save Will, to save Coach T, to save her future. She has no idea how she will survive if Will ever finds out that his father, Coach T, raped her.
Melanie was raised by her mother – a self-centered woman who thinks that the world owes her something. She raises Melanie to believe that men are dirt and good for only one thing; don’t ever let one get to your heart; get what you want and get out. When Melanie comes home upset that the man she was seeing broke up with her, told her that it was over, her mother convinces her to cry “Rape” to get her revenge. Life will never be the same again as she openly accuses Coach T of rape then tells the authorities that she wasn’t the only one – Melanie Reeves was raped too!
Will cannot believe that his life is falling apart around him. Accusations against his father, the girl he loves changing, the arguments at home. He has no choice but to stand beside his father.
Melanie has told everyone that she wasn’t raped and everyone knows that Jordan is a liar, cheat and “easy”. The school and all it’s students are standing behind Coach T and turning against Jordan for her lies. But then Melanie has a break-down and the truth finally comes out. Now, how does he stand behind the father that took the innocence of the girl of his dreams, how does he face the public knowing what his father has done, how does he tell Melanie that he knew his father was capable of exactly what she was now accusing him of? His biggest fear – will he lose her, will she be able to still accept him, does she still love him?
Watching the three of these teenagers change and come through all the lies and accusations was amazing. I hated Jordan for her lies and I prayed for Melanie to come through this a stronger person. Jordan’s mother is the personification of a “stage mom” – hell, she even helped her make up the lie. Coach T – well we won’t go into my feelings for what he did or for the type of person he is. Rape is an unforgivable act … Rape by your coach and mentor well, castration isn’t good enough in my book. But, the transformations of Melanie, Will and Jordan were unbelievable as they all realized the mistakes that were made, the transgressions that were committed and what needed to be done to right the wrongs. Melanie faces the rape with Will by her side … Jordan faces her life and how she was living it with the help of Nick, an ex-addict who shows her that the past is the past and the future can be so much better.
Katie Ashley’s writing was simple, to the point and extremely emotional. She brought love, hate and betrayal alive. She showed you what a manipulating, bitter mother can really be like. She turned two girls into woman before your eyes and gave them both a future that they could be proud of. Even though “Nets and Lies” touched on some taboo subjects, it was an extremely well-written book that brought true life to life. Unfortunately, it’s a story that we all know too well, can be true in today’s environment. Having teenagers, we can only hope that we would be there for them as Melanie’s parents were and not as Jordan’s; they we have brought them up to be strong people to face the life ahead of them no matter what curves are thrown at them; and, to trust in their hearts and love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2013
WOW! This has to be one of the most powerful books I have read in a while. I was warned about the situation by Katie Ashley prior to accepting an ARC to do the review. Nets and lies brought out so many emotions with in me.
Gasp, did that really just happen.....then it went into
My mind was reeling from the turn of events.
then I was....
By the time I got to a certain part of the book, I had to put it down and walk away for a bit.
Whoa! We have 2 girls that are exact opposites yet are both victims. I could not understand certain decisions that Melanie made but, as I read the inner voice of Melanie, I could visualize and sympathize with the reasons why she did and said the things she did.
Jordan, Jordan, Jordan.....(sigh)
The other main female in the story. I was not to pleased with her at first but, as I continued reading her story, I understood her more and more, although I did not agree with her actions. All things will eventually do come to light. In a way I was upset with what she did, but then in another I was kind of glad that she did because with out that I do believe one of them would have hurt far worse for a lot longer. By the end of the story I was pleased with Jordan's outcome and was happy with where she ended up.
Although Katie Ashley's Net and Lies was a gut wrenching, roller coaster of emotions, I admired her for writing this story. I have known a few girls (now women) that have gone through, maybe not exactly but close to this story. I was drawn in and at times had to walk away for my own sanity, to just breathe and calm down, because I could literally feel all that anguish rolling off my computer. There are moments were I was glad to see that Melanie had such a great support system. Along the way both Melanie and Jordan find out what true friendships really are.
Gasp, did that really just happen.....then it went into
My mind was reeling from the turn of events.
then I was....
By the time I got to a certain part of the book, I had to put it down and walk away for a bit.
Whoa! We have 2 girls that are exact opposites yet are both victims. I could not understand certain decisions that Melanie made but, as I read the inner voice of Melanie, I could visualize and sympathize with the reasons why she did and said the things she did.
Jordan, Jordan, Jordan.....(sigh)
The other main female in the story. I was not to pleased with her at first but, as I continued reading her story, I understood her more and more, although I did not agree with her actions. All things will eventually do come to light. In a way I was upset with what she did, but then in another I was kind of glad that she did because with out that I do believe one of them would have hurt far worse for a lot longer. By the end of the story I was pleased with Jordan's outcome and was happy with where she ended up.
Although Katie Ashley's Net and Lies was a gut wrenching, roller coaster of emotions, I admired her for writing this story. I have known a few girls (now women) that have gone through, maybe not exactly but close to this story. I was drawn in and at times had to walk away for my own sanity, to just breathe and calm down, because I could literally feel all that anguish rolling off my computer. There are moments were I was glad to see that Melanie had such a great support system. Along the way both Melanie and Jordan find out what true friendships really are.
April 8, 2013
This one was a tough one for me to read and I can admit that. My kids are at school and I am home alone, so I could cry in peace. The remaining portion of my review will be hidden, because I don't know if I can keep spoilers out.
Overall, emotional story.
Overall, emotional story.
February 3, 2013
First and foremost let me say that Katie Ashley is an amazing and talented author. She has a way with words that draws the reader in and leaves you constantly turning the page to find out what happens next; Nets and Lies was no different. I was completely enthralled with this story. I am glad I was given an ARC and allowed the opportunity to review Nets and Lies.
WOW, what a compelling story. Seriously, this book was riveting and rocked me to the core. Nets and Lies is a story about sexual abuse, heartache, survivorship, redemption and healing. I was completely and utterly sucked into this story from the first chapter. The characters were well developed leaving no unanswered questions once the book was finished. I found myself gasping, crying, and sighing; it brought out a range of emotions in me throughout the book. It’s been a long time since a book has pulled so many emotions out of me and left me so impressed. Not only was the story fantastic but the writing knocked my socks off! Nets and Lies left me saying damn that was one hell of a good book. Katie Ashley has done it again!
Melanie was a vivacious young woman who had her whole life ahead of her and her future pretty much mapped out. Graduate high school, go to college, play basketball, marry Will, and just enjoy life. However, sometimes our life doesn't quite go as planned. Melanie was forced to deal with the hand she was dealt. She had to make a decision to tell the truth and let the consequences fall as they may; possibly losing everything she loved or continuing lying and risk her sanity! It was a hard choice for Melanie and you truly see her struggles and feel her pain and heartache throughout the story.
Oh Jordan, that girl was a piece of work. She was the complete opposite of Melanie. I wonder what possessed her to spread lies and her legs and try to ruin someone’s reputation based on false accusations. It truly showed her character or so I thought. Again, Jordan surprised me and I found myself gasping like seriously wow she really is an okay chic. Jordan found redemption by finding herself again after she had become someone she didn't recognize and she didn't want to be any longer.
Ah Will, Melanie’s boyfriend. He truly had it rough at times once the story began unfolding. I could not imagine what he was going through once the story broke. He had everything a guy could want. He was dating the high school captain of the girls basketball team, his dad was a coach at his high school, he had two loving parents, and a promising scholarship and career in basketball. In one instance all of what Will had was in jeopardy for a choice that wasn't his own.
Coach Thompson or Coach T as they called him was Melanie’s basketball coach, Will’s dad, and Jordan’s love interest. This was a man that everyone respected. The students, teachers, and parents all looked up to the Coach. With his reputation being putting on the line by accusations by Jordan; will he prove to be the man everyone thinks he is or will another side to the Coach be revealed?
Hmmm, you will have to read Nets and Lies to find out.
Nets and Lies releases on 02/04/13 be sure to grab your copy on Amazon!
***5 STARS*** www.SeductiveRomanceReviews.com
WOW, what a compelling story. Seriously, this book was riveting and rocked me to the core. Nets and Lies is a story about sexual abuse, heartache, survivorship, redemption and healing. I was completely and utterly sucked into this story from the first chapter. The characters were well developed leaving no unanswered questions once the book was finished. I found myself gasping, crying, and sighing; it brought out a range of emotions in me throughout the book. It’s been a long time since a book has pulled so many emotions out of me and left me so impressed. Not only was the story fantastic but the writing knocked my socks off! Nets and Lies left me saying damn that was one hell of a good book. Katie Ashley has done it again!
Melanie was a vivacious young woman who had her whole life ahead of her and her future pretty much mapped out. Graduate high school, go to college, play basketball, marry Will, and just enjoy life. However, sometimes our life doesn't quite go as planned. Melanie was forced to deal with the hand she was dealt. She had to make a decision to tell the truth and let the consequences fall as they may; possibly losing everything she loved or continuing lying and risk her sanity! It was a hard choice for Melanie and you truly see her struggles and feel her pain and heartache throughout the story.
Oh Jordan, that girl was a piece of work. She was the complete opposite of Melanie. I wonder what possessed her to spread lies and her legs and try to ruin someone’s reputation based on false accusations. It truly showed her character or so I thought. Again, Jordan surprised me and I found myself gasping like seriously wow she really is an okay chic. Jordan found redemption by finding herself again after she had become someone she didn't recognize and she didn't want to be any longer.
Ah Will, Melanie’s boyfriend. He truly had it rough at times once the story began unfolding. I could not imagine what he was going through once the story broke. He had everything a guy could want. He was dating the high school captain of the girls basketball team, his dad was a coach at his high school, he had two loving parents, and a promising scholarship and career in basketball. In one instance all of what Will had was in jeopardy for a choice that wasn't his own.
Coach Thompson or Coach T as they called him was Melanie’s basketball coach, Will’s dad, and Jordan’s love interest. This was a man that everyone respected. The students, teachers, and parents all looked up to the Coach. With his reputation being putting on the line by accusations by Jordan; will he prove to be the man everyone thinks he is or will another side to the Coach be revealed?
Hmmm, you will have to read Nets and Lies to find out.
Nets and Lies releases on 02/04/13 be sure to grab your copy on Amazon!
***5 STARS*** www.SeductiveRomanceReviews.com
February 5, 2013
My Review of Net and Lies by Katie Ashley
What a tangled web we weave. Emotions run very high in this book, so let that be a warning.
This book really was captivating and I couldn’t put it down. Katie does a wonderful job developing this story, from the opening chapter to the very end; I never knew what was going to happen next.
A shattered spirit is what Melanie is left with after her basketball coach, friend and teacher, shatters a sacred trust. Melanie endures something that no girl should ever have to experience in her lifetime. Coach Thompson is also her boyfriend’s father. But a man he is not! No real man can do what he did, lie about it and call himself a man. Melanie’s whole life is torn apart and keeping the secret to protect her relationship with her boyfriend is ripping her apart a little at a time.
Melanie is such a loving, trusting and caring girl. She was admired by everyone so when she hid what happened and lied to everyone, nobody suspected a thing. She kept it together until she couldn’t hide it anymore.
If Jordan, Melanie’s class mate hadn’t accused Coach T of the unspeakable acts, what happened to Melanie might never have been known. Jordan’s hurting because she feels wronged so she lies about Coach T and sets the events that unravel into motion. Jordan was raised by a woman who brow beat into her that men are not capable of loving her. I felt horrible for Jordan, even though at her age she should know right from wrong.
People always say that you are a product of your environment and Jordan had allowed herself to be abused and used at a very young age. Just like her mother. She harbors some dark secrets that only her mother and one other knows about, and these demons haunt her mind. She is riddled with regrets of things in her life, yet she feels she deserves every bad thing that happens to her for her mistakes. You cannot help but feel for her even though she lied about what happened with the coach. When Jordan meets Nick she starts to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Seeing her redeem herself and become a person of worth was rewarding in the end. She didn’t deserve the things that happened to her, but she needed to believe in herself and Nick helped her see that she didn’t deserve the bad and had to put the past behind and focus on the future.
Nick was one of my favorite characters in this book! I felt like he added so much value to Jordan’s story. He was sweet and loving and had been through hell and back. He saw that Jordan was hurting and took it upon himself to help her even as he continued to struggle with his own demons. I really truly loved his character.
The character development throughout this book was solid and gave us a lot of insight to each of them, their thoughts. The story wasn’t just about the acts that happened and dwelling on them. It was truly about healing, forgiveness, redemption and true love.
Katie hits it out of the park with this book, but then again I had no doubts that she would. I rate this book at 4.5 stars. FANTASTIC READ!!!!!
What a tangled web we weave. Emotions run very high in this book, so let that be a warning.
This book really was captivating and I couldn’t put it down. Katie does a wonderful job developing this story, from the opening chapter to the very end; I never knew what was going to happen next.
A shattered spirit is what Melanie is left with after her basketball coach, friend and teacher, shatters a sacred trust. Melanie endures something that no girl should ever have to experience in her lifetime. Coach Thompson is also her boyfriend’s father. But a man he is not! No real man can do what he did, lie about it and call himself a man. Melanie’s whole life is torn apart and keeping the secret to protect her relationship with her boyfriend is ripping her apart a little at a time.
Melanie is such a loving, trusting and caring girl. She was admired by everyone so when she hid what happened and lied to everyone, nobody suspected a thing. She kept it together until she couldn’t hide it anymore.
If Jordan, Melanie’s class mate hadn’t accused Coach T of the unspeakable acts, what happened to Melanie might never have been known. Jordan’s hurting because she feels wronged so she lies about Coach T and sets the events that unravel into motion. Jordan was raised by a woman who brow beat into her that men are not capable of loving her. I felt horrible for Jordan, even though at her age she should know right from wrong.
People always say that you are a product of your environment and Jordan had allowed herself to be abused and used at a very young age. Just like her mother. She harbors some dark secrets that only her mother and one other knows about, and these demons haunt her mind. She is riddled with regrets of things in her life, yet she feels she deserves every bad thing that happens to her for her mistakes. You cannot help but feel for her even though she lied about what happened with the coach. When Jordan meets Nick she starts to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Seeing her redeem herself and become a person of worth was rewarding in the end. She didn’t deserve the things that happened to her, but she needed to believe in herself and Nick helped her see that she didn’t deserve the bad and had to put the past behind and focus on the future.
Nick was one of my favorite characters in this book! I felt like he added so much value to Jordan’s story. He was sweet and loving and had been through hell and back. He saw that Jordan was hurting and took it upon himself to help her even as he continued to struggle with his own demons. I really truly loved his character.
The character development throughout this book was solid and gave us a lot of insight to each of them, their thoughts. The story wasn’t just about the acts that happened and dwelling on them. It was truly about healing, forgiveness, redemption and true love.
Katie hits it out of the park with this book, but then again I had no doubts that she would. I rate this book at 4.5 stars. FANTASTIC READ!!!!!
February 19, 2013
First time I read Katie Ashley's book, The Proposition, I instantly knew that I like her work. The sequel, The Proposal just strengthen my feeling. With Nets and Lies, I believe my feeling towards her works has been shifted: I LOVE KATIE ASHLEY! Before it turned all weird and drama, I believe I need to elaborate why I love her more now. Where should I begin?
In my opinion, the story was well written that made my heart twisted and wrenched. I held my breath every now and then. It could make me smile and I cried a little — Heck, I wanted to cry hard but I had to keep my cool from the people around. Although it is a fiction, the fact that the story was based on an actual event has made my emotion took a roller-coaster leap.
Each character was portrayed and described thoroughly. Quickly, we could fell in love with Melanie. We understood what made her special, how her relationships with her family, boyfriend Will, and team-mates, seemed perfect. Then it all fell apart when a tragedy occured that involved the man who she looked up to, Mark Thompson a.k.a Coach T. Coach T was not only her basketball coach but he was also Will's father. The story became more twisted when the notorious character, Jordan, involved in her recently messed-up life. The holy-mess was not only turned Melanie and Will's world upside down, but also the entire school's... ... ... and, surprisingly, Jordan's.
The only thing that could change their lives for the better was telling the TRUTH. The truth might hurts but it helped them to heal. We could see how Melanie was fighting to get her way back from a rape victim into becoming a survivor. She went through some bumpy roads in order to make peace to herself, to Will, to Jordan, and to the world.
The moral of the story has slapped me in the face. RAPE is a very sensitive and serious issue that sadly often happen amongst us. We may not realize it, but IT HAPPENS! For all rape victims out there, DO NOT BLAME YOURSELF. It is very IMPORTANT to open up to someone. You may not be pressing charges but DO TELL SOMEONE. Any form of sexual harassments or abuses are NO PARTY BUSINESSES! It is not healthy to chew everything all out alone. It's best to throw it all out your gut then fill in new hopes for brighter future.
“The past held a darkness that blotted out the sun. But the future…it was so bright.” - Will Thompson. (Excerpt From: Ashley, Katie. “Nets and Lies.” iBooks. This material may be protected by copyright).
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