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Leaving Green Island (2000)

by Em Barrett(Favorite Author)

4.07 of 5 Votes: 3

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English

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review 1: I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.This is a wonderful contemporary romance that I really enjoyed.Brecken Pereira is a wonderful character. She is an Associate in a law firm, and engaged to a doctor. I liked her very much, but wanted to shake her every so often, because she made some questionable decisions. She has some wonderful friends and roommates that keep her grounded, but the sudden return of an ex has her completely confused.Reed Whalen is a jerk! Sorry, but that's my opinion. He may be gorgeous, rich and charming, and have an excuse for his terrible behaviour, but still, if I was Brecken, I don't think I would have been as forgiving. However, he does have a few redeeming qualities.This is a book that I would not normally ... morehave picked up if I had seen it on the bookshelf in a store; not that I've got anything against the cover, or even the blurb for that matter. However, when the author offered me the chance to read this book, I thought it would be a nice change from my usual choice of paranormal romances. I'm glad I took the chance, because this story was a delight to read. The story is told from Brecken's point of view and has several flash backs to her teen's, when she spent two magical summers on Green Island, with her best friend Lizzy. This is not only a romance, but a story of friendship. I loved seeing Brecken and Lizzy's friendship blossom and grow. They are both lucky to still be friends into adulthood. Not many friendships survive beyond school, but these two are more like sisters than friends. I also liked the dynamics between Brecken and her other friends too, especially her other roommate, Nevada, who comes across as a bit ditzy at times, but she is actually very shrewd and insightful. However, it is the relationship between Brecken and Reed that intrigued me. I was a little disappointed not to get to know Reed a little more. He was certainly enigmatic as a teenager, which added to his charm, but I wanted to get to know the older version better. Sadly, this was not to be. However, the author did a fantastic job in bringing their story, and all the characters to life. The only problem is that I cannot relate to this book as others may do. I was not exactly the most popular child, nor the most social party animal (and I'm still not), so I never really had a "first love" experience as such. Sad, but true. Nevertheless, I felt for Brecken when her heart was broken. The end of the story left me feeling very happy.Em Barrett has written a heart-warming coming of age tale full of romance, love and friendship that touched me deeply. I loved her writing style which, although not as fast paced as some books I have read in the past, flowed wonderfully from scene to scene. This is the first book I have read by this author, but I don't think it will be the last.I do not recommend this book to younger readers due to the mention of underage drinking and smoking, as well as some bad language and scenes of a sexual nature (not explicit). I do, however, recommend this book if you love Chick Lit or contemporary romances. - Lynn Worton
review 2: I did not want to leave Green Island. This was a wonderful read! It was a well thought out story that really made you feel that you were right there with Brecken. The story has a lot of reflections back to previous periods within the evolution of Brecken's life, and sometimes this style can be hard to follow, but in this instance it was done extremely well. I could not wait to see what would happen next and I would actually love to know what happens after the dedication page. Love it! Highly recommend. less

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