What do you think?
Rate this book
Better
Aubrey is embarking on a bucket-list trip around the world, the last wish of her Aunt Ally. It was supposed to be the trip Ally would have taken when she got better. Now, it's just a chance for Aubrey to say good-bye.
Adam escapes in his solo trips overseas, working just enough to fund the next one. When the opportunity to circle the globe falls in his lap, he can't refuse. The only catch is that he won't be traveling alone this time.
Unable to hide from each other, Adam's overprotective nature thwarts Aubrey's desire to find her own way. Can they move past initial assumptions to find something better?
Adam escapes in his solo trips overseas, working just enough to fund the next one. When the opportunity to circle the globe falls in his lap, he can't refuse. The only catch is that he won't be traveling alone this time.
Unable to hide from each other, Adam's overprotective nature thwarts Aubrey's desire to find her own way. Can they move past initial assumptions to find something better?
Mass Market Paperback
First published February 17, 2014
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
October 29, 2020
*Group Read with Reading Brings Us Together*
I really liked this story. It was so sweet and enlightening. Audrey just lost her aunt and she’s trying to fulfill her aunt’s bucket list. But this trip was a subtle way for her aunt to remind Audrey that there is a huge world out there to explore and there is still life left to be lived.
I loved her tour guide Adam and how he subtly challenged her to see things, try foods and enjoy herself. We didn’t get to know that much about Adam but I guess this story was about Aubrey’s growth and epiphany about life.
It was written in a very sweet and simple way without being overly angsty. It was like following a young woman as she became self aware and confident. She pushed in despite her trepidation about certain events. I was proud of her and her parents for giving her room to find her path. It was enlightening for me as a reader.
I really liked this story. It was so sweet and enlightening. Audrey just lost her aunt and she’s trying to fulfill her aunt’s bucket list. But this trip was a subtle way for her aunt to remind Audrey that there is a huge world out there to explore and there is still life left to be lived.
I loved her tour guide Adam and how he subtly challenged her to see things, try foods and enjoy herself. We didn’t get to know that much about Adam but I guess this story was about Aubrey’s growth and epiphany about life.
It was written in a very sweet and simple way without being overly angsty. It was like following a young woman as she became self aware and confident. She pushed in despite her trepidation about certain events. I was proud of her and her parents for giving her room to find her path. It was enlightening for me as a reader.
January 13, 2014
Moving, emotional and immensely uplighting.
This is Carey's finest work to date. She really outdid herself writing Better, and from the very first page, you can see her soul shining through. This is a book that pulls you in from the beginning, gutting your heart and piecing it back together again bit by bit.
From the bitter ashes of loss, two people discover love and it is a beautiful thing to watch unfold.
This is Carey's finest work to date. She really outdid herself writing Better, and from the very first page, you can see her soul shining through. This is a book that pulls you in from the beginning, gutting your heart and piecing it back together again bit by bit.
From the bitter ashes of loss, two people discover love and it is a beautiful thing to watch unfold.
February 24, 2014
WOW!!! That's the only word I can conjure up after finishing this inspirational and phenomenal story. Carey Heywood has done it again this story tug at my heart strings in so many ways, I cried tears of joy and tears of sadness I also laughed and smiled and this is all thanks to the wonderful Mrs. Carey Heywood. I'm so happy Carey Heywood had the courage to release this amazing story and the fact that this story is inspired by true events is even more powerful. By reading this story you can feel that Carey Heywood definitely put her all in this master piece of a story, I believe this story is one of her best work yet.
Better is a story of self discovery and recovering and coping from a devastating lost, of finally saying your last goodbye to someone you loved and will always have close to your heart. This story is also about finding love in a place you last expected to find love. Is also about love finding you especially when you weren't looking for love. This book is definitely very inspirational and will teach you a very important lesson about the meaning of life. The heroine Aubrey is dealing with the recent loss of her aunt, whom she was extremely close too. While Aubrey is coping with her loss she finds out that her aunt left her money from her life insurance and with this money she must go an experience life. She must travel the world and find her self once and for all. Aubrey's parents even though are happy with Aubrey's decision to go and accomplish her aunts dying wish they don't like the fact that Aubrey will be traveling the world by her self , so her father has an idea and decides to fund a ticket for Adam, Adam is a photographer who has travelled a lot through out his own life and can serve has a guide and keep Aubrey from trouble.
Aubrey and Adam were such great characters and perfect for each other even though they started at the wrong foot. While Adam thought Aubrey was a spoiled brat and Aubrey thought Adam was an ass you can definitely see their wasn't no insta-love connection in the beginning. They were attracted to each other physically ,but emotionally they thought they were horrible together. But through there travels around the world you start seeing the two finally opening up to one another and becoming friends. Adam is quite protective of Aubrey which drives her crazy because she hates feeling like a child ,but Aubrey soon realizes why Adam is the way he is. The friendship blossoms towards something more and something real. It was amazing to see the transitions from perfect strangers to friends , then to lovers I loved it.
Another amazing thing about this story was the traveling and how descriptive Carey was by describing each destination so precisely that I felt like I was the one traveling the world. I found myself googling every picture through out Aubrey's amazing journey. This book really made me want to travel to Africa and see Victoria Fall and travel to China and see the Great Wall. The locations were amazing. Aubrey grew a lot through her journey of self discovery. Gone was the broken girl that didn't know where to go or how to begin her life. Gone was the girl that never fell in love and gone was the girl who was undeceive gone was the girl that was lost and because of Adam and her aunt was finally found. Aubrey finally grew up and became the woman she was meant to become.
I give this book 5 inspirational and emotional stars. This book was so amazing and I recommend everyone to experience this amazing story of courage , bravery, love, grieve, lost, inspiration, acceptance and most importantly self discovery. This book will keep you on your toes your imagination will run wild with all the places Aubrey travels and your heart will break every time Aubrey says good bye to her aunt. Your heart will finally sore as well when Adam and Aubrey finally find love and accept each other for who they are. This book is a must read. Keep your tissues handing you will definitely need them.
February 9, 2014
I got a chance to read this book early as long as I give an honest review.
So here it goes.
Carey Heywood this book was simply amazing and I adore this book. I loved it from beginning to end.
Aubrey has my heart! I felt heart pain or sorrow through the whole book. I cried throughout this story and my heart broke right along with her
The ending made me smile so freaking big. Then I read the very last part of this book and I sobbed like a baby. I literally climbed on my boyfriends lap amd cried.
THIS BOOK IS NOW ON MY TOP 5 BOOK LIST.
Thank you for writing this amazing story.
Please everyone and anyone!!!!!!
Read this book, you will love it!
So here it goes.
Carey Heywood this book was simply amazing and I adore this book. I loved it from beginning to end.
Aubrey has my heart! I felt heart pain or sorrow through the whole book. I cried throughout this story and my heart broke right along with her
The ending made me smile so freaking big. Then I read the very last part of this book and I sobbed like a baby. I literally climbed on my boyfriends lap amd cried.
THIS BOOK IS NOW ON MY TOP 5 BOOK LIST.
Thank you for writing this amazing story.
Please everyone and anyone!!!!!!
Read this book, you will love it!
February 25, 2014
This book is simply beautiful. It's soulful and sweet, with the right balance of romance, good plot and one of my favorite subjects ever, travel. If you like stories about road trips, you'll enjoy this one. If you ever lost someone to cancer, Better will make you cry, but not the ugly and desperate tears, but tears of understanding and hope.
March 20, 2014
Beautifully sad and yet inspiring story. If you have ever lost a friend or love one way to early in life you will relate in a really emotional way, I know I did.
I felt so many emotions along with Aubrey and her family. And sweetie Adam. I would love to have heard some internal dialogue from his pov.
I blew through this book on my lazy Sunday, and enjoyed every minute of it.
I felt so many emotions along with Aubrey and her family. And sweetie Adam. I would love to have heard some internal dialogue from his pov.
I blew through this book on my lazy Sunday, and enjoyed every minute of it.
February 14, 2014
*I was given an ARC for an honest review*
I don't think Carey Heywood got the author memo about not kicking her reader in the heart so early on in a story; that or she just said, "Screw it!" I cried my sweet ‘lil hazel eyes out the entire first two chapters until they were red rimmed and puffy and I was surrounded by crumpled tissues. But you know what? It makes me LOVE Carey that much more.
***
Aubrey has given up so much to stay home and help her parents care for her Aunt Ally, who has been battling cancer. Together they have formed an unbreakable bond and love…like sisters. To pass the time and focus on the future the family created a "better board" for all the places Ally will go once she is better. A grim prognosis leaves the family heartbroken as they face the fact they have but months left with Ally. Nothing in life is certain and just a short time after the news, Ally is gone...and that's where Aubrey's journey begins.
In a surprise twist, Ally has left Aubrey enough money to take the trip she had dreamed up on her better board. Knowing how much Aubrey gave up to help at home she wants her to dust off and spread her wings...to live. Aubrey isn't just shocked by this gift, she's excited and terrified all at the same time. Although her parents agree she should take the trip, her father has a stipulation...she can't travel alone. Through a co-worker, he sets up a guide/chaperone for Aubrey to travel with, his co-worker's son, Adam. Adam is a photographer and has traveled all over so her father thinks he's the perfect choice as a guide for Aubrey.
When Adam and Aubrey first meet neither seems to make the best first impression on the other. This inevitably worries Aubrey because their trip is two months long. It doesn't take long for the two to butt heads...Aubrey wants adventure and the freedom to heal from the loss of Ally, a way to say goodbye and find herself; and Adam feels responsible for her, not wanting to let her out of his sight. As they continue on and truths about their pasts come out they begin a friendship that turns into love. It turns out the two young travelers have a lot more in common than they each initially thought. They have both experienced great loss.
I'm not even sure where to begin in what an incredibly beautiful story this was. I've read two other books by Carey that I enjoyed immensely but this was on a different level. Her voice is so strong that the whole time I kept wondering to myself if she was drawing on her own experiences with loss and healing. As you will discover, after the ending, she was indeed.
Every place Adam and Aubrey stopped, Aubrey would find a very special way to let go and remember a little bit about Ally. It was touching and heartbreaking all at the same time. When Adam finally discovers the real reason behind Aubrey's trip it's like everything falls into place with them. A bond, a respect, an understanding happens between them that doesn't always need words. This is one of those books you'll cry your way through. Not just sad tears but happy ones; when you think you're done...well simply, you're not!
As much as the story itself is beautiful so are the backdrops...Asia, India, Australia, Africa and the Caribbean. I think my bucket list just got a whole lot bigger.
I truly loved Adam and Aubrey's story. I look forward to whatever Carey has coming for her readers next. Go one-click Better, I dare you not to fall in love with it too.
I don't think Carey Heywood got the author memo about not kicking her reader in the heart so early on in a story; that or she just said, "Screw it!" I cried my sweet ‘lil hazel eyes out the entire first two chapters until they were red rimmed and puffy and I was surrounded by crumpled tissues. But you know what? It makes me LOVE Carey that much more.
***
Aubrey has given up so much to stay home and help her parents care for her Aunt Ally, who has been battling cancer. Together they have formed an unbreakable bond and love…like sisters. To pass the time and focus on the future the family created a "better board" for all the places Ally will go once she is better. A grim prognosis leaves the family heartbroken as they face the fact they have but months left with Ally. Nothing in life is certain and just a short time after the news, Ally is gone...and that's where Aubrey's journey begins.
In a surprise twist, Ally has left Aubrey enough money to take the trip she had dreamed up on her better board. Knowing how much Aubrey gave up to help at home she wants her to dust off and spread her wings...to live. Aubrey isn't just shocked by this gift, she's excited and terrified all at the same time. Although her parents agree she should take the trip, her father has a stipulation...she can't travel alone. Through a co-worker, he sets up a guide/chaperone for Aubrey to travel with, his co-worker's son, Adam. Adam is a photographer and has traveled all over so her father thinks he's the perfect choice as a guide for Aubrey.
When Adam and Aubrey first meet neither seems to make the best first impression on the other. This inevitably worries Aubrey because their trip is two months long. It doesn't take long for the two to butt heads...Aubrey wants adventure and the freedom to heal from the loss of Ally, a way to say goodbye and find herself; and Adam feels responsible for her, not wanting to let her out of his sight. As they continue on and truths about their pasts come out they begin a friendship that turns into love. It turns out the two young travelers have a lot more in common than they each initially thought. They have both experienced great loss.
I'm not even sure where to begin in what an incredibly beautiful story this was. I've read two other books by Carey that I enjoyed immensely but this was on a different level. Her voice is so strong that the whole time I kept wondering to myself if she was drawing on her own experiences with loss and healing. As you will discover, after the ending, she was indeed.
Every place Adam and Aubrey stopped, Aubrey would find a very special way to let go and remember a little bit about Ally. It was touching and heartbreaking all at the same time. When Adam finally discovers the real reason behind Aubrey's trip it's like everything falls into place with them. A bond, a respect, an understanding happens between them that doesn't always need words. This is one of those books you'll cry your way through. Not just sad tears but happy ones; when you think you're done...well simply, you're not!
As much as the story itself is beautiful so are the backdrops...Asia, India, Australia, Africa and the Caribbean. I think my bucket list just got a whole lot bigger.
I truly loved Adam and Aubrey's story. I look forward to whatever Carey has coming for her readers next. Go one-click Better, I dare you not to fall in love with it too.
July 9, 2015
Love is too weak of a word for what I feel for this book!!
My Review: 5 Stars
Every time I read a new book from Carey Heywood I have the same reaction. "Wow, this one is even better than the last one." This is more than true for this book. I whole heartily feel that this is her best work yet.
You can feel that she put her heart and soul into writing it, and in turn it will penetrate yours with a force you're not expecting.
I don't want to give the impression that this is an overly angsty or emotionally devastating story but it will definitely tug on your heart strings in a good way. It was so good that I, in fact, read my ARC twice already!!
Aubrey and Adam were such great characters and more than perfect for each other. They had an instant attraction but there was no insta-love here. Almost immediately you could see Adam's jealous side but when he cornered Aubrey about the attraction between them it was pretty hot and sad all at the same time.
While Aubrey is dealing with the recent loss of her aunt, whom she was really close to, she's trying to honor her aunt's memory by really experiencing as much as possible. She feels like Adam is babysitting her and she tries to sneak away as much as possible to create those memorable experiences that she knows Adam won't allow her to do. She doesn't realize that Adam is dealing with a loss of his own and that every time she sneaks away it breaks him a little bit more.
She's insecure and he's overprotective and as a couple they just work.
I cried a few times throughout the story, but really lost it when you get to the end and Carey Heywood explains that this book was inspired by real life events. Then I bawled. It made the story that much more special and awesome to me, if that was even possible.
* I received an ARC from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review
My Review: 5 Stars
Every time I read a new book from Carey Heywood I have the same reaction. "Wow, this one is even better than the last one." This is more than true for this book. I whole heartily feel that this is her best work yet.
You can feel that she put her heart and soul into writing it, and in turn it will penetrate yours with a force you're not expecting.
I don't want to give the impression that this is an overly angsty or emotionally devastating story but it will definitely tug on your heart strings in a good way. It was so good that I, in fact, read my ARC twice already!!
Aubrey and Adam were such great characters and more than perfect for each other. They had an instant attraction but there was no insta-love here. Almost immediately you could see Adam's jealous side but when he cornered Aubrey about the attraction between them it was pretty hot and sad all at the same time.
While Aubrey is dealing with the recent loss of her aunt, whom she was really close to, she's trying to honor her aunt's memory by really experiencing as much as possible. She feels like Adam is babysitting her and she tries to sneak away as much as possible to create those memorable experiences that she knows Adam won't allow her to do. She doesn't realize that Adam is dealing with a loss of his own and that every time she sneaks away it breaks him a little bit more.
She's insecure and he's overprotective and as a couple they just work.
I cried a few times throughout the story, but really lost it when you get to the end and Carey Heywood explains that this book was inspired by real life events. Then I bawled. It made the story that much more special and awesome to me, if that was even possible.
* I received an ARC from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review
December 30, 2013
Better is a heart-breaking story of loss and sacrifice - a story in a world of emotion all its own.
I want to call Aubrey sheltered, but that's not the right word. She's changed her life plan to help her family deal with her Aunt Ally's illness. Aubrey willingly sacrifices living on her own and even finishing school so that she can be there for her aunt and best friend. Ally's hope is that when she gets better, she'll be able to travel the world. Her "better board" hangs in her room as a constant reminder of the life she'll have when she's healed. Sadly, that time never comes for Ally.
Aubrey is too determined, however, to let her aunt Ally's dreams die along with her body. She vows to take Ally's trip around the world, scattering Ally's ashes at each stop. Those are perhaps the most poignant and tear-jerking moments of the book. It's in those quiet moments of mourning that we see Aubrey's true strength shine.
Of course Aubrey is not alone. Her travel companion, Adam (the son of Aubrey's father's business associate) is used to traveling alone, and, at first is none too pleased to have to watch over Aubrey. While the main purpose of this book is to follow Aubrey on her aunt's "better journey", you can't help but be sucked in to the angsty and emotional relationship that develops with Adam. His kindness is hidden behind his protectiveness and once it comes out, I dare you not to fall in love with him.
This is a book that you do not want to miss. Heywood weaves an emotional tale for which you'll need a box of tissues and a bottle of wine. You will forever be a better person for having read it.
I want to call Aubrey sheltered, but that's not the right word. She's changed her life plan to help her family deal with her Aunt Ally's illness. Aubrey willingly sacrifices living on her own and even finishing school so that she can be there for her aunt and best friend. Ally's hope is that when she gets better, she'll be able to travel the world. Her "better board" hangs in her room as a constant reminder of the life she'll have when she's healed. Sadly, that time never comes for Ally.
Aubrey is too determined, however, to let her aunt Ally's dreams die along with her body. She vows to take Ally's trip around the world, scattering Ally's ashes at each stop. Those are perhaps the most poignant and tear-jerking moments of the book. It's in those quiet moments of mourning that we see Aubrey's true strength shine.
Of course Aubrey is not alone. Her travel companion, Adam (the son of Aubrey's father's business associate) is used to traveling alone, and, at first is none too pleased to have to watch over Aubrey. While the main purpose of this book is to follow Aubrey on her aunt's "better journey", you can't help but be sucked in to the angsty and emotional relationship that develops with Adam. His kindness is hidden behind his protectiveness and once it comes out, I dare you not to fall in love with him.
This is a book that you do not want to miss. Heywood weaves an emotional tale for which you'll need a box of tissues and a bottle of wine. You will forever be a better person for having read it.
March 13, 2014
I think cancer is something that has touched all of our lives at one point or another. Whether it be us personally, a family member or a friend. It's inescapable, it's heartbreaking and it's financially devastating. I knew the moment I read this synopsis this book was going to be an emotional read. And it was. Aubrey's character was so three dimensional and well written. I could totally imagine her being in each and every circumstance of this book.
To lose a loved one is impossibly hard to deal with. To have that lost loved one bestow such a great gift upon you at their passing is truly beautiful. Aubrey's aunt just wanted to get Better and see the world. When that wasn't possible she sent Aubrey to do it in her place. Aubrey has been very sheltered, dropping out of school to help her parents care for her ailing aunt. This trip was meant for her to be able to rediscover herself. What she wasn't planning on was her impossibly sexy tour guide, Adam.
The chemistry and dialogue between the two main characters was awesome! The descriptions and each location of Aubrey's trip made me feel as if I was there myself. This book is beautifully written, poignant and parts literally stole my breath and made my heart hurt.
I know a lot of us tend to skip reading the afterword or the acknowledgements in the back of books, but please take a few moments to read Carey Heywood's Cancer and Harry Potter after Aubrey's journey ends. It was just as beautiful as the rest of the book was.
I highly recommend this book and it gets 6 huge stars from me.
~ Review by Erin
To lose a loved one is impossibly hard to deal with. To have that lost loved one bestow such a great gift upon you at their passing is truly beautiful. Aubrey's aunt just wanted to get Better and see the world. When that wasn't possible she sent Aubrey to do it in her place. Aubrey has been very sheltered, dropping out of school to help her parents care for her ailing aunt. This trip was meant for her to be able to rediscover herself. What she wasn't planning on was her impossibly sexy tour guide, Adam.
The chemistry and dialogue between the two main characters was awesome! The descriptions and each location of Aubrey's trip made me feel as if I was there myself. This book is beautifully written, poignant and parts literally stole my breath and made my heart hurt.
I know a lot of us tend to skip reading the afterword or the acknowledgements in the back of books, but please take a few moments to read Carey Heywood's Cancer and Harry Potter after Aubrey's journey ends. It was just as beautiful as the rest of the book was.
I highly recommend this book and it gets 6 huge stars from me.
~ Review by Erin
March 13, 2014
This is a truly lovely story that I had to read in one sitting. It's one of them books that you find yourself glued to until the last page.
Aubrey is devastated after the death of her aunt. She decided to fulfil her aunts wish by travelling the world. This is where Adam enters. He is asked to accompany Aubrey on her trip. He also has had heartache in his life.
This is their emotional story of heart ache and loss. It's an emotional story that will have you gripped. With such great detail from the author I felt I was travelling with these two.
Note from author is also emotional. Just when I thought I could breath properly I read the note:(
Highly recommend this fantastic story.
Aubrey is devastated after the death of her aunt. She decided to fulfil her aunts wish by travelling the world. This is where Adam enters. He is asked to accompany Aubrey on her trip. He also has had heartache in his life.
This is their emotional story of heart ache and loss. It's an emotional story that will have you gripped. With such great detail from the author I felt I was travelling with these two.
Note from author is also emotional. Just when I thought I could breath properly I read the note:(
Highly recommend this fantastic story.
Read
June 24, 2014DNF at 30%
I'm sure this is a really sweet story. I promise I'm not cold-hearted, I have feelings. This just didn't work. I thought it was written very poorly. I couldn't connect with the characters and it felt like I was being told the story. I love road trip stories but I didn't even make it to the road trip part of this book. It just fell flat. Also, I just want to say that it's okay to use contractions.
It looks like I'm the only one who didn't care for this. I'd say that there's probably something wrong with me and that this could be one of those "it's not you, it's me" situations but that would be a lie...
October 28, 2013
Review to come closer to publication but let me say, ladies mark your calendars - this is a real tear-jerking, heart-string pulling, emotion-coaster!!
March 8, 2014
Really sweet, uplifting, and romantic! When I lose someone I love dearly, this is exactly how I'd like to honor their memory!
May 29, 2017
This book is one of the best I have ever read! It makes me want to go on a trip. Reading helped thinking about my grandparents without crying. It helps to remind me of the good things before I lost them. This book was an amazing read. It was a harder topic that Carey made in to an amazing book.
Want to read
November 14, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/14/2020)! 🎁
August 18, 2014
Where do I start with this? I think a list will keep me from rambling, so here goes...
The Good:
-I really was moved by Ally at the beginning of the book. It was emotional and realistic and I cried for my own loss due to the vividness of the situation described in these first few chapters.
-Aubrey's parents sounded pretty spectacular.
-Adam was not the most vocal of characters, and even when he was being kind of a jerk, he sounded like a good guy. However, I would have liked to know how he could afford these long trips normally, or how he could take so much time off work. Still not clear on what he did.
That's about all I have with the good, unfortunately.
The Not so Good or maybe it should be The Downright Awful:
-Aubrey
-the delivery/writing
This book is told from Aubrey's POV and I never felt her voice matured at all. She started off sounding incredibly immature for someone who was supposed to be 23-24 years old. It was really quite annoying to read. I realize she stopped her life to help care for her Aunt, but her voice didn't even sound old enough to be in high school, let alone that of someone who has taken college courses, or who should technically be on her own. I mean, did she just sit in her parent's house for 6 years while her Aunt was sick? Most people tend to mature in light of a loved one's illness, it's as if Aubrey regressed rather than matured. Then add to it the way the book was written was riddled with choppy, short sentences and it sounded very juvenile. I was reminded of a review I read on Goodreads for a different book (I think) where the reviewer said the book they were reviewing sounded like Dr Seuss wrote it. THAT is exactly what I thought about this book. I miss Ally. I do not like missing Ally, I do not like it, Aubrey I am. There really was not a flow to the book that seemed fluid and easy. Even the transition of Aubrey and Adam from friends to more was abrupt and not ever discussed by the characters once it started. They just...were. And speaking of that, hearing some of the intimate actions creeped me the hell out because I couldn't get this petulant 12-year old sounding girl out of my head, so, kind of ewwwwww factor there. And she would often sound like a dreamy pre-teen when she thought about Adam or their intimate time.
Oh, and don't even get me started about her sneaking away from Adam early on in their trip. What a bitch. She was being a baby about things and instead of talking to Adam about her ideas, she enlisted the help of complete strangers while in foreign countries! Especially the first little escape act. Tattoos are usually very intimate and personal, and going to a reputable and safe parlor is essential. To trust some guy who approached her at a bar (and she talked to for all of 30sec) to take her to get her first tattoo was really outlandish, not to mention dangerous and again reinforced the child-like personality of Aubrey. I realize this is a book, but to doing something like this in a foreign country is so, so risky. Both of the things she snuck away from Adam to do were extremely risky to do and trust in a stranger to help you with, I thought it very rude and childish of her to do to Adam.
The ending of the book was nice, but really quick and just was. No depth at all, it almost seemed like the author was bored with her own story or something and just blandly threw together the last couple of chapters and the epilogue.
Oh, and the use of the charm bracelet? I am sure EL James didn't invent that, but she certainly made it a popular plot item in FSoG. I find it difficult not to think authors who use it in their books need to come up with other objects for couples within their stories to use to document their relationship or, in this case, a trip.
This was probably 1.5-stars, I just couldn't give 2-stars which I use as my it was ok rating. Had I still been able to return this I would have DNFd at around 30%, returned it and moved on. Since returning was no longer an option, I decided to continue on and see if things improved. Better just never got 'better' enough for me to even think it was ok, it really was not a book for me.
The Good:
-I really was moved by Ally at the beginning of the book. It was emotional and realistic and I cried for my own loss due to the vividness of the situation described in these first few chapters.
-Aubrey's parents sounded pretty spectacular.
-Adam was not the most vocal of characters, and even when he was being kind of a jerk, he sounded like a good guy. However, I would have liked to know how he could afford these long trips normally, or how he could take so much time off work. Still not clear on what he did.
That's about all I have with the good, unfortunately.
The Not so Good or maybe it should be The Downright Awful:
-Aubrey
-the delivery/writing
This book is told from Aubrey's POV and I never felt her voice matured at all. She started off sounding incredibly immature for someone who was supposed to be 23-24 years old. It was really quite annoying to read. I realize she stopped her life to help care for her Aunt, but her voice didn't even sound old enough to be in high school, let alone that of someone who has taken college courses, or who should technically be on her own. I mean, did she just sit in her parent's house for 6 years while her Aunt was sick? Most people tend to mature in light of a loved one's illness, it's as if Aubrey regressed rather than matured. Then add to it the way the book was written was riddled with choppy, short sentences and it sounded very juvenile. I was reminded of a review I read on Goodreads for a different book (I think) where the reviewer said the book they were reviewing sounded like Dr Seuss wrote it. THAT is exactly what I thought about this book. I miss Ally. I do not like missing Ally, I do not like it, Aubrey I am. There really was not a flow to the book that seemed fluid and easy. Even the transition of Aubrey and Adam from friends to more was abrupt and not ever discussed by the characters once it started. They just...were. And speaking of that, hearing some of the intimate actions creeped me the hell out because I couldn't get this petulant 12-year old sounding girl out of my head, so, kind of ewwwwww factor there. And she would often sound like a dreamy pre-teen when she thought about Adam or their intimate time.
Oh, and don't even get me started about her sneaking away from Adam early on in their trip. What a bitch. She was being a baby about things and instead of talking to Adam about her ideas, she enlisted the help of complete strangers while in foreign countries! Especially the first little escape act. Tattoos are usually very intimate and personal, and going to a reputable and safe parlor is essential. To trust some guy who approached her at a bar (and she talked to for all of 30sec) to take her to get her first tattoo was really outlandish, not to mention dangerous and again reinforced the child-like personality of Aubrey. I realize this is a book, but to doing something like this in a foreign country is so, so risky. Both of the things she snuck away from Adam to do were extremely risky to do and trust in a stranger to help you with, I thought it very rude and childish of her to do to Adam.
The ending of the book was nice, but really quick and just was. No depth at all, it almost seemed like the author was bored with her own story or something and just blandly threw together the last couple of chapters and the epilogue.
Oh, and the use of the charm bracelet? I am sure EL James didn't invent that, but she certainly made it a popular plot item in FSoG. I find it difficult not to think authors who use it in their books need to come up with other objects for couples within their stories to use to document their relationship or, in this case, a trip.
This was probably 1.5-stars, I just couldn't give 2-stars which I use as my it was ok rating. Had I still been able to return this I would have DNFd at around 30%, returned it and moved on. Since returning was no longer an option, I decided to continue on and see if things improved. Better just never got 'better' enough for me to even think it was ok, it really was not a book for me.
March 5, 2014
I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review.
I gave this book 5 stars.
If you have not read Carey's work then you are missing out.
She is an amazingly beautiful talented soul.
This is Aubrey and Adam's story. And I feel like it is Aunt Ally's too.
Aubrey and her family found out when she was 17 that her aunt Ally had cancer. She had an acceptance letter from Yale and when her family found out her aunt was sick she put all her dreams on hold and went to the local community college instead. She stayed home and helped her mom and dad take care of her aunt. Her aunt was everything to her, she could talk to her and she knew that aunt Ally would always understand and help her. 6 years later her aunt dies, it leaves her family devastated and they don't cope very well. Her aunt had a better board in her room, it was a board of all the places that she wanted to visit once she got better. That never happened. But in Ally's will she asked that Aubrey go on this trip instead. This is a tough decision for her, because her aunt asked her to go without her mom or her dad. Ally is scared, but her aunt wanted her to be able to spread her wings and fly and become the person that she was always meant to be. She decides to go and to make them feel better her dad gets a friends son to go with her, his name is Adam.
Adam is a photographer and he has traveled to all these places that Ally is going to and has agreed to be there and protect her if anything bad should happen. Adam assumes that Aubrey is a spoiled child. And he makes assumptions about her that aren't true. He is rude at first and not really that nice, but still Aubrey feels an attraction to him. Once they get on their way he starts to realize she is not the person he thought she was. Is it to late? Aubrey feels a connection to Adam, but half the time he is not nice and says things that just upset her. Once she sees that he is a nice guy can they get past all the things they assumed about each other?
This was a beautiful story. It made my heart hurt. Aubrey lost so much and I related to her pain on a very personal level. I lost my mom to cancer and it was so similar to Aubrey's situation it was scary. So I understood all the little things that she did on her trip for her Aunt. Aubrey needs this so she can heal and realize that even when you lose someone that you love so much that life does go on and you can be happy again. I don't think the trip was all what Aubrey thought it was going to be, but it was still a growing experience for her and she came out stronger and wiser then when it started. Adam gives her just what she needs even if she doesn't know what she needs. He is just as changed by her as she is by him. And I think these two need each other to be complete in life. Thank you Carey for such a beautiful heartfelt story. This journey that these two went on was amazing. And I am so glad I was a part of it. I look forward to reading anything that you write and you are one of those Authors that I don't even look at the cover or the Synopsis, I just one click it. Because my life would be a little duller without your books in them. I look forward to reading what you have coming up next! I am so excited! <3
February 17, 2014
THREE THINGS YOU WILL NEED TO GET THROUGH BETTER: 1. TISSUES 2. A LITTLE BOOZE 3. CHOCOLATE
I WARNED YOU!
Sometimes in life things happen for a reason, during that time we don't know why, but we will one day. For Aubrey, it started with her aunts Better Board.
Life is hard, unfriendly and just plain cruel. Aubrey has learned that by watching her aunt, best friend, Ally, slowly slip away from Leiomyosarcoma, for the past few years. Aubrey gave up her dreams to help her family with her aunt, but during that time, Aubrey has lost who she is, or maybe she's never really knew who she was.
With one last wish, Ally will make sure that Aubrey finds her self and have some fun while at it. It all starts with the Better Board. A cork board that has pictures of amazing places that Ally wanted to visit when she was better, but now it's Aubrey's turn to take the adventure.
"I can't go around the world."- Aubrey
Going around the world on her own is out of Aubrey's comfort zone. Hell, she's twenty something and still living with her loving, but overprotective parents. With her dad's bright idea of having Adam, a well educated traveler, who she's never met, travel with Aubrey... Nothing creepy about that, right.
Traveling around the world, stopping at the places on the Better Board, Aubrey will let her aunt go ashes at a time, and maybe heal her heart a little in the process.
Being with Adam nonstop for months, it's only a matter of time to start seeing him as something more than her baby sitter, but if they cross that line will it ruin their trip?
"I liked smelling you as I fell asleep."- Adam
Maybe Aunt Ally knew what she was doing when she made her final wishes, sending Aubrey on a trip of a life time, she'll grow into the woman she needs to be and maybe find love on the way and figure out what she wants in life.
"You can be my home."- Aubrey
With heart break and loss, healing and love will find Aubrey.
Better is an emotional journey that us readers will enjoy, just make sure you have a few tissues handy. You'll need them! This book touched on some stuff that is close to home, which made the book even better, and made me shed a few more tears. I loved seeing Aubrey grow into the woman she was meant to be, a little at a time with each new country. This book is about heart ache, lose, healing, love and finding yourself, and that makes an excellent read. The characters are well written and each new one you met, you will enjoy. The story is a tearjerker, but all great ones are. The author sure knows how to pull us readers in and not let us go till the very end. I can't wait to read more of Carey Heywood's books, they are all going on my TBR list. I think what makes this book a little more sweeter and sadder is the fact that it's based on true events. Wow, amazing! Get ready for a emotional ride, my friends. I give Better 5 STARS!!!
I WARNED YOU!
Sometimes in life things happen for a reason, during that time we don't know why, but we will one day. For Aubrey, it started with her aunts Better Board.
Life is hard, unfriendly and just plain cruel. Aubrey has learned that by watching her aunt, best friend, Ally, slowly slip away from Leiomyosarcoma, for the past few years. Aubrey gave up her dreams to help her family with her aunt, but during that time, Aubrey has lost who she is, or maybe she's never really knew who she was.
With one last wish, Ally will make sure that Aubrey finds her self and have some fun while at it. It all starts with the Better Board. A cork board that has pictures of amazing places that Ally wanted to visit when she was better, but now it's Aubrey's turn to take the adventure.
"I can't go around the world."- Aubrey
Going around the world on her own is out of Aubrey's comfort zone. Hell, she's twenty something and still living with her loving, but overprotective parents. With her dad's bright idea of having Adam, a well educated traveler, who she's never met, travel with Aubrey... Nothing creepy about that, right.
Traveling around the world, stopping at the places on the Better Board, Aubrey will let her aunt go ashes at a time, and maybe heal her heart a little in the process.
Being with Adam nonstop for months, it's only a matter of time to start seeing him as something more than her baby sitter, but if they cross that line will it ruin their trip?
"I liked smelling you as I fell asleep."- Adam
Maybe Aunt Ally knew what she was doing when she made her final wishes, sending Aubrey on a trip of a life time, she'll grow into the woman she needs to be and maybe find love on the way and figure out what she wants in life.
"You can be my home."- Aubrey
With heart break and loss, healing and love will find Aubrey.
Better is an emotional journey that us readers will enjoy, just make sure you have a few tissues handy. You'll need them! This book touched on some stuff that is close to home, which made the book even better, and made me shed a few more tears. I loved seeing Aubrey grow into the woman she was meant to be, a little at a time with each new country. This book is about heart ache, lose, healing, love and finding yourself, and that makes an excellent read. The characters are well written and each new one you met, you will enjoy. The story is a tearjerker, but all great ones are. The author sure knows how to pull us readers in and not let us go till the very end. I can't wait to read more of Carey Heywood's books, they are all going on my TBR list. I think what makes this book a little more sweeter and sadder is the fact that it's based on true events. Wow, amazing! Get ready for a emotional ride, my friends. I give Better 5 STARS!!!
September 12, 2016
4 SWEET SOULFUL STARS!
This is a beautiful and inspiring story about self discovery, grieving, and hope. I really enjoyed reading this book, it was very touching yet it has some great funny moments. I loved the combination!
Aubrey has a very special bond with her aunt Ally as they have loved each other like sisters all her life. So when Aubrey loses her aunt due to cancer she's left completely heartbroken and lost without her best friend. But it's her dear best friend who sends her on a trip of a lifetime to discover herself. The only problem with this promising trip is that Aubrey is not going alone. She's persuaded by her parents to travel with a companion...
At first the idea of being stuck with a stranger on her trip sounds like a very bad idea to Aubrey but once she meets Adam she's not so sure anymore. Yes, there's attraction, an attraction she tries to ignore because the purpose and meaning of this trip are more important than anything. However, as their adventure unfolds banters, protectiveness, comforting, and again attraction play great influence on making their relationship confusing and tempting. The big question is... What happens when the trip is over? Can Aubrey finally say goodbye to her aunt? Can she continue with her life after meeting Adam?
I loved the actual traveling in this book. I got to visualize so many beautiful places and connect them to the story. Aubrey was such an eloquent narrator so I enjoyed her descriptions of every place and the significance behind it. It was quite moving.
This story was inspired by actual events and in the book Carey gives some insights into those events. I loved that Carey shared that as it made me appreciate the story even more.♥
This was definitely an awesome read. Fun characters and a beautiful sweet-soulful story, what's not to like?! ;)
Favorite Quotes:
"He reaches up to brush some hair off my face, his hand coming back to hold my check. "What are you doing to me?" It's more a statement than a questions."
"I'm his garden, and he's my Adam, the first."
CAST/TEASER
Visit my blog for more reviews, book news, and giveaways! Blog * Facebook * Twitter
Happy reading! ;)
This is a beautiful and inspiring story about self discovery, grieving, and hope. I really enjoyed reading this book, it was very touching yet it has some great funny moments. I loved the combination!
Aubrey has a very special bond with her aunt Ally as they have loved each other like sisters all her life. So when Aubrey loses her aunt due to cancer she's left completely heartbroken and lost without her best friend. But it's her dear best friend who sends her on a trip of a lifetime to discover herself. The only problem with this promising trip is that Aubrey is not going alone. She's persuaded by her parents to travel with a companion...
At first the idea of being stuck with a stranger on her trip sounds like a very bad idea to Aubrey but once she meets Adam she's not so sure anymore. Yes, there's attraction, an attraction she tries to ignore because the purpose and meaning of this trip are more important than anything. However, as their adventure unfolds banters, protectiveness, comforting, and again attraction play great influence on making their relationship confusing and tempting. The big question is... What happens when the trip is over? Can Aubrey finally say goodbye to her aunt? Can she continue with her life after meeting Adam?
I loved the actual traveling in this book. I got to visualize so many beautiful places and connect them to the story. Aubrey was such an eloquent narrator so I enjoyed her descriptions of every place and the significance behind it. It was quite moving.
This story was inspired by actual events and in the book Carey gives some insights into those events. I loved that Carey shared that as it made me appreciate the story even more.♥
This was definitely an awesome read. Fun characters and a beautiful sweet-soulful story, what's not to like?! ;)
Favorite Quotes:
"He reaches up to brush some hair off my face, his hand coming back to hold my check. "What are you doing to me?" It's more a statement than a questions."
"I'm his garden, and he's my Adam, the first."
CAST/TEASER
Visit my blog for more reviews, book news, and giveaways! Blog * Facebook * Twitter
Happy reading! ;)
February 18, 2014
What an emotional ride this took me on!! What I found so inspiring about this book is that is was inspired by actual events. Its heartbreaking but beautiful. Be prepared with some tissues because you will need it!! I loved every minute of it!
Aubrey has her whole life planned out in front of her. She just graduated high school and was about to leave for her dream college when the discover her aunt Ally, who was more like a best friend, was diagnosed with cancer. Aubrey puts her life on hold to help care for her Ally. They make a "better board" of all the places Ally will visit when she finally beats cancer. Unfortunately that day never comes. Unbeknownst to Aubrey, Ally leaves a will and has specific instructions for her to travel and visit the places they dreamed of going on. But she must do it alone, without her parents. This was Ally's way of repaying for her for taking care of her. She knows that if she doesn't go, she will forever be stuck at her parents house. She has become so dependent on them that she feels like she has not only lost her Aunt but also herself. Even though Aubrey is an adult the though of her traveling on her own terrifies her and does not sit well with her parents. They hire a guide that is a son of a friend who has traveled to all the places and has agreed to accompany her.
Little does Aubrey know the guide is the delicious Adam. At first their relationship is cold. He is there for one thing, to babysit her. They travel to each of the destinations. Since Ally was cremated, Aubrey spreads a little of her ashes at each stop. These are the spots that got me!! GAWH! She loved her Aunt and its heartbreaking when she says goodbye to her at each spot. Having lost loved ones to cancer, this was especially emotional for me!
Somewhere a long the line, Adam and Aubrey start to get a long... then something happens along the way... something smokin hot!! At first I didn't care for Adam but then as time went on and the layers were peeled back I loved him! He gives something to Aubrey during the emotional journey that she needs.
What happens when the journey is over? Does Aubrey go back to her life at her parents are has she been able to spread her wings and find the strong women that has been there all along? What happens with Adam?? Is he just a vacation fling? Will their emotional bond be over before it starts?? Does he go back to his normal life without Aubrey? You need to read to find out!
Aubrey has her whole life planned out in front of her. She just graduated high school and was about to leave for her dream college when the discover her aunt Ally, who was more like a best friend, was diagnosed with cancer. Aubrey puts her life on hold to help care for her Ally. They make a "better board" of all the places Ally will visit when she finally beats cancer. Unfortunately that day never comes. Unbeknownst to Aubrey, Ally leaves a will and has specific instructions for her to travel and visit the places they dreamed of going on. But she must do it alone, without her parents. This was Ally's way of repaying for her for taking care of her. She knows that if she doesn't go, she will forever be stuck at her parents house. She has become so dependent on them that she feels like she has not only lost her Aunt but also herself. Even though Aubrey is an adult the though of her traveling on her own terrifies her and does not sit well with her parents. They hire a guide that is a son of a friend who has traveled to all the places and has agreed to accompany her.
Little does Aubrey know the guide is the delicious Adam. At first their relationship is cold. He is there for one thing, to babysit her. They travel to each of the destinations. Since Ally was cremated, Aubrey spreads a little of her ashes at each stop. These are the spots that got me!! GAWH! She loved her Aunt and its heartbreaking when she says goodbye to her at each spot. Having lost loved ones to cancer, this was especially emotional for me!
Somewhere a long the line, Adam and Aubrey start to get a long... then something happens along the way... something smokin hot!! At first I didn't care for Adam but then as time went on and the layers were peeled back I loved him! He gives something to Aubrey during the emotional journey that she needs.
What happens when the journey is over? Does Aubrey go back to her life at her parents are has she been able to spread her wings and find the strong women that has been there all along? What happens with Adam?? Is he just a vacation fling? Will their emotional bond be over before it starts?? Does he go back to his normal life without Aubrey? You need to read to find out!
February 18, 2014
First I have to start with THIS BOOK IS FLIPPING AMAZING!!!!!! Carey has the tendency to make me go into a roller coaster of emotions, and this was not an exception.
I had the wonderful privilege to be a beta reader of her so I read it last year, and it was on my favorite list of books I read in 2013, but I’m sure that this book is gonna be one of the best books you’re gonna read on 2014. This is by far the best book I have read from this author, very emotional yet wonderful story.
You can see from the first page that this book is going to be really good and as you turn the pages you will see how personal is this book just by the way she wrote it.
Aubrey is a character that if you have felt the lost by cancer of someone you love you will feel for her and you will heal with her. Talking about emotions, there is a poem here, a poem I still can’t read, I still cry when I think about and I will always keep safe in my heart. The poem Aunt Ally wrote (which you will read soon ;)) this poem was so hard to read because it made me face emotions I never wanted to face, emotions I hide because I just didn’t want to feel them. But as I read the poem I made peace with myself and mourn my lost of that special because of a cancer or they were taken away from me out of nowhere.
"… I was tired, I'm now at peace."
Out of the emotions, this book is wonderful, Adam, sexy Adam, you will fall in love with him, he is in this trip with Aubrey and he has this need to protect her, that will make you want someone as caring as him. Because Carey is like that, making this guys hot and caring, the perfect combination but never to the point of feeling that they don’t exist but to the point of feeling that you will find someone like him maybe even better.
"We shouldn’t waste the time we have together."
"But I'm scared I'll get hurt." I admit, losing myself in his grey eyes. They darkened. "I won’t hurt you."
You should really buy this book to found the story between Aubrey and Adam and how special is Aunt Ally. A big congratulations to Carey for writing this amazing book, inspired by his friend. I’m pretty sure he is watching you with a smile, he must be proud of you right now cause this is a story that deserves all the awards and I will keep forever in my thoughts.
I had the wonderful privilege to be a beta reader of her so I read it last year, and it was on my favorite list of books I read in 2013, but I’m sure that this book is gonna be one of the best books you’re gonna read on 2014. This is by far the best book I have read from this author, very emotional yet wonderful story.
You can see from the first page that this book is going to be really good and as you turn the pages you will see how personal is this book just by the way she wrote it.
Aubrey is a character that if you have felt the lost by cancer of someone you love you will feel for her and you will heal with her. Talking about emotions, there is a poem here, a poem I still can’t read, I still cry when I think about and I will always keep safe in my heart. The poem Aunt Ally wrote (which you will read soon ;)) this poem was so hard to read because it made me face emotions I never wanted to face, emotions I hide because I just didn’t want to feel them. But as I read the poem I made peace with myself and mourn my lost of that special because of a cancer or they were taken away from me out of nowhere.
"… I was tired, I'm now at peace."
Out of the emotions, this book is wonderful, Adam, sexy Adam, you will fall in love with him, he is in this trip with Aubrey and he has this need to protect her, that will make you want someone as caring as him. Because Carey is like that, making this guys hot and caring, the perfect combination but never to the point of feeling that they don’t exist but to the point of feeling that you will find someone like him maybe even better.
"We shouldn’t waste the time we have together."
"But I'm scared I'll get hurt." I admit, losing myself in his grey eyes. They darkened. "I won’t hurt you."
You should really buy this book to found the story between Aubrey and Adam and how special is Aunt Ally. A big congratulations to Carey for writing this amazing book, inspired by his friend. I’m pretty sure he is watching you with a smile, he must be proud of you right now cause this is a story that deserves all the awards and I will keep forever in my thoughts.
March 4, 2014
from pagetrotter.blogspot.com
3.5-4 Stars!!
I'm waffling here. It's hard to review a book that is somewhat based on the author's reality. How do you criticize events that actually took place? I mean I know that she changed things, but the emotions behind them are very much based in reality.
Let me start with what I liked. I liked the Aubrey we met at the beginning. She was self-sacrificing, kind, and so lost. She gave up everything to stay home and help her parents with her aunt. That kind of love and devotion is beautiful. And when her aunt died I was heartbroken for her. Then she gets the offer to go on the trip and she's at once terrified and resolved to do this for her aunt. I loved that about her too. I felt like those reactions were valid. I enjoyed the relationship between her and Adam, although at times he lost me. The dialogue is great, even though its a traveling book we don't have long winded flowery descriptions (thank God!), and the pacing for the first half of the book was great!
So now the things that everyone is probably going to hate me for! Sorry peeps! Ok so I would have thought that considering the time spent traveling and the circumstances under which she travels, her character would have grown up a little more. I felt like, yes, she deals with her grief and that's a wonderful process, but in dealing with the grief her character growth gets sacrificed. Not a lot, but it does show in immaturity. I'm not saying she had to be totally different, but it would have been nice to see her grow more. Also the pacing in the second half. Almost immediately when the traveling begins the novel picks up into hyper-speed! I was so bummed because I wanted Adam and Aubrey to explore a little more! Spend more time in these places! I guess this isn't really a bad criticism considering I'm whining about the author not writing more so I could enjoy it more lol. I guess all I'm saying is that maybe the pacing has a lot to do with the fact that I began to lose that connection I had with Aubrey in the beginning.
As a whole the story is very cute and very poignant. It's got a great message and some wonderful moments. I'm sure a lot of you will cry so have some tissues on hand, lovies!! I fully recommend this to everybody!
*ARC provided in exchange for honest review*
3.5-4 Stars!!
I'm waffling here. It's hard to review a book that is somewhat based on the author's reality. How do you criticize events that actually took place? I mean I know that she changed things, but the emotions behind them are very much based in reality.
Let me start with what I liked. I liked the Aubrey we met at the beginning. She was self-sacrificing, kind, and so lost. She gave up everything to stay home and help her parents with her aunt. That kind of love and devotion is beautiful. And when her aunt died I was heartbroken for her. Then she gets the offer to go on the trip and she's at once terrified and resolved to do this for her aunt. I loved that about her too. I felt like those reactions were valid. I enjoyed the relationship between her and Adam, although at times he lost me. The dialogue is great, even though its a traveling book we don't have long winded flowery descriptions (thank God!), and the pacing for the first half of the book was great!
So now the things that everyone is probably going to hate me for! Sorry peeps! Ok so I would have thought that considering the time spent traveling and the circumstances under which she travels, her character would have grown up a little more. I felt like, yes, she deals with her grief and that's a wonderful process, but in dealing with the grief her character growth gets sacrificed. Not a lot, but it does show in immaturity. I'm not saying she had to be totally different, but it would have been nice to see her grow more. Also the pacing in the second half. Almost immediately when the traveling begins the novel picks up into hyper-speed! I was so bummed because I wanted Adam and Aubrey to explore a little more! Spend more time in these places! I guess this isn't really a bad criticism considering I'm whining about the author not writing more so I could enjoy it more lol. I guess all I'm saying is that maybe the pacing has a lot to do with the fact that I began to lose that connection I had with Aubrey in the beginning.
As a whole the story is very cute and very poignant. It's got a great message and some wonderful moments. I'm sure a lot of you will cry so have some tissues on hand, lovies!! I fully recommend this to everybody!
*ARC provided in exchange for honest review*
March 24, 2014
Are you looking for a fantastically different book, that you will fall in love with and want to read over and over? Well Better is the book for you!! This book has so many levels, and it is so emotionally beautifully written you will wish there was more of it.
The story centers around Aubrey. Her aunt /best friend has moved in with her family because she is terminally ill. Aubrey pretty much gives up her own life to help take care of her aunt along with her parents. She is going through some really tough chemo and is not well.
Ally, Aubrey's aunt, makes a better board. It is all the places she wants to go visit when she gets better. Unfortunately, the day never come for Ally. One of her final wishes, though, is for Aubrey to go and visit all the places she never got to. Ally leaves Aubrey her life insurance money, so Aubrey can go on a world wide adventure.
Aubrey's parents are not on board at first. Who can blame them? A young twenty something traveling to different countries around the world could be dangerous. Then, Aubrey's dad enlists the help of one of his friend's sons to go with Aubrey. While, this does not please Aubrey at first, she goes along because she wants to go on the trip and spread her aunt's ashes in each of the places she visits.
Enter Adam. Hot, photographer and New Yorker, who at first in kind of a jerk. He thinks Aubrey in some entitled brat who he needs to babysit on the trip. Adam does not know anything about her or why she is taking the trip. With all their time together and traveling in close proximity, it makes it hard for Adam not to see what a lovely person Aubrey really is. Aubrey is and nothing like her first imagined her to be. When he finds out about the trip, he is overwhelmed.
Both Aubrey and Adam are starting to feel something for each other. But neither thinks it is a good move to act on it. After all they are traveling companions. Plus, they will never see each other after the trip is over.
This was a magnificent story told about love and loss and finding a different kind of love, when you are not even looking for it.
I have read many of Carey Heywood's books. This one has to be my favorite. It is a truly beautiful and moving story about family and love. And somehow, being happy after you have been the saddest you have ever experienced.
The story centers around Aubrey. Her aunt /best friend has moved in with her family because she is terminally ill. Aubrey pretty much gives up her own life to help take care of her aunt along with her parents. She is going through some really tough chemo and is not well.
Ally, Aubrey's aunt, makes a better board. It is all the places she wants to go visit when she gets better. Unfortunately, the day never come for Ally. One of her final wishes, though, is for Aubrey to go and visit all the places she never got to. Ally leaves Aubrey her life insurance money, so Aubrey can go on a world wide adventure.
Aubrey's parents are not on board at first. Who can blame them? A young twenty something traveling to different countries around the world could be dangerous. Then, Aubrey's dad enlists the help of one of his friend's sons to go with Aubrey. While, this does not please Aubrey at first, she goes along because she wants to go on the trip and spread her aunt's ashes in each of the places she visits.
Enter Adam. Hot, photographer and New Yorker, who at first in kind of a jerk. He thinks Aubrey in some entitled brat who he needs to babysit on the trip. Adam does not know anything about her or why she is taking the trip. With all their time together and traveling in close proximity, it makes it hard for Adam not to see what a lovely person Aubrey really is. Aubrey is and nothing like her first imagined her to be. When he finds out about the trip, he is overwhelmed.
Both Aubrey and Adam are starting to feel something for each other. But neither thinks it is a good move to act on it. After all they are traveling companions. Plus, they will never see each other after the trip is over.
This was a magnificent story told about love and loss and finding a different kind of love, when you are not even looking for it.
I have read many of Carey Heywood's books. This one has to be my favorite. It is a truly beautiful and moving story about family and love. And somehow, being happy after you have been the saddest you have ever experienced.
February 17, 2014
**KIM'S REVIEW**
“Can it be that simple? Just living in the moment, no care or worry for what will happen tomorrow?”
Aubrey’s aunt, Ally, had moved in with Aubrey’s family when she was undergoing chemo against a tough fight with cancer. She made a “better board” with all of the places she’d like to visit when she got better. Unfortunately, that day would never come. L Aubrey had put her life on hold and took time off from school, work, etc. to help take care of Alley. After Ally passes Aubrey’s not sure what to do with herself. But Ally had other plans for her. Ally left Aubrey her $50,000 life insurance policy so she could visit all the places on the better board. Aubrey is determined to see this through and even brings her aunt’s ashes to scatter in every place she visits.
Aubrey’s father doesn’t want her to tour the world on her own so he enlists his co-worker’s son, Adam, to go with her. At first Adam comes across like an ass and thinks that Aubrey is a spoiled brat. Boy was he so wrong! And he even finds out that he has more in common with her than he realized. As they get to know each other he becomes extremely overprotective of her and even jealous if she talks or hangs out with another guy. Yet he thinks that anything happening between them would be a bad idea. But how long will they be able to resist each other?
Sheesh!! Carey Heywood had me in tears literally 5 minutes into this book! It was heartbreaking when her aunt died. My MIL had a bout with breast cancer and I know how tough it was on us to watch her go through it so this story line hit a little close to home. I loved watching how Aubrey and Adam’s relationship progress. What was refreshing was that Aubrey was really strong through this journey and never lost focus of what this trip was truly about. I think she made her aunt proud!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“Can it be that simple? Just living in the moment, no care or worry for what will happen tomorrow?”
Aubrey’s aunt, Ally, had moved in with Aubrey’s family when she was undergoing chemo against a tough fight with cancer. She made a “better board” with all of the places she’d like to visit when she got better. Unfortunately, that day would never come. L Aubrey had put her life on hold and took time off from school, work, etc. to help take care of Alley. After Ally passes Aubrey’s not sure what to do with herself. But Ally had other plans for her. Ally left Aubrey her $50,000 life insurance policy so she could visit all the places on the better board. Aubrey is determined to see this through and even brings her aunt’s ashes to scatter in every place she visits.
Aubrey’s father doesn’t want her to tour the world on her own so he enlists his co-worker’s son, Adam, to go with her. At first Adam comes across like an ass and thinks that Aubrey is a spoiled brat. Boy was he so wrong! And he even finds out that he has more in common with her than he realized. As they get to know each other he becomes extremely overprotective of her and even jealous if she talks or hangs out with another guy. Yet he thinks that anything happening between them would be a bad idea. But how long will they be able to resist each other?
Sheesh!! Carey Heywood had me in tears literally 5 minutes into this book! It was heartbreaking when her aunt died. My MIL had a bout with breast cancer and I know how tough it was on us to watch her go through it so this story line hit a little close to home. I loved watching how Aubrey and Adam’s relationship progress. What was refreshing was that Aubrey was really strong through this journey and never lost focus of what this trip was truly about. I think she made her aunt proud!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2014
I was given a copy of Better from GMB in exchange for an honest review
OMG!!! What a freaking AMAZING emotional rollercoaster Better is. Once I got started I couldn't stop. Better is heartbreaking and hopeful and just so inspiring. I LOVED every second of the journey. Carey Heywood never fails to give me such FANTASTIC reading.
Aubrey had her whole life planned out. After graduating high school she was going to go to her dream college. However, life steps in with a few surprises. Her Aunt Ally, who is more like her best friend, is diagnosed with cancer. Aubrey decides to put her dreams on hold to help care for Ally. Ally decides to make a better board of all the places that Ally will visit when she gets better. Well that day never comes, and Ally passes away in her sleep. This part of the story absolutely broke my heart. I was a pitiful mess.
During the reading of Ally’s will Aubrey finds out that her aunt had some money put into a life insurance policy. Her only instructions is for Ally to follow her better board. And she must do it alone. Her parents being worried for her safety hire a friends son to travel with her.
Then we meet ADAM… Sexy, Hot Adam. These tow cracked me up because they really didn’t care for each other in the beginning. I LOVED watching their relationship grow with each stop. You could feel the chemistry these two developed with each other. And Aubrey has some of her aunts cremated ashes to put a little bit at each stop. It was very heartbreaking watching her loose her aunt all over again. But Adam was there for her.
What happens with Aubrey and Adam? Can they continue a relationship living on different sides of the country? You will have to read Better to find out. I gave Better 5 Stars. Absolutely a breathtaking read.
OMG!!! What a freaking AMAZING emotional rollercoaster Better is. Once I got started I couldn't stop. Better is heartbreaking and hopeful and just so inspiring. I LOVED every second of the journey. Carey Heywood never fails to give me such FANTASTIC reading.
Aubrey had her whole life planned out. After graduating high school she was going to go to her dream college. However, life steps in with a few surprises. Her Aunt Ally, who is more like her best friend, is diagnosed with cancer. Aubrey decides to put her dreams on hold to help care for Ally. Ally decides to make a better board of all the places that Ally will visit when she gets better. Well that day never comes, and Ally passes away in her sleep. This part of the story absolutely broke my heart. I was a pitiful mess.
During the reading of Ally’s will Aubrey finds out that her aunt had some money put into a life insurance policy. Her only instructions is for Ally to follow her better board. And she must do it alone. Her parents being worried for her safety hire a friends son to travel with her.
Then we meet ADAM… Sexy, Hot Adam. These tow cracked me up because they really didn’t care for each other in the beginning. I LOVED watching their relationship grow with each stop. You could feel the chemistry these two developed with each other. And Aubrey has some of her aunts cremated ashes to put a little bit at each stop. It was very heartbreaking watching her loose her aunt all over again. But Adam was there for her.
What happens with Aubrey and Adam? Can they continue a relationship living on different sides of the country? You will have to read Better to find out. I gave Better 5 Stars. Absolutely a breathtaking read.
August 4, 2014
Review for BETTER by Carey Heywood
Aubrey is embarking on a bucket list trip around the world, the last wish of her Aunt Ally. It was supposed to be the trip Ally would take when she got better. Now it's just a chance for Aubrey to say goodbye.
Adam escapes in his solo trips overseas, working just enough to fund the next one. When the opportunity to circle the globe falls in his lap he can't refuse. The only catch, he won't be traveling alone this time.
Unable to hide from each other Adam's overprotective nature thwarts Aubrey's desire to find her own way. Can they move past initial assumptions to find something better?
*****
First off, this book touched me in a way even I have a hard time explaining. It is always hard to lose someone you love. I believe we sometimes have to lose someone to find someone else who becomes just as important. There is a reason for everything.
In Better we meet Aubrey who loses her Aunt Ally, her best friend. Aubrey has given up an opportunity to go to Yale to stay home and help her parents care for Ally. After losing her aunt Ally she embarks on a trip that her aunt Ally was meant to take. She meets Adam and everything changes. You watch as they struggle to fight what is between them. As they take this incredible journey together, they find that each has what the other needs.
Better hooked me from the start and kept me there through the whole journey. This is definitely a journey you want to take. There is no cliffhanger in this book but I would personally enjoy seeing a novella or such to see them in the future.
Such a beautifully done piece of work from this author. I will admit that I haven't read anything else by Carey Heywood but now I can't wait to read more.
I wish I could give more than 5 stars on this one.
*Complimentary copy received for an honest review
Aubrey is embarking on a bucket list trip around the world, the last wish of her Aunt Ally. It was supposed to be the trip Ally would take when she got better. Now it's just a chance for Aubrey to say goodbye.
Adam escapes in his solo trips overseas, working just enough to fund the next one. When the opportunity to circle the globe falls in his lap he can't refuse. The only catch, he won't be traveling alone this time.
Unable to hide from each other Adam's overprotective nature thwarts Aubrey's desire to find her own way. Can they move past initial assumptions to find something better?
*****
First off, this book touched me in a way even I have a hard time explaining. It is always hard to lose someone you love. I believe we sometimes have to lose someone to find someone else who becomes just as important. There is a reason for everything.
In Better we meet Aubrey who loses her Aunt Ally, her best friend. Aubrey has given up an opportunity to go to Yale to stay home and help her parents care for Ally. After losing her aunt Ally she embarks on a trip that her aunt Ally was meant to take. She meets Adam and everything changes. You watch as they struggle to fight what is between them. As they take this incredible journey together, they find that each has what the other needs.
Better hooked me from the start and kept me there through the whole journey. This is definitely a journey you want to take. There is no cliffhanger in this book but I would personally enjoy seeing a novella or such to see them in the future.
Such a beautifully done piece of work from this author. I will admit that I haven't read anything else by Carey Heywood but now I can't wait to read more.
I wish I could give more than 5 stars on this one.
*Complimentary copy received for an honest review
October 21, 2014
After losing her aunt/best friend to cancer Aubrey is totally devastated with no way or idea how to move on or what she wants to do with life. She gets a shock from beyond the grave when her aunts will is read and she discovers Ally left her some money and one final wish.
To travel the world and visit all the places Ally would have if she has gotten better they made a "Better" board with pictures and details of all those places now Ally wants her to visit those places without her parents to find her independence and figure out her life.
Her parents her father in particular is not happy with his little girl (well not so little Audrey is 24) travelling around the world on her own so he comes up with a compromise, but no one expect the impact it would have on Audrey's life.
This story is beautiful with the heartaches of reality woven throughout with the intention of showcasing just how short and fragile life is and that we need to take it by the horn and live everyday like its our last. life is just too short for all the bullshit and playing games.
The story had me captivated it is well written and sweet as pie, touching and uplifting The flow is easy and mellow.
Its all good and well reading a nice steamy romance but its so much more important to have ones that has elements of real life and a positive message behind it.
This story is unique, emotional, fun and a whirlwind of different experiences from all around the world. Each place they visited I felt I was there right along with them.
Carey Heywood is a very special lady to pour her heart and soul into print like she has done her bold spirit and bravery its to be admired and I hope more people follow her lead. she is an awesome author we need more positive message.
For the message it conveys I give Better 4 solid beautiful stars.
To travel the world and visit all the places Ally would have if she has gotten better they made a "Better" board with pictures and details of all those places now Ally wants her to visit those places without her parents to find her independence and figure out her life.
Her parents her father in particular is not happy with his little girl (well not so little Audrey is 24) travelling around the world on her own so he comes up with a compromise, but no one expect the impact it would have on Audrey's life.
This story is beautiful with the heartaches of reality woven throughout with the intention of showcasing just how short and fragile life is and that we need to take it by the horn and live everyday like its our last. life is just too short for all the bullshit and playing games.
The story had me captivated it is well written and sweet as pie, touching and uplifting The flow is easy and mellow.
Its all good and well reading a nice steamy romance but its so much more important to have ones that has elements of real life and a positive message behind it.
This story is unique, emotional, fun and a whirlwind of different experiences from all around the world. Each place they visited I felt I was there right along with them.
Carey Heywood is a very special lady to pour her heart and soul into print like she has done her bold spirit and bravery its to be admired and I hope more people follow her lead. she is an awesome author we need more positive message.
For the message it conveys I give Better 4 solid beautiful stars.
March 18, 2014
http://storiesandswag.blogspot.com/20...
Better by Carey Heywood is a phenomenal read that has found itself on the top of my MUST READ list. This is by far my favorite novel from the long list of books Carey has on her resume.
Words cannot describe how emotionally powerful this story is. Carey Heywood doesn’t build you up only to break you down, she breaks you from the start. Shredding your heart and destroying your emotions at the beginning, she uses the remainder of the story to soothe your aches and slowly piece your shattered heart back together. Her words are both your emotional downfall and your savior. Just when you reach the end and feel complete, her personal message in the back of the book demolishes the composure you’ve worked hard to regain and you’re left in shambles again.
And you know what? I loved every single bit of emotional torture I endured. It was poetic and consuming. This isn’t the kind of story you read and move on from. It resonates in your heart, requires you to digest it and cope before you can even begin another story. It ruined me for days following its completion.
There is something so raw and personal about Better that you can’t help but fall in love with these characters and give a piece of yourself to their story. I commend her for taking a leap of faith and exposing a personal part of herself for such an emotionally compelling story. Her risk is my reward. If you haven’t experienced this absolutely heart stopping novel, I urge you to STOP EVERYTHING, get to one-clicking, and experience the incredible story that is Better by Carey Heywood.
Better by Carey Heywood is a phenomenal read that has found itself on the top of my MUST READ list. This is by far my favorite novel from the long list of books Carey has on her resume.
Words cannot describe how emotionally powerful this story is. Carey Heywood doesn’t build you up only to break you down, she breaks you from the start. Shredding your heart and destroying your emotions at the beginning, she uses the remainder of the story to soothe your aches and slowly piece your shattered heart back together. Her words are both your emotional downfall and your savior. Just when you reach the end and feel complete, her personal message in the back of the book demolishes the composure you’ve worked hard to regain and you’re left in shambles again.
And you know what? I loved every single bit of emotional torture I endured. It was poetic and consuming. This isn’t the kind of story you read and move on from. It resonates in your heart, requires you to digest it and cope before you can even begin another story. It ruined me for days following its completion.
There is something so raw and personal about Better that you can’t help but fall in love with these characters and give a piece of yourself to their story. I commend her for taking a leap of faith and exposing a personal part of herself for such an emotionally compelling story. Her risk is my reward. If you haven’t experienced this absolutely heart stopping novel, I urge you to STOP EVERYTHING, get to one-clicking, and experience the incredible story that is Better by Carey Heywood.
July 26, 2016
*ARC received in exchange for honest review*
Tissues. Grab a big ole’ box of them. You’ll be needing them to get through Better by Carey Heywood. This is a true emotional roller coaster ride in the best possible way.
This is a heartbreaking, travel the world, find yourself, and fall in love romance. How about that? Such a great book from Carey Heywood. Aubrey is a young woman living at home with her parents and aunt. Her aunt Ally has been battling cancer and she and Aubrey have worked together to build a Better Board. A board that includes pictures for all the places Ally wants to visit when she gets better. Unfortunately Ally doesn’t get that chance, but Aubrey does. This trip becomes her way to say goodbye to her aunt and find out where she belongs.
Aubrey has to learn to trust herself and those around her. She grows up and somewhere along this wonderful journey, she falls in love. Adam is a young man, asked by Aubrey’s father to accompany her on this journey. Adam and Aubrey’s story starts a bit rocky, but ultimately becomes a story of strength, passion, and love.
The backdrop of this love story are across the world. This is a once in a lifetime trip and a once in a lifetime love. Travels include Australia, India, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. The words Carey Heywood uses when describing these places is nothing less than brilliant. I felt like I was on this journey with her and saying goodbye to someone I lost as well.
This is my favorite Carey Heywood novel to date, and is a beautifully written love story.
Tissues. Grab a big ole’ box of them. You’ll be needing them to get through Better by Carey Heywood. This is a true emotional roller coaster ride in the best possible way.
This is a heartbreaking, travel the world, find yourself, and fall in love romance. How about that? Such a great book from Carey Heywood. Aubrey is a young woman living at home with her parents and aunt. Her aunt Ally has been battling cancer and she and Aubrey have worked together to build a Better Board. A board that includes pictures for all the places Ally wants to visit when she gets better. Unfortunately Ally doesn’t get that chance, but Aubrey does. This trip becomes her way to say goodbye to her aunt and find out where she belongs.
Aubrey has to learn to trust herself and those around her. She grows up and somewhere along this wonderful journey, she falls in love. Adam is a young man, asked by Aubrey’s father to accompany her on this journey. Adam and Aubrey’s story starts a bit rocky, but ultimately becomes a story of strength, passion, and love.
The backdrop of this love story are across the world. This is a once in a lifetime trip and a once in a lifetime love. Travels include Australia, India, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. The words Carey Heywood uses when describing these places is nothing less than brilliant. I felt like I was on this journey with her and saying goodbye to someone I lost as well.
This is my favorite Carey Heywood novel to date, and is a beautifully written love story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews