This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
The Coincidence of Callie & Kayden by Jessica SorensenSeries: Callie & Kayden #1
Publication Date: August 6, 2013
Publisher: Forever / Hachette Book Group
Pages: 400
Goodreads
Source: From the Publisher
Genre: Fiction / Romance / New Adult
Rating: ★★★½
Synopsis:
From the bestselling author of The Secret of Ella and Micha comes a mesmerizing novel of fate, friendship, and the healing power of love . . .
The Coincidence of Callie & Kayden
For Kayden, suffering in silence was the only way to survive. If he was lucky, he could keep his head down, do as he was told, and make it through the day. But one night it seemed like his luck-and his life-might finally end . . . until an angel named Callie appeared just in time to rescue him.
Callie has never believed in luck. Not since her twelfth birthday when everything was taken from her. After the worst was over, she locked up her feelings and vowed never to tell anyone what happened. Now, six years later, she continues to struggle with the painful secret that threatens to consume her.
When fate lands Kayden and Callie at the same college, Kayden is determined to get to know the beautiful girl who changed his destiny. Quiet and reserved, Callie still fears letting anyone else into her world. But Kayden is certain that Callie has come back into his life for a reason. And the more he tries to be a part of her life, the more he realizes that, this time, it's Callie who needs to be saved . . .
REVIEW
I have a collection of books in the New Adult genre on my bookshelf. I’ve been meaning to read them, but haven’t gotten around to it until now, until I read this book. The Coincidence of Callie & Kayden by Jessica Sorensen served as my introduction to the world of New Adult, and what an introduction it was! I was completely engrossed in this book and couldn’t put it down. In fact, I read it in one sitting and then read it again.
This book was a refreshing departure from the elements I dislike about the Young Adult genre. It didn’t rely on “instant love” or feature weak female main characters waiting to be saved or seen for who they are. There were no trivial problems or idealized male leads. Instead, we were presented with two flawed characters who faced real issues and problems. Watching them come together and support each other was incredibly compelling. They recognized the importance of working on themselves before being able to be there for others. It was a display of maturity that was truly refreshing.
In summary, The Coincidence of Callie & Kayden explored the theme of maturity in both the story and the characters themselves, which was a delight to witness. While Callie & Kayden were still navigating their way through young adulthood, their journey had depth and it was impossible not to root for them as the story unfolded.
And that ending! Cliffhangers usually frustrate me, but this one only left me eager to read the next book in the series, The Redemption of Callie & Kayden. Look out for its release in stores in February 2014 or grab the eBook version now!
