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Thursday, January 6, 2011

Book Review: Other Words For Love by Lorraine Zago Rosenthal

Other Words For Love by Lorraine Zago Rosenthal
Reading Level: Young Adult
Release Date: January 11, 2011
Pages: 368
Source: Received from author/publicist for honest review

Summary: When an unexpected inheritance enables Ari to transfer to an elite Manhattan prep school, she makes a wealthy new friend, Leigh. Leigh introduces Ari to the glamorous side of New York—and to her gorgeous cousin, Blake. Ari doesn't think she stands a chance, but amazingly, Blake asks her out. As their romance heats up, they find themselves involved in an intense, consuming relationship. Ari's family worries that she is losing touch with the important things in life, like family, hard work, and planning for the future. When misfortune befalls Blake's family, he pulls away, and Ari's world drains of color. As she struggles to get over the breakup, Ari must finally ask herself: were their feelings true love . . . or something else?

My Review: Other Words For Love is an enthralling debut with realistic issues surrounding family, friends and love. Not only did Lorraine gracefully capture everyday scenarios but she nailed it with a New York-esque vibe. Call me biased but I loved the fact that the main character was from my borough of Brooklyn. Which brings me to Ari, she was a sweet and patient teen with a sensitive side. But, as time went on, I started seeing her insecurities surface. On top of that, her eccentric family members didn't help the situation. The only individual I found sort of sane was her mother. Her father was M.I.A. and her sister was one crazy, bi-polar witch. One part I did find a little disturbing was Ari's crush on her sister's husband. I mean it happens, you can admire someone's handsome features but not in a "I want to make out with my brother in law" kind of way. I must say though it was extremely entertaining.

Now, as for the friendship department, her best friend Summer was an evil and cunning individual who didn't shy away from flirting. Half the things that came out of her mouth, made me cringe. If I was in Ari's shoes for a day, I'd unfortunately have to punch her dead in the mouth. Thank you Lorraine for creating characters that make my blood boil. Moving on, the last 150 pages picked up when Ari's first love, Blake enters the picture. All the drama following her relationship starts to escalate to an unexpected conclusion. The ups and downs Ari goes through is normal considering the circumstances. It truly is a relatable story line that most of us could connect with on a certain level. By the end, I was left smiling which by far is the best way to finish a book. I am ecstatic to see Lorraine's development as a writer. Her debut definitely showcased her writing skills which leads me to believe there is more amazing books on the way!

My Rating: (4.5)
Author's Info:
Lorraine Zago Rosenthal was born and raised in New York City. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's in education from the University of South Florida. She also earned a master's in English, with a concentration in American and British literature, from Northern Kentucky University. In addition to writing fiction, Lorraine enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending time with her husband. Other Words for Love is her first novel.

For more info on Lorraine, visit her sites:

7 comments:

Unknown said...

I can't wait to read this one, I already pre-ordered it. Thanks for the awesome review! =)

Nikki (Wicked Awesome Books) said...

I'm so excited for this one! Lately, contemporary books have been dominating my shelves and this review only makes me want to read Other Words for Love even more. Great review, Eleni.

Amanda said...

"...I'd unfortunately have to punch her dead in the mouth." Haha. I'm quite excited for this one! One of the few contemps that ever seem to catch my eye.

Rachel said...

I'm so excited to actually read this one! It sounds so good, and your review only made me want it more haha.

Ashley @ Book Labyrinth said...

Sounds quite good! I've heard good stuff about this one from a few people, so I'll definitely be checking it out.

I really love the cover!

Jessica Lawlor said...

I'm in the midst of this one right now and I am loving it so far!

Kelly aka yllektra(I Work For Books) said...

Oh, that was a nice review.
This seems like a good book dealing with relationships and how far one is willing to go in order to maintain some sort of status while being oneself.

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