John Goode (1)

4.5 Stars

I will say this - Goode writes real life. He's not going to sugarcoat things, he's not going to make sure everything works out 100%. The hopeless lover of romance did not like this at all. But this series is not for escapism, it's more like a cold bucket of water or a slap in the face (and I mean that in the nicest way possible).

Basically Kyle and Brad are now "grownups". They've escaped Foster and are supposedly living the dream - being together while Kyle goes to college and show more Brad…. well Brad is going to wing it. And this is where real life takes over. Suffice it to say a "perfect storm" of epic proportions drives these two apart, and it isn't pretty.

Thus far, the main focus has always been pretty much Kyle. He has grown from an invisible person to an outspoken, brilliant activist in his own right, championing others. He's been the victim often in his life, which fuels his fatalistic attitude at times, making you (me) want to throttle some sense into him. Kyle is so smart he should and will have the world at his fingertips, but that does not necessarily make him worldly and wise in relationships. He's got a lot of growing up to do.

So I think finally, this was Brad's time to shine. He went from self absorbed jock to something amazing. Over and over he proves that coming out was the right choice, and he never, ever wavered on that once he did. Throw in his steadfast support and unconditional love for Kyle and I was done for. Hands down, he was the best thing about this book because he realizes what needs to be done in order for him and Kyle to be together. And that ending?? Seeing him across the street?? Swooning so hard here!!

I can only hope that Goode continues to write about these two - life won't easily fall into place because that's obviously not a given, but he's shown that things are worth fighting for, waiting for. I have the utmost belief in Kyle and Brad because I'm taking to heart what Brad said - "have faith in that."

Thanks to Belen and Meags for the much needed BR support!! show less

Wow! There is a paragraph on pg. 1, PAGE 1 people, that begins with...
I remember being on the edge of seventeen, that dangerous time between childhood and young adult when the cement is still wet in your mind...
and I had to pause in my reading because, YES, I remember my 17 year old self and THIS, this paragraph is perfection!!!

Wonderfully crafted characters. I didn't always like Matt but he rang true.

This series... I can't even describe how much I love this series and this third book surpassed every (already pretty darn high) expectation I had. The MCs voices are just so real and raw and Brad, in particular, has grown so very much throughout the series.

My only tiny complaint is that Kyle's agency was stolen by the adults, but I was so thrilled by the adults and their support that my irritation lasted all of a nano-second. I would have liked a little more interaction between Brad and his show more dad because the point they are at here and where they'd been left in the previous book are miles apart, but frankly, I was too busy cheering to care all that much.

This is a beautifully written story with engaging characters that will frustrate you, make you laugh, make you bawl like a baby, and make you feel so proud to know them. Everyone needs to read this series. Every teenager/preteen needs to read this last book in particular.

There are not enough stars for this book. show less

Well after nearly a 6 hour drive home, my thoughts are still not where I want them to be with this book. So I will start by apologizing up front for what is sure to be rambling.

I found myself in a bit of a predicament where this book was concerned and felt constantly as if I were changing hats...from The Fan, to The Reader, to The Mom. So, I will try to tackle this book from these perspectives.

The Fan It has been nearly 4 months since I wrote my first review of one of John's books and my show more first statement still holds true.

First let me say...John Goode...

...and he continues to amaze me with his words. As he knows, I would be happy to read his grocery list at this point. :) I hear a new book is coming, and I, like many, find myself...



There is a trust established at some point between reader and author and certainly by this point (with nearly 10 stories behind me) I have developed this trust. To understand that while certain scenes and points of views may be difficult to take, there will come a realization that there is a method to the madness, so to speak. I trust John to take me on the emotional journey and know that I will be forever changed by his words. I will get back to this point later. Onto...
The Reader So meet Danny Monroe



To say, I was a little surprised by this book would be an understatement. This is not your typical John Goode Foster High book. I know, I know...this is a spinoff series and not a Foster High book. That said, this book is just heavy. Intended or not, this one is, and tells Danny's story up to the point he enters college at A&M. His tale is not filled with sunshine and rainbows. It is heartbreaking but as with many of John's stories and characters...it feels real. Danny is real and so perfectly portrayed as a boy searching for himself, searching for love and wanting above all to feel accepted. His love for basketball is heartfelt and as a reader you feel his highs and lows, and as much as you're affected, you can't help but love him more and more with each and every page. A few highlights/comments/questions...

• Nate...my gawwd...this character ranks up there in the top 3 supporting characters in all of the Foster High Books...up there with my favorite father, Marvin Wallace (more on him later) and Gayle. Nate is just what Danny needs in his life and he will forever hold a special place in my heart.
• Father Mulligan once again gets his moment to shine, and shine he does. I was however taken back by Danny's reaction to this introduction to religion. While he is inspired to join the church after hearing Father Mulligan (and let's be honest...who wouldn't be) his perspective the months following and how he comes to view gays and quote scripture left me scratching my head. Was this more from where he chose to attend church after this introduction to Father Mulligan??
• Mistakes...poor Danny struggles considerably to the point I wanted to shake some sense into him. Where is Brad?? Yes, we as readers of 151 Days know that Danny will meet our wonderful Brad for an eyeopening discussion. Come on...this boy needs him some Brad right now!! As to who Danny wants to be with...I had to go back and see if it was Cody or Sam. Was this revealed in his discussion with Brad? Well...it was. It's Sam!. Although honestly, I was smitten with both boys, so would not have been disappointed either way.

As a parent...I just want my boy to be happy...which leads me to the third and final hat..

The Mom As a Mom, I felt more than a little like Loki...



John...I still love you though. But damn..
Why?? For me personally, there is nothing more upsetting than a child not feeling loved for who they are. For not feeling like they are the child their parents want them to be. The relationship between Danny and his father tore me up. John has a way of creating parents that I have loved and those I have hated. So going into this, I was unsure where John Monroe would land, but my heart wanted desperately for him to live up to my favorite parent...Marvin Wallace (Matt's Dad, Taking Chances)...yes, I have a bit of a crush on this man!

For me, John Monroe, needed his own POV in this story. Their relationship is one that I wish we could have experienced from both sides. Hearing at the end of the book that John Monroe never meant for his actions and words to be perceived by Danny in the way they were, while relieved, just hurt me. Poor Danny struggled so much over these words. We, as parents, are not perfect, there is no manual on raising your specific child. We, like our children, make mistakes. I have made so many mistakes, but I hope my kids know that I love them, I'm proud of them and I want above all else for them to find love and to be loved as they grown into adults. I want love for Danny and truly believe his Dad loves him unconditionally and only wants to see him happy. I know this love is coming for him

John, I trust you. I may have been taken on an emotional ride, but the journey is just beginning and I am sure to be left with nothing but love for this series. Take that as a challenge or just accept it for what it is. You leave us at the end of each book wanting more and with 4 ahead in 2015, it is sure to be a Goode year! Thank you!


If you have not yet been affected by John's words, you are in for a treat. " show less