Slammed #1 - Colleen Hoover

Title : Slammed #1
Author : Colleen Hoover
Series : Slammed Series
Publisher : Atria Books
Published on September 18th 2012
Synopsis :

Falling in love can feel like poetry. Or it can feel like a slam to the heart. Colleen Hoover’s romantic, emotion-packed debut novel unforgettably captures all the magic and confusion of first love, as two young people forge an unlikely bond before discovering that fate has other plans for them. Following the unexpected death of her father, eighteen-year-old Layken becomes the rock for both her mother and younger brother. She appears resilient and tenacious, but inside, she's losing hope. Then she meets her new neighbor Will, a handsome twenty-one-year-old whose mere presence leaves her flustered and whose passion for poetry slams thrills her. Not long after a heart-stopping first date during which each recognizes something profound and familiar in the other, they are slammed to the core when a shocking discovery brings their new relationship to a sudden halt. Daily interactions become impossibly painful as they struggle to find a balance between the feelings that pull them together and the forces that tear them apart. Only through the poetry they share are they able to speak the truth that is in their hearts and imagine a future where love is cause for celebration, not regret.

Review :

After Layken's dad passed away, her mother decided leave Texas. Along with her nine years old brother Kel, they moved to Michigan. When they arrived at their new house, Kel already made friends with Caulder, their neighbor whom is the same age with Kel. While moving their things out to the house, Layken meets Caulder's brother Will. They instantly fell head over heels for one another. But it's doesn't last long, because apparently Will is Layken's teacher at her new school. There are many risks that it has, and who will be put first, second and third? Is it family, job or Layken? 

I sort of have a love-hate relationship with Will. As a teacher and only brother to Caulder, he did a great job because it ain't easy to raise a kid while he is supposed to chase his dream. But for love problems, he sucks so bad. However, I'm forever loving guys who kiss foreheads instead of lips in a certain moment. So yeah, I forgive you, buddy. 

"Whatever burden it was that she was carrying around, I wanted to carry it for her." - Will

Apart from the love between Layken and Will which by the way is complicated as hell, it's a beautiful story. I noticed that Will said 'That's not a good idea' more than once or twice. I tried not to count but even if I don't count it, I still feel the words come up once and again which is a bit disturbing. But again dude, I forgive you.

It's a heart touching story between Layken and her mother. I feel so connected with them and their stories. To stories that they've gone through since her dad passed away, I couldn't put into words how sad I am. Layken's mom is my favorite. Her words are very inspiring and just like all mothers will do to their daughters, she encouraged Layken, being her friend when she needs it, and taught her how to be strong and caring.

This book is so much more than just the love between a teacher and student. It's also about family, life and death. What I love more about this book is the poems. There is two or three poems that I skip in the beginning, but as soon as I read Layken's and Will's, I was mesmerized. The author doesn't only write a novel but poems as well. Those are all great poems and have deep meaning inside.

"Question everything. Your love, your religion, your passions. If you don't have questions, you'll never find answers."

Rating : 4/5