I have read and reviewed several Staci Hart books now and you think you know the type of stories that an author will write.
So it was with some surprise that this new story is geared more to the young adult crowd. Inspired by Jane Austen‘s Sense and Sensibility story, we get a whole new view of life in the city in this new release. Here are my thoughts.
Living Out Loud by Staci Hart
Publisher: Staci Hart Novels, LLC
Publication Date: January 30, 2018
ASIN: B079GRMLSL
When Annie Daschel arrives in New York City, the only thing she can control is her list.
Not her father’s death or the loss of her home. Not the hole in her heart or the defective valve that’s dictated so much of her life. But she can put pen to paper to make a list of all the ways she can live out loud, just like her dad would have wanted.
- See the city from the top of the Empire State Building: Check.
- Eat hot dogs on the steps of The Met: Check.
- Stand in the middle of Times Square: Check.
- Get a job at Wasted Words: Check.
Two things not on her list: Greg Brandon and Will Bailey. And just like that, she finds herself caught in the middle of something she can’t find her way out of, with no clear answers and no rules.
List or no list, she realizes she can’t control anything at all, not even her heart.
Not the decisions it makes, and not the moment it stops.
Inspired by Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility.
Living Out Loud by Staci Hart Book Review
The first word that comes to my mind about this book is sweet. It’s a sweet story about a young girl who moves from a Podunk town to New York City.
With health issues and awe of the city sights, she has passion in her heart. A passion to live life out loud.
As an innocent young woman wit no clue about men, she ends up meeting two guys. Such as the way of the world she has to learn things the hard way.
Who is good? Who will care for her? Who loves her?
Written with all good intentions, the story is just so sweet. It’s enjoyable but rather predictable. There is a fair amount of emotion and the desire to know what is going to happen, but I was never overly attached.
Perhaps I’m a little jaded and I don’t see the world through rose colored glasses much anymore. I loved Annie’s wide eyed look at the world but yet it got a little monotonous after a bit. The innocence and sheltered way of living was a bit much for me.
One bright part of the story was Greg. He is so sweet and caring, just what she needs, except there is also Will. The real question is who will win her heart.
Overall, it’s a lovely story. Just not one that captured my heart.
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.