1/11/2013

From Ashes by Molly McAdams Review

From Ashes by Molly McAdams
★★★★★
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks
Age: Mature YA/ New Adult
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Realistic Fiction, Abuse, Love Triangle, Love, Romance, Friendship
Format: ebook
Source: Publisher via Edelweiss
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
When Cassidy Jameson's best friend Tyler took her to Texas with him when he left for college, she was expecting his cousin, their new roommate, to be a Stetson-wearing cowboy since his family owned a ranch; not this incredibly gorgeous guy with a husky Southern drawl that seemed to make the world stop whenever she looked at him. Because of her past, she's only ever trusted two men in her life, Tyler and her dad whom passed away when she was six. But there's something about Gage that draws her to him in a way she can't explain, only problem? He's always telling Tyler that he doesn't want Cassidy living there and sees her as nothing more than his little sister.
Gage Carson was excited his cousin Tyler was coming to live with, and go to college with him. When he'd called to ask if he could bring his friend Cassi with him, Gage didn't care. Gage had heard about this mysterious friend since they were kids and felt like he already knew her. Nothing would prepare him for watching her jump out of Ty's Jeep though. Not only was Cassi the most beautiful girl he'd ever seen, but there was something about her that within seconds of meeting her, made Gage want to protect her, and make her his. Too bad Tyler made it a point to remind Gage on a daily basis that he was dating her and she was completely off limits.
For a year and a half, Gage and Cassidy dance around their feelings for each other as Tyler continues to keep them apart; until one day Tyler unknowingly pushes her right into Gage's arms. With Tyler unable to keep lying to them, they finally start a relationship both have been craving since their first meeting. But when an accident and disaster sends her back to Tyler and California, will Cassidy be able to come face to face with the demons from her past to live a life she and Gage deserve; or will the fact that she once again ran to Tyler be the final push that ends Cassidy and Gage for good?
Recommended for ages 17+ due to sexual situations and language.
Molly McAdams is a rockstar. While From Ashes didn't completely destroy my resolve to live, as Taking Chances did, I loved it for its beautiful story and the way it made my heart swell. It is turbulent and frustrating, but also a very rewarding read.

When Cassidy escapes the harsh life she's been living since her father's death and joins her best friend, Tyler, in Texas she meets Gage Carson and wants nothing more than to get close to him. But, unfortunately according to Tyler, Gage can't stand her. So, what's a girl to do? Give in to the one guy who has always been there for you, right? I loved that the book alternated between Gage and Cassi's POVs. I enjoyed knowing what they both were thinking, even if it made the entire ordeal harder to digest.

This book frustrated the bejesus out of me. Well, more Tyler than the book; I WANTED TO SHAKE STRANGLE HIM. Tyler is the king of deception. I couldn't help but hate him a little, even though I loved him a little too; he was manipulative and calculating. He's the best friend, the one who has always been there for Cassi but he is one of the most selfish characters I've ever encountered. This character flaw works in Gage's favor though. Molly created a love triangle that left me rooting solely for one leading man, even if I really wished the best friend turned boyfriend thing could've worked out.

In Molly's writing she excels at getting a reader lost in her story; for me, the outside world did not exist. This whirlwind story takes an exceptionally well developed turn as Cassidy ventures back to her home in California and comes face to face with her past. I was shocked and horrified for this girl and the demons she had to overcome to stand upright again. The whole book is uplifting, even when it's not. My favorite parts of the book included Gage's family and his home life.

I still can't forgive Tyler.

From Ashes is an excellent read. A book that will bury itself into any readers heart. I loved it and cannot wait to see what else Molly McAdams has to offer!

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