Mini Reviews: The Believer, by Ann Gabhart, and Sea of Love, by Jamie Ponti

I thought I'd do a couple of mini reviews since a) I don't feel up to doing a full review for either of these (see the grades), and b) it will start a new trend for the blog.

The Believer, by Ann Gabhart
Adult, 2009

When Elizabeth has nowhere to turn after her father dies, she and her siblings present themselves to the Shakers. But when Elizabeth and a believer, Ethan, begin to have feelings for each other, they run the risk of losing the security of their new home, and perhaps their own salvation.
Writing is ok, plot is decent, although familiar, the characterization is....eh, and the ending rushed and sloppy.
Graded a C+.




Sea Of Love, by Jamie Ponti
Young Adult, 2008

Darby moves reluctantly with her family from NYC to Coconut Beach, Florida, where she scoffs at everything from the sand to the salt water until cute-boy Zach grabs her attention. Slowly he shows her the ins and outs of their town as she discovers she might actually fit in. That is, until her flashy NYC boyfriend shows up, threatening to ruin everything she's now a part of.
Writing is....eh, plot is ok, characters are decent - love the dad AND the mom, love a few side scenes that totally unique, but found a lot of the dialogue between teens ridiculous.
Graded a C+.