Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Something Like Normal By Trish Doller

Something Like Normal

When Travis returns home from a stint in Afghanistan, his parents are splitting up, his brother’s stolen his girlfriend and his car, and he’s haunted by nightmares of his best friend’s death. It’s not until Travis runs into Harper, a girl he’s had a rocky relationship with since middle school, that life actually starts looking up. And as he and Harper see more of each other, he begins to pick his way through the minefield of family problems and post-traumatic stress to the possibility of a life that might resemble normal again. Travis’s dry sense of humor, and incredible sense of honor, make him an irresistible and eminently lovable hero.

They cover is kinda embarrassing isn't it? Well, for me anyway. But I like the blue tone that goes with the white. Being an artist, it catches my attention. In a good way.

The Plot:

Travis just came back from Afghanistan. Even though he's gets a grand welcome, not everything is great.
His parents are splitting up, her brother's stolen his girlfriend and car and he's being haunted by nightmares of his best friends death.  Then he meets Harper, who he hasn't been on good terms with since middle school. His life takes a sudden turn. At her arrival, he starts making his way though his family problems and post-traumatic stress so that maybe his life can seem...normal again. It gonna take a while though.

The Characters:

Travis- The poor boy has gone through alot. I wasn't expecting him to be all cheery and fresh. He been affected deeply by what he's seen and what he's gone through. He sad, tired, broken and just, in my opinion, needs a hug. 
He meets Harper, the girl who's life he messed up and she's not all that pleased to see him. But she forgives him, let's him in and before long, the boy is head over heels. I loved their relationship. Travis was scared. He never had a proper relationship before. His ex and him merely had a fling but with Harper, it scary because he wants more but isn't sure if he's ready for it. I will say, I felt their relationship developed fast. Even though there was more to the story than romance, I just felt it could have developed a little slower. I liked Travis anyway. I like his relationship with his mom, his courage to stand up to his dad, his friendship with Charlie and his ability to love others so...strongly. 

Harper- I like you Harper. Too bad not every girl is as forgiving and loyal as you. I certainly wouldn't be after what he made you go through. But that's probably made me respect you more and made me take a proper look at myself.
You were there for Travis when he needed you, never pushed him, never forced him but loved him unconditionally. I salute you.

Others- Travis's mom was overly affectionate but she loved him so much, so I could see why. His dad was an ass and his brother wasn't far behind. 

But my favourite of all, Charlie. I know, he's dead *cringe* but through flashbacks, I got to see a more defined Charlie and let me tell you, it broke my heart. He was strong, loyal, caring, outright a beautiful person that I felt his death was regretful. The ones who deserve to live are the ones to leave first. 
The last chapter made me blink twice as hard, take deep breaths and just...not cry. That chapter struck me more than anything. That's why I hate the sad, touchy-feely books because I hate sad things. Life is sad enough. I don't need to feel the same thing through books. 

Overall, a beautiful, touching read that I recommend to all. Just the right amounts of...everthing.

4 Stars! Enjoy!


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