| Title | : | The Queen B* Strikes Back (The Queen B*, #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1940559456 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781940559452 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 244 |
| Publication | : | First published September 29, 2015 |
The Queen B* Strikes Back (The Queen B*, #2) Reviews
-
The Queen B* Strikes Back by Crista McHugh is the second book of the young adult contemporary romance The Queen B* series. This second book picks up right where the story ended after book one so it’s definitely a series that needs to be read in order to fully understand.
This series is about Alexis Wyndham who is a high school senior who has overwhelmingly earned her title of the Queen B* in her school. Maybe most wouldn’t be proud of this title but Alexis owns it and actually strives to earn it. You see, Alexis was hurt in the past so being the Queen B* allows her to control those that get close to her and keep the others in fear of what she will do to them if they cross her path.
One person in the school Alexis never saw herself becoming friends with was Brett, the captain and star of the football team. However, when the health teacher informs them of a project coupling up and caring for a digital infant doll together Alexis manages to end up with Brett as a partner. When Brett shocks Alexis one time after another as they get to know each other she begins to rethink her image of him.
After this second book I’m still enjoying the fun little young adult contemporary romance series. There are plenty of laugh out loud moments throughout the books but I also can’t help but feel for Alexis with how she had been treated and why she stays away from others. Looking forward to seeing how the series wraps up in the third book soon.
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The Queen B* Strikes Back
Book Description
Alexis Wyndham isn’t quite sure what to think about her “friendship” with star quarterback, Brett Pederson. Sure, he has more intelligence than the entire football team combined. Not to mention that fact he’s a great kisser. When he asks her to help him with his college admission essays, she isn’t sure if he’s doing it to spend more time with her or if he’s just using her for her brains. But after her nemesis, Summer Hoyt, makes it clear she’s not finished chasing after Brett, Alexis begins realize how hard she’s fallen for Brett. Now the war is on, and the head cheerleader will find out why she should never take on a Queen B*
Alexis Wyndham isn't sure what to think about her relationship with the star quarterback, Brett. Trusting a person and letting them in is something Alexis finds difficult to do but when Brett asks her for help, Alexis begins to feel more and doubt his motives more.
Brett Pederson needs help with his collage admission essay and there's only one person he'd want help from, Alexis.
When Alexis agrees to help Brett she's doubting his motives in her mind. Unsure is he's using her to break her like Summer or if he's 100% genuine. A party invite ends in disaster and Alexis' world is left spinning. She's angry, devastated and heartbroken all over again. Will the pair be able to come back from the hurt or will this be the end to their friendship?
The Queen B* Strikes Back is part two in The Queen B* series, you MUST read the first book before starting on this one.
Alexis and Brett's relationship has a potential to be beautiful but Alexis is too damn stubborn. She's annoying and irritating with the way she acts with Brett but you just have to love her and understand where she's coming from.
The book was full of sadness mixed with a lot of happiness (when Alexis wasn't in her damn head) and it's been fun to read. Can't wait to get started on
The Queen B* and the Homecoming King. -
I read this book before reading the first one & I still could follow everything & loved it! I totally get Lexi's position about putting a wall up, not allowing anyone too close because of her failed friendship with Summer. I get the feeling Summer is completely jealous of Lexi from some passages in the book.
Lexi writes a blog called The Eastline Spy which is feared by teens & adults alike. She writes about bullying, injustice, fraud, waste within the school. She's feared because she doesn't discriminate as to who she writes about including the popular crowd, teachers etc. Lexi has an extremely rigid view of the high school hierarchy which I guess developed because of her experiences. I don't remember high school being so rigid actually. I hung out with a variety of people in different 'cliques'.
Brett is very sweet, cocky, funny and very attractive from what's written about him. I like the fact Lexi loves the way Brett smells. This sense is underrated and I go by sense of smell also. I love the way he challenges Lexi with a comment or a look. He's open-minded which is difficult to find in anyone, let alone a 17 year old. His suggestion to Lexi about being compassionate seems to have started to take hold. Lexi doesn't know how to react or what to expect from him & wonders why he doesn't go away. I love the statement, "You look flustered." He embarrasses her with his candor. He announced he was asking for Lexi's phone number in class. She wanted to sink into a hole lol. Brett definitely has no hang ups as to who he talks to and he is fair. I want to know more about Richard & Morgan. They're definitely Lexi's friends & I like how they all support each other. Lexi's dad and mom seem to balance each other out as parents. I can imagine how they connected initially, but their differences drew them apart.
Lexi and Taylor, her sister, have a distant relationship. I wonder why, but I'm hoping their relationship is explored.
I love the writing! The words flow off the page in a way I rarely see. Crista McHugh is a fantastic author! I read book 2 lol, so I'll continue my review. Happy reading! -
Normally I don't go for YA contemporary romances but with this author I made an exception for the first book and had to read the second book as well.
I really liked this story from the beginning (meaning book 1 as this is the second book and it is better to read the books in order, otherwise you will be lost) and were I had some trouble with Alexis in the first book, it got much better with this one.
Brett went the other direction. I adored him in the first book but here I was sometimes quite put out and wanted to yell at him that indeed actions are speaking louder than words.
there were some moments in there, were I could not believe his nerve but in the end, he quite redeemed himself.
so all in all, if you are looking for a fun YA contemporary romance, please try this series. -
AMZ:
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B&N:
http://bit.ly/1KBmADV
Kobo:
http://bit.ly/1Kv7Rwz
iBooks:
http://apple.co/1L6js8v
Google Play:
http://bit.ly/1L6jxJv -
4.4/5 stars!
I love this book, I like the first one and how the author ended it but the second book was better. I knew this series from wattpad waaaay back then (you still can read the first book for free at wattpad) and I got the second and third book for free in that time (in exchange for honest review). And after I read this book I just realized that I've read it before, so it's kinda refreshed my memory again before I read book 3.
So, this story is continuing from Brett and Alexis unfinished relationship at the first book, from where it left out. The relationship-building is neater and carefully shorted out. They're trying to opened up to each other, testing the boundaries, testing the trust, and more conflicts ahead. And you all will think that High School popularity is an awful thing, and it can affect people in a bad way.
This book bring out all of those problems with well-written storyline. It didn't bore me like a lame or cheesy high school love story. The plot is written to make you felt frustrated but excited at the same time. It taught me that trust is the most important thing in relationship. -
I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Crista McHugh. A copy of this review is posted on my blog, too:
flyingbookpages.wordpress.com
I am super thankful that I requested the first book of this series in NetGalley and I'm much more thankful that I got the chance to read it. After fangirling so hard that time, I visited Crista's website and found out how to be part of her list of ARC readers/reviewers.
I can't thank you enough for giving me this opportunity,
Crista McHugh.
Honestly, I was hesitant in requesting a copy of this in NetGalley because I didn't really feel like reading Contemporary that time. But after reading the first book and this one, I'm so thankful that I did.
The second installment in The Queen B* Series picks up where it left off. I loved how it felt like I just read the first book even though it has been months since I finished it. These books are such light reads. I finished this one while I was at the office and yes, that's because I can't get enough of Brett. I mean, come on! I was fangirling so hard.
What I loved most about this book is that it shows the madness "that everybody seems to hate and love most of the time" that is high school. I loved how it breaks stereotypes and labels. It's also great to see how it shows the differences of different families and how the teens try to cope up with everything in their lives.
Another thing that I loved most is the narration. I never got bored with Alexis. I loved how she described everything and how open she was with the readers. I loved seeing her trying so hard to look strong in front of everybody and Brett but was really vulnerable inside. Her contrasting emotions made it so much clearer.
If you've been reading my reviews, you know how in love I am with Peter Kavinsky of TATBILB. One thing I realized after reading this book is that there are similarities between TATBILB and this series. Just SOME, not all, okay? Different concepts, though. And different female leads' personalities, that's for sure.
It just overwhelmed me to realize that Brett and Peter are both sweet, and kind and really close to being perfect, like, REALLY? I wish they're both real.
Anyway, other than that, I really loved this book. Crista made me squeal again. All the scenes were great. They were perfect. I loved it. So much. Don't even get me started with Brett. My twitter was flooded with Brett's name and I just... ugh. I'd never think twice about reading this over again. And I'll definitely buy this series as soon as I can. (It's not available in PH, so... TBD is my only hope.)
I definitely recommend this to everyone who likes/loves quick reads. It's fun, witty, and really good. Alexis is so much fun to be with. I loved hearing her thoughts and I know you'd love her, too.
I already started recommending this to people I know, haha! I need someone to fangirl with. Come on, guys! Join me, please.
4.5 Stars -
I received this arc from Rockstar PR and I have to say I fell more in love with Brett Pederson. I am scared of Alexis’ s sister though that girl may not seem like she is smart but when it comes to social hierarchy and climbing it she is brilliant, cutthroat and devious. Alexis’s friends are just as fun.
this book picks up where the first left off. First I have to say Alexis I know your scared but girl get over it. Brett is amazeballs. He is sweet, kind, patient, smart and tenacious. I love how he doesn’t give up on Alexis and that he is true. He believes people on faith and is genuinely good. He loves his family and has a thing for Alexis. Alexis who is having a hard time resisting him but won’t trust him. Her grudge about Summer and his friendship with her keeps her back.
the book is a fun, light book that will have you smile as Brett works hard to get Alexis to see how great they would be together. The concert was awesome and how he opens up to her is swoony. So is the last one where they go on their first official date because everything else she called as non-dates. Him saving her was incredible and wonderful. It showed that even as she drove him away and did silly things he was there for her no matter what. She needed this to see the guy he really was and begin to see she trusts him.
Summer was as horrible as ever. Her using of Brett was so wrong to me. She really is a wretched being. Her manipulation of others and their emotions to get what she wants is awful and as much as I don’t agree with this I want Alexis’s sister to knock her out of the social pool.
The chemistry between Alexis and Brett is through the roof and the intimate scenes were just kissing but they were sweet and toasty at the same time especially since they were only friends according to Alexis.
Alexis is still a tough nut. she calls people out when she feels it is necessary. Helps the Band get a backbone. Has Brett admire her and she is a softy on the inside. She slowly thaws to Brett but still has a bit of distrust and wariness towards him because of Summer. They have some fun moments like the concert, the carwash and the times in class. Some serious moments like when he asks for help, the game and the party. But also some sweet moments where they are just Alexis and Brett with no expectations from anyone just being themselves.
A book that goes quickly and keeps you smiling and laughing as you fall more in love with Brett and get to enjoy watching Alexis succumb finally to how she feels towards Brett. A book about trust, honesty and liking someone but being afraid to let them in and show it. -
I have never met a girl more stubborn and strongheaded than Alexis. Damn that girl is immovable! But while I admit that I wanted to slap some sense into her at times, I also found her steel determination quite admirable. I love her fire, unwavering sass and independence. It was good to see a different side to her in this book though. She's always hiding behind her Queen B* facade that I grow to love her character even more whenever she shows her sweet, more vulnerable side.
I have always loved her friendship with Richard and Morgan. I hope there will be more of their amusing interactions and heart-to-hearts in the next book. I would also love to have more backstory for Morgan and Richard. They just seem like two very intriguing and fun characters and I would just love to know them better and witness their growth.
I was so frustrated when I got to the end of the book because from the first time I read this series I've wanted to see Alexis and Brett finally get together! The chemistry between these two was way off the charts and felt very real. If only Brett would show up at my door... *sigh*
From beginning to end, this book had me completely addicted to all the craziness, melt-in-your-bones romance and drama. I love Crista's perfect portrayal of highschool. I met my best of friends in highschool so I know how great it is but I also know it could be pretty terrible at times. With Crista's flawless and engrossing writing, it felt like I was right there experiencing everything with Alexis.
My only complaint stems from Brett's lack of flaw. He just seemed too good and too perfect to me. I wish the author left some more room for his character's development. Having said that though, it's just not possible to not fall in love with him. He's thoughtful, sweet, a great big brother and the kind of person you could count on no matter what.
Sorry Alexis but BRETT IS MINE.
I am IN LOVE with this series. Pretty please Crista, tell me this is a ten-book deal. (I would willingly walk through fire if that's what it takes.) *goes back to stalking the author*
I highly recommend that you start this series now!
I received an e-arc to read and review. -
4.25 out of 5 stars
The Queen B* Strikes Back was a great 2nd installment in Crista McHugh's The Queen B* Series. I enjoyed it even more than book #1. Maybe it's because we know Alexis better and we are rooting for her and Brett, even though she of course just wants to be "friends." She's seriously fooling herself and we as readers know it but seeing Alexis trying to sort out her feelings is what makes this story so good! Watching her navigate those tumultuous high school years while trying to deal with hormones gone wild are the perfect mix for a fun and addictive YA series.
Lexi may just want to be "friends," but Brett isn't ready to give up on her just yet. He seems to be the only one who can push her boundaries, she knows it, he knows it and he never lets up. I LOVE watching this girl fumble all over herself. Her brain is telling her one thing, her heart is saying another and she is spiraling out of control when she cannot keep everything at an arm's length.
Summer, her former best friend, had a pivotal role in pushing Alexis into becoming the Queen B*, but it's time for Alexis to break the mold. To be the person she keeps hidden away and not the person she created in order to survive the high school social hierarchy. Is Brett the one who will be able to break down her walls so everyone can get to know the real Alexis? Can he be trusted? And if so does she even want to trust him?
Author Crista McHugh has created some very endearing characters who are easily likable, who you will not be able to help but fall in love with. She sucks you into this story and it's like getting sucked into a good gossip chain. Once you get a little taste you won't be able to help but keep coming back for more and more. While this book ends on a high note, I am definitely not ready to end my time with the Queen B* and football star. I cannot wait to see where she takes us next! This series has me hooked and I'm highly recommending you take the bait as well!
http://www.romancerewindblog.com/2015... -
This book picks up where we are left at the end of
Confessions of a Queen B*. Alexis is working hard not to be vulnerable as it becomes clear that her feelings for Brett aren't going anywhere anytime soon. Brett respects her wishes to be friends, but soon they both realize that their attraction to one another is only getting stronger and the friends thing is going to be tough.
Alexis continues to worry about not only getting hurt herself, but also making things tough for Brett. she also continues to wonder if she can fully trust him. She is still finding it difficult to trust anyone who would associate with the person who betrayed her trust years back.
Alexis is prickly on the outside, but I think she is an easy character to relate to and enjoy. I definitely wanted her to find some happiness for herself and not have to keep up the tough exterior act all the time since it was taking a lot out of her. Brett continues to show that he is a good person, but there are moments that are a little confusing. I wanted him to be the person I was pretty sure he was.
There is no denying the chemistry between Alexis and Brett. Throughout the story I was really hoping that they would get their acts together and find the happiness in each other that they both deserve. I will definitely read more by this author in the future.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review -
Favorite Quotes:
“Brett was like sweet wine or chocolate. Too much could be a bad thing, but a little indulgence here and there was near heaven.”
“It was one of those Disneyesque moments when the bored prince at the ball finally sees his Cinderella, and the rest of the world fades away. The noise, the chaos, the crowds – they all vanished. He only seemed to have eyes for me.”
“Taylor backed away as though she might catch old-people-in-love cooties from them, but I couldn’t move.”
My Review:
I am adoring this series and already curious for the next installment. I enjoyed it so much I absorbed it rather quickly as I could not seem to put it down. Ms. McHugh does an excellent job of capturing the anxiety, thrill, uncertainty, and disappointment of new relationships, the fear of revealing one’s true self, and the special horrors of high school involving teenage cliques and power struggles. She has brought a fresh face to the vulnerabilities of that age and dressed her up as an intelligent mean girl, and despite my typical avoidance of anything YA... I am totally hooked. I want more - and quickly! -
**ARC provided by publisher for honest review***
LOVE LOVE LOVE this series! I don’t know why I love it so
much but I DO! It is like watching pretty little liars, when you
are past a certain age you know you shouldn’t but you do
anyway. I LOVE how the queen B is softening, I love that the
football great care for his little sisters and make pancakes! I
Love the antibully message and the love story that comes with
it. I can not wait to see what happens next, is Taylor going to
be like her sister or will she fall into the same pattern as
Summer? I know this can’t be the en, because I am enjoying it
too much. LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! -
I enjoyed The Queen B Strikes Back by Crista McHugh. Cristina had me remembering my high school days. I did not read the first book in the series, but I will be reading it now. I loved the story between Alexis and Brett. They are in two totally different groups, but are so into each other. Alexis is a blogger protecting the nerds of high school and Brett is the hot quarterback of the football team in the popular group. In high school these two should not be together...Will they be able to be a couple? If you want to find out, you will have to read it. I highly recommend this book and series.
I was given an ARC for the publisher, for my honest review. -
I have to start off saying that this book wasn't as great as the first. The first book was really sweet and introduced us to the characters and their personalities and the factors that shaped them. The second book, while was good too, had some flaws. However, don't let me review get you down so if you enjoyed the first book, I highly suggest you continue on to the second and third (which I just started ;)
I finished this book in a couple of hours just by doing reading sprints and I'm already on to the next lol.
Stop reading here to avoid spoilers
It wasn't all bad but some things didn't sit well with me. First, I didn't like how Lexi was sort of leading Brett on. She fell hard for him yet didn't want to date him because it was "foreign" for her. This is understandable and acceptable but what doesn't make sense is that they continuously act like a couple when not around their classmates. They went on two "non-dates" which were, for the most part, definitely not friendly. They're good for each other, it is obvious, but its either you follow your word about trying "friends" or you date him. The in-between just causes more problems and feelings getting hurt. The perfect example is when Summer (the typical, plastic bitch I might add lol) set them both up when she timed it so that Lexi would see her making out with Brett (she forced herself on him but still). Lexi got so hurt and started a chain reaction that almost got her so...no. She didn't have a claim on him even though they both liked each other. She turned him down countless times so she should not take it soo personally. Yes, she could be hurt and everything but she went to extremes here.
There was also a grey area with regards to why Brett continued making out with Summer. When Lexi saw them, she ran away and everything and we understood her side of the story, about how Summer set her up and everything. However, it isn't mentioned exactly why Brett didn't get her off of him and call her out on her bs. Or at least, if he did, it wasn't mentioned and Lexi never asked...That part was confusing because I was like: so why you keep kissing her bro? There wasn't talk about a huge scandal and Brett chewing out Summer for setting them both up. So that was a bit confusing.
Finally, I don't like her parents. They may seem cool and hip but honestly, they shouldn't be parents. They shouldn't be the examples being set for their daughters and portrayed in the book. McHugh took it too far I thought when . Don't get me started on the dad but let's just say that even if you wanted to paint a picture of a dysfunctional home, it could have been done better.
These are the things I didn't like but it was a generally good book without these things. I usually enjoy reading contemporary books about the high school social hierarchy and such so it was fun. Hence I finished it on the same day I started! -
Alexis and Brett really are entertaining/infuriating. They obviously fancy each other, get on well together but are determined to let others’ preconceptions get in the way.
From the start of the book we get lots of scenes with Alexis and Brett doing cute stuff together. There’s plenty of angst from their respective friends…and it really hammers home why school at this age can be pretty nightmarish.
Alongside the developments in their relationship, we’re treated to friendship issues, mum’s new boyfriend, the process of seeking support with college admissions and potential date-rape.
There may not be much new here, but the cut-throat nature of their high school was well depicted. She features sporadically, but sister Taylor is definitely one to watch - and potentially more scary than Alexis’s nemesis, Summer. Brett was quite adorable but definitely not quite the finished article. -
Good book. Love how it began right where it left off from the first book.
-
2.5 stars
A bit of a let-down compared to the first book but at least I reached the HEA/HFN. -
Yuhuuu.. Keknya doaku agak terkabul di buku 2 ini. Walau sangat lambat tapi akhirnya ada titik terang dalam hubungan tarik ulur melelahkan antara Alexis dan Brett ini. Walau Alexia masih penuh denial dan alasan-alasan, aku kagum lho dengan kesabaran St Brett dalam menghadapinya dan melayani tarik ulurnya. Sikap hot cold Alexis tidak melunturkan tekadnya untuk bisa mendapatkan hati gadis paling garang di sekolahnya.
Yah tema yang di tawarkan memang tidak baru. Isue yang ada di sini dengan mudah akan kamu dapatkan di banyak film remaja. Tapi aku suka cara menulis Crista yang ringan dan kocak. Selain itu, akhirnya Brett juga menampakan sedikit cela dari semua kesempurnaannya. Yay!! Trus buku ini juga lebih banyak memberikan pergolakan emosi daripada buku sebelumnya. Jadi aku berharap banget di buku ke-3 Crista akan memberikan ending smart dan epik untuk Alexis dan Brett. -
Once a Queen B* always a Queen B*?
In the second installment for the Queen B* series, we find Alexis Wyndham still struggling with her attraction to football star, Brett Pederson. This book takes place literally on the heels of the first book, so there is no lapse in action. Alexis is coming off of finishing a project for her High School Health class where she had to partner with Brett and share a ‘baby’ for two weeks. That was 2 weeks long enough for her to figure out that he puts a wrench into her role as the protector of the weak/Queen B**ch of school. Alexis writes a blog column, The Eastline Spy, where she happily uncovers all the ugly secrets and goings on of the popular crowd, school bullies and faculty/staff of her school. She’s dumbfounded by Brett’s continual attention until she uncovers his own penchant for nerdy…he’s a computer geek at heart. Alexis also discovers his love for his twin baby sisters and a fondness for making pancake breakfasts. This attraction begins in the first book and McHugh just deepens the attraction in Queen B* Strikes Back.
Brett refuses to give up on Alexis despite her misgivings about their relationship. She’s adamant that there is no way the popular kids will put up with him hanging out with her, much less dating her. She keeps saying that she doesn’t want to ’hurt him’, but in reality, it’s her own heart she’s protecting. In addition to this conflict, you also have Alexis’ prime nemesis/ex-best friend, Summer Hoyt, who will do anything to get Brett away from Alexis. Summer’s character is perfectly setup as the one you love to hate. She’s the beautiful, plastic, rich, Barbie head cheerleader who should really beat out Alexis as a queen b*. Some of the storyline is predictable, but in a fun, cringe worthy way as you know what is coming but can’t help but peek through your fingers as it happens. I definitely do not miss one bit of high school, lol. There is no wrapped up, HEA as this is definitely just one part of an ongoing series. I’m not normally a fan of these as I’d rather just wait and buy the whole anthology set, however, there is enough story to this book to make me feel like it was worth my while to read and then wait for the next set.
Another part of this particular story I liked was that there is a depth to Alexis that would be so easy to forgo when writing her character. In the first book, you get to understand her anger and defiance and what made her take on the role of Queen B*. In QBSB, I begin to wonder if she’s built her role up so strongly that now she’s trapped herself in this alternate personality. Brett has gotten her to admit to her softer side; however she only seems to show it when not in a public setting. Anytime she’s in a place where another high school student might attend, Alexis immediately has to put on her Queen B* robe. It makes me remember how hard high school can be, but more importantly how hard it is to be yourself and be vulnerable to hurt. No one wants to feel pain and Alexis has already had her share so the question will be: Can Brett get Alexis to throw away or lower her Queen B* shield?
Queen B* Strikes Back may give you a partial answer….
You could read this as a standalone, but I don’t think you would enjoy it as much unless you read the first book, Confessions of a Queen B*. Fans of the first book will love seeing Richard in all his ‘glory’ again, as well as Morgan and the rest of the Wyndham and Pederson crew.
I did receive a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. -
I must admit that I was a little surprised at myself when I signed up for the blog tour of Confessions. It isn't the type of book I gravitate towards frequently, but sometimes I need a good laugh and I thought it would have the potential. And it absolutely did make me laugh. Maybe swoon a bit. Definitely cringe! Anyway, when I received the email to sign up for the tours for this sequel and the final book, I had no choice. I am so hooked on this series, and I hope I can get a few others hooked on it too!
The Queen B* Strikes Back starts the morning after Confessions ends. Alexis is wondering if she made a horrible choice, telling Brett she just wants to be his friend. And it doesn't help when he shows up at her house, early in the morning, and carries her caveman style out of her house and drags her to a school sponsored car wash. When they arrive together, all activity ceases, and everyone stares. That reaffirms she made the right decision. After some competition between the various cliques for amount of money raised, a water fight breaks out. All of a sudden, Bretts arms are around Alexis.... and she runs. Thank goodness for best friends!
This book is more or less about Alexis going back and forth in her head about having a relationship with Brett. He does things that make her feel like she is special, and they would be perfect together, and then he does something completely opposite and she withdraws. It was an interesting give and take. Sometimes, I got frustrated with Alexis, but then Brett would do something and I was rooting for her completely, even though my heart was shipping them in a huge way. The dynamics between these two are hilarious, and swoon-worthy, and frustrating.... I loved every minute of it.
The growth that Alexis shows is also something that captured my attention. I love that she is starting to realize that she can still do good for the underdogs, without having to be a total B*. She really starts to grow in this book, and I very much enjoy watching her transformation. She is still this snarky, b* of a girl, but she also is learning about compassion. She deals with a lot in this story from her enemy, Summer, and she learns what betrayal feels like. She also goes through some really intense, scary situations, and everything works together to build her character and make her even more wonderful as an MC.
As for the other relationships in the story, Alexis and her sister Taylor are still not what you would call close. But towards the end, there is a big change in the sisters relationship that I can't wait to see play out. And Lexi and her BFF's are still such an odd trio, but I adore them.
Crista McHugh took a chance towards the end of the book, and I give her mad props for it. I think there are already a lot of life lessons wrapped up in this series, if you pay attention. But with this sequel, she brought something incredibly serious to the forefront, and I applaud her for it. It added some meat to the series, and I hope that continues on into book 3!
Okay, okay.. I know I have rambled for long enough. Just let me say one more thing. Well, two more. First, read this series! Give it a chance. If it isn't for you, that's alright. But I think it might just surprise a lot of people! And two, thank you so much to Rockstar PR for letting me be a part of this tour. Bring on Queen B* and the Homecoming King! -
4.5 stars!
I love a great story set in high school. Especially when the heroine is a spunky, snarky, take no prisoners kind of girl. Alexis is still a queen b* even if she is now (maybe) friends with the quarterback and golden boy at her school but things are just as unsettled as they were when they first got to know each other.
I really liked this second installment in The Queen B* series, it was well written and the story never got stale. I really liked how Lexi's comfort zone was really stretched this time. It's not just with making new friends like Brett, but it's also with her old friends, and things with her family. All of it has shaken her up, but not as much as her feelings for Brett. I got a little frustrated with Alexis for not dealing with her feelings regarding Brett, but I understood why she was so scared to admit her feelings for him. After all, her trust has been brutally betrayed before, so it makes sense she'd be so wary to put herself out there, especially since the guy who gives her the fuzzies is willing to be at the beck and call of the person for hurting her the most. I loved that Brett didn't give up on her, even when she was forcefully rebuffing him.
It was also great to see how the family dynamics were changing. I didn't like Taylor, Alexis's younger sister much in the last book, and while her personality didn't radically change, I started to warm up to her. She may really care for her sister somewhere in there after all. While I didn't actively dislike their mom, I wasn't much of a fan of hers either. It wasn't that she was mean or didn't care about them, it was just how she sprung a change in her personal life onto her kids. I was astonished at Alexis's critical thinking skills and they how quickly she was able to analyze and read the situation with her mom. I'm an adult and I don't have the skills she has, and I would love to have them!
This book was almost perfect, except for one plot point that I didn't think was handled properly. It involved an attempted sexual assault. I'm going to try really hard to not give anything away, but instead of it being handled the way it was, I would've preferred for their to have been legal repercussions, especially since a character alluded to the fact they didn't think it was the first time something like this had happened. Even thinking about what could have happened and how it was dealt with makes my chest tighten. It's really a very serious topic and I think a young adult book that will especially be read by young readers should treat it with the gravity it deserves.
Other than that, Crista McHugh knocked it out the park again. The story is still funny , gripping, and fast paced but it's also taking more serious turns and hopefully the next part will keep the balance. I would love to see Alexis take down more mean/evil people. If anything this book showed her more softer and vulnerable than before, but it also showed how others were as vulnerable as she in return. I'm really looking forward to seeing more of Alexis, Brett, and the gang. -
Another fun read in this YA series that had me laughing and cringing as I remembered what it was like to be in high school. There is a big dose of reality in these pages that really makes me happy that I don’t have to relive my high school years!
Alexis is still the Queen B*, but she’s beginning to doubt her initial assumption that she and Brett could never make a relationship work. She knows there is a physical reaction every time he comes near her, but she is still having a hard time trusting him and is really struggling with wanting to put herself out there and possibly get hurt. And of course Summer doesn’t help things with her manipulation of events, but Brett isn’t entirely innocent in all of it either.
Brett is still trying to convince Alexis to go out with him – even if he has to resort to non-dates and breakfasts with his family. I loved seeing his vulnerability as he asks Alexis for help with his essay writing. It was good to see that even though someone may appear perfect, there is always so much more going on beneath the surface.
I loved watching these two struggle to trust and understand each other. There are so many instances where miscommunication led to misunderstandings that I felt like I was right back in high school with these characters. Even though I wanted to keep yelling at Alexis to just let go and give Brett a chance, I loved the fact that one of her big concerns about them being together was what impact it would have on Brett. She does a good job at going all Queen B* at times, but underneath you can really see the person that Brett sees in Alexis.
The rest of the characters all added the additional depth to provide a realistic back drop to East Lake High School. I just loved Richard – he’s probably my favorite character. He’s fun, doesn’t take himself too seriously, and really knows how to put everyone around him at ease…and don’t let me forget he’s the life of the party – he’s everything you’d want in a best friend. He’s also great at keeping things real for Alexis. We didn’t hear too much about Alexis��s other friend Morgan, and I’m wondering if there will be any kind of fall out in the next book from Alexis’s frat party incident since it involved the guy that Morgan had dated. That whole incident was a bit of a stretch for me and seemed a bit out of character for Alexis, but I guess it just goes with the fact that these character are really young and do some really dumb things.
I loved where this book ended and look forward to seeing where the author takes us. There’s a lot of story for Alexis and Brett, as well as their friends, left to tell, and I’m looking forward to finding out what’s next.
As I mentioned with the first book in the series, I would recommend this book to any Young Adult romance lover, but would caution based on content for younger YA readers – there’s nothing totally explicit, but there are references that may be inappropriate for a younger audience.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review. -
***COPY GIFTED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***
☆☆☆☆☆ 5 Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
Alexis Wyndham is back and bitchier than ever in the sequel of Confessions of a Queen B*. The story continues after Brett Pederson gets the “let’s just be friends” answer from Alexis. There is no time lapse between books, so you start off exactly where you left off. In the last book, she rejects him because he doesn’t want to ruin his Golden Boy reputation; even after she realizes that there’s more to him than his reputation.
Although Alexis turned Brett down, it is revealed that she is actually afraid of getting hurt herself. Summer Hoyt, Alexis’ ex-best friend betrayed her and she did not want a repeat of that incident. Summer wasn’t too much of a problem in the last book, but she is one of the main source of complication in this sequel.
Brett continues to give Alexis chance after chance even after every argument, and their mutual attraction turns into a beginning of love. Even though their exterior images were cliche, their real personalities are very relatable. Alexis may be a bitch, but deep down she only puts up a tough exterior because she’s scared of being vulnerable. As for Brett, he’s the Golden Boy on the outside, but on the inside he’s a caring older brother that is pressured by his peers and father. I absolutely love the personalities of Alexis and Brett, and they bring out the best and worse in each other. There was so much romantic tension between them that I wanted to pull my hair out when Alexis still wouldn’t give Brett a chance, but that tension made the ending so much more exhilarating.
I could not put this book down, and enjoyed it very much! I highly recommend this series to readers looking for a high school love story between two people from completely different social circles. This series is so addicting you’ll fall in love with Brett and Alexis; when I was done reading I missed them already! Another fantastic book by Crista McHugh, and I am anticipating the next book!
REVIEW ALSO ON FOUR CHICKS FLIPPING PAGES BLOG
http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
♥TEASER MADE BY ME♥ -
Storyline: 5
Angst: 4
Tissue: 0
Value: 5
Panty Scorching: 0
Over All Rating: 4.25 Stars
Kindle eArc reviewed by Robin
This YA series continues where Confessions of a Queen B* ended. Alexis told Brett they should just be friends. His friends would never accept her. She would lose all credibility to keep the bullies in school in check. If they were a couple, they wouldn’t make sense even though she can’t stop thinking about kissing Brett. But he’s still friends with Summer, her former best friend turned nemesis. He’s still standing up for the popular kids. Can Alexis even trust Brett…especially with her heart?
“Had I really just screwed things up between Brett and me? And if I had, why did I care? After all, I only wanted to be friends with him, right?
But I did care. And for the exact same reason why I didn’t tell him to piss off yesterday once we turned in our class project. Or the same reason I’d dragged Richard with me to the football game last night. Or for the same reason I couldn’t wait to get home and snuggle with the shirt that smelled like him.
I’d fallen head over heels for Brett, but I was too much of a coward to admit it.”
I liked the second book in this series even MORE than the first. We have the same quirkiness in the third book but have the cute romance blossoming between Alexis and Brett. It is maddening that they continue to keep secrets between one another so we have misunderstandings. I may have wanted to kick them but they are seniors in high school. They are supposed to be making mistakes and learning from them. I loved that Alexis stayed true to herself and her mission to protect her fellow underdogs against bullies. She tries to champion injustices and isn’t afraid to stand up to anyone…even Brett.
Book two gives us a little more romance and I think bullying, alcohol and date rape were dealt with in a realistic manner. The story is definitely headed into the Mature YA territory. I can’t wait to see what happens next with this gang as they head toward graduation. -
I used my personal copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
5 deliciously angsty stars.
Young Adult age-range: 13+
After reading Confessions of a Queen B*, I immediately jumped into the next in the series- also reading it in one sitting. Hard to imagine, but I found it even more addictive, pages clicking by at a rapid pace.
Alexis is trying to keep Brett in the friend-zone, due to fear after the betrayal Summer dealt her. With her sister and Brett both acting as Summer's minions, she finds it difficult to trust two of the most important people in her life.
Alexis is a justice-seeker, the protector of the bullied, the girl who rights the wrong by showing those being led astray the errors of their ways. We all need an Alexis- the devil's advocate, the voice of reason, the harsh reality that removes the pretty lies we tell ourselves.
BUT, in her own life, Alexis is a train wreck due to the fact her fear won't allow anyone in. She listens to her gut, but then she ignores it when it matters most, showing she isn't a superhero after all. The heroine of this tale is a high school girl, but she tries her hardest.
This series is heavy with the morals, dished up in a way that no one would realize they were swallowing a heaping helping. As for the morality bent, it's shown in a realistic light- the pros and cons of any given situation. There is no element of preachy-ness to it whatsoever.
Brett is truly a good guy, but he suffers from being a 'guy'. They seem to be blind to the manipulations girls use. But in this, I kind of lose respect for Brett, because no guy is THAT blind. Instead of frustration, I rooted for Alexis when her inner monologue mirrored exactly what every young woman, and grown alike, need for self-respect.
Off to read the conclusion- I already one-clicked and was writing this review as it downloaded on my Kindle. As of right now, Alexis is one of my favorite young adult heroines. Let's hope the conclusion keeps her in that top position. -
Read the full review on
Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Rock Star Lit PR in exchange for an honest review.
This story takes place right after the events in Confessions of a Queen B* and leads readers back to the crux of Alexis's argument as to why she and Brett wouldn't make it as anything more than friends. Summer is, as usual, the manipulative queen bee that she tries to be and is desperately trying to get Brett's attention. I adore Richard Wang, one of Alexis's best friends, and the fact that he's supportive of Alexis but still able to honest with her when he thinks she's making a mistake. I liked seeing more progress in Alexis's relationship with her mother and sister, especially since she sees how similar the two are and how she's more like her father. She's also softer here, not as bitchy as before, which is obviously due to Brett.
While Alexis and Brett tended to stumble every now and again while making a go of their non-relationship, I loved these two together and their non-dates were cute. I may be more than double either of these characters' ages but I can appreciate a sweet romance and two main characters who seriously need to get their happily-ever-after. The third book in the series, The Queen B* and the Homecoming King, slated for release in December, hopefully gets Alexis and Brett (and fans of the series) there because I'm assuming Brett's going to be the Homecoming King, though I'm sure Summer will still cause trouble and I wouldn't be surprised if there'll be a twist or two. The Queen B* Strikes Back raised it up a notch and gets 4.5 stars, rounded off to five stars. ♥ -
YES! THEY FINALLY GET TOGETHER!! (don't know if I should mark this as a spoiler since duh, obviously they're mean to for each other and all that) but I am so happy by this book, I can't even begin to express how much I liked it.
It picks up from where the first one ended, and the story goes on from there. Of course, I liked the fact that I didn't have to re-read the first one to be able to know what was going on in this one, just by reading along I gradually remembered stuff. On the other hand, it was great to come back to all these characters, I really liked Brett and Lexi together, and Morgan and Richard and Taylor. They were all a great ensemble of characters, even if they only had small appearances throughout the story. On the other hand, while the first book had the whole deal about trying to figure out who was the culprit behind the peeping video, this one wasn't like that at all. I thought it was going to have another mystery or something that Lexi would have to uncover, but it didn't happen. There was a lot of romance and that was fine with me!
I hated the times when Brett would make it seem like he was on Summer's side and it made me seriously angry and sad for Lexi whenever her heart would break. But it was all worth it! This whole angst ridden, hot and cold, cat and mouse chase of a book was awesome because I knew both of the stories, and in the end when the finally got together, I was seriously jumping for joy.
I can't wait to read the next book where the Homecoming dance comes up, and maybe Taylor, Morgan, and Richard finally get their own worthy boyfriend! -
I read this novel in one sitting, and this didn't surprise me one bit as I read the first book in this series in two sittings. This is the second book in The Queen B* series, so I won't be able to discuss much about it due to spoilers. This novel picks up just after where the previous novel left off and everything became refreshed in my head very easily and quickly and the author did a great job of reminding the reader what happened in the previous book without repeating information in a boring fashion.
I found Alexis a little more annoying in this book, she seemed to fight the situation she was in for no good reason a lot of the time and this would have annoyed me a lot if I hadn't been so totally engrossed in the plot. I cried my eyes out for easily the last hour I spent reading this book, so I couldn't knock off any stars for an annoying character trait when the novel was able to have such a strong emotional reaction for me.
I enjoyed how this novel covered important darker situations that teens may find themselves in and I thought it worked great as a way to teach about how situations can get out of hand and how sometimes you need to trust your gut instinct.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book at least as much as the first and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the series. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoyed the first book, though I feel I should mention trigger warnings for rape, if that's a sensitive topic for you then I would exercise caution before picking this book up.
