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Say You'll Remember Me
When Drix was convicted of a crime -- one he didn't commit -- he thought his life was over. But opportunity came with the new Second Chance Program, the governor's newest pet project to get delinquents off the streets, rehabilitated and back into society. Drix knows this is his chance to get his life back on track, even if it means being paraded in front of reporters for a while.
Elle knows she lives a life of privilege. As the governor's daughter, she can open doors with her name alone. But the expectations and pressure to be someone she isn't may be too much to handle. She wants to follow her own path, whatever that means.
When Drix and Elle meet, their connection is immediate, but so are their problems. Drix is not the type of boy Elle's parents have in mind for her, and Elle is not the kind of girl who can understand Drix's messy life.
But sometimes love can breach all barriers.
Fighting against a society that can't imagine them together, Drix and Elle must push themselves -- Drix to confront the truth of the robbery, and Elle to assert her independence -- and each other to finally get what they deserve.
Elle knows she lives a life of privilege. As the governor's daughter, she can open doors with her name alone. But the expectations and pressure to be someone she isn't may be too much to handle. She wants to follow her own path, whatever that means.
When Drix and Elle meet, their connection is immediate, but so are their problems. Drix is not the type of boy Elle's parents have in mind for her, and Elle is not the kind of girl who can understand Drix's messy life.
But sometimes love can breach all barriers.
Fighting against a society that can't imagine them together, Drix and Elle must push themselves -- Drix to confront the truth of the robbery, and Elle to assert her independence -- and each other to finally get what they deserve.
452 pages, Hardcover
First published January 30, 2018
About the author
Katie McGarry
31 books12.8k followersKATIE MCGARRY is an award winning and critically acclaimed novelist of the Witches of the Island series (A Wicked and Beautiful Garden), the Pushing the Limits, Thunder Road, and Only a Breath Apart series and the standalone novel, Say You’ll Remember Me. Katie is a lover of music, happy endings, reality television, and is currently living out her own love story with her husband, three children, her affectionate dog, Rachel, and her very needy cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 996 reviews
Shelved as 'maybe'
October 11, 2017STANDING IN A NICE DRESS STARING AT THE SUNSET BABE
March 12, 2020
two of my pet-peeves are crappy parents and the unfairness of the US ‘justice’ system. and this book is serving these two things up on a massive buffet platter. but oh my gosh. elle and drix stole my heart, so it made up for having to deal with such annoyances.
my emotions just melt for forbidden love and rough backgrounds. would this kind of relationship work in reality? i doubt it. but i was rooting for them every step of the way. this also has great writing with a really important message. i love stories that focus on two characters with troubles and difficult home lives, but rise against their problems with the support of each other.
i know a lot of readers wont enjoy this book as much as i did, but i was in the perfect mood for this kind of story, so it really hit the spot.
↠ 4.5 stars
my emotions just melt for forbidden love and rough backgrounds. would this kind of relationship work in reality? i doubt it. but i was rooting for them every step of the way. this also has great writing with a really important message. i love stories that focus on two characters with troubles and difficult home lives, but rise against their problems with the support of each other.
i know a lot of readers wont enjoy this book as much as i did, but i was in the perfect mood for this kind of story, so it really hit the spot.
↠ 4.5 stars
August 13, 2017
*received an arc from KM*
Elle and Drix were so vibrant I swear I forgot I was reading about fictional characters. I ached for them, I cried for them, and I cheered them on from beginning to end. Authentic, edgy, and fraught with realistic, heartfelt conflict and romantic tension, Say You’ll Remember Me is a fantastic coming of age story and now on my favorites shelf for good!
Elle and Drix were so vibrant I swear I forgot I was reading about fictional characters. I ached for them, I cried for them, and I cheered them on from beginning to end. Authentic, edgy, and fraught with realistic, heartfelt conflict and romantic tension, Say You’ll Remember Me is a fantastic coming of age story and now on my favorites shelf for good!
January 16, 2018
4-4,5 STARS
It was a long time since I read a book by Katie McGarry and omg how much I missed her writing!Such a beautiful story, Say You'll Remember Me was a sweet and intense story.I loved the premise in this one and storyline was fantastic!The characters were lovable and realistic.
I adored Drix and Elle.Drix is something else, I loved him and I ached for him.His story is heartbreaking and from the beginning I fall in love with him.He is been to prison for a crime he did not commit, and now he is forced to be the face of the governor’s new Second Chance Program.He is sweet and he cares for his family.Elle on the other hand , she has an easy life as the daughter of the governor.This is what everyone is thinking but the truth is that her life wasn't perfect, she was controlled by her parents.I liked her, she is cute and lovely.I liked them together, they have an amazing chemistry and they make me swoon and melt with how cute they were.
This story isn't only about the romance,it's so much more!I loved it, the writing was flawless and the story compelling!If you are a fan of Katie McGarry you are going to fall in love with Drix and Elle's story!!
It was a long time since I read a book by Katie McGarry and omg how much I missed her writing!Such a beautiful story, Say You'll Remember Me was a sweet and intense story.I loved the premise in this one and storyline was fantastic!The characters were lovable and realistic.
I adored Drix and Elle.Drix is something else, I loved him and I ached for him.His story is heartbreaking and from the beginning I fall in love with him.He is been to prison for a crime he did not commit, and now he is forced to be the face of the governor’s new Second Chance Program.He is sweet and he cares for his family.Elle on the other hand , she has an easy life as the daughter of the governor.This is what everyone is thinking but the truth is that her life wasn't perfect, she was controlled by her parents.I liked her, she is cute and lovely.I liked them together, they have an amazing chemistry and they make me swoon and melt with how cute they were.
This story isn't only about the romance,it's so much more!I loved it, the writing was flawless and the story compelling!If you are a fan of Katie McGarry you are going to fall in love with Drix and Elle's story!!
January 31, 2018
***4.5/5 Stars***
Say You'll Remember Me was a beautiful, tragic, heartwarming story that had my emotions all over the place. I love that it reeled me in and that it felt as though I was right in the middle of their lives. I loved even more that I got to feel every single smile, hope, hurdle and soul crushing moment with them. So of course I found my heart beating faster at the tension between Elle and Drix. I wanted them to have more. So much more. Ohhh I absolutely loved Say You'll Remember Me and I can't recommend it enough!
Stepping into the story, I was already a goner for Drix. I always fall hard for the tortured hero, and he played the part so hauntingly well. You see, he spent the last year of his life paying for a crime he didn't commit. Which was robbing a liquor store. And he sacrificed himself to save one of those he loved. *clutches heart* When he was released back to his family, Drix was lost, broken and unsure of himself and how he fit back into his life. It wasn't until he met Elle, at the Midway, that he finally felt as though he could be himself. There was an ease between them that he wasn't able to find with his friends or family. But it was all so ironic, because Drix learned that Elle was the Governor's daughter. And Elle learned that Drix was the face and voice of the Governor’s “Second Chance” Program. They shouldn't be friends, let alone be anything more. Yet fate had other plans for them.
So even though they came from opposite worlds, they clicked. And the more time that Drix and Elle spent around each other on the campaign trail, a friendship easily formed. I loved that their friendship consisted of them being brutally honest while also throwing jabs at each other. It was impossible not to smile or laugh when they were near one other. But as time went by, we got pulled deeper into their lives. And we watched as hurt and pain bled from the pages. It all tore at my heart, and I can't even count how many times I cried or found myself sobbing. The struggles, heart ache, betrayal and revelations for both Drix and Elle rocked me to the core.
Thankfully we got to alternate between Elle and Drix. So while I fell hard for Drix, I also found myself loving every single thing there was about Elle. Elle was honest, strong, determined, found the good in people and she definitely didn't have a problem speaking her mind. Welllllll except certain moments with her parents. And those moments hurt to watch, because while she loved so strongly, her parents idea of love didn't always line up with mine. Thankfully she now had Drix in her life, because they found solace with one another. And that only pulled them closer together. Their slow burn romance was super addicting and when you add in that they were forbidden in a way, it just upped my obsession with them! Together they were sweet, sexy and such an honest relationship to watch unfold.
On top of Elle and Drix, there was side characters that I loved so much. Drix's "family" was beyond amazing. I'm definitely keeping my fingers crossed that maybe someday there will be another book about his sister, brother or even best friend?! Please?? Because I'd love to hear about their HEAs! So yes. I highly recommend this book! And that's huge for me since it had one of my triggers . Say You'll Remember Me was such a beautiful story of love, friendship, redemption and doing what's right, no matter the price. And I absolutely loved it!
*ARC kindly provided by Inkslinger/Harlequin Teen via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Say You'll Remember Me was a beautiful, tragic, heartwarming story that had my emotions all over the place. I love that it reeled me in and that it felt as though I was right in the middle of their lives. I loved even more that I got to feel every single smile, hope, hurdle and soul crushing moment with them. So of course I found my heart beating faster at the tension between Elle and Drix. I wanted them to have more. So much more. Ohhh I absolutely loved Say You'll Remember Me and I can't recommend it enough!
It’s like every time we try to dig out of a hole, someone’s shoveling more crap on top of us. There will never be a way out. - Drix
Stepping into the story, I was already a goner for Drix. I always fall hard for the tortured hero, and he played the part so hauntingly well. You see, he spent the last year of his life paying for a crime he didn't commit. Which was robbing a liquor store. And he sacrificed himself to save one of those he loved. *clutches heart* When he was released back to his family, Drix was lost, broken and unsure of himself and how he fit back into his life. It wasn't until he met Elle, at the Midway, that he finally felt as though he could be himself. There was an ease between them that he wasn't able to find with his friends or family. But it was all so ironic, because Drix learned that Elle was the Governor's daughter. And Elle learned that Drix was the face and voice of the Governor’s “Second Chance” Program. They shouldn't be friends, let alone be anything more. Yet fate had other plans for them.
“Do you always grow horns when you’re mad, or do you save that for me?” Drix stretches back out, too.
I sort of hate myself that my lips turn up. “Evidently just for you.”
So even though they came from opposite worlds, they clicked. And the more time that Drix and Elle spent around each other on the campaign trail, a friendship easily formed. I loved that their friendship consisted of them being brutally honest while also throwing jabs at each other. It was impossible not to smile or laugh when they were near one other. But as time went by, we got pulled deeper into their lives. And we watched as hurt and pain bled from the pages. It all tore at my heart, and I can't even count how many times I cried or found myself sobbing. The struggles, heart ache, betrayal and revelations for both Drix and Elle rocked me to the core.
“Elle, it’s okay.”
That’s the thing— it’s not okay. I’m seventeen years old, I don’t know who I am, and I don’t have any idea how to get my parents to take me seriously. I’m trapped, and I can’t breathe. - Elle
Thankfully we got to alternate between Elle and Drix. So while I fell hard for Drix, I also found myself loving every single thing there was about Elle. Elle was honest, strong, determined, found the good in people and she definitely didn't have a problem speaking her mind. Welllllll except certain moments with her parents. And those moments hurt to watch, because while she loved so strongly, her parents idea of love didn't always line up with mine. Thankfully she now had Drix in her life, because they found solace with one another. And that only pulled them closer together. Their slow burn romance was super addicting and when you add in that they were forbidden in a way, it just upped my obsession with them! Together they were sweet, sexy and such an honest relationship to watch unfold.
“Why can’t you be both?” she asks. “The guy who wants to kiss me and the good guy?”
On top of Elle and Drix, there was side characters that I loved so much. Drix's "family" was beyond amazing. I'm definitely keeping my fingers crossed that maybe someday there will be another book about his sister, brother or even best friend?! Please?? Because I'd love to hear about their HEAs! So yes. I highly recommend this book! And that's huge for me since it had one of my triggers . Say You'll Remember Me was such a beautiful story of love, friendship, redemption and doing what's right, no matter the price. And I absolutely loved it!
*ARC kindly provided by Inkslinger/Harlequin Teen via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
June 16, 2018
this first 60% of this book was SOLID, like 6 star material, i was 10/10 in love with the writing
it had forbidden romance and that slow burn that is just 👌🔥 but THEN WHEN THEY GOT TOGETHER idk i just felt like meehhhhhh
i liked the characters even though at some times they just felt somewhat forced into role.
I love the close-knit family and the deeper social issues we got to explore like the court & law ish, poverty, juvenile delinquencies, and neglect but the ending left me feeling really unsatisfied.
nonetheless, a decent end to a fantastic start and cover like that doesn't hurt.
4 stars!!
it had forbidden romance and that slow burn that is just 👌🔥 but THEN WHEN THEY GOT TOGETHER idk i just felt like meehhhhhh
i liked the characters even though at some times they just felt somewhat forced into role.
I love the close-knit family and the deeper social issues we got to explore like the court & law ish, poverty, juvenile delinquencies, and neglect but the ending left me feeling really unsatisfied.
nonetheless, a decent end to a fantastic start and cover like that doesn't hurt.
4 stars!!
June 9, 2020
*** Only $1.99!! ***
I freaking LOVED this book!!!! I couldn't put it down; seriously, damn sleep, I stayed up until 2 AM to finish this. 😍😍😍 The characters were complex, the storyline was addictive, and the writing was absolutely engaging.
This is one of those books where I love the heroine just as hard as the hero. Elle was an AMAZING female lead. She was so strong and I love how she took no shit...
Drix... *sigh* *sigh again* oh, how I loved him 😍😍 I'm such a sucker for a reformed bad boy, and he fit the bill perfectly! He struggles just like Elle does and I loved how they could bond over that even with their differences.
God, I loved watching her and Drix come to terms with the imperfect world they live in. They don't just accept it, but they don't reject it either. They learn that not everything is neat and simple. Good and bad aren't separate things that never intersect. I was seriously SO damn happy with their portrayals. They weren't annoying teenagers, and I think that was because the shit they went through did a lot to mature them. Yet they still had so much to learn.
One of my FAVORITE quotes EVER is this one:
Honestly I could go on and on and on. It was one of those books. The kind you want to shout about and beg everyone to read. So PLEASE READ THIS! Say You'll Remember Me is one of the best coming of age stories I've ever read and I will be counting down the days until I can read it again! 💜
Safety:
Closure:
I freaking LOVED this book!!!! I couldn't put it down; seriously, damn sleep, I stayed up until 2 AM to finish this. 😍😍😍 The characters were complex, the storyline was addictive, and the writing was absolutely engaging.
This is one of those books where I love the heroine just as hard as the hero. Elle was an AMAZING female lead. She was so strong and I love how she took no shit...
"Drix, you don't get to make me or my problems feel small. No one does. I'm not friends with people who want to make me feel bad about myself, my dreams or my goals."YESSSSS GIRL! Elle is wealthy and Drix's family has struggled, but that doesn't mean Elle's life is perfect and I love how she was able to recognize that and not let anyone make her feel guilty. Especially because she wasn't being overdramatic, she just wants to be heard by her parents.
Better. I'm supposed to be better. I'm always surprised to be better. Because who I am isn't good enough. Will it ever be?She's in the public eye and struggles a lot with what her responsibilities are and what she has a right to say no to. And the pressure is exacerbated by the fact that her parents keep pushing her farther into it.
"Why does being mature mean I have to let people treat me like crap, all while I smile and act like I'm grateful for being dumped on?"
"I don't know what's happening to me. I want to take coding classes, and I want an internship. But now, I don't know who I am. I've somehow become the girl who allows men to touch my body in unwelcome ways because they have power. I'm now the girl who stays silent when people say things that are offensive, and I'm the girl who gives her first kiss to a guy who makes may skin crawl. I don't know who I am anymore, but I do know I don't want to be this girl."I loved how the author wrote Elle's parents. They had a lot of depth and I must admit I never had a clear read on them. In the end I saw them just like Elle did: they're flawed but they still love her. It was truly impressive.
Drix... *sigh* *sigh again* oh, how I loved him 😍😍 I'm such a sucker for a reformed bad boy, and he fit the bill perfectly! He struggles just like Elle does and I loved how they could bond over that even with their differences.
I understand trying to please someone you think loves you. To keep that love, you keep twisting and bending yourself to become who they want you to be until you eventually break. There's a hole in them, a hole they need filled, and the way you to become the circle that will fit into them to make them complete, even thought you're a square.He does try to push Elle away (some), but it becomes obvious that they are simply drawn to one another. And even with the consequences, they can't stay away.
I'm willingly enduring hell for the chance that her eyes will meet mine one more time.There were times when some might have seen it as insta-love, but I never got that. Were they attracted to each other? Yes. But I think the deeper connection was more about recognition of each other's pain, than any kind of instant love.
God, I loved watching her and Drix come to terms with the imperfect world they live in. They don't just accept it, but they don't reject it either. They learn that not everything is neat and simple. Good and bad aren't separate things that never intersect. I was seriously SO damn happy with their portrayals. They weren't annoying teenagers, and I think that was because the shit they went through did a lot to mature them. Yet they still had so much to learn.
One of my FAVORITE quotes EVER is this one:
"You save the greater good when you save one person because then everyone realizes their individual life means something, too. Life has value then."It's a bit hard to explain why without going in detail to the plot, but this is one of the things Elle refuses to compromise on. Everyone kept telling her that sometimes sacrifices must be made for the greater good. That sometimes a single life wasn't as important as the collective. But she refused to budge. And while I understand what a few of the other characters meant, I absolutely admired her for standing by this principle.
Honestly I could go on and on and on. It was one of those books. The kind you want to shout about and beg everyone to read. So PLEASE READ THIS! Say You'll Remember Me is one of the best coming of age stories I've ever read and I will be counting down the days until I can read it again! 💜
Safety:
Closure:
February 15, 2018
What the heck did I just read? I'm off to listen to Wildest Dreams so that I can think of that instead of this book.
Also, someone please restrain me from stabbing everyone in this book.
Full review to come!
Also, someone please restrain me from stabbing everyone in this book.
Full review to come!
February 17, 2018
After thinking on my review and rating for a couple of days and recently finishing 'Crash Into You' I definitely think this is a 4 Star rating book.
I'm left absolutely floored by Say You'll Remember Me. Katie McGarry has written a novel that strips back characteristics of a person so they can truly see who they're meant to be. Elle and Drix are lost souls who find solace together, their love empowering them to make change.
I'm left absolutely floored by Say You'll Remember Me. Katie McGarry has written a novel that strips back characteristics of a person so they can truly see who they're meant to be. Elle and Drix are lost souls who find solace together, their love empowering them to make change.
February 15, 2018
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
I am quite a visual person when it comes to books and I like nothing more than a good cover. Katie’s McGarry’s latest release, a young adult offering titled, Say You’ll Remember Me features a striking cover image that served to draw me to this book. The image, with its vibrant pink and purple background, has a ferris wheel embellished across it. I think this ferris wheel works a solid metaphor for the events in this novel. Life is like a fairground ride, while thrilling and adventurous, it is full of ups and downs.
The leads of Katie McGarry’s Say You’ll Remember Me are two teens from very different backgrounds. Seventeen year old Ellison (Elle) lives a life of privilege. As the daughter of a prominent governor, Elle’s life is one of high expectation and intense attention. On the other hand, McGarry’s male lead, Hendrix (Drix), has always lived a life of disadvantage. He has suffered loss and hard times. When these two meet, through a chance encounter at a local fair, sparks fly immediately and despite their differences they are drawn to one another. Their attraction is short lived and hits an immediate roadblock when Elle’s family disapproves of their only daughter’s new relationship with an ex crim. Drix has secrets and he has taken the fall for a crime he didn’t commit. Despite this, Drix faces prejudice and opposition from Elle’s powerful parents and their political team. Drix is determined to prove his worth and his innocence. Meanwhile, Elle wants to rise above the expectations and rules her parents have set for her. It is a struggle for this young couple to achieve the love and life they both deserve.
I am a newcomer to the work of established young adult novelist, Katie McGarry. While flicking through the first pages of this book, I learnt that McGarry is the author of quite a detailed back list. She has two successful series under her belt. Say You’ll Remember Me is brand new stand alone novel, with fresh characters that do not seem to have any prior links to the Thunder Road or the Pushing the Limits series.
I appreciated the main themes of this novel. The issues presented were relevant, realistic and very contemporary. Teens will have much to relate to through the events that occur in this book. McGarry covers problems such as juvenile crime, drugs, peer pressure, parental expectations, societal expectations and class differences. Each of these themes are touched on with insight and sensitivity.
Say You’ll Remember Me is told from the shifting first person perspectives of primary characters Ellison and Hendrix. McGarry’s leads are contrasted very well. Although Elle and Drix come from opposite ends of the social spectrum, they seem to find mutual attraction and achieve common ground. Drix is a flawed character, but this makes him more believable and relatable. He also earns the reader’s sympathy. I liked his interactions with Elle and other side characters he directly comes into contact with. Elle, initially can be viewed as a typical spoilt little rich girl. However, beneath this initial image, is a young girl who is constrained by her parents, their expectations and society’s view of her. I enjoyed watching her break free from these chains and assert her independence.
Romance plays a big part in this novel. Elle and Drix fall quick and hard in love. Although they are attracted to one another physically, they do take the time to get to know each other and I thought this was a refreshing take on the typical hot headed teen romance. The developing relationship and love story between Elle and Drix is both equal parts sweet and sensual. Their chemistry radiates through the book, from their first chance meeting, until the poignant close of this novel. It is a love story not without its stumbling blocks, which is perhaps an accurate reflection of real life.
The added backdrop of an intriguing political atmosphere that surrounds main protagonist Elle, gives this book a solid edge. I liked how McGarry explored this territory and how it added pressure to both Elle as person and her budding romance. McGarry also explores the family dynamics that comes with being part of a high profile family, where everything and everything is put on the public spotlight. I thought this aspect of the book was handled very well by the author.
I can now see the wide appeal and popularity of author Katie McGarry after reading her new novel, Say You’ll Remember Me. It is a novel that contains a lesson or two in love, life, second chances and asserting your independence, which will especially appeal to the late teen target audience.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Books Australia for providing me with a copy of this book for review purposes.
I am quite a visual person when it comes to books and I like nothing more than a good cover. Katie’s McGarry’s latest release, a young adult offering titled, Say You’ll Remember Me features a striking cover image that served to draw me to this book. The image, with its vibrant pink and purple background, has a ferris wheel embellished across it. I think this ferris wheel works a solid metaphor for the events in this novel. Life is like a fairground ride, while thrilling and adventurous, it is full of ups and downs.
The leads of Katie McGarry’s Say You’ll Remember Me are two teens from very different backgrounds. Seventeen year old Ellison (Elle) lives a life of privilege. As the daughter of a prominent governor, Elle’s life is one of high expectation and intense attention. On the other hand, McGarry’s male lead, Hendrix (Drix), has always lived a life of disadvantage. He has suffered loss and hard times. When these two meet, through a chance encounter at a local fair, sparks fly immediately and despite their differences they are drawn to one another. Their attraction is short lived and hits an immediate roadblock when Elle’s family disapproves of their only daughter’s new relationship with an ex crim. Drix has secrets and he has taken the fall for a crime he didn’t commit. Despite this, Drix faces prejudice and opposition from Elle’s powerful parents and their political team. Drix is determined to prove his worth and his innocence. Meanwhile, Elle wants to rise above the expectations and rules her parents have set for her. It is a struggle for this young couple to achieve the love and life they both deserve.
I am a newcomer to the work of established young adult novelist, Katie McGarry. While flicking through the first pages of this book, I learnt that McGarry is the author of quite a detailed back list. She has two successful series under her belt. Say You’ll Remember Me is brand new stand alone novel, with fresh characters that do not seem to have any prior links to the Thunder Road or the Pushing the Limits series.
I appreciated the main themes of this novel. The issues presented were relevant, realistic and very contemporary. Teens will have much to relate to through the events that occur in this book. McGarry covers problems such as juvenile crime, drugs, peer pressure, parental expectations, societal expectations and class differences. Each of these themes are touched on with insight and sensitivity.
Say You’ll Remember Me is told from the shifting first person perspectives of primary characters Ellison and Hendrix. McGarry’s leads are contrasted very well. Although Elle and Drix come from opposite ends of the social spectrum, they seem to find mutual attraction and achieve common ground. Drix is a flawed character, but this makes him more believable and relatable. He also earns the reader’s sympathy. I liked his interactions with Elle and other side characters he directly comes into contact with. Elle, initially can be viewed as a typical spoilt little rich girl. However, beneath this initial image, is a young girl who is constrained by her parents, their expectations and society’s view of her. I enjoyed watching her break free from these chains and assert her independence.
Romance plays a big part in this novel. Elle and Drix fall quick and hard in love. Although they are attracted to one another physically, they do take the time to get to know each other and I thought this was a refreshing take on the typical hot headed teen romance. The developing relationship and love story between Elle and Drix is both equal parts sweet and sensual. Their chemistry radiates through the book, from their first chance meeting, until the poignant close of this novel. It is a love story not without its stumbling blocks, which is perhaps an accurate reflection of real life.
The added backdrop of an intriguing political atmosphere that surrounds main protagonist Elle, gives this book a solid edge. I liked how McGarry explored this territory and how it added pressure to both Elle as person and her budding romance. McGarry also explores the family dynamics that comes with being part of a high profile family, where everything and everything is put on the public spotlight. I thought this aspect of the book was handled very well by the author.
I can now see the wide appeal and popularity of author Katie McGarry after reading her new novel, Say You’ll Remember Me. It is a novel that contains a lesson or two in love, life, second chances and asserting your independence, which will especially appeal to the late teen target audience.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Books Australia for providing me with a copy of this book for review purposes.
January 30, 2018
It's been awhile since I've read a Katie McGarry novel and I'm just as convinced as ever that this lady can do no wrong. I have absolutely loved every book written by this author, and this one is no different! Say You'll Remember Me was exactly what was I craving at this time; the writing is as flawless as ever and once again featured realistic and relatable characters that are easy to get on board with.
Say You'll Remember Me follows Drix and Elle in a forbidden type of romance story. Drix being the boy from the wrong side of tracks, Elle the politicians daughter. This story is about learning who you are and embracing it. It's about family. It's about rising above societal expectations. It's soul touching.
Drix and Elle are both so strong on their own, neither overshadowing the other. The chemistry between our two protagonists is instant but it's not insta love by any means. Despite their very different upbringings, they gravitate towards each other and the more time they spend together, the stronger their bond grows. It's all very sweet and organic and I loved every minute of the fall. Being that their relationship is forbidden, there's definitely quite a bit of angst. And anyone who knows me know that I'm a SUCKER for angst! Give it all to me. It's not over the top but it absolutely has a presence here.
This story is so dang beautiful and emotional. The circumstances were frustrating to read about, I can't even imagine having to walk in either of their shoes. My heart hurt for Drix and the cards he was dealt and Elle for the expectations required of her. These characters are wise beyond their years and showed tremendous character growth, a Katie McGarry trademark. Reading any book from this author is a true delight and should be a staple in any YA collection.
If you've already been acquainted with McGarry's writing then this is another must read for you! If you've yet to take that plunge but love reading about teenage dynamics then again, this is for you! Say You'll Remember Me is an engrossing read that you're sure to fly your way through.
Say You'll Remember Me follows Drix and Elle in a forbidden type of romance story. Drix being the boy from the wrong side of tracks, Elle the politicians daughter. This story is about learning who you are and embracing it. It's about family. It's about rising above societal expectations. It's soul touching.
Drix and Elle are both so strong on their own, neither overshadowing the other. The chemistry between our two protagonists is instant but it's not insta love by any means. Despite their very different upbringings, they gravitate towards each other and the more time they spend together, the stronger their bond grows. It's all very sweet and organic and I loved every minute of the fall. Being that their relationship is forbidden, there's definitely quite a bit of angst. And anyone who knows me know that I'm a SUCKER for angst! Give it all to me. It's not over the top but it absolutely has a presence here.
This story is so dang beautiful and emotional. The circumstances were frustrating to read about, I can't even imagine having to walk in either of their shoes. My heart hurt for Drix and the cards he was dealt and Elle for the expectations required of her. These characters are wise beyond their years and showed tremendous character growth, a Katie McGarry trademark. Reading any book from this author is a true delight and should be a staple in any YA collection.
If you've already been acquainted with McGarry's writing then this is another must read for you! If you've yet to take that plunge but love reading about teenage dynamics then again, this is for you! Say You'll Remember Me is an engrossing read that you're sure to fly your way through.
February 9, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
He must believe there’s nothing in my skull beyond the beginnings of hair follicles.
It’s creepy hanging with you… It’s like you’re the Walking Dead. I’m half expecting someone to jump out with a samurai sword and slice out your heart.
“I don’t know how to get them to leave me alone.” I pause, then the bitterness leaks out as well as a grim grin. “At least not without a baseball and a well-placed throw. Some people shouldn’t be allowed to continue their genetics.”
What does being mature mean? Mature feels an awful lot like being tamed, and so far, I’m not caring for the view from my cage.
Andrew and I are barely friends, and most days I lean toward thinking he should be neutered.
Drix gives that dog anything he wants. I’m warning you in case you guys grow up, get married and have babies. When the zombie apocalypse happens, he’s saving the dog before he saves any of us.
My Review:
I was stunned and off-balance by how much I enjoyed this skillfully crafted, engrossing, and heart-squeezing tale. I was immediately sucked in by the engaging storytelling and quick to fall for these enticing and intriguing characters, although I occasionally wanted to give several of them a pop to the back of their head and lock the bratty sister in her room. I very rarely read YA since I don’t like being reminded of those claustrophobic and hopeless feelings due to being powerless to the forces of controlling and cruel adults. But I couldn’t seem to put this one down. Adulting may be hard but it’s ever so sweet to make your own choices once out from under a menacing or suffocating thumb, as was the case for these two diversely different teens. Both were miserable and under intense pressure and scrutiny but had completely dissimilar life experiences. Elle was a naïve and wealthy private school girl who had everything but freewill as she was little more than a trained monkey to her political parents’ dog and pony show. Hendrix was a cynically resigned, street-smart, and overly exposed delinquent fresh out juvenile detention. An unlikely pair who had been forbidden to interact while on the campaign trail, but of course, they meshed and became fast friends who eventually set off fireworks in their nether regions. I sighed with relief at the satisfying conclusion and certainly wouldn’t mind seeing the tale of this ragtag grouping further developed into a series.
He must believe there’s nothing in my skull beyond the beginnings of hair follicles.
It’s creepy hanging with you… It’s like you’re the Walking Dead. I’m half expecting someone to jump out with a samurai sword and slice out your heart.
“I don’t know how to get them to leave me alone.” I pause, then the bitterness leaks out as well as a grim grin. “At least not without a baseball and a well-placed throw. Some people shouldn’t be allowed to continue their genetics.”
What does being mature mean? Mature feels an awful lot like being tamed, and so far, I’m not caring for the view from my cage.
Andrew and I are barely friends, and most days I lean toward thinking he should be neutered.
Drix gives that dog anything he wants. I’m warning you in case you guys grow up, get married and have babies. When the zombie apocalypse happens, he’s saving the dog before he saves any of us.
My Review:
I was stunned and off-balance by how much I enjoyed this skillfully crafted, engrossing, and heart-squeezing tale. I was immediately sucked in by the engaging storytelling and quick to fall for these enticing and intriguing characters, although I occasionally wanted to give several of them a pop to the back of their head and lock the bratty sister in her room. I very rarely read YA since I don’t like being reminded of those claustrophobic and hopeless feelings due to being powerless to the forces of controlling and cruel adults. But I couldn’t seem to put this one down. Adulting may be hard but it’s ever so sweet to make your own choices once out from under a menacing or suffocating thumb, as was the case for these two diversely different teens. Both were miserable and under intense pressure and scrutiny but had completely dissimilar life experiences. Elle was a naïve and wealthy private school girl who had everything but freewill as she was little more than a trained monkey to her political parents’ dog and pony show. Hendrix was a cynically resigned, street-smart, and overly exposed delinquent fresh out juvenile detention. An unlikely pair who had been forbidden to interact while on the campaign trail, but of course, they meshed and became fast friends who eventually set off fireworks in their nether regions. I sighed with relief at the satisfying conclusion and certainly wouldn’t mind seeing the tale of this ragtag grouping further developed into a series.
February 21, 2018
Can we talk about that cover?! It’s gorgeous, I may have spent an inordinate amount of time staring at it, there’s something about those shades of purple 😍 Now that I got that fawning out of the way…
I don’t read all that much YA anymore, I have absolutely nothing against it, there was a time when I almost strictly stuck to the genre, but I’m at a point in my life where I can’t always relate to the trials and tribulations of teenagers. But sometimes I hear good things about an author or a particular book so I make an exception and I am SO glad that I did because not only did McGarry make me relate to her beautifully crafted characters, she made me fall a little in love with them.
This is told via alternate perspectives that flip back and forth each chapter, one is from Ellison, the daughter of a politician who lives a privileged life and then Drix, a kid who had the odds stacked against him from day one. They couldn’t be more different from each but I adored both and was impressed by how the author gave them both separate voices that rang true to that of a teenaged kid from their particular background.
This was a topical book that dealt with many issues that are relevant to youth today that managed to convey some fantastic messages in a nonjudgmental way. Parts of this broke my heart a little and then there were some surprises in the end with some intensity that I wasn’t expecting, I loved the highs and lows!
Say You’ll Remember Me in three words: Sweet, romantic and emotional.
I don’t read all that much YA anymore, I have absolutely nothing against it, there was a time when I almost strictly stuck to the genre, but I’m at a point in my life where I can’t always relate to the trials and tribulations of teenagers. But sometimes I hear good things about an author or a particular book so I make an exception and I am SO glad that I did because not only did McGarry make me relate to her beautifully crafted characters, she made me fall a little in love with them.
This is told via alternate perspectives that flip back and forth each chapter, one is from Ellison, the daughter of a politician who lives a privileged life and then Drix, a kid who had the odds stacked against him from day one. They couldn’t be more different from each but I adored both and was impressed by how the author gave them both separate voices that rang true to that of a teenaged kid from their particular background.
This was a topical book that dealt with many issues that are relevant to youth today that managed to convey some fantastic messages in a nonjudgmental way. Parts of this broke my heart a little and then there were some surprises in the end with some intensity that I wasn’t expecting, I loved the highs and lows!
Say You’ll Remember Me in three words: Sweet, romantic and emotional.
May 31, 2018
RECENSIONE COMPLETA QUI: https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/...
Hendrix Pierce ha trascorso un anno della sua vita in carcere, pagando per un crimine che non ha commesso. Quando viene rilasciato, Drix si sente perso, rotto e insicuro di se stesso e di come è cambiata la sua vita e le sue aspettative. Ha sofferto per perdite e tempi difficili e ora è costretto ad essere il volto del nuovo programma di riabilitazione del governatore del Kentucky. Ellison Monroe è una diciasettenne che vive una vita di privilegi. Come figlia del governatore, la vita di Elle è sotto l'attenzione mediatica e dell'opinione pubblica. Ha tutto ciò di cui ha bisogno: una vita agiata, un tetto sicuro e una famiglia che le vuole il bene dell’anima. Questo è ciò che tutti pensano e che appare dall'esterno, ma in realtà la sua vita non è affatto perfetta, la sua vita è controllata dai suoi genitori che la soffocano e le tarpano le ali. Elle è ricca e la famiglia di Drix ha faticato per arrivare dove è ora, ma questo non significa che la vita di Elle sia perfetta. Ho amato come lei è stata in grado di riconoscerlo e di non lasciare che qualcuno la facesse sentire colpevole. Quando Elle e Drix si incontrano durante una fiera locale, sentono di attrarsi come calamite, nonostante le loro differenze. Non dovrebbero essere amici, non dovrebbero neanche avvicinarsi. Eppure il destino ha altri piani per loro. Solo quando Drix è con Elle, si sente veramente se stesso. Anche se provengono da mondi opposti, più tempo passano insieme e più comincia a crearsi quel legame indissolubile d'amicizia. Ma col passare del tempo, la loro amicizia si spinge più a fondo nelle loro vite. La loro attrazione però si scontra con la famiglia di Elle che disapprova il rapporto della loro unica figlia con un ex criminale.
Quella di Hendrix e Ellison è una storia d'amore con molti ostacoli, che rispecchia le difficoltà di una relazione della vita reale. Drix affronta il pregiudizio e l'opposizione dei genitori di Elle ma è determinato a dimostrare il suo valore e la sua innocenza. Nel frattempo, Elle vuole superare le aspettative e le regole che i suoi genitori le hanno imposto. Mi è piaciuto vederla liberarsi da queste catene e affermare la sua indipendenza. Ho adorato il modo in cui l'autore descrive i genitori di Elle: ogni genitore cerca di fare il bene e dare il meglio ai propri figli ma molto spesso sbagliano perché non capiscono le esigenze, i desideri e i sogni dei figli. Alla fine li ho visti proprio come Elle: imperfetti e con tanto amore da donarle. La McGarry esplora le dinamiche familiari, i problemi come il crimine giovanile, le aspettative dei genitori e della società e le differenze di classi sociali. Ognuno di questi temi viene affrontato con intuizione e sensibilità. La storia contiene molti cliché, ma è comunque una storia piacevole. La prima parte risulta assai lenta e se vogliamo dire anche un po' noiosa ma dalla seconda parte ingrana e ci si lascia coinvolgere dalle emozioni dei protagonisti. Dimmi che ti ricorderai di me è una storia di amore, amicizia, redenzione, di scelte giuste e sbagliate, di seconde possibilità e di affermazione della propria indipendenza. La vita è come un giro sulle montagne russe: è elettrizzante e avventurosa ma al tempo stesso è piena di alti e bassi e noi dobbiamo essere pronti alla sua imprevedibilità...
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
Hendrix Pierce ha trascorso un anno della sua vita in carcere, pagando per un crimine che non ha commesso. Quando viene rilasciato, Drix si sente perso, rotto e insicuro di se stesso e di come è cambiata la sua vita e le sue aspettative. Ha sofferto per perdite e tempi difficili e ora è costretto ad essere il volto del nuovo programma di riabilitazione del governatore del Kentucky. Ellison Monroe è una diciasettenne che vive una vita di privilegi. Come figlia del governatore, la vita di Elle è sotto l'attenzione mediatica e dell'opinione pubblica. Ha tutto ciò di cui ha bisogno: una vita agiata, un tetto sicuro e una famiglia che le vuole il bene dell’anima. Questo è ciò che tutti pensano e che appare dall'esterno, ma in realtà la sua vita non è affatto perfetta, la sua vita è controllata dai suoi genitori che la soffocano e le tarpano le ali. Elle è ricca e la famiglia di Drix ha faticato per arrivare dove è ora, ma questo non significa che la vita di Elle sia perfetta. Ho amato come lei è stata in grado di riconoscerlo e di non lasciare che qualcuno la facesse sentire colpevole. Quando Elle e Drix si incontrano durante una fiera locale, sentono di attrarsi come calamite, nonostante le loro differenze. Non dovrebbero essere amici, non dovrebbero neanche avvicinarsi. Eppure il destino ha altri piani per loro. Solo quando Drix è con Elle, si sente veramente se stesso. Anche se provengono da mondi opposti, più tempo passano insieme e più comincia a crearsi quel legame indissolubile d'amicizia. Ma col passare del tempo, la loro amicizia si spinge più a fondo nelle loro vite. La loro attrazione però si scontra con la famiglia di Elle che disapprova il rapporto della loro unica figlia con un ex criminale.
Quella di Hendrix e Ellison è una storia d'amore con molti ostacoli, che rispecchia le difficoltà di una relazione della vita reale. Drix affronta il pregiudizio e l'opposizione dei genitori di Elle ma è determinato a dimostrare il suo valore e la sua innocenza. Nel frattempo, Elle vuole superare le aspettative e le regole che i suoi genitori le hanno imposto. Mi è piaciuto vederla liberarsi da queste catene e affermare la sua indipendenza. Ho adorato il modo in cui l'autore descrive i genitori di Elle: ogni genitore cerca di fare il bene e dare il meglio ai propri figli ma molto spesso sbagliano perché non capiscono le esigenze, i desideri e i sogni dei figli. Alla fine li ho visti proprio come Elle: imperfetti e con tanto amore da donarle. La McGarry esplora le dinamiche familiari, i problemi come il crimine giovanile, le aspettative dei genitori e della società e le differenze di classi sociali. Ognuno di questi temi viene affrontato con intuizione e sensibilità. La storia contiene molti cliché, ma è comunque una storia piacevole. La prima parte risulta assai lenta e se vogliamo dire anche un po' noiosa ma dalla seconda parte ingrana e ci si lascia coinvolgere dalle emozioni dei protagonisti. Dimmi che ti ricorderai di me è una storia di amore, amicizia, redenzione, di scelte giuste e sbagliate, di seconde possibilità e di affermazione della propria indipendenza. La vita è come un giro sulle montagne russe: è elettrizzante e avventurosa ma al tempo stesso è piena di alti e bassi e noi dobbiamo essere pronti alla sua imprevedibilità...
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
April 18, 2018
WTF
Seriously, WHAT. THE. FUCK.
Now bear in mind, I am alone in this assessment. Right now, this book is sitting at 4 stars and I do not understand it.
So I guess, there’s a good chance this may work for you…
Who knows.
And more power to you if you do. Its much more fun to love a book than to finish and wonder what the fuck you're doing with your life.
Alright let’s get to it…
What I liked:
Literally. Nothing.
What I disliked:
The Plot: Really… What plot. I mean, honestly. Its a slow, dragged out descent into nothingness.
The Characters: I literally hated every person in this book.
Elle is a blue-eyed, blond hair gorgeous 17 year old who has no personality outside of this and has apparently never had chicken wings or been kissed.
And she writes code… Kinda. And likes dogs. And she wears glasses. She’s so dorky and relatable.
Drix is your average ~bad boy~ who dresses like its 1994 with his combat boots and has a chain wallet. So you know he’s bad. And he has some MAJOR anger issues.. Which the book portray as romantic, but I was not a fan.
Elle’s parents are pretty much just the parents from the Notebook. We didn’t get to the mom’s backstory about the time she too fell in love with a guy from the wrong side of the tracks… But I’m sure if this wasn’t already almost 500 pages long, we would have gotten there.
And I honestly can’t even remember the rest of the characters and I JUST finished this book. That’s how well developed and meaningful these characters are.
"This isn’t a Lifetime movie, this is real life."
I mean, if you say so, but this feels like every cheesy Lifetime movie I’ve ever seen. But not as enjoyable. Not a single character resembles a person I've ever met in real life... But I've seen characterized in many, many Lifetime movies.
Other issues:
Rampant sexism. Like - holy shit. I'm honestly surprised a lot of this was allowed to go to print. I don't know when this was set, but its a pre-Me Too/pro-chain wallet time. And its not a time I want to go back to.
Seriously, WHAT. THE. FUCK.
Now bear in mind, I am alone in this assessment. Right now, this book is sitting at 4 stars and I do not understand it.
So I guess, there’s a good chance this may work for you…
Who knows.
And more power to you if you do. Its much more fun to love a book than to finish and wonder what the fuck you're doing with your life.
Alright let’s get to it…
What I liked:
Literally. Nothing.
What I disliked:
The Plot: Really… What plot. I mean, honestly. Its a slow, dragged out descent into nothingness.
The Characters: I literally hated every person in this book.
Elle is a blue-eyed, blond hair gorgeous 17 year old who has no personality outside of this and has apparently never had chicken wings or been kissed.
And she writes code… Kinda. And likes dogs. And she wears glasses. She’s so dorky and relatable.
Drix is your average ~bad boy~ who dresses like its 1994 with his combat boots and has a chain wallet. So you know he’s bad. And he has some MAJOR anger issues.. Which the book portray as romantic, but I was not a fan.
Elle’s parents are pretty much just the parents from the Notebook. We didn’t get to the mom’s backstory about the time she too fell in love with a guy from the wrong side of the tracks… But I’m sure if this wasn’t already almost 500 pages long, we would have gotten there.
And I honestly can’t even remember the rest of the characters and I JUST finished this book. That’s how well developed and meaningful these characters are.
"This isn’t a Lifetime movie, this is real life."
I mean, if you say so, but this feels like every cheesy Lifetime movie I’ve ever seen. But not as enjoyable. Not a single character resembles a person I've ever met in real life... But I've seen characterized in many, many Lifetime movies.
Other issues:
Rampant sexism. Like - holy shit. I'm honestly surprised a lot of this was allowed to go to print. I don't know when this was set, but its a pre-Me Too/pro-chain wallet time. And its not a time I want to go back to.
February 15, 2018
Check out more reviews @ Perspective of a Writer...
Drix gets a second chance through the governor's special program as long as he's willing to parade himself in front of reporters as a convicted criminal for a crime he didn't commit. Elle, as the governor's daughter has a life of privilege which is stifling. When they find themselves meeting again and again their attraction creates sparks, and they decide to give love a try.
The short review...
This is a sweet romance with a bunch of the things I love best! Opposites attract romance. A light mystery in the background. Strong family dynamics on both sides that aren't perfect but are also loving. And finally, little Thor, a pup who comes into the couple's life and creates a reason for them to come together!! AWWWW!!! I love animals in books and this one is a heartbreakingly beautiful part of the story. The details really made this book pop!
Another aspect that was fascinating and a little different was the media attention due to Elle being the governor's daughter. I'm not really a fan of politics but these two elements created a situation where their romance really was forbidden despite this being a contemporary book! It also made Elle and Drix able to react to their situations in such a way that was compelling and showed their growth as individuals. I really enjoyed how this story came together so naturally! This is an author I'd read again in a heartbeat!!
Cover & Title grade -> C+
I can tell that the graphic designer who created this cover took some time to craft that title around the Ferris wheel and try to make the cover look complete. I can't say I like it much. The photography isn't bad but the fonts are old fashioned and don't suite the modern politically fused story at all. The author's name (which is a major draw) is too front and center and in that ugly Times New Roman like font! Plus I can't say I even understand that title! I was puzzled by it the entire book and never really understood what it was referencing. None of it won me over...
Why were the details so WOWing?
I love a book that empowers!
Family is a powerful force in our life and even while they love us they aren't always the best influence. Elle's parents give her a really nice life with their money and social standing but they also caused her to doubt her own instincts and struggle to commit for fear of failure. Drix becoming a part of their lives is this catalyst that gives her a reason to make a stand and make it NOW or lose herself once and for all...
I love a book that hopes for the better!
Drix's family is totally ready and willing to support him in whatever he chooses, but they also expect the same in return, even if they're making poor ones. And after going through the program and finding himself Drix is ready to hurl himself on a spear for his family and for Elle when he realizes he wants her to be more. Sometimes the best option is to face whatever is coming and wish for the best and Drix learns that lesson the hard way.
I love a book that surprises me!
The way the politics worked so well in the story was unexpectedly compelling. The mystery wasn't too obvious and came up in just the right moments to add a punch. The way the two families compared and contrasted each other, showing the strengths and weaknesses of both. The end was nothing what I expected but also exactly what I wanted. For a romance that could have been all cliche this was heartfelt and redemptive.
As a Writer...
I couldn't give the book a perfect rating because some things were a little too pat and a little too easy. For example, the end while it tried to end realistically was a little perfect. A tiny bit of compromise was made but not like real life. There was a little brutality that broke my heart but that wasn't even addressed! I want ALL of the characters to go onto happy lives but life just isn't as perfect as this ended.
On the other hand I really enjoyed how naturally events came together so they could spend time together. its hard for a romance like this to not read contrived at least on some level but the time they spent together was made of authentic moments!
Drix and Elle are a sweet opposites attract couple who worked through their doubts, fears and hangups to hold hands as they enter the future. You'll fall in love with little Thor and Drix's entire self made family despite the politics that thread through their story!
⋆ ⋆ ⭐⭐⭐ Authenticity
⋆ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Writing Style
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Plot & Pacing
⋆ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ World Building
BOTTOM LINE: Politics + A puppy + Music and Breaking Free = Sweet, Sweet Love
Thanks to Inkslinger PR and the publisher for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review. It has not influenced my opinion.
______________________
You can find this review and many others on my book blog @ Perspective of a Writer. See my special perspective at the bottom of my reviews under the typewriter...
November 14, 2017
I enjoyed this one a lot!!!! I love Katie McGarry's books and never feel disappointed by them. This one is no different! It's a quick read and an easy escape from reality. Cannot wait for her next release. A must-read!!!
February 22, 2018
THIS REVIEW ALSO FEATURES ON MY BLOG
Trigger Warnings: neglectful parents, drugs, alcohol, violence, abuse (parental & relationship), death of animal
R E V I E W
I wasn’t expecting to actually enjoy Say You’ll Remember Me. I was a big fan of the authors works a couple of years ago but when I read her most recent novel last year I DNF’ed it. It just wasn’t sitting well with me. Say You’ll Remember Me has brought me back to Katie McGarry’s works. I absolutely loved it. It was such a nice surprise. I honestly recommend it for fans of The Unexpected Everything by Morgan Matson. It has a similar political parent feature throughout with the even better inclusion of dogs. If you know me, you know I love dogs.
The book is told in two separate POV’s, Drix and Elle. It follows a similar prose of all Katie McGarry books where two ‘broken’ people come together in unlikely situations and have to fight to be together. It is honestly a cliché and not of the norm of the other books of Katie’s but it is enjoyable nonetheless. In this case, Elle is the daughter of a politician who is looking to raise their status so she has joined the campaign to help her mother her father. Drix is also helping in this campaign. However, he’s promoting something that is called the Second Chance Program which provides young adults with a plea deal in order for them to get out of jail earlier by following certain criteria. Drix takes the plea bargain after he is framed for a crime he was too high and drunk to commit. The plea basically means he needs to stand there and talk about how great the program is and that it does work – which, he truly does believe. However, problems occur when the truth starts coming out. Not just for Drix, but for Elle. Add in an adorable puppy named Thor and you have a book about family, drama and how some people come into your life for a reason.
Say You’ll Remember Me was really enjoyable. There’s not much else I can say to stress this point that I won’t be discussing a bit later in this review. I did have some problems throughout, but that is typical. So, I guess, let’s jump into what I did and didn’t like about Say You’ll Remember Me by Katie McGarry.
L I K E S
✗ DOG HAS THE BEST NAME
I really had to mention this. I don’t know why. But, when the dog of the book is named I quite literally screamed. I mentioned before that Drix and Elle named the dog Thor. Which, just so happens to be the name of my own dog (a big Rottweiler x German Shepherd). I really formed an emotional attachment with this dog throughout the book. I really think it contributed to how much I enjoyed this book too – similarly to when there’s a book character with the name Amber.
✗ TWO UNLIKELY PEOPLE FIND EACH OTHER
I’m a sucker for this storyline when it’s done right. Katie McGarry can do it right. I dislike her element in which the person ‘fixes’ the other person, or that love heals them. But, that doesn’t take away from what a slow burn romance she can write. It honestly has me itching since around 50% the characters still hadn’t kissed despite how many moments there were for the perfect moment. Both characters have such struggles though, but coming from rich and poor worlds it would have been unlikely for them to meet any other time. I just love when a chance occurrence rockets two characters into a happily ever after. I am a major cynic, but it really warms my heart.
✗ EXCELLENT WRITING
This is what makes the whole book. Katie McGarry can write. There is such a relatable feeling to her writing when you fall into it. It’s easy to read and absolutely devour in one sitting, something I love. Having read her first book Pushing the Limits its really clear to see how she has grown over the years with her writing and just wow.
✗ CHARACTERS ARE AMAZING
I don’t mean this in just terms of Drix and Elle. Drix’s family and Elle’s family are so well developed that you feel as if they’re people you actually know. From the controlling family to the family that you create that isn’t blood, it was really beautiful. Everyone is a little flawed, a little crass and definitely not perfect. No one is one represented in that way and I just loved it. It is honestly just so enjoyable to read characters that come to life in my mind. I really love side characters as well, I find they can either make or break the story and Katie McGarry crushed the side characters in Say You’ll Remember Me.
D I S L I K E S
✗ WTF ARE THESE CLOTHES DESCRIPTIONS
Honestly, what the fuck, Katie? I think I read ‘wallet chain’ like twelve times. I’m not sure how America works or what the latest styles are over there but being relatively poor over here in Australia I was very disturbed by a ‘wallet chain’. I think the only people I’ve ever actually seen with a wallet chain have been drug dealers. Maybe not even then. Honestly. The clothing descriptions felt very out-dated and irrelevant when they were brought up. I just am not here for the 80’s gangster style making a come back. No thank you.
✗ NO CLEAR ANSWERS
There aren’t exactly any clear answers at the end of Say You’ll Remember Me. By this I mean it is fucking open-ended. I hope this means Katie is at least thinking about extending this into a series that features each of Drix’s family members. I would love that. But, my point is we never find out anything by the end of Say You’ll Remember Me. Relationships have been ruined and we are left unsure if they will ever be repaired. I just really hate finishing a contemporary and not having all the answer. I just want a nice epilogue that explains every loose end in the story.
✗ DISAPPEARING FRIEND ACT
This point gets mentioned in quite a few of my reviews. Katie McGarry really highlighted this point with Elle. Drix has his friends that make up his family and two of his half-siblings. What we don’t get are Elle’s friends. They’re mentioned briefly, that Elle text them when one of the many scandals surrounding her were released. Other then that? Nothing. They don’t seem too concerned and Elle doesn’t think about them at all. I just wish we would get more girls with friends before a boy being included in the equation. I understand Elle bonds with Drix’s sister, but it’s not enough.
Overall, I really loved Say You’ll Remember me. It was a passionate, fast and beautiful read. I can’t help but recommend it if you’re looking for a fluffy read with a tad more depth, possibly even a slight mystery. It has it’s triggers though (as mentioned at the beginning of this review), so make sure to check them out if you choose to read this!
Also, if you're looking to buy any books over at Book Depository, feel free to use my affiliate link! I gain a small 5% commission at no extra cost to you. It would really help me out!
Trigger Warnings: neglectful parents, drugs, alcohol, violence, abuse (parental & relationship), death of animal
R E V I E W
I wasn’t expecting to actually enjoy Say You’ll Remember Me. I was a big fan of the authors works a couple of years ago but when I read her most recent novel last year I DNF’ed it. It just wasn’t sitting well with me. Say You’ll Remember Me has brought me back to Katie McGarry’s works. I absolutely loved it. It was such a nice surprise. I honestly recommend it for fans of The Unexpected Everything by Morgan Matson. It has a similar political parent feature throughout with the even better inclusion of dogs. If you know me, you know I love dogs.
The book is told in two separate POV’s, Drix and Elle. It follows a similar prose of all Katie McGarry books where two ‘broken’ people come together in unlikely situations and have to fight to be together. It is honestly a cliché and not of the norm of the other books of Katie’s but it is enjoyable nonetheless. In this case, Elle is the daughter of a politician who is looking to raise their status so she has joined the campaign to help her mother her father. Drix is also helping in this campaign. However, he’s promoting something that is called the Second Chance Program which provides young adults with a plea deal in order for them to get out of jail earlier by following certain criteria. Drix takes the plea bargain after he is framed for a crime he was too high and drunk to commit. The plea basically means he needs to stand there and talk about how great the program is and that it does work – which, he truly does believe. However, problems occur when the truth starts coming out. Not just for Drix, but for Elle. Add in an adorable puppy named Thor and you have a book about family, drama and how some people come into your life for a reason.
Say You’ll Remember Me was really enjoyable. There’s not much else I can say to stress this point that I won’t be discussing a bit later in this review. I did have some problems throughout, but that is typical. So, I guess, let’s jump into what I did and didn’t like about Say You’ll Remember Me by Katie McGarry.
L I K E S
✗ DOG HAS THE BEST NAME
I really had to mention this. I don’t know why. But, when the dog of the book is named I quite literally screamed. I mentioned before that Drix and Elle named the dog Thor. Which, just so happens to be the name of my own dog (a big Rottweiler x German Shepherd). I really formed an emotional attachment with this dog throughout the book. I really think it contributed to how much I enjoyed this book too – similarly to when there’s a book character with the name Amber.
✗ TWO UNLIKELY PEOPLE FIND EACH OTHER
I’m a sucker for this storyline when it’s done right. Katie McGarry can do it right. I dislike her element in which the person ‘fixes’ the other person, or that love heals them. But, that doesn’t take away from what a slow burn romance she can write. It honestly has me itching since around 50% the characters still hadn’t kissed despite how many moments there were for the perfect moment. Both characters have such struggles though, but coming from rich and poor worlds it would have been unlikely for them to meet any other time. I just love when a chance occurrence rockets two characters into a happily ever after. I am a major cynic, but it really warms my heart.
✗ EXCELLENT WRITING
This is what makes the whole book. Katie McGarry can write. There is such a relatable feeling to her writing when you fall into it. It’s easy to read and absolutely devour in one sitting, something I love. Having read her first book Pushing the Limits its really clear to see how she has grown over the years with her writing and just wow.
✗ CHARACTERS ARE AMAZING
I don’t mean this in just terms of Drix and Elle. Drix’s family and Elle’s family are so well developed that you feel as if they’re people you actually know. From the controlling family to the family that you create that isn’t blood, it was really beautiful. Everyone is a little flawed, a little crass and definitely not perfect. No one is one represented in that way and I just loved it. It is honestly just so enjoyable to read characters that come to life in my mind. I really love side characters as well, I find they can either make or break the story and Katie McGarry crushed the side characters in Say You’ll Remember Me.
D I S L I K E S
✗ WTF ARE THESE CLOTHES DESCRIPTIONS
Honestly, what the fuck, Katie? I think I read ‘wallet chain’ like twelve times. I’m not sure how America works or what the latest styles are over there but being relatively poor over here in Australia I was very disturbed by a ‘wallet chain’. I think the only people I’ve ever actually seen with a wallet chain have been drug dealers. Maybe not even then. Honestly. The clothing descriptions felt very out-dated and irrelevant when they were brought up. I just am not here for the 80’s gangster style making a come back. No thank you.
✗ NO CLEAR ANSWERS
There aren’t exactly any clear answers at the end of Say You’ll Remember Me. By this I mean it is fucking open-ended. I hope this means Katie is at least thinking about extending this into a series that features each of Drix’s family members. I would love that. But, my point is we never find out anything by the end of Say You’ll Remember Me. Relationships have been ruined and we are left unsure if they will ever be repaired. I just really hate finishing a contemporary and not having all the answer. I just want a nice epilogue that explains every loose end in the story.
✗ DISAPPEARING FRIEND ACT
This point gets mentioned in quite a few of my reviews. Katie McGarry really highlighted this point with Elle. Drix has his friends that make up his family and two of his half-siblings. What we don’t get are Elle’s friends. They’re mentioned briefly, that Elle text them when one of the many scandals surrounding her were released. Other then that? Nothing. They don’t seem too concerned and Elle doesn’t think about them at all. I just wish we would get more girls with friends before a boy being included in the equation. I understand Elle bonds with Drix’s sister, but it’s not enough.
Overall, I really loved Say You’ll Remember me. It was a passionate, fast and beautiful read. I can’t help but recommend it if you’re looking for a fluffy read with a tad more depth, possibly even a slight mystery. It has it’s triggers though (as mentioned at the beginning of this review), so make sure to check them out if you choose to read this!
Also, if you're looking to buy any books over at Book Depository, feel free to use my affiliate link! I gain a small 5% commission at no extra cost to you. It would really help me out!
May 30, 2018
Like always, Katie’s characters are ones I’m rooting for. This wasn’t as emotional for me (until the end... GIRL) because they were new characters and I didn’t get as much building as I like. But I still loved it and enjoyed reading. Katie always managing to be more than “just a romance” in her YA contemporary novels. She is intentional on shedding light on real issues teens and families go through and I always respect that about her writing. I definitely recommend all of her works!!
March 11, 2018
I wasn't expecting much but oh my god I loved this one!
September 13, 2018
Didn't love it. Didn't hate it. Indifferent. Boring.
January 30, 2018
5 DRIX Stars!!!
Katie McGarry has my number. I don’t even like books with musicians….like I steer clear of them because I can’t think of one that I loved. I had no idea that one of characters was going to be a musician, but of course if there was a musician I would love, it would be one that Katie wrote.
Feel the beat in my blood, the rhythm in my heart, the music filling an empty soul.
Drix just got out of his special juvenile detention program. I love that mystery that we don’t really know what happened for part of the book. He was included in a special trial program that the governor is pushing for to help juveniles from getting caught in the system. It just so happens that the governor’s daughter is Elle. A relationship that is forbidden. He thinks she is out of his league, and I just love a bad boy who thinks he is too bad for the girl. Mmmmm. Yum.
I'm just a girl on a midway, he's just a boy on a midway, and not everything has to end like a daydream.
What is so different about this story is that we don’t experience Drix before he went to juvie. I think I would have loved to read that part of his life. But it was so unique how we just saw the new Drix because this is the Drix that is now.
Drix is struggling to stay on the straight and narrow. While Elle wants to burst out from the cage of her life and do something dangerous and risky. These two are going in completely opposite directions, and yet they seem to find each other in the middle. Drix and Elle are just perfect for each other. Each scene with these two I was grinning and giggling. They were so cute and hot.
What I love about Katie McGarry books is that she always seems to find that perfect grey area between good and bad. He’s not bad. He’s not entirely good either. He’s not really sure what he is. These are people trying to find the balance between who everyone expects them to be, who they are now, and who they want to be in the future. And I think this is something that not only teenagers struggle with but adults as well.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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Katie McGarry has my number. I don’t even like books with musicians….like I steer clear of them because I can’t think of one that I loved. I had no idea that one of characters was going to be a musician, but of course if there was a musician I would love, it would be one that Katie wrote.
Feel the beat in my blood, the rhythm in my heart, the music filling an empty soul.
Drix just got out of his special juvenile detention program. I love that mystery that we don’t really know what happened for part of the book. He was included in a special trial program that the governor is pushing for to help juveniles from getting caught in the system. It just so happens that the governor’s daughter is Elle. A relationship that is forbidden. He thinks she is out of his league, and I just love a bad boy who thinks he is too bad for the girl. Mmmmm. Yum.
I'm just a girl on a midway, he's just a boy on a midway, and not everything has to end like a daydream.
What is so different about this story is that we don’t experience Drix before he went to juvie. I think I would have loved to read that part of his life. But it was so unique how we just saw the new Drix because this is the Drix that is now.
Drix is struggling to stay on the straight and narrow. While Elle wants to burst out from the cage of her life and do something dangerous and risky. These two are going in completely opposite directions, and yet they seem to find each other in the middle. Drix and Elle are just perfect for each other. Each scene with these two I was grinning and giggling. They were so cute and hot.
What I love about Katie McGarry books is that she always seems to find that perfect grey area between good and bad. He’s not bad. He’s not entirely good either. He’s not really sure what he is. These are people trying to find the balance between who everyone expects them to be, who they are now, and who they want to be in the future. And I think this is something that not only teenagers struggle with but adults as well.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on
February 6, 2018
I loved the story, of course (I love all her books!) but I especially loved Drix. What an amazing character. (His brother Axle too!) Elle was in such a completely different setting with completely different issues, but the author made her problems just as real, although not quite as tragic. Drix and Elle perfectly complemented each other. It's very emotional, and there are plenty of tears to be shed. The story is timely in many ways. I recommend it!
February 8, 2018
“A year ago, I would have said as many pretty words as it took to convince you to do what I wanted, but I don’t have much prettiness inside me anymore. I’m raw, and I’m telling you the truth. I want you to stay.”
Definitely enjoyed this one. Drix and Elle were perfect for each other. Steady drama, but not overwhelming or contrived.
Definitely enjoyed this one. Drix and Elle were perfect for each other. Steady drama, but not overwhelming or contrived.
January 22, 2018
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Say You’ll Remember Me is just what I’ve come to expect to Katie McGarry. It’s the type of contemporary that makes me laugh and makes me cry and leaves me truly thinking about all the complexities of the themes. These are my favorite types of contemporaries!
What Fed My Addiction:
Elle’s Complex family dynamics.
Elle’s family life is complicated, to say the least. But I love that McGarry doesn’t give us straight-up villainous, controlling parents. At so many points through the book, they show that they truly care about Elle and think that they’re looking out for her best interests. They pressure her into a lot of things, but they really do try to give her a choice, at least from their perspective—they sit down with her and talk to her about her role on the campaign and ask if she’s okay with it. It’s not that they don’t give her a choice, it’s that they’ve made her feel like she won’t be good enough for them if she says no. As a mom, I know how hard it can be to let your kids live their lives, bad choices and all. How you want to keep them from failing that class or in that social situation, etc. I really thought that McGarry got all those complexities across and showed a family that loves each other but that’s still messed up. (And they are messed up—especially toward the end of the book.) Elle’s parents have many faults, but not loving their daughter isn’t one of them. They just often go about showing it in really wrong ways.
Drix’s inability to control his own life.
A huge theme of this book is how hard it can be when you truly have no control—this plays out in both Elle’s and Drix’s lives, but it’s especially poignant for Drix. He has spent the past year making up for a crime he didn’t commit. His life is now beholden to a political candidate and he feels like he has to go along with everything that’s given to him because he owes Elle’s dad his life. Even though he didn’t commit the crime, the program really did turn his life around, and he’s truly grateful for that. In some ways, he feels he’s better off, even with people’s negative impressions of him. Because of that, he’s constantly being pulled in different directions—how much does he truly owe Elle’s dad? Is there anything he can say no to? Will he ever get past his bad reputation for a crime he didn’t even commit? Again, the issues are super complex, and McGarry delves into them all unflinchingly. I love that!
The political side of the story.
Elle’s dad might be the most interesting character in the book. Elle loves him deeply and she believes in him. She knows his heart and his desire to truly help people through his political position. And then politics itself gets in the way. In a lot of ways, this story is an exploration of how even good people struggle to stay that way once they’re in a position of power. I thought that this was done thoughtfully, realistically, and in a way that helped you see all sides.
The romance.
Okay, this book is a romance, so I should probably mention it, right? Honestly, the romance is the main focus of the book, and I absolutely adored it—but it’s just not as interesting to think about or talk about as the other elements of the story. To me, that’s a good thing. I got a romance that made me swoon with a story that kept my brain engaged! Drix and Elle were both fabulous characters individually, as well, so that made the romance that much better.
What Left Me Hungry for More:
Not much.
I mean, sure, there were things. A few elements of the story felt a little over the top or unrealistic (for instance, the perfect Second Chance program that absolutely transformed each and every life it touched—or the fact that all of Drix’s friends were somehow musical geniuses), but those elements were really small in comparison to the things I loved.
This is a story about how difficult it can sometimes be to gain control over your own life. I think this is a theme that will resonate with a LOT of YA readers. Once again, McGarry delivers. I give this book 4.5/5 Stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley and Inkslinger PR in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
Say You’ll Remember Me is just what I’ve come to expect to Katie McGarry. It’s the type of contemporary that makes me laugh and makes me cry and leaves me truly thinking about all the complexities of the themes. These are my favorite types of contemporaries!
What Fed My Addiction:
Elle’s Complex family dynamics.
Elle’s family life is complicated, to say the least. But I love that McGarry doesn’t give us straight-up villainous, controlling parents. At so many points through the book, they show that they truly care about Elle and think that they’re looking out for her best interests. They pressure her into a lot of things, but they really do try to give her a choice, at least from their perspective—they sit down with her and talk to her about her role on the campaign and ask if she’s okay with it. It’s not that they don’t give her a choice, it’s that they’ve made her feel like she won’t be good enough for them if she says no. As a mom, I know how hard it can be to let your kids live their lives, bad choices and all. How you want to keep them from failing that class or in that social situation, etc. I really thought that McGarry got all those complexities across and showed a family that loves each other but that’s still messed up. (And they are messed up—especially toward the end of the book.) Elle’s parents have many faults, but not loving their daughter isn’t one of them. They just often go about showing it in really wrong ways.
Drix’s inability to control his own life.
A huge theme of this book is how hard it can be when you truly have no control—this plays out in both Elle’s and Drix’s lives, but it’s especially poignant for Drix. He has spent the past year making up for a crime he didn’t commit. His life is now beholden to a political candidate and he feels like he has to go along with everything that’s given to him because he owes Elle’s dad his life. Even though he didn’t commit the crime, the program really did turn his life around, and he’s truly grateful for that. In some ways, he feels he’s better off, even with people’s negative impressions of him. Because of that, he’s constantly being pulled in different directions—how much does he truly owe Elle’s dad? Is there anything he can say no to? Will he ever get past his bad reputation for a crime he didn’t even commit? Again, the issues are super complex, and McGarry delves into them all unflinchingly. I love that!
The political side of the story.
Elle’s dad might be the most interesting character in the book. Elle loves him deeply and she believes in him. She knows his heart and his desire to truly help people through his political position. And then politics itself gets in the way. In a lot of ways, this story is an exploration of how even good people struggle to stay that way once they’re in a position of power. I thought that this was done thoughtfully, realistically, and in a way that helped you see all sides.
The romance.
Okay, this book is a romance, so I should probably mention it, right? Honestly, the romance is the main focus of the book, and I absolutely adored it—but it’s just not as interesting to think about or talk about as the other elements of the story. To me, that’s a good thing. I got a romance that made me swoon with a story that kept my brain engaged! Drix and Elle were both fabulous characters individually, as well, so that made the romance that much better.
What Left Me Hungry for More:
Not much.
I mean, sure, there were things. A few elements of the story felt a little over the top or unrealistic (for instance, the perfect Second Chance program that absolutely transformed each and every life it touched—or the fact that all of Drix’s friends were somehow musical geniuses), but those elements were really small in comparison to the things I loved.
This is a story about how difficult it can sometimes be to gain control over your own life. I think this is a theme that will resonate with a LOT of YA readers. Once again, McGarry delivers. I give this book 4.5/5 Stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley and Inkslinger PR in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
February 28, 2018
I received a finished copy of this novel from the publisher Harlequin in exchange for an honest review – all thoughts are my own.
Trigger Warnings; This novel contains drug & alcohol abuse, abuse –both physical and mental and the death of an animal.
It’s books like this one that make a huge fantasy lover like me fall in love with the contemporary genre. Say You’ll Remember Me isn’t your normal teen YA love story – it tackles real issues that everyday people face. The divide between the ‘upper class’ and ‘lower class’, teen vulnerability, romance, betrayal are just some of the themes throughout this book.
Say You’ll Remember Me tackles some heavy topics throughout the novel, abuse being the main one. It shows the different types of abuse someone can face, not just physical domestic abuse, but also the mental abuse from a partner and parents as well. Say You’ll Remember Me is an emotionally impacting novel that leaves the reader feeling a lot of hate towards some characters and the need to cuddle others.
We follow our two main protagonists Elle and Hendrix (Drix) throughout this novel with their own POV alternating chapters. Elle and Drix are both very bright in their own way, they have found themselves in a situation that neither of them want to be in – Elle pushed by her parents and their advisors into being the perfect Politicians daughter – groomed to perfection – but on the inside she is dying to just be herself. And Drix, the “bad boy” from the wrong side of the tracks – convicted of a crime he never committed but determined to make something from his life now that Elle’s father, the Governor has given him a second chance through the aptly named 'Second Chance Program'.
(I have a whole new appreciation and love for the name Hendrix now – just saying – SWOONING OVER HERE).
Elle and Drix are instantly drawn to each other but it isn’t “insta love”. Their relationship grows throughout the book but it doesn’t make you wait around till the end for them to do something about it haha. It is realistic and they both really care about the relationship blossoming between themselves.
Not once throughout the book did I find myself losing interest, I was thoroughly engrossed from start to finish. The chemistry between the two main protagonists is so entrancing. The plot moves efficiently and the events that occur are realistic - it's real life. This book isn't some fantasy where two teens from opposite backgrounds fall in love and everything is magically perfect. They work hard at their relationship when the divide between their worlds threatens to pull them apart. Drix's family faces what many familys face these days - money problems, a broken home, abusive relationships. Elle's family are far from perfect as well, the parents put themselves above Elle, they think of themselves first and don't care who they hurt to get where they want.
I had so many emotions reading this novel, I just wanted to help the characters, not just Elle and Drix but Drixs’ family – both blood related and not blood related. I felt so much anger towards Elle’s parents, their advisors and “friends” – Elle was paraded around like a doll at times and it was devastating to see.
I was left bawling my eyes out at the event that occurs in the ending of this book – I am still NOT OK with what happens. As I am keeping this spoiler free I won’t say – but I am sure everyone else who reads this book will know EXACTLY what event I am talking about.
Overall, I just loved this book and the characters are so special. I also need to mention that the UK/AUS cover is AMAZING.
I have honestly found a new favourite author in Katie McGarry, her writing style is so beautiful and I cannot wait to read more of her books.
Trigger Warnings; This novel contains drug & alcohol abuse, abuse –both physical and mental and the death of an animal.
It’s books like this one that make a huge fantasy lover like me fall in love with the contemporary genre. Say You’ll Remember Me isn’t your normal teen YA love story – it tackles real issues that everyday people face. The divide between the ‘upper class’ and ‘lower class’, teen vulnerability, romance, betrayal are just some of the themes throughout this book.
Say You’ll Remember Me tackles some heavy topics throughout the novel, abuse being the main one. It shows the different types of abuse someone can face, not just physical domestic abuse, but also the mental abuse from a partner and parents as well. Say You’ll Remember Me is an emotionally impacting novel that leaves the reader feeling a lot of hate towards some characters and the need to cuddle others.
We follow our two main protagonists Elle and Hendrix (Drix) throughout this novel with their own POV alternating chapters. Elle and Drix are both very bright in their own way, they have found themselves in a situation that neither of them want to be in – Elle pushed by her parents and their advisors into being the perfect Politicians daughter – groomed to perfection – but on the inside she is dying to just be herself. And Drix, the “bad boy” from the wrong side of the tracks – convicted of a crime he never committed but determined to make something from his life now that Elle’s father, the Governor has given him a second chance through the aptly named 'Second Chance Program'.
(I have a whole new appreciation and love for the name Hendrix now – just saying – SWOONING OVER HERE).
Elle and Drix are instantly drawn to each other but it isn’t “insta love”. Their relationship grows throughout the book but it doesn’t make you wait around till the end for them to do something about it haha. It is realistic and they both really care about the relationship blossoming between themselves.
Not once throughout the book did I find myself losing interest, I was thoroughly engrossed from start to finish. The chemistry between the two main protagonists is so entrancing. The plot moves efficiently and the events that occur are realistic - it's real life. This book isn't some fantasy where two teens from opposite backgrounds fall in love and everything is magically perfect. They work hard at their relationship when the divide between their worlds threatens to pull them apart. Drix's family faces what many familys face these days - money problems, a broken home, abusive relationships. Elle's family are far from perfect as well, the parents put themselves above Elle, they think of themselves first and don't care who they hurt to get where they want.
I had so many emotions reading this novel, I just wanted to help the characters, not just Elle and Drix but Drixs’ family – both blood related and not blood related. I felt so much anger towards Elle’s parents, their advisors and “friends” – Elle was paraded around like a doll at times and it was devastating to see.
I was left bawling my eyes out at the event that occurs in the ending of this book – I am still NOT OK with what happens. As I am keeping this spoiler free I won’t say – but I am sure everyone else who reads this book will know EXACTLY what event I am talking about.
Overall, I just loved this book and the characters are so special. I also need to mention that the UK/AUS cover is AMAZING.
I have honestly found a new favourite author in Katie McGarry, her writing style is so beautiful and I cannot wait to read more of her books.
January 12, 2018
Trigger warning:
There’s just something about Katie McGarry’s books that continue to attract me to them. I don’t think I’ve read one book from her that I have disliked. With Say You’ll Remember Me by good-luck streak with her book continues. Once again, she has written an addicting story with a wonderful cast of characters.
Like with most other Katie McGarry books, Say You’ll Remember Me is told in the dual POVs of two characters who come from different worlds. Hendrix and Ellison could not be more different from each other, but they are both lovely characters who are easy to sympathize with. Out of the two, I do have to admit that I had a soft spot for Drix. His situation is very heartbreaking – he’s been to juvie for a crime he did not commit, and is forced to be the face of the governor’s new Second Chance Program aimed at helping juvenile delinquents. At the beginning of the book, Drix is reserved and quiet, understably so because of his entire situation, but there’s a strength and bravery to him that shined through from the very start. He’s a boy who is loyal to his very broken, but loving family, and would do anything to protect them. Even though he is thrust into the media spotlight, he takes on the Second Chance Program because he knows that it will be good for him. Despite everything, he’s just a normal boy with a lot of passion, and his own dreams, which we slowly discover throughout the book.
Ellison, her, is the governor’s daughter. She’s lived a more or less luxurious life, but it’s been a stifling and controlling one. Because of her dad’s position, her entire life has been planned out and controlled by her parents. She’s just waiting to break free with her own dreams of becoming a coder/programmer, but she does whatever her folks tell her to out of love and respect for them. When Elle and Drix might, there are sparks everywhere, but because of their differing backgrounds and the constant limelight shining on them, their relationship is a little bit forbidden. They somehow still find themselves falling into each others’ paths, and slowly, a romance develops. I adored everything about these two as a couple. They made each other stronger, they were supportive of each other, and they were both incredibly sweet together. This is a romance that had my heart very happy. I also loved that Say You’ll Remember Me was more than a romance. It also had great family and friendship dynamics. I enjoyed the roles that Drix’s siblings and his friends played in the book despite how messy some of them were. You could tell though underneath everything, these were people that cared deeply about each other. I also adored Elle’s cousin and almost wish we got to see more of him. The only thing I vehemently disliked about Say You’ll Remember Me was
Katie McGarry is good at writing opposites attract romances, and she’s good at writing books that truly make you feel all the feels. I can’t recommend Say You’ll Remember Me enough.
There’s just something about Katie McGarry’s books that continue to attract me to them. I don’t think I’ve read one book from her that I have disliked. With Say You’ll Remember Me by good-luck streak with her book continues. Once again, she has written an addicting story with a wonderful cast of characters.
Like with most other Katie McGarry books, Say You’ll Remember Me is told in the dual POVs of two characters who come from different worlds. Hendrix and Ellison could not be more different from each other, but they are both lovely characters who are easy to sympathize with. Out of the two, I do have to admit that I had a soft spot for Drix. His situation is very heartbreaking – he’s been to juvie for a crime he did not commit, and is forced to be the face of the governor’s new Second Chance Program aimed at helping juvenile delinquents. At the beginning of the book, Drix is reserved and quiet, understably so because of his entire situation, but there’s a strength and bravery to him that shined through from the very start. He’s a boy who is loyal to his very broken, but loving family, and would do anything to protect them. Even though he is thrust into the media spotlight, he takes on the Second Chance Program because he knows that it will be good for him. Despite everything, he’s just a normal boy with a lot of passion, and his own dreams, which we slowly discover throughout the book.
Ellison, her, is the governor’s daughter. She’s lived a more or less luxurious life, but it’s been a stifling and controlling one. Because of her dad’s position, her entire life has been planned out and controlled by her parents. She’s just waiting to break free with her own dreams of becoming a coder/programmer, but she does whatever her folks tell her to out of love and respect for them. When Elle and Drix might, there are sparks everywhere, but because of their differing backgrounds and the constant limelight shining on them, their relationship is a little bit forbidden. They somehow still find themselves falling into each others’ paths, and slowly, a romance develops. I adored everything about these two as a couple. They made each other stronger, they were supportive of each other, and they were both incredibly sweet together. This is a romance that had my heart very happy. I also loved that Say You’ll Remember Me was more than a romance. It also had great family and friendship dynamics. I enjoyed the roles that Drix’s siblings and his friends played in the book despite how messy some of them were. You could tell though underneath everything, these were people that cared deeply about each other. I also adored Elle’s cousin and almost wish we got to see more of him. The only thing I vehemently disliked about Say You’ll Remember Me was
Katie McGarry is good at writing opposites attract romances, and she’s good at writing books that truly make you feel all the feels. I can’t recommend Say You’ll Remember Me enough.
January 25, 2018
4.5 STARS
As the governor’s daughter, Elle lives with constant pressure. The pressure of public scrutiny and the pressure from her parents to always be the best. Their expectations only increase when she agrees to help her father campaign for senator. With every new demand and the push to do better and be better, Elle is buckling under strain.
Drix was convicted of a crime he didn’t commit and is returning home after almost a year away. He’s no longer the guy who got drunk, got high, and used his fists when angry. The problem is, he doesn’t know who he is now or where to go from here. Now the face of the governor’s Second Chance Program, Drix is forced into a role he never wanted.
Drix and Elle may have come from different worlds but on the inside they are both struggling to find their own way. Elle is chafing at her parent’s control and the knowledge that their love seems to come with strings attached. Drix confessed to a crime he didn’t commit to protect his family, but he’s come home to a new set of problems and an uncertain future. As they spend time together on the campaign trail they both find what they need most: total acceptance. But in the eyes of the world around them, Elle is the pretty and poised media darling and Drix is the guy with a criminal record from the wrong side of the tracks. Neither wants to walk away from the one person with whom they can be their best selves.
It’s no secret that when it comes to contemporary YA, Katie McGarry is at the top of my list. She consistently delivers characters that I come to know and love and stories that have an emotional impact. My heart ached for Elle and it broke for Drix. Elle perfected smiling on the outside while screaming on the inside for the chance to simply be herself. She’s also looking at her parents with new eyes and questioning if they are the people she has always thought them to be. McGarry gave an achingly realistic portrayal of Elle’s perception of her father go from hero worship to the understanding that he was all too human and flawed. In Drix, McGarry created a sensitive, mature young man who was loving and loyal despite a childhood deprived of caring parents or a sense of stability. My heart broke again and again for Drix as he struggled to find his place at home and a new sense of self. While riddled with guilt and pain over his past, he showed who he had become with every selfless decision and every act of redemption.
I could rhapsodize about my feelings for these two special characters and how well they supported and comforted and championed one another. And I could go on and on about my love for the richly drawn cast of secondary characters, particularly Drix’s family and friends, that added insight and drama and humor. Instead, I’ll simply tell you that Katie McGarry has once again created an unputdownable story with real heart. Say You’ll Remember Me is not to be missed.
As the governor’s daughter, Elle lives with constant pressure. The pressure of public scrutiny and the pressure from her parents to always be the best. Their expectations only increase when she agrees to help her father campaign for senator. With every new demand and the push to do better and be better, Elle is buckling under strain.
“I have three minutes until I have to pretend in public that the last few minutes didn’t come close to breaking me.” - Elle
Drix was convicted of a crime he didn’t commit and is returning home after almost a year away. He’s no longer the guy who got drunk, got high, and used his fists when angry. The problem is, he doesn’t know who he is now or where to go from here. Now the face of the governor’s Second Chance Program, Drix is forced into a role he never wanted.
“What type of man am I going to be?
That’s the question.
That’s always the question.” - Drix
Drix and Elle may have come from different worlds but on the inside they are both struggling to find their own way. Elle is chafing at her parent’s control and the knowledge that their love seems to come with strings attached. Drix confessed to a crime he didn’t commit to protect his family, but he’s come home to a new set of problems and an uncertain future. As they spend time together on the campaign trail they both find what they need most: total acceptance. But in the eyes of the world around them, Elle is the pretty and poised media darling and Drix is the guy with a criminal record from the wrong side of the tracks. Neither wants to walk away from the one person with whom they can be their best selves.
It’s no secret that when it comes to contemporary YA, Katie McGarry is at the top of my list. She consistently delivers characters that I come to know and love and stories that have an emotional impact. My heart ached for Elle and it broke for Drix. Elle perfected smiling on the outside while screaming on the inside for the chance to simply be herself. She’s also looking at her parents with new eyes and questioning if they are the people she has always thought them to be. McGarry gave an achingly realistic portrayal of Elle’s perception of her father go from hero worship to the understanding that he was all too human and flawed. In Drix, McGarry created a sensitive, mature young man who was loving and loyal despite a childhood deprived of caring parents or a sense of stability. My heart broke again and again for Drix as he struggled to find his place at home and a new sense of self. While riddled with guilt and pain over his past, he showed who he had become with every selfless decision and every act of redemption.
“It’s an awful place to be, the person responsible for someone else’s happiness, because being human, we’re going to fail. And by being human, we’ll take the lashing when we never meet expectations.” - Drix
I could rhapsodize about my feelings for these two special characters and how well they supported and comforted and championed one another. And I could go on and on about my love for the richly drawn cast of secondary characters, particularly Drix’s family and friends, that added insight and drama and humor. Instead, I’ll simply tell you that Katie McGarry has once again created an unputdownable story with real heart. Say You’ll Remember Me is not to be missed.
January 26, 2018
As soon as Katie McGarry's Say You'll Remember Me appeared on my iPad, I threw my other books to the side, put my phone on silent, and dove right in. Over the course of one day I devoured the entire book from start to finish. I honestly don't think I put my iPad down once, that's how dedicated I was to the story.
Say You'll Remember Me is enthralling, emotionally driven, and romantic, and I completely loved every single second of it!
Drix and Elle are without a doubt my favorite part of Say You'll Remember Me. Both are incredibly realistic, lovable, and relatable.
Drix is tough on the surface but a sweetheart deep down. His relationship with his family warmed my heart, and while I couldn't believe he took the fall for something he didn't even do, I gave him major props for doing so. It takes a certain kind of person to put themselves in that position to save a friend/family member. Throughout the book he faces numerous challenges - moving on from his past, not falling back into his old vices, learning how to trust, etc. He has his ups and downs regarding each; however, no matter how tough the times got I didn't once stop rooting for him. I just wanted the best for Drix. I wanted him to be happy and to let love into his life.
I'll admit that I was slightly worried about Elle at first. I was scared she would be the typical spoiled rich girl, but as it turns out, my worrying was for nothing. Elle is secret rebel, in my opinion. Over the course of the book, she does a lot of the "wrong" things, and by wrong I mean 100% right. I loved how she would do anything to save a stray animal (the scene with the dog in the hotel was one of my favorites!); however, what I loved the most was how willing she was to take a chance on someone. Over the course of the book, she's constantly told to stay away from Drix, that he isn't the type of boy she should be with; however, Elle won't listen. She won't let her life be controlled in that way. I admired her fearlessness in that regard, especially since I think Drix inspired her to be a better person and vice versa. Her relationship with her parents was incredibly complicated, and to be completely honest, sometimes I truly despised them. Some of their actions blew my mind. While part of me wanted nothing more than for Elle to leave them in the dust, I could understand her reluctance to do so, and I thought Katie did a wonderful job of weaving that into the novel.
Just like Katie's past books the romance in Say You'll Remember Me is hot, hot, hot. So much steam. So much banter. So much chemistry. I was on romance book cloud nine. I won't go too much into Drix and Elle's relationship, but I will say Katie did such a fantastic job of developing it. It felt natural and real. I enjoyed the friends-to-lovers angle.
In all, Say You'll Remember Me is yet another unforgettable contemporary from Katie. It had such a movie/do-or-die feel, and I just know fans of angsty YA are going to ADORE it.
Last but not least: it may only be January, but this book has already earned a spot on my Best of 2018 list.
Say You'll Remember Me is enthralling, emotionally driven, and romantic, and I completely loved every single second of it!
Drix and Elle are without a doubt my favorite part of Say You'll Remember Me. Both are incredibly realistic, lovable, and relatable.
Drix is tough on the surface but a sweetheart deep down. His relationship with his family warmed my heart, and while I couldn't believe he took the fall for something he didn't even do, I gave him major props for doing so. It takes a certain kind of person to put themselves in that position to save a friend/family member. Throughout the book he faces numerous challenges - moving on from his past, not falling back into his old vices, learning how to trust, etc. He has his ups and downs regarding each; however, no matter how tough the times got I didn't once stop rooting for him. I just wanted the best for Drix. I wanted him to be happy and to let love into his life.
I'll admit that I was slightly worried about Elle at first. I was scared she would be the typical spoiled rich girl, but as it turns out, my worrying was for nothing. Elle is secret rebel, in my opinion. Over the course of the book, she does a lot of the "wrong" things, and by wrong I mean 100% right. I loved how she would do anything to save a stray animal (the scene with the dog in the hotel was one of my favorites!); however, what I loved the most was how willing she was to take a chance on someone. Over the course of the book, she's constantly told to stay away from Drix, that he isn't the type of boy she should be with; however, Elle won't listen. She won't let her life be controlled in that way. I admired her fearlessness in that regard, especially since I think Drix inspired her to be a better person and vice versa. Her relationship with her parents was incredibly complicated, and to be completely honest, sometimes I truly despised them. Some of their actions blew my mind. While part of me wanted nothing more than for Elle to leave them in the dust, I could understand her reluctance to do so, and I thought Katie did a wonderful job of weaving that into the novel.
Just like Katie's past books the romance in Say You'll Remember Me is hot, hot, hot. So much steam. So much banter. So much chemistry. I was on romance book cloud nine. I won't go too much into Drix and Elle's relationship, but I will say Katie did such a fantastic job of developing it. It felt natural and real. I enjoyed the friends-to-lovers angle.
In all, Say You'll Remember Me is yet another unforgettable contemporary from Katie. It had such a movie/do-or-die feel, and I just know fans of angsty YA are going to ADORE it.
Last but not least: it may only be January, but this book has already earned a spot on my Best of 2018 list.
February 4, 2018
O livro conta a história de 2 adolescentes, suas famílias e dramas. Descomplicado. Gostei.
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