Notes from the Blender by Brendan Halpin and Tricia Cook

Rating:

Characters: 17/20

Plot: 18/20

Originality: 17/20

Writing: 18/20

Recommendation: 18/20

Overall: 88/100 or B

Source: Publisher

Declan loves death metal--particularly from Finland. And video games--violent ones. And internet porn--any kind, really. He goes to school with Neilly Foster and spends most of his classroom time wondering what it might be like to know her, to talk to her, maybe even to graze against her sweater in the hallway. Neilly is an accomplished gymnast, naturally beautiful, and a constant presence at all the best parties (to which Declan is never invited). She's the queen of cool, the princess of poker face, and her rule is uncontested-- or it was until today, when she's dumped by her boyfriend, betrayed by her former BFF Lulu, and then informed she's getting a new brother--of the freaky fellow classmate variety. Declan's dad is marrying Neilly's mom. Soon. Which means they'll be moving in together.

This book was about how two people that are so different can become friends. Declan was such a shy and sweet person, under his different exterior. Neilly wasn't as she seemed either. She cared about her family a lot. I was glad that a romance between Neilly and Declan didn't develop. Their friendship was so amazing. The plot was full of humor. I found myself laughing so much. It was an original book that was focused on the merging of families, which is obviously happening more and more. Halpin and Cook were amazing writers that created separate character with their own motives and actions. I highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a funny and quick read.