Review: Running Wide Open

Jul •  14 •  2012

Title: Running Wide Open
Series: Full Throttle # 1
Genre: Young Adult- Contemporary
Author: Lisa Nowak
Publisher: Webfoot Publishing
Release Date: June 13, 2011
Book: E-copy won from author 



“Cody Everett has a temper as hot as the flashpoint of racing fuel, and it’s landed him at his uncle’s trailer, a last-chance home before military school. But how can he take the guy seriously when he calls himself Race, eats Twinkies for breakfast, and pals around with rednecks who drive in circles every Saturday night?What Cody doesn’t expect is for the arrangement to work. Or for Race to become the friend and mentor he’s been looking for all his life. But just as Cody begins to settle in and get a handle on his supercharged temper, a crisis sends his life spinning out of control. Everything he’s come to care about is threatened, and he has to choose between falling back on his old, familiar anger or stepping up to prove his loyalty to the only person he’s ever dared to trust.”

 This story took my by surprised and I love it! I love going into a book exactly knowing what is going to happen and it’s not.
What I enjoyed most about this book is the great plot line. Filled with hurt and lies, Cody is being passed around like trash. He is acting out and on his last resort. The thing is Cody is not a bad kid. He has just being treated badly. Instantly, I was invested in Cody and my heart was with him every step of the way. When ever he made a mistake, I am there rooting for him to get back up and keep going. When someone is there to bring him down, I shove my boot up their butts! LOL
The best part of this story is that there is no love interest. Well sort of.  This is more of a family love. Learning to love and trust when all you been taught is the wrong stuff. To see Cody struggle with acceptance but also at the same time learn to love and care brought tears to my eyes. I’m so happy that Cody got a chance to shine just a he is meant to be.
And that is why I love this book. The redemption of the characters along with the hell he went through makes this story soo worth reading. When  a big life mess can be turned around by simple acts of love it touches my heart.
Running Wide Open is an gripping story that is solid till the end. The success in writing such flawed characters with amazing ability to be redeemed, this story deserves much praise. A genuine exploration of a love makes the readers heart glow. Running Wide Open is awesome!
I give it 5 BITES!
Happy Reading!

4 Comments

  1. Chayse Sundt
    Jul 14, 2012

    I am really glad you enjoyed this book. I am looking forward to reading the second installment of this series.

    -Chayse

  2. Emily Yu
    Jul 14, 2012

    Hey!
    I just found you on Feature and Follow.
    I’m a new follower here. Follow me back via GFC? ^^
    http://anythinginfantasy.blogspot.sg/2012/07/feature-and-follow-friday-1.html
    Thanks in advance!
    All the best~

  3. Lisa
    Jul 14, 2012

    Thank you for the thoughtful review. I’d just like to let your readers know that Running Wide Open is now free on Amazon and other distributors.

  4. I have to admit, the redneck angle would have put me off, but I’m curious now. I love a story of redemption. I’ll have to check it out especially since it’s free! 🙂