Book Review: Bittersweet by Sarah Ockler

Title: Bittersweet

Author: Sarah Ockler

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Publication Date: January 3, 2012

Rating: ☆☆☆☆

Synopsis:
Once upon a time, Hudson knew exactly what her future looked like. Then a betrayal changed her life, and knocked her dreams to the ground. Now she’s a girl who doesn’t believe in second chances... a girl who stays under the radar by baking cupcakes at her mom’s diner and obsessing over what might have been.

So when things start looking up and she has another shot at her dreams, Hudson is equal parts hopeful and terrified. Of course, this is also the moment a cute, sweet guy walks into her life... and starts serving up some seriously mixed signals. She’s got a lot on her plate, and for a girl who’s been burned before, risking it all is easier said than done.

It’s time for Hudson to ask herself what she really wants, and how much she’s willing to sacrifice to get it. Because in a place where opportunities are fleeting, she knows this chance may very well be her last... 

My Review:

I admit that I am a huge Sarah Ockler fan and I'll ready anything she writes, but I was really drawn to this book because of the blue backdrop on the cover. I kept trying to figure out what the book would be about when I looked at it. It's just such a pretty and intriguing cover, right?

Then I started reading. On the very first page, a hockey team is mentioned. From that point forward, I was hooked. Hockey is my favorite sport, so I'll read anything YA that includes hockey players. They don't get enough representation in literature. The book is also about a teen figure skater. This is just yet another reason on why I adored this book. I thought that the blending of the figure skating world and hockey world was cute. It was also really well done, so kudos to Ms. Ockler for that!

When you're reading it, you'll become caught up in emotions. Being able to become emotionally attached to characters is such a huge part of my enjoyment of a book. I was able to feel what Hudson was going through when I was reading it.

I also loved all of the characters in this book from the main characters like Hudson, Dani, and Josh. Yes... Hudson has her moments, but that's what makes her believable. The supporting characters were great as well. I will warn you that there is a love triangle in this book, but please don't deter you from reading it. Ockler did a great job with it, and it's completely believable.

Now... the cutest part of all... Each chapter is named after a cupcake! I won't tell you why if you haven't read the book, but trust me. It makes complete sense. How stinking adorable is that? I want to make them all, but that might be a disaster.