WhiskeyintheJar Romance

First off I read this book in like 4 hours, so you could say I was into it. The story is told completely from John's point of view. Normally I don't like books where I only get to read one side of the story; I like to get into characters heads and know/experience their emotions. As you can see by the A grade I gave this book it didn't bother me. The writing style of Nicholas Sparks is so good it wasn't a problem and the character John talks about other characters in a way that as the reader you can visualize what they are thinking or feeling.

Oh how I loved the character of John. He was so real to me. He wasn't an over the top hero that appears in usual romance books but realistically flawed. John is almost too hard for me to describe. He is so normal but so extraordinary at the same time.
The lead character of Savannah I wanted to slap. She doesn't cuss or drink and seems so goody/innocent. She would be very judgmental at times and then be like "Oh I shouldn't say that, but I just can't help it". She was incredibly naive so much so that it really annoyed me. When her upbringing is discussed I softened more towards her because honestly this chick was sheltered to the point of being detrimental. I had to remind myself she was very young 22 or so I think the 9 months she has to wait for John to come back the U.S. seems like eternity for her while I'm like it's only 9 months why can't you wait for him!?

John's relationship with his father was as big a part of the story as the romance with Savannah. Savannah helps John discover his dad has Aspergers. When John learns this he is able to create more of a relationship with his father. This storyline of John trying to connect with his dad who is somewhat emotionally stunted is heartwrenching. I cried so hard for them.

I don't want to give to much away with regards to the ending but I will say my anger towards Savannah lessened. Her age and naivety worked against her and by the time she got a taste of the real world and grew up a bit her life was on a path she couldn't get off of. I'm just upset John had to pay for her immaturity.

This book made it so clear that strength and maturity are needed for love and relationships to work. Definitely a "real" life story here and I hope any soldier who receives a "Dear John" letter finds someone who is strong enough for them.
Whenever I see the preview for the movie now I instantly feel weepy. I think I am going to want to see the movie and I hope they keep in all the story of John and his father. I don't think I want them to change the ending, ruining the essence of the book and all that jazz, but after The Lovely Bones I could stand for some happiness.

Why can't they make movies from non-depressing books? My vote is for the "Crazy Hot" movie. oh please, please! :)

A (but not a keeper because I will never read this story again, I am not a masochist)