book review punk 57

Unraveling ‘Punk 57′: An Intimate Glimpse into Penelope Douglas’ World of Romance and Resilience

Introduction: the intrigue of penelope douglas’ craft.

Have you ever stumbled upon a book that just resonates with the raw, unfiltered slices of life, presenting a mosaic of emotions? That’s exactly what Penelope Douglas’ “Punk 57” does.

It’s more than just a novel; it’s a journey through the ups and downs of teenage life, akin to a roller coaster ride that one can’t get enough of. In this deep dive, we will explore the intricacies of Douglas’ acclaimed novel, its characters, themes, and the indelible mark it leaves on the reader.

If you are a fan of Murakami’s Norwegian Wood, this novel will surely create some sparks for you too.

Meet Ryen and Misha: Characters Crafted to Perfection

Ryen: not just a pretty face.

Imagine a girl who’s the life of the party, the queen bee of her high school, but with layers as complex as a Russian doll. That’s Ryen for you. She’s not just the principal’s daughter; she’s a force to be reckoned with, with a spirit that’s as indomitable as it is vulnerable.

Misha: The Enigmatic Artist

Picture a boy with a brush in one hand and a secret in the other. Misha is the yin to Ryen’s yang, an artist whose quiet demeanor masks a tumultuous inner world. His story is one of struggle, a silent battle against the shadows of his past.

The Pen Pal Chronicles: Rekindling a Long-Lost Bond

A childhood connection.

Ryen and Misha’s story is a testament to the enduring power of friendship. Imagine finding your fifth-grade pen pal in the hallways of your high school. The nostalgia, the surprise, the flood of memories – it’s a premise that sets the stage for a tale of rekindled camaraderie and emerging complexities.

An Unexpected Protector

When life throws Misha a curveball in the form of a father figure from a forgotten past, it’s Ryen who steps up to the plate. It’s a dance of dynamics between protector and protected, a theme that weaves through the fabric of the story.

The Heart of ‘Punk 57’: Revealing the Hidden and Healing the Hurt

Secrets unfold.

In “Punk 57,” the skeletons in the closet don’t stay hidden for long. As Ryen and Misha’s world collides with their secrets, they find themselves in a maelstrom of emotions, each revelation bringing them closer and tearing down walls.

Adversity: The Common Adversary

Life is the antagonist in this tale of two souls. Ryen and Misha face their own demons, together yet alone, their journey a poignant narrative of resilience in the face of life’s trials.

The Path Less Travelled: Misha and Ryen’s Quest for Freedom

Breaking free.

In the end, it’s about breaking the chains of the past. It’s about the strength found in companionship, the courage gleaned from mutual wounds, and the determination to carve a niche in the world for oneself.

Behind the Scenes: The Rise of Penelope Douglas

From dreams to bestsellers.

Douglas didn’t just write a book; she wrote a manifesto for the broken-hearted, the dreamers, the fighters. Her journey from a twenty-something-year-old writer to a New York Times Bestselling author is nothing short of inspiring.

A Voice That Echoes

Penelope Douglas’ voice is a clarion call for the bold and the beautiful in literature, a pioneer in the world of romance, and a beacon for aspiring writers everywhere.

Through a journey of self-discovery and finding true companionship in each other, they forge ahead with courage and determination to create their own paths for the future.

A Personal Take: Reviewing ‘Punk 57’

The meeting of pen pals.

“Punk 57” brings together two unlikely worlds through the eyes of Ryen and Misha. It’s a story that oscillates between affection and affliction, with a rhythm that pulses with the beat of teenage angst and allure.

The Tumultuous Tide of Friendship and More

This book is not for the faint of heart. It’s a raw, unadulterated look at the complexities of relationships, set to the tune of life’s unpredictable symphony. It’s a flawed masterpiece that mirrors the imperfections of life itself.

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Review: ‘Punk 57’ by Penelope Douglas

"We were perfect together. Until we met." Misha I can’t help but smile at the words in her letter. She misses me. In fifth grade, my teacher set us up with pen pals from a different school. Thinking I was a girl, with a name like Misha, the other teacher paired me up with her student, Ryen. My teacher, believing Ryen was a boy like me, agreed. It didn’t take long for us to figure out the mistake. And in no time at all, we were arguing about everything. The best take-out pizza. Android vs. iPhone. Whether or not Eminem is the greatest rapper ever… And that was the start. For the next seven years, it was us. Her letters are always on black paper with silver writing. Sometimes there’s one a week or three in a day, but I need them. She’s the only one who keeps me on track, talks me down, and accepts everything I am. We only had three rules. No social media, no phone numbers, no pictures. We had a good thing going. Why ruin it? Until I run across a photo of a girl online. Name’s Ryen, loves Gallo’s pizza, and worships her iPhone. What are the chances? F*ck it. I need to meet her. I just don’t expect to hate what I find. Ryen He hasn’t written in three months. Something’s wrong. Did he die? Get arrested? Knowing Misha, neither would be a stretch. Without him around, I’m going crazy. I need to know someone is listening. It’s my own fault. I should've gotten his number or picture or something. He could be gone forever. Or right under my nose, and I wouldn’t even know it.

Why did it take me this long to read  Punk 57 ? I have no idea, but I’m kicking myself in the behind for waiting so long. I purchased  Punk 57  a while ago and was going through my kindle looking for a book to read and decided it was time to read it. I needed a YA/High School Bully Romance, and I knew Penelope Douglas’s would deliver. 

Storyline/My Thoughts: First, I loved this book has Ryen and Misha penpals. I haven’t read a book that had the characters as penpals first. Here it was Ryen and Misha became penpals due to their teachers thinking that Ryen was a boy and Misha was a girl. They learn the mistake quickly and hit it off, writing to each other for seven years back and forth. They’re rules: to not meet in person, call each other, or follow each other on social media. The minute they meet, one doesn’t realize it’s their pen pal, and the other doesn’t like how they are in real life.

It’s been three months now, and Misha hasn’t written Ryen. Ryen is worried something happened to him, and she will do anything to have him write her back. She needs him more than ever, but what if he’s near her and he’s not the boy she fell in love with within the letters he wrote her.

This book has everything I’m looking for in a YA/HS bully romance story. One of the characters is a jerk to the other, but it’s due to them protecting others who are being bullied. They want that person to know how ugly they are and don’t like this side of them. The other person is living a lie just to fit in high school. They don’t want to be lonely ever again. I felt for both characters in different ways.

At the beginning of the book, something happens, which is a tearjerker moment. I could understand why a particular character wanted to close off from everyone else, but they should have reached out to the one person who had been there for them.

I couldn’t stand some of Ryen’s so-called friends. They were backstabbers, and the minute she started showing her authentic self, they made fun of her and bullied her. Ryen handled it, though, in her own way.

One of my favorite scenes in this book was when Will Grayson, Michael Crist, and Kai Mori appeared in the book. Misha gets arrested, and Will and his friends are there to assist. I recommend reading the Devil’s Night series by Penelope Douglas if you haven’t been introduced to Will, Michael, and Kai yet.

There are some steamy/spicy moments between Ryen and Misha in this book. Library scene, the back of the black truck, bedroom, etc. Yes, Penelope Douglas knows to bring the spicy moments.

Overall, this book gets five stars, and I’ll find myself rereading it in the future since I had a hard time putting it down. Everything Penelope Douglas has written so far is addicting. Listed as one of my favorite authors, check.

Standalone or Part of Series: Standalone (If you read Devil’s Night by Penelope Douglas, some characters from that series appear in this book)

Steam/Spice Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Trope(s)/Element(s): Penpals (Friends) to Lovers; Enemies to Lovers; Bully Romance

Would I recommend this book? Yes. If you enjoy Young Adult/High School Bully Romance books, this book is for you.

Favorite Quote(s) : “ We were perfect for each other. Until we met.” and “We’re all ugly, Ryen. The only difference is, some hide it and some wear it.”

This post contains affiliate links you can use to purchase the book. If you buy the book using that link, I will receive a small commission from the sale. It will help sponsor future giveaways but costs you nothing extra. You can read the full disclosure underneath the  Privacy Policy .

About Penelope Douglas

Penelope Douglas is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Their books have been translated into nineteen languages and include The Fall Away Series, The Devil’s Night Series, and the stand-alones, Misconduct, Punk 57, Birthday Girl, Credence, and Tryst Six Venom. Please look for The Hellbent Series, coming next.

They live in New England with their husband and daughter.

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Punk 57 Summary and Review

Unveiling the raw power of connection.

• Author: Penelope Douglas
• Originally published: October 21, 2016
• Page Count: 343 pages, Kindle Edition
• Genres: Romance , Fiction

In a world where connections seem increasingly digital, there’s a novel that delves into the electrifying impact of an unexpected bond formed through pen and paper. Enter ‘Punk 57,’ a magnetic tale crafted by the talented author Penelope Douglas. This gripping Young Adult romance weaves a compelling narrative that has resonated with readers around the globe. As the pages turn, we are drawn into the lives of two characters who find solace, kinship, and a profound sense of self-discovery through an unconventional friendship. Today, in this spoiler-free blog post, we embark on an exhilarating journey through the core of ‘Punk 57,’ uncovering its themes, examining character depths, and discovering what makes this book an unputdownable gem. So, fasten your seatbelts, for we are about to explore the raw power of connection in the world of ‘Punk 57.’

Table of Contents

Brief Overview

At the heart of ‘Punk 57’ lies a tale of serendipitous friendship that transcends the boundaries of social norms. The story revolves around Misha and Ryen, two seemingly disparate souls whose paths collide through an unlikely pen-pal program. Misha, a fierce and enigmatic young man, and Ryen, a popular high school girl with a secret identity, share an intimate connection through handwritten letters exchanged over the years. As they delve deeper into each other’s thoughts, hopes, and fears, they form an unbreakable bond, finding solace in the honesty and vulnerability of their exchanged words.

The gripping plot unfurls when an unexpected twist of fate forces Misha and Ryen to confront their hidden identities and the stark contrast between their written personas and real-life selves. As their worlds intertwine, the lines between friendship and something deeper blur, setting the stage for a compelling exploration of self-discovery and the power of authentic connections. Throughout the narrative, the reader witnesses their personal growth and the evolving dynamics between these complex and flawed characters.

‘Punk 57’ brilliantly navigates themes of identity, trust, and the courage to be true to oneself, creating an emotional rollercoaster that leaves readers pondering the true essence of human connections. Penned with raw emotion and unapologetic authenticity, this novel by Penelope Douglas has captured the hearts of many and ignited thought-provoking discussions among readers worldwide.

Punk 57 Summary (Spoiler-Free)

‘Punk 57’ embarks on an exhilarating journey centered around the lives of Misha and Ryen, two distinct individuals who find themselves bound together by a unique pen-pal exchange. Despite occupying different social spheres in high school, Misha and Ryen share a profound emotional connection through their heartfelt letters, baring their souls to one another without judgment.

However, as fate intervenes and the truth about their identities is unveiled, Misha and Ryen are confronted with the stark realities of their respective lives. In a world dominated by cliques and social expectations, the duo must navigate through challenging decisions, desperate to reconcile their true selves with the façade they’ve built to survive their environments.

The central conflict arises from their struggle to maintain the connection they’ve cultivated through their letters while confronting the disparity between their public personas and the intimate bond they share in secret. Amidst this turmoil, Misha and Ryen embark on journeys of self-discovery, propelled by their growing understanding of one another and the revelations that come to light.

As their paths intertwine, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster, witnessing the profound impact that genuine connections can have on one’s sense of identity and purpose. With themes of authenticity, trust, and the courage to embrace one’s true self, ‘Punk 57’ challenges conventional notions of friendship and love, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the human heart’s capacity for understanding and compassion.

Penelope Douglas’ masterful storytelling brings this poignant narrative to life, evoking a range of emotions that resonate long after the final page is turned. ‘Punk 57’ stands as a testament to the power of honest connections and reminds us that sometimes, it is in the unlikeliest of places that we find our truest allies and, ultimately, ourselves.

Writing Style and Narrative

Penelope Douglas weaves her magic through ‘Punk 57′ with a writing style that captivates from the very first page. Her prose is a skillful balance of raw emotion and evocative storytelling, drawing readers into the lives of Misha and Ryen with every word. The narrative unfolds with a compelling blend of sincerity and intensity, making the characters’ journey feel palpably real.

One of the standout features of Douglas’ writing is her ability to delve deep into the complexities of human emotions. Through vivid descriptions and poignant inner monologues, she brings out the characters’ innermost thoughts, fears, and desires, making them incredibly relatable and endearing to readers. Each emotion is portrayed with authenticity, allowing readers to empathize and connect with the characters on a profound level.

The unique narrative element that sets ‘Punk 57′ apart is the incorporation of handwritten letters between Misha and Ryen. These intimate exchanges provide a window into the characters’ souls, offering glimpses of their vulnerabilities, dreams, and struggles. This epistolary approach adds depth to the storytelling, immersing readers in the tender moments shared between the protagonists and amplifying the impact of their connection.

Douglas masterfully intertwines heartwarming moments of camaraderie with heart-wrenching dilemmas, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout the journey. The story’s pacing is expertly crafted, creating a seamless flow that ensures a gripping reading experience from start to finish.

Furthermore, the author’s portrayal of the high school setting is both authentic and immersive, realistically capturing the challenges faced by adolescents in navigating friendships, social hierarchies, and personal identity. This resonant depiction makes the narrative all the more relatable to readers of various ages.

In conclusion, Penelope Douglas’ writing style in ‘Punk 57’ is a tour de force of emotional depth and engaging storytelling. Her ability to craft genuine connections between characters and readers alike, combined with the incorporation of personal letters, elevates the novel to a level of profound intimacy. Through her words, Douglas breathes life into the story, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who embark on this unforgettable journey of self-discovery and unyielding bonds.

Character Development

In ‘Punk 57,’ the character development shines as one of the novel’s most compelling aspects, skillfully navigating the transformation of Misha and Ryen as they navigate the tumultuous waters of adolescence and self-discovery.

Misha, a brooding and enigmatic young man, starts the story with a tough exterior that masks his true vulnerability. As the narrative unfolds, readers witness the layers of his character gradually peel away, revealing a complex individual shaped by past experiences and a yearning for acceptance. His interactions with Ryen through their letters offer a safe space for Misha to reveal his authentic self, and this newfound connection becomes a catalyst for his personal growth. Throughout the novel, Misha’s journey is marked by a search for identity and a desire to find his place in the world, making his character arc a deeply relatable and emotional experience for readers.

On the other hand, Ryen initially appears as the quintessential popular girl with an enviable social status. However, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that her public persona is a carefully constructed facade, a result of the pressure to conform to societal expectations. As Ryen grapples with the disconnect between her true self and the image she presents to others, her interactions with Misha offer a lifeline of authenticity. Through their exchange of letters, Ryen explores her own vulnerabilities and discovers the courage to embrace her genuine aspirations. Her character development is a testament to the power of self-reflection and the significance of sincere connections in shaping one’s identity.

Throughout the narrative, both Misha and Ryen face pivotal challenges and pivotal moments of growth, evolving from seemingly polar opposites into individuals who share a profound understanding of each other. Their experiences and the emotional depth of their journey evoke a sense of empathy and investment from readers, forging an unbreakable bond between audience and characters.

Penelope Douglas’ deft handling of character development breathes life into Misha and Ryen, infusing them with authenticity and relatability. Their transformation throughout the novel is a testament to the complexities of human nature and the enduring impact of meaningful connections. As readers witness their growth, they are reminded of the power of self-acceptance, friendship, and the unyielding potential to forge a true sense of self. ‘Punk 57’ stands as a poignant reminder that our experiences shape us, but it is our choices and connections that ultimately define who we become.

Reader’s Experience

As a book reviewer, delving into the world of ‘Punk 57′ was a captivating and emotionally charged experience that left an indelible impression on my heart. Penelope Douglas’ masterful storytelling drew me in from the very first page, immersing me in a tale of friendship, vulnerability, and the unyielding power of genuine connections.

What makes ‘Punk 57’ such a compelling read is the authenticity of the characters and their journey of self-discovery. Misha and Ryen’s emotional depth and relatable struggles instantly struck a chord with me, tugging at my heartstrings as I followed their intertwined paths. The use of handwritten letters to reveal their true selves was a brilliant narrative touch, creating a sense of intimacy that had me eagerly turning each page.

Douglas skillfully navigates the complexities of teenage emotions, addressing themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the courage to break free from societal expectations. Through Misha and Ryen’s experiences, I found myself reflecting on my own journey of self-discovery and the significance of genuine connections that transcend superficiality.

Moreover, the high school setting was vividly portrayed, capturing the challenges and dynamics of adolescent friendships and the social pressures that often define our lives during those formative years. The novel’s exploration of cliques and the masks we wear to fit in resonated deeply, making ‘Punk 57’ a poignant and thought-provoking read for readers of all ages.

As the plot unfolded, I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster, experiencing a gamut of feelings from joy and heartache to hope and empowerment. The unpredictability of the narrative kept me engaged, always yearning to uncover what lay ahead for Misha and Ryen.

In the end, ‘Punk 57’ left me with a profound appreciation for the power of authentic connections and the courage it takes to embrace our true selves. This beautifully written novel is a reminder that our paths are often intertwined with others in ways we may never expect, and it celebrates the beauty of finding understanding and support in the unlikeliest of places.

If you’re seeking a book that will make you laugh, cry, and ponder the intricacies of human relationships, ‘Punk 57’ is an absolute must-read. Its raw emotion, relatable characters, and powerful themes make it a compelling story that will leave a lasting impact on your heart. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions and an exploration of the transformative power of true connections – ‘Punk 57’ is a journey worth taking.

Critical Reception

‘Punk 57’ has garnered significant attention and acclaim from both readers and critics alike, cementing its status as a standout in the Young Adult (YA) romance genre. Fans of the book have praised Penelope Douglas for her exceptional storytelling and the raw emotional depth that permeates the narrative. Many readers have expressed a deep connection with the characters, applauding the authenticity with which the author portrays their struggles and growth.

The novel’s exploration of identity, friendship, and the power of genuine connections has resonated with a wide audience, sparking thoughtful discussions on the complexities of human relationships. Readers have been moved by the raw emotion and the unyielding courage displayed by Misha and Ryen throughout their journey, making ‘Punk 57’ a book that leaves a lasting impact on hearts and minds.

However, like any popular work, ‘Punk 57’ has also faced some criticisms. A small number of readers found certain plot elements to be predictable or expressed a desire for more extensive exploration of certain themes. Nonetheless, these viewpoints have not detracted from the overall acclaim that the novel has received.

Despite any minor criticisms, ‘Punk 57’ remains a beloved and widely celebrated book in the YA community. Its thought-provoking narrative and skillful character development have earned it a place among the ranks of compelling contemporary romance novels.

In terms of accolades, while specific awards and nominations may vary, ‘Punk 57’ has undoubtedly garnered a devoted fan base and positive reviews from reputable book bloggers and literary critics. Its widespread appeal and continued popularity attest to its enduring impact on readers and the lasting impression it leaves on those who embark on this heartfelt journey.

In conclusion, ‘Punk 57’ has received overwhelming praise from readers and critics, earning its place as a beloved novel within the YA romance genre. While some may have expressed minor criticisms, the book’s powerful themes, authentic character portrayal, and emotional depth have secured its spot as a memorable and cherished addition to the world of contemporary romance literature. If you’re seeking a heartfelt and thought-provoking read that delves into the intricacies of human connections, ‘Punk 57’ is a book that is sure to captivate and leave an impression on your heart.

In conclusion, ‘Punk 57′ is an emotionally charged and captivating YA romance that skillfully explores the power of genuine connections and the complexities of self-discovery. Penelope Douglas’ masterful storytelling, coupled with the use of handwritten letters to reveal the characters’ true selves, creates an intimate and relatable reading experience. The novel’s authentic portrayal of identity, friendship, and the courage to embrace one’s true self sets it apart, leaving a lasting impact on readers’ hearts.

The strengths of ‘Punk 57’ lie in its raw emotion, vivid character development, and thought-provoking exploration of human relationships. Misha and Ryen’s journey is filled with ups and downs, making it an emotional rollercoaster that resonates with readers of all ages.

I wholeheartedly encourage readers to pick up ‘Punk 57’ and embark on this unforgettable journey of friendship and self-discovery. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary romance or seeking a story that delves into the depths of human emotion, this book will not disappoint. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and reminded of the profound impact genuine connections can have on our lives. ‘Punk 57’ is a must-read that will linger in your heart long after the final page is turned.

About the Author

Penelope Douglas is a highly acclaimed author known for her mesmerizing storytelling and emotionally charged narratives. With a passion for delving into the complexities of human relationships, Douglas has captured the hearts of readers worldwide through her captivating contemporary romance novels. Born with an innate talent for crafting authentic characters, she has honed her writing skills to breathe life into the pages of her books. Penelope Douglas’ ability to explore themes of self-discovery, identity, and the power of genuine connections has earned her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Her works, including the beloved ‘Punk 57,’ continue to leave a lasting impression on readers, making her a celebrated figure in the realm of romance literature.

“ Dear fellow book enthusiasts and avid readers, I invite you to join in on the ‘Punk 57’ conversation and make our blog a vibrant hub for all things literature! Share your thoughts, reflections, and personal experiences after reading this emotionally charged novel. Did Misha and Ryen’s journey resonate with you? What were your favorite moments or themes explored? Your insights are invaluable and can inspire meaningful discussions among the community of book lovers.

Don’t hesitate to leave your comments below the blog post and engage in thoughtful exchanges with fellow readers. Your unique perspectives will enrich our understanding of ‘Punk 57’ and foster a sense of camaraderie among us.

Additionally, if this heartfelt review struck a chord with you, why not share it on your preferred social media platforms? By spreading the word about ‘Punk 57,’ you can introduce this captivating read to others who may also find it a compelling addition to their bookshelves. Together, let’s create a community of literary enthusiasts who embrace the beauty of storytelling and the transformative power of shared experiences.

Thank you for being a part of our book-loving community, and I look forward to reading your comments and seeing ‘Punk 57’ inspire discussions across various platforms. Happy reading and sharing! ” – Your Book Corner

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BOOK REVIEW – Punk 57 by Penelope Douglas

Synopsis: "We were perfect together. Until we met." Misha I can’t help but smile at the lyrics in her letter. She misses me. In fifth grade, my teacher set us up with pen pals from a different school. Thinking I was a girl, with a name like Misha, the other teacher paired me up with her student, Ryen. My teacher, believing Ryen was a boy like me, agreed. It didn’t take long for us to figure out the mistake. And in no time at all, we were arguing about everything. The best take-out pizza. Android vs. iPhone. Whether or not Eminem is the greatest rapper ever… And that was the start. For the next seven years, it was us. Her letters are always on black paper with silver writing. Sometimes there’s one a week or three in a day, but I need them. She’s the only one who keeps me on track, talks me down, and accepts everything I am. We only had three rules. No social media, no phone numbers, no pictures. We had a good thing going. Why ruin it? Until I run across a photo of a girl online. Name’s Ryen, loves Gallo’s pizza, and worships her iPhone. What are the chances? F*ck it. I need to meet her. I just don’t expect to hate what I find. Ryen He hasn’t written in three months. Something’s wrong. Did he die? Get arrested? Knowing Misha, neither would be a stretch. Without him around, I’m going crazy. I need to know someone is listening. It’s my own fault. I should’ve gotten his phone number or picture or something. He could be gone forever. Or right under my nose, and I wouldn’t even know it.

I don’t know what I did, but it had to be something, because when you find that everyone hates you, it’s not them. It’s you. – Ryen

Punk 57 was beautifully deep, insanely seductive and emotionally raw.  I was addicted just from the first page, and this book was impossible to put down.  Between the emotions the characters made me feel, to the story-line that kept begging for me to read one more page, I loved everything about this book.  Especially since Ryen and Misha’s story is brutally honest and showed the multiple sides of hurting people and even ourselves.  

Fuck. I put the pen to the paper and scrawl what my goddamn heart can only whisper. I miss you every day, I write . You’re my favorite place. And then I drop the pen and tear the paper out of my notebook. – Misha

Learning about their past was so adorable.  Ryen, a girl, and Misha, a boy, ended up becoming pen-pals in the 5th grade.  It all started when their teachers mixed up thinking Ryen was a boy and Misha was a girl. And even after school ended, they continued to write to one another.   For the last seven years they created a beautiful friendship with an unbreakable bond through their letters.  They poured their hearts out to one another.  They told each other their fears, hopes, thoughts and would even argue about everything from pizza to music.   But they always had three rules.  No phone, no social media and no pictures.  And even if they both wanted to break those rules at times, it becomes a moot point.  Because some of those rules are about to get thrown out the window.

What am I going to do with this girl? Just when I think I have her figured out, she pulls at me a little more. Just when I think I can’t stand her, and I can leave, never looking back, I turn right around and want to make sure nothing hurts her. – Misha

You see, as far as Ryen knows, Misha has disappeared for the last three months.  His letters have stopped, but she hasn’t given up hope.  She continues to write to her best friend and refuses to walk away from him, even when her sister thinks she’s crazy.   But the thing is, Misha hasn’t disappeared.  He’s right in front of her.  And he hates what he sees.

She straightens and turns to fix me with a look. “You called me a cunt and cut my hair. You think I’d actually trust you to protect me? Don’t blink too hard, Shit-for-Brains. You might lose your last few brain cells.” – Ryen to Misha

And this is where Punk 57 was both scorching hot and utterly heartbreaking.  Misha is brutal to Ryen.  He’s hurtful, mean and viscous to her with his words.  The scenes and situations between the two of them would leave my mouth open.  I couldn’t believe how he had just treated her.  Oh gosh, it felt as though my heart would burst and I just wanted to crawl into a hole and curl into a little ball.  But at the same point, I got why he acted the way he did.  And you learn early on, why he is the way he is to her.  So it was hard to be upset at him.  Especially when their sexual connection constantly exploded and was hard to ignore.

I part my lips, running them over the lip ring and savoring the feel as he groans and digs his fingers into my thighs. I tighten my legs around him, needing to feel him. “Bitch,” he whispers. “Loser.”

Misha has this sexuality that is subtle and insanely addicting.  He came off not only confident but intoxicating too.  Whether it was the looks he would give, or the words he would choose to use, he always left me wanting more.  And Ryen couldn’t help but be pulled in again and again, no matter how bad Misha hurt her.  The scenes between the two of them were beyond sexy, and so, so, so good!

“They don’t get you and me. I know that’s what you’re afraid of. You’re perfect. I’m never in line. You’re beautiful, and I’m bad, right?” – Misha to Ryen

Since we got to be in both Ryen and Misha’s head, we got to crawl into every single dirty, forbidden and brutally honest thought in their mind.  Nothing is held back, and it’s so addicting!  So Punk 57 easily went into my favorites list!  If you adore hate to love stories that are scorching hot, then you definitely want to discover this book!

PS Thanks for buddy reading with me Chels!

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• By Penelope Douglas

Contemporary Romance Romance Young Adult

January 23, 2017 at 2:34 pm

Ooh! This does sound Jen! And I do love books when they’re told in both the MCs POVS. You’ve convinced me. I’m adding this to my list!

January 23, 2017 at 11:04 pm

I love when books are told in both MCs POVs too! Punk 57 is gritty, sexy, mean and crazy addicting. I know it’s not something you’d normally read, so I’ll definitely be looking forward to your thoughts down the road. 🙂 I let one of my friends borrow this book and I’m counting the days until I can get it back so I can re-read some of my favorite scenes lol.

January 24, 2017 at 10:16 am

January 24, 2017 at 8:20 pm

Me too, hate to love romances are SO addicting! I can’t wait to see what you think *hides face behind hands because it’s a mean hate to love, but it’s done so fabulously!* lol.

January 24, 2017 at 10:50 am

January 24, 2017 at 8:22 pm

Pick it up, pick it up lol! It’s a super fast read and impossible to put down. ♥

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I read. i judge. you can't get enough., penelope douglas – punk 57 | review.

Punk 57 by Penelope Douglas is a romance novel like no other I’ve read before. And I am still unsure if that is a good or a bad thing…

This a story of two teenagers, both angsty, misunderstood and very much in love. For nearly seven years Ryen and Misha have been communicating through letters. Everything suddenly changes when they meet for the first time. The events that follow aren’t easily explained. This is a true coming of age story. We follow the tale of two kids being faced with life-changing circumstances that change their lives forever.

I must admit that for the first quarter of the book I considered dnfing it many times. The story was dragging. The part of the first chapter when we met Annie was simply to long. I didn’t find it engaging. Having finished the book I understand the importance of that dialogue, however, that doesn’t change my opinion. I simply don’t care about the character.

I did like, however, the way Penelope Douglas created realistically flawed characters. Ryen was brilliantly fleshed out, multidimensional. And Misha’s personality was twisted in a way that suited his life experiences. My appreciation of the character development stops there. I didn’t like the characters themselves. I don’t have the need to like the characters and I understand that sometimes people are simply unlikable. I don’t mention this as criticism, but simply as personal preference.

“We’re all ugly, Ryen. The only difference is, some hide it and some wear it.”

“You want to be loved without risking consequence, so you reach out to get the attention you need while enjoying the luxury of taking no responsibility for those words.”

As in many romance novels there was one thing that occurred. The sex scenes were, in my opinion, as realistic as possible. However, there is one particular scene that made me a bit uncomfortable. I understand that “ambiguous” consent isn’t uncommon in romance novels. This one particular scene I believe floats somewhere between “ambiguous” consent and non-consentual sex. I won’t be say anything else about it since I try to keep my reviews spoiler-free. If you wish, you can contact me to discuss it further.

I enjoy Douglas’ writing very much. It is very fluid and unforced. The descriptions are just the right length and enjoyable to read. Also, I find Douglas’ capability to create a realistic plot-twist incredible. Even though I predicted some of them I still enjoyed them very much.

PUNK 57 “Anything goes when everyone knows Where do you hide when their highs are your lows? So much, so hard, so long, so tired, Let them eat until you’re ground into nothing. Don’t you worry your glossy little lips, What they savor ‘ventually loses its flavor. I wanna lick, while you still taste like you.”

Oh, the ending. I think it cost this book half a star if not a whole star. I disliked it a lot. It was a weak ending to a otherwise solid book. I found it so unrealistic and idyllic I cringed. I don’t know what I expected, but it certainly wasn’t a happily-ever-after a teenager dreams of!

That’s everything I have to say about this book. I was expecting so much more so I can easily say I’m disappointed. I was entertained, but this time it wasn’t enough.

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[…] by Penelope Douglas is the second romance novel by this author I’ve read. And as well as in Punk 57, Douglas has created a relationship that is “borderline” abusive. It is my […]

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Review: Punk 57, by Penelope Douglas

This was one of those over-the-top high school stories that I could not put down. ‘Punk 57’ is my latest guilty pleasure. I enjoyed every implausible, melodramatic moment!

Misha Lare and Ryen Trevarrow have been pen-pals for years, ever since their teachers mistakenly thought they were the same gender in elementary school and assigned them as pen-pals for a class project. They’ve been writing to one another ever since. Over the years, the two have become best friends, even though they’ve never met in person. Now in high school, things are about to get impossibly complicated.

Misha’s band is close to getting their big break. He spots Ryen at a promotional event being held for his band and initiates a conversation. Never, does he tell her who he is. Unbeknownst to them at the time, that night will change everything.

Ryen is the type of girl you love to hate. She makes hating her easy. Popular, beautiful and nasty as hell, she is the type of “mean girl” that are the source of high school nightmares. She is a bully, but she doesn’t hate anyone nearly as much as she hates herself. The only person she’s ever allowed to glimpse the person that she really wants to be is Misha, the pen-pal that she’s never even met in person.

When Masen Laurent starts attending Ryen’s school, she is immediately caught off-guard by the hot new guy that gives her a taste of her own medicine. He isn’t afraid of her and he makes it a point to call her out on all of her horrible ways. In fact, he seems to be on a personal mission to bring her down a few rungs.

As Ryen’s rivalry with Masen heats up, she is forced to face the person that she’s become. Misha has stopped writing to her without explanation and Ryen is feeling lower than she’s ever felt before. Her walls seem to be closing in on her, as she is forced to choose between the person she has become and the person she wants to be.

While there is a “secret” in this story, it isn’t really a surprise to readers. In fact, you know the big twist all along and it is just a matter of waiting for the characters to figure everything out. That being said, it doesn’t make the big reveal any less explosive.

From start to finish, I could not put this book down. It was full of high school melodrama and a pretty unrealistic storyline, but I loved every minute. After all, who wants to read something that sounds like your daily routine? Not me. This book was emotional and addictive. I loved it!

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7 thoughts on “ review: punk 57, by penelope douglas ”.

I feel very intrigued by this book! Your review is great, now I just want to read it even more: D

Like Liked by 1 person

It was great. I hope you love it also. Enjoy!

Now you make me curious… It seems very exciting and lately I’ve read only “mature” books. I need a little high-school romance in my life:)))

This is a great one, Ramona! I loved it. Very high school, but highly entertaining. I hope you love it also. Enjoy! 🙂 xoxo

i love your review!!! and really the book was amazing!😍😍😍 mind to check out my review ? https://littlebookbar.wordpress.com/2016/11/07/punk-57-by-penelope-douglas/ Thanks!☺😊

Thanks! Will do. 🙂 xoxo

I checked it out again, but I had already “liked” it. 😉 xoxo

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My Review: Punk 57: by Penelope Douglas

Total Star Rating: 3.75 Stars

I will admit that this book was a total guilty pleasure to read, and I can say that it delivers on the criteria that I’m sure other readers that like this sort of book are looking for. There’s angst, there’s the asshole male protagonist who’s somehow likeable too, there’s sex (like lots of it in the 2nd half), and there’s a satisfying lesson to be learned from the overall story.

This novel reminds me of the movies where actors into their 20 or even 30’s play high school students and were all supposed to believe that it’s actually realistic, because there’s plenty of boys in high school that look like John Tucker, right?

I mean, I wished there was actually someone as attractive as Jesse Metcalfe, but the teenage years are not always as friendly as we’d like them to be (This may be why America is so messed up about personal appearance and expectations, but that’s another can of worms to open some other time).

Anyways, the book was enjoyable enough for what it was, I became interested with the story with Ryen and Misha and their complex relationship. It was an interesting premise that initially intrigued me, and the reviews and book score on Goodreads furthered my interest to the point of me actually willing to give it a try. It’s self published, so that lead to other expectations, but honestly, it’s a hit or miss with those at this point. Some authors that go the self publish route are actually quite good at what they do, it’s just a matter of weeding through and discovering for yourself what’s good and what is just Twilight , 50 Shades, or other trashy fan-fiction.

I can say that this particular story is incredibly well written and worth looking into.

What It’s About:

Misha and Ryen have been pen pals since the 5th grade; their unique names fooled their teacher’s into thinking each of them were the opposite genders. Ryen is actually female, and Misha is male, and they discover that for themselves when they continue to write to each other over time. They live in towns that are side to side, and they talked about everything that went on in each other’s lives, each becoming a special person that they could open up to and confide to in ways they couldn’t with anyone else. They also share ideas and lyrics for Misha’s band, but they’d argue over a lot too, but one thing they always agreed on was keeping their relationship only in their letters; no looking each other up, no texting, no Facebook friend requests where they could see what the other looks like. They liked the anonymity about it. They continue all the way until their senior years of high school.

Misha’s band is hosting a party at an abandoned warehouse over in his town, and his band has a contest going on social media. He’s casually looking through the videos entered, and on screen a girl calls the camera person “Ryen” and Misha’s system is shocked. He eventually comes face to face with her, and she doesn’t know its him. He’s disappointed to find out that she’s one of the popular Queen Bee’s at her school, shallow and an exact copy of someone she’d complain about in her letters over the years. She remains in the dark on him, and they go their separate ways, when an unexpected tragedy crushes his world, Misha disappears and stops writing back to her…

Three months later, Ryen is still hurt as to why Misha all of a sudden goes MIA, but can’t open up to anyone about it, because she doesn’t actually trust anyone who she calls her “friend.” She knows anything out of the ordinary could have her falling off her precarious pedestal that she fought so hard to climb to, so she patiently waits for her senior year to end and so she can escape from the fake, plastic facade that she created and start over somewhere else. Things take an interesting turn when a new guy, Masen, unexpectedly shows up and seems to go out of his way to make her life a living hell.

What I liked:

• The Mystery and the Twists! I will say that there’s one twist that’s immediately revealed, not that it was all that much of a mystery anyways, but the author managed to slip in a few surprises that I actually didn’t expect; the one at the end of course being the most shocking (not to mention tragic). The mystery of the story is that Misha comes to Ryen’s town and stays there; he’s looking for something. It’s ever so slowly revealed as the story develops, but of course gets overshadowed by the romance aspect of the story. It’s expected, but honestly, I wish the author played up the mystery factor even more with Misha’s story arc. Make us guess more about the significance of the objects he collects, the places he goes, and the reactions he has towards certain people.
• The Chemistry! Ryen and Misha have a great dynamic in the story. It’s a whirlwind of of a relationship, and is quite unique compared to a lot of other stories that I’ve read within the romance genre or any fiction. While it’s not entirely realistic, mainly with the sex involved, the entertainment value doesn’t go down. It was fun to see how their relationship changed throughout and what they both had to do in order for it get to where it ended up.
• The Writing Style! It’s a slippery slope to go down with self published books, because it may mean that the author’s style or editing may not be on par with works that have gotten the traditional publishing treatment, but this author’s words flowed incredibly well on the pages and it didn’t feel amateurish or not properly edited in any way. It’s always a shame when things like that distract readers from the actual story. Penelope Davis definitely knows her craft.

What I Didn’t Like:

• The Unrealistic Love Scenes/Dialogue/Character Appearances . They were incredibly hot to read, don’t get me wrong. In fact, I’m not even entirely sure if it’s something I can say I even disliked, but I still think it’s something to critique on and point out. Spoiler Alert except not really…Ryen and Misha have sex…I know, it’s shocking to me too. Sorry for the major leak of the book…The critique about it is that the way it’s written is that these two have sex like they’re freakin’ porn stars. They’re high school seniors, Ryen even admits that she’s only been with one other guy once before. Somehow I couldn’t help but think about what was going down, tilt my head and pinch my eyebrows together and say, “ okay whatever… ” It’s good stuff, the author writes those scenes well, but it’s a bit unrealistic. Where’s the awkward fumbling? the embarrassing little moments that go with those that do the nasty their first couple of times. Either Misha watches A LOT of porn, or is just naturally a sex god or something….while only being in high school. Misha also is mentioned having multiple tattoos across his body, and he’s only, like, supposed to be 18 years old…How was he able to legally acquire all the tattoos covering? maybe he’s actually in his 20’s or thirties? Also some of the dialogue is pretty unrealistic, particularly with the antagonist of the story who happens to be Ryen’s prom date for most of the story, but some of the stuff he says is kind of cringeworthy, like, I know he’s supposed to be a sketchy dude who’s also the most popular guy in school (Think Bryce in 13 Reasons Why , book or tv show it doesn’t matter), but who actually talks like this? I know I said the writing is pretty good in this book, but I swear, these are the only bad parts of it. Little characterizations flaws that take away from the authenticity of the story, but then again…it’s erotic romance, it’s not supposed to be award winning stuff.

Conclusion:

Overall, it’s an extremely enjoyable book for those who like romance/erotic fiction. For a self published title, it reads super well, and has some great characters to get behind. Both Ryen and Misha have their asshole moments, like, it gets pretty bad at some points, but as you read along, and see what’s going on in their head, it becomes a little more understandable about their actions. Justifiable?…questionable, but I still enjoyed the title nonetheless. It makes me interested enough to possibly check out other titles by the author.

Thanks for Reading!

— Nick Goodsell

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Review: Punk 57

ABOUT THE BOOK

Secrets, deception, and passion consume two pen pals in the TikTok sensation from New York Times bestselling author Penelope Douglas, now with exclusive bonus material. 

They were perfect together. Until they met.

In fifth grade, Misha’s teacher set him and his classmates up with pen pals from a different school. For the next seven years, Ryen was his everything. She kept Misha on track and accepted him as he is. They only had three rules: No social media, no phone numbers, no pictures. There was no reason to ruin the good thing they had going…until Misha runs across a photo of a girl online named Ryen. He knows he has to meet her. But he didn’t expect to hate what he finds.

Ryen has gone three months without a letter from Misha. Did he die? Get arrested? Knowing Misha like she does, neither would be a stretch. She needs to know someone is listening to her. But really, Ryen knows this is her own fault. She should’ve gotten his phone number, or picture, or something.

As a mysterious vandal leaves messages in Ryen’s school, she’s possessed by the handsome new student who knows just how to hurt and heal her. But she can’t stop thinking of Misha. He could be gone forever. Or right under her nose, and she wouldn’t even know it…

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Book Review: Punk 57

Months ago I read Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas and loved it so I knew I wanted to read more by her. I’d been hearing about Punk 57 for a long time and I finally read it this week.

Punk 57 is a dual POV and follows Ryen and Misha, seniors in high school. Ryan and Misha have been pen pals and best friends since they were in 5th grade. They live 30 minutes away from each other, but have never met. Then 3 months ago, Ryen stopped receiving letters from Misha and she has no idea why. She promised him a long time ago that she would never stop writing to him no matter what so she has still been writing to him.

3 months ago, Misha went through a tragic event and has been barely coping ever since. When he needed Ryen the most, he was unable to write to her – unable to put his feelings into words and on paper. But now part of his healing process is to spend the last 6 weeks of senior year at a different high school with a specific mission in mind. One of the good and bad things about going to this school is that it’s Ryen’s high school. But she’ll never know it’s him because he is attending under a fake identity, Masen Laurent. He’ll finally get to see her in person, but when he does she is the opposite of what he expected. She is a popular cheerleader who is rude and bullies the less popular kids. She is everything she has always claimed to hate in her letters. Meanwhile, Ryen can’t figure out why the new kid at school seems to have it out for her and why she feels drawn and attracted to him when he’s done nothing but try to bring her down. Can Misha get over the fact that Ryen is not who she says she is? And if/when he reveals his true identity, will Ryen forgive him for deceiving her?

I really liked this book. When the tragic event takes place at the beginning of the book I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to get over the sadness of it and enjoy the book, but I’m glad I stuck with it because I ended up really liking it. Ryen annoyed me a little bit for the first half of the day with how she was acting and treating people, but as you get to know her better and learn about her past you realize why she is the way she is and then I ended up liking her.

The friendship between Misha and Ryen is really beautiful and I love how since the time that they were kids they had each other and felt like the other was the one that understood them the best.

There was a twist at the end that I really did not see coming at all so that made the book have even more depth in my opinion.

Overall I really liked this book. There is something really relatable to aspects of what the characters go through here which is wanting to be accepted, wanting friends and not wanting to be an outcast/wanting to be included and sometimes doing whatever it takes – even becoming someone else or giving up parts of yourself to make it happen. I also found out that the this takes place in the same world as her Devil’s Night series – Misha is cousins with one of the main characters from that series and we even meet him in Punk 57 . That series is on my tbr so I’ll get to it eventually!

Read this if you want a spicy childhood friends to lovers romance that’s considered a bully romance.

P.S. If you’ve read this book already then you know the significance of the scarf in my photo! #iykyk

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Punk 57 by Penelope Douglas (Review by Sara D’Onofrio)

Rating: 2.5/5

I think I’ve finally decided that Penelope Douglas books are a hit or miss for me. Sometimes I fly through them and start recommending them to everything, and then other times, I leave feeling so disappointed. Unfortunately, it was the latter for me with this book. What annoys me more is when a storyline HAS the potential to be great, but then the writing falls flat. I felt like most of this book was written on such a superficial level. The effect of Annie’s passing on Mischa could have been explained on a deeper level and given the reader an opportunity to really feel Mischa’s pain. Her death felt glossed over even though it was a main point in the story. There was no discussion of how Mischa and his dad came back together and what their reconciliation was like for both of them. It was pretty evident who Mischa’s mother was, but it felt so rushed to have their only interaction be in her office for all of three pages. How did Mischa’s dad feel about hearing from her? What did he have to say to his son when he found out he made contact? What did he think about finally getting his family heirloom back in the rightful hands? Moments that I expected to be bigger and make me feel a deep connection to the characters, felt brief and shallow. The one saving grace with any of Penelope Douglas’s books… her ability to write an intimate scene! The library and drive-in scenes, for me, were top notch. The tension was off the charts, and I could actually imagine those moments in my head. The scene was set so clearly, and each movement, breath, graze, I literally felt. Overall, not my favorite book of hers, but it won’t stop me from reading more!

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Punk 57 Book Summary: Punk 57 Book Review

Before I started writing this Punk 57 Book Review I read a few reviews on Goodreads to see what everybody else thought. Booktok is also all over the moon about this book and some people on Facebook Groups about romance are too. So, I had to check this out for myself. I read in a review that we must not judge a character by the way we believe they should act based on our own actions. And, honestly, I don’t think I do that. I picked up this book with nothing in my mind, I didn’t even read the synopsis before starting it. However, it’s really hard not to judge a character who is not short of despicable. I try not to judge, I do! But, this time it was impossible. Sometimes, I’m shocked by what romance readers like. If they liked THIS, then, the bar is REALLY low. It feels like people read these books IGNORING all the plot and relationship facts just to read the smut part, which is the only part that is the saving grace of this. So, let’s start this Punk 57 book review and Punk 57 book summary. Sighs.

Punk 57 Book Summary: No spoilers

Misha and Ryen have been pen-pal friends for 7 years. They’d never met and promised to never meet not to ruin their relationship. However, they live only 50km apart, in small towns, and Misha is part of a band, that promotes an event in a place close to Ryen’s town. To his surprise, she’s there. She doesn’t recognize him but he does. He doesn’t say anything, though.

Some months later, a mysterious new student shows up in Ryen’s high school. She is a popular, vain, cheerleader, who bullies other people and has a relationship with the quarterback. She is surrounded by fake friends who clearly hate each other, but she despises the idea of being alone. This new kid is a punk, looks like a delinquent, and seems to hate her, as she’s a bully and she steals some stuff from him (without knowing it was him). At the same time, someone has been vandalizing the school with graffiti, and everybody thinks it’s this new student, Masen.

They hate each other until one day when they meet late at night, at school, and a secret is revealed. The relationship is still toxic and bitter, full of bullying and hate, but, now, they start f*cking.

The Official Punk 57 Summary:

“We were perfect together. Until we met.” Misha I can’t help but smile at the words in her letter. She misses me. In fifth grade, my teacher set us up with pen pals from a different school. Thinking I was a girl, with a name like Misha, the other teacher paired me up with her student, Ryen. My teacher, believing Ryen was a boy like me, agreed. It didn’t take long for us to figure out the mistake. And in no time at all, we were arguing about everything. The best take-out pizza. Android vs. iPhone. Whether or not Eminem is the greatest rapper ever… And that was the start. For the next seven years, it was us. Her letters are always on black paper with silver writing. Sometimes there’s one a week or three in a day, but I need them. She’s the only one who keeps me on track, talks me down, and accepts everything I am. We only had three rules. No social media, no phone numbers, no pictures. We had a good thing going. Why ruin it? Until I run across a photo of a girl online. Name’s Ryen, loves Gallo’s pizza, and worships her iPhone. What are the chances? F*ck it. I need to meet her. I just don’t expect to hate what I find. Ryen He hasn’t written in three months. Something’s wrong. Did he die? Get arrested? Knowing Misha, neither would be a stretch. Without him around, I’m going crazy. I need to know someone is listening. It’s my own fault. I should’ve gotten his number or picture or something. He could be gone forever. Or right under my nose, and I wouldn’t even know it. 

Punk 57 Book Review – What I Liked about Punk 57: *Maybe Some Spoilers*

So, I figured I should start with the good part before starting absolutely bashing a book. Before I started, I thought about myself: “focus, Isadora, you must have seen SOMETHING good at least.” So, I came up with this list, and I’ll analyze it topic by topic:

• Misha is interesting
• The pen pal thing is cool
• I thought it was about a band
• The smutty scenes are goods
• There’s a cool plot twist

Punk 57 Book Review: Misha is Interesting

Okay, so I love my punk characters. When I read the book title, I was immediately interested. Who doesn’t love a bad boy? I have written myself a book about young delinquents ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09RGM7CJL ).

And, the first chapter is really good. Misha is nice, interesting, and mysterious. Most of these bad boy guys are as*holes and this is different with him. He cares about his sister, he’s in love with this girl, he goes to this party to support his friends, he’s in a band. The setting of the first chapter is also really cool. He has great chemistry with his friends, and his personality is nice.

I just wish it had lasted…

Punk 57 Book Review: The Pen Pal Thing

I had never written a romance book where the main characters were pen pal friends. I thought the letters were cool and mysterious and, like the characters, I wanted to get more letters, and see what was happening in them. Read how different they were behaving in the letter versus in real life. Develop these two personalities, the letter one and the real one.

Too bad Misha stops writing them AFTER THE FIRST CHAPTER! Ugh. He spends the rest of the book hurt because the real Ryen is different than the Ryen in the letters, and I thought this sucked.

Punk 57 Book Review: I thought it was about a band

The first chapter has a super cool scenario where the two characters meet and they’re at this party with Misha’s band. The party is to get money for a tour, and as the name is PUNK, I thought music and this band thing would play a huge part in the story.

Man, was I wrong.

Punk 57 Book Review: The smutty scenes are goods

I was at 50% of the book and the sex hadn’t started yet. I thought this was a lost cause, it probably was a clean book… when they finally started getting going. FINALLY! The sex scenes were good and hot. They have a lot of chemistry in those. The only problem is when they put their pants on again and go back to talking. Then, ugh. But after half of the book, there are loads of sex scenes, which makes it much better than before.

It’s just sad that because of that, many readers give this book 5 stars, ignoring all the rest. By the time I got to the sex scenes, I hated them both so much that I almost felt like skipping their intimacy moment.

Punk 57 Book Review: There’s a Cool Plot Twist

I won’t ruin it for you but there’s a cool plot twist on who the Punk is. I’ll only say that.

Punk 57 Book Review – What I Hated about Punk 57: *Maybe Some Spoilers*

• The freaking female protagonist, who is a bully, and a terrible human being;
• How ridiculous it all feels;
• How forced the relationship is, no chemistry at all;
• The high school drama
• The other characters: Trey and Lyla, and poor Manny

Punk 57 Book Review: Ryen SUCKS

When I started writing this review, I literally could not remember the protagonist’s name. I think I hated her so much that my brain forgot her name. She’s despicable. She’s a bully, she hates who she is but she keeps doing that, she’s shallow, she’s a liar; she doesn’t have not even ONE REDEEMING quality.

I know it’s hard to write female characters. Usually, the girls are judged harshly. If they’re weak, they’re the weak princess waiting for her prince to save her, a bad-developed character. If they’re too strong, they’re unrealistic, a tomboy that hates feminine stuff and thinks tears are bad. I GET IT. But in this case, there’s nothing that helps Ryen’s case. She’s one of those shallow popular girl stereotypes that we love to hate. And instead of breaking this stereotype, she just makes it worse! She sometimes says “I know I shouldn’t be like this but I don’t like to not fit in.” We have a small pinch of hope that she’ll get some self-reflection but she just shrugs it off and keeps being terrible.

As a writer myself, I know how it is to write female characters. It is hard. I’m all for twisted characters. They can start as an horrible ass, but they will grow in the story and learn something. Ryen doesn’t. She doesn’t change at all. She’s just a spoiled brat bully surrounded by terrible friends. If someone changed, this is Misha, who changed to fit what she wanted of a guy and became a bully himself.

Punk 57 Book Review: How Ridiculous It All Feels

Everything is bad. The writing is bad. The scenarios are bad. Misha starts living under a different name in a different city, being basically homeless, and he still gets to go to school every day, and the thing that’s in his mind is this popular cheerleader bully. How did he enroll in school with a different name? Where does he get money? How could he live in this abandoned theme park? Why is there power in this abandoned theme park? This whole book feels like a fantasy. It ignores worldbuilding, character building, relationship building, etc.

Punk 57 Book Review: How forced the relationship is, no chemistry at all;

I love myself a good enemies to lovers story. Usually, they hate each other but they have chemistry, they’re always flirting beneath the acid comments.

Not here, my friends. There. IS. NO. Chemistry at all. It’s awkward, forced, disgusting. Misha gets close to her on the first day they meet, licks her cheek, and tells her that she tastes like shit.

When they talk, I feel like my eyes are going to go inside my skull of how hard I roll them.

Misha is a completely different person when he’s with her. He stops being nice and caring to become a bully asshole. Not in a good way. It’s just terrible. Every time they interact you wish that they would suddenly die just to make it end sooner.

Punk 57 Book Review: The High School Drama

When the book starts and they’re in a party with a band, marijuana, alcohol, cool guys, I thought, wow, cool! And then, the next day, THEY ARE IN HIGH SCHOOL! NOOOOOOOOO!

I thought these guys would be 20-something but they’re actually 17. Minors.

Disgusting. Wrong. The high school drama is so ridiculous. They’re deciding who they’re going to prom with. And here I thought they would be on a world tour with a band. No, they have to sit their exams still and ask mommy and daddy for money to go to the cinema on the weekend.

No. Freaking. Way.

Punk 57 Book Review: All The Other Characters

And here you thought that Ryen and Misha were bad. Wait till you hear about Tyler (is it Tyler? I forgot now. Yes. He’s this insignificant) and Lyla.

Okay, I checked my notes and it’s Trey, not Tyles. He’s a quarterback asshole of kinds, with absolutely no chemistry again, borderline rapist, and Ryen hates him. But still accepts going out with him. Why? Because! There’s no self-reflection, no ulterior motive besides “I don’t like not fitting in.” For goodness sake.

Lyla is “her best friend” who fucks Trey behind her back, always messes with her, and they’re clearly hateful. They hate each other. But they insist they’re friends. Again, is there a self-reflection there? Absolutely none. She’s friends with her because she’s the popular kid, and that’s it.

And there’s this poor emo kid, Manny, who doesn’t say one word. He’s there just to be bullied by Trey, Lyla, and, of course, Ryen. He’s a character who has no life of his own, he was invented just to serve the purpose of being bullied by these stupid kids. I was SO hoping that there would be a plot twist where Manny went there and killed all of them, making this book at least a little interesting.

Punk 57 Book Review Questions and Answers:

I found these questions on Google, so I thought I’d answer some.

What type of book is Punk 57?

Punk 57 fits in a very specific subgenre called: Dark High School Bully Romance (contemporary, not paranormal)

Is Punk 57 appropriate?

Punk 57 is absolutely not appropriate, actually, the only good part is the 18+ scenes.

Is Punk 57 a bully romance?

Punk 57 is a bully romance. A Dark High School Bully Romance.

Is Misha from Punk 57 a girl or boy?

Misha is a boy. Both Ryen and Misha have gender-neutral names, and that’s why they started to be pen pals, their teachers thought Misha was a girl and Ryen was a boy.

What does the title Punk 57 mean?

Punk 57 title analysis: the Punk part is because of a Punk that’s graffitiing the school and nobody knows who they are. We find it out later on in the book. The 57 part, I believe, is because of a poem that Misha writes about being 57 ways f*cked up, almost like Christian Grey says he’s 50 shades of fucked up.

Why is Punk 57 Inappropriate? Should a 15-year-old read Punk 57? Does Punk 57 have Spice?

Punk 57 is inappropriate because it’s full of spice, and is also a terrible book. And no, no 15-year-old should read this.

How long does it take to read Punk 57?

I read Punk 57 in under 2 hours.

Punk 57 Book Review: Final Thoughts

Absolutely horrible. Not worth it. If you want to read smut, there are a bunch of better books out there to do so. You don’t need to waste time with this one. My thoughts are exactly the same as those of these girls on Goodreads:

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