I'm so depressed and heartbroken that I can't breathe or stop crying. 
 Yesterday, as I begin my first Nicholas Sparks book, I wasn't very impressed. Sure, I watched some of the movies based on his books, but I never read anything by him. The writing isn't that great and it's fraught with cliche's. Nevertheless, I found myself hooked. There's just something about this book that kept me wanting more and I have no idea what it is. 
 I had a nagging feel over where this book was heading from the opening paragraph, but I choose to ignore it. I started hoping and convincing myself that I was wrong, that the characters will get some sort of happy ending, any ending but this! Alas, I was right. The last chapter was just crushing. I couldn't read the words, I wanted to closed my eyes and wish them away. They tore at me like nothing else. God! This book was just a train wreck! From beginning to end. Misery piled upon misery!! What is wrong with Sparks?? Must all his novels be devastation!? 
 I can't rate this. Sparks used the most depressing and heartbreaking story line he can think of and shoved it in our faces. It's a cheap shot. Anyone would feel sad after such an ending, regardless of the quality of the book. Now we know where John Green's inspiration comes from. Think up the saddest characters and shove them in the most depressing situations imaginable, then prey on your readers frail emotions. But Augh! I've fallen right into the trap and I'm completely ensnared emotionally, what a mess. 
 I'm not giving it a rating. As far as quality goes, it won't get more than a 3. However, I'm just so distraught by the ending that I feel obliged to give it a 5. I will not be emotionally manipulated! I'm sorry Mr. Sparks, but this is one 5 star you will not be receiving. 
 Note to Self: Never read a Nicholas Sparks book again.