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Imagine Living
It's 1980, Liverpool, Robyn is happy living with May, her nan. She is safe and well cared for. When her nan dies, sixteen-year-old Robyn finds herself homeless. She dreams of finding her father and finding a home. But she has no idea where to begin her search. Imagine Living opens as Robyn is working in her first job, in Waterford's Bakery. It is here she meets an array of characters who befriend her, but some of the characters are dangerous, searching for the most vulnerable in society to exploit. Robyn must find ways to escape them, as she is forced into navigating her own way in the world, doing her utmost to stay alive.
Throughout Imagine Living, readers are jolted with unexpected surprises, through the kindness of strangers and heartwarming moments of joy. How can Robyn be both living on the streets, where violence and poverty prevail, and own a Dior dress? And how will she handle being blackmailed and bullied? Robyn is in possession of an unstoppable sense optimism and loyalty to those she loves. Her kindness is seen by some as a weakness. But don't cross her, as she's formidable at protecting herself, described by many who meet her as a survivor.
Throughout Imagine Living, readers are jolted with unexpected surprises, through the kindness of strangers and heartwarming moments of joy. How can Robyn be both living on the streets, where violence and poverty prevail, and own a Dior dress? And how will she handle being blackmailed and bullied? Robyn is in possession of an unstoppable sense optimism and loyalty to those she loves. Her kindness is seen by some as a weakness. But don't cross her, as she's formidable at protecting herself, described by many who meet her as a survivor.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2023
63 people are currently reading
688 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 7, 2023
In the 1980’s Robyn has been working hard at the local bakery under a government scheme and had been hoping to be made permanent. However, her dreams of a stable life are turned upside down when her beloved Nan passes away and Robyn finds herself homeless. Desperate to keep her job and her friends and absolutely determined not to move far away with her mother after an abusive upbringing, Robyn finds herself struggling through some difficult and terrifying situations, showing her grit and courage as she strives to find her father and some stability in the chaos. As Robyn navigates her new life, she finds herself making some new friends (and enemies) along the way.
I loved the characters in this book, they were complex and flawed and I felt as though I was there with Robyn at some points, willing her to run and stay safe. Some characters were completely unpredictable, and I enjoyed not knowing where this journey would take her.
When I read this book I did not know that it was the second book in a series to Disappearing Home, this book stands alone without having to read the first but I will definitely be reading it next and cannot wait for the next book by Deborah Morgan. 5 stars
I loved the characters in this book, they were complex and flawed and I felt as though I was there with Robyn at some points, willing her to run and stay safe. Some characters were completely unpredictable, and I enjoyed not knowing where this journey would take her.
When I read this book I did not know that it was the second book in a series to Disappearing Home, this book stands alone without having to read the first but I will definitely be reading it next and cannot wait for the next book by Deborah Morgan. 5 stars
February 19, 2024
This was an unexpected book to arrive on my doorstep. Quite literally! Author Deborah Morgan, reached out offering a signed copy of her book, Imagine Living. After reading the book description and praise for her work, I graciously accepted. I am so glad I did!
Imagine Living, set in 1980, follows the main character, Robyn, from her first novel, Disappearing Home. I have not yet read Disappearing Home and had no difficulty reading Imagine Living first. Robyn is a 16-year-old hard working, young woman doing her best to navigate the cards life has dealt. She is an impressive character, which makes it easy to forget her young age. Robyn works at Waterford’s Bakery and lives with her grandmother, Nan. Circumstances unexpectedly change for Robyn and she decides to be homeless rather than return to a toxic home environment with her mom.
Needless to say, making such a decision comes with many dangers and hardships. Nevertheless, Robyn is extremely strong and wise for her age. She navigates dangerous events and is awed by the kindness of the people who care about her. Her character is an inspiration. She is an excellent friend and dedicated employee. Part of Robyn’s journey includes searching for her father who has been absent from her life.
Once I had the opportunity to immerse myself into Robyn’s story, I couldn’t put the book down until I finished. There is humor amidst the tragedies and suffering. It’s an extremely heartfelt story. I love the ending and wish Robyn all the best!
A heartfelt thank you to Deborah Morgan for offering me such an incredible piece of your art. I have loved my time with Robyn.
I have photos and additional information that I'm unable to include here. It can all be found on my blog, in the link below.
A Book And A Dog
Imagine Living, set in 1980, follows the main character, Robyn, from her first novel, Disappearing Home. I have not yet read Disappearing Home and had no difficulty reading Imagine Living first. Robyn is a 16-year-old hard working, young woman doing her best to navigate the cards life has dealt. She is an impressive character, which makes it easy to forget her young age. Robyn works at Waterford’s Bakery and lives with her grandmother, Nan. Circumstances unexpectedly change for Robyn and she decides to be homeless rather than return to a toxic home environment with her mom.
Needless to say, making such a decision comes with many dangers and hardships. Nevertheless, Robyn is extremely strong and wise for her age. She navigates dangerous events and is awed by the kindness of the people who care about her. Her character is an inspiration. She is an excellent friend and dedicated employee. Part of Robyn’s journey includes searching for her father who has been absent from her life.
Once I had the opportunity to immerse myself into Robyn’s story, I couldn’t put the book down until I finished. There is humor amidst the tragedies and suffering. It’s an extremely heartfelt story. I love the ending and wish Robyn all the best!
A heartfelt thank you to Deborah Morgan for offering me such an incredible piece of your art. I have loved my time with Robyn.
I have photos and additional information that I'm unable to include here. It can all be found on my blog, in the link below.
A Book And A Dog
August 5, 2023
4.5⭐
Imagine Living transports you to 1980s Liverpool, where sixteen-year-old Robyn is happily living with her nan May and working her first job at a bakery earning a small but welcome wage. When May after an operation returns home and suddenly passes away and Robyn's young life is altered forever.
However, Robyn proves to be a resilient young woman, even though she finds herself alone, grieving her nan and homeless after refusing to live with her mother in Scotland.
And as the story unfolds author Debroah Morgan takes you on an emotional journey, full of highs and lows. As Robyn tries to make sense of her new reality. Whilst searching for her father and a new place to call home and through it all she meets a wide variety of characters. Some of whom are willing to offer help and support whilst others just want to take advantage and sadly they do. But somehow Robyn manages to remain remarkably strong.
And it's all set against a backdrop of Blondie, Levi jeans and Thatchers Britain.
And it was a really engaging and uplifting story. That easily kept me reading even though it's not my usual genre and I'd happily recommend Imagine Living to others. And am genuinely intrigued to see what happens to Robyn next.
My thanks to author Debroah Morgan, who kindly provided me with a free copy of Imagine Living. 😊
Imagine Living transports you to 1980s Liverpool, where sixteen-year-old Robyn is happily living with her nan May and working her first job at a bakery earning a small but welcome wage. When May after an operation returns home and suddenly passes away and Robyn's young life is altered forever.
However, Robyn proves to be a resilient young woman, even though she finds herself alone, grieving her nan and homeless after refusing to live with her mother in Scotland.
And as the story unfolds author Debroah Morgan takes you on an emotional journey, full of highs and lows. As Robyn tries to make sense of her new reality. Whilst searching for her father and a new place to call home and through it all she meets a wide variety of characters. Some of whom are willing to offer help and support whilst others just want to take advantage and sadly they do. But somehow Robyn manages to remain remarkably strong.
And it's all set against a backdrop of Blondie, Levi jeans and Thatchers Britain.
And it was a really engaging and uplifting story. That easily kept me reading even though it's not my usual genre and I'd happily recommend Imagine Living to others. And am genuinely intrigued to see what happens to Robyn next.
My thanks to author Debroah Morgan, who kindly provided me with a free copy of Imagine Living. 😊
December 17, 2023
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of this amazing book thanks to winning it in one of Deborah's generous monthly give-aways. It is a beautiful coming of age tale of Robyn who's 15 years old and every time she gets settled and happy something comes along to destroy that.
She has no permanent place to call home and often is let down by those who should love and protect her. She loves music and fashion and idolises John Lennon. With the help of a few kind souls she manages to survive thanks to trusting few and relying on her own savvy mind and trusting her intuition. I fell in love with Robyn and all the characters in the book who helped her. Deborah truelly thinks out her characters personalities and motivations so much that you really felt like you knew her.
A really inspiring novel about never giving up, even when you feel like all is lost find something to drive and motivate yourself like she did when looking for her long lost father as you never know what might happen if you don't try. My favourite read this year, it's nostalgic and like a warm hug.
She has no permanent place to call home and often is let down by those who should love and protect her. She loves music and fashion and idolises John Lennon. With the help of a few kind souls she manages to survive thanks to trusting few and relying on her own savvy mind and trusting her intuition. I fell in love with Robyn and all the characters in the book who helped her. Deborah truelly thinks out her characters personalities and motivations so much that you really felt like you knew her.
A really inspiring novel about never giving up, even when you feel like all is lost find something to drive and motivate yourself like she did when looking for her long lost father as you never know what might happen if you don't try. My favourite read this year, it's nostalgic and like a warm hug.
March 19, 2024
Wow, this was a brilliant snapshot of early 80s Britain, especially Liverpool, where sixteen-year-old Robyn works in a bakery.
I liked the first-person narrative because it provided an in-depth look into Robyn's thoughts and feelings. It was certainly an emotional read. The story highlighted the vulnerability of those with no money or support system. It was about ordinary people fighting to survive while attempting to find security and happiness.
The writing style was superb, its imagery defined those thoughts and feelings. It's been a while since I've read book one and I am so glad to find book two.
Being homeless must be terrifying and have nearly been in that position and Robyn's predicament was portrayed extremely well.
Down to earth, relatable and believable.
Highly recommended.
I liked the first-person narrative because it provided an in-depth look into Robyn's thoughts and feelings. It was certainly an emotional read. The story highlighted the vulnerability of those with no money or support system. It was about ordinary people fighting to survive while attempting to find security and happiness.
The writing style was superb, its imagery defined those thoughts and feelings. It's been a while since I've read book one and I am so glad to find book two.
Being homeless must be terrifying and have nearly been in that position and Robyn's predicament was portrayed extremely well.
Down to earth, relatable and believable.
Highly recommended.
March 4, 2024
Robyn is now sixteen-years-old and living with her Nan in Liverpool, as her mum now lives in Edinburgh with her boyfriend. When her Nan dies, Robyn ends up homeless and struggles.
We follow Robyn as she manages to get herself a job, starts having nights out with her friend, Rose & even considers a lad called Alex being her boyfriend.
I enjoyed this second book and getting to know Robyn as she’s older. Robyn hasn’t had an easy life, and it certainly doesn’t get easier as she tries to keep her job and a roof over her head.
I liked Robyn’s friend, Claudia, she was like a mother figure to Robyn and helped her a lot. All Robyn has ever wanted is to finally meet her Dad, will this finally happen for her?
We follow Robyn as she manages to get herself a job, starts having nights out with her friend, Rose & even considers a lad called Alex being her boyfriend.
I enjoyed this second book and getting to know Robyn as she’s older. Robyn hasn’t had an easy life, and it certainly doesn’t get easier as she tries to keep her job and a roof over her head.
I liked Robyn’s friend, Claudia, she was like a mother figure to Robyn and helped her a lot. All Robyn has ever wanted is to finally meet her Dad, will this finally happen for her?
October 29, 2023
This book is what I call a slice of life. Its about Robyn Naylor who is 16, lives in Liverpool with her much loved Nan May. Her mother is feckless and has gone to live in Edinburgh with her latest boyfriend and left Robyn behind. She doesn't know her father or much about him. Robyn becomes homeless through no fault of her own and has a hard time when the realities of life on the street catch up with her. This story takes Robyn on a journey learning about life, she meets wonderful people and totally awful people. They all make up lifes rich tapestry. A beautiful coming of age book. Set in the years when I first got married, made it seem all the more real.
April 25, 2023
This is book two in the Disappearing Home Series and I feel now I want to read book one. After reading this book I really like Deborah's style of writing and I found it well descriptive. This is Robyn's story and is set around the 80's era which I love reading about. I found Robyn's story full of emotion and turmoil and I just wanted to help Robyn. There were some really great characters throughout the story and I really loved reading about the 80's era, Deborah has done a great job with this book. I read it in a day and would recommend.
July 15, 2023
I really enjoyed this emotional read, set in the 1980's and although it is book 2 in a series, it stands alone on merit. I liked the writing style and the characterisation, especially Robyn the lead character, although the other characters were interesting to say the least! The book tackles grief, loss and growing up in the 80's era, it's written with great sensitivity and a depth of understanding which I am sure will be relatable to many. I read it in one day, whilst sitting on a beach in the Outer Hebrides in perfect weather, looking over the Atlantic Ocean and I loved it!
May 31, 2023
I haven't read the first book and although this book stands alone perfectly well, I will definitely be reading Disappearing Home after reading this. I adored Deborah's style of writing, it made reading the book totally effortless and wholly fulfilling.
It focuses on Robyn, who lives with her Nan until her Nan passes away, cutting her adrift with no place to call her own and nobody to call her family. As she tries to moor herself she crosses paths with an array of people, from the very good to the truly awful. There were so many times when my heart was in my mouth as I imagined the terrible things that may be about to happen - sometimes they did, and other times my faith was restored as I was reminded that people can be so giving with no expectation of anything in return.
Robyn is a normal girl on the surface, but she has incredible resilience and a quiet determination that is impressive to witness. Her unfaltering belief that, in the end, everything will work out just as it's supposed to so long as she sticks to her principles is written so credibly that I had no doubt in it being so. I hope I get to read more about where life takes her.
This may be a book about grief, loss of family, and predatory people but it's also a book of great hope.
It focuses on Robyn, who lives with her Nan until her Nan passes away, cutting her adrift with no place to call her own and nobody to call her family. As she tries to moor herself she crosses paths with an array of people, from the very good to the truly awful. There were so many times when my heart was in my mouth as I imagined the terrible things that may be about to happen - sometimes they did, and other times my faith was restored as I was reminded that people can be so giving with no expectation of anything in return.
Robyn is a normal girl on the surface, but she has incredible resilience and a quiet determination that is impressive to witness. Her unfaltering belief that, in the end, everything will work out just as it's supposed to so long as she sticks to her principles is written so credibly that I had no doubt in it being so. I hope I get to read more about where life takes her.
This may be a book about grief, loss of family, and predatory people but it's also a book of great hope.
May 29, 2023
I adored this, felt for Robyn so much from the off and the love for her only got deeper.
This tackles grief in such a realistic way, and made it so relatable. I also felt immersed in the 80s with other themes in the book.
I have to admit that I've not read the first, but certainly plan to.
Emotional, thought provoking, very well written. The author gets to the heart and soul of her characters.
This tackles grief in such a realistic way, and made it so relatable. I also felt immersed in the 80s with other themes in the book.
I have to admit that I've not read the first, but certainly plan to.
Emotional, thought provoking, very well written. The author gets to the heart and soul of her characters.
February 26, 2023
Fantastic read
This is the sequel to Disappearing Home, and tells Robyn’s story. So many amazing characters and great descriptions of the eighties era. I read this book from start to finish in a day, that’s how brilliant it is. Don’t take my word for it though - bag yourself a fantastic read and if you can afford it, buy the first book, Disappearing Home and this one (Imagine Living) and read them both in order. I really don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
This is the sequel to Disappearing Home, and tells Robyn’s story. So many amazing characters and great descriptions of the eighties era. I read this book from start to finish in a day, that’s how brilliant it is. Don’t take my word for it though - bag yourself a fantastic read and if you can afford it, buy the first book, Disappearing Home and this one (Imagine Living) and read them both in order. I really don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
July 28, 2023
A very well written book.
The story line was great it had you, hooked in very early on. I actually didn't want the book too end. If there is a follow up that would be great. I look forward too reading whatever it is that you next. I shall look out for it with fingers crossed that it's not a long wait .
The story line was great it had you, hooked in very early on. I actually didn't want the book too end. If there is a follow up that would be great. I look forward too reading whatever it is that you next. I shall look out for it with fingers crossed that it's not a long wait .
September 23, 2023
This is the first book I have read from Deborah Morgan. I won it in a giveaway on Facebook. A well written book, that kept me engrossed from the first page. I loved the characters that Robyn meet along her journey of life, some of them wonderful characters that anyone would love! Others that were just plain nasty and not nice people! For everything she had to endure, Robyn never gave up hope!
July 6, 2024
Based in the 80s in Liverpool. The 80s is my era & lots hit the spot reading this.
Robyn is 16 and poor soul is on her own and learning to live.
She is made of strong stuff and I think the 80s did that for us. A whole different world.
This is book 2 and book 1 was excellent as well.
Really well written and enough to get lost in the story of her life and growing up
Robyn is 16 and poor soul is on her own and learning to live.
She is made of strong stuff and I think the 80s did that for us. A whole different world.
This is book 2 and book 1 was excellent as well.
Really well written and enough to get lost in the story of her life and growing up
February 28, 2023
I love Robyn. I just want to hug her and tell her all will be fine and not everyone is bad. She does a fine job of sorting that out herself through her hard work and determination. Hopefully, we will learn more about Robyn as she moves into adulthood ❤️
March 8, 2023
I loved Disappearing Home & was anxious to read more about Robyn’s life. I felt sad for so many bad things she’s had to go through & happy when something good was there. So often the bad would come again. Made me wish I could give her a home. I didn’t want to put it down. ❤️
April 10, 2023
Brilliant
I read this until 3:00am. I couldn’t stop until I’d finished. I read book 1 ages ago, but found book 2 yesterday. Brilliantly written, great story. Is there a book 3? I hope so
I read this until 3:00am. I couldn’t stop until I’d finished. I read book 1 ages ago, but found book 2 yesterday. Brilliantly written, great story. Is there a book 3? I hope so
July 24, 2023
This book felt so real to me! I felt I needed to reach out and touch Robyn. It's about despair, disappointment, hurt, strength, hope, kindness and so many other emotions. A story that I'll remember.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
July 7, 2023
A beautifully written book about the ups and downs of life. Full of emotion. Absolutely loved it.
August 24, 2025
It's a heartwrenching story about the complexities of family, abandonment, homelessness, and being a teenage girl. But for the grace of God...
October 27, 2025
Believable
This is an easy read. So true to how life was back in the 60/70s. The hard times, the good times.
I would certainly recommend it
This is an easy read. So true to how life was back in the 60/70s. The hard times, the good times.
I would certainly recommend it
March 28, 2024
3.5 star ⭐️
Title: Imagine Living
Author: Deborah Morgan
It is in 1980’s Liverpool that we meet 16-year-old Robyn. She lives with her Nan, works in a government apprentice programme in the local bakery and is learning how to navigate life, love, and friendships.
Her Nan suddenly dies and Robyn refuses to go and live with her Mum and her partner in Edinburgh due to a long history of what sounds like neglect and abuse.
Alone in the world at 16 years of age, Robyn’s fights to follow her Nan’s advice of ‘imaging living your best life’. As Robyn navigates to do this, she meets all manner of people. Some are genuinely kind; some have hidden agendas, and some are downright nasty and scary. Through all of this, Robyn holds out hope that she will eventually find her father.
I enjoyed this book. It is simply written, peppered with gentle humour and although sad at times, it is also a book about resilience and hope.
I work with vulnerable teenagers, and I could identify the strength of Robyn having had such a secure base in her Nan. I loved the glimpses into 1980’s Liverpool and some of the background influences were reassuringly familiar. The characters were a mixed group with traits that ranged from lovable and abhorrent.
Although I was rooting for Robyn, I felt at times that her emotional world was not fully fleshed out and that left me with a sense of wanting more from the story. This may be because at 16, Robyn does not have the emotional language for her experience and as she is busy surviving on a day-to-day basis, her emotional responses may be further down the line when she has a safe place to call home.
This is book 2 of Robyn’s story and although it can easily be read as a standalone, I do wonder if there would have been benefit in knowing Robyn’s earlier story.
Thank you @deborahmorgan for a signed copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Title: Imagine Living
Author: Deborah Morgan
It is in 1980’s Liverpool that we meet 16-year-old Robyn. She lives with her Nan, works in a government apprentice programme in the local bakery and is learning how to navigate life, love, and friendships.
Her Nan suddenly dies and Robyn refuses to go and live with her Mum and her partner in Edinburgh due to a long history of what sounds like neglect and abuse.
Alone in the world at 16 years of age, Robyn’s fights to follow her Nan’s advice of ‘imaging living your best life’. As Robyn navigates to do this, she meets all manner of people. Some are genuinely kind; some have hidden agendas, and some are downright nasty and scary. Through all of this, Robyn holds out hope that she will eventually find her father.
I enjoyed this book. It is simply written, peppered with gentle humour and although sad at times, it is also a book about resilience and hope.
I work with vulnerable teenagers, and I could identify the strength of Robyn having had such a secure base in her Nan. I loved the glimpses into 1980’s Liverpool and some of the background influences were reassuringly familiar. The characters were a mixed group with traits that ranged from lovable and abhorrent.
Although I was rooting for Robyn, I felt at times that her emotional world was not fully fleshed out and that left me with a sense of wanting more from the story. This may be because at 16, Robyn does not have the emotional language for her experience and as she is busy surviving on a day-to-day basis, her emotional responses may be further down the line when she has a safe place to call home.
This is book 2 of Robyn’s story and although it can easily be read as a standalone, I do wonder if there would have been benefit in knowing Robyn’s earlier story.
Thank you @deborahmorgan for a signed copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2024
Imagine Living by Deborah Morgan is book 2 in the Disappearing Home series but can be read as a stand-alone book. It is based in 1980 and I really enjoyed reading about the people in this period and felt Deborah Morgan captured the vibrant essence of the 1980’s seamlessly weaving a narrative that immersed me in the cultural tapestry of the era. With meticulous attention to detail, bringing the streets, people and period to life evoking a sense of nostalgia and authenticity that transported me back to the atmosphere of the 1980’s. The book had humour and wit, but periods of fear and hope all of which made me love the main protagonist Robyn more and more. The relationship between Robyn and her Nan was heartwarming and testament to the enduring power and love of family portrayed with authenticity, in the period enriching the narrative.
I laughed at the wit and humour of the time and cried at the loss and despair as if I was taking every step with Robyn. She was resilient and vulnerable all at the same time.
In conclusion, the book is about love, loss and trying to find your way along with family, friends and foes. A great read that had lost of emotion and a cultural tapestry of the 1980’s that I recommend if you love books about family, friends, and the past.
I laughed at the wit and humour of the time and cried at the loss and despair as if I was taking every step with Robyn. She was resilient and vulnerable all at the same time.
In conclusion, the book is about love, loss and trying to find your way along with family, friends and foes. A great read that had lost of emotion and a cultural tapestry of the 1980’s that I recommend if you love books about family, friends, and the past.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews