Not Without Tears

by E. M. Holmes

A behind the headlines story of the results of teenage alcohol and drug use. Not Without Anna is a primer of the facts of life about teenagers in today's world and not an easy read for parents who "Not my child!"

Hardcover

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Readers Choice · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Not Without Anna” by Vicki M. Taylor is a compelling and emotional read. The story follows seventeen-year-old Anna Jane Marshall, who recently graduated from Bridgeway High School but tragically lost her life in a suspected drowning accident. The incident occurred during an unauthorized, impromptu graduation party held at a nearby apartment complex.

Police are now questioning teens who attended the gathering. Anna's boyfriend Mike desperately tried CPR, but his efforts were in vain. Sgt. Robles interrogates Paul Roman, a man who works for courier service and made delivery to the party at which Anna died, while Detective Murphy prepares to question Mike, Anna's grieving boyfriend.

As the investigation unfolds, the close-knit community comes together in the wake of Anna’s death. Readers who enjoy heartfelt stories set in small towns will find this novel particularly engaging.

The author does a great job bringing the characters to life. The cover is eye-catching, and the title fits the story well. With its fast-paced narrative, this book is hard to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

[Progress Wings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read!

“Not Without Anna” is a gripping and emotional story that delves into the profound impact of tragedy on a close-knit Florida town. The book opens with the death of a teenager under mysterious circumstances, followed by the devastating suicide of another teen held responsible. These heart-wrenching events serve as a catalyst for transformation within the community, sparking both individual and collective introspection.
What makes this book so powerful is its raw portrayal of grief, guilt, and redemption. The author masterfully captures the ripple effects of tragedy, showing how it shatters families, shakes friendships, and challenges long-held beliefs. Yet, amidst the despair, the story also highlights resilience and the power of human connection.
One of the most striking aspects of this book is how it emphasizes the importance of communal responsibility. As the town confronts its failings, it becomes a model of what can happen when a community chooses to unite rather than fracture. The families and residents channel their grief into action, addressing systemic issues and creating a more supportive environment for their children.

[Maven Reads]

Katherine is a widow tasked with juggling single parenthood and her career as a therapist. Charles, known to his friends as Charlie, is a columnist and also a single parent to a teenager, Mike. Unlike Katherine, he is a divorcee with his home broken by strange circumstances. Mike is a normal teenager. At least, that's what everyone thought, unbeknownst to the fact that he is plagued by the vices that plague most young people—drugs and alcohol.

Their lives are even more intertwined because of the death of Anna-Katherine's daughter and Mike's girlfriend, who was found dead due to drowning while swimming under the influence of drugs. The same tragedy for them all, but their approach towards it is what made the difference.
Not without Anna is an exceptional book. From the beautiful progression of the story, including a prologue and an epilogue, to the wonderful way in which it was described, this book is nothing short of perfection.

How can I forget how much of a lesson it impacted me with... How wonderful is it to learn and have fun at the same time? It takes a great writer to make a reader experience so many emotions while reading a book, and Vicki did that. I was angry, sad, and emotional at different points while reading this book. I enjoyed the different points of view employed. It gave me a sort of omniscient feeling.

Overall, it was a wonderful read. I'd rate it 5 out of 5 because it is both educative and entertaining. I recommend this book particularly to anyone who has experienced any kind of tragedy; Katherine’s approach of finding purpose in tragedy will inspire you. Also, for every teenager, this is a should-read for you so you’ll learn and abstain from danger. Lastly, to anyone having a drug addiction or mental health crisis, this one is for you.

[Loveth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Without Anna is a compelling and emotional read that tackles the difficult topics of grief, accountability, and suicide. Taylor does a remarkable job of portraying the devastation that follows the loss of young lives while also showing the strength of a town determined to heal. The novel is both tragic and inspiring, offering readers a realistic portrayal of how people cope with loss and turn it into something meaningful. With well drawn characters and an emotionally rich narrative, this book is one you won’t forget.

[Dorian · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Anna’s tragic death and the aftermath is gripping and thought provoking. Vicki M. Taylor weaves a tale that challenges readers to think about their own communities and the impact of loss on young lives. Though some parts felt a bit drawn out, the emotional depth made up for it. A powerful read.

[Natalie Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Few books hit as hard as Not Without Anna. It explores grief, responsibility, and how tragedy can either break a town or bring people together. The writing is raw and real, and it made me reflect on the importance of community in preventing such heartbreaking events. This story will stay with me for a long time.

[Raymond · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is more than just a story, it's an emotional journey. The tragedy that strikes this small Florida town feels so real, and the way the community comes together in the aftermath is deeply moving. It’s a reminder of how important it is to support and protect young people. A beautifully written and powerful read!

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some books entertain, but others make you think and feel—this is one of those books. The way Not Without Anna deals with grief, responsibility, and community action is both heartbreaking and inspiring. It’s a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of people coming together to make a difference.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this felt like looking into a real town’s heartbreak. The loss, the guilt, the unanswered questions; it’s all so well written. But what stood out was the way the community came together. It’s a story of loss, yes, but also of resilience, healing, and the power of people uniting for a greater good.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book doesn’t shy away from tough issues, and that’s what makes it so compelling. The emotions are raw, the grief is real, and the way the town fights for change is inspiring. It’s both a cautionary tale and a message of hope. A truly unforgettable read!

[Dreamer80 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Losing a daughter is something that will kill any parent but finding out that your baby girl was killed, it sticks you in a living nightmare.
This book was really strong and let us see an aspect very important of the relationships between friends, parents and their kids, people outside the family always ready to judge the others.
Secrets will be exposed all over town and lives will change for the better (from one side) and for the worse (from the other).
I don't want to spoil this really good book so...now I'm going to seal my lips but, you should give it a chance.