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Losing Francesca
WARNING: This book contains no smut. It’s not smexy or hot. It’s sweet and filled with a longing so deep, your heart will ache and maybe even break. This book is about bare feet on the beach, the sound of crashing waves, first kisses, losing your faith and then, against all odds, finding it again. This book is about bad things that change people’s lives, a father’s love for his daughter, a brother’s love for his sister, a bad boy who finally figures out why he’s so broken, and a girl who grows up.
Francesca Sabatini came to America to take in the sights, celebrate her high school graduation, and have fun wasting time before college starts in the fall.
That's not what happens.
Fresh off the plane and barely on American soil more than a handful of minutes, Francesca's face is recognized by TSA scanners to be a match for a child who was kidnapped twelve years ago.
Brody Mason remembers the day Fiona Sullivan went missing during a family vacation in Italy and it's haunted him his whole life. So when Francesca shows up at the Sullivan farm down the road, he's compelled to figure out if this girl really is his long-lost friend.
But Francesca knows she's not Fiona Sullivan. She knows exactly who she is. At least she thinks she knows – until Brody Mason relentlessly pursues her and she begins to have feelings for him. Maybe being Fiona isn't so bad?
Reality becomes blurred, secrets are revealed, and life will never be the same when the final questions are answered: Is she Francesca or Fiona? And where does she really belong?
Francesca Sabatini came to America to take in the sights, celebrate her high school graduation, and have fun wasting time before college starts in the fall.
That's not what happens.
Fresh off the plane and barely on American soil more than a handful of minutes, Francesca's face is recognized by TSA scanners to be a match for a child who was kidnapped twelve years ago.
Brody Mason remembers the day Fiona Sullivan went missing during a family vacation in Italy and it's haunted him his whole life. So when Francesca shows up at the Sullivan farm down the road, he's compelled to figure out if this girl really is his long-lost friend.
But Francesca knows she's not Fiona Sullivan. She knows exactly who she is. At least she thinks she knows – until Brody Mason relentlessly pursues her and she begins to have feelings for him. Maybe being Fiona isn't so bad?
Reality becomes blurred, secrets are revealed, and life will never be the same when the final questions are answered: Is she Francesca or Fiona? And where does she really belong?
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2013
25 people are currently reading
1990 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Huss
135 books9,042 followersJ.A. Huss never wanted to be a writer and she still dreams of that elusive career as an astronaut. She originally went to school to become an equine veterinarian but soon figured out they keep horrible hours and decided to go to grad school instead. That Ph.D wasn’t all it was cracked up to be (and she really sucked at the whole scientist thing), so she dropped out and got a M.S. in forensic toxicology just to get the whole thing over with as soon as possible.
After graduation she got a job with the state of Colorado as their one and only hog farm inspector and spent her days wandering the Eastern Plains shooting the shit with farmers. After a few years of that, she got bored. And since she was a homeschool mom and actually does love science, she decided to write science textbooks and make online classes for other homeschool moms. She wrote more than two hundred of those workbooks and was the number one publisher at the online homeschool store many times, but eventually she covered every science topic she could think of and ran out of shit to say.
So in 2012 she decided to write fiction instead. That year she released her first three books and started a career that would make her a New York Times bestseller and land her on the USA Today Bestseller’s List eighteen times in the next three years. Her books have sold millions of copies all over the world, the audio version of her semi-autobiographical book, Eighteen, was nominated for a Voice Arts Award and an Audie award in 2016 and 2017 respectively, her audiobook Mr. Perfect was nominated for a Voice Arts Award in 2017, and her book, Taking Turns, was nominated for an Audie Award in 2018. Johnathan McClain is her first (and only) writing partner and even though they are worlds apart in just about every way imaginable, it works.
She lives on a ranch in Central Colorado with her family.
After graduation she got a job with the state of Colorado as their one and only hog farm inspector and spent her days wandering the Eastern Plains shooting the shit with farmers. After a few years of that, she got bored. And since she was a homeschool mom and actually does love science, she decided to write science textbooks and make online classes for other homeschool moms. She wrote more than two hundred of those workbooks and was the number one publisher at the online homeschool store many times, but eventually she covered every science topic she could think of and ran out of shit to say.
So in 2012 she decided to write fiction instead. That year she released her first three books and started a career that would make her a New York Times bestseller and land her on the USA Today Bestseller’s List eighteen times in the next three years. Her books have sold millions of copies all over the world, the audio version of her semi-autobiographical book, Eighteen, was nominated for a Voice Arts Award and an Audie award in 2016 and 2017 respectively, her audiobook Mr. Perfect was nominated for a Voice Arts Award in 2017, and her book, Taking Turns, was nominated for an Audie Award in 2018. Johnathan McClain is her first (and only) writing partner and even though they are worlds apart in just about every way imaginable, it works.
She lives on a ranch in Central Colorado with her family.
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February 6, 2015
4 stars!
This book has been sitting on my kindle unread for way too long. I’m glad I finally made time to read it. I loved the characters, the mystery and the original storyline.
This is a story about a girl named Francesca. Or is it Fiona? I will just call her ‘Fee’. Fee is at an American airport, ready to start her new life. She’s ready for college. She never imagined she would be held by the government. They say their facial recognition software says she is someone else. That she is not Francesca Sabatini, but Fiona Sullivan. Fiona was a little girl who went missing/ was abducted 12 years ago from a family vacation in Italy. Fee is now being sent to the Sullivan’s. At least until she turns 18- a mere 7 weeks away.
Brody Mason is neighbors with the Sullivan’s. Twelve years ago, Brody Mason lost his best friend. The girl, who at even such a young age, he loved. He’s never completely gotten over that loss. So to know that Fee is back with the Sullivan’s, he’s floored. He has to see her, to be near her. Brody is drawn to Fee, and to be quite honest, she’s drawn to him as well. Being with Fee again, for however long, is a dream come true for him.
Brody is the town bad boy, but with Fee, he is so different. He is sweet, swoony, and understanding. I adored him. Fee is one of those heroines who is easy to love. I felt for her. Being put into a situation like this has to be extremely difficult. Torn between keeping secrets, and trying to figure out the truth herself is hard. And things with Brody get even more complicated as her feelings start to grow.
Like any Huss novel, there was that element of uniqueness and a few twists and turns that you never saw coming in the beginning. I really enjoyed reading about Fee and Brody, watching their relationship grow/rekindle. I was left guessing throughout the story about who Fee really was and how she got in the position she was in. I loved all of Fee’s relationships- not just the one with Brody, but the one she developed with Sean and Frank too. And the feet pictures. I absolutely loved those! I want to start doing that on my vacations!
If you’re looking for a great story that is more coming of age YA/NA, this would be one I would recommend. It’s always great to read something different and full of surprises. Unlike Huss’s other books, it’s not very steamy (just a heads up) but that in no way took away from my enjoyment of the story. It was actually a nice change from what I’ve been reading. Losing Francesca gets a solid 4 stars from me!
This book has been sitting on my kindle unread for way too long. I’m glad I finally made time to read it. I loved the characters, the mystery and the original storyline.
This is a story about a girl named Francesca. Or is it Fiona? I will just call her ‘Fee’. Fee is at an American airport, ready to start her new life. She’s ready for college. She never imagined she would be held by the government. They say their facial recognition software says she is someone else. That she is not Francesca Sabatini, but Fiona Sullivan. Fiona was a little girl who went missing/ was abducted 12 years ago from a family vacation in Italy. Fee is now being sent to the Sullivan’s. At least until she turns 18- a mere 7 weeks away.
Brody Mason is neighbors with the Sullivan’s. Twelve years ago, Brody Mason lost his best friend. The girl, who at even such a young age, he loved. He’s never completely gotten over that loss. So to know that Fee is back with the Sullivan’s, he’s floored. He has to see her, to be near her. Brody is drawn to Fee, and to be quite honest, she’s drawn to him as well. Being with Fee again, for however long, is a dream come true for him.
It doesn’t matter though. I’m in. Even if it’s only five more minutes, five minutes with my Fee is better than nothing. It’s a dream fulfilled compared to where I was a few days ago.
Brody is the town bad boy, but with Fee, he is so different. He is sweet, swoony, and understanding. I adored him. Fee is one of those heroines who is easy to love. I felt for her. Being put into a situation like this has to be extremely difficult. Torn between keeping secrets, and trying to figure out the truth herself is hard. And things with Brody get even more complicated as her feelings start to grow.
Like any Huss novel, there was that element of uniqueness and a few twists and turns that you never saw coming in the beginning. I really enjoyed reading about Fee and Brody, watching their relationship grow/rekindle. I was left guessing throughout the story about who Fee really was and how she got in the position she was in. I loved all of Fee’s relationships- not just the one with Brody, but the one she developed with Sean and Frank too. And the feet pictures. I absolutely loved those! I want to start doing that on my vacations!
If you’re looking for a great story that is more coming of age YA/NA, this would be one I would recommend. It’s always great to read something different and full of surprises. Unlike Huss’s other books, it’s not very steamy (just a heads up) but that in no way took away from my enjoyment of the story. It was actually a nice change from what I’ve been reading. Losing Francesca gets a solid 4 stars from me!
February 10, 2015
Losing Francesca is a unique story about a girl who enters the United States on vacation only to learn she matches the identity of a missing person, Fiona Sullivan. I wasn’t sure what to think when I started this one, but I was very intrigued on so many levels.
First we know that Francesca is hiding something, she is so cryptic in her conversations and even her inner dialogue. Regardless of whether or not she is the missing girl she is sent to live with the Sullivan family. The Sullivan’s are a wonderful mixed family. The family is made up of adopted children and the home/family in itself is beautiful. So when Francesca begins living there they are so excited to have her and welcome her with open arms, despite the fact that most never met the missing Fiona.
Brody Mason never forget his first love and friend. Brody and Fiona grew up together and he always considered her his girl. The second he finds out she might be back he wants to meet Francesca.
Francesca and Brody begin to develop a friendship, which blossoms into more. I loved the connection between Francesca and Brody, and it was completely independent of whether I believed Francesca’s story. I just loved their connection. The whole time you are reading you are guessing and hoping for different outcomes.
I wasn’t sure how things would play out and while I never lost sight of the mystery or suspense part of the story, I did begin to focus more on Francesca’s growth. Regardless of where Francesca came from or who she is, we do learn a lot about the person she is. We learn that Francesca has lived a sheltered life and was never really allowed to think for herself or act on her wishes. Watching Francesca grow into her own person and discover what she wants out of life really brought the story together for me.
It is hard to say what I loved most about this story, but I will say I loved Brody Mason. He was the perfect male. He was adventurous and fun, but also protective and sexy. In the beginning he just wanted his Fiona back, but towards the end he was able to see Francesca for who she was.
I really enjoyed this story and recommend it. I will never know how Julie can write such crazy stories with twists and turns have everything come together perfectly. It is absolutely crazy to me, but I love it! I highly recommend this beautiful story!
"I guess everybody does. Like the idea of going home, that is.”
First we know that Francesca is hiding something, she is so cryptic in her conversations and even her inner dialogue. Regardless of whether or not she is the missing girl she is sent to live with the Sullivan family. The Sullivan’s are a wonderful mixed family. The family is made up of adopted children and the home/family in itself is beautiful. So when Francesca begins living there they are so excited to have her and welcome her with open arms, despite the fact that most never met the missing Fiona.
Brody Mason never forget his first love and friend. Brody and Fiona grew up together and he always considered her his girl. The second he finds out she might be back he wants to meet Francesca.
Francesca and Brody begin to develop a friendship, which blossoms into more. I loved the connection between Francesca and Brody, and it was completely independent of whether I believed Francesca’s story. I just loved their connection. The whole time you are reading you are guessing and hoping for different outcomes.
I wasn’t sure how things would play out and while I never lost sight of the mystery or suspense part of the story, I did begin to focus more on Francesca’s growth. Regardless of where Francesca came from or who she is, we do learn a lot about the person she is. We learn that Francesca has lived a sheltered life and was never really allowed to think for herself or act on her wishes. Watching Francesca grow into her own person and discover what she wants out of life really brought the story together for me.
It is hard to say what I loved most about this story, but I will say I loved Brody Mason. He was the perfect male. He was adventurous and fun, but also protective and sexy. In the beginning he just wanted his Fiona back, but towards the end he was able to see Francesca for who she was.
I really enjoyed this story and recommend it. I will never know how Julie can write such crazy stories with twists and turns have everything come together perfectly. It is absolutely crazy to me, but I love it! I highly recommend this beautiful story!
"I guess everybody does. Like the idea of going home, that is.”
July 1, 2013
A laughably bad novel, with simplistic, amateurish writing and cartoonish characterizations. Everything is told, not shown. The author has a few books under her belt so I wasn't expecting anything this dire.
The story is as believable as the Hero's declarations of love. Examples:
Page 34 - Because Fiona Sullivan is my soulmate. I knew it from the first time we played together. . . . . I remember looking at her when she was four years old and I was six, thinking to myself, I love that girl. That is the girl I will marry.
Page 121 - He's smiling. "I have loved you since I was four years old. Fiona, I have loved you since you were a baby. I knew—" He stops and the unsaid words almost drag me down from the hurricane that has lifted me up and away from the real world.
"Knew what?" I push, urgently.
"That you were my soulmate."
Did y'all get that? First he says that he realized she was his "soulmate" when he was 6 and she was 4. Then later in the novel, he says that he knew when he was 4 and SHE was 2. What's next? He knew when he was still in the womb and she was just sperm waiting to be hatched?
The story is as believable as the Hero's declarations of love. Examples:
Page 34 - Because Fiona Sullivan is my soulmate. I knew it from the first time we played together. . . . . I remember looking at her when she was four years old and I was six, thinking to myself, I love that girl. That is the girl I will marry.
Page 121 - He's smiling. "I have loved you since I was four years old. Fiona, I have loved you since you were a baby. I knew—" He stops and the unsaid words almost drag me down from the hurricane that has lifted me up and away from the real world.
"Knew what?" I push, urgently.
"That you were my soulmate."
Did y'all get that? First he says that he realized she was his "soulmate" when he was 6 and she was 4. Then later in the novel, he says that he knew when he was 4 and SHE was 2. What's next? He knew when he was still in the womb and she was just sperm waiting to be hatched?
July 2, 2013
AMAZING!! This one ranks right up there with Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay. There was so much mystery and emotion and Brody is just...well, right now I have no words.
After reading Tragic by J.A. Huss I checked out her website and read about this book and set my calendar for the release date. I am so glad I did. I have to say, Huss is quickly becoming a favorite author!
One last thing...I am all about steam in a romance novel, but I love that Huss was able to invoke steam with just a first kiss and nothing more. She allowed the story to be beautiful and poignant all on it's own.
Just Amazing!!
After reading Tragic by J.A. Huss I checked out her website and read about this book and set my calendar for the release date. I am so glad I did. I have to say, Huss is quickly becoming a favorite author!
One last thing...I am all about steam in a romance novel, but I love that Huss was able to invoke steam with just a first kiss and nothing more. She allowed the story to be beautiful and poignant all on it's own.
Just Amazing!!
November 26, 2014
Being detained and questioned wasn’t what Francesca expected when she arrived in America. Sure the passport she was using was a fake, along with the others hidden away in her luggage; but that was normal. It’s how she was raised, how her father had kept her safe. Except for now. When she learns that she matches the description of a girl that went missing twelve years ago she is forced to be reunited with the family that claims she is their Fiona. But it isn’t until she meets a man that was so broken by the loss of that little girl that she desperately wants to be Fiona. The only problem is that Francesca doesn’t quite know who she really is.
I put this one off for a really long time. Not sure why. It could be that young adult is a genre that I find works bests when I pace myself. The sweet needs to be inserted in between the filthy dirty stuff so that I can appreciate it more. And although this was a very sweet read that was filled with sugary moments rather than steamy ones, it had that trademark JA Huss twistiness to it. It didn’t take long to get lost in this story and to start coming up with my own ideas as to how Francesca and Fiona’s lives were entwined.
And Brody. Swoon. Bad-boy that was so broken over the loss of a little girl that and then by his parent’s death. He was perfect. This was a mix between a little bit of suspense and romance and JA did an amazing job creating characters that you instantly loved.
This book just proves that JA can write pretty much anything. I love her darker reads where the bad-boy can take a life in one breath and then whisper words of love in another. That stark difference in her heroes is much different than the boy she gives you with Brody, but all that sweet you love in her dark heroes; well that is Brody.
If you are looking for an enjoyable young adult romance that packs a little more punch with the story this is a great one to pick up. There is no sex, so don’t expect any sexy-time; but this book gives you the butterflies of a new love that is packaged in the longing of a lost soul mate.
I put this one off for a really long time. Not sure why. It could be that young adult is a genre that I find works bests when I pace myself. The sweet needs to be inserted in between the filthy dirty stuff so that I can appreciate it more. And although this was a very sweet read that was filled with sugary moments rather than steamy ones, it had that trademark JA Huss twistiness to it. It didn’t take long to get lost in this story and to start coming up with my own ideas as to how Francesca and Fiona’s lives were entwined.
And Brody. Swoon. Bad-boy that was so broken over the loss of a little girl that and then by his parent’s death. He was perfect. This was a mix between a little bit of suspense and romance and JA did an amazing job creating characters that you instantly loved.
This book just proves that JA can write pretty much anything. I love her darker reads where the bad-boy can take a life in one breath and then whisper words of love in another. That stark difference in her heroes is much different than the boy she gives you with Brody, but all that sweet you love in her dark heroes; well that is Brody.
If you are looking for an enjoyable young adult romance that packs a little more punch with the story this is a great one to pick up. There is no sex, so don’t expect any sexy-time; but this book gives you the butterflies of a new love that is packaged in the longing of a lost soul mate.
July 6, 2018
I just re-read this book 5 years after I first read it. It is still a fantastic and wonderful read with a realistic and deep story. The book is told through dual points of view of Fiona/Francesca and Brody Mason.
Francesca Sabatini (or at least that was one of the names of the many IDs she had on her) came to the USA after her 18th birthday and to celebrate her high school graduation. Her face is recognized by TSA scanners and they match her to a child Fiona Sullivan who went missing for the past 12 years during a trip in Italy. The FBI take her into custody and they force her to go live with the Sullivan family until Fiona Sullivan's 18th birthday.
Francesca/Fiona's life has been anything except normal. Most of her life, she's had many different names, she speaks many languages, and she's been all over the world. She's been to school all over the world and never lasts very long in those places due to her safety. She doesn't understand why everyone thinks she's Fiona Sullivan and being forced to live with this family she doesn't know. At first when she gets to the Sullivan Farm, she refuses to speak English and will only speak Italian to them. But she starts to get to know the family and Brody and she wishes she was Fiona Sullivan.
Brody has always lived next door to the Sullivan's home. Twelve years ago when Fiona disappeared, his life changed drastically. They were very young and he was a couple of years older but Brody knew Fiona was his soulmate and the only one for him. So when she went missing and was possibly dead, it just broke him a little and made him angry and he started acting out. He got into fights a lot and trouble and he was somewhat a player. He's had a pretty tragic life because first he lost Fiona and then when he was 15 years old his parents were killed. Brody has an older brother Renn and two younger brothers. Luckily the court let the brothers stay together and he had to grow up pretty fast to take care of his younger brothers. So when Fiona is found and she's back at the Sullivan place, he's drawn to her. She says she's not Fiona but he knows deep down that she is and in the end it doesn't matter because all he can see is her.
Francesca Sabatini (or at least that was one of the names of the many IDs she had on her) came to the USA after her 18th birthday and to celebrate her high school graduation. Her face is recognized by TSA scanners and they match her to a child Fiona Sullivan who went missing for the past 12 years during a trip in Italy. The FBI take her into custody and they force her to go live with the Sullivan family until Fiona Sullivan's 18th birthday.
Francesca/Fiona's life has been anything except normal. Most of her life, she's had many different names, she speaks many languages, and she's been all over the world. She's been to school all over the world and never lasts very long in those places due to her safety. She doesn't understand why everyone thinks she's Fiona Sullivan and being forced to live with this family she doesn't know. At first when she gets to the Sullivan Farm, she refuses to speak English and will only speak Italian to them. But she starts to get to know the family and Brody and she wishes she was Fiona Sullivan.
Brody has always lived next door to the Sullivan's home. Twelve years ago when Fiona disappeared, his life changed drastically. They were very young and he was a couple of years older but Brody knew Fiona was his soulmate and the only one for him. So when she went missing and was possibly dead, it just broke him a little and made him angry and he started acting out. He got into fights a lot and trouble and he was somewhat a player. He's had a pretty tragic life because first he lost Fiona and then when he was 15 years old his parents were killed. Brody has an older brother Renn and two younger brothers. Luckily the court let the brothers stay together and he had to grow up pretty fast to take care of his younger brothers. So when Fiona is found and she's back at the Sullivan place, he's drawn to her. She says she's not Fiona but he knows deep down that she is and in the end it doesn't matter because all he can see is her.
July 2, 2013
A Young Adult read about discovering who you are, the future, love, identity and family
Francesca Sabatini gets off her plane, ready to explore America for a few months until she starts College, only to be dragged away from her dreams by the FBI. Her face has been recognized by TSA scanners and they believe she is Fiona Sullivan, the girl who went missing twelve years ago.
Fiona's adoptive family were The Sullivans, their hearts were broken 12 years ago, when Fiona and her adoptive mother went missing after a trip to Italy. Francesca is forced to stay with them for several weeks until she turns eighteen, then as an adult, they have no legal hold over her. After Francesca refuses to speak English and denies them as her family, they are heartbroken all over again.
Orphaned at a young age 20 year old Brody Mason lives with his 3 brothers, even though his neighbour Mr Sullivan thought that the boys should be placed in his care, his older brother works hard for them.
Brody lost his faith years ago, when he finally gave up hope, he was lost, he got in fights, got in trouble, his childhood soulmate was lost forever. But now, now she's come back, she doesn't know she's Fiona, she insists that she is not, but he knows that it's her, and he's not letting her go this time.
I really enjoyed this book, it's complicated, but not overly so, was a little confusing at the start, there were many characters to keep track of. It's detailed and descriptive, plenty of dialogue, smartly written and written well. The mystery was interesting, but not hidden from view, there are snippets throughout the book that give clues to what the truth may actually be. The romance is similar to Hopeless by Colleen Hoover, but the story is less casual.
Writing style: 9/10
Characters: 8/10
Romance: 9/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
Ending: 9/10
Epilogue: 7/10
My star ratings:
1* Complete trash
2* Waste of time really, but I carried on for some reason
3* Half decent, usually down to personal preferences
4* Could read this again, only a little thing is missing, maybe more humour or romance etc...
5* Would read this again and again, unique story, adore this author
Francesca Sabatini gets off her plane, ready to explore America for a few months until she starts College, only to be dragged away from her dreams by the FBI. Her face has been recognized by TSA scanners and they believe she is Fiona Sullivan, the girl who went missing twelve years ago.
Fiona's adoptive family were The Sullivans, their hearts were broken 12 years ago, when Fiona and her adoptive mother went missing after a trip to Italy. Francesca is forced to stay with them for several weeks until she turns eighteen, then as an adult, they have no legal hold over her. After Francesca refuses to speak English and denies them as her family, they are heartbroken all over again.
Orphaned at a young age 20 year old Brody Mason lives with his 3 brothers, even though his neighbour Mr Sullivan thought that the boys should be placed in his care, his older brother works hard for them.
Brody lost his faith years ago, when he finally gave up hope, he was lost, he got in fights, got in trouble, his childhood soulmate was lost forever. But now, now she's come back, she doesn't know she's Fiona, she insists that she is not, but he knows that it's her, and he's not letting her go this time.
I really enjoyed this book, it's complicated, but not overly so, was a little confusing at the start, there were many characters to keep track of. It's detailed and descriptive, plenty of dialogue, smartly written and written well. The mystery was interesting, but not hidden from view, there are snippets throughout the book that give clues to what the truth may actually be. The romance is similar to Hopeless by Colleen Hoover, but the story is less casual.
Writing style: 9/10
Characters: 8/10
Romance: 9/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
Ending: 9/10
Epilogue: 7/10
My star ratings:
1* Complete trash
2* Waste of time really, but I carried on for some reason
3* Half decent, usually down to personal preferences
4* Could read this again, only a little thing is missing, maybe more humour or romance etc...
5* Would read this again and again, unique story, adore this author
June 6, 2013
A 'you must drop everything and read this' kind of story. Luckily, I got to read an advance copy of Losing Francesca. One of the best stories I’ve read this year! It was so amazing, I read it in one night, a rare thing for me.
I love how JA Huss writes, it’s like emotions painted out with entrancing and flowing colors. This story was no exception. The blurb tells you what you need to know about the book and I have to say, every time I read this author’s work, it’s the definition of a mind bend. She’s an expert at twisting the plot into so many directions, misdirections and mystery, you can be left utterly flabbergasted at the end result. You just don’t ever see the ending coming.
Francesca Sabatini, also known as the long missing/abducted Fiona Sullivan, is a girl full of secrets. I wasn’t too sure what to think of her and she does get downright mighty annoying when she plants her feet to the ground and treats everyone in her adoptive family, The Sullivans, which she has just met, like they are her wardens. In a way, I can see why she feels that way, she’s been torn from what she thinks is her blood family, even though the family she’s with now are her family too, through adoption. How this all comes about is one insane ride.
Brody is her love interest and one of the town’s bad boys. His obsession with Fiona’s disappearance 12 yrs ago continues, especially after meeting Francesca/Fiona when she is forced to return to the Sullivan’s farm until she turns eighteen. He knows she’s the girl he’s dreamt about for years since they were best friends as little children. He’s amazing- a gentlemen of sorts, dedicated to Francesca/Fiona in a way that makes me just swoon. Who wouldn’t drool over such a fine man? Well Francesca can’t resist either, and I can’t blame her one bit. He’s written out as a broken creature, but I don’t see him as that shattered. With Fiona’s return, he really comes into himself and the way he treats her, oh my, can I just say you will want a Brody too.
As time goes on and Francesca’s two lives and lies come to a flitting collision and she really starts to wonder if she even wants to leave and return to the only life she can remember. Her father sounds like a dangerous man who has some sort of power and makes her fear about her future, but we don’t really see exactly why until we meet him. Seeing her interact with her adoptive family, along with Brody and the horses on the farm, which draw her in like magnets, makes me root for her to find a way to stay, even with the impending doom of another life sneaking up fast.
Full of twists and turns to keep you guessing what’s really going on, I absolutely loved this tale of love, family, discovery and what it means to follow your heart in adversity. Losing Francesca is a tale to stay with you late into the night and sent your heart fluttering. You’ve got to pick this up when it comes out, soooo yummy!
I love how JA Huss writes, it’s like emotions painted out with entrancing and flowing colors. This story was no exception. The blurb tells you what you need to know about the book and I have to say, every time I read this author’s work, it’s the definition of a mind bend. She’s an expert at twisting the plot into so many directions, misdirections and mystery, you can be left utterly flabbergasted at the end result. You just don’t ever see the ending coming.
Francesca Sabatini, also known as the long missing/abducted Fiona Sullivan, is a girl full of secrets. I wasn’t too sure what to think of her and she does get downright mighty annoying when she plants her feet to the ground and treats everyone in her adoptive family, The Sullivans, which she has just met, like they are her wardens. In a way, I can see why she feels that way, she’s been torn from what she thinks is her blood family, even though the family she’s with now are her family too, through adoption. How this all comes about is one insane ride.
Brody is her love interest and one of the town’s bad boys. His obsession with Fiona’s disappearance 12 yrs ago continues, especially after meeting Francesca/Fiona when she is forced to return to the Sullivan’s farm until she turns eighteen. He knows she’s the girl he’s dreamt about for years since they were best friends as little children. He’s amazing- a gentlemen of sorts, dedicated to Francesca/Fiona in a way that makes me just swoon. Who wouldn’t drool over such a fine man? Well Francesca can’t resist either, and I can’t blame her one bit. He’s written out as a broken creature, but I don’t see him as that shattered. With Fiona’s return, he really comes into himself and the way he treats her, oh my, can I just say you will want a Brody too.
As time goes on and Francesca’s two lives and lies come to a flitting collision and she really starts to wonder if she even wants to leave and return to the only life she can remember. Her father sounds like a dangerous man who has some sort of power and makes her fear about her future, but we don’t really see exactly why until we meet him. Seeing her interact with her adoptive family, along with Brody and the horses on the farm, which draw her in like magnets, makes me root for her to find a way to stay, even with the impending doom of another life sneaking up fast.
Full of twists and turns to keep you guessing what’s really going on, I absolutely loved this tale of love, family, discovery and what it means to follow your heart in adversity. Losing Francesca is a tale to stay with you late into the night and sent your heart fluttering. You’ve got to pick this up when it comes out, soooo yummy!
June 18, 2013
I got a copy for review in exchange for an honest review
I really enjoyed Tragic by JA Huss, so when I heard about Losing Francesca I knew I wanted to be part of that blog tour and read it. I didn't expect it to be this good.
Losing Francesca started of a bit slow for me and I got annoyed at all the italian sentences that where trown around without translation. I wanted to understand what she was saying. After this slow start the story really came alive for me. If you are expecting a book like Tragic you won't get it. This story is sweet and filled with love. Really I almost sat there crying a few times, because it was just so sweet and I could feel the love and the emotions. I really like JA Huss her writing style and plan on also checking out her science fiction series too, because I have to know if it's as good as her contemporary books.
This story is about love and family mostly, but it also has some mystery that only get's cleared up at the end. I loved the mystery aspect, although at the beginning it just was really confusing. The story starts off after most of what is stated in the blurb already has happened and I just wanted to go back in time and read about that too, because I was a bit lost and I had no idea who the main character was. And even though it is told in I perspective, you don't get to know everything that goes on in her head. A lot stays secret until the rest of the characters find out. And I am not saying this book is perfect, it certainly missed some more in depth explanations at the end, but I loved this book and once I started reading I couldn't put it down.
The characters are great, but what I loved most about them was that I could feel their emotions. The main character ends up in a strange place and you feel her fear and sadness and panic. And the other characters are great too, although I wished I could get to know some of them better. Brody and the main character are the two I got to know best, the other character also play a role, but less so. I did like the Sullivan family and how they felt so real and alive. And even though I don't get to know everything about them, I still liked them.
To conclude: this book is so sweet and full of emotions and I loved it. I couldn't stop reading. There is romance and mystery and love and family. And I loved getting swept up in all the emotions. There where some explanations that could've been a bit more elaborate and some characters I wanted to get to know better, but all in all it's a great book and I loved it.
I really enjoyed Tragic by JA Huss, so when I heard about Losing Francesca I knew I wanted to be part of that blog tour and read it. I didn't expect it to be this good.
Losing Francesca started of a bit slow for me and I got annoyed at all the italian sentences that where trown around without translation. I wanted to understand what she was saying. After this slow start the story really came alive for me. If you are expecting a book like Tragic you won't get it. This story is sweet and filled with love. Really I almost sat there crying a few times, because it was just so sweet and I could feel the love and the emotions. I really like JA Huss her writing style and plan on also checking out her science fiction series too, because I have to know if it's as good as her contemporary books.
This story is about love and family mostly, but it also has some mystery that only get's cleared up at the end. I loved the mystery aspect, although at the beginning it just was really confusing. The story starts off after most of what is stated in the blurb already has happened and I just wanted to go back in time and read about that too, because I was a bit lost and I had no idea who the main character was. And even though it is told in I perspective, you don't get to know everything that goes on in her head. A lot stays secret until the rest of the characters find out. And I am not saying this book is perfect, it certainly missed some more in depth explanations at the end, but I loved this book and once I started reading I couldn't put it down.
The characters are great, but what I loved most about them was that I could feel their emotions. The main character ends up in a strange place and you feel her fear and sadness and panic. And the other characters are great too, although I wished I could get to know some of them better. Brody and the main character are the two I got to know best, the other character also play a role, but less so. I did like the Sullivan family and how they felt so real and alive. And even though I don't get to know everything about them, I still liked them.
To conclude: this book is so sweet and full of emotions and I loved it. I couldn't stop reading. There is romance and mystery and love and family. And I loved getting swept up in all the emotions. There where some explanations that could've been a bit more elaborate and some characters I wanted to get to know better, but all in all it's a great book and I loved it.
February 6, 2015
OMG. So touching!!
December 26, 2015
4 stars
July 23, 2019
Losing Francesca is a good story with a lot of suspense and mystery! I loved that Francesca wasn't even sure herself who she was. She knew many languages, and she was able to keep most people at bay. Until the Sullivan's were able to get her to move to their home.
Well written, the story had me glued to my kindle until I came to the end.
Well written, the story had me glued to my kindle until I came to the end.
May 29, 2014
JA Huss's Rook & Ronin Series (plus spin off's) are some of my favorite books to read. I bought Losing Francesca when it was on sale for 99 cents once upon a time - and it sat on my kindle.
What the hell was I thinking??? I'm not sure why it got bumped from the top of my list, but I'm so glad I remembered I had it.
This was a FANTASTIC read. I was sucked in from the beginning and couldn't put the book down all day.
It is very different from the Rook & Ronin series - let me warn you. There is NO SEX. Nope, not one sex scene.
And I loved every minute of it.
This is a book about self discovery. I loved watching the main character grow. I loved the connection she had with Brody. I loved it that she struggled with her feelings for both families.
You HAVE to read this book!!!!!
I don't want to spoil anything by summarizing.
Highly recommend. No cliffhanger - thank you JA!
And I loved that most of the book took place in North East Ohio!!!
What the hell was I thinking??? I'm not sure why it got bumped from the top of my list, but I'm so glad I remembered I had it.
This was a FANTASTIC read. I was sucked in from the beginning and couldn't put the book down all day.
It is very different from the Rook & Ronin series - let me warn you. There is NO SEX. Nope, not one sex scene.
And I loved every minute of it.
This is a book about self discovery. I loved watching the main character grow. I loved the connection she had with Brody. I loved it that she struggled with her feelings for both families.
You HAVE to read this book!!!!!
I don't want to spoil anything by summarizing.
Highly recommend. No cliffhanger - thank you JA!
And I loved that most of the book took place in North East Ohio!!!
October 18, 2022
Re-read - - Young Adult - second chances - twelve years apart. No cheating, no other romantic interests.
This is a young man that loves a girl with every fibre of his being.
And then Fiona came home.
He never realised how much was missing until she returned.
The plot was engaging and wove a twist of Fiona/Francesca/Filia/Faina’s identity. She vanished along with her mother and her adopted mother, twelve years before. Technically, she was seven at the time of her disappearance, by all accounts, she is shy of turning eighteen as Fiona, as Francesca…she turned eighteen a few months ago.
Brody’s memories of them began standing at the bus stop, looking down the dirt road at Fiona's tree. He talks of her at school, conjuring stories of her being ill but that she’ll be better the next day. When the end of the first day of school became the end of the first week, he still held out hope that Fiona is merely on holiday. She’d be having a good time, I say. They’d extended their time away…to him, at his tender age, it made perfect sense, despite Sean standing next to him at the bus stop and sitting next to him, in maths class. When the end of the first week turned into the end of the first month, then the second, then the sixth, then the twelfth he still held out hope. He’d heard the rumours of bodies being recovered. Who? Who would want to kill Fiona?
At nine, Brody is still looking for Fiona in the woods, seeing her kidnappers behind every tree. That year he still discusses her but later, he begins referring to her in the past. The counsellors assure his parents it's a progress, he's accepting, he's moving on. He's OK now.
Eleven-year-old Brody... lost Fiona, but lost himself, too. He is angry. He hates her. Her school picture from kindergarten, the one that had her sloppy kindergarten handwriting on the back. He set it on fire.
Thirteen-year-old Brody. He is resplendent in his anguish and desolation. Angry, mean, violent. Fighting almost daily. The counsellors claim he��s not adjusting. He’s traumatised and needs help. He wants to yell. “I need help? I need help? I'm not the one who needs help! Fiona! Fiona needs help! Someone, just please, help her. Find her! But no one does. She is just gone”.
Fifteen-year-old Brody. His parents are dead. Renn is in college, almost finished. They sell some land to the Sullivans, cash in all the life insurance policies, and Renn goes to court and fights for them, fighting to keep them together. He shows them the bank accounts. They are rich. They will take care of each other. He pleads with the judge, as Brody sits there watching him beg, that they need him. He needs him and if they take him away from Renn it will be all kinds of wrong.
He tells the judge, If he rips them apart, it will destroy them. The judge speaks to Brody privately in his chambers, stating it’s his last chance. Time to grow up.
They grew up that day in court. Renn returned to Ohio State to finish his last semester and the rest of the boys moved with him, switched schools, and stayed in an apartment near campus until graduation.
His brother, Renn got an impressive job and lived there during the week while Brody cared for the little brothers at the house. He returned every Friday night and took over. These boys survived without parents, four brothers in a big house, on a big piece of land, on the lake shore in Northeastern Ohio. In fact, they thrived. No one cared for them, they cared for each other.
Fast forward and he’s twenty-year-old Brody.
One week ago.
One week ago life was normal.
And then Fiona came home.
He never realised how much was missing until she came back.
Francesca arrives to begin College under an assumed name and three passports. Using facial recognition software, she is detained having been identified as Fiona Sullivan, a missing person.
The Judge remands her into the custody of her former adoptive family the Sullivans mandating that Fiona must remain with them for six weeks until she turns eighteen.
Initially she erects a wall and rejects all overtures of friendliness, showing her disdain, speaking only in Italian...frustrating everyone with her reluctance to interact with them. She was an immovable force❗️
Fiona/Francesca/Filia/Faina vanished along with her mother and her adopted mother, twelve years before. Technically, she was seven at the time of her disappearance, by all accounts, she is shy of turning eighteen in previous time, yet according to her, she turned eighteen a few months ago.
Her father, shows up to claim his daughter. Menacingly, he shows the DNA test run by the FBI lab, proof that she is not Fiona Sullivan but his daughter, Faina Saburov... the daughter of Russian mafia, Viktor Saburov. His mirror image.
"Everything I've done to keep her safe is wiped away in one minute. I am here and you cannot even touch me." He laughs as he waves his hand at the flags affixed to the top of the long black car. "I am diplomat," he says in a thick Russian accent. "I have immunity," he says, switching to perfect American English. "She is my daughter and she is coming with me.”
After returning with her father, Viktor arranges a marriage for her.
Brody wants her to be Fiona Sullivan, he cannot explain how much he needs her to be Fiona. “I so, so want you to be her, Francesca. I cannot even explain how much I want to talk to her again. How much I want to tell her about all the days we never shared, to tell her that I thought of her at the end of every single one of them and that I prayed to God for years, every night, that she'd come back. I want to give her the Fruit Roll-Up I brought to school that first day back after summer vacation. That stupid Fruit Roll-Up that I still have hidden away. This unwavering faith that only a kid can have that one day my friend would be back. And when she finally showed up, I'd give her that stupid snack to show her how much I missed her. And to prove myself to her. Because that little girl was my soulmate.”
Before her disappearance, Brody was her best friend, her absence devastated him, but he never lost hope and yearned for her return.
Brody fills in the missing pieces, allowing the FBI to track her father’s jet to their destination. Coordinating a confrontation. There is a reckoning.
Viktor — “what I do is unpopular, dangerous, and illegal."
Yekaterina, Fiona’s mum was loved by Viktor. Advancing very quickly within the ranks, anyone close to him became…a liability. People were threatening her, he moved her to Romania just to keep her alive and when she became pregnant, he sent her to America.
She was very frightened and when Fiona was born, she decided to give her up for adoption, so no one would ever know her identity. To protect her. The Sullivans adopted her. Her mum chose them.
They chose a nice Irish family to erase all evidence of her Russian heritage. Her parents paid the adoption agency to monitor her, hired security...until their Italian holiday.
He looks to Frank. "I did not kill your wife. And I did not steal my daughter back. My enemies knew she was my daughter and they took her. They found her, they found them alone that day. They killed your wife and dumped her body in the sea. They were about to kill Faina too, but my men intervened. They killed my Yekaterina, too. They got my wife right after she came home from America and moved in with me in my Moldova flat. So I took my daughter back. I took your daughter away. To keep her safe, and all this time I have kept her safe. She would be dead without me."
He looks back to Fiona. "I'm sorry. They killed your adopted mother right in front of you. You had so many nightmares.”
I am delighted when a book surprises me and I enjoy it. Sprinkled with charm.
A rich emotive story, steeped amongst the heartache is the foundation of love, infused with hope. A story of a young man with unshakable faith and a family that simply wants to get to know her...on any terms.
Filled with exemplary secondary characters, angst, inner turmoil. Events which threaten to ruin an already fragile balance.
This is a young man that loves a girl with every fibre of his being.
And then Fiona came home.
He never realised how much was missing until she returned.
The plot was engaging and wove a twist of Fiona/Francesca/Filia/Faina’s identity. She vanished along with her mother and her adopted mother, twelve years before. Technically, she was seven at the time of her disappearance, by all accounts, she is shy of turning eighteen as Fiona, as Francesca…she turned eighteen a few months ago.
Brody’s memories of them began standing at the bus stop, looking down the dirt road at Fiona's tree. He talks of her at school, conjuring stories of her being ill but that she’ll be better the next day. When the end of the first day of school became the end of the first week, he still held out hope that Fiona is merely on holiday. She’d be having a good time, I say. They’d extended their time away…to him, at his tender age, it made perfect sense, despite Sean standing next to him at the bus stop and sitting next to him, in maths class. When the end of the first week turned into the end of the first month, then the second, then the sixth, then the twelfth he still held out hope. He’d heard the rumours of bodies being recovered. Who? Who would want to kill Fiona?
At nine, Brody is still looking for Fiona in the woods, seeing her kidnappers behind every tree. That year he still discusses her but later, he begins referring to her in the past. The counsellors assure his parents it's a progress, he's accepting, he's moving on. He's OK now.
Eleven-year-old Brody... lost Fiona, but lost himself, too. He is angry. He hates her. Her school picture from kindergarten, the one that had her sloppy kindergarten handwriting on the back. He set it on fire.
Thirteen-year-old Brody. He is resplendent in his anguish and desolation. Angry, mean, violent. Fighting almost daily. The counsellors claim he��s not adjusting. He’s traumatised and needs help. He wants to yell. “I need help? I need help? I'm not the one who needs help! Fiona! Fiona needs help! Someone, just please, help her. Find her! But no one does. She is just gone”.
Fifteen-year-old Brody. His parents are dead. Renn is in college, almost finished. They sell some land to the Sullivans, cash in all the life insurance policies, and Renn goes to court and fights for them, fighting to keep them together. He shows them the bank accounts. They are rich. They will take care of each other. He pleads with the judge, as Brody sits there watching him beg, that they need him. He needs him and if they take him away from Renn it will be all kinds of wrong.
He tells the judge, If he rips them apart, it will destroy them. The judge speaks to Brody privately in his chambers, stating it’s his last chance. Time to grow up.
They grew up that day in court. Renn returned to Ohio State to finish his last semester and the rest of the boys moved with him, switched schools, and stayed in an apartment near campus until graduation.
His brother, Renn got an impressive job and lived there during the week while Brody cared for the little brothers at the house. He returned every Friday night and took over. These boys survived without parents, four brothers in a big house, on a big piece of land, on the lake shore in Northeastern Ohio. In fact, they thrived. No one cared for them, they cared for each other.
Fast forward and he’s twenty-year-old Brody.
One week ago.
One week ago life was normal.
And then Fiona came home.
He never realised how much was missing until she came back.
Francesca arrives to begin College under an assumed name and three passports. Using facial recognition software, she is detained having been identified as Fiona Sullivan, a missing person.
The Judge remands her into the custody of her former adoptive family the Sullivans mandating that Fiona must remain with them for six weeks until she turns eighteen.
Initially she erects a wall and rejects all overtures of friendliness, showing her disdain, speaking only in Italian...frustrating everyone with her reluctance to interact with them. She was an immovable force❗️
Fiona/Francesca/Filia/Faina vanished along with her mother and her adopted mother, twelve years before. Technically, she was seven at the time of her disappearance, by all accounts, she is shy of turning eighteen in previous time, yet according to her, she turned eighteen a few months ago.
Her father, shows up to claim his daughter. Menacingly, he shows the DNA test run by the FBI lab, proof that she is not Fiona Sullivan but his daughter, Faina Saburov... the daughter of Russian mafia, Viktor Saburov. His mirror image.
"Everything I've done to keep her safe is wiped away in one minute. I am here and you cannot even touch me." He laughs as he waves his hand at the flags affixed to the top of the long black car. "I am diplomat," he says in a thick Russian accent. "I have immunity," he says, switching to perfect American English. "She is my daughter and she is coming with me.”
After returning with her father, Viktor arranges a marriage for her.
Brody wants her to be Fiona Sullivan, he cannot explain how much he needs her to be Fiona. “I so, so want you to be her, Francesca. I cannot even explain how much I want to talk to her again. How much I want to tell her about all the days we never shared, to tell her that I thought of her at the end of every single one of them and that I prayed to God for years, every night, that she'd come back. I want to give her the Fruit Roll-Up I brought to school that first day back after summer vacation. That stupid Fruit Roll-Up that I still have hidden away. This unwavering faith that only a kid can have that one day my friend would be back. And when she finally showed up, I'd give her that stupid snack to show her how much I missed her. And to prove myself to her. Because that little girl was my soulmate.”
Before her disappearance, Brody was her best friend, her absence devastated him, but he never lost hope and yearned for her return.
Brody fills in the missing pieces, allowing the FBI to track her father’s jet to their destination. Coordinating a confrontation. There is a reckoning.
Viktor — “what I do is unpopular, dangerous, and illegal."
Yekaterina, Fiona’s mum was loved by Viktor. Advancing very quickly within the ranks, anyone close to him became…a liability. People were threatening her, he moved her to Romania just to keep her alive and when she became pregnant, he sent her to America.
She was very frightened and when Fiona was born, she decided to give her up for adoption, so no one would ever know her identity. To protect her. The Sullivans adopted her. Her mum chose them.
They chose a nice Irish family to erase all evidence of her Russian heritage. Her parents paid the adoption agency to monitor her, hired security...until their Italian holiday.
He looks to Frank. "I did not kill your wife. And I did not steal my daughter back. My enemies knew she was my daughter and they took her. They found her, they found them alone that day. They killed your wife and dumped her body in the sea. They were about to kill Faina too, but my men intervened. They killed my Yekaterina, too. They got my wife right after she came home from America and moved in with me in my Moldova flat. So I took my daughter back. I took your daughter away. To keep her safe, and all this time I have kept her safe. She would be dead without me."
He looks back to Fiona. "I'm sorry. They killed your adopted mother right in front of you. You had so many nightmares.”
I am delighted when a book surprises me and I enjoy it. Sprinkled with charm.
A rich emotive story, steeped amongst the heartache is the foundation of love, infused with hope. A story of a young man with unshakable faith and a family that simply wants to get to know her...on any terms.
Filled with exemplary secondary characters, angst, inner turmoil. Events which threaten to ruin an already fragile balance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2013
4.5 stars!!!
“I'm being held prisoner by the American government all because my face matched a progressive artistic rendering when I passed through security at the airport in LA. I am the daughter of someone, but it isn't Frank Sullivan. I'm sorry his daughter was stolen or killed, or whatever it was that happened to her, but I am not her.”
Once Francesca Sabatini arrives in the USA she's immediately taken into custody and face matched to a six year old little girl that was kidnapped years ago. Authorities are convinced that Francesca is Fiona Sullivan. After trying to get answers out of Francesca and uncovering nothing but an uncooperative teenager, they send Fiona to live with her family in which she was supposedly kidnapped from.
When she arrives at the Sullivan's home she's extremely uncooperative. Their lifestyle is so different from the life she lives as Francesca Sabatini. The Sullivan's live on a simple horse ranch with all of their adopted children. Theirs no privacy and everyone helps out with the chores. Francesca is overwhelmed and knows the authorities have made a mistake. She doesn't belong here with the Sullivan's and knows her rich and powerful father will find her and bring her back home.
“Everywhere I go I am untouchable. I am rich, I am privileged, and I have been given every opportunity a kid could have on this whole green earth.
But here in America… I'm worse than nobody, because here, I'm Fiona Sullivan.”
Enter the swoon-tastic Brody Mason... Brody is obsessed with Fiona Sullivan. As kids, Fiona and Brody were inseparable. Brody always loved Fiona and knew she was the one for him. So at six years old when Fiona goes missing, Brody searches for her. He searches for years before giving up, yet he always had a feeling that one day she would return. When Brody catches wind that Fiona Sullivan has been found and returned home, he immediately rushes to the Sullivan's. One good look into Fiona's grey eyes is all he needs to prove to himself that Francesca Sabatini is in fact Fiona Sullivan.
“Yeah, well, I've always been her boyfriend. She just didn't know it. This girl is my one. And she's always been the one.”
Even though Francesca knows she isn't this Fiona Sullivan everyone claims her to be, she's immediately drawn to Brody. They begin to hang out and she likes how Brody listens to her and accepts her as Francesca Sabatini even though he still calls her Fee, his nickname he gave Fiona when they were six. He also challenges her to think about her past and helps her reveal her true identity. He's patient with Francesca and has no plans of ever letting her go again. But Francesca can feel their time is dwindling. Her father will come for her soon, but now she isn't as sure of her identity or where she wants to be.
This book was a sweet surprise for me. I've never heard of J.A. Huss before reading Losing Francesca, but that's the beauty of blogging! The flow of the book was great, the twists and turns were unexpected, and the author ultimately left me mystified through the entire book! Everytime I thought I had things figured out, I was completely wrong. I enjoy a book that makes me think, and Losing Francesca definitely had that element.
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters. Francesca was snooty and hard at first, but softens and opens her heart to Brody and the Sullivan family. I felt connected to her and also felt the emotions she went through while figuring out who she really was.
Brody was ahhhhhhmmmmaaazzziiinnnggg..... I have a new book boyfriend for sure! Just his name is hott! Lol. But really, I loved his bad boy edge and male whoring ways, yet when it came to his Fee he's this sweet, romantic, and kind-hearted gentleman. He even makes Francesca wait for the perfect day to give her her very first kiss. He's patient with her and allows her to open up to him at her own pace. Overall Brody was my favorite character.
The end has an epilogue and gives us a glimpse into the future and it has NO cliffhanger so this made me one happy girl!!! I gave this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Www.Jeneesbookblog.com
“I'm being held prisoner by the American government all because my face matched a progressive artistic rendering when I passed through security at the airport in LA. I am the daughter of someone, but it isn't Frank Sullivan. I'm sorry his daughter was stolen or killed, or whatever it was that happened to her, but I am not her.”
Once Francesca Sabatini arrives in the USA she's immediately taken into custody and face matched to a six year old little girl that was kidnapped years ago. Authorities are convinced that Francesca is Fiona Sullivan. After trying to get answers out of Francesca and uncovering nothing but an uncooperative teenager, they send Fiona to live with her family in which she was supposedly kidnapped from.
When she arrives at the Sullivan's home she's extremely uncooperative. Their lifestyle is so different from the life she lives as Francesca Sabatini. The Sullivan's live on a simple horse ranch with all of their adopted children. Theirs no privacy and everyone helps out with the chores. Francesca is overwhelmed and knows the authorities have made a mistake. She doesn't belong here with the Sullivan's and knows her rich and powerful father will find her and bring her back home.
“Everywhere I go I am untouchable. I am rich, I am privileged, and I have been given every opportunity a kid could have on this whole green earth.
But here in America… I'm worse than nobody, because here, I'm Fiona Sullivan.”
Enter the swoon-tastic Brody Mason... Brody is obsessed with Fiona Sullivan. As kids, Fiona and Brody were inseparable. Brody always loved Fiona and knew she was the one for him. So at six years old when Fiona goes missing, Brody searches for her. He searches for years before giving up, yet he always had a feeling that one day she would return. When Brody catches wind that Fiona Sullivan has been found and returned home, he immediately rushes to the Sullivan's. One good look into Fiona's grey eyes is all he needs to prove to himself that Francesca Sabatini is in fact Fiona Sullivan.
“Yeah, well, I've always been her boyfriend. She just didn't know it. This girl is my one. And she's always been the one.”
Even though Francesca knows she isn't this Fiona Sullivan everyone claims her to be, she's immediately drawn to Brody. They begin to hang out and she likes how Brody listens to her and accepts her as Francesca Sabatini even though he still calls her Fee, his nickname he gave Fiona when they were six. He also challenges her to think about her past and helps her reveal her true identity. He's patient with Francesca and has no plans of ever letting her go again. But Francesca can feel their time is dwindling. Her father will come for her soon, but now she isn't as sure of her identity or where she wants to be.
This book was a sweet surprise for me. I've never heard of J.A. Huss before reading Losing Francesca, but that's the beauty of blogging! The flow of the book was great, the twists and turns were unexpected, and the author ultimately left me mystified through the entire book! Everytime I thought I had things figured out, I was completely wrong. I enjoy a book that makes me think, and Losing Francesca definitely had that element.
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters. Francesca was snooty and hard at first, but softens and opens her heart to Brody and the Sullivan family. I felt connected to her and also felt the emotions she went through while figuring out who she really was.
Brody was ahhhhhhmmmmaaazzziiinnnggg..... I have a new book boyfriend for sure! Just his name is hott! Lol. But really, I loved his bad boy edge and male whoring ways, yet when it came to his Fee he's this sweet, romantic, and kind-hearted gentleman. He even makes Francesca wait for the perfect day to give her her very first kiss. He's patient with her and allows her to open up to him at her own pace. Overall Brody was my favorite character.
The end has an epilogue and gives us a glimpse into the future and it has NO cliffhanger so this made me one happy girl!!! I gave this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Www.Jeneesbookblog.com
July 11, 2013
Losing Francesca is am AMAZING .... CAPTIVATING .... INTRIGUING .... HEARTFELT .... MUST READ STORY!
Holy Fiona..... is what first pops into my mind. After reading J.A. other book Manic this book took me by surprise. I mean it was so realistic it was like she ripped it from the front pages of the news. I kept thinking Lord this could be a real story this is a real life story. This is how it all begins....
Imagine you are going to America to take in the sights. Your small island in Italy is nothing compared to the rolling farms of Ohio where you land after you enter American soil because your face was recognized as a child's who was kidnapped over 12 years ago. That is what happens to Francesca when she arrives in America. She is whisked away to a family she does not know and she is forced to stay there with them. All Francesca knows is that she came to America to have some fun before she started out college in the fall and now she is being told that she is not Francesca but she is Fiona and she and her mother had been kidnapped over 12 years ago and her real family wants her back.
At first Francesca is scared because she is in a foreign place and she knows no one and when she reaches out to her father all hell breaks lose. Her father is man not to be messed with and when he finds out that his daughter has been taken on American soil he not to pleased. But soon Francesca starts to meet everyone and starts to feel semi comfortable. But her real comfort comes in the way of Brody. Brody has been friends with Fiona since forever and has missed her dearly for 12 years and when she returns as Francesca he is determined to help her find out the truth of who she is and where she really did come from.
As Brody and Francesca get closer Francesca starts to fall for Brody and begins to open up to him and trust him whole heartedly. When it comes time to face her father from Italy what will Francesca do? Who is Francesca? Will she and Brody be together in the end? This is a must read book for the summer! It totally blew me away!
Holy Fiona..... is what first pops into my mind. After reading J.A. other book Manic this book took me by surprise. I mean it was so realistic it was like she ripped it from the front pages of the news. I kept thinking Lord this could be a real story this is a real life story. This is how it all begins....
Imagine you are going to America to take in the sights. Your small island in Italy is nothing compared to the rolling farms of Ohio where you land after you enter American soil because your face was recognized as a child's who was kidnapped over 12 years ago. That is what happens to Francesca when she arrives in America. She is whisked away to a family she does not know and she is forced to stay there with them. All Francesca knows is that she came to America to have some fun before she started out college in the fall and now she is being told that she is not Francesca but she is Fiona and she and her mother had been kidnapped over 12 years ago and her real family wants her back.
At first Francesca is scared because she is in a foreign place and she knows no one and when she reaches out to her father all hell breaks lose. Her father is man not to be messed with and when he finds out that his daughter has been taken on American soil he not to pleased. But soon Francesca starts to meet everyone and starts to feel semi comfortable. But her real comfort comes in the way of Brody. Brody has been friends with Fiona since forever and has missed her dearly for 12 years and when she returns as Francesca he is determined to help her find out the truth of who she is and where she really did come from.
As Brody and Francesca get closer Francesca starts to fall for Brody and begins to open up to him and trust him whole heartedly. When it comes time to face her father from Italy what will Francesca do? Who is Francesca? Will she and Brody be together in the end? This is a must read book for the summer! It totally blew me away!
July 22, 2013
Holy just wow. Wow. Full review to come once I dry my eyes and screw my head back on straight.
****
Updated 7/22 with full review:
In the first few chapters, I was a bit confused, and things seemed sort of contradictory. Later, I realized that was because Francesca had a big secret, and all the little confusing bits wrap up together into a nice, neat, jaw-dropping, tear inducing, cliffhanger free package by the end of this amazing book.
I thought Francesca was a bit of a brat at first, and I started to wonder why anyone would want her, but as she slowly allowed the reader to see more of her world, and her mind, and her hopes and fears, I began to understand her.
Brody was amazing. I want a Brody, and I think every girl needs a Brody. He is the perfect example of unconditional love, and he’s just… wow.
The plot seems like a jumbled, confusing, erratic mess, until the pieces of this very twisted and expertly crafted puzzle begin to align, and we realize exactly what is going on.
Do you like
-Strong heroines
-Suspense
-Handsome, sweet but a little rough around the edges but always loyal heroes
-Well written storytelling
If so, Losing Francesca should be next on your TBR list. Also, if you ever read “The Face on the Milk Carton” this book reminded me slightly of that, but in a more grown up, NA setting, and more modern.
In short, I loved this book.
****
Updated 7/22 with full review:
In the first few chapters, I was a bit confused, and things seemed sort of contradictory. Later, I realized that was because Francesca had a big secret, and all the little confusing bits wrap up together into a nice, neat, jaw-dropping, tear inducing, cliffhanger free package by the end of this amazing book.
I thought Francesca was a bit of a brat at first, and I started to wonder why anyone would want her, but as she slowly allowed the reader to see more of her world, and her mind, and her hopes and fears, I began to understand her.
Brody was amazing. I want a Brody, and I think every girl needs a Brody. He is the perfect example of unconditional love, and he’s just… wow.
The plot seems like a jumbled, confusing, erratic mess, until the pieces of this very twisted and expertly crafted puzzle begin to align, and we realize exactly what is going on.
Do you like
-Strong heroines
-Suspense
-Handsome, sweet but a little rough around the edges but always loyal heroes
-Well written storytelling
If so, Losing Francesca should be next on your TBR list. Also, if you ever read “The Face on the Milk Carton” this book reminded me slightly of that, but in a more grown up, NA setting, and more modern.
In short, I loved this book.
December 13, 2013
I didn't think any book boyfriend could outdo JA Huss's Ronin, but Brody Mason has done it. Wow. This is one book that will stay with me for a long, long time. I had finished the last Rook and Ronin book and was looking to read another JA Huss story. Though this one was not as steamy as her other books, it definitely delivered on a more emotional level, as both Francesa and Brody are dealing with a complex and beautifully tragic, love story. I think everyone should read this. I dare you not to fall in love with these characters.
June 17, 2013
This. Was. Great!!!!! It was amazing! I loved it!
Full review to come soon.
Full review to come soon.
July 12, 2013
Losing Francesca is about a girl who may or may not be who she believes herself to be. But it's also about the journey she takes to find out who she really is - not literally, as in what her true name is, but who she is in her heart. It's also about the damage done when people experience profound loss. How it affects them and the ways in which they cope.
Rather than spending her last summer before college enjoying herself, Francesca finds herself spending it with a family who insists she's their long long daughter/sister. Although she has no memory of them, Francesca, whom they call Fiona, finds herself able to settle in quickly as the Sullivans provide her with things she's never had and never wanted.
Brody Mason is the town bad boy. He's also known since he was a little boy that Fiona Sullivan is his soulmate. He was destroyed when Fiona went missing. He spent years looking for her in the woods between their homes. And when he gave up hope, he so so angry. He spent many years staying in trouble. Now that Fiona is back, and he wholeheartedly believes Francesca is Fiona, he's not letting her go.
As I mentioned, I went into Losing Francesca thinking I knew what the story was about. I thought it was about unraveling the mystery of who Francesca is. And it is to a certain extent. But this story is just as much Brody's as it is Francesca/Fiona's. The story is told in a dual POV, both Fiona's and Brody's. This format adds so much depth to the story. Getting glimpses inside both Fiona and Brody's heads allowed me to feel what they were feeling as they discovered things about themselves and their lives.
Brody was the real shocker for me. The depth of emotion this young man feels and conveys is incredible. I cried with him, ranted with him, laughed with him and loved with him. I felt all his emotions just as strongly as he did. The confusion Francesca/Fiona feels over loving the man she considers her father but wanting the life the Sullivans and Brody offer - it's mindboggling. But watching her figure out what she wants for herself, for her life, even as these startling revelations about her life were made, was something to behold.
Along with Francesca/Fiona and Brody, I also enjoyed the other characters populating this story. Sean, Fiona's brother, was adamant in his belief that Francesca is his sister. His protectiveness of her was so touching. Frank Sullivan, Fiona's adoptive father, was a pleasure getting to know. To see the hope he's always held that his daughter would return to him is astounding. Learning about the man who raised Francesca, too, was illuminating.
Obviously, Losing Francesca evoked some intense emotions from me. And that's the hallmark of a fantastic book in my opinion. Ms. Huss continues to rise in my esteem. I don't think I've done justice to the story in my review. It's a very powerful book. So I'll just say read Losing Francesca NOW! You won't be disappointed.
Rather than spending her last summer before college enjoying herself, Francesca finds herself spending it with a family who insists she's their long long daughter/sister. Although she has no memory of them, Francesca, whom they call Fiona, finds herself able to settle in quickly as the Sullivans provide her with things she's never had and never wanted.
Brody Mason is the town bad boy. He's also known since he was a little boy that Fiona Sullivan is his soulmate. He was destroyed when Fiona went missing. He spent years looking for her in the woods between their homes. And when he gave up hope, he so so angry. He spent many years staying in trouble. Now that Fiona is back, and he wholeheartedly believes Francesca is Fiona, he's not letting her go.
As I mentioned, I went into Losing Francesca thinking I knew what the story was about. I thought it was about unraveling the mystery of who Francesca is. And it is to a certain extent. But this story is just as much Brody's as it is Francesca/Fiona's. The story is told in a dual POV, both Fiona's and Brody's. This format adds so much depth to the story. Getting glimpses inside both Fiona and Brody's heads allowed me to feel what they were feeling as they discovered things about themselves and their lives.
Brody was the real shocker for me. The depth of emotion this young man feels and conveys is incredible. I cried with him, ranted with him, laughed with him and loved with him. I felt all his emotions just as strongly as he did. The confusion Francesca/Fiona feels over loving the man she considers her father but wanting the life the Sullivans and Brody offer - it's mindboggling. But watching her figure out what she wants for herself, for her life, even as these startling revelations about her life were made, was something to behold.
Along with Francesca/Fiona and Brody, I also enjoyed the other characters populating this story. Sean, Fiona's brother, was adamant in his belief that Francesca is his sister. His protectiveness of her was so touching. Frank Sullivan, Fiona's adoptive father, was a pleasure getting to know. To see the hope he's always held that his daughter would return to him is astounding. Learning about the man who raised Francesca, too, was illuminating.
Obviously, Losing Francesca evoked some intense emotions from me. And that's the hallmark of a fantastic book in my opinion. Ms. Huss continues to rise in my esteem. I don't think I've done justice to the story in my review. It's a very powerful book. So I'll just say read Losing Francesca NOW! You won't be disappointed.
April 12, 2014
First off I am a huge fan of JA Huss and her Rook and Ronin series. Through her Facebook group I became familiar with this other book she wrote that isn't getting the attention it deserves. Losing Francesca is a straight out long lost love story. There isn't gratuitous sex on every other page, there aren't any tattooed MMA fighters or bikers either. What there is, is a story of a boy who after wishing for twelve long years, finally gets his girl back and the mess of problems she came home with.
Fiona Sullivan isn't who everybody thinks she is, but is not a legal adult for seven more weeks, so she is at the hands of the FBI and American government. Fiona is sent back to live with the Sullivan's, the family that adopted her as an infant. Twelve years ago the family was on a trip to Italy when Fiona and her mother disappeared. Now the government has stumbled upon Fiona and sent her back to Ohio where they think she belongs.
Brody Mason has loved Fiona Sullivan for as long as he could remember. They were neighbors and best friends before Fiona never came back from her vacation. Brody spent years pining for Fiona and taking his aggravation out on others. He hasn't had the most charmed life and now he works at his auto shop while taking care of his younger brothers Case and Park (love these names!).
Fiona Sullivan isn't taking to the Sullivan family as they had hoped. Frank, her adoptive father knows this is the daughter he lost so long ago, but Fiona won't accept that fact. She is belligerent and not interested in the Sullivan's way of life, coming across as a spoiled brat to the other kids. Brody, Frank and Sean, Fiona's brother have waited this long for her safe return, they decide to let her to things her way until she is comfortable.
As the days go by, Fiona decides it will be easier to get along with everybody until she can go to her real home, rather than constantly fight. She starts to help around the farm and talk more openly with the other kids, Frank and Brody Mason. She likes Brody, but can't say that she is his Fiona for sure. More and more stories come out about the past and the abduction that finally makes Fiona wonder who she really is.
The thing I like most about JA Huss's writing style is that she brings you to the brink of madness with mystery, secrets and wondering if the story will have a happily ever after. At 80% I started to go into panic mode thinking this was a cliffhanger or will feel unfinished, but I was wrong, WAY wrong. There is so much going on with this poor Fiona, it's a wonder she knows which way is up.
I really liked this book and thought it was a nice change of pace from what I have been reading lately. Give Losing Francesca a chance, you won't be sorry you did.
Fiona Sullivan isn't who everybody thinks she is, but is not a legal adult for seven more weeks, so she is at the hands of the FBI and American government. Fiona is sent back to live with the Sullivan's, the family that adopted her as an infant. Twelve years ago the family was on a trip to Italy when Fiona and her mother disappeared. Now the government has stumbled upon Fiona and sent her back to Ohio where they think she belongs.
Brody Mason has loved Fiona Sullivan for as long as he could remember. They were neighbors and best friends before Fiona never came back from her vacation. Brody spent years pining for Fiona and taking his aggravation out on others. He hasn't had the most charmed life and now he works at his auto shop while taking care of his younger brothers Case and Park (love these names!).
Fiona Sullivan isn't taking to the Sullivan family as they had hoped. Frank, her adoptive father knows this is the daughter he lost so long ago, but Fiona won't accept that fact. She is belligerent and not interested in the Sullivan's way of life, coming across as a spoiled brat to the other kids. Brody, Frank and Sean, Fiona's brother have waited this long for her safe return, they decide to let her to things her way until she is comfortable.
As the days go by, Fiona decides it will be easier to get along with everybody until she can go to her real home, rather than constantly fight. She starts to help around the farm and talk more openly with the other kids, Frank and Brody Mason. She likes Brody, but can't say that she is his Fiona for sure. More and more stories come out about the past and the abduction that finally makes Fiona wonder who she really is.
The thing I like most about JA Huss's writing style is that she brings you to the brink of madness with mystery, secrets and wondering if the story will have a happily ever after. At 80% I started to go into panic mode thinking this was a cliffhanger or will feel unfinished, but I was wrong, WAY wrong. There is so much going on with this poor Fiona, it's a wonder she knows which way is up.
I really liked this book and thought it was a nice change of pace from what I have been reading lately. Give Losing Francesca a chance, you won't be sorry you did.
July 16, 2013
I would definitely recommend diving into Losing Francesca.
Swimming through Losing Francesca by J.A. Huss I encountered a beautiful story that explored losing and gaining, arguments and love.
Losing Francesca is a satisfying story of one girl’s search for her identity. Her identity is broad. Is she beloved daughter of a mysterious malignant man or a foster daughter of a horse loving man?
When I backstroked through this story, I used my master swimming skills and discovered the basic truth. The grand reveal explored a heartbreaking story. I enjoyed exploring the mystery of Fiona and Francesca.
The whole story is one reigning in waters that tide over ones head that results in worry and waters that leave a smooth comfort. It encounters tough decisions from both the present and the past. These decisions leave some people in the deep end. It reflects the truth that what a person wants will not leave everyone in happiness. But Francesca and Brody made the best choice they could see. So did Francesca’s father.
I grew to like each character. Especially Sean. Fiona’s foster brother who cares about Francesca. He is a great older brother who is humorous at times and tenacious. At first, I wish Fiona were tougher. If she were braver she would have fixed her conflict a lot quicker. But I’m glad, instead, Huss choose to allow Fiona grow on her own to be brave enough to choose to live her life on her own devices. My favorite attribute of Francesca is her adorable ideas like the feet pictures.
Originally published at Unforgettable Books
July 22, 2013
Source: eARC for Honest Review from Author
So again this book had loads of potential but felt like some areas for forced but not enough to deter me as I was waiting to find out the whole way through. Is she or isn't she?
Great concept and Brody and his undying love is great.
For Francesca she is caught in a lie that she didn't even know that she was a part of.
For Brody and the Sullivan's they knew the truth the minute they met her but 12 years and being fed lies can screw with a person especially when they are only still a teenager.
Loved the unconditional love of the Sullivan's, especially Sean as well as Brody. (*sigh* what a sweetheart)
Sweet and intriguing concept with a good balance of love, family and mystery.
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So again this book had loads of potential but felt like some areas for forced but not enough to deter me as I was waiting to find out the whole way through. Is she or isn't she?
Great concept and Brody and his undying love is great.
For Francesca she is caught in a lie that she didn't even know that she was a part of.
For Brody and the Sullivan's they knew the truth the minute they met her but 12 years and being fed lies can screw with a person especially when they are only still a teenager.
Loved the unconditional love of the Sullivan's, especially Sean as well as Brody. (*sigh* what a sweetheart)
Sweet and intriguing concept with a good balance of love, family and mystery.
For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe
Like us on Facebook Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Follow along with Twitter Live Read and Breathe Twitter
September 9, 2013
2.5 stars
The ending was not believable at all, the characters weren't developped enough but I was not really disappointed because I didn't expect much from the book.
Well, it was not a book for me I guess ...
The ending was not believable at all, the characters weren't developped enough but I was not really disappointed because I didn't expect much from the book.
Well, it was not a book for me I guess ...
July 12, 2013
This book kept me guessing, the love in the story was so sweet and innocent, so real. I highly recommend this book.
September 14, 2015
I really liked this one. It was cute and sappy and it made me tear up a bit because Brody was just so sweet.
November 6, 2021
I read this book years ago. I have no clue how I managed to either forget to write a review, or managed to delete it somehow. But anyway, I loved Fee and Brody’s story. I say their story because it’s just as much Brody’s as it is Francesca’s. Or is she Fiona?
Brody has spent the last 12 years searching for his best friend, Fiona. Even from a young age, he knew she was his soulmate. So imagine his devastation when she goes on vacation with her family and goes missing. Even after everyone gives up, he never loses faith that one day, he’ll find her. And that day finally happens, when the FBI brings a girl that looks just like his Fiona back to her family’s home. Only she swears she is not Fiona, her name is Francesca and she already has a family.
What follows is a twisted story only Julie can tell about a girl who has had a whole lot of different names but has no idea who she truly is. And a boy who just wants to love her, and give her that fruit roll-up he’s been saving since her first day of kindergarten.
Prepare for a wild ride that is classic JA Huss!
Brody has spent the last 12 years searching for his best friend, Fiona. Even from a young age, he knew she was his soulmate. So imagine his devastation when she goes on vacation with her family and goes missing. Even after everyone gives up, he never loses faith that one day, he’ll find her. And that day finally happens, when the FBI brings a girl that looks just like his Fiona back to her family’s home. Only she swears she is not Fiona, her name is Francesca and she already has a family.
What follows is a twisted story only Julie can tell about a girl who has had a whole lot of different names but has no idea who she truly is. And a boy who just wants to love her, and give her that fruit roll-up he’s been saving since her first day of kindergarten.
Prepare for a wild ride that is classic JA Huss!
May 29, 2021
The blurb sounded so interesting after reading it I couldn’t wait to get started on this book. The start did confuse me a little, just trying to get my head around what was happening at that time, but in no time at all I was pulled along Francesca’s journey and couldn’t put the book down.
There was a rollercoaster of emotions with both Francesca and Brody, my heart broke for these characters at times. Although I had a suspicion and guessed at what happened to Francesca, just reading about it was very emotional and I felt that through her character and what she found out.
I was a little disappointed at the end (the epilogue especially) as I felt that it kind of rushed by, like it was over before I knew what had happened to these characters at the end with some unanswered questions as well. But other than that, and overall, I really enjoyed and loved this read.
4.5 stars
There was a rollercoaster of emotions with both Francesca and Brody, my heart broke for these characters at times. Although I had a suspicion and guessed at what happened to Francesca, just reading about it was very emotional and I felt that through her character and what she found out.
I was a little disappointed at the end (the epilogue especially) as I felt that it kind of rushed by, like it was over before I knew what had happened to these characters at the end with some unanswered questions as well. But other than that, and overall, I really enjoyed and loved this read.
4.5 stars
December 8, 2013
http://readingandwritingurbanfantasy....
4 stars
At A Glance
This book was so amazing. I was giddy with how much I liked it...then that cheesy ending happened.
The Good
This borders so close to 4 stars because really I loved the story and characters so much. You know what? F**k it! I'm changing the rating from 3.5 stars to 4. Despite my annoynces I mentioned in the bad, I can't deny my excitement over reading this book from cover to cover.
This book is like a mindf**k to the extreme. Everyone around Francesca is saying she IS the missing Fiona but Francesca KNOWS she's not. It's was so confusing but exciting. We get small hints of her possibly being Fiona, but we also get hints of her being Francesca. We are kept in the dark just as much as the characters. The mystery was so freakin' fun. I had my guesses and came pretty close to the truth but it was far more complicated than I could have ever imagined.
Francesca was such a brat in the beginning, and who could blame her? She is taken away from everything she knows and forced to live with people she doesn't know. She rebels the best she can against her foster family and I thought it all was pretty funny. But watching Fiona's family trying to convince Francesca that she is Fiona was heartbreaking. They have been devastated since Fiona's disappearance. What else are they suppose to think when this Francesca looks exactly like their daughter all grown up? As Francesca starts to get more comfortable with her new surroundings, she starts to see that her supposed real family are actually great people. I love how she developed relationships with all of them, especially her supposed foster brother, Sean.
But the real story is Francesca and Brody. Brody remembers the girl he fell in love with when they were children. When she was taken, he was devastated. But when Francesca comes home as a supposed older Fiona, he knows in his heart that Francesca is Fiona. Now it's up to him to convince her. Brody was such an amazing guy. He's considerate, funny, charming, and loving. He was on Francesca's side no matter what. His dedication to her was heartwarming. I could see Francesca starting to love her new life because Brody was in it. But that also brought up why her other life was so bad. I was dying to know. Because she makes it obvious she has another family that she loves but is also a little afraid of. What?? Why?? Is Francesca really Fiona? When we finally get answers, it was like fireworks, rollercoaster rides, and face punches all in one.
Huss is an amazing writer who can spin a story like no other. I've loved every book from her so far. The twists, the surprises, the danger, it was all so exciting. I was happy to see a strong sense of family and love throughout the novel. The dialogue was amazing and the pacing was perfect.
The Bad
I was in love with this story in the beginning but some things happened that had me chopping some stars. First the whole Brody has loved Francesca/Fiona since they were tiny kids (4 and 6 years old). He keeps saying he knew then that they were meant for each other and would be married one day. Really? REALLY? Come on! It was such a silly concept and I didn't buy it one bit. Why? Because what damn 6 year old boy thinks about MARRIAGE? Yeah, this deserves at least a half star deduction.
Then things were going smoothly again until the ending. It was the cheesiest cheese-fest ever. And not only was it filled with cheese, it was unbelievable. As in no way would things EVER go down that smoothly if we are to believe these characters Huss created are real people in a real situation. Things just don't happen that way. I wish I could say more but I would give too much of the story away. So that knocked off another half a star. I almost did a whole star but just couldn't do it.
The Snuggly
After getting over the fact that Brody was pretty much in love with Francesca since she was in the freaking womb, I did love them together. They were so cute it's not even real. It's obvious they are good for one another because they brought out the best in each other.
This is a very YA book when it comes to sexual content. We get great sexual tension and a whole Bella and Edward vibe with Francesca wanting to have sex but Brody holding back, but no sex scenes.
Final Thoughts
I loved the characters and the story was pretty amazing. Definitely a unique premise. I've read Huss's Rook and Ronin series and loved those books, so it's obvious Huss is a great writer. And despite my whining over the ending and stuff, I would actually highly recommend this book to pretty much everyone. Very recommended.
Quotes
“Yeah, well, I've always been her boyfriend. She just didn't know it. This girl is my one. And she's always been the one.”
Because Fiona Sullivan is my soulmate. I knew it from the first time we played together. . . . . I remember looking at her when she was four years old and I was six, thinking to myself, I love that girl. That is the girl I will marry.
"Reality becomes blurred, secrets are revealed, and life will never be the same when the final questions are answered: Is she Francesca or Fiona? And where does she really belong?"
"I want to savor every moment, every first, and then when that first time is over, I want to wallow in the after-effects and enjoy the second time around just as much."
"I think I could love you."
"I think you already do."
*Free book from author for honest Review*
4 stars
At A Glance
This book was so amazing. I was giddy with how much I liked it...then that cheesy ending happened.
The Good
This borders so close to 4 stars because really I loved the story and characters so much. You know what? F**k it! I'm changing the rating from 3.5 stars to 4. Despite my annoynces I mentioned in the bad, I can't deny my excitement over reading this book from cover to cover.
This book is like a mindf**k to the extreme. Everyone around Francesca is saying she IS the missing Fiona but Francesca KNOWS she's not. It's was so confusing but exciting. We get small hints of her possibly being Fiona, but we also get hints of her being Francesca. We are kept in the dark just as much as the characters. The mystery was so freakin' fun. I had my guesses and came pretty close to the truth but it was far more complicated than I could have ever imagined.
Francesca was such a brat in the beginning, and who could blame her? She is taken away from everything she knows and forced to live with people she doesn't know. She rebels the best she can against her foster family and I thought it all was pretty funny. But watching Fiona's family trying to convince Francesca that she is Fiona was heartbreaking. They have been devastated since Fiona's disappearance. What else are they suppose to think when this Francesca looks exactly like their daughter all grown up? As Francesca starts to get more comfortable with her new surroundings, she starts to see that her supposed real family are actually great people. I love how she developed relationships with all of them, especially her supposed foster brother, Sean.
But the real story is Francesca and Brody. Brody remembers the girl he fell in love with when they were children. When she was taken, he was devastated. But when Francesca comes home as a supposed older Fiona, he knows in his heart that Francesca is Fiona. Now it's up to him to convince her. Brody was such an amazing guy. He's considerate, funny, charming, and loving. He was on Francesca's side no matter what. His dedication to her was heartwarming. I could see Francesca starting to love her new life because Brody was in it. But that also brought up why her other life was so bad. I was dying to know. Because she makes it obvious she has another family that she loves but is also a little afraid of. What?? Why?? Is Francesca really Fiona? When we finally get answers, it was like fireworks, rollercoaster rides, and face punches all in one.
Huss is an amazing writer who can spin a story like no other. I've loved every book from her so far. The twists, the surprises, the danger, it was all so exciting. I was happy to see a strong sense of family and love throughout the novel. The dialogue was amazing and the pacing was perfect.
The Bad
I was in love with this story in the beginning but some things happened that had me chopping some stars. First the whole Brody has loved Francesca/Fiona since they were tiny kids (4 and 6 years old). He keeps saying he knew then that they were meant for each other and would be married one day. Really? REALLY? Come on! It was such a silly concept and I didn't buy it one bit. Why? Because what damn 6 year old boy thinks about MARRIAGE? Yeah, this deserves at least a half star deduction.
Then things were going smoothly again until the ending. It was the cheesiest cheese-fest ever. And not only was it filled with cheese, it was unbelievable. As in no way would things EVER go down that smoothly if we are to believe these characters Huss created are real people in a real situation. Things just don't happen that way. I wish I could say more but I would give too much of the story away. So that knocked off another half a star. I almost did a whole star but just couldn't do it.
The Snuggly
After getting over the fact that Brody was pretty much in love with Francesca since she was in the freaking womb, I did love them together. They were so cute it's not even real. It's obvious they are good for one another because they brought out the best in each other.
This is a very YA book when it comes to sexual content. We get great sexual tension and a whole Bella and Edward vibe with Francesca wanting to have sex but Brody holding back, but no sex scenes.
Final Thoughts
I loved the characters and the story was pretty amazing. Definitely a unique premise. I've read Huss's Rook and Ronin series and loved those books, so it's obvious Huss is a great writer. And despite my whining over the ending and stuff, I would actually highly recommend this book to pretty much everyone. Very recommended.
Quotes
“Yeah, well, I've always been her boyfriend. She just didn't know it. This girl is my one. And she's always been the one.”
Because Fiona Sullivan is my soulmate. I knew it from the first time we played together. . . . . I remember looking at her when she was four years old and I was six, thinking to myself, I love that girl. That is the girl I will marry.
"Reality becomes blurred, secrets are revealed, and life will never be the same when the final questions are answered: Is she Francesca or Fiona? And where does she really belong?"
"I want to savor every moment, every first, and then when that first time is over, I want to wallow in the after-effects and enjoy the second time around just as much."
"I think I could love you."
"I think you already do."
*Free book from author for honest Review*
July 23, 2018
This is a completely different story by one of my favourite authors J.A Huss. I have had this in my tbr for years and finally decided to put my kindle down and read some paperbacks. I was not disappointed, it’s a great story. A bit of a mystery with a young love story thrown in. Francesca/Fiona is a young girl, who’s life has been unusual to say the least, hidden away until one fateful day. Brody Mason, the town bad boy was such a dreamy character. But underneath he was just heartbroken and angry. I really enjoyed this and would definitely recommend it for anyone who likes YA.
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