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A Woman Lost #1
A Woman Lost
Elizabeth “Lizzie” Petrie has it all. She’s rich, beautiful, intelligent, and successful. None of this matters to her mom. Les-Bi-An. That’s all her mom sees.
Even though Lizzie insists her mom’s antagonism does not bother her, Lizzie distances herself from her entire family. When her brother, Peter, calls her out of the blue to announce he’s getting married, Lizzie’s entire life changes drastically. Peter’s fiancée wants to bring the lesbian outcast back into the family. Will this desire cause Lizzie to lose everything dear to her?
Sarah, Lizzie’s girlfriend, is ecstatic about this change in Lizzie’s personal life. Sarah, the hopeless romantic, wants it all, including settling down with the fiercely independent Lizzie.
Can Lizzie be tamed? And can she survive her family and all of their secrets?
Even though Lizzie insists her mom’s antagonism does not bother her, Lizzie distances herself from her entire family. When her brother, Peter, calls her out of the blue to announce he’s getting married, Lizzie’s entire life changes drastically. Peter’s fiancée wants to bring the lesbian outcast back into the family. Will this desire cause Lizzie to lose everything dear to her?
Sarah, Lizzie’s girlfriend, is ecstatic about this change in Lizzie’s personal life. Sarah, the hopeless romantic, wants it all, including settling down with the fiercely independent Lizzie.
Can Lizzie be tamed? And can she survive her family and all of their secrets?
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 8, 2013
133 people are currently reading
2353 people want to read
About the author
T.B. Markinson
70 books1,152 followersT. B. Markinson is an American writer, living in England. When she isn't writing, she’s traveling the world, watching sports on the telly, visiting pubs in England, or taking the dog for a walk. Not necessarily in that order.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
January 5, 2015
Ever encounter a person who lies so much they believe their own lies? Lizzie is one of those type of people. Lizzie has grown up with aloof and cold parents while under the constant competition of her perfect brother. After striving to be perfect in everything, Lizzie has overlooked the most important aspect of life: love. Love is the one thing Lizzie is imperfect in. Consequently, Lizzie is dating a hopeless romantic, Sarah, who can be easily appeased by a pretty amethyst and a dinner in. Getting off easy all the time Lizzie commits one of relationship's greatest sins: taking the other for granted.
Maddie, a tell it like it is type of girl, becomes engaged to Lizzie's pompous and phony brother. Lizzie immediately becomes enamored with Maddie and her whole life perspective changes. Maddie is full of life, gorgeous, and fierce. Will Lizzie let go of her high-school like crush and settle down with Sarah or sabotage everyone's plans of happiness?
My reaction to this book definitely puzzled me. For one I didn't relate to any of the characters yet I found Lizzie's point of view hilarious, intriguing, and at times endearing. I'm not sure what drew me into her character but I couldn't get enough! Maybe it was the portrayal of such a realistic character that even though we didn't see eye to eye I was willing to try and view her life from her perspective. Also, I liked that the author included references that are "with the times" and the characters had good fashion sense and at one scene the book Fifty Shades of Grey was mentioned!(Not positively I might add-but hey not everyone's shot of tequila)
Even though I enjoyed the characters and story the climax wasn't what I was hoping for. The whole book flirted with scandal, betrayal, and oblivion but the climax was pretty PG-13 to me. However, after reading the ending I understand the author's choice in the character's actions. What this book teaches us is important and should not be forgotten: respect and cherish those who love you, take no one for granted, and friendship is the greatest gift of all.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance as this was one of the best lesbian contemporary books I've read. Based on the synopsis of the author's next novel I absolutely cannot wait to read her next hit!
Maddie, a tell it like it is type of girl, becomes engaged to Lizzie's pompous and phony brother. Lizzie immediately becomes enamored with Maddie and her whole life perspective changes. Maddie is full of life, gorgeous, and fierce. Will Lizzie let go of her high-school like crush and settle down with Sarah or sabotage everyone's plans of happiness?
My reaction to this book definitely puzzled me. For one I didn't relate to any of the characters yet I found Lizzie's point of view hilarious, intriguing, and at times endearing. I'm not sure what drew me into her character but I couldn't get enough! Maybe it was the portrayal of such a realistic character that even though we didn't see eye to eye I was willing to try and view her life from her perspective. Also, I liked that the author included references that are "with the times" and the characters had good fashion sense and at one scene the book Fifty Shades of Grey was mentioned!(Not positively I might add-but hey not everyone's shot of tequila)
Even though I enjoyed the characters and story the climax wasn't what I was hoping for. The whole book flirted with scandal, betrayal, and oblivion but the climax was pretty PG-13 to me. However, after reading the ending I understand the author's choice in the character's actions. What this book teaches us is important and should not be forgotten: respect and cherish those who love you, take no one for granted, and friendship is the greatest gift of all.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance as this was one of the best lesbian contemporary books I've read. Based on the synopsis of the author's next novel I absolutely cannot wait to read her next hit!
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February 4, 2021DNF! DNF! DNF! And will never finish this one.
Elizabeth (Lizzie) Petrie is not flawed or funny, she is just plain disgusting and horrible. She is lusting after her brother's fiancée, Maddie; she is pushing away and leading on her very loving, understanding, trusting and romantic girlfriend, Sarah, at the same time; she is trying to and wanting to cheat Sarah; she makes a pass at Maddie; she lies to Sarah throughout; she only stops pursuing Maddie when Maddie slaps (physically) rejection in her face when she makes a pass at her; she decides she wants Sarah back in her life only after Maddie rejects her and Lizzie seems to be scared of being alone (so not exactly for love); she makes zero effort to get Sarah (whom she has hurt terribly all through their relationship and especially in the end) back or make amends. And yes, she seems to be emotionally leeching off her best friend, Ethan.
We are so utterly repulsed by Lizzie that we can’t bring ourselves to give it any sort of star rating…a first for us.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Elizabeth (Lizzie) Petrie is not flawed or funny, she is just plain disgusting and horrible. She is lusting after her brother's fiancée, Maddie; she is pushing away and leading on her very loving, understanding, trusting and romantic girlfriend, Sarah, at the same time; she is trying to and wanting to cheat Sarah; she makes a pass at Maddie; she lies to Sarah throughout; she only stops pursuing Maddie when Maddie slaps (physically) rejection in her face when she makes a pass at her; she decides she wants Sarah back in her life only after Maddie rejects her and Lizzie seems to be scared of being alone (so not exactly for love); she makes zero effort to get Sarah (whom she has hurt terribly all through their relationship and especially in the end) back or make amends. And yes, she seems to be emotionally leeching off her best friend, Ethan.
We are so utterly repulsed by Lizzie that we can’t bring ourselves to give it any sort of star rating…a first for us.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
May 14, 2018
Wow! This book is something else. It’s incredibly angst-ridden and raw. I don’t think I have ever read a book so real before… honestly. At times I felt uncomfortable at Lizzie’s thoughts and then angry for her follow through but thank god the next book was readily available because I would have been left hanging out on a ledge if not for book #2. The last four chapters made this book. Lizzie really found herself and found who she wanted to become. The realisation was bordering on ground breaking and it made me really warm to Lizzie in a way I hadn’t for the book before and most of this book. Bring on book #2!
4 stars
4 stars
January 2, 2018
This is not the classical romance, where you fall in love with both main characters. It’s written in Lizzies POV, and she is the character I didn’t fell in love. She is very self-absorbed and only thinking about herself. But during the book, you learn a lot about why Lizzy is, how she is. And this makes this story interesting.
Sometimes you really want to slap some sense in her. She can act like a petulant child and she don’t think about, what her actions are meaning to other persons. She is lying to everybody first of all to herself. And she has to learn it the hard way, that you sometimes only appreciate something, when you have lost it. When it comes to love, she is absolutely clueless. So she learns a lot about herself and what influence her family had on her. She has to find out how to love and trust other people and herself.
On the other side, Sarah was blind of love, she does not notice anything, what was going on in Lizzies mind. She didn’t felt any of Lizzies troubles.
For me the story was a little bit pulled out till Lizzy had the courage to change her life, at times I was getting angry at her. And I couldn’t feel the chemistry between Lizzy and Sarah, there were no sparks. But what I liked very much, was, that it wasn’t rushed to a happily-ever-after end. There is a positive ending, and in spite of everything annoying of Lizzy, I’m interested in knowing, how they will continue in their relationship
My rating 3,5 stars
Sometimes you really want to slap some sense in her. She can act like a petulant child and she don’t think about, what her actions are meaning to other persons. She is lying to everybody first of all to herself. And she has to learn it the hard way, that you sometimes only appreciate something, when you have lost it. When it comes to love, she is absolutely clueless. So she learns a lot about herself and what influence her family had on her. She has to find out how to love and trust other people and herself.
On the other side, Sarah was blind of love, she does not notice anything, what was going on in Lizzies mind. She didn’t felt any of Lizzies troubles.
For me the story was a little bit pulled out till Lizzy had the courage to change her life, at times I was getting angry at her. And I couldn’t feel the chemistry between Lizzy and Sarah, there were no sparks. But what I liked very much, was, that it wasn’t rushed to a happily-ever-after end. There is a positive ending, and in spite of everything annoying of Lizzy, I’m interested in knowing, how they will continue in their relationship
My rating 3,5 stars
May 4, 2014
This book is an excellent read about a woman in her 20's trying to figure out what she wants for her life. I found it so good I couldn't put it down, and had it read in two days. While I both loved and hated the main character, she shows us what is important in life through her mistakes. It is that time in one's life when we are still growing, and often afraid of commitments, wanting to achieve our goals, and not having a full grasp yet of what is truly important. I believe that it is often through our mistakes that we truly grow in life, discover the value of others, and who we really are. A great read!
April 9, 2022
Do you know a person who is so self involved and an amazing liar that they believe their own grandeur? Lizzie is one of those. I think I understand where the author wanted to take this story. Talk about complicated upbringing and self loathing, but the way it’s done is such a miss for me.
I really dislike Lizzie, I can’t stand her. Everything is about her, she is extremely self involved. I just can’t wrap my head around it. It’s not like this is a bad book, is well-written, there is character development, it just isn’t for me. That’s mostly because of our main character. This is the start of a series and I won’t be picking up any other books in the series. The best part of this book was the cat and that’s a late addition that we only glimpse so yeah…
I really dislike Lizzie, I can’t stand her. Everything is about her, she is extremely self involved. I just can’t wrap my head around it. It’s not like this is a bad book, is well-written, there is character development, it just isn’t for me. That’s mostly because of our main character. This is the start of a series and I won’t be picking up any other books in the series. The best part of this book was the cat and that’s a late addition that we only glimpse so yeah…
July 11, 2013
Lizzie has it all – a promising career ahead of her in a field she loves, a trust fund to carry her through the rough patches until her career is solidified, and a gorgeous girlfriend who adores her. She should be happy and ready to take the next step in her relationship, but she’s not. Coming from a totally dysfunctional family where she has never been accepted or loved, she has developed an acute fear of making any commitments but is unaware of this fear except subconsciously, which has made her become totally self-absorbed as a means of self-protection. One lie follows another in her day to day life as she tries to cope and figure out what she really wants.
The day she meets her brother’s fiancé, Maddie, becomes the starting point for a journey of self-discovery, a journey that takes her to the brink of losing everything and everyone she loves. The question is, will she be able to pull herself back from the brink and discover what truly matters to her or will she end up alone with only regrets as company?
T.B. Markinson is a fellow blogger who I consider a very good friend, and when I heard that she was writing her first novel I automatically expressed interest in reading it. She wasn’t sure if I would change my mind once I discovered the genre, as I am a heterosexual with a husband and children. However, to me we are all the same inside, and it doesn’t matter what religion we follow, what colour our skin is, or what our sexual orientation is. We all go through the same experiences in life: love and loss, hope and fear, success and failure, and most of us experience some periods of pain, loss, and confusion in our lives before we realize what we truly want in life. So, I assured her that I wanted to read her debut into the literary world, and I can honestly tell you that I could not put this book down. The writing style was very engaging, the plot was captivating right from the first page, and each and every character was unique and interesting in both negative and positive ways. I knew I had begun to think of them all as family and care about what happened to Lizzie when I wanted to shove my hand right into the book and slap her for not seeing what was right in front of her – someone who loved her for who she was. I anxiously turned the pages wanting to see where her journey would lead her, and I must admit that I was surprised a few times along the way.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read an uplifting story that reminds us all of what really matters most in life.
The day she meets her brother’s fiancé, Maddie, becomes the starting point for a journey of self-discovery, a journey that takes her to the brink of losing everything and everyone she loves. The question is, will she be able to pull herself back from the brink and discover what truly matters to her or will she end up alone with only regrets as company?
T.B. Markinson is a fellow blogger who I consider a very good friend, and when I heard that she was writing her first novel I automatically expressed interest in reading it. She wasn’t sure if I would change my mind once I discovered the genre, as I am a heterosexual with a husband and children. However, to me we are all the same inside, and it doesn’t matter what religion we follow, what colour our skin is, or what our sexual orientation is. We all go through the same experiences in life: love and loss, hope and fear, success and failure, and most of us experience some periods of pain, loss, and confusion in our lives before we realize what we truly want in life. So, I assured her that I wanted to read her debut into the literary world, and I can honestly tell you that I could not put this book down. The writing style was very engaging, the plot was captivating right from the first page, and each and every character was unique and interesting in both negative and positive ways. I knew I had begun to think of them all as family and care about what happened to Lizzie when I wanted to shove my hand right into the book and slap her for not seeing what was right in front of her – someone who loved her for who she was. I anxiously turned the pages wanting to see where her journey would lead her, and I must admit that I was surprised a few times along the way.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read an uplifting story that reminds us all of what really matters most in life.
May 25, 2014
Elizabeth is a scholar who throws herself into her studies and her work because she’s socially and romantically awkward. After growing up in a harsh, cold family environment, she doesn’t know how to express herself. Since she’s a lesbian, her mother is particularly nasty towards her.
Then Maddie steps in. She’s the fiancée of Elizabeth’s brother, Peter. Maddie is beautiful, friendly, warm, and charismatic. She wants to pull Elizabeth and her family closer together, as difficult as that is. Maddie's presence sets things in motion. Elizabeth will have to face many new and challenging feelings and situations.
It was interesting seeing Elizabeth’s emotional growth. Maddie and Elizabeth’s girlfriend, Sarah, are fantastic characters. Elizabeth’s horrible relatives are great antagonists—I loved it when Elizabeth and her friends were able to battle them. This is a highly enjoyable book. By the end of the novel, I didn’t want to part ways with the well-drawn characters.
Then Maddie steps in. She’s the fiancée of Elizabeth’s brother, Peter. Maddie is beautiful, friendly, warm, and charismatic. She wants to pull Elizabeth and her family closer together, as difficult as that is. Maddie's presence sets things in motion. Elizabeth will have to face many new and challenging feelings and situations.
It was interesting seeing Elizabeth’s emotional growth. Maddie and Elizabeth’s girlfriend, Sarah, are fantastic characters. Elizabeth’s horrible relatives are great antagonists—I loved it when Elizabeth and her friends were able to battle them. This is a highly enjoyable book. By the end of the novel, I didn’t want to part ways with the well-drawn characters.
September 8, 2021
*Trigger warning for emotional infidelity*
This was an interesting read. I enjoyed that it was much different from my normal romance reads. The MCs are in a relationship from the beginning (there is a prequel), the story is told from Lizzie’s POV, and Lizzie isn’t really a like-able character. She’s a self-absorbed commitment fearing person. Which is addressed throughout the book. Her partner Sarah is loving and sweet so it’s hard to understand why Lizzie can’t just get over herself. Lizzie ends up falling for her brothers fiancé and starts lying to Sarah (this is where the emotional cheating comes in). I’ll just stop there so the whole story doesn’t get spoiled.
The writing is great, I’d read more by Markinson. Not sure if I will continue with this series because I didn’t feel connected to the MCs. But if you’re looking for something that doesn’t follow the traditional “romance recipe” I’d recommend this one.
This was an interesting read. I enjoyed that it was much different from my normal romance reads. The MCs are in a relationship from the beginning (there is a prequel), the story is told from Lizzie’s POV, and Lizzie isn’t really a like-able character. She’s a self-absorbed commitment fearing person. Which is addressed throughout the book. Her partner Sarah is loving and sweet so it’s hard to understand why Lizzie can’t just get over herself. Lizzie ends up falling for her brothers fiancé and starts lying to Sarah (this is where the emotional cheating comes in). I’ll just stop there so the whole story doesn’t get spoiled.
The writing is great, I’d read more by Markinson. Not sure if I will continue with this series because I didn’t feel connected to the MCs. But if you’re looking for something that doesn’t follow the traditional “romance recipe” I’d recommend this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2015
Fantastic book! I couldn't put it down!
March 24, 2023
Lovely.
January 15, 2014
I really enjoyed this book about a woman searching for herself and looking in all the wrong places! Afraid of relationships, self-absorbed, hurt by the world's worst family, trying to become a physically stronger person after fighting & winning against an illness, Lizzie tries to be the poster child for independent women! However, all her past has buried inside the feeling she really doesn't deserve love or compassion or understanding. And, so. she does stupid things and almost loses the person who truly loves her, and who Lizzie is too blind to see holds her joy. Ms Markinson creates believable characters, vibrant scenes, and a well-developed plot then adds lots of humor & wit. Read this book and you'll want to read more of her work!
August 19, 2013
Good debut novel.. I was a little surprised by the ending. Thought it would go a different direction. I would recommend this story.
January 15, 2020
I loved this story because it is almost as written about me. what the main character thinks and does, is exactly how I behave sonetimes. funny how early random book can reflect someone so precisely.
August 20, 2020
It’s difficult to rate this one because if I think about Lizzie I’d give it 3 stars but if I think about the author I’d give it 4. I know, it’s 3,5 but Goodreads won’t let me.
I don’t like Lizzie and I think it’s the first time that has happened to me but then I couldn’t put the book down because I needed to know how it ended and how the author was gonna save one of the less alluring characters I have ever encountered. The crazy fact is that she, someway, accomplishes it and now I wanna read the second book to see what the heck Lizzie does because she is troubled. Goddesses, she is. And I don’t know why Sarah would even bother but....and here comes the best part about the book, love is not perfect and falling in love doesn’t mean you chose well or that your partner is gonna be perfect and I think that’s the best message.
I love romances, I love happy endings but, let’s be honest, everything can’t be unicorns and stickers and the fact someone writes about it deserves a good score.
So I’m gonna give it 4 stars and keep reading.
I don’t like Lizzie and I think it’s the first time that has happened to me but then I couldn’t put the book down because I needed to know how it ended and how the author was gonna save one of the less alluring characters I have ever encountered. The crazy fact is that she, someway, accomplishes it and now I wanna read the second book to see what the heck Lizzie does because she is troubled. Goddesses, she is. And I don’t know why Sarah would even bother but....and here comes the best part about the book, love is not perfect and falling in love doesn’t mean you chose well or that your partner is gonna be perfect and I think that’s the best message.
I love romances, I love happy endings but, let’s be honest, everything can’t be unicorns and stickers and the fact someone writes about it deserves a good score.
So I’m gonna give it 4 stars and keep reading.
April 20, 2014
When a highly educated, brilliant young woman becomes emotionally paralyzed at a young age by her dysfunctional family, she discovers that even avoiding them cannot help her break down the walls she has constructed to protect her heart. Lizzie should be feeling on top of the world, she has a bright academic and career-oriented future, an almost endless trust fund and a beautiful, loyal and loving partner in Sarah, who wants nothing more than to marry Lizzie and spend the rest of their lives together. So why is she so afraid of committing to Sarah, to a relationship? Why is she so filled with doubt? Enter her brother’s fiancée, who sparks something in Lizzie akin to love, lust, and the pull of the thrill of the unknown. Meanwhile, Sarah is dropping hints about taking their year old relationship of unspoken commitment into the realm of marriage. Guilt-ridden at hurting Sarah by her lack of commitment, Lizzie bends over backward to gift her with significant symbols that may be leading her on.
Is Lizzie’s apparent inability to commit part of her self-absorbed nature or the painful lesson she learned as a child? Could it be that Sarah is not right for her? A terrible mistake made in a weak moment brings Lizzie’s world crashing down as she confesses her mistake to Sarah, who promptly moves out and leaves Lizzie behind to re-evaluate her life, her needs and her desires.
A Woman Lost by T. B. Markinson is a painful tale of learning to give, take chances and trust in your heart, not to dwell of the failures of others in the past. This universal lesson knows no boundaries, it is exactly what it is…a lesson in life. T. B. Markinson has poured her creative genius into this powerful and inspiring story by coloring her characters in high definition. Lizzie is not unique, she is a portrait of thousands of people who fear commitment. Sarah is a warm and devoted lover, whose inner strength lies in hope and loyalty, while looking on the bright side. Maddie, the future sister-in-law is a breath of sunshine in a family of storm clouds who believes in living life in the moment and doing what is right for you, not what others expect from you, yet holding one accountable for their actions. Even Lizzie’ male best friend is vital to this tale with his own issues that mirror Lizzie’s in so many ways.
Beautifully written, T. B. Markinson proves she has a gift that needs to be recognized. She has a strong voice that deserves more attention from the literary world.
I received a copy from T. B. Markinson in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: January 9, 2014
Publisher: T. B. Markinson
ISBN: 1493758810
Genre: Adult Fiction/Romance
Print Length: 266 pages
Available from: Amazon
Is Lizzie’s apparent inability to commit part of her self-absorbed nature or the painful lesson she learned as a child? Could it be that Sarah is not right for her? A terrible mistake made in a weak moment brings Lizzie’s world crashing down as she confesses her mistake to Sarah, who promptly moves out and leaves Lizzie behind to re-evaluate her life, her needs and her desires.
A Woman Lost by T. B. Markinson is a painful tale of learning to give, take chances and trust in your heart, not to dwell of the failures of others in the past. This universal lesson knows no boundaries, it is exactly what it is…a lesson in life. T. B. Markinson has poured her creative genius into this powerful and inspiring story by coloring her characters in high definition. Lizzie is not unique, she is a portrait of thousands of people who fear commitment. Sarah is a warm and devoted lover, whose inner strength lies in hope and loyalty, while looking on the bright side. Maddie, the future sister-in-law is a breath of sunshine in a family of storm clouds who believes in living life in the moment and doing what is right for you, not what others expect from you, yet holding one accountable for their actions. Even Lizzie’ male best friend is vital to this tale with his own issues that mirror Lizzie’s in so many ways.
Beautifully written, T. B. Markinson proves she has a gift that needs to be recognized. She has a strong voice that deserves more attention from the literary world.
I received a copy from T. B. Markinson in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: January 9, 2014
Publisher: T. B. Markinson
ISBN: 1493758810
Genre: Adult Fiction/Romance
Print Length: 266 pages
Available from: Amazon
August 15, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a honest review from the F/F Romance group's thread at this link, when it was the BOTM (Book of the Month) for June. I was very late reading and posting my review here and on Amazon.com, terribly sorry T.B. Markinson for the delay.
For me Lizzie's character most strongly brought to mind echos of the old Indiana Jones films (or the Lara Croft games), in that she is both someone who loves history, who seems well off in society and who also has a bad relationship with her family. IT is Lizzie's history with her family that makes her lost when it comes to matters of love.
She really doesn't seem to understand what it means to be a friend or to love another person and live your life with them beside you. She knows what lust is, but when it comes to her own family and to her life outside her work (which she also loves) she is pretty blind.
Yet she is perceptive and brilliant in her own way - her humor throughout makes that clear, she strives to meet the challenges she sets for herself, to overcome her feelings of rejection from her family, and to be better than most have the drive for. Yet her flaws are as glaring as her good qualities.
If Lizzie comes off as a good and redeemable lover and friend it's only through the efforts of the other three characters - Sarah - who knows what she wants but doesn't know what Lizzie does, and her love for Lizzie really is blinding. I really wanted the story to, in the end, be fair to her - and A Woman Lost manages that and gives us hope that all is not lost for Sarah and Lizzie.
Ethan, who's complicated marriage and love life are fascinating, everyone should be so lucky to have a friend like him. I think he sees flaws - especially his own - too well to be happy easily so he needs Lizzie in his life as much as Lizzie needs him. Without him in the story I'm afraid I would have disliked Lizzie a lot more than I ended up sympathizing with her. I would have liked to have met his wife and seen where he lived and met the baby (maybe that's for the sequel?).
And, Maddie, who is beautiful but does not in the end, submit to what the Petrie family would do to her beauty, a beauty and goodness that is both outside and out.
A happy ever after this is not, a happy for now this could be - and in the end that's what we all should strive for, because you don't know what tomorrow brings.
For me Lizzie's character most strongly brought to mind echos of the old Indiana Jones films (or the Lara Croft games), in that she is both someone who loves history, who seems well off in society and who also has a bad relationship with her family. IT is Lizzie's history with her family that makes her lost when it comes to matters of love.
She really doesn't seem to understand what it means to be a friend or to love another person and live your life with them beside you. She knows what lust is, but when it comes to her own family and to her life outside her work (which she also loves) she is pretty blind.
Yet she is perceptive and brilliant in her own way - her humor throughout makes that clear, she strives to meet the challenges she sets for herself, to overcome her feelings of rejection from her family, and to be better than most have the drive for. Yet her flaws are as glaring as her good qualities.
If Lizzie comes off as a good and redeemable lover and friend it's only through the efforts of the other three characters - Sarah - who knows what she wants but doesn't know what Lizzie does, and her love for Lizzie really is blinding. I really wanted the story to, in the end, be fair to her - and A Woman Lost manages that and gives us hope that all is not lost for Sarah and Lizzie.
Ethan, who's complicated marriage and love life are fascinating, everyone should be so lucky to have a friend like him. I think he sees flaws - especially his own - too well to be happy easily so he needs Lizzie in his life as much as Lizzie needs him. Without him in the story I'm afraid I would have disliked Lizzie a lot more than I ended up sympathizing with her. I would have liked to have met his wife and seen where he lived and met the baby (maybe that's for the sequel?).
And, Maddie, who is beautiful but does not in the end, submit to what the Petrie family would do to her beauty, a beauty and goodness that is both outside and out.
A happy ever after this is not, a happy for now this could be - and in the end that's what we all should strive for, because you don't know what tomorrow brings.
September 24, 2013
Copy received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I have to say that I was very conflicted while reading much of this book. Most of this stemmed from the fact that, while the book is titled "A Woman Lost", I would have proposed the alternate title of "Woman Behaving Like Jerk". Until about halfway through the story, I found it very difficult to like the protagonist, Lizzie. Her behavior seemed very...male to me. Probably a very unfair characterization and definitely a stereotype. Not to mention not very p.c. I promised an honest review though, and that's what was going through my head. As I got to know Lizzie and Sarah and Maddie and Lizzie's truly awful family however, I started to think that this is probably how someone who grew up in that environment would act. And that's when it struck me...wow, T.B. Markinson has done a great job at creating some very real characters in this book. Well developed, 3 dimensional people with flaws. While this book was not full of fiery action scenes, drama and angst, it was full of real life with all its real life mistakes and bad decisions. Enough real life to keep my interest throughout. To be honest, I wasn't sure how I'd feel reading the erotic portions of the book - I read a lot of erotica, but this is my first purely f/f read. I'll just say I was pleasantly surprised...and even aroused...well done T.B.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention the exceptional quality of the editing of this book. I've become very picky about which indie publications I read lately, having experienced so many poorly structured books full of spelling and grammatical errors. For me, there's no excuse for this - don't call yourself a writer if you can't compose a decent sentence! Or at least have the sense to call upon someone with the necessary skills to proofread your work. This is creative writing 101! OK...rant done...that feels better. Needless to say, Ms. Markinson's work was practically error-free. Honestly, I don't think I even found a typo (and I often find those in the big publishers' books).
4 solid stars, and a thank-you to the author for allowing me to read and review her work. I'll be looking for more from her for sure!
I have to say that I was very conflicted while reading much of this book. Most of this stemmed from the fact that, while the book is titled "A Woman Lost", I would have proposed the alternate title of "Woman Behaving Like Jerk". Until about halfway through the story, I found it very difficult to like the protagonist, Lizzie. Her behavior seemed very...male to me. Probably a very unfair characterization and definitely a stereotype. Not to mention not very p.c. I promised an honest review though, and that's what was going through my head. As I got to know Lizzie and Sarah and Maddie and Lizzie's truly awful family however, I started to think that this is probably how someone who grew up in that environment would act. And that's when it struck me...wow, T.B. Markinson has done a great job at creating some very real characters in this book. Well developed, 3 dimensional people with flaws. While this book was not full of fiery action scenes, drama and angst, it was full of real life with all its real life mistakes and bad decisions. Enough real life to keep my interest throughout. To be honest, I wasn't sure how I'd feel reading the erotic portions of the book - I read a lot of erotica, but this is my first purely f/f read. I'll just say I was pleasantly surprised...and even aroused...well done T.B.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention the exceptional quality of the editing of this book. I've become very picky about which indie publications I read lately, having experienced so many poorly structured books full of spelling and grammatical errors. For me, there's no excuse for this - don't call yourself a writer if you can't compose a decent sentence! Or at least have the sense to call upon someone with the necessary skills to proofread your work. This is creative writing 101! OK...rant done...that feels better. Needless to say, Ms. Markinson's work was practically error-free. Honestly, I don't think I even found a typo (and I often find those in the big publishers' books).
4 solid stars, and a thank-you to the author for allowing me to read and review her work. I'll be looking for more from her for sure!
August 8, 2013
A Woman Lost is a beautifully written story about Lizzie, a woman afraid to commit and take the next step in a relationship with her girlfriend. As the story unfolds, we begin to understand the real reasons behind Lizzie’s behavior. Her upbringing, her relationship with her family, and even concealing her disease has made her wary of settling down. Who could blame her, especially after you get to meet her brother and parents. Let’s just say, they’re not nice people, and it’s hard to believe Lizzie turned out as nice as she has. Sure, she's a bit standoffish and cold at first, but it fits her situation perfectly.
And that old saying about lessons learnt the hard way applies here. That’s exactly what Lizzie needs to wake up to herself and acknowledge the great things she already has in her life. It takes her future sister-in-law, who brightens every room she walks into, to force change.
This is a powerful and inspiring story about relationships and trust and not being afraid to face your fears. Markinson did an amazing job with her debut book. She drew me into the story and keeping me there until the very last page.
And that old saying about lessons learnt the hard way applies here. That’s exactly what Lizzie needs to wake up to herself and acknowledge the great things she already has in her life. It takes her future sister-in-law, who brightens every room she walks into, to force change.
This is a powerful and inspiring story about relationships and trust and not being afraid to face your fears. Markinson did an amazing job with her debut book. She drew me into the story and keeping me there until the very last page.
April 28, 2015
Well, that's what I get for not writing the review the minute I finish reading a book. I have to take a moment away from the other books I'm reading to remember this one. Deep breath. Taking a moment. ...
Let me start with how much I identified with the main character. No. I am not rich. My parents and brothers weren't like Elizabeth “Lizzie” Petrie's. But the cluelessness of what others feel. That's where I relate. I could tell that others related to it too; the passages of highlighted passages were the ones I might have highlighted myself if I weren't in such a hurry to see what happens next. Is she going to get the girl or live her life alone regretting that she didn't see how she caused the break-up.
This was a contemporary story. T.B. Markinson wrote a believable tale in that the reader can feel themselves in the shoes of the characters, smell the trees, see the chipmucks of the Colorado area scampering in the areas Lizzie lives and camps in.
I loved this book so much that I made sure I had book two ready to go when I finished. I can't wait to see what happens to Liz next.
Let me start with how much I identified with the main character. No. I am not rich. My parents and brothers weren't like Elizabeth “Lizzie” Petrie's. But the cluelessness of what others feel. That's where I relate. I could tell that others related to it too; the passages of highlighted passages were the ones I might have highlighted myself if I weren't in such a hurry to see what happens next. Is she going to get the girl or live her life alone regretting that she didn't see how she caused the break-up.
This was a contemporary story. T.B. Markinson wrote a believable tale in that the reader can feel themselves in the shoes of the characters, smell the trees, see the chipmucks of the Colorado area scampering in the areas Lizzie lives and camps in.
I loved this book so much that I made sure I had book two ready to go when I finished. I can't wait to see what happens to Liz next.
May 1, 2017
Lizzie has spent her life trying to get away from her family. Her father ignores everyone, her brother thinks he's gods' gift, and her mother is an emotionally-abusive bitch better known as the 'Scotch Lady'. Add in the fact that Lizzie is gay (Les-Bi-An) and it seems she can do nothing right. Burying herself in her studies, Lizzie thinks she's finally broken free...until her brother calls with the news that he's getting married. Apart from trying to figure how to keep her girlfriend, Sarah, away from the wedding, Lizzie doesn't think much about it. Until she meets the bride-to-be, Maddie.
I loved this. It's a great story of how Lizzie has coped with her family by seeing them and everything else as nothing more then a series of challenges to conquer or endure until something else comes along, and the problems of applying that approach to your lovelife. The characters were relatable, even to the point where I wanted to slap some sense into them or at the very least, sit them down for a good talking-to, but at the same time I wanted it to work out for them.
I loved this. It's a great story of how Lizzie has coped with her family by seeing them and everything else as nothing more then a series of challenges to conquer or endure until something else comes along, and the problems of applying that approach to your lovelife. The characters were relatable, even to the point where I wanted to slap some sense into them or at the very least, sit them down for a good talking-to, but at the same time I wanted it to work out for them.
January 15, 2020
Who am I? Do you know who I am? If you know who I am, I will be and do what you need/want. As a result, I am not being true to myself and therefore I tell fibs all the time. Elizabeth (Lizzie) Petrie, has a confidence issue and as a result, she presents herself as an unlikable person to this reader. Sarah, is Elizabeth's girlfriend. She is sweet and appears to take at face value whatever Lizzie tells her. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to various characters. Two in particular caught my attention. Maddie who is engaged to Lizzie's brother. Maddie's interaction with Lizzie provides the most interesting yet frustrating part of the read. Lizzie's good friend Ethan provides a functional/dysfunction relationship that had me shaking my head and going oh my. In general, this read is challenging because of the unlikability of Lizzie. Yet, the read is interesting because there are people who are just like her. Trying to find their place in the world.
September 6, 2014
I was like "What the hell woman!?" every time Elizabeth Petrie sabotages herself/does something stupid.
Lizzie knows who she is but is so utterly clueless about of what she really needs, wants, and deserves when it comes to matters of the heart. Her fears and pessimism blinds her so much that she tries to rationalise her actions as something she only does to appease Sarah and not some romantic gesture because she isn't like that. She has a knack of selling herself short when it comes to the "relationship" department.
Lizzie's thick skull needed Maddie's iron hand (just reading about this made me feel good.. SLAP!), Ethan's words, and Hank's feline tantrums to see what was right in front of her. Could it be too late??
Anyway, there are some laugh out loud moments and parts that makes me want to do a victory dance for Lizzie, Sarah and Maddie (take that Peter and Scotch-lady!).
Lizzie knows who she is but is so utterly clueless about of what she really needs, wants, and deserves when it comes to matters of the heart. Her fears and pessimism blinds her so much that she tries to rationalise her actions as something she only does to appease Sarah and not some romantic gesture because she isn't like that. She has a knack of selling herself short when it comes to the "relationship" department.
Lizzie's thick skull needed Maddie's iron hand (just reading about this made me feel good.. SLAP!), Ethan's words, and Hank's feline tantrums to see what was right in front of her. Could it be too late??
Anyway, there are some laugh out loud moments and parts that makes me want to do a victory dance for Lizzie, Sarah and Maddie (take that Peter and Scotch-lady!).
October 31, 2018
Nunca antes quise abofetear con tantas ganas a una protagonista...
Pero no me vendrás a decir que en algún momento tú no te merecías una bofetada; porque yo no lo niego hay veces en que estaba igual de inepta que Lizzie en esta historia 😂
March 10, 2020
Lizzie really frustrated me in this book. I get that she has commitment issues and her family it toxic, but to take Sarah for granted was painful to listen to. Ethan should have smacked her upside the head. Maddie will be a good friend to have going into the next story.
September 23, 2020
Great enjoyable read.
I empathise so much with Lizzie 'cause she's so lost and clueless, and I love how genuine Sarah and Maddie are. I can't believe Lizzie almost fcuks up her relationship and friendship.
Also, I love the whole leaving Peter at the alter scene. Arsehole deserves it.
I empathise so much with Lizzie 'cause she's so lost and clueless, and I love how genuine Sarah and Maddie are. I can't believe Lizzie almost fcuks up her relationship and friendship.
Also, I love the whole leaving Peter at the alter scene. Arsehole deserves it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2022
I got a digital copy of this book by signing up for the authors newsletter. I didn’t realize (I should have checked), that it is the first novel in a series, that is up to #9 currently available on Kindle Unlimited. Everything is told from the POV of Elizabeth (Lizzie) Petrie. She is teaching at a college in Colorado and working on her doctorate in History. She is a little hard to like but the story is addicting. Lizzie comes from a dysfunctional family and is a trust fund child raised by a nannies. She is self absorbed, but somehow has an amazing girlfriend Sarah, who is a high school english teacher. She has one best friend Ethan who she meets weekly for coffee. In this story you get the feel for how Lizzie’s mind works, her insecurities and workaholism. Her brother’s new fiancé Maddie wants to become friends with Lizzie making her interact with her family which she usually avoids. This book is funny and touching. I wanted to smack Lizzie upside the head a few times but I couldn’t help routing for her. And I’m not sure if she is as much of a friend to Ethan as he is to her. There isn’t a cliff hanger but I was enjoying the ending so much I was glad the next in the series was readily available. (3.5 stars)
Read
February 13, 2020Only got through about 20% of this book and was fed up with the M/C Lezzie, her whole family, and her best friend Nathan. The only two descent characters seemed to be Sarah and Maddie. I did something I hardly ever do and skipped to some later chapters just to see what was happening and was further disgusted by what I read. Decided for me at least this book was a lost cause and not something I wanted to spend my reading time on.
December 1, 2013
This was an incredible book. It was about a couple, Lizzie and Sarah. Very much in love. Or so we are led to believe. (and yes they are lesbians).
This book is written first person perspective by Lizzie (accept for conversations). She does not know how to open up to anyone but her friend Ethan. And even at that Ethan knows when Lizzie is trying to pull the wool over his eyes. Lizzie is a hard working woman, a professor, who is always grading papers and would really prefer to be alone riding her bicycle than doing anything else. She is really clueless. Ethan tries to help her and her perceived problems and real ones. They have coffee almost everyday and discuss their relationships. Ethan does not tell his wife things (he finds all bodily functions gross, including sex, but his wife stays), and Lizzie does not tell Sarah things. Neither of them are cheating. They just have partners that put up with their quirks. And then Maddie comes into the picture.
Maddie is Lizzie's brother's (Peter) girlfriend. They meet all at a dinner. Maddie is very welcoming. She tries hard to impress Peter and Lizzie's parents. Lizzie and Peter's parents are very dysfunctional. He works all the time and Lizzie calls her mother "The Scotch Lady" meaning she is always drunk. Somehow they get through introductions. Maddie feels she has a new sister and is so excited and Lizzie cannot stop thinking of Maddie and how she smells and what she looks like. But if you were Sarah, you would never know something is on Lizzie' mind.
A good portion of the book takes place at the coffee shop where Ethan and Lizzie meet everyday for Ethan's coffee and Lizzie's Chai. Ethan is a good friend who tries to help Lizzie make sense of her feelings for Sarah. Sarah practically lives at Lizzies, which makes Lizzie very nervous. She does not want to be tied down. Then Sarah starts thinking of all kinds of things like getting a house together, even possibly a wedding. Lizzie buys her affection in a way (well sort of in a way she buys her tons of jewelry and takes her to expensive places to eat, on vacation, you name it, Lizzie does know what Sarah likes) because she is so clumsy in a relationship but she knows what Sarah likes. They are really a great couple. Lizzie just cannot see it. And as she is thinking of possibly leaving Sarah, she turns around and buys her an amethyst ring that Sarah wears on her ring finger that Maddie and Ethan have to point out, she is engaged. Lizzie is clueless.
Lizzie becomes friends with Maddie. But she is also attracted to her which makes a lot of lunches and some dinners very difficult for Lizzie. Maddie is just as sweet as can be but always wants to talk about Lizzie and Sarah and not her and Peter. Peter works a lot, just like his dad. So Maddie keeps busy by hanging out with Lizzie and Sarah and a lot of time doing her own thing.
So what is the thing? Does Lizzie tell Maddie how she feels? Does Lizzie keep stringing Sarah along when she knows she is not fully committed? And what about Maddie? What about her and Peter? And does Maddie have feelings for Lizzie? So many questions. And you will get your answers.
Among all the questions and dysfunction in the families is Lizzie. She is just trying to find herself and it takes a pretty big journey and a big step to do that. People are trying all through the story to tell her what her problems are but she is in her own world of books and teaching and being a loner.
What is wonderful is the journey she makes, and how she gets there. And who helps her. Because this is really a fabulous story but, and I never read love stories, it is one. At least I felt it was one. And it was so well done. There was not to much sex for those of you who are worried about that. Certainly no reading for anyone under 18. But the love Lizzie and Sarah share make the love scenes very sweet and a little erotic. Maybe a lot erotic you have to judge. But the sex is part of the relationship and it is beautifully described and it is felt deeply. The connection Lizzie and Sarah have is beautiful and romantic. So what is Lizzie's problem? Beautiful girlfriend, smart (a teacher also), funny, buys Lizzie lots of things because she loves her. For example Lizzie is not very style conscious so Sarah shops for her all the time. So what is the deal?
The character development was great as well as the unfolding of the story. There were a lot of surprises.
This is really a story I truly loved and at the end I took a big sigh. I will not tell you if it was a sad sigh or a sigh of relief. You will have to figure that out.
I liked that this book had three strong woman characters. Lizzie, Sarah, and Maddie (Or Elizabeth, Sarah, and Madeline). I love your general kick-ass female characters but it takes a really good writer to come up with an emotionally strong character. And one that thinks for herself. Female characters that you can look up to because they are not only beautiful, but smart, and funny, and witty, and emotionally in check.
I cannot wait to read another book by this author. She has a fan for life!
This book is written first person perspective by Lizzie (accept for conversations). She does not know how to open up to anyone but her friend Ethan. And even at that Ethan knows when Lizzie is trying to pull the wool over his eyes. Lizzie is a hard working woman, a professor, who is always grading papers and would really prefer to be alone riding her bicycle than doing anything else. She is really clueless. Ethan tries to help her and her perceived problems and real ones. They have coffee almost everyday and discuss their relationships. Ethan does not tell his wife things (he finds all bodily functions gross, including sex, but his wife stays), and Lizzie does not tell Sarah things. Neither of them are cheating. They just have partners that put up with their quirks. And then Maddie comes into the picture.
Maddie is Lizzie's brother's (Peter) girlfriend. They meet all at a dinner. Maddie is very welcoming. She tries hard to impress Peter and Lizzie's parents. Lizzie and Peter's parents are very dysfunctional. He works all the time and Lizzie calls her mother "The Scotch Lady" meaning she is always drunk. Somehow they get through introductions. Maddie feels she has a new sister and is so excited and Lizzie cannot stop thinking of Maddie and how she smells and what she looks like. But if you were Sarah, you would never know something is on Lizzie' mind.
A good portion of the book takes place at the coffee shop where Ethan and Lizzie meet everyday for Ethan's coffee and Lizzie's Chai. Ethan is a good friend who tries to help Lizzie make sense of her feelings for Sarah. Sarah practically lives at Lizzies, which makes Lizzie very nervous. She does not want to be tied down. Then Sarah starts thinking of all kinds of things like getting a house together, even possibly a wedding. Lizzie buys her affection in a way (well sort of in a way she buys her tons of jewelry and takes her to expensive places to eat, on vacation, you name it, Lizzie does know what Sarah likes) because she is so clumsy in a relationship but she knows what Sarah likes. They are really a great couple. Lizzie just cannot see it. And as she is thinking of possibly leaving Sarah, she turns around and buys her an amethyst ring that Sarah wears on her ring finger that Maddie and Ethan have to point out, she is engaged. Lizzie is clueless.
Lizzie becomes friends with Maddie. But she is also attracted to her which makes a lot of lunches and some dinners very difficult for Lizzie. Maddie is just as sweet as can be but always wants to talk about Lizzie and Sarah and not her and Peter. Peter works a lot, just like his dad. So Maddie keeps busy by hanging out with Lizzie and Sarah and a lot of time doing her own thing.
So what is the thing? Does Lizzie tell Maddie how she feels? Does Lizzie keep stringing Sarah along when she knows she is not fully committed? And what about Maddie? What about her and Peter? And does Maddie have feelings for Lizzie? So many questions. And you will get your answers.
Among all the questions and dysfunction in the families is Lizzie. She is just trying to find herself and it takes a pretty big journey and a big step to do that. People are trying all through the story to tell her what her problems are but she is in her own world of books and teaching and being a loner.
What is wonderful is the journey she makes, and how she gets there. And who helps her. Because this is really a fabulous story but, and I never read love stories, it is one. At least I felt it was one. And it was so well done. There was not to much sex for those of you who are worried about that. Certainly no reading for anyone under 18. But the love Lizzie and Sarah share make the love scenes very sweet and a little erotic. Maybe a lot erotic you have to judge. But the sex is part of the relationship and it is beautifully described and it is felt deeply. The connection Lizzie and Sarah have is beautiful and romantic. So what is Lizzie's problem? Beautiful girlfriend, smart (a teacher also), funny, buys Lizzie lots of things because she loves her. For example Lizzie is not very style conscious so Sarah shops for her all the time. So what is the deal?
The character development was great as well as the unfolding of the story. There were a lot of surprises.
This is really a story I truly loved and at the end I took a big sigh. I will not tell you if it was a sad sigh or a sigh of relief. You will have to figure that out.
I liked that this book had three strong woman characters. Lizzie, Sarah, and Maddie (Or Elizabeth, Sarah, and Madeline). I love your general kick-ass female characters but it takes a really good writer to come up with an emotionally strong character. And one that thinks for herself. Female characters that you can look up to because they are not only beautiful, but smart, and funny, and witty, and emotionally in check.
I cannot wait to read another book by this author. She has a fan for life!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2013
I have the joy of being a blogger and in the blogosphere there are many wonderful people who write from their heart. I first "met" T B Markinson through her blog and was immediately impressed by her ability as both a photographer and a writer and always look forward to her posts whether they be photographs, book reviews or detailed accounts of where she has traveled. Imagine my joy when i found out that she had written a book ! I immediately messaged her and asked to join in with those who got to read her debut novel and I was thrilled when the gift of a free copy showed up in my inbox.
To say that I could not put this book down would not be far from the truth at all. I started reading it on a flight from Minneapolis to Salt Lake City and finished half in that short flight. I was sucked in from the first page and wanted to know more about the characters that she so ably brings to life. For me a good book is one that is realistic and engaging and "A Woman Lost" fulfilled both of those criteria. The main characters are real---they are believable and as in real life they have real life stories. At times I wanted to reach into my Kindle and try to shake some sense into a couple of the characters because it was obvious to me what they needed to do . To say that I was engaged with the characters is an understatement.
I finished the book relaxing in the beauty of Jackson, Wyoming which seemed so appropriate as some of the novel is set there. The characters were all unique and personable and it was easy to like the "good ones" and not trust the "bad ones". How often have I read a book that just falls short in that area? Often and I was so happy that "A Woman Lost" did not fall into that category.
Another thing that I have to highlight is that the editing of this book was outstanding. I have read other debut novels where typos and poor sentence structure just ruined the entire book for me. Not so with Ms. Markinson's book. It flowed and transitioned easily and was really a joy to read.
When I started the novel I had no idea what the subject matter was---I had done no reading ahead of time on it and I am very glad that I had not done any prior research as I was so pleasantly surprised when I did read it. Life can sometimes be messy. In this novel T B Markinson very accurately portrays how messy life can be and how it can all come together when true love prevails. Yes, life can get complicated but there is hope . Hope in this book comes in the form of a relationship that wins out in the end because of self-realization and perseverance. We could all learn a lesson from this.
I am thrilled to have been able to read this book when it was brand new and give my high five to Ms. Markinson on a job really well done. Pick it up---i think you will be pleasantly surprised at the emotions that this novel will evoke in you.
To say that I could not put this book down would not be far from the truth at all. I started reading it on a flight from Minneapolis to Salt Lake City and finished half in that short flight. I was sucked in from the first page and wanted to know more about the characters that she so ably brings to life. For me a good book is one that is realistic and engaging and "A Woman Lost" fulfilled both of those criteria. The main characters are real---they are believable and as in real life they have real life stories. At times I wanted to reach into my Kindle and try to shake some sense into a couple of the characters because it was obvious to me what they needed to do . To say that I was engaged with the characters is an understatement.
I finished the book relaxing in the beauty of Jackson, Wyoming which seemed so appropriate as some of the novel is set there. The characters were all unique and personable and it was easy to like the "good ones" and not trust the "bad ones". How often have I read a book that just falls short in that area? Often and I was so happy that "A Woman Lost" did not fall into that category.
Another thing that I have to highlight is that the editing of this book was outstanding. I have read other debut novels where typos and poor sentence structure just ruined the entire book for me. Not so with Ms. Markinson's book. It flowed and transitioned easily and was really a joy to read.
When I started the novel I had no idea what the subject matter was---I had done no reading ahead of time on it and I am very glad that I had not done any prior research as I was so pleasantly surprised when I did read it. Life can sometimes be messy. In this novel T B Markinson very accurately portrays how messy life can be and how it can all come together when true love prevails. Yes, life can get complicated but there is hope . Hope in this book comes in the form of a relationship that wins out in the end because of self-realization and perseverance. We could all learn a lesson from this.
I am thrilled to have been able to read this book when it was brand new and give my high five to Ms. Markinson on a job really well done. Pick it up---i think you will be pleasantly surprised at the emotions that this novel will evoke in you.
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