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Lost & Found #1
Finding Molly Parsons
Faith Parsons is finally 18 and eager to make her lesbian debut. But before stepping into this new chapter, she must escape the only world she's ever known. Faith's journey is not just a physical escape but a courageous leap into self-discovery, navigating uncharted territories with a heart full of hope. Guided by fate on a journey to find her long-lost Aunt Molly—the Parsons family’s sapphic secret—Faith is driven by a deep desire to break free from her toxic past and find a new familial embrace.
As Faith unravels a series of cryptic clues, she meets Carmen, a steamy self-made woman with a penchant for avoiding commitment, Mateo, her sequin-covered counterpart, whose life is a perpetual red-carpet event, and Enid Butcher, the cannabis-loving and self-appointed neighborhood watch. This motley crew navigate family, friendship, and love in this uproarious journey to find Molly Parsons.
Full of twists, turns, and spicy encounters, Faith’s story unfolds into a transformative adventure where chosen connections prove to be the enduring magic, and where love always finds a way.
As Faith unravels a series of cryptic clues, she meets Carmen, a steamy self-made woman with a penchant for avoiding commitment, Mateo, her sequin-covered counterpart, whose life is a perpetual red-carpet event, and Enid Butcher, the cannabis-loving and self-appointed neighborhood watch. This motley crew navigate family, friendship, and love in this uproarious journey to find Molly Parsons.
Full of twists, turns, and spicy encounters, Faith’s story unfolds into a transformative adventure where chosen connections prove to be the enduring magic, and where love always finds a way.
473 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2024
51 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
About the author
Alyson Root
23 books227 followersAlyson was born and raised in the heart of England. She moved to Paris in 2015 when she met her wife. Together they moved to the west of France where they now live with their two dogs and pet bird. Alyson spends her time running a small campsite and holiday home. During her off time, she loves to read lesbian romance books, write and Scuba Dive.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 2, 2024
Alyson Root
Finding Molly Parsons (The Lost & Found Series Book 1)
Book 1 of 1: The Lost & Found Series
Faith's journey to find her aunt Molly was not only about escaping her toxic family, but also about discovering her true identity and finding acceptance. Along the way, she encountered Enid, a wise and supportive figure who became an unexpected ally in her search.
Side note ; Bessie and Enid were the life and soul of this story, super sweet and fun. Love you and tell you the truth.
As Faith delved deeper into the mystery of her aunt's disappearance, she uncovered hidden secrets and uncovered the strength within herself. The story beautifully captured the complexities of coming out and the struggles faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in finding love and acceptance.
Through Faith's experiences, the author shed light on the importance of chosen family and the power of unconditional love. The characters in the book, Carmen and Mateo, represented the kind of friendship and support that Faith needed in her life. Together, they formed a bond that surpassed blood ties and proved that family is not defined solely by biology.
This book resonated deeply with me as a queer individual because it portrayed the challenges and triumphs that many of us face in our journeys of self-discovery. It reminded me that even in the midst of rejection and abandonment, there is hope for finding a chosen family who will embrace and celebrate us for who we are.
I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a heartfelt and empowering story. It will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the importance of love, friendship, and finding one's true self. This is a story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, reminding you of the beauty and resilience that can come from embracing your authentic self.
Finding Molly Parsons (The Lost & Found Series Book 1)
Book 1 of 1: The Lost & Found Series
Faith's journey to find her aunt Molly was not only about escaping her toxic family, but also about discovering her true identity and finding acceptance. Along the way, she encountered Enid, a wise and supportive figure who became an unexpected ally in her search.
Side note ; Bessie and Enid were the life and soul of this story, super sweet and fun. Love you and tell you the truth.
As Faith delved deeper into the mystery of her aunt's disappearance, she uncovered hidden secrets and uncovered the strength within herself. The story beautifully captured the complexities of coming out and the struggles faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in finding love and acceptance.
Through Faith's experiences, the author shed light on the importance of chosen family and the power of unconditional love. The characters in the book, Carmen and Mateo, represented the kind of friendship and support that Faith needed in her life. Together, they formed a bond that surpassed blood ties and proved that family is not defined solely by biology.
This book resonated deeply with me as a queer individual because it portrayed the challenges and triumphs that many of us face in our journeys of self-discovery. It reminded me that even in the midst of rejection and abandonment, there is hope for finding a chosen family who will embrace and celebrate us for who we are.
I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a heartfelt and empowering story. It will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the importance of love, friendship, and finding one's true self. This is a story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, reminding you of the beauty and resilience that can come from embracing your authentic self.
August 27, 2025
What an emotional journey.
May 2, 2024
SO MANY EMOTIONS! Oof. This story is heartbreaking and beautiful and I absolutely devoured it. Finding Molly Parsons is in part a story about sapphic romance and first love, but it is so much more than that. It’s about discovering and loving who you are - even (and especially) when the people who are supposed to love you the most reject the most beautiful and truest parts of you. It’s about finding the strength to leave abusive situations, and finding the courage to live authentically and freely and proudly. It’s about finding the people on your path who make your life better, who lift you up and encourage you and offer support and bring joy and light into even the darkest parts of your life. It is heartfelt and moving and packed full of humor. And also filled to the brim with wonderful, unique, perfectly imperfect characters - real characters who are flawed and messy and absolutely beautiful.
Finding Molly Parsons is a story told in multiple POV that follows three main characters - Faith Parsons, Carmen Ruiz, and Molly Parsons. And you get not ONE, but TWO different sapphic romances and all kinds of sapphic pining!
Faith is 18 years old and just ran away from home in search of her long lost aunt, Molly. After growing up in an abusive and extremely religious home, where she was completely sheltered from the outside world aside from one close friend and church, Faith has all the pieces in place to leave and try to start over. And it all centers around finding Molly Parsons.
But the Seattle apartment Faith thought she would find Molly landed her at the doorstep of Carmen and Mateo Ruiz. Carmen and Mateo grew up in foster care on and off together, and siblings by choice. Being queer and having dealt with their own turbulent childhoods, they take Faith in. They help Faith begin to come into herself, and give her the “lesducation” that her sheltered upbringing denied her. And Carmen promises that she will help Faith find Molly. It’s good for Carmen, too. Because Carmen had closed herself off to the world, and having Faith show up on her doorstep just might be the thing that helps her find meaning in her life again. And maybe even…love.
Molly Parsons has been on the move since her brother, Faith’s dad, kicked her out at 17 after they lost their parents and he found out she was gay. She refuses to stay put, or stay in a relationship, because she will settle for nothing and no one less than a person/place that makes her feel safe, like she’s home. So she has moved around the country helping LGBTQ+ youth, never staying in once place for long. Molly’s nomadic lifestyle sends Faith, Carmen, Mateo, and their quirky old neighbor, Enid, on road trips across the country in search of Molly.
I absolutely LOVED Enid. She is sassy and delightful and exactly the kind of quirky grandparent type figure I love to see in queer stories! She is a RIOT and had me literally cackling at times. But she is also just a generally sweet and wholesome person, and quickly becomes part of this beautiful chosen family - that just keeps growing throughout the story.
Finding Molly Parsons was a different kind of story compared to some of Alyson’s other work, but equally funny, heartwarming, and just incredible. It is heavy and intense at times, and if you are an abuse survivor and/or have religious trauma - please read this book with caution because both of those themes are woven into this story throughout. Alyson does a great job of breaking up the intense parts of the story with humor and lighthearted shenanigans without downplaying the seriousness of any of the things these characters have been through. You will laugh and cry and feel all the emotions while reading this book.
I loved this book SO DANG MUCH! I absolutely can’t wait to read book two, Keeping Carmen Ruiz, and find out what happens next in this beautiful story!
I received an advance copy from the author and this is my honest review.
🏳️🌈Rep: Lesbian MCs (three), two sapphic pairings, gay SC, Latine MC & SC, other queer SCs
📝Tropes/Themes: Multiple POVs, Family Relationships, Coming of Age, Chosen/Found Family, Quirky Old Lady, Self Discovery, Road Trip, Humor, First Love, Coming Out
⚠️TW/CW: Sexual Content, Alcohol Use, Drug Use; Themes of/Mentions of: Emotional, Physical, Child, Domestic, and Sexual Abuse, Religious Trauma, Homophobia, Parental Abandonment, Foster Care; Mention of Parental Death
Finding Molly Parsons is a story told in multiple POV that follows three main characters - Faith Parsons, Carmen Ruiz, and Molly Parsons. And you get not ONE, but TWO different sapphic romances and all kinds of sapphic pining!
Faith is 18 years old and just ran away from home in search of her long lost aunt, Molly. After growing up in an abusive and extremely religious home, where she was completely sheltered from the outside world aside from one close friend and church, Faith has all the pieces in place to leave and try to start over. And it all centers around finding Molly Parsons.
But the Seattle apartment Faith thought she would find Molly landed her at the doorstep of Carmen and Mateo Ruiz. Carmen and Mateo grew up in foster care on and off together, and siblings by choice. Being queer and having dealt with their own turbulent childhoods, they take Faith in. They help Faith begin to come into herself, and give her the “lesducation” that her sheltered upbringing denied her. And Carmen promises that she will help Faith find Molly. It’s good for Carmen, too. Because Carmen had closed herself off to the world, and having Faith show up on her doorstep just might be the thing that helps her find meaning in her life again. And maybe even…love.
Molly Parsons has been on the move since her brother, Faith’s dad, kicked her out at 17 after they lost their parents and he found out she was gay. She refuses to stay put, or stay in a relationship, because she will settle for nothing and no one less than a person/place that makes her feel safe, like she’s home. So she has moved around the country helping LGBTQ+ youth, never staying in once place for long. Molly’s nomadic lifestyle sends Faith, Carmen, Mateo, and their quirky old neighbor, Enid, on road trips across the country in search of Molly.
I absolutely LOVED Enid. She is sassy and delightful and exactly the kind of quirky grandparent type figure I love to see in queer stories! She is a RIOT and had me literally cackling at times. But she is also just a generally sweet and wholesome person, and quickly becomes part of this beautiful chosen family - that just keeps growing throughout the story.
Finding Molly Parsons was a different kind of story compared to some of Alyson’s other work, but equally funny, heartwarming, and just incredible. It is heavy and intense at times, and if you are an abuse survivor and/or have religious trauma - please read this book with caution because both of those themes are woven into this story throughout. Alyson does a great job of breaking up the intense parts of the story with humor and lighthearted shenanigans without downplaying the seriousness of any of the things these characters have been through. You will laugh and cry and feel all the emotions while reading this book.
I loved this book SO DANG MUCH! I absolutely can’t wait to read book two, Keeping Carmen Ruiz, and find out what happens next in this beautiful story!
I received an advance copy from the author and this is my honest review.
🏳️🌈Rep: Lesbian MCs (three), two sapphic pairings, gay SC, Latine MC & SC, other queer SCs
📝Tropes/Themes: Multiple POVs, Family Relationships, Coming of Age, Chosen/Found Family, Quirky Old Lady, Self Discovery, Road Trip, Humor, First Love, Coming Out
⚠️TW/CW: Sexual Content, Alcohol Use, Drug Use; Themes of/Mentions of: Emotional, Physical, Child, Domestic, and Sexual Abuse, Religious Trauma, Homophobia, Parental Abandonment, Foster Care; Mention of Parental Death
February 14, 2025
What an amazing story and narration! I am anxious to continue the story as soon as possible!
Finding Molly ended up being such an uplifting journey even with the relatable ups and downs that happened throughout. The support Faith found in her new family of Carmen, Mateo and the awesome nosy neighbor Enid was chef’s kiss. I absolutely adore these characters.
Finding Molly ended up being such an uplifting journey even with the relatable ups and downs that happened throughout. The support Faith found in her new family of Carmen, Mateo and the awesome nosy neighbor Enid was chef’s kiss. I absolutely adore these characters.
May 2, 2024
Finding Molly Parsons is a found family, finding yourself, gorgeous romance with beautiful characters.
Oh how I love this book and the people in it.
The story starts with Faith Parsons an eighteen year old who escapes her family home. Her father is horrible human and rules with his fist. Faith has lived a sheltered life, confined to the house and home schooled. The only time she sees other people is in church or the once a week she is allowed to visit the library. Faith has a plan, find her estranged aunty Molly and find safety away from her parents. She’s known she is gay from an early age, but also knows that if her father ever found out while she is under his roof the consequences would be dire.
Carmen Ruiz has worked hard to ensure her and her brother are safe. Growing up in the system the one thing that kept her going was when she met Mateo. They became inseparable and are each other’s found family. She keeps most people at arms length to ensure that they can’t hurt her. However when a teenager turns up on her doorstep looking lost and vulnerable Cam can’t help but take her in and help. Cam and Mateo nurture Faith, both being gay they understand what she is going through and vow to help reunite her with her aunt Molly.
Molly Parsons is a roamer, she never stays put for long, constantly searching for home. After loosing her parents,and then being disowned at 17 by her brother for being gay, Molly has made it her life’s work to help others like herself. Although the work is fulfilling she is still trying to find that one person or people that make her feel safe.
This book is full of heavy meaningful topics, yet it’s a delightful and feel good read. It coneys the message that it’s ok to be messy, you don’t have to always have it all together and have everything figured out. It’s packed full of humour and colourful characters that made me what to pack up and move to Seattle. These people have been through a lot, but they’ve used those experiences to help others in one form or another. That’s not to say they don’t still struggle, but there is light and happiness to be had with the people that you choose as your family.
There’s road trips 🚗
Two budding romances 💗
An hilarious neighbour 👵
Lots of rainbow goodness 🏳️🌈
First love 💞
Self discovery 🥰
Fashion shows 👗👚
Pride 🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈
And wonderful friendships 👧👦👩👩👵👵
I enjoyed this one so much. It’s the first in a serious, book two is out in June and I can’t wait. 5 stars from me 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Oh how I love this book and the people in it.
The story starts with Faith Parsons an eighteen year old who escapes her family home. Her father is horrible human and rules with his fist. Faith has lived a sheltered life, confined to the house and home schooled. The only time she sees other people is in church or the once a week she is allowed to visit the library. Faith has a plan, find her estranged aunty Molly and find safety away from her parents. She’s known she is gay from an early age, but also knows that if her father ever found out while she is under his roof the consequences would be dire.
Carmen Ruiz has worked hard to ensure her and her brother are safe. Growing up in the system the one thing that kept her going was when she met Mateo. They became inseparable and are each other’s found family. She keeps most people at arms length to ensure that they can’t hurt her. However when a teenager turns up on her doorstep looking lost and vulnerable Cam can’t help but take her in and help. Cam and Mateo nurture Faith, both being gay they understand what she is going through and vow to help reunite her with her aunt Molly.
Molly Parsons is a roamer, she never stays put for long, constantly searching for home. After loosing her parents,and then being disowned at 17 by her brother for being gay, Molly has made it her life’s work to help others like herself. Although the work is fulfilling she is still trying to find that one person or people that make her feel safe.
This book is full of heavy meaningful topics, yet it’s a delightful and feel good read. It coneys the message that it’s ok to be messy, you don’t have to always have it all together and have everything figured out. It’s packed full of humour and colourful characters that made me what to pack up and move to Seattle. These people have been through a lot, but they’ve used those experiences to help others in one form or another. That’s not to say they don’t still struggle, but there is light and happiness to be had with the people that you choose as your family.
There’s road trips 🚗
Two budding romances 💗
An hilarious neighbour 👵
Lots of rainbow goodness 🏳️🌈
First love 💞
Self discovery 🥰
Fashion shows 👗👚
Pride 🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈
And wonderful friendships 👧👦👩👩👵👵
I enjoyed this one so much. It’s the first in a serious, book two is out in June and I can’t wait. 5 stars from me 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 19, 2025
Book Review: Finding Molly Parsons by Alyson Root
Positive first thoughts:
Finding Molly Parsons is a sweet and heartfelt story about self-discovery, found family, and love. I really enjoyed the theme of finding freedom to be who you are — it’s portrayed in a way that feels honest and hopeful. As someone who also treasures her own found family, that part of the story truly resonated with me. The relationship between Carmen and Molly was one of my favorite parts. There’s a lovely tension between them that kept me turning the pages, and I’m genuinely excited to see how their story continues in book two.
What didn’t work as well for me:
While I found the story itself touching, the writing style wasn’t quite to my taste. The characters felt a bit bland and difficult to differentiate from one another, and I missed a sense of emotional depth throughout the story. The trauma both characters went through is mentioned, but it didn’t quite evoke the feelings I hoped for as a reader. Personally, I enjoy books with more descriptive storytelling — details about the surroundings, emotions, and atmosphere that help me fully immerse myself in the world.
The pacing also felt a little too fast, with some time jumps that left gaps in the story. I would have loved to experience the road trip in more detail or feel the frustration when the aunt wasn’t at the houses. As it was, those moments passed quickly and didn’t hit as strongly as they could have.
Still, Finding Molly Parsons is a cute, meaningful read with a kind heart at its center. While it didn’t completely match my personal reading preferences, I can see many readers falling in love with Molly and Carmen’s journey toward freedom and self-acceptance.
Positive first thoughts:
Finding Molly Parsons is a sweet and heartfelt story about self-discovery, found family, and love. I really enjoyed the theme of finding freedom to be who you are — it’s portrayed in a way that feels honest and hopeful. As someone who also treasures her own found family, that part of the story truly resonated with me. The relationship between Carmen and Molly was one of my favorite parts. There’s a lovely tension between them that kept me turning the pages, and I’m genuinely excited to see how their story continues in book two.
What didn’t work as well for me:
While I found the story itself touching, the writing style wasn’t quite to my taste. The characters felt a bit bland and difficult to differentiate from one another, and I missed a sense of emotional depth throughout the story. The trauma both characters went through is mentioned, but it didn’t quite evoke the feelings I hoped for as a reader. Personally, I enjoy books with more descriptive storytelling — details about the surroundings, emotions, and atmosphere that help me fully immerse myself in the world.
The pacing also felt a little too fast, with some time jumps that left gaps in the story. I would have loved to experience the road trip in more detail or feel the frustration when the aunt wasn’t at the houses. As it was, those moments passed quickly and didn’t hit as strongly as they could have.
Still, Finding Molly Parsons is a cute, meaningful read with a kind heart at its center. While it didn’t completely match my personal reading preferences, I can see many readers falling in love with Molly and Carmen’s journey toward freedom and self-acceptance.
June 5, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. I only found it after discovering the second book in the series, so naturally I went to read this one first. It's a beautiful story with deep themes and amazing characters. It is essentially a story about coming out, overcoming trauma, and finding your people. It is essentially a love story, but not only about romantic love. It's about characters working through their issues to reach a place where they know and love themselves.
I definitely recommend this book.
I definitely recommend this book.
November 14, 2024
Finding Molly Parsons
The Lost & Found Series, Book 1
By: Alyson Root
Narrated by: Sadie Provost
Astounding, Timely, Perfection!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 11-14-24
Love is never wrong … the heart wants what the heart wants, and when your heart’s desire is the polar opposite of those who controls your destiny … like Faith’s autocratic father … it’s time to seek out the only one who might understand, the only one you know of whose “been there” … it’s time to set about “Finding Molly Parsons”! Poignant, powerful, and completely authentic in its portrayals, THIS beautifully narrated, timely story NEEDS to be heard, shared and savored! The writing is smooth, engaging, emotional perfection with just the right touches of perfectly placed humor when moment lightening is needed. The characters are brilliantly crafted, well varied, and strikingly REAL! Their continual development as the story plays out is astounding! I can’t reveal the details or “who’s who” without spoiling the story for those yet to listen, but know “their” growth and change is not only poignant and powerful, but in some cases so empowering that this listener had emotional tears flowing, wanting to scream out a very loud, emphatic, “YES”! This is writing that can open dialogues, change minds, change attitudes and really make a difference in our world! The narration was spectacular! All voicing selections were spot on, each perfectly fitting their character and remaining consistently clear throughout. The vocal nuances conveying emotion were subtle and stunning, never overdone! All aspects of this story were performed exquisitely with spectacular timing and flow, completely immersing me in the world of these beautifully brilliant characters! I am certain this story was brought to life exactly as envisioned by the author! I really enjoyed the experience of listening to this story! Five stunning, you have to experience THIS one, stars across all categories!
The Lost & Found Series, Book 1
By: Alyson Root
Narrated by: Sadie Provost
Astounding, Timely, Perfection!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 11-14-24
Love is never wrong … the heart wants what the heart wants, and when your heart’s desire is the polar opposite of those who controls your destiny … like Faith’s autocratic father … it’s time to seek out the only one who might understand, the only one you know of whose “been there” … it’s time to set about “Finding Molly Parsons”! Poignant, powerful, and completely authentic in its portrayals, THIS beautifully narrated, timely story NEEDS to be heard, shared and savored! The writing is smooth, engaging, emotional perfection with just the right touches of perfectly placed humor when moment lightening is needed. The characters are brilliantly crafted, well varied, and strikingly REAL! Their continual development as the story plays out is astounding! I can’t reveal the details or “who’s who” without spoiling the story for those yet to listen, but know “their” growth and change is not only poignant and powerful, but in some cases so empowering that this listener had emotional tears flowing, wanting to scream out a very loud, emphatic, “YES”! This is writing that can open dialogues, change minds, change attitudes and really make a difference in our world! The narration was spectacular! All voicing selections were spot on, each perfectly fitting their character and remaining consistently clear throughout. The vocal nuances conveying emotion were subtle and stunning, never overdone! All aspects of this story were performed exquisitely with spectacular timing and flow, completely immersing me in the world of these beautifully brilliant characters! I am certain this story was brought to life exactly as envisioned by the author! I really enjoyed the experience of listening to this story! Five stunning, you have to experience THIS one, stars across all categories!
January 7, 2025
Here’s the thing: when I first started listening to the audiobook I was a bit iffy about the narration, but it turns out that Finding Molly Parsons was the book I didn’t know I needed, and Sadie Provost was the perfect narrator. The story is ostensibly about a young lesbian named Faith who, on her 18th birthday, flees a restrictive and abusive religious home and goes in search of her long-lost aunt, Molly. Faith begins a journey that will change not only herself, but also the people she encounters along the way.
The book is beautiful. It has all of Alyson Root’s typical humor mixed with serious moments and topics, but the best part isn’t the story, it’s the characters. All of them are so well developed and interesting, and I fell in love with them all. We’ve got Faith with her strength, youthful optimism and southern charm, and the grandmotherly but irreverent next door neighbor Enid, who swoops in with levity and nuggets of wisdom. Carmen Ruiz, a wonderful woman with a locked down heart, and her “brother” Mateo, who is funny and open, met in the foster system years ago and are the perfect found family for Faith. They open their home to her, offering support and going with her on her journey.
Along the way we also get to meet some people who’ve had contact with Molly and learn more about her and her life. She’s moved around a lot since her brother and caretaker, Faith’s father, found out she was a lesbian and kicked her out, working with others who are in the same situation she was. Eventually we get to meet Molly herself, with her lovely southern drawl, heart of gold, and dedication to helping others, who longs to find that person who makes her feel safe and at home.
Now don’t get me wrong, the story itself is nothing to sneeze at. It’s a caring exploration of community and found family. It’s funny and adventurous, while addressing some deep subjects with care. It brings us not just one but two developing sapphic love stories (including some spice), and some side romance. I absolutely adored it and can’t wait for the audiobook of Keeping Carmen Ruiz, book two in the Lost & Found series.
I received a free ALC from the Sapphic Author Collective, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
The book is beautiful. It has all of Alyson Root’s typical humor mixed with serious moments and topics, but the best part isn’t the story, it’s the characters. All of them are so well developed and interesting, and I fell in love with them all. We’ve got Faith with her strength, youthful optimism and southern charm, and the grandmotherly but irreverent next door neighbor Enid, who swoops in with levity and nuggets of wisdom. Carmen Ruiz, a wonderful woman with a locked down heart, and her “brother” Mateo, who is funny and open, met in the foster system years ago and are the perfect found family for Faith. They open their home to her, offering support and going with her on her journey.
Along the way we also get to meet some people who’ve had contact with Molly and learn more about her and her life. She’s moved around a lot since her brother and caretaker, Faith’s father, found out she was a lesbian and kicked her out, working with others who are in the same situation she was. Eventually we get to meet Molly herself, with her lovely southern drawl, heart of gold, and dedication to helping others, who longs to find that person who makes her feel safe and at home.
Now don’t get me wrong, the story itself is nothing to sneeze at. It’s a caring exploration of community and found family. It’s funny and adventurous, while addressing some deep subjects with care. It brings us not just one but two developing sapphic love stories (including some spice), and some side romance. I absolutely adored it and can’t wait for the audiobook of Keeping Carmen Ruiz, book two in the Lost & Found series.
I received a free ALC from the Sapphic Author Collective, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
February 14, 2025
Hit most of the marks
Okay, I loved the story, the plot, the details, the characters, all of it. The only thing I had a hard time with was the dialogue. The adults were fine, but this book heavily featured teens, and their dialogue had them, particularly the main character, sounding like fully emotionally realized 35 year olds with decade of good therapy and NVC training behind them and a well edited script in hand. They sounded more wise and emotionally regulated than the adults, almowt PSA level, right from the beginning.
Which I found odd because the adults spoke much more realistically, and in line with their characters. The adult characters read like the author was trauma informed, but Faith's character did not. Nothing about how she communicated sounded like an isolated, physically and emotionally abused 18 year old girl. She just opens up to complete strangers, concisely and calmly summarizes her traumatic history and story with very little promoting within minutes of meeting them, then proceeds to be a perfectly well adjusted aside from being briefly startled a few times by emotional moments she witnesses adults around her having.
She has her moments where I could see what the author was trying to do with her character but ultimately it did not really land for me.
That said, I enjoyed the rest of the cast so much I will absolutely be reading book two.
Okay, I loved the story, the plot, the details, the characters, all of it. The only thing I had a hard time with was the dialogue. The adults were fine, but this book heavily featured teens, and their dialogue had them, particularly the main character, sounding like fully emotionally realized 35 year olds with decade of good therapy and NVC training behind them and a well edited script in hand. They sounded more wise and emotionally regulated than the adults, almowt PSA level, right from the beginning.
Which I found odd because the adults spoke much more realistically, and in line with their characters. The adult characters read like the author was trauma informed, but Faith's character did not. Nothing about how she communicated sounded like an isolated, physically and emotionally abused 18 year old girl. She just opens up to complete strangers, concisely and calmly summarizes her traumatic history and story with very little promoting within minutes of meeting them, then proceeds to be a perfectly well adjusted aside from being briefly startled a few times by emotional moments she witnesses adults around her having.
She has her moments where I could see what the author was trying to do with her character but ultimately it did not really land for me.
That said, I enjoyed the rest of the cast so much I will absolutely be reading book two.
June 12, 2025
Daringly Seeking Chosen Family!
Alyson Root, I’m so grateful for this story about fabulous women representing three generations! I can’t neglect the runway strutting, Mateo and pizza dude Daniel too! Alyson, it touched my heart feeling the audacity of hope in the face of angst and fear as Faith runs from danger, saving herself even if she’s not sure of where she’ll land. Faith is her own advocate! How many 18-year-olds have the wisdom and fortitude to leap from a fire into the dark unknown? Hell, how many people of any age are good self advocates? Faith seeks family, and finds it, even if it isn’t what she thought it would be. Faith rejects her religious cult upbringing to claim every woman’s right to self pleasure. Faith’s self love blossoms into love of Nathalie and sexual exploration. Alyson, I keep thinking about the juxtaposition of Faith’s enormous growth and Carmen and Molly’s internal struggle. Faith’s story starts out by running but Molly has been running for decades! That just goes to show you how hard it is to run away from yourself! Molly has created her own hard shell and cacooned her heart from possible pain. Alyson, do we all make our own chrysalis of transformation? Maybe so, but cheers mate, I celebrate every love and lover. Starting with ourselves!
Alyson Root, I’m so grateful for this story about fabulous women representing three generations! I can’t neglect the runway strutting, Mateo and pizza dude Daniel too! Alyson, it touched my heart feeling the audacity of hope in the face of angst and fear as Faith runs from danger, saving herself even if she’s not sure of where she’ll land. Faith is her own advocate! How many 18-year-olds have the wisdom and fortitude to leap from a fire into the dark unknown? Hell, how many people of any age are good self advocates? Faith seeks family, and finds it, even if it isn’t what she thought it would be. Faith rejects her religious cult upbringing to claim every woman’s right to self pleasure. Faith’s self love blossoms into love of Nathalie and sexual exploration. Alyson, I keep thinking about the juxtaposition of Faith’s enormous growth and Carmen and Molly’s internal struggle. Faith’s story starts out by running but Molly has been running for decades! That just goes to show you how hard it is to run away from yourself! Molly has created her own hard shell and cacooned her heart from possible pain. Alyson, do we all make our own chrysalis of transformation? Maybe so, but cheers mate, I celebrate every love and lover. Starting with ourselves!
June 10, 2024
First things first…if you’re going to embark on this then be prepared for a ‘To Be Continued’ at the end! I have the sequel (Keeping Carmen Ruiz) so it’s not a problem for me, but it’s probably something to be aware of if you don’t have that (or aren’t on KU).
I like this author’s writing style and she kept things rattling along at a fair old pace as brave baby-gay Faith runs away from home trying to find her (also gay) aunt. Instead of immediately encountering her blood family, she finds a new family - a fantastic twosome who take her in and give her the support she so desperately needs. Carmen and Mateo are that pair and their sibling rivalry is delightful. Both pledge to help Faith and together with their feisty and foul-mouthed next door neighbour, Enid, they all set off on a road trip to find Molly. Meanwhile, on the romance side, Faith finds herself a girlfriend and experiences the joy (blessedly minus the pain) of first love…and Carmen also forms an unexpected connection with someone also wholly unexpected…
This had everything you want in a romantic duo…good characters to love and loathe, great pace and a cracking plot. Only problem with it was that I raced through it in no time at all…it’s straight on to the next for me!
I like this author’s writing style and she kept things rattling along at a fair old pace as brave baby-gay Faith runs away from home trying to find her (also gay) aunt. Instead of immediately encountering her blood family, she finds a new family - a fantastic twosome who take her in and give her the support she so desperately needs. Carmen and Mateo are that pair and their sibling rivalry is delightful. Both pledge to help Faith and together with their feisty and foul-mouthed next door neighbour, Enid, they all set off on a road trip to find Molly. Meanwhile, on the romance side, Faith finds herself a girlfriend and experiences the joy (blessedly minus the pain) of first love…and Carmen also forms an unexpected connection with someone also wholly unexpected…
This had everything you want in a romantic duo…good characters to love and loathe, great pace and a cracking plot. Only problem with it was that I raced through it in no time at all…it’s straight on to the next for me!
November 8, 2025
It was really good until the last chapter.
This chapter was filled with insensitive mistakes showing a lack of understanding in contradiction with the rest of the book:
- Carmen decides to leave to be alone, even though her main problem is that she isolates herself. Why neither Mateo nor her therapist objected to this?
- Carmen shames Faith and Nathalie for their sexual life (scowling at Nathalie every chance she gets - what?!).
- Molly brings Maureen to Faith without even asking if it’s okay (incredibly insensitive, especially for a teen counselor).
- It was completely unnecessary to have Molly arrives at the exact same time Carmen leaves, useless coincidence.
- Faith suddenly takes on the role of counselor for Molly, twenty years her senior.
All this nonsense to justify a second book.
Really disappointing - minus two stars for this last chapter alone. And I won't read the next book.
This chapter was filled with insensitive mistakes showing a lack of understanding in contradiction with the rest of the book:
- Carmen decides to leave to be alone, even though her main problem is that she isolates herself. Why neither Mateo nor her therapist objected to this?
- Carmen shames Faith and Nathalie for their sexual life (scowling at Nathalie every chance she gets - what?!).
- Molly brings Maureen to Faith without even asking if it’s okay (incredibly insensitive, especially for a teen counselor).
- It was completely unnecessary to have Molly arrives at the exact same time Carmen leaves, useless coincidence.
- Faith suddenly takes on the role of counselor for Molly, twenty years her senior.
All this nonsense to justify a second book.
Really disappointing - minus two stars for this last chapter alone. And I won't read the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2025
This is part one of the Lost and Found book series and it is brilliantly written with many LOL funny moments. The story is fast paced and we got to ride with 18 year old Faith for her long long journey to find her mysterious aunt Molly. For a teenager runaway, Faith was lucky to meet kind and protective people such as Carman who took her under her wings, not only gave her a shelter but also took her on her adventure of finding her aunt who she never met. There are two love stories going on, one is sweet first love and the other, the slow burn with tons of issues between two complicated and accomplished women. All the people in this book are vivid and unforgettable, most of them nice folks that I wish to have in real life. The ending is wide open and I can't wait for the next part.
December 14, 2024
I have been thinking about reading this 1st book in the The Lost & Found series for a long time, it has been waiting in my kindle app for months. I lucked out and got a free audiobook code from the author and started listening at once. The story amazing and the narration fantastic. I think this is my favourite Alyson Root book I have read or listened to so far.
Very nice, good feeling type of book but as usual in an Alyson Root book some hot scenes. The neighbour Enid, the super know-it-all is so fun, I hope more of her in the 2nd book and of course I need to see that also Carmen and Molly get their HEA.
Very nice, good feeling type of book but as usual in an Alyson Root book some hot scenes. The neighbour Enid, the super know-it-all is so fun, I hope more of her in the 2nd book and of course I need to see that also Carmen and Molly get their HEA.
December 29, 2025
A found family story that was funny, touching and a wonderful read, until approximately the 90% mark when the narrative slowed and began setting up for book 2.
I wish I stopped reading the series then. I was looking forward to enjoying more of the company of the fantastic cast of characters in Book 2 but the tone of the story changed. It was heavy on dealing with trauma so that the MCs could move forward with their lives/relationship but what I did not enjoy was the behaviour of one of the characters who became cartoonish to lighten things.
Overall, a series worth reading. Just be prepared for the switch in tone.
I wish I stopped reading the series then. I was looking forward to enjoying more of the company of the fantastic cast of characters in Book 2 but the tone of the story changed. It was heavy on dealing with trauma so that the MCs could move forward with their lives/relationship but what I did not enjoy was the behaviour of one of the characters who became cartoonish to lighten things.
Overall, a series worth reading. Just be prepared for the switch in tone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2024
Wonderful
This book covers everything. The characters are entertaining and serious. The theme embodies the concept that love is love. While you can’t choose your family, you can choose your friends. Blood related does not make a family. It’s respect, consideration and love for others that make a family. Alyson conveyed this much better than I just did and in a phenomenal way. The dialogue is priceless. The banter fantastic. You’ll wish the characters lived next to you. The wait for book 2 on June 4, 2024 will definitely tax my patience.
This book covers everything. The characters are entertaining and serious. The theme embodies the concept that love is love. While you can’t choose your family, you can choose your friends. Blood related does not make a family. It’s respect, consideration and love for others that make a family. Alyson conveyed this much better than I just did and in a phenomenal way. The dialogue is priceless. The banter fantastic. You’ll wish the characters lived next to you. The wait for book 2 on June 4, 2024 will definitely tax my patience.
October 20, 2024
(rounded up from 3.5)
Enjoyable and an easy read. I enjoyed the emotional themes of found family, escaping abusive situations, and being the queer elder to young people that you needed as a kid. The characters are compelling and the dialogue is quite funny and entertaining throughout. The only negative I found was that we don't go too deep into the trauma that exists (possibly because the book is for a YA audience) and a lot of important dialogue happens off-stage and we are given a recap later.
Enjoyable and an easy read. I enjoyed the emotional themes of found family, escaping abusive situations, and being the queer elder to young people that you needed as a kid. The characters are compelling and the dialogue is quite funny and entertaining throughout. The only negative I found was that we don't go too deep into the trauma that exists (possibly because the book is for a YA audience) and a lot of important dialogue happens off-stage and we are given a recap later.
December 21, 2024
* Review about the audiobook *
That hit me right in the heart. So many intense emotions!
It was this amazing story, of course, and what so many of these wonderful characters had to go through, but also Sadie Provost's wonderful narration.
She conveyed the quiet, gentle and vulnerable moments so well.
Not to mention the accents. Amazing!
I already knew the book, but listening to it as an audiobook was so much better.
I hope the second book is also narrated by Sadie Provost!
A perfect combination of Author and Narrator!
That hit me right in the heart. So many intense emotions!
It was this amazing story, of course, and what so many of these wonderful characters had to go through, but also Sadie Provost's wonderful narration.
She conveyed the quiet, gentle and vulnerable moments so well.
Not to mention the accents. Amazing!
I already knew the book, but listening to it as an audiobook was so much better.
I hope the second book is also narrated by Sadie Provost!
A perfect combination of Author and Narrator!
April 4, 2025
I judged this book on the short synopsis and wasn't planning to read it, what a mistake that would have been. I thought the story was aimed at a younger audience. However, despite the story being based around 18 year old Faith and her search for her aunt Molly there is a good cast of characters that make this story great. It highlights that family isn't always found through blood. The story pulls on your heartstrings and makes you laugh too. Especially Enid the cocktail drinking neighbour who is an absolute hoot.
July 8, 2025
The story was 5 stars the audio recording I listened to on audible is 4 stars. During chapters 10 and 16 the recording (sometimes in the middle of a sentence) would just go back and read “chapter 10” randomly. I believe it told me chapter 10 four times and chapter 16 three times in the respective chapter. Other than that Faith creating a found family and going on adventure to find her aunt was a cute story. First love, coming out, new experiences, and just a dab of religious trauma all wrapped up in one. I can’t wait to read Keeping Carmen Ruiz and hear the rest of Carmen and Mollys story.
May 6, 2024
Hilarious and poignant look at recovering from trauma and embracing found family.
This is a great book that blends trauma recovery and embracing found family both skillfully and tastefully with hilarity. I appreciated the dual storylines, but was disappointed that the book ended with a “to be continued”. There is discussion of and some depiction of domestic violence in this book, so if that is a trigger for you, you might be better off with a different book.
This is a great book that blends trauma recovery and embracing found family both skillfully and tastefully with hilarity. I appreciated the dual storylines, but was disappointed that the book ended with a “to be continued”. There is discussion of and some depiction of domestic violence in this book, so if that is a trigger for you, you might be better off with a different book.
October 25, 2024
Though a lot of sad things happen, there is a lot of love in this book. It's amazing! The main characters are great and there are plenty lovable side characters too. Because of Enid there are also a lot of funny moments. A major drawback is that the story is not done when the book is finished. But luckily it turns out to be a series and the second part is already available. No doubt about what my next book will be.
July 24, 2024
Got this book as part of a giveaway and was pleasantly surprised to see such excellent writing. This book tackled several realities of religious and other forms of abuse while still maintaining to convey a message of hope and that things can get better. As soon as I picked up this book I had a hard time putting it down because I was so invested in the characters.
August 13, 2024
Faith was tired of being mistreated by her father!
A tale of young girl/woman who set out to discover a new world. A newer world that accepted people like her. Faith likes girls! On her way to find her Aunt, who has idea that Faith even exists, Faith with her outgoing personality has managed to pick up and hopefully create a new Family! Enjoy!
A tale of young girl/woman who set out to discover a new world. A newer world that accepted people like her. Faith likes girls! On her way to find her Aunt, who has idea that Faith even exists, Faith with her outgoing personality has managed to pick up and hopefully create a new Family! Enjoy!
February 6, 2025
As much or more about trauma and found family than romance, which is what I like...a storyline that has romance but isn't just romance. Great characters. Definitely will continue the series to see what happens next.
April 5, 2025
Molly Parsons has a lot of her life to sort out. So does her neice Faith. What a gorgeous tale of bouncing around a Found family and Self discovery . What a cliffhanger I'll certainly get the next book in the series. A great best seller Alyson Root
June 20, 2025
age gap plus
This book explores so many interesting dynamics from youth abuse, homophobia, gender gap love & more. It’s fascinating & more encompassing than most lesbian romance books! I love it.
This book explores so many interesting dynamics from youth abuse, homophobia, gender gap love & more. It’s fascinating & more encompassing than most lesbian romance books! I love it.
October 14, 2024
As soon as I finished this one I jumped into number two!. Love Alyson Root's writing.
November 26, 2024
Wow. I haven’t read a book in a while that I was so enamored with. It’s got good humor, found family, cute interactions, lovely side characters... It’s amazing!
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