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Finding Preston
CAN YOUR HEART LOVE AFTER LOSS?After being viciously attacked, Jennifer Lee Black returns to her hometown in hopes of rebuilding her life. But first, she needs to recover from the trauma. Holed up in her great-grandmother’s farmhouse, she also needs to come to terms with walking away from the love of her life.
When her mother moves in, Jennifer falls victim to her dysfunctional ways once again. Her mother is determined to make her life a living hell, but Jennifer won’t let that stop her from moving on and building the life that she wants. Even though her scars have not healed, Jennifer leaves the comfort of her great-grandmother’s home to find a job. And the moment she does, more of her troublesome past catches up with her.
Jennifer agrees to join an old friend for dinner, thinking it might mend some old wounds. Instead, she finds herself bamboozled into a blind date with Preston Ledger. A man who is assertive, arrogant, and whose actions alter the course of Jennifer’s life in an instant.
Finding Preston is a touching story about love and loss that will warm your heart.
Recommended Adults 18+ years
This book contains trigger warnings!
Finding Preston, book 2 of The Mind, Heart, and Soul Series is a women’s literary fiction novel based on a true story. Inside, you will
A Story spanning from 1995-1999, told through the eyes of a 17-21 year old girlFamily life dramaThemes of abuse & trauma (that could be trigger warnings for some)Adult language, violence, and disturbing scenarios (that could be trigger warnings for some)A soul-wrenching and emotional gripping storyMedium spiceHeart-warming charactersAn ode to finding true love… and more!
What readers are
“Jessica Cantwell’s latest novel delivers a powerful story of survival and growth. While the book presents itself as a romance, its true strength lies in its unflinching exploration of self-discovery.”
“Finding Preston is an emotional journey that left me deeply moved. The story is raw, powerful, and filled with complexity.”
“Some readers may be shocked with the content. However these elements are not gratuitous, but integral parts of the story. The author skillfully uses Jennifer’s challenges and traumas to show that life can be messy, and downright cruel, and that even in the darkest one can find fun and love.”
When her mother moves in, Jennifer falls victim to her dysfunctional ways once again. Her mother is determined to make her life a living hell, but Jennifer won’t let that stop her from moving on and building the life that she wants. Even though her scars have not healed, Jennifer leaves the comfort of her great-grandmother’s home to find a job. And the moment she does, more of her troublesome past catches up with her.
Jennifer agrees to join an old friend for dinner, thinking it might mend some old wounds. Instead, she finds herself bamboozled into a blind date with Preston Ledger. A man who is assertive, arrogant, and whose actions alter the course of Jennifer’s life in an instant.
Finding Preston is a touching story about love and loss that will warm your heart.
Recommended Adults 18+ years
This book contains trigger warnings!
Finding Preston, book 2 of The Mind, Heart, and Soul Series is a women’s literary fiction novel based on a true story. Inside, you will
A Story spanning from 1995-1999, told through the eyes of a 17-21 year old girlFamily life dramaThemes of abuse & trauma (that could be trigger warnings for some)Adult language, violence, and disturbing scenarios (that could be trigger warnings for some)A soul-wrenching and emotional gripping storyMedium spiceHeart-warming charactersAn ode to finding true love… and more!
What readers are
“Jessica Cantwell’s latest novel delivers a powerful story of survival and growth. While the book presents itself as a romance, its true strength lies in its unflinching exploration of self-discovery.”
“Finding Preston is an emotional journey that left me deeply moved. The story is raw, powerful, and filled with complexity.”
“Some readers may be shocked with the content. However these elements are not gratuitous, but integral parts of the story. The author skillfully uses Jennifer’s challenges and traumas to show that life can be messy, and downright cruel, and that even in the darkest one can find fun and love.”
438 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2024
1 person is currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Cantwell
7 books39 followersJessica Cantwell is a disabled author, illustrator, and advocate navigating life with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, yard sale rummaging, drawing, painting, or refinishing furniture. She has a passion for baking (eating everything she bakes) and travel. You may find her biting bitterballen in Amsterdam, popping pirogues in Poland, or munching on meat pies in London!
Jessica is a dreamer who spends her days crafting fantastical adventures in far-off lands, penning commercial fiction that hits a little closer to home, or illustrating bright and imaginative children’s picture books.
You can follow Jessica on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @msjesscantwell
Jessica is a dreamer who spends her days crafting fantastical adventures in far-off lands, penning commercial fiction that hits a little closer to home, or illustrating bright and imaginative children’s picture books.
You can follow Jessica on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @msjesscantwell
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
December 13, 2024
A Worthy Second Installment in The Mind, Heart, and Soul Series
Finding Preston, the second book in The Mind, Heart, and Soul Series by Jessica Cantwell, was a perfect follow-up to Rebuilding Jennifer. In this installment, readers catch up with 17-year-old Jennifer Lee Black a month+ after we witnessed the shocking conclusion of book one. Main character Jennifer is shellshocked and eager to put distance between the violence she experienced “down south” and the horror living in her head as a result.
Nursing a broken heart and a love lost, Jennifer returns to Long Island and the welcoming arms of the scattered bits and pieces of her extended family. She *is* loved, something author Cantwell is willing to underline, but life isn’t easy. The next chapters of Jennifer’s journey will be fraught with people willing to abuse her, take her for granted, objectify her, challenge her in positive and negative ways, and put her in dangerous situations. There are also those willing to lift her up, and one in particular will love her with all his heart.
As mentioned in the book’s description, Jennifer’s mother, Jackie Leigh, reinserts herself into her daughter’s life. Unsurprisingly, Jackie’s still the abuser and user we met in book one of the series. Thankfully, there is a bit of comeuppance this time around, but still…It’s heart-wrenching to think a mother could be so cold and cruel to her own child. That aside, Jennifer is made of stronger stuff than years before, and she is unwilling to let her mother off the hook. As a reader, I was happy to see this. Adjacent to this storyline is Jennifer’s newfound friendship (of sorts) with a character from her past who’d previously let her down: Officer Alan Schmidt. I really like what author Cantwell did here. There’s a hint of a side redemption arc that adds real value to the overall storyline.
The title of the book is Finding Preston—and there is a Preston. For this reader, I’m overjoyed with his entrance into Jennifer’s life. The first meeting is…questionable and concerning—but what follows is the revealing of a truly kind and loving person. He is a rock, a steady hand, a protector only when he needs to be one. He’s honest. He’s supportive. He has his share of baggage, but he’s worth every hurdle. I’m Team Preston.
A couple of notes regarding sex: there are some sensual (and fun) steamy scenes—and it’s consensual. There is also some scary non-con going on, too. Let me be clear: this is not dub-con; it’s unwelcome by the main character. It is portrayed honestly, and I think there will be a contingent of readers who might identify with the situation. It fits the storyline. It’s not gratuitous. It’s…relatable.
Cantwell has firmly established herself as a force in contemporary women’s literature. Her voice is honest, believable, and recognizable. She does not glorify the gritty, nor does she shy away from unpleasant subjects: misogyny in the workplace; toxic friendships that actually put another’s life on the line—I’m looking at you, Erica; physical abuse; and yes, even sexual assault. And yet, time and time again, I am amazed at how Cantwell presents these subjects in such a way that you see the empowerment and strength of character INSIDE her main character. You have compassion for Jennifer but are never led to pity her.
I *do* wonder about the closing of Finding Preston. Admittedly, I was anxious as I neared the end of the book. Things really swung in the direction of good for Jennifer, and I was riding high in happiness alongside this amazing “knock me down and I’ll get back up again” character. There is a moment when Jennifer gets a bit of closure, and it’s a good thing. But then…someone returns. It’s unexpected and maybe not necessarily a bad thing, but I sense this is the beginning of something difficult Jennifr will face in book three of the series.
Speaking of...And then there’s the sneak peek of the author’s third book planned for this trilogy, Losing Jason. (Insert the sound of my heart twisting and turning in my chest.) Jennifer’s life might have taken a turn for the better, but…the author writes with a pen dipped in truth. “Happily ever afters” are rarely found in the real world, and Cantwell isn’t afraid to remind us of that fact. I can respect that.
I’m looking forward to reading book three (Losing Jason). I can’t imagine how Jennifer’s life will be shaped by the reintroduction of such an impactful character, and I am eager to learn more. But for now, I'm giving an honest five stars to Finding Preston. Author Cantwell, this was a fantastic follow-up to Rebuilding Jennifer. I cannot wait to find out what happens next!
Finding Preston, the second book in The Mind, Heart, and Soul Series by Jessica Cantwell, was a perfect follow-up to Rebuilding Jennifer. In this installment, readers catch up with 17-year-old Jennifer Lee Black a month+ after we witnessed the shocking conclusion of book one. Main character Jennifer is shellshocked and eager to put distance between the violence she experienced “down south” and the horror living in her head as a result.
Nursing a broken heart and a love lost, Jennifer returns to Long Island and the welcoming arms of the scattered bits and pieces of her extended family. She *is* loved, something author Cantwell is willing to underline, but life isn’t easy. The next chapters of Jennifer’s journey will be fraught with people willing to abuse her, take her for granted, objectify her, challenge her in positive and negative ways, and put her in dangerous situations. There are also those willing to lift her up, and one in particular will love her with all his heart.
As mentioned in the book’s description, Jennifer’s mother, Jackie Leigh, reinserts herself into her daughter’s life. Unsurprisingly, Jackie’s still the abuser and user we met in book one of the series. Thankfully, there is a bit of comeuppance this time around, but still…It’s heart-wrenching to think a mother could be so cold and cruel to her own child. That aside, Jennifer is made of stronger stuff than years before, and she is unwilling to let her mother off the hook. As a reader, I was happy to see this. Adjacent to this storyline is Jennifer’s newfound friendship (of sorts) with a character from her past who’d previously let her down: Officer Alan Schmidt. I really like what author Cantwell did here. There’s a hint of a side redemption arc that adds real value to the overall storyline.
The title of the book is Finding Preston—and there is a Preston. For this reader, I’m overjoyed with his entrance into Jennifer’s life. The first meeting is…questionable and concerning—but what follows is the revealing of a truly kind and loving person. He is a rock, a steady hand, a protector only when he needs to be one. He’s honest. He’s supportive. He has his share of baggage, but he’s worth every hurdle. I’m Team Preston.
A couple of notes regarding sex: there are some sensual (and fun) steamy scenes—and it’s consensual. There is also some scary non-con going on, too. Let me be clear: this is not dub-con; it’s unwelcome by the main character. It is portrayed honestly, and I think there will be a contingent of readers who might identify with the situation. It fits the storyline. It’s not gratuitous. It’s…relatable.
Cantwell has firmly established herself as a force in contemporary women’s literature. Her voice is honest, believable, and recognizable. She does not glorify the gritty, nor does she shy away from unpleasant subjects: misogyny in the workplace; toxic friendships that actually put another’s life on the line—I’m looking at you, Erica; physical abuse; and yes, even sexual assault. And yet, time and time again, I am amazed at how Cantwell presents these subjects in such a way that you see the empowerment and strength of character INSIDE her main character. You have compassion for Jennifer but are never led to pity her.
I *do* wonder about the closing of Finding Preston. Admittedly, I was anxious as I neared the end of the book. Things really swung in the direction of good for Jennifer, and I was riding high in happiness alongside this amazing “knock me down and I’ll get back up again” character. There is a moment when Jennifer gets a bit of closure, and it’s a good thing. But then…someone returns. It’s unexpected and maybe not necessarily a bad thing, but I sense this is the beginning of something difficult Jennifr will face in book three of the series.
Speaking of...And then there’s the sneak peek of the author’s third book planned for this trilogy, Losing Jason. (Insert the sound of my heart twisting and turning in my chest.) Jennifer’s life might have taken a turn for the better, but…the author writes with a pen dipped in truth. “Happily ever afters” are rarely found in the real world, and Cantwell isn’t afraid to remind us of that fact. I can respect that.
I’m looking forward to reading book three (Losing Jason). I can’t imagine how Jennifer’s life will be shaped by the reintroduction of such an impactful character, and I am eager to learn more. But for now, I'm giving an honest five stars to Finding Preston. Author Cantwell, this was a fantastic follow-up to Rebuilding Jennifer. I cannot wait to find out what happens next!
December 9, 2024
"Finding Preston" is the second book in "The Mind, Heart, and Soul Series" by Jessica Cantwell. The first book was one of the best I've read recently. It's odd to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it, considering it centers on child abuse—a topic I find deeply unsettling. Yet, the writing was superb, and the narrative profoundly touching. Consequently, I eagerly began reading "Finding Preston" as soon as I was able to do so.
In this sequel, time has passed, and Jennifer, the protagonist, is older but haunted by her past. It seemed improbable that she would not only endure but also prosper. Yet, Jennifer does more than survive in "Finding Preston"; she flourishes. She juggles caring for her grandmother with securing a job to support herself. She forges connections with individuals from her past and those who will shape her future, and most crucially, she confronts her trauma in order to heal.
While "Rebuilding Jennifer" (the first book) narrates a tale of abuse, "Finding Preston" offers a therapeutic journey of recovery.
"Finding Preston" made me both laugh and cry; Jessica Cantwell is a masterful writer, infusing her books with raw emotion and challenging her characters to deal with more than their fair share of all that life has to offer. Considering the story is inspired by true events, I sincerely hope that the real Jennifer is as determined as the Jennifer in the story. And I also hope that the ladies at the hair salon are real, as their steadfast support was truly heartwarming.
In this sequel, time has passed, and Jennifer, the protagonist, is older but haunted by her past. It seemed improbable that she would not only endure but also prosper. Yet, Jennifer does more than survive in "Finding Preston"; she flourishes. She juggles caring for her grandmother with securing a job to support herself. She forges connections with individuals from her past and those who will shape her future, and most crucially, she confronts her trauma in order to heal.
While "Rebuilding Jennifer" (the first book) narrates a tale of abuse, "Finding Preston" offers a therapeutic journey of recovery.
"Finding Preston" made me both laugh and cry; Jessica Cantwell is a masterful writer, infusing her books with raw emotion and challenging her characters to deal with more than their fair share of all that life has to offer. Considering the story is inspired by true events, I sincerely hope that the real Jennifer is as determined as the Jennifer in the story. And I also hope that the ladies at the hair salon are real, as their steadfast support was truly heartwarming.
December 11, 2024
Jessica Cantwell's latest novel delivers a powerful semi-autobiographical story of survival and growth. While the book presents itself as a romance, its true strength lies in its unflinching exploration of self-discovery.
At the heart of the narrative is Jennifer Lee Black, a young woman whose journey of growth and empowerment takes center stage. Cantwell uses Jennifer's relationships, particularly with the enigmatic Preston Ledger, to highlight her protagonist's personal transformation. I couldn't help but be fully invested in that evolution, cheering for Jennifer's triumphs and wincing at her heartbreaking setbacks, desperate to see her emerge stronger and more self-assured.
Despite the emotional turmoil throughout, Cantwell offers moments of genuine warmth through Jennifer's relationship with her great-grandmother. This feisty matriarch, who favors purple hats and mismatched outfits, provides a delightful respite to the story's darker themes. When Jennifer visits the family farmhouse after a long absence, she discovers her beloved relative has been neglecting her health and finances. Concerned, 17-year-old Jennifer moves in to care for her eccentric but adored Granny, adding a layer of heartfelt charm to the tale.
Though the story tackles psychological trauma, abuse, and family dysfunction, Cantwell handles these weighty themes with remarkable sensitivity. I highly recommend Finding Preston as well as the first book in the series, Rebuilding Jennifer.
At the heart of the narrative is Jennifer Lee Black, a young woman whose journey of growth and empowerment takes center stage. Cantwell uses Jennifer's relationships, particularly with the enigmatic Preston Ledger, to highlight her protagonist's personal transformation. I couldn't help but be fully invested in that evolution, cheering for Jennifer's triumphs and wincing at her heartbreaking setbacks, desperate to see her emerge stronger and more self-assured.
Despite the emotional turmoil throughout, Cantwell offers moments of genuine warmth through Jennifer's relationship with her great-grandmother. This feisty matriarch, who favors purple hats and mismatched outfits, provides a delightful respite to the story's darker themes. When Jennifer visits the family farmhouse after a long absence, she discovers her beloved relative has been neglecting her health and finances. Concerned, 17-year-old Jennifer moves in to care for her eccentric but adored Granny, adding a layer of heartfelt charm to the tale.
Though the story tackles psychological trauma, abuse, and family dysfunction, Cantwell handles these weighty themes with remarkable sensitivity. I highly recommend Finding Preston as well as the first book in the series, Rebuilding Jennifer.
January 31, 2025
A powerful and emotional page-turner!
Finding Preston, book 2 in Jessica Cantwell’s The Mind, Heart, and Soul Series, is a sequel that does not disappoint. Finding Preston picks up where Rebuilding Jennifer left off—with 17-year-old, Jennifer Black reeling from the traumatic events at the end of book 1.
The main character, Jennifer, faces hardships that would defeat many, or at least cause their hearts to harden, but this main character not only becomes the heroine of her own story but discovers a way to overcome her hardships and blossom without losing herself. The plot is full of heart-wrenching twists and turns, while also being a story of resilience, love, and hope.
Some readers may be shocked by the violence, the sex (both consensual and nonconsensual), and Jennifer’s turbulent relationship with her abusive mother. However, these elements are not gratuitous, but integral parts of the story. The author skillfully uses Jennifer’s challenges and traumas to show that life can be messy, and downright cruel and that even in the darkness, one can find fun and love. The realistic dialogue pulls the reader in and makes you feel as if you’re sitting in the room with the characters.
The author ends Finding Preston with an intriguing twist and also a sneak peek chapter from the next book in the series. I am excited and eager for book 3 as it promises to be another heart-tugging page-turner.
Finding Preston is a powerful and emotional page-turner. Five Stars!
Finding Preston, book 2 in Jessica Cantwell’s The Mind, Heart, and Soul Series, is a sequel that does not disappoint. Finding Preston picks up where Rebuilding Jennifer left off—with 17-year-old, Jennifer Black reeling from the traumatic events at the end of book 1.
The main character, Jennifer, faces hardships that would defeat many, or at least cause their hearts to harden, but this main character not only becomes the heroine of her own story but discovers a way to overcome her hardships and blossom without losing herself. The plot is full of heart-wrenching twists and turns, while also being a story of resilience, love, and hope.
Some readers may be shocked by the violence, the sex (both consensual and nonconsensual), and Jennifer’s turbulent relationship with her abusive mother. However, these elements are not gratuitous, but integral parts of the story. The author skillfully uses Jennifer’s challenges and traumas to show that life can be messy, and downright cruel and that even in the darkness, one can find fun and love. The realistic dialogue pulls the reader in and makes you feel as if you’re sitting in the room with the characters.
The author ends Finding Preston with an intriguing twist and also a sneak peek chapter from the next book in the series. I am excited and eager for book 3 as it promises to be another heart-tugging page-turner.
Finding Preston is a powerful and emotional page-turner. Five Stars!
December 9, 2024
Finding Preston is an emotional journey that left me deeply moved. The story is raw, powerful, and filled with complexity, and Jennifer’s character is a standout. Her struggles, resilience, and personal growth since the first book make her someone you can’t help but root for. The relationships she navigates—with her family, Kit, and Preston—are portrayed in such a relatable way, capturing the highs and lows of love and self-discovery.
The balance between intense, emotional moments and lighter, tender scenes is masterful. It kept me engaged and offered the perfect blend of catharsis and hope. Jennifer’s bond with Preston brings warmth and stability to the story, while her past with Kit adds layers of depth, showing how connections shape us even as we move forward.
The vivid descriptions and authentic dialogue pulled me into Jennifer’s world, and her experiences stayed with me long after I turned the last page. This novel is a beautiful exploration of love, trauma, and healing, written in a way that feels heartfelt and genuine.
For anyone questioning whether the sequel could live up to the first book, let me assure you—it’s even better. Finding Preston is a memorable, compelling story that will inspire and resonate with readers. Well done!
The balance between intense, emotional moments and lighter, tender scenes is masterful. It kept me engaged and offered the perfect blend of catharsis and hope. Jennifer’s bond with Preston brings warmth and stability to the story, while her past with Kit adds layers of depth, showing how connections shape us even as we move forward.
The vivid descriptions and authentic dialogue pulled me into Jennifer’s world, and her experiences stayed with me long after I turned the last page. This novel is a beautiful exploration of love, trauma, and healing, written in a way that feels heartfelt and genuine.
For anyone questioning whether the sequel could live up to the first book, let me assure you—it’s even better. Finding Preston is a memorable, compelling story that will inspire and resonate with readers. Well done!
December 6, 2024
Sensitive, seductive, and compelling … a fabulous read!
As Rebuilding Jennifer was amongst my favourite and most emotive reads of 2023, I was itching to read Finding Preston to continue the story.
Following a vicious attack, 17-year-old Jennifer Lee Black returns to her hometown, escaping her assailant but also leaving the love of her life behind. Back on familiar territory, she hopes to recuperate, but familiar ground also brings the familiar troubles of an abusive mother and highly questionable friends. While Jennifer finds herself navigating further troubles, a new love interest rather imposes himself in her life.
Finding Preston is beautifully written, sensitive, seductive, and compelling. A story of love and resilience, and one of my favourite reads of 2024.
As Rebuilding Jennifer was amongst my favourite and most emotive reads of 2023, I was itching to read Finding Preston to continue the story.
Following a vicious attack, 17-year-old Jennifer Lee Black returns to her hometown, escaping her assailant but also leaving the love of her life behind. Back on familiar territory, she hopes to recuperate, but familiar ground also brings the familiar troubles of an abusive mother and highly questionable friends. While Jennifer finds herself navigating further troubles, a new love interest rather imposes himself in her life.
Finding Preston is beautifully written, sensitive, seductive, and compelling. A story of love and resilience, and one of my favourite reads of 2024.
July 16, 2025
True love: when someone cherishes every single broken part of you, but refuses to believe you’re broken. That’s the story of Finding Preston. After the trauma and horror of the first book, Rebuilding Jennifer, Jenny’s troubles are far from over, but she no longer has to face them alone once she opens her heart to Preston. Superbly written, Cantwell has delivered another emotional bombshell depicting a compelling journey of survival and healing.
January 9, 2026
Finding Preston was an absolutely beautiful story. Our dear main character, Jennifer, begins to pick up her broken pieces and start to heal. Her love interest is so sweet and also the perfect amount of spicy. This story is real. It touched my heart, just like Rebuilding Jennifer. It gave me hope. It’s a testament to the fact that you can rebuild a beautiful life after trauma. I loved it! Thank you, Jessica, for this masterpiece!
December 9, 2024
Where Rebuilding Jennifer was a heart-wrenching opening to the Heart, Mind, Soul series, Finding Preston is a healing follow-up. Don’t get me wrong - there are plenty of tragic themes, but you can almost see Jennifer’s healing process and her building confidence. Really looking forward to how the story evolves and continues.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews