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Blaming the Wind
Sophia Douglas can’t shake the fear that she’s in over her head. A spontaneous elopement and a layoff from her high-paying job are stressful enough, but a plus sign on her pregnancy test sends her into a panic. Fearing her husband, Terrence, might leave like her father did, Sophia confides her insecurities to Tara, her friend and mom of three.
Though Tara Fisher encourages Sophia to trust Terrence, she’s hiding her own A handsome attorney is pursuing her, and she’s questioning her commitment to Josh, her husband of 10 years. After a devastating career-ending accident, Josh has changed, and so have Tara’s feelings for him.
When a crisis arises that threatens to destroy Sophia and Terrence’s young marriage, Sophia must either overcome her fear of abandonment or lose everything she never knew she wanted. Meanwhile, as Tara is torn between responsibility and passion, her imperfectly put together life starts to unravel, and ghosts from her past resurface to haunt her.
As these two couples grapple with secrets, temptation, and illness, only time will tell if their vows are strong enough to hold them together.
Though Tara Fisher encourages Sophia to trust Terrence, she’s hiding her own A handsome attorney is pursuing her, and she’s questioning her commitment to Josh, her husband of 10 years. After a devastating career-ending accident, Josh has changed, and so have Tara’s feelings for him.
When a crisis arises that threatens to destroy Sophia and Terrence’s young marriage, Sophia must either overcome her fear of abandonment or lose everything she never knew she wanted. Meanwhile, as Tara is torn between responsibility and passion, her imperfectly put together life starts to unravel, and ghosts from her past resurface to haunt her.
As these two couples grapple with secrets, temptation, and illness, only time will tell if their vows are strong enough to hold them together.
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First published May 1, 2016
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About the author
Alessandra Harris
6 books68 followersAlessandra Harris doesn't shy away from controversial topics, and writes novels that reflect the diversity of her world. She loves stories that break your heart but leave you smiling at the end, so that’s exactly what she writes: made-up stories about almost-real people.
She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and four children, and is the organizer of San Jose Novel Writers, a group of eclectic writers offering fellowship, support and tips on all forms of writing.
Alessandra's debut novel, Blaming the Wind, was published by Red Adept Publishing in 2016, followed by Everything She Lost in 2018.
She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and four children, and is the organizer of San Jose Novel Writers, a group of eclectic writers offering fellowship, support and tips on all forms of writing.
Alessandra's debut novel, Blaming the Wind, was published by Red Adept Publishing in 2016, followed by Everything She Lost in 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
March 22, 2017
Secrets, lies, infidelity and unrealistic expectations from life bring two couples, neighbors and best friends to their knees as each grapple with their pasts, their presents and their futures. Two marriages in crisis, different actions and reactions, well-intentioned, yet unwelcomed surprises, lack of communication and respect, pretty much two recipes for disaster in what had been the bright and hopeful dreams of husbands and wives.
Alessandra Harris’ BLAMING THE WIND follows a young family with three young children as their roles are reversed and Tara Fisher has become the breadwinner and Josh, the stay-at-home Dad after an injury ends his career. Although Josh has embraced his role and is everything Tara thought she wanted, a handsome stranger steals her mind and body for tawdry trysts.
Meanwhile, down on their financial luck, with Sophia pink-slipped and Terrence’s career on the line, married only a year and about to lose their home, struggle to face the future when a family crisis brings even more stress on their young relationship. When Sophia discovers she is pregnant, she withholds the information from Terrence because of twisted and undisclosed fears she holds inside. Will Terrence give up on Sophia and find solace in the arms of another who offers herself freely? Can Sophia blame him?
As Tara plays a game of Russian Roulette with her marriage, Josh learns of her suspected infidelity in a moment of shared marital passion. Trapped in her own guilt, her ability to blame her past, her lover and pretty much anyone but herself, causes her to break down mentally. Can she be healed? Will Josh accept her back?
Alessandra Harris paints a bleak picture of reality in two marriages, of the cost of selfishness and its consequences, painting a sad picture of contemporary romance in the world today, as well as the pressures of mental illness that goes un-diagnosed and untreated. Ms. Harris does not paint her characters in rosy colors, they are all flawed, although some truly know the concept of “…until death do us part.” In a world of disposable relationships, this is the prefect commentary on how ill-prepared many are to commit with all they have, for a lifetime.
There are many triggers, from infidelity, to its aftermath, deceit and attempted suicide, as well as mental health issues. For me, few characters were likable, few had the backbone to either grab on tight and work through the problems or walk away, before more damage is done. One even forgot to think of her children first. An emotionally jarring read, told with a dark atmosphere that proves that in order to have a happy ever after, it takes commitment and total trust and honesty.
Ms. Harris has done a wonderful job of drawing out her readers' emotions and reactions.
I received this copy from Alessandra Harris in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing, LLC (April 19, 2016)
Publication Date: April 19, 2016
Genre: Dysfunctional Families | Women's Fiction
Print Length: 314 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Alessandra Harris’ BLAMING THE WIND follows a young family with three young children as their roles are reversed and Tara Fisher has become the breadwinner and Josh, the stay-at-home Dad after an injury ends his career. Although Josh has embraced his role and is everything Tara thought she wanted, a handsome stranger steals her mind and body for tawdry trysts.
Meanwhile, down on their financial luck, with Sophia pink-slipped and Terrence’s career on the line, married only a year and about to lose their home, struggle to face the future when a family crisis brings even more stress on their young relationship. When Sophia discovers she is pregnant, she withholds the information from Terrence because of twisted and undisclosed fears she holds inside. Will Terrence give up on Sophia and find solace in the arms of another who offers herself freely? Can Sophia blame him?
As Tara plays a game of Russian Roulette with her marriage, Josh learns of her suspected infidelity in a moment of shared marital passion. Trapped in her own guilt, her ability to blame her past, her lover and pretty much anyone but herself, causes her to break down mentally. Can she be healed? Will Josh accept her back?
Alessandra Harris paints a bleak picture of reality in two marriages, of the cost of selfishness and its consequences, painting a sad picture of contemporary romance in the world today, as well as the pressures of mental illness that goes un-diagnosed and untreated. Ms. Harris does not paint her characters in rosy colors, they are all flawed, although some truly know the concept of “…until death do us part.” In a world of disposable relationships, this is the prefect commentary on how ill-prepared many are to commit with all they have, for a lifetime.
There are many triggers, from infidelity, to its aftermath, deceit and attempted suicide, as well as mental health issues. For me, few characters were likable, few had the backbone to either grab on tight and work through the problems or walk away, before more damage is done. One even forgot to think of her children first. An emotionally jarring read, told with a dark atmosphere that proves that in order to have a happy ever after, it takes commitment and total trust and honesty.
Ms. Harris has done a wonderful job of drawing out her readers' emotions and reactions.
I received this copy from Alessandra Harris in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing, LLC (April 19, 2016)
Publication Date: April 19, 2016
Genre: Dysfunctional Families | Women's Fiction
Print Length: 314 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
May 26, 2016
I had no expectations when I first began reading this book. A lot of reviewers comment that this is a great ‘debuting’ novel, or ‘for her first novel’ it’s good. As usual, I disagree with most reviewers. This is a good book because it’s a good book. Doesn’t matter if she’s written thousands of novels and did eenie meenie miney moe to pick one to publish or if she just discovered how to work a laptop and this somehow came to be. The book is good because it is good. Simple as that.
Now, let’s talk about why it’s good.
Blaming The Wind is a great title for this novel. I think it really describes a lot of the unspoken words between Sophia and Terrence, it also describes how some of the events are handled or addressed. Sophia is the kind of character who teeters. Sometimes she tackles things, like finding a job to help pay the bills, and sometimes she avoids things, like telling her husband about her pregnancy—or telling Terrence anything, really. She talks to her mom some, which is nice. But Sophia is a character who never really does what you want her to do and that’s ok! I was happy to get angry with a character for once, or to feel that I would have handled things differently because that’s what makes a novel exciting. I kept turning the pages because I wanted to see if things would go my way or another way.
Honestly, this isn’t your typical romance. There’s some betrayal and confrontation, things get heated but they’re also sweet at times. It is cliché to call it a roller coaster but I’m having a tough time finding the right words to use when it comes to Blaming The Wind. Harris has definitely found her niche and I hope she sticks to it. Romance can get dull with the same kind of characters and the same kind of story retold in a different setting. But this is new and it is refreshing and to call it just a romance would be an injustice to all this book truly is. It is riveting and it is surprisingly exciting. I would definitely recommend it to adult readers and those who enjoy light reads or easy reads with a bit of underlying suspense.
There are certainly some shockers to be revealed in this book that, by all accounts, reads like a soap opera come to life. You will enjoy it, but I think the writing is something you have to taste test for yourself. I found it a little bland but the story and the drama definitely made up for it. You have a breaking marriage, drowning finances, a baby on the way, and a pile of secrets waiting to spill over. You can’t ask for a more entertaining story. Oh wait, you can! Harris has finally done what so many authors need to step out and do … write about minority characters! I was SO excited to see a sophisticated novel NOT get labeled as an ‘urban novel’ or an ‘African-American book’ just because the characters happen to have a different color skin. Blaming The Wind is not a ‘black novel’ it is a novel and it’s a good one.
I wish more authors would follow Harris’ lead but maybe she will take the stage all on her own. With a book like this, she may not need help bringing more minority characters to life.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Now, let’s talk about why it’s good.
Blaming The Wind is a great title for this novel. I think it really describes a lot of the unspoken words between Sophia and Terrence, it also describes how some of the events are handled or addressed. Sophia is the kind of character who teeters. Sometimes she tackles things, like finding a job to help pay the bills, and sometimes she avoids things, like telling her husband about her pregnancy—or telling Terrence anything, really. She talks to her mom some, which is nice. But Sophia is a character who never really does what you want her to do and that’s ok! I was happy to get angry with a character for once, or to feel that I would have handled things differently because that’s what makes a novel exciting. I kept turning the pages because I wanted to see if things would go my way or another way.
Honestly, this isn’t your typical romance. There’s some betrayal and confrontation, things get heated but they’re also sweet at times. It is cliché to call it a roller coaster but I’m having a tough time finding the right words to use when it comes to Blaming The Wind. Harris has definitely found her niche and I hope she sticks to it. Romance can get dull with the same kind of characters and the same kind of story retold in a different setting. But this is new and it is refreshing and to call it just a romance would be an injustice to all this book truly is. It is riveting and it is surprisingly exciting. I would definitely recommend it to adult readers and those who enjoy light reads or easy reads with a bit of underlying suspense.
There are certainly some shockers to be revealed in this book that, by all accounts, reads like a soap opera come to life. You will enjoy it, but I think the writing is something you have to taste test for yourself. I found it a little bland but the story and the drama definitely made up for it. You have a breaking marriage, drowning finances, a baby on the way, and a pile of secrets waiting to spill over. You can’t ask for a more entertaining story. Oh wait, you can! Harris has finally done what so many authors need to step out and do … write about minority characters! I was SO excited to see a sophisticated novel NOT get labeled as an ‘urban novel’ or an ‘African-American book’ just because the characters happen to have a different color skin. Blaming The Wind is not a ‘black novel’ it is a novel and it’s a good one.
I wish more authors would follow Harris’ lead but maybe she will take the stage all on her own. With a book like this, she may not need help bringing more minority characters to life.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
December 30, 2017
Favorite Quotes:
I feel like I’m caught in one of those Lifetime movies Tara always used to watch. It’s like, how can this be my life?
I’ve learned that sometimes you have to let go of who you were in order to become who you can be.
I realize that some chapters have to end before a new story can start… You need to talk to him. Hear him out. This is the ‘after’ that follows ‘happily ever.’
My Review:
Blaming the Wind was an exceptionally insightful and engrossing book packed with intriguingly flawed and fascinating characters. I was stunned to realize this was Ms. Harris’s debut effort, this gal writes like a seasoned scribe. The story threads were well-paced, emotive, compelling, and highly relevant, so much so, I couldn’t seem to put my Kindle down despite the clock registering well past midnight. The characters were unpredictable, alluring, annoying, enticing and erratic. I wanted to give several a hard pinch yet I couldn’t get enough of them. I am looking forward to more from this talented wordsmith and already have her second book locked and loaded.
I feel like I’m caught in one of those Lifetime movies Tara always used to watch. It’s like, how can this be my life?
I’ve learned that sometimes you have to let go of who you were in order to become who you can be.
I realize that some chapters have to end before a new story can start… You need to talk to him. Hear him out. This is the ‘after’ that follows ‘happily ever.’
My Review:
Blaming the Wind was an exceptionally insightful and engrossing book packed with intriguingly flawed and fascinating characters. I was stunned to realize this was Ms. Harris’s debut effort, this gal writes like a seasoned scribe. The story threads were well-paced, emotive, compelling, and highly relevant, so much so, I couldn’t seem to put my Kindle down despite the clock registering well past midnight. The characters were unpredictable, alluring, annoying, enticing and erratic. I wanted to give several a hard pinch yet I couldn’t get enough of them. I am looking forward to more from this talented wordsmith and already have her second book locked and loaded.
January 18, 2024
4 stars ⭐️
June 27, 2016
The struggle is real in real life but between the pages too. Blaming the Wind tells us a story of hard times and mistrust. You'll learn that some things can be put behind and some things you must look straight in the eye and fight them or for them.
https://bookstoldmeso.blogspot.fi/201...
https://bookstoldmeso.blogspot.fi/201...
April 10, 2018
Blaming the Wind
By Alessandra Harris
This story had a lot of drama. And there was a twist that I wasn’t expecting. This is a story about 4 people learning how to live and be married to each other. Sophia and Terrence are learning how to trust each other. Early in their relationship Sophia kept things from Terrence. So when she finds out she is pregnant she doesn't know how to tell Terrence. That is until she thinks she is losing the baby. Then you have Tara & Josh, they have 3 little girls and have been together since they were in high school. But Tara is a working woman while Josh is a stay-at-home dad since he had an accident at work. But things aren’t all roses there either. Tara works to much and is never home & Josh is tired of doing everything at home.Then you throw in Sophia’s sister Desire, who just turns everything upside down. If you love drama then this is for you.
By Alessandra Harris
This story had a lot of drama. And there was a twist that I wasn’t expecting. This is a story about 4 people learning how to live and be married to each other. Sophia and Terrence are learning how to trust each other. Early in their relationship Sophia kept things from Terrence. So when she finds out she is pregnant she doesn't know how to tell Terrence. That is until she thinks she is losing the baby. Then you have Tara & Josh, they have 3 little girls and have been together since they were in high school. But Tara is a working woman while Josh is a stay-at-home dad since he had an accident at work. But things aren’t all roses there either. Tara works to much and is never home & Josh is tired of doing everything at home.Then you throw in Sophia’s sister Desire, who just turns everything upside down. If you love drama then this is for you.
October 13, 2017
I quite enjoyed reading Blaming the Wind by Alessandra Harris. There were things in there that I didn't enjoy (a lot of secrets between husband and wife, secrets between friends etc), but that didn't effect my enjoyment of the story overall. I felt the story was written well. This is my first book by this author but I would definitely read another one. There were lots of characters and I liked most of them. They were flawed and made decisions that I don't think I would ever make but the characters did learn, change, and grow from those choices. I felt like it was easy to like most of the characters and then there was one or two you love to hate. I would highly recommend it to other who enjoy this genre. It's not for everyone but it was great read.
February 17, 2018
This was a well-written book. Sophie is recently married, has been laid off from work and is shocked to find out she is pregnant. She is nervous to tell her husband, Terrence, afraid he might leave, like her father left her mother when she was young. She confides in her friend Tara, who is hiding secrets of her own. A handsome lawyer is pursuing her, and she is questioning her commitment to her husband of ten years, Josh, who has changed since experiencing a career-ending accident. Crises arise in the lives of both couples, and they struggle to find their way through it all. This was an entertaining book and I would read other books by this author.
October 30, 2017
It is amazingly intense and the author prepares you for the journey for you to take alongside the characters really well. The characters and story development were perfectly done. This book was extremely well written and has fast become of my favourites of all time. This book was full of many twists and turns that will keep you guessing what is going to happen till the very end. I devoured it in one sitting. Incredible work!! I absolutely adored reading this book and will be one clicking the rest of this authors work.
December 14, 2017
This is a really well written story that will touch your heart. Alessandra Harris has woven a complex tale of friendship, family, betrayal and forgiveness. The characters are flawed in many ways, and although you may not relate specifically to their individual flaws, you will understand them as imperfect humans in an imperfect world. The author has also very sensitively incorporated mental illness, for which I applaud her.
A fantastic book that I am pleased to have received as a gift and even more pleased to be able to review.
A fantastic book that I am pleased to have received as a gift and even more pleased to be able to review.
October 27, 2023
WHAT an adventure! Is it the best-written piece of fiction ever? No. Is it melodramatic and full of clichés? Yes. Did it prompt a few eye-rolls and deep sighs as I swallowed the urge to critique the prose or dialogue? Absolutely. But did I eat it up ? ALSO YES. Obviously. Boy-- what twists and turns! Every time I thought, this cannot possibly get worse for these people-- it did! So many surprises! Honestly such a great time. We all need a light and engrossing read every once in a while.
January 22, 2018
This story pulled at my heart. It is about two couples and their struggles in life and love. I was compelled to read to see how it all turned out, although there was one point I almost gave up near the end. To my relief, that point turned into something better. There were tears, smiles, sighs, and breath holding throughout the story.
I received a copy of this story through Candid Book Reviews, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received a copy of this story through Candid Book Reviews, and this is my unsolicited review.
March 16, 2018
This book got (and held) my attention. I loved that the chapters alternated between each of the four main characters, Sophia, Terrance, Tara, and Josh. They each have their own struggles -financial issues and unemployment, lies and betrayal, and mental illness. The author did a good job highlighting what mental illness can do to a person as well as to their friends and family. I received a free copy of this book and my opinions are my own.
May 8, 2018
After reading the premise, I did expect much from this book. Though it's rather predictable at some points, the twists and turns kept me turning the pages to the last. I like the lessons of acceptance, family communication, and honesty the characters learn in this story. However, I found the main characters are not easy to relate to and not very likeable. So, this book is quite a struggle for me to read. I think I would recommend this book to readers who love romance/family drama.
I voluntarily read and review a free copy of this book provided by the author.
I voluntarily read and review a free copy of this book provided by the author.
August 18, 2018
It was a frustrating read. I didn't like Tara at all and had no sympathy for her as I think the author wanted us to have. As soon as Desiree moved in with Terrance and Sophie, I saw what was going to happen there. At least I was happy and Terrance didn't fall in fully with her plan. Glad that Sophie, career driven, finally figure out that family was important and that through neglect, she could lose it. Glad that both Tara and Sophie made peace with their fathers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2022
3.5 stars
Interesting, well written book. This book explores the life of two couples and the problems they face in their relationship in regards to family, work and mental health.
I did find both Sophia and Tara a bit ungrateful and entitled but they were realistic characters, despite being somewhat unlikeable.
The ending was very positive. Overall, the book was entertaining. In places, the story was fairly predictable but still enjoyable
Interesting, well written book. This book explores the life of two couples and the problems they face in their relationship in regards to family, work and mental health.
I did find both Sophia and Tara a bit ungrateful and entitled but they were realistic characters, despite being somewhat unlikeable.
The ending was very positive. Overall, the book was entertaining. In places, the story was fairly predictable but still enjoyable
June 29, 2017
This book was written well as the debut for this author showing her skill in dealing with the issues involved in relationships. I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review, and I am so glad that I was. I will definitely be reading more of her work. Check it out.
January 8, 2018
Wonderful read
I loved how this book was put together. Truly a page turner. Read it in two days and the only down was when I finished reading it. This Author certainly knows how to attract readers. It is an easy read. Buy the book - it's worth the money.
I loved how this book was put together. Truly a page turner. Read it in two days and the only down was when I finished reading it. This Author certainly knows how to attract readers. It is an easy read. Buy the book - it's worth the money.
January 11, 2018
Great stoty
Wonderfully written story that shows the rangers of stress when mixed with mental illnesses. Also a great story of two household that are friends but have way different problems happening. Well worth the read.
Wonderfully written story that shows the rangers of stress when mixed with mental illnesses. Also a great story of two household that are friends but have way different problems happening. Well worth the read.
February 14, 2018
Loved this book.
Well written, look forward to reading more books by this author. She writes about real life situations and realistic ways of dealing with them. She has done a good job on researching her topics.
Well written, look forward to reading more books by this author. She writes about real life situations and realistic ways of dealing with them. She has done a good job on researching her topics.
June 23, 2018
Blame ...
Well,I am sorry but there is nothing to recommend this book.
The characters dialog and storyline were plodding and the story wasn't cohesive.
I am relieved that it is over and at least I didn't pay for it.
Well,I am sorry but there is nothing to recommend this book.
The characters dialog and storyline were plodding and the story wasn't cohesive.
I am relieved that it is over and at least I didn't pay for it.
June 27, 2018
True friends Forever
I really enjoyed Blaming the Wind. These two couples had a true bond. They proved that friends are a real blessing and that mistakes can change lives. Hope to read more Alexander Harris.
I really enjoyed Blaming the Wind. These two couples had a true bond. They proved that friends are a real blessing and that mistakes can change lives. Hope to read more Alexander Harris.
August 6, 2018
Awesome loved it my husband is bi polar so it hit home thank you so much
It was a awesome read and hit home with living with a family member with bi polar.Thank you so much hoping their will be a part 2
It was a awesome read and hit home with living with a family member with bi polar.Thank you so much hoping their will be a part 2
December 17, 2017
this was an emotional read. it had twists in it i didnt see.. it had so many emotions and feelings.. it was very well written and the characters tug on your heart.. i am glad i got tor eview it
June 19, 2018
quick easy read, suppressed emotional trauma can do some damage...
July 11, 2018
Two stars
Drawn out story line for sure, but author did decent job of addressing mental health issues through her characters and brought the problem to light
Drawn out story line for sure, but author did decent job of addressing mental health issues through her characters and brought the problem to light
August 18, 2018
I would like to write a review but I’ve already forgotten everything about this book so that IS my review.
July 14, 2022
This tale follows two couples that are best friends and all the dramas that ensue. For the most part the book was great but the ending left me utterly disappointed and wanting more.
April 3, 2023
I enjoyed this book it covers, affairs, parent rejects, bipolar and suicide
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews