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Rose Haldane, Identity Detective #1
Ignoring Gravity
Rose Haldane is confident about her identity. She pulls the same face as her grandfather when she has to do something she doesn’t want to do, she knows her DNA is the same as his. Except it isn’t: because Rose is adopted and doesn’t know it. Ignoring Gravity connects two pairs of sisters separated by a generation of secrets. Finding her mother’s lost diaries, Rose begins to understand why she has always seemed the outsider in her family, why she feels so different from her sister Lily. Then just when she thinks there can’t be any more secrets… This is the first in a series of novels about Rose Haldane, identity detective.
442 pages, Paperback
First published November 21, 2014
46 people are currently reading
729 people want to read
About the author
Sandra Danby
6 books32 followersSandra Danby is a proud Yorkshire woman, tennis nut and tea drinker. She believes a walk on the beach will cure most ills. Unlike Rose Haldane, the identity detective in her two novels, IGNORING GRAVITY and CONNECTEDNESS, Sandra is not adopted.
Rose Haldane, journalist and identity detective, reunites the people lost through adoption. The stories you don’t see on television shows. The difficult cases. The people who cannot be found, who are thought lost forever. In IGNORING GRAVITY, the first of the ‘Identity Detective’ series, journalist Rose Haldane is confident about her identity. She pulls the same face as her grandfather when she has to do something she doesn’t want to do, she knows her DNA is the same as his. Except it isn’t: because Rose is adopted and doesn’t know it. Finding her mother’s lost diaries, Rose begins to understand why she has always seemed the outsider in her family. Then just when she thinks there can’t be any more secrets…
CONNECTEDNESS is the second book in the 'Identity Detective' series. Artist Justine Tree sells her art around the world, but does anyone truly know her? When her mother dies, she returns to her childhood home in Yorkshire where she decides to confront her past. She asks journalist Rose Haldane to find the baby she gave away when she was an art student, but only when Rose starts to ask difficult questions does Justine truly understand what she must face.
Published by Beulah Press, both books are available at Amazon as ebook and paperback.
Member of Society of Authors, Alliance of Independent Authors, RNA NWS member
Rose Haldane, journalist and identity detective, reunites the people lost through adoption. The stories you don’t see on television shows. The difficult cases. The people who cannot be found, who are thought lost forever. In IGNORING GRAVITY, the first of the ‘Identity Detective’ series, journalist Rose Haldane is confident about her identity. She pulls the same face as her grandfather when she has to do something she doesn’t want to do, she knows her DNA is the same as his. Except it isn’t: because Rose is adopted and doesn’t know it. Finding her mother’s lost diaries, Rose begins to understand why she has always seemed the outsider in her family. Then just when she thinks there can’t be any more secrets…
CONNECTEDNESS is the second book in the 'Identity Detective' series. Artist Justine Tree sells her art around the world, but does anyone truly know her? When her mother dies, she returns to her childhood home in Yorkshire where she decides to confront her past. She asks journalist Rose Haldane to find the baby she gave away when she was an art student, but only when Rose starts to ask difficult questions does Justine truly understand what she must face.
Published by Beulah Press, both books are available at Amazon as ebook and paperback.
Member of Society of Authors, Alliance of Independent Authors, RNA NWS member
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
December 13, 2014
This is a story that on the whole I found really enjoyable. Six months after the death of her mother, Rose, in her late 30s, finds out that she is adopted. I really enjoyed the way the author showed how this completely knocked her for six – the shock, anger that she had been lied to all her life, and the frustration that she feels because she cannot ask her mother about the whys and wherefores of what happened. Her father is grieving her mother and she cannot bring herself to question him too deeply. Sister Lily has her own problems, as she is desperately trying to have a baby and feels that time is running out for her. Each sister looks to the other for support and I like the way that the author showed the way it niggled each of them, as they both considered their own problems to be more important than the others. Neither can quite come to terms with what the other is going through.
Rose becomes obsessed with discovering the truth about her birth and we see the search she makes with the help of Lily and her friends, obtaining records, visiting people and questioning them. Where the book didn’t quite work for me, is in showing Rose suddenly almost turning against her adopted family. After all these years, she decides she has been wronged by them and justifies her obsessional search by saying that she has always felt different to them, as if she never really belonged. For part of the read she truly believes that she is going to find her real family, one which will welcome her with open arms. We do have to take her word for it about her feelings about growing up in her family, as the story starts in the present time, with no flash backs, and so I didn’t really connect with Rose in that way. It felt more of a dreamed up excuse to justify what she was doing. Her adopted mother, Diana, in particular is shown in quite a bad way at times, but again we only have Rose’s word for it.
On the whole though, this is a really good, detailed read about the relationships within family, that I really got stuck into and enjoyed. It is nice and easy to read and there is a romantic sub-plot which made enjoyable reading. Having said that, the romance element did maybe feel a little rushed, all the same. Many thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
Rose becomes obsessed with discovering the truth about her birth and we see the search she makes with the help of Lily and her friends, obtaining records, visiting people and questioning them. Where the book didn’t quite work for me, is in showing Rose suddenly almost turning against her adopted family. After all these years, she decides she has been wronged by them and justifies her obsessional search by saying that she has always felt different to them, as if she never really belonged. For part of the read she truly believes that she is going to find her real family, one which will welcome her with open arms. We do have to take her word for it about her feelings about growing up in her family, as the story starts in the present time, with no flash backs, and so I didn’t really connect with Rose in that way. It felt more of a dreamed up excuse to justify what she was doing. Her adopted mother, Diana, in particular is shown in quite a bad way at times, but again we only have Rose’s word for it.
On the whole though, this is a really good, detailed read about the relationships within family, that I really got stuck into and enjoyed. It is nice and easy to read and there is a romantic sub-plot which made enjoyable reading. Having said that, the romance element did maybe feel a little rushed, all the same. Many thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
January 28, 2022
This is yet another book that has been lingering on my TBR shelf and I finally got to it!
Not at all what I expected, I actually enjoyed this book. Rose is a journalist who, with her sister discovers her deceased mother's diaries. Through this Rose learns that she is adopted and immediately feels betrayed by her whole family that this was kept a secret from her.
The story does jump around quite a bit, but I found the whole thread of Rose trying to find her birth parents very plausible.
Not at all what I expected, I actually enjoyed this book. Rose is a journalist who, with her sister discovers her deceased mother's diaries. Through this Rose learns that she is adopted and immediately feels betrayed by her whole family that this was kept a secret from her.
The story does jump around quite a bit, but I found the whole thread of Rose trying to find her birth parents very plausible.
January 5, 2018
I promised myself that for every book that is recent I would then read a book from my TBR pile from the year before, and this is one of them.
It was a quick and easy read because of it being so engrossing, I was reading this while waiting at the doctors, waiting for supper to cook and any little time in between, its surprising how far you can get in one book.
Imagine reaching 30 years old and 6 months after your mother died you learn that you had been adopted. What a shock.
How can she ask her father all the questions that are buzzing around her head?
She has a sister Lily who is struggling to become pregnant and although they try to support each other each are emotional wrapped up within their own problems.
She searches for her #real# family, however, she has rose tinted coloured glasses on and believes everything will work out fine justifying herself along the way.
I found this a great family saga type read with lots of emotion.
My thanks to Beulah Press via Net Galley for my copy
September 14, 2015
I’m going to be honest and admit that I have been procrastinating somewhat when it came to reading this. I’m not entirely sure why that was, but in part I think my mood as of late is to blame. I’ve been procrastination on absolutely everything. Nevertheless, I have sort of pulled myself out of my flunk and decided to get back into reading.
Oh how surprised I was by this book.
I wasn’t really sure what I had been expecting from this book. Part of me had been expecting to hate it, for it to fall into a genre I do not usually read. You see, I’m trying to branch out more with my reading and this was one of those books intended for that purpose. The shocking thing is it was nothing at all like what I’d feared. I’d feared clichés being thrown left right and centre with a huge focus upon romance. Whilst there were some clichés and a focus upon romance neither were as bad as I’d feared it would be.
The story itself is really interesting, taking us through the emotional events of Rose’s life. From the shock of finding out she is adopted to having trouble with work, from having problems connecting with her father to helping her sister deal with her marriage, from a new love interest to the emotional turmoil of all these events piling up, we’re given the full package. I will admit that at times I felt as though events jumped from one thing to the next, yet I think in part that may just be due to the copy I had on my Kindle (I’m sure if I had a paperback copy or one which was not the advance read copy such things would be made much clearer).
I loved where everything went, coming to enjoy all the characters. I felt as though Rose fell in love a bit too quickly, the relationship aspect of her life making me groan a little based upon how I have read it many times before. I also manage to work out who her biological father was in next to no time at all, the big reveal merely confirming my beliefs. Despite these things, I did enjoy it. In fact, I’m of the belief that I may very well read what else is to come in regards to Rose’s story.
Overall a great read.
As a final note, I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this work.
Oh how surprised I was by this book.
I wasn’t really sure what I had been expecting from this book. Part of me had been expecting to hate it, for it to fall into a genre I do not usually read. You see, I’m trying to branch out more with my reading and this was one of those books intended for that purpose. The shocking thing is it was nothing at all like what I’d feared. I’d feared clichés being thrown left right and centre with a huge focus upon romance. Whilst there were some clichés and a focus upon romance neither were as bad as I’d feared it would be.
The story itself is really interesting, taking us through the emotional events of Rose’s life. From the shock of finding out she is adopted to having trouble with work, from having problems connecting with her father to helping her sister deal with her marriage, from a new love interest to the emotional turmoil of all these events piling up, we’re given the full package. I will admit that at times I felt as though events jumped from one thing to the next, yet I think in part that may just be due to the copy I had on my Kindle (I’m sure if I had a paperback copy or one which was not the advance read copy such things would be made much clearer).
I loved where everything went, coming to enjoy all the characters. I felt as though Rose fell in love a bit too quickly, the relationship aspect of her life making me groan a little based upon how I have read it many times before. I also manage to work out who her biological father was in next to no time at all, the big reveal merely confirming my beliefs. Despite these things, I did enjoy it. In fact, I’m of the belief that I may very well read what else is to come in regards to Rose’s story.
Overall a great read.
As a final note, I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this work.
December 2, 2014
Perhaps the best word to describe this book is powerful, but one word is certainly not enough. At first when I read the title I really didn’t know what to expect, but once I was just a few pages in I realised that Ignoring Gravity is the perfect title, in every way. There were so many moments in the book where I had to stop reading and go back to appreciate a particular phrase or sentence. Danby is a talented writer, both on the surface of her writing and on a deeper level.
It is clear that she understands her two main characters, Rose and Lily, inside and out and this allows you to really get lost in their story. This is a story about so many things, but being a mother, a daughter and a sister are certainly at the forefront, and by the end you will be proud to be a woman. I devoured the book in one go, unable to put it down despite the tirade of emotions it brought to the surface. But it doesn’t matter how you choose to read it… as long as you do!
review by Elizabeth A Wright on behalf of BestChickLit.com
It is clear that she understands her two main characters, Rose and Lily, inside and out and this allows you to really get lost in their story. This is a story about so many things, but being a mother, a daughter and a sister are certainly at the forefront, and by the end you will be proud to be a woman. I devoured the book in one go, unable to put it down despite the tirade of emotions it brought to the surface. But it doesn’t matter how you choose to read it… as long as you do!
review by Elizabeth A Wright on behalf of BestChickLit.com
March 31, 2015
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to Beulah Press and NetGalley for providing me with a complimentary e-book copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
My Review: This debut novel is about family and the secrets they hide with a healthy dose of romance. It focuses on a young woman who, after reading her recently deceased mother's diaries, finds out that the family she grew up with may not be her family after all. It's this sudden revelation that spurs Rose to use her investigative skills as a reporter to unearth the truth.
The mystery surrounding Rose's search was what kept me going. Rose's need to find out more about her adoption starts to affect all aspects of her life including her work as a journalist and her relationships with her father and sister, Lily. I wanted to find out who her birth parents were ... and I did. Fairly early on, in fact, because I guessed correctly. Even so it was a good read and I enjoyed seeing my prediction come true.
That said, there were a few things that I wasn't overly fond of, namely the romance aspect. The romance genre isn't my 'thang' and while I do have a heart and like a little bit of romance in a book (and life) it has to feel authentic and believable. That wasn't the case with Rose and her man whose connection seemed to come out of nowhere and, truth be told, felt a little cheesy. It felt like it was thrown into the plot as an after thought to add another layer to Rose but unfortunately took away from the pace of the mystery surrounding her parentage.
Rose and Lily were characters that you could get behind and they both had a frailty to them too which I think helped to endear them to me. Whether it was Lily's fervent desire to have a baby with her obnoxious husband or Rose's need to find out where she came from they were both believable characters and I was rooting for them and their connection to each other.
This book deals with a lot of issues: adoption, family bonds, infertility but I wouldn't say it was an overly heavy or complex read either. I could see it being an enjoyable, easy weekend read.
My Rating: 3/5 stars
****This book review can also be found on my blog, The Baking Bookworm (www.thebakingbookworm.blogspot.ca) where I share hundreds of book reviews and my favourite recipes. ****
My Review: This debut novel is about family and the secrets they hide with a healthy dose of romance. It focuses on a young woman who, after reading her recently deceased mother's diaries, finds out that the family she grew up with may not be her family after all. It's this sudden revelation that spurs Rose to use her investigative skills as a reporter to unearth the truth.
The mystery surrounding Rose's search was what kept me going. Rose's need to find out more about her adoption starts to affect all aspects of her life including her work as a journalist and her relationships with her father and sister, Lily. I wanted to find out who her birth parents were ... and I did. Fairly early on, in fact, because I guessed correctly. Even so it was a good read and I enjoyed seeing my prediction come true.
That said, there were a few things that I wasn't overly fond of, namely the romance aspect. The romance genre isn't my 'thang' and while I do have a heart and like a little bit of romance in a book (and life) it has to feel authentic and believable. That wasn't the case with Rose and her man whose connection seemed to come out of nowhere and, truth be told, felt a little cheesy. It felt like it was thrown into the plot as an after thought to add another layer to Rose but unfortunately took away from the pace of the mystery surrounding her parentage.
Rose and Lily were characters that you could get behind and they both had a frailty to them too which I think helped to endear them to me. Whether it was Lily's fervent desire to have a baby with her obnoxious husband or Rose's need to find out where she came from they were both believable characters and I was rooting for them and their connection to each other.
This book deals with a lot of issues: adoption, family bonds, infertility but I wouldn't say it was an overly heavy or complex read either. I could see it being an enjoyable, easy weekend read.
My Rating: 3/5 stars
****This book review can also be found on my blog, The Baking Bookworm (www.thebakingbookworm.blogspot.ca) where I share hundreds of book reviews and my favourite recipes. ****
December 5, 2014
I was intrigued by this one, the starting point being adoption, as an adopted child myself it appealed to me for that reason. Plus the hint of mystery tempted me in and what I found was a really good read, some great characters and an often emotive look at family relationships.
One of the things that especially appealed to me was the authenticity with which Ms Danby writes about Rose’s reaction to finding she is adopted – her hunt for her “blood” parents takes on an obsessive streak and the very real need she has to understand her origin is beautifully drawn. I speak from experience when I say Rose is not alone in wondering if being adopted had an unknoweable affect on her relationship with her adoptive mother – especially since their relationship was up and down – I have been right there myself.
The relationship between the Sister’s, also subtly altered by this new found knowledge is as well a great strength of the story – all in all the family ties elements of this novel are engaging and appealing and explore the issues around adoption in a very positive and realistic way.
There are some lovely little twists and turns on Rose’s journey to the truth, as we go back to a time where adoption was very different, often surrounded by secrecy, which makes it harder for Rose to find out what she needs to know but she is a determined and very likeable character so you root for her all the way.
Lily also has a voice here and she is just as well drawn and if anything I probably liked her even more. Discovering your Sister is not really your Sister has a profound affect on her as well, at the same time she is dealing with some tough emotional issues as she struggles to get pregnant. With a husband who is seemingly unworried, this thread of the tale is seamlessly woven into the rest and Rose and Lily go on a journey together that is very addictive and will involve you all the way.
All in all a really really great debut that definitely makes me want to see what Ms Danby can come up with next. This will appeal to fans of family drama with authentic real life issues and I would highly recommend it.
One of the things that especially appealed to me was the authenticity with which Ms Danby writes about Rose’s reaction to finding she is adopted – her hunt for her “blood” parents takes on an obsessive streak and the very real need she has to understand her origin is beautifully drawn. I speak from experience when I say Rose is not alone in wondering if being adopted had an unknoweable affect on her relationship with her adoptive mother – especially since their relationship was up and down – I have been right there myself.
The relationship between the Sister’s, also subtly altered by this new found knowledge is as well a great strength of the story – all in all the family ties elements of this novel are engaging and appealing and explore the issues around adoption in a very positive and realistic way.
There are some lovely little twists and turns on Rose’s journey to the truth, as we go back to a time where adoption was very different, often surrounded by secrecy, which makes it harder for Rose to find out what she needs to know but she is a determined and very likeable character so you root for her all the way.
Lily also has a voice here and she is just as well drawn and if anything I probably liked her even more. Discovering your Sister is not really your Sister has a profound affect on her as well, at the same time she is dealing with some tough emotional issues as she struggles to get pregnant. With a husband who is seemingly unworried, this thread of the tale is seamlessly woven into the rest and Rose and Lily go on a journey together that is very addictive and will involve you all the way.
All in all a really really great debut that definitely makes me want to see what Ms Danby can come up with next. This will appeal to fans of family drama with authentic real life issues and I would highly recommend it.
August 22, 2016
Loved this beautiful book about a woman's quest for the truth of her birth, the truth about her parentage. Sensitively handled, this is a beautifully written book. Loved all the characters especially Rose and Lily and Aunt Bizzy. I can't wait for the next in the series. Highly recommended.
January 28, 2015
Posted originally http://www.reviewedthebook.co.uk/2014...
Ignoring Gravity is an emotional, moving tale about two sisters, Rose and Lily, threatened to be torn apart by an adoption they discover, six months after the death of their mother. The novel is mostly told in alternating chapters from Rose and Lily. Whilst going through their mother’s things a little while after cancer killed her, they find her diaries and soon after learn the life-changing news that Rose was adopted and Lily isn’t her sister after all. In a way I was glad this moment happened early on because I struggled to connect with the novel beforehand but once we’re made fully aware of the adoption, the story really picks up.
The underlying theme throughout Ignoring Gravity is relationships – either family relationships or romantic relationships – and I thought the author’s writing was strong and sensitively done. The adoption is of course the main theme here and I was fascinated with learning more about Rose’s real parents, why she was adopted and how her upbringing was affected. I can’t even begin to imagine how it must feel to find out your family isn’t actually your real family after all – though I do know I’d be a complete emotional wreck – and so I loved how, instead of it all being tears and drama, Rose quickly started using her journalistic ability to her strength and began investigating, to discover who she really was. With each secret uncovered, I was gripped and intrigued to learn more. At times I felt Rose was oblivious to how her adoption would affect more people than just her, and at times I thought she came across a bit cold, but then it’s kind of impossible to judge how you’d react to such a situation…
Lily’s story was just as enjoyable to read too. She’s hurting herself, after another failed attempt to become pregnant. Her husband seemed to not care much at all and this only lead to more desperation from Lily, who I couldn’t help but sympathise with. Again, the author wrote Lily’s thoughts and actions with sensitivity and I thought the writing was brave, given that this debut novel tackles some pretty hard-hitting issues. I loved how, though Lily and Rose both had quite different individual issues to work though, their stories interlinked. As Rose is working, her articles and research delve into infertility and as Lily tries to learn more about her struggles to conceive, she finds out things which could help Rose on her way to discovery and so even though they’d lost the relationship name they once had, it was quite touching how they could still help each other. The writing was emotive and expressive and I thought their characters both showed a lot of courage.
There was more to Ignoring Gravity than the adoption but I liked how the author packed a lot into this story without anything distracting from what was such a life changing theme. I loved the introduction of Nick, Rose’s love interest. He seemed like such a considerate, thoughtful character and I liked how as he strived to help Rose, their relationship developed in a kind of low-key, plausible fashion. The twists in this book definitely came into the main storyline, and there were quite a few as you would expect. I thought they were all worked wonderfully in the way that they were captivating, and I found myself as eager to learn about Rose’s biological family as she was herself. There was one twist towards the end that I felt had been coming for a while, and wasn’t as unpredictable as I was hoping it might turn out, but it didn’t really impact how I felt on what was a well-written novel full of real, flawed characters and real feelings. It shows the reader the importance of trust and honesty and I felt it had a satisfying ending which also left me excited to read more from a promising author.
*Book received for honest review.
November 27, 2014
This is Rose Haldane’s story, she is a journalist at the Herald her articles being chiefly of the filler type on beauty products and female medical issues, but Rose has ambition despite her boss’s determination to not only get her name wrong but put her down at every opportunity, even more so when she insults him in front of the team.
Six months after Rose and Lily’s mother Diane dies, they go around to their parent’s home to go through her things for their father John. Going through a box on top of the wardrobe they find some diaries, a flick through these shows that Rose was adopted. This is a huge shock to both women they realise that their differences of opinion on so many subjects are because they are not sisters at all.
Sandra Danby writes a tale that is as much about relationships as it is about Rose’s search for her parentage, a search that quickly becomes an obsession. The relationship between Lily and Rose is subtly altered by this new information and while Lily is trapped in a cycle of longing for a baby Rose is placed in the unenviable position of replacing her mother as a sounding board, a job she feels unequal to not least because Diane and Rose had an uneasy relationship. Could the fact that she was adopted explain this?
Both Rose and Lily are likable characters whilst not being of the sickly sweet variety and combined with a pace that was just right for this kind of tale made for an enjoyable read. The discoveries made by Rose, her relationship with her colleagues as well as a newly-fledged romantic liaison felt entirely realistic. I loved Rose’s desperation to find out more both through the diaries and by interviewing friends of her mother, again a reaction that felt natural. Even better the author allows the reader to put themselves into the character’s shoes, thereby allowing the reading to feel smooth without endless emphasis on how Rose is feeling, what she is thinking etc.
With the contrast between her mother’s life in the sixties and Rose’s in the present day along with a number of twists and turns this was an emotional and enjoyable tale and one that I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read. If this sounds like a tale you would enjoy Ignoring Gravity was published yesterday 21 November 2014 at a bargain price in e-book format at Amazon. The physical copies of this book will be available in January 2015.
Six months after Rose and Lily’s mother Diane dies, they go around to their parent’s home to go through her things for their father John. Going through a box on top of the wardrobe they find some diaries, a flick through these shows that Rose was adopted. This is a huge shock to both women they realise that their differences of opinion on so many subjects are because they are not sisters at all.
Sandra Danby writes a tale that is as much about relationships as it is about Rose’s search for her parentage, a search that quickly becomes an obsession. The relationship between Lily and Rose is subtly altered by this new information and while Lily is trapped in a cycle of longing for a baby Rose is placed in the unenviable position of replacing her mother as a sounding board, a job she feels unequal to not least because Diane and Rose had an uneasy relationship. Could the fact that she was adopted explain this?
Both Rose and Lily are likable characters whilst not being of the sickly sweet variety and combined with a pace that was just right for this kind of tale made for an enjoyable read. The discoveries made by Rose, her relationship with her colleagues as well as a newly-fledged romantic liaison felt entirely realistic. I loved Rose’s desperation to find out more both through the diaries and by interviewing friends of her mother, again a reaction that felt natural. Even better the author allows the reader to put themselves into the character’s shoes, thereby allowing the reading to feel smooth without endless emphasis on how Rose is feeling, what she is thinking etc.
With the contrast between her mother’s life in the sixties and Rose’s in the present day along with a number of twists and turns this was an emotional and enjoyable tale and one that I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read. If this sounds like a tale you would enjoy Ignoring Gravity was published yesterday 21 November 2014 at a bargain price in e-book format at Amazon. The physical copies of this book will be available in January 2015.
Read
December 1, 2014Ignoring Gravity pulls the reader in right from the first pages, following the journalist Rose Haldane, who after the shock of discovering she had been adopted at birth, uses her investigative skills to unearth the mystery surrounding her birth.
She must also deal with the impact of receiving such knowledge without any prior warning, although it gave her fresh insight into the difficult relationship she had with her mother.
Her sister Lily is married to William and works part time, but is pining for a child and trying all kinds of remedies to make it happen. Her neurotic obsession with becoming pregnant masks something that will force her to face up to reality. She too, reads her mothers diaries to be sure of her origins and discovers other revelations that set her mind racing.
It was perhaps a little too fast paced for me, not in terms of reading the book, but in terms of how quickly she makes progress and takes significant steps to find out more about her origins, steps that by necessity mean prying into the private lives of others who have long let sleeping dogs lie.
I found it hard to believe that Rose would be able to absorb and assimilate all that knowledge and move on to the next steps as quickly as she does. In reality it is a long, slow, reflective process, however the revelations in the novel, when they do come are quite brilliantly conceived and although Rose doesn't spend too much time imagining how the circumstances might have come about, she provides sufficient detail for the reader to ponder the situation and to wonder how we might react to such information and confront those who kept it secret.
As someone who was adopted in the same year as the protagonist of this book and been through the process of unravelling the mystery, there were many moments in the book that provoked familiar memories, although naturally everyone's experience is different. It is certainly a book that will invite reflection and discussion, as it is a fascinating and oftentimes controversial subject within our society and within other cultures and how they perceive it.
An engaging read that will provoke much thoughtful reflection and discussion.
My full review here at Word by Word.
She must also deal with the impact of receiving such knowledge without any prior warning, although it gave her fresh insight into the difficult relationship she had with her mother.
Her sister Lily is married to William and works part time, but is pining for a child and trying all kinds of remedies to make it happen. Her neurotic obsession with becoming pregnant masks something that will force her to face up to reality. She too, reads her mothers diaries to be sure of her origins and discovers other revelations that set her mind racing.
It was perhaps a little too fast paced for me, not in terms of reading the book, but in terms of how quickly she makes progress and takes significant steps to find out more about her origins, steps that by necessity mean prying into the private lives of others who have long let sleeping dogs lie.
I found it hard to believe that Rose would be able to absorb and assimilate all that knowledge and move on to the next steps as quickly as she does. In reality it is a long, slow, reflective process, however the revelations in the novel, when they do come are quite brilliantly conceived and although Rose doesn't spend too much time imagining how the circumstances might have come about, she provides sufficient detail for the reader to ponder the situation and to wonder how we might react to such information and confront those who kept it secret.
As someone who was adopted in the same year as the protagonist of this book and been through the process of unravelling the mystery, there were many moments in the book that provoked familiar memories, although naturally everyone's experience is different. It is certainly a book that will invite reflection and discussion, as it is a fascinating and oftentimes controversial subject within our society and within other cultures and how they perceive it.
An engaging read that will provoke much thoughtful reflection and discussion.
My full review here at Word by Word.
November 21, 2014
Rose Haldene is a journalist by day writing for a paper in London. Her mother dies and her father gives her sister Lily and her the task of sorting through their mother’s possessions. The sisters come upon their mother’s journals in a suitcase and Rose starts to read one. It is right there that her world falls apart as she discovers she is adopted. When she finds a photograph of a baby which appears to be her in one of her mother’s handbags she embarks on a journey to find out who she is. Her father, devastated with grief, is unable to help her but is there more to his reluctance than first appearances would suggest? Rose also has a love interest in Nick, a businessman she interviewed for the paper she reports for, and with his help and support she gets lucky and find someone who may be able to help her. Rose can’t settle until she knows who she really is.
Her sister Lily is going through her own emotional turmoil. She wants a baby but her husband William is unwilling to face up to their difficulties in conceiving. Is there a link between her own troubles and her mother’s need to adopt?
Together the sister’s find the answers and uncover more secrets and lies than they ever imagined existed.
I really liked this story. Sandra Danby deals with the emotions surrounding grief, adoption and infertility with a deep understanding of the emotions involved. One of my close family members was adopted and so I could understand Rose’s identity crisis when she discovers she isn’t whom she thought she was. There is a twist at the end which unexpectedly gave me the shivers as I contemplated history repeating itself.
A well written book with a story which will keep you turning the pages. Thoroughly recommended.
Her sister Lily is going through her own emotional turmoil. She wants a baby but her husband William is unwilling to face up to their difficulties in conceiving. Is there a link between her own troubles and her mother’s need to adopt?
Together the sister’s find the answers and uncover more secrets and lies than they ever imagined existed.
I really liked this story. Sandra Danby deals with the emotions surrounding grief, adoption and infertility with a deep understanding of the emotions involved. One of my close family members was adopted and so I could understand Rose’s identity crisis when she discovers she isn’t whom she thought she was. There is a twist at the end which unexpectedly gave me the shivers as I contemplated history repeating itself.
A well written book with a story which will keep you turning the pages. Thoroughly recommended.
March 23, 2015
Whilst helping her sister, Lily, clear their mother’s belongings, Rose finds the diaries that change her perspective on life. Reading them, she discovers she was adopted. As a thirty-something year old journalist, Rose is very aware of how to carry out research and puts her skills to good use as she seeks information about her birth parents. Her adoptive father is traumatised by his wife’s death and tries to avoid all discussions about the past and her adoption, suggesting she doesn’t look into this further. Her sister is so busy trying to get pregnant, she is also not really supportive. The search impacts dramatically on Rose’s life, her work ethic and her relationships with family and friends. It is both a heartbreaking and heart warming tale as she slowly uncovers her true origins, stumbling over many obstacles en route. When she was adopted, the rules were very different to today and this story explores the issues around adoption in a positive and forthright manner.
This is a dramatic story, written in a manner that enable and encourages the reader to empathise with all that Rose is experiencing. The characters are portrayed brilliantly, warts and all, and the discoveries she makes reveal other secrets from the past and will have an impact on all their futures.
I really enjoyed this totally different story and hope to read other works by this author regarding ‘Rose Haldane: Identity Detective’ in the future. This is certainly a book I have no hesitation in highly recommending to anyone who enjoys reading about families experiencing real life issues written in a realistic and easy to relate to manner.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a dramatic story, written in a manner that enable and encourages the reader to empathise with all that Rose is experiencing. The characters are portrayed brilliantly, warts and all, and the discoveries she makes reveal other secrets from the past and will have an impact on all their futures.
I really enjoyed this totally different story and hope to read other works by this author regarding ‘Rose Haldane: Identity Detective’ in the future. This is certainly a book I have no hesitation in highly recommending to anyone who enjoys reading about families experiencing real life issues written in a realistic and easy to relate to manner.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2015
Ignoring Gravity is contemporary fiction, we meet Rose Haldane, a thirty-five year old journalist. She works for the London Herald and is currently working on a couple of projects; an interview with Nick Maddox from Biocare Beauty and an article on early menopause.
Rose's sister Lily is married to William. Lily is trying for a baby to the point of obsession. Their mother has recently passed over and together they are sorting through all her belongings when they discover a set of diaries. Rose is left reeling when she discovers evidence that she was adopted. Her father is struggling with his own grief and is unable to offer Rose the support or the answer she needs.
Going into full scale research mode, Rose begins an adoption search process. She's shocked when she is given a copy of her birth certificate and needs to find more answers to quench her thirst for her new extended family. Both Rose and Lily seek comfort and support as they go on a roller-coaster ride of life. Memories are dug up and old wounds opened and some are finally healed. The final piece of the puzzle slips into place just as Rose decides it's no longer healthy to be so obsessed with her search.
Sandra did a fantastic job writing about all the adoption processes and emotions that would be involved for anyone wanting to find their real parents. I thought the articles that Rose was also writing for work played an important role too. They could have been just some of the reasons why couples adopt children. All in all a really great read.
Rose's sister Lily is married to William. Lily is trying for a baby to the point of obsession. Their mother has recently passed over and together they are sorting through all her belongings when they discover a set of diaries. Rose is left reeling when she discovers evidence that she was adopted. Her father is struggling with his own grief and is unable to offer Rose the support or the answer she needs.
Going into full scale research mode, Rose begins an adoption search process. She's shocked when she is given a copy of her birth certificate and needs to find more answers to quench her thirst for her new extended family. Both Rose and Lily seek comfort and support as they go on a roller-coaster ride of life. Memories are dug up and old wounds opened and some are finally healed. The final piece of the puzzle slips into place just as Rose decides it's no longer healthy to be so obsessed with her search.
Sandra did a fantastic job writing about all the adoption processes and emotions that would be involved for anyone wanting to find their real parents. I thought the articles that Rose was also writing for work played an important role too. They could have been just some of the reasons why couples adopt children. All in all a really great read.
May 22, 2018
It took me a little bit to get into Ignoring Gravity, but once I did, I could not put it down. I loved that this book brought some often difficult issues: infertility, adoption, family relationship, and identity to light. An overall delightful read.
The characters are very well developed. The story has excellent throughput and is well written. It was very easy to connect with Rose, and I wanted to see her find her answers. I rooted for her, and for the encouragement, she got from those around her. The ending was phenomenal, and while you get a sense of satisfaction for the story as a whole, you wish there was a little bit more to read.
My only real gripe is with her sister Lily’s obsession about trying to have a baby to a point that it becomes tiring to read. Some things are revealed later in the book on the subject of Lily conceiving or lack of. That information couldn’t come soon enough for me.
The characters are very well developed. The story has excellent throughput and is well written. It was very easy to connect with Rose, and I wanted to see her find her answers. I rooted for her, and for the encouragement, she got from those around her. The ending was phenomenal, and while you get a sense of satisfaction for the story as a whole, you wish there was a little bit more to read.
My only real gripe is with her sister Lily’s obsession about trying to have a baby to a point that it becomes tiring to read. Some things are revealed later in the book on the subject of Lily conceiving or lack of. That information couldn’t come soon enough for me.
November 21, 2014
Rose Haldane’s world falls apart when she and her sister discover their dead mother’s diaries while sorting through her belongings. It starts a chain of events that catapult Rose through a roller coaster of emotions. Using her journalistic skills Rose starts the search to find out the truth and slowly uncovers events that touch many lives.
Meanwhile Rose’s sister, Lily, is dealing with marriage problems as well as the changing family dynamics.
It’s a fascinating and intriguing tale of family, love, loyalty and new beginnings and pulled me in from the start. There’s a thread of romance running through which doesn’t overshadow the main story of Rose’s search for her true identity.
The characters are well written and developed, real and with flaws, distinct and visual. A very enjoyable and attention holding read.
Meanwhile Rose’s sister, Lily, is dealing with marriage problems as well as the changing family dynamics.
It’s a fascinating and intriguing tale of family, love, loyalty and new beginnings and pulled me in from the start. There’s a thread of romance running through which doesn’t overshadow the main story of Rose’s search for her true identity.
The characters are well written and developed, real and with flaws, distinct and visual. A very enjoyable and attention holding read.
December 1, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed Ignoring Gravity - the depths of the relationships between the characters particularly set it apart although I thought Rose did seem to find (and fall in) love a little too easily. But other than that, it was a fabulous read. I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat desperately wanting her to discover the truth in all the twists and turns throughout. I must admit that I did have an inkling as to who her father was before it was revealed though!
I love that it's about so many things, not just love and family but deep relationships, hurt that has been going on for years, secret adoptions, betrayal and so much more. It unravelled nicely and kept at a really enjoyable steady pace. Sandra Danby is an exceptional writer and I'd definitely like to read more of her work. All in all, a wonderful read.
I love that it's about so many things, not just love and family but deep relationships, hurt that has been going on for years, secret adoptions, betrayal and so much more. It unravelled nicely and kept at a really enjoyable steady pace. Sandra Danby is an exceptional writer and I'd definitely like to read more of her work. All in all, a wonderful read.
May 12, 2015
After her mother dies, Rose discovers that she is adopted after reading some of her diaries. She is in turn shocked, hurt and angry. Her dad is still upset and she doesn’t feel that she can ask him for all the answers.
Her sister is facing her own problems- desperate to start a family. They turn to each other for support- but don’t fully understand just how deeply the other is hurting. Lily is also looking to the diaries for some clues about why she’s finding it difficult to become pregnant.
Rose is desperate to find her natural family and leaves no stone unturned in her quest.
A new relationship is explored along with family relationships under stress.
I enjoyed this one and will be keen to read more by this author.
Many thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book.
Her sister is facing her own problems- desperate to start a family. They turn to each other for support- but don’t fully understand just how deeply the other is hurting. Lily is also looking to the diaries for some clues about why she’s finding it difficult to become pregnant.
Rose is desperate to find her natural family and leaves no stone unturned in her quest.
A new relationship is explored along with family relationships under stress.
I enjoyed this one and will be keen to read more by this author.
Many thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book.
March 27, 2015
It was great to spend time with this story of identity and family secrets. It is well written and Rose Haldane is an engaging character to tag along with as her world is turned upside down by family secrets that emerge after the death of her mother. In fact, the cast of characters are all a pleasure to get to know. This book is not only a chick lit romance, it is also a mystery thriller and, I am pleased to learn, just the first assignment for "Rose Haldane, Identity Detective." I can now look forward to the next volume in the series, and immersing myself again in another episode.
December 10, 2014
3.5 stars. Review to follow
March 21, 2020
A must read
Really great book, Hard to put down, I'm really looking forward to reading the next book (which I've already bought) , Would recommend
Really great book, Hard to put down, I'm really looking forward to reading the next book (which I've already bought) , Would recommend
November 30, 2018
It’s fair to say this isn’t my normal reading. At least, that’s what I thought when I first picked it up. As I became more engrossed in it, I began to wonder if it was anyone’s normal reading – and I mean that in a positive way. It didn’t slot neatly into a particular genre, but that didn’t detract from the story. The fact I became engrossed should be a clue to that. The writing is excellent, drawing you into the story very rapidly and carrying you along for the ride, with believable characters who have very human problems. I did see a twist coming up from a relatively early point, but that didn’t detract from the conclusion which, without being too neat to be true, tied things up nicely. Thoroughly enjoyed it and glad I went for something a little different.
July 20, 2015
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC to me in exchange for an honest review...
Immediately out of the ball park with this book and I'm thinking, "Oh, no.... please tell me this is not a 50 Shades of Gray spin off".... The opening scene depicts a somewhat "green" young journalist, who seems very nervous and lacking in confidence, calming herself down for an interview with a super rich, sexy, young executive who just purchased a multi-million dollar beauty products corporation. Sound familiar? It did to me! I certainly hoped this story would take off in a different direction super fast..... and thank goodness it did.
Rose, our young journalist (and not so green after all), and her younger sister, Lily, quickly took over this story with their personal lives. While the story was featured and described as a connection between the two sisters and family lies, it is, at the same time, much more and much less than that. There are four parallel points of view in this books, Rose's, Lily's, Nick's and Jack's. While all of the perspectives are extremely interesting, this novel seems to have run off with Rose's perspective as the dominating one. Nick's perspective only appeared in the beginning and ending of the book and then we only read about him through Rose's perspective. Lily's perspective pops in and out at random, but does provide extremely interesting insight into her life, her fears, her hopes, and her relationships - both with her husband and her sister, Rose. Finally, Jack's perspective only appears at the end of the novel but provides a lot of missing and much needed details regarding Rose's parental searches. This uneven split actually bothered me because I wanted more story from each perspective - which I'm hoping will come in the future books as this is set up as a series.
There were a few issues that threw me for a loop - more from the writing style then the story itself. For example, there were several locations where the story was progressing nicely, I was reading and involved in what was happening and then.... with no warning.... the scene changes... new situation, new people, completely different everything.... and I'm sitting there thinking, "what just happened?", especially since there was no paragraph change, no chapter change and no warning. This can easily be adjusted and corrected with some formatting and appropriate breaks, but it seemed a bit loopy for me. Another thing that bothered me a bit was Nick's and Rose's romance seemed to have changed from nothing to everything in, like, 3 seconds.... I missed the build up and wished there was a bit more of it. Finally, at times the story seemed to take a leap - a huge one - with no explanation... for example, chapter 43 starts with Rose "escaping the Herald", but in the previous chapter, she got promoted at the Herald.... so..... what happened? She seemed super excited about the promotion, more money and managerial work and then with no explanation or built up.... she resigned... what? More details, Please!
There are many sad parts in this story, but also many good ones. The bond between parents, siblings, grandparents and even lovers is underlined in numerous situations. The sadness and sickness of drug and alcohol abuse is also touched upon within this story. The pain and difficulty behind adoption is a big point here too. Lots of big ideas and difficult issues to be dealt with and I thought that Sandra Danby did a fine job of it overall.
I did like the story as a whole... I thought it was lovely and really enjoyed reading it. The writing is easy to follow and flows smoothly. There were lots of details to explore and I really can't wait for the next book.
Immediately out of the ball park with this book and I'm thinking, "Oh, no.... please tell me this is not a 50 Shades of Gray spin off".... The opening scene depicts a somewhat "green" young journalist, who seems very nervous and lacking in confidence, calming herself down for an interview with a super rich, sexy, young executive who just purchased a multi-million dollar beauty products corporation. Sound familiar? It did to me! I certainly hoped this story would take off in a different direction super fast..... and thank goodness it did.
Rose, our young journalist (and not so green after all), and her younger sister, Lily, quickly took over this story with their personal lives. While the story was featured and described as a connection between the two sisters and family lies, it is, at the same time, much more and much less than that. There are four parallel points of view in this books, Rose's, Lily's, Nick's and Jack's. While all of the perspectives are extremely interesting, this novel seems to have run off with Rose's perspective as the dominating one. Nick's perspective only appeared in the beginning and ending of the book and then we only read about him through Rose's perspective. Lily's perspective pops in and out at random, but does provide extremely interesting insight into her life, her fears, her hopes, and her relationships - both with her husband and her sister, Rose. Finally, Jack's perspective only appears at the end of the novel but provides a lot of missing and much needed details regarding Rose's parental searches. This uneven split actually bothered me because I wanted more story from each perspective - which I'm hoping will come in the future books as this is set up as a series.
There were a few issues that threw me for a loop - more from the writing style then the story itself. For example, there were several locations where the story was progressing nicely, I was reading and involved in what was happening and then.... with no warning.... the scene changes... new situation, new people, completely different everything.... and I'm sitting there thinking, "what just happened?", especially since there was no paragraph change, no chapter change and no warning. This can easily be adjusted and corrected with some formatting and appropriate breaks, but it seemed a bit loopy for me. Another thing that bothered me a bit was Nick's and Rose's romance seemed to have changed from nothing to everything in, like, 3 seconds.... I missed the build up and wished there was a bit more of it. Finally, at times the story seemed to take a leap - a huge one - with no explanation... for example, chapter 43 starts with Rose "escaping the Herald", but in the previous chapter, she got promoted at the Herald.... so..... what happened? She seemed super excited about the promotion, more money and managerial work and then with no explanation or built up.... she resigned... what? More details, Please!
There are many sad parts in this story, but also many good ones. The bond between parents, siblings, grandparents and even lovers is underlined in numerous situations. The sadness and sickness of drug and alcohol abuse is also touched upon within this story. The pain and difficulty behind adoption is a big point here too. Lots of big ideas and difficult issues to be dealt with and I thought that Sandra Danby did a fine job of it overall.
I did like the story as a whole... I thought it was lovely and really enjoyed reading it. The writing is easy to follow and flows smoothly. There were lots of details to explore and I really can't wait for the next book.
September 10, 2015
Rose Haldane is independent, self-reliant, in control of her life and with an eye on the future of her career. Most of all, she is confident about her identity. She pulls the same face as her grandfather when she has to do something she doesn’t want to do, she knows her DNA is the same as his. Rose believes she is a Haldane through and through, even though she is vastly different to her sister Lily, and for that matter, their mother. Rose had a fraught relationship with her mother, never quite living up to her standards, but even though she felt an outsider, it never occurred to Rose that there was more to that than sibling rivalry and personality differences.
Until their mother dies that is, and their father – unable to cope with loss and changing circumstances – leaves it to the two daughters to sort her possessions, never realising that amongst them is a set of diaries that will tear the family apart.
In one breath-taking moment of discovery, Rose learns she is adopted.
I was interested in this story even before Sandra Danby had finished writing it. I have seen first-hand the trauma of “late discovery adoptees”, those who are adults before discovering the secret about their identity that has been with-held from them. In “Ignoring Gravity“, Sandra Danby breaths life into her extensive research on the topic, and how it feels to stumble onto this shattering knowledge.
Rose and her sister Lily are obsessed with their two individual, yet parallel, quests. Lily desperately wants a child, Rose desperately wants to find where she came from. Lily is struggling to connect with her husband, Rose feels a sense of having been set adrift – suddenly without a family of her own. Her father won’t discuss it, her grandmother is hurt and bewildered, Lily and others are impatient for her to stop dredging up the past. You can almost hear people saying: ‘What’s the big deal? We are still your family.’
But Rose feels as if she has “fallen off the edge of the world”, and nothing will be put right until she knows who she was, where she came from, and how she became Rose Haldane. For Rose, the question is: Who am I, exactly?
The search for that answer has many twists and turns, hopes and frustrations. It creates chaos for the Haldane clan, and at one point threatens to destroy the sister’s relationship.
Rose is a journalist by trade, accustomed to following leads and unearthing secrets. She utilises those skills to get to her truth, and along the way, Lily finally comes on board to help. Go along with Rose as she becomes an identity detective. Some other reviewers have suggested they joined the dots early in the piece, others not until the final reveal. Which will you be?
Ignoring Gravity is a debut novel from an author who has done her groundwork in the emotions around adoption and identity, and Sandra Danby carves her believable characters with both their fine points and their flaws. There is also a romantic element, which for my personal interest was always going to be secondary to the identity theme. Ignoring Gravity is a great read for all fans of family drama and relationships, as well as those who may be interested in the core theme in a similar fashion as mine.
Note for my Australian followers: This book is set in England and follows the UK experience of searching for those “lost” in the Adoption process.
Until their mother dies that is, and their father – unable to cope with loss and changing circumstances – leaves it to the two daughters to sort her possessions, never realising that amongst them is a set of diaries that will tear the family apart.
In one breath-taking moment of discovery, Rose learns she is adopted.
I was interested in this story even before Sandra Danby had finished writing it. I have seen first-hand the trauma of “late discovery adoptees”, those who are adults before discovering the secret about their identity that has been with-held from them. In “Ignoring Gravity“, Sandra Danby breaths life into her extensive research on the topic, and how it feels to stumble onto this shattering knowledge.
Rose and her sister Lily are obsessed with their two individual, yet parallel, quests. Lily desperately wants a child, Rose desperately wants to find where she came from. Lily is struggling to connect with her husband, Rose feels a sense of having been set adrift – suddenly without a family of her own. Her father won’t discuss it, her grandmother is hurt and bewildered, Lily and others are impatient for her to stop dredging up the past. You can almost hear people saying: ‘What’s the big deal? We are still your family.’
But Rose feels as if she has “fallen off the edge of the world”, and nothing will be put right until she knows who she was, where she came from, and how she became Rose Haldane. For Rose, the question is: Who am I, exactly?
The search for that answer has many twists and turns, hopes and frustrations. It creates chaos for the Haldane clan, and at one point threatens to destroy the sister’s relationship.
Rose is a journalist by trade, accustomed to following leads and unearthing secrets. She utilises those skills to get to her truth, and along the way, Lily finally comes on board to help. Go along with Rose as she becomes an identity detective. Some other reviewers have suggested they joined the dots early in the piece, others not until the final reveal. Which will you be?
Ignoring Gravity is a debut novel from an author who has done her groundwork in the emotions around adoption and identity, and Sandra Danby carves her believable characters with both their fine points and their flaws. There is also a romantic element, which for my personal interest was always going to be secondary to the identity theme. Ignoring Gravity is a great read for all fans of family drama and relationships, as well as those who may be interested in the core theme in a similar fashion as mine.
Note for my Australian followers: This book is set in England and follows the UK experience of searching for those “lost” in the Adoption process.
Read
July 18, 2016"I've been surrounded by lies all my life, who can you trust if your parents lie to you?"
Meet Rose; confident, self assured, grounded and a woman who knows who she is. Except she doesn't. While clearing out her mother's belongings following her death, Rose comes across her mum's diaries. At first she enjoys reading the extracts, entertained by her mum's young voice which is so different from the adult character Rose knew and loved. But, as she reads on she discovers a deep secret. Rose is adopted. All that she thought was true is in fact a lie.
Rose, a journalist, sets out to uncover the truth about her family in a very practical manner as if it was a research project from work. She is methodical and thorough even when what she uncovers is confusing and upsetting. The reader is with her every step of the way.
Rose can be quite sharp and caustic at times which reflects her trauma from not discovering that she is adopted until she is an adult. She feels deceived and let down by her family. It affects her relationship with her father and her sister. She has to deal with her bitterness and jealousy:"If I was so special, why have you never told me?"
I liked her references to literature as she tried to come to terms with her past:
"Reading Harry Potter made two things clear. First don't believe everything people tell you about your parents. Second, never trust your initial assumptions."
The revelations affect everyone close to Rose and Danby's story has several twists and turns. As Rose's friend observes, "You've really unleashed the genie haven't you?" As more secrets and revelations present themselves, Rose struggles to come to terms with the truth she is uncovering.
Alongside this thread is another storyline concerning Rose's sister, Lily, who is desperate for a baby. The book explores her heartbreak, hopefulness and roller coaster of emotions as she tries to work out why she is having so much trouble conceiving. The suggestion that it might be heredity again reflects Danby's interest in families, inheritance, nature v nurture and the importance of knowing where you come from and where you belong.
This is a book which deals with a lot of complex, sensitive emotional issues. As well as topics such as pregnancy, menopause and adoption, it also includes themes of jealousy, rivalry, obsession and love. Danby must have spent a great deal of time researching both main plot lines to be able to explain adoption and infertility in the depth and detail that she does.
Danby plans to continue the story introduced in "Ignoring Gravity", featuring Rose as an "Identity Detective". I think her writing will become stronger as her series progresses. In this novel, both Lily and Rose are very obsessive in their quests which at times, for me, became a little overwhelming. I think this book will definitely appeal to anyone who has experienced adoption or enjoys novels about family issues. The reviews on Goodreads are very impressive with an array of 5* ratings.
Thank you so much to Sandra Danby for sending me a copy of her novel in return for a fair and honest review. I wish her all the luck with the second instalment her series and the continuing story of Rose.
Meet Rose; confident, self assured, grounded and a woman who knows who she is. Except she doesn't. While clearing out her mother's belongings following her death, Rose comes across her mum's diaries. At first she enjoys reading the extracts, entertained by her mum's young voice which is so different from the adult character Rose knew and loved. But, as she reads on she discovers a deep secret. Rose is adopted. All that she thought was true is in fact a lie.
Rose, a journalist, sets out to uncover the truth about her family in a very practical manner as if it was a research project from work. She is methodical and thorough even when what she uncovers is confusing and upsetting. The reader is with her every step of the way.
Rose can be quite sharp and caustic at times which reflects her trauma from not discovering that she is adopted until she is an adult. She feels deceived and let down by her family. It affects her relationship with her father and her sister. She has to deal with her bitterness and jealousy:"If I was so special, why have you never told me?"
I liked her references to literature as she tried to come to terms with her past:
"Reading Harry Potter made two things clear. First don't believe everything people tell you about your parents. Second, never trust your initial assumptions."
The revelations affect everyone close to Rose and Danby's story has several twists and turns. As Rose's friend observes, "You've really unleashed the genie haven't you?" As more secrets and revelations present themselves, Rose struggles to come to terms with the truth she is uncovering.
Alongside this thread is another storyline concerning Rose's sister, Lily, who is desperate for a baby. The book explores her heartbreak, hopefulness and roller coaster of emotions as she tries to work out why she is having so much trouble conceiving. The suggestion that it might be heredity again reflects Danby's interest in families, inheritance, nature v nurture and the importance of knowing where you come from and where you belong.
This is a book which deals with a lot of complex, sensitive emotional issues. As well as topics such as pregnancy, menopause and adoption, it also includes themes of jealousy, rivalry, obsession and love. Danby must have spent a great deal of time researching both main plot lines to be able to explain adoption and infertility in the depth and detail that she does.
Danby plans to continue the story introduced in "Ignoring Gravity", featuring Rose as an "Identity Detective". I think her writing will become stronger as her series progresses. In this novel, both Lily and Rose are very obsessive in their quests which at times, for me, became a little overwhelming. I think this book will definitely appeal to anyone who has experienced adoption or enjoys novels about family issues. The reviews on Goodreads are very impressive with an array of 5* ratings.
Thank you so much to Sandra Danby for sending me a copy of her novel in return for a fair and honest review. I wish her all the luck with the second instalment her series and the continuing story of Rose.
November 14, 2014
First posted on Dreaming With Open Eyes
I kindly received Ignoring Gravity in exchange of an honest review by the author.
From time to time it's a great change for me to accept a review request of a book I usually wouldn't pick up at the bookstore. I'm always very delighted when this book turnes out to be such a surprising, wonderful read. The book is due to be published on 21st November and is Sandra Danby’s debut novel.
Rose Haldane is a young journalist, who works in London. She is single and happy with her life in Wimbledon and her cat Brad. After several relationships she was not lucky meeting her Mr. Right yet. Her sister Lily on the other hand is married and although she doesn’t admit it at first, this is not a very happy marriage. She is desperate for a baby and is trying everything to get pregnant. Lily's husband husband Wiliam is less than keen on that. Lily thinks every women is incomplete until she has a baby.
Rose and Lily's mother Diana has recently passed away because of breast cancer. After her death the two sisters start to tiding up her belongings. They stumble across a set of diaries her mother had written when she was young woman. Rose and Lily get curious. They want to know how her life was like in the sixties so they start to read her diaries. Rose wouldn't have imigined that reading her mothers diaries will change her life forever. Rose found out the shocking news that she was adopted. Her world collapes and she simply doesn't know what to do. Now she knew why she always felt out of step with the Haldanes. She always liked different things, had different ambitions. Why didn't her birth parents keep her? So many questions she wanted to be answered. Then she becomes a journalist and researches her family history. Adoption in the sixities was very different. It was surrounded by secrecy which makes her research very difficult. Rose is going on an rollercoaster journey finding her real identity.
What a brilliant read this was! This book really surprised me. The story is very well written. It's emontinal and very captivating. Danby is a fantastic storyteller and she knows how to really make you feel the emotions of the character. I enjoyed reading the story out of Rose and Lily's point of view. It's always interesting to get inside the characters head and find out what they are thinking.
The writing style, the characters, the story, and all of twists that are thrown in make the book a delight to read. I was intrigued in the book from the very first few pages. Ignoring Gravity is a wonderful page tuner. I was rooting for Rose through the whole book. I was thrilled to finding out where she comes from, who her real parents are, what were their reason to give her away. I hardly put it down. A thoroughly enjoyable read with a really strong message! I highly recommend this book.
Just a little side note: I loved the mention of the Harry Potter books :-)
I kindly received Ignoring Gravity in exchange of an honest review by the author.
From time to time it's a great change for me to accept a review request of a book I usually wouldn't pick up at the bookstore. I'm always very delighted when this book turnes out to be such a surprising, wonderful read. The book is due to be published on 21st November and is Sandra Danby’s debut novel.
Rose Haldane is a young journalist, who works in London. She is single and happy with her life in Wimbledon and her cat Brad. After several relationships she was not lucky meeting her Mr. Right yet. Her sister Lily on the other hand is married and although she doesn’t admit it at first, this is not a very happy marriage. She is desperate for a baby and is trying everything to get pregnant. Lily's husband husband Wiliam is less than keen on that. Lily thinks every women is incomplete until she has a baby.
Rose and Lily's mother Diana has recently passed away because of breast cancer. After her death the two sisters start to tiding up her belongings. They stumble across a set of diaries her mother had written when she was young woman. Rose and Lily get curious. They want to know how her life was like in the sixties so they start to read her diaries. Rose wouldn't have imigined that reading her mothers diaries will change her life forever. Rose found out the shocking news that she was adopted. Her world collapes and she simply doesn't know what to do. Now she knew why she always felt out of step with the Haldanes. She always liked different things, had different ambitions. Why didn't her birth parents keep her? So many questions she wanted to be answered. Then she becomes a journalist and researches her family history. Adoption in the sixities was very different. It was surrounded by secrecy which makes her research very difficult. Rose is going on an rollercoaster journey finding her real identity.
What a brilliant read this was! This book really surprised me. The story is very well written. It's emontinal and very captivating. Danby is a fantastic storyteller and she knows how to really make you feel the emotions of the character. I enjoyed reading the story out of Rose and Lily's point of view. It's always interesting to get inside the characters head and find out what they are thinking.
The writing style, the characters, the story, and all of twists that are thrown in make the book a delight to read. I was intrigued in the book from the very first few pages. Ignoring Gravity is a wonderful page tuner. I was rooting for Rose through the whole book. I was thrilled to finding out where she comes from, who her real parents are, what were their reason to give her away. I hardly put it down. A thoroughly enjoyable read with a really strong message! I highly recommend this book.
Just a little side note: I loved the mention of the Harry Potter books :-)
June 16, 2015
Please check out all of my reviews at http://ultraviolentlit.blogspot.ca!
This novel was disappointing right from the start. The plot had great potential, but from page one the writing was rushed, with no clear backstory for any of the characters, making it impossible to get emotionally involved. The opening interview scene between Rose and Nick, which should have been their adorable first meeting and precursor to romance, instead felt like a poorly done rip-off of Fifty Shades of Grey. My first impression of all the main characters was that they were completely unlikeable, and because of this I just couldn’t bring myself to care what happened to them next. And really, I’m all for an unlikeable character, but they must be well-written to hold my interest.
The whole plot was filled with melodrama and unnecessary misunderstandings. Rose and her sister Lily’s mother passes away, and they find a journal in which it is clear that Rose was adopted. Instead of considering the feelings of her remaining family, such as her bumbling father and sweet grandmother, thirty-five-year-old Rose acts like a petulant child, suddenly deciding that her adoptive family was awful and they punished her by raising her with love and affection when her birth mother could not. Rose seems to make choices out of anger without any real justification or even giving us any insight into her motivations. She acts out of anger but gives the reader no information on why she is so angry.
Meanwhile, Lily is living with an emotionally abusive husband, but she seems to be okay with that. She has no real individuality, and just takes on her personality from the other characters around her. In fact, some chapters are just lists of what Lily did that day, including a list of groceries purchased. She was very two-dimensional with no information to show us who she really is.
Rose’s romance with Nick is really just a plot device so she has someone to complain to about how horrible her life is. She begins to refer to herself as an orphan, identifying with Jane Eyre and Pip from Great Expectations. It’s very dramatic and over the top, I just couldn’t take her seriously. At one point, she whines to Lily, “I didn’t ask to be adopted, it happened to me. I’m the victim here.” (Loc. 1900). Yes, it’s horrible that your adoptive parents removed you from a potentially dangerous situation with an unfit mother and raised you as part of a happy family. At this point, I completely lost interest in Rose and her story.
If Rose was fifteen instead of thirty-five and this was advertised as a young adult novel, I could maybe forgive the whiny tone and poorly written characters. As it is, Rose was completely unlikeable and unsympathetic. I’m giving this novel two stars instead of one because I want to give the author the benefit of the doubt that there is more to the story here than I was able to see. Apparently this is the first in a series, and I will not be reading more.
I received this novel from Netgalley and Beulah Press in exchange for an honest review.
This novel was disappointing right from the start. The plot had great potential, but from page one the writing was rushed, with no clear backstory for any of the characters, making it impossible to get emotionally involved. The opening interview scene between Rose and Nick, which should have been their adorable first meeting and precursor to romance, instead felt like a poorly done rip-off of Fifty Shades of Grey. My first impression of all the main characters was that they were completely unlikeable, and because of this I just couldn’t bring myself to care what happened to them next. And really, I’m all for an unlikeable character, but they must be well-written to hold my interest.
The whole plot was filled with melodrama and unnecessary misunderstandings. Rose and her sister Lily’s mother passes away, and they find a journal in which it is clear that Rose was adopted. Instead of considering the feelings of her remaining family, such as her bumbling father and sweet grandmother, thirty-five-year-old Rose acts like a petulant child, suddenly deciding that her adoptive family was awful and they punished her by raising her with love and affection when her birth mother could not. Rose seems to make choices out of anger without any real justification or even giving us any insight into her motivations. She acts out of anger but gives the reader no information on why she is so angry.
Meanwhile, Lily is living with an emotionally abusive husband, but she seems to be okay with that. She has no real individuality, and just takes on her personality from the other characters around her. In fact, some chapters are just lists of what Lily did that day, including a list of groceries purchased. She was very two-dimensional with no information to show us who she really is.
Rose’s romance with Nick is really just a plot device so she has someone to complain to about how horrible her life is. She begins to refer to herself as an orphan, identifying with Jane Eyre and Pip from Great Expectations. It’s very dramatic and over the top, I just couldn’t take her seriously. At one point, she whines to Lily, “I didn’t ask to be adopted, it happened to me. I’m the victim here.” (Loc. 1900). Yes, it’s horrible that your adoptive parents removed you from a potentially dangerous situation with an unfit mother and raised you as part of a happy family. At this point, I completely lost interest in Rose and her story.
If Rose was fifteen instead of thirty-five and this was advertised as a young adult novel, I could maybe forgive the whiny tone and poorly written characters. As it is, Rose was completely unlikeable and unsympathetic. I’m giving this novel two stars instead of one because I want to give the author the benefit of the doubt that there is more to the story here than I was able to see. Apparently this is the first in a series, and I will not be reading more.
I received this novel from Netgalley and Beulah Press in exchange for an honest review.
January 16, 2015
Review for Chick Lit Central (www. chicklitcentral.com)
There were two primary reasons I felt drawn to Ignoring Gravity. The close relationship I have with my younger sister, number one. The second reason: there was a brief time during my childhood where I was convinced I was adopted. This paranoia was brought on by a passing joke my paternal grandmother told to a friend of hers, not knowing I was in the other room and had heard every word. She told her friend that I must be the mail man’s child, because at eight years old, I didn’t look at all like my father or other relatives in my family. When I heard that, I took it seriously and began to question who my real father was and my identity. A lot to take on when you’re a child, yet it’s a lot to take on for anyone, even for an adult like Rose Haldane.
Rose Haldane is confident about her identity. She pulls the same face as her grandfather when she has to do something she doesn’t want to do, she knows her DNA is the same as his. Except it isn’t: because Rose is adopted and doesn’t know it.
Ignoring Gravity connects two pairs of sisters separated by a generation of secrets. Finding her mother’s lost diaries, Rose begins to understand why she has always seemed the outsider in her family, why she feels so different from her sister Lily. Then just when she thinks there can’t be any more secrets…(Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads)
After Rose discovers the truth, she makes it her mission in finding out who her biological parents are. In doing so, she creates a lot of chaos within her relationships, primarily with Lily, who is dealing with family drama of her own. Should Rose back down and accept the life she has been given, or should she continue to seek out the life she may have had? The bigger question: Who is Rose, exactly?
I really enjoyed all of the twists and turns that accompanied the characters in this book. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, and knew who Rose’s parents were, the plot would take a sharp detour. I really felt as though I was with Rose on this journey of self-discovery, and when she finally unravels the secrets that have been decades in the making, I was as shocked as she was.
Looking back at my own family photos, it’s quite apparent that I’m my father’s daughter, especially now that I’m a grown-up. We look a lot more alike than I’d ever thought possible. I think for Rose and her family, she will always be a true Haldane, no matter what the outcome. Family is family, and it’s what (and who) you make of it that counts the most. A fantastic read!
There were two primary reasons I felt drawn to Ignoring Gravity. The close relationship I have with my younger sister, number one. The second reason: there was a brief time during my childhood where I was convinced I was adopted. This paranoia was brought on by a passing joke my paternal grandmother told to a friend of hers, not knowing I was in the other room and had heard every word. She told her friend that I must be the mail man’s child, because at eight years old, I didn’t look at all like my father or other relatives in my family. When I heard that, I took it seriously and began to question who my real father was and my identity. A lot to take on when you’re a child, yet it’s a lot to take on for anyone, even for an adult like Rose Haldane.
Rose Haldane is confident about her identity. She pulls the same face as her grandfather when she has to do something she doesn’t want to do, she knows her DNA is the same as his. Except it isn’t: because Rose is adopted and doesn’t know it.
Ignoring Gravity connects two pairs of sisters separated by a generation of secrets. Finding her mother’s lost diaries, Rose begins to understand why she has always seemed the outsider in her family, why she feels so different from her sister Lily. Then just when she thinks there can’t be any more secrets…(Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads)
After Rose discovers the truth, she makes it her mission in finding out who her biological parents are. In doing so, she creates a lot of chaos within her relationships, primarily with Lily, who is dealing with family drama of her own. Should Rose back down and accept the life she has been given, or should she continue to seek out the life she may have had? The bigger question: Who is Rose, exactly?
I really enjoyed all of the twists and turns that accompanied the characters in this book. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, and knew who Rose’s parents were, the plot would take a sharp detour. I really felt as though I was with Rose on this journey of self-discovery, and when she finally unravels the secrets that have been decades in the making, I was as shocked as she was.
Looking back at my own family photos, it’s quite apparent that I’m my father’s daughter, especially now that I’m a grown-up. We look a lot more alike than I’d ever thought possible. I think for Rose and her family, she will always be a true Haldane, no matter what the outcome. Family is family, and it’s what (and who) you make of it that counts the most. A fantastic read!
January 17, 2015
When I first heard about this book, I did not think that the topic of identity would catch my interest. Then, when it became available, I decided to give it a chance and was quickly drawn into the story and character Rose.
Why, of course, our identity – our genetic makeup, our reality of who our biological parents are is a topic every human being can appreciate. What if, like Rose, our very DNA origins were called into question? What if, like Rose, we suddenly woke up to find out our parents were not really our blood relatives, and that our whole life, as we understand it to be, may be a lie? The experience of Rose, and the secrets that become revealed to her in this book will make you want to turn the pages.
There is excellent character development of Rose, her approach to the shocking secrets she discovers, and her journey of uncovering the truths. The author is a talented storyteller and paints wonderful settings and real-life social situations with the characters that will pull you into their worlds. You’ll really care about Rose and her dilemma. You’ll want to get to know her and find out more about what makes her tick. I was able to put myself in Rose’s situation and wondered about the big what if? questions that she faces, that turn her world upside down.
I really regretted when I actually finished reading this book, and for the final chapters I read more slowly – to make it last.
I would say the only bits that I found a bit icky in this book were talk of menopause issues, but the author carries this side-line part of the story along well, and ties it into context and character development in the end. Ultimately, I think the topic fits well with women’s fiction genre and this is definitely a book geared for a female audience. Although, the identity topic may appeal to anyone who is in similar situations and exploring the roots of their own genetic heritage. And the pacing and story will appeal to anyone who just enjoys a good book.
Also, I would note that this book is very British in style – and some of the references in it may go over your head unless you are very familiar with life in the UK. However, it is just little things mentioned and nothing that will confuse you or detract from the storyline.
I totally grant this book 5 stars without hesitation. Enjoy!
Why, of course, our identity – our genetic makeup, our reality of who our biological parents are is a topic every human being can appreciate. What if, like Rose, our very DNA origins were called into question? What if, like Rose, we suddenly woke up to find out our parents were not really our blood relatives, and that our whole life, as we understand it to be, may be a lie? The experience of Rose, and the secrets that become revealed to her in this book will make you want to turn the pages.
There is excellent character development of Rose, her approach to the shocking secrets she discovers, and her journey of uncovering the truths. The author is a talented storyteller and paints wonderful settings and real-life social situations with the characters that will pull you into their worlds. You’ll really care about Rose and her dilemma. You’ll want to get to know her and find out more about what makes her tick. I was able to put myself in Rose’s situation and wondered about the big what if? questions that she faces, that turn her world upside down.
I really regretted when I actually finished reading this book, and for the final chapters I read more slowly – to make it last.
I would say the only bits that I found a bit icky in this book were talk of menopause issues, but the author carries this side-line part of the story along well, and ties it into context and character development in the end. Ultimately, I think the topic fits well with women’s fiction genre and this is definitely a book geared for a female audience. Although, the identity topic may appeal to anyone who is in similar situations and exploring the roots of their own genetic heritage. And the pacing and story will appeal to anyone who just enjoys a good book.
Also, I would note that this book is very British in style – and some of the references in it may go over your head unless you are very familiar with life in the UK. However, it is just little things mentioned and nothing that will confuse you or detract from the storyline.
I totally grant this book 5 stars without hesitation. Enjoy!
February 25, 2015
Check out this review and more at https://throwmeabook.wordpress.com/
Six months after the death of their mother Diane, Rose and her sister Lily are cleaning out their mother’s closet and come across a suitcase full of old diaries. Paging through them, Rose comes upon an entry involving her birth and discovers that she was adopted. Stunned, shocked and questioning her identity, Rose searches for answers from her father, who would rather drown his feelings in beer, and her grandmother, who had a difficult relationship with Diane and is unable to give Rose much information. Unsatisfied, Rose decides to take matters into her own hands and find her birth parents.
Her sister Lily, obsessed with having a baby, is worried about why she is not pregnant yet. Unable to talk to her emotionally distant husband William concerning her fears, she too turns to her mother’s diaries for comfort and perhaps some glimpse into the possible reason for her inability to have a baby. What Lily discovers within those pages will alter her view of herself as well as her marriage.
Blending mystery and romance, Ignoring Gravity takes a light-hearted view of some difficult issues such as adoption and identity, family relationships and family dynamics. I enjoyed this book and read it almost in one sitting. Although I thought Rose was being a little harsh towards her family once she found out she was adopted, almost to the point of shunning them as if they were nothing to her, I liked some of the ideas brought up in the book, in particular the idea of what makes people a family. Is it blood relations or in fact the act of sharing ordinary as well as special moments, celebrating each other’s successes and surviving failures, and through it all loving and respecting each other. The first book of the Rose Haldane: Identity Detective series, it serves as an introduction to a cast of characters that I look forward to reading about in the next installment of the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beulah Press for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Six months after the death of their mother Diane, Rose and her sister Lily are cleaning out their mother’s closet and come across a suitcase full of old diaries. Paging through them, Rose comes upon an entry involving her birth and discovers that she was adopted. Stunned, shocked and questioning her identity, Rose searches for answers from her father, who would rather drown his feelings in beer, and her grandmother, who had a difficult relationship with Diane and is unable to give Rose much information. Unsatisfied, Rose decides to take matters into her own hands and find her birth parents.
Her sister Lily, obsessed with having a baby, is worried about why she is not pregnant yet. Unable to talk to her emotionally distant husband William concerning her fears, she too turns to her mother’s diaries for comfort and perhaps some glimpse into the possible reason for her inability to have a baby. What Lily discovers within those pages will alter her view of herself as well as her marriage.
Blending mystery and romance, Ignoring Gravity takes a light-hearted view of some difficult issues such as adoption and identity, family relationships and family dynamics. I enjoyed this book and read it almost in one sitting. Although I thought Rose was being a little harsh towards her family once she found out she was adopted, almost to the point of shunning them as if they were nothing to her, I liked some of the ideas brought up in the book, in particular the idea of what makes people a family. Is it blood relations or in fact the act of sharing ordinary as well as special moments, celebrating each other’s successes and surviving failures, and through it all loving and respecting each other. The first book of the Rose Haldane: Identity Detective series, it serves as an introduction to a cast of characters that I look forward to reading about in the next installment of the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beulah Press for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
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