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Alice Anyway
FIRST PLACE GRAND PRIZE WINNER FOR FICTION
2026 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
#1 Amazon Bestseller
Eighteen-year-old Alice had been taught to stay quiet.
Then a blue-eyed stranger came carrying scripture and words that sounded like love.
He promised to protect her.
Instead, he began to decide who she was allowed to be.
In the Appalachian hills of the 1940s, Alice has spent her life watching, listening, and keeping her thoughts to herself. After grief leaves her alone on the family homestead, a stranger offers the comfort she has never known.
At first, his attention feels like belonging.
Then comfort becomes obedience.
What begins with scripture and tenderness draws Alice into a world where faith is used to control, questions are dangerous, and a woman’s place is decided for her.
The smaller Alice becomes, the more she begins to understand what she is losing.
To claim her life, she will have to risk the only security she has left.
Set among the remote mountain communities of The Glens, Alice Anyway is a deeply immersive Appalachian novel about faith, control, survival, and the quiet courage it takes to choose your own life.
Perfect for readers of Where the Crawdads Sing, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek, and The Poisonwood Bible.
Also by Brenda K. Thompson: A Feed Sack Dress for Sadie, Ivaleena, and Child H.
2026 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
#1 Amazon Bestseller
Eighteen-year-old Alice had been taught to stay quiet.
Then a blue-eyed stranger came carrying scripture and words that sounded like love.
He promised to protect her.
Instead, he began to decide who she was allowed to be.
In the Appalachian hills of the 1940s, Alice has spent her life watching, listening, and keeping her thoughts to herself. After grief leaves her alone on the family homestead, a stranger offers the comfort she has never known.
At first, his attention feels like belonging.
Then comfort becomes obedience.
What begins with scripture and tenderness draws Alice into a world where faith is used to control, questions are dangerous, and a woman’s place is decided for her.
The smaller Alice becomes, the more she begins to understand what she is losing.
To claim her life, she will have to risk the only security she has left.
Set among the remote mountain communities of The Glens, Alice Anyway is a deeply immersive Appalachian novel about faith, control, survival, and the quiet courage it takes to choose your own life.
Perfect for readers of Where the Crawdads Sing, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek, and The Poisonwood Bible.
Also by Brenda K. Thompson: A Feed Sack Dress for Sadie, Ivaleena, and Child H.
427 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2025
About the author
Brenda K. Thompson
5 books38 followersI’m Brenda K. Thompson, Grand Prize-winning author of Alice Anyway and the Appalachian novels Ivaleena, A Feed Sack Dress for Sadie, and Child H. I write emotionally resonant fiction about resilience, identity, belonging, and the quiet courage it takes to claim one’s own life. My stories are meant to be lived in.
My debut novel, Alice Anyway, was named the 2026 Next Generation Indie Book Awards First Place Grand Prize Winner for Fiction. It also won First Novel (70,000–90,000 words) and was named a finalist in Female Empowerment. The novel became a #1 Amazon Bestseller in Women’s Historical Fiction, Historical Literary Fiction, and Women’s Literary Fiction.
Ivaleena unfolds beneath the canvas of a traveling carnival, where illusion and identity become difficult to separate. A Feed Sack Dress for Sadie follows a stolen child who survives to build a life of her own. My newest novel, Child H, begins in 1898 Appalachia with six-year-old Hannah Campbell and a house gone strange.
Before writing fiction, I spent years on Wall Street and later founded Special “Finds…” Unique Property Marketing. Both taught me how deeply story and place shape the way we see the world.
My husband, Jim, nearly always finds his way into one of my characters. Sometimes the two of us appear together, though we may be the only ones who recognize us.
I’m grateful for every reader who enters these stories, spends time with the people inside them, and carries something of them away.
My debut novel, Alice Anyway, was named the 2026 Next Generation Indie Book Awards First Place Grand Prize Winner for Fiction. It also won First Novel (70,000–90,000 words) and was named a finalist in Female Empowerment. The novel became a #1 Amazon Bestseller in Women’s Historical Fiction, Historical Literary Fiction, and Women’s Literary Fiction.
Ivaleena unfolds beneath the canvas of a traveling carnival, where illusion and identity become difficult to separate. A Feed Sack Dress for Sadie follows a stolen child who survives to build a life of her own. My newest novel, Child H, begins in 1898 Appalachia with six-year-old Hannah Campbell and a house gone strange.
Before writing fiction, I spent years on Wall Street and later founded Special “Finds…” Unique Property Marketing. Both taught me how deeply story and place shape the way we see the world.
My husband, Jim, nearly always finds his way into one of my characters. Sometimes the two of us appear together, though we may be the only ones who recognize us.
I’m grateful for every reader who enters these stories, spends time with the people inside them, and carries something of them away.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 4, 2025
Excellent debut novel set in mid-twentieth century Appalachia. The plot was compelling, and the character development was convincing and impactful; but, more than that, the writing was so lyrical that I reread whole paragraphs in appreciation of the fantastic writing. I'll be looking forward to more books by this author. This would be a good book club choice.
December 29, 2025
What a story of resilience. If you liked where the Crawdads Sing this book will be right up your ally.
You will be angry. You will feel sad. You will be rooting so hard for our FMC to get the happy ending she deserves.
I loved being transported to Appalachia and experiencing what life was like then and how different things are now.
You will be angry. You will feel sad. You will be rooting so hard for our FMC to get the happy ending she deserves.
I loved being transported to Appalachia and experiencing what life was like then and how different things are now.
October 5, 2025
Alice Anyway is a touching and deeply human portrayal of a young woman navigating life in the rugged green highlands of mid-twentieth-century America. After a significant loss following a mostly supportive childhood, she sees herself as somewhat vulnerable to the ways of the world and attracted to a small, devout community determined to shield its people from such ‘ways’, or what it considers corrupted values.
Alice finds stability and promise in a man who offers safety, security, and scripture. On the surface, such a life seems familiar and comforting. It seems a quietly sanctioned path forward, pre-ordained and proper, a pattern she has been taught to believe is both normal and natural.
Alice is a solitary soul, deeply introspective and quietly attuned to the rhythms of her world. Refusing to get caught up in distractions, she takes time to recognise what is unfolding around her. Thompson reveals the pervasive and ongoing tension between traditional wisdom and authentic awakening. Going with the flow in a small community has all the appearances of wisdom, of having everything worked out, but is devoid of real agency.
The novel’s world comprises revival tents, women’s meetings, and Sunday sermons and becomes the stage for this inner coming-of-age tale. It’s a setting where faith and fear often share the same pew, and where obedience is mistaken for virtue.
The front cover depicts Alice holding a mini terrarium, a strong metaphor that threads through the entire story. I loved the way that Alice’s creativity and focus on creating living ecosystems in jars was both a creative outlet and a doorway to her future. Building a beautiful piece of living artwork can be an activating spark for authoring one's own destiny. Likewise, I loved the theme of time, as conveyed through clocks and the ticking of time at key points in the story. Alice listens to the voice of time and hears what many others do not hear.
Though Alice Anyway is presented as historical fiction, its truths reach far beyond its time and place. For many, the forces shaping Alice’s life remain painfully familiar. I found myself deeply moved by its exploration of autonomy and life authorship—the fragile, radical act of choosing one’s own voice.
Alice Anyway is a warm, melancholy tale set in the past, but it explores issues that are just as relevant today. It is an enjoyable and engaging read that provokes deep thought about community expectations, agency, and the scary process of transitioning between the two. It is an uplifting story about resilience in the face of loss, the temptation of security in lieu of agency, and the deep yearning of the human spirit to find its own way forward.
Alice finds stability and promise in a man who offers safety, security, and scripture. On the surface, such a life seems familiar and comforting. It seems a quietly sanctioned path forward, pre-ordained and proper, a pattern she has been taught to believe is both normal and natural.
Alice is a solitary soul, deeply introspective and quietly attuned to the rhythms of her world. Refusing to get caught up in distractions, she takes time to recognise what is unfolding around her. Thompson reveals the pervasive and ongoing tension between traditional wisdom and authentic awakening. Going with the flow in a small community has all the appearances of wisdom, of having everything worked out, but is devoid of real agency.
The novel’s world comprises revival tents, women’s meetings, and Sunday sermons and becomes the stage for this inner coming-of-age tale. It’s a setting where faith and fear often share the same pew, and where obedience is mistaken for virtue.
The front cover depicts Alice holding a mini terrarium, a strong metaphor that threads through the entire story. I loved the way that Alice’s creativity and focus on creating living ecosystems in jars was both a creative outlet and a doorway to her future. Building a beautiful piece of living artwork can be an activating spark for authoring one's own destiny. Likewise, I loved the theme of time, as conveyed through clocks and the ticking of time at key points in the story. Alice listens to the voice of time and hears what many others do not hear.
Though Alice Anyway is presented as historical fiction, its truths reach far beyond its time and place. For many, the forces shaping Alice’s life remain painfully familiar. I found myself deeply moved by its exploration of autonomy and life authorship—the fragile, radical act of choosing one’s own voice.
Alice Anyway is a warm, melancholy tale set in the past, but it explores issues that are just as relevant today. It is an enjoyable and engaging read that provokes deep thought about community expectations, agency, and the scary process of transitioning between the two. It is an uplifting story about resilience in the face of loss, the temptation of security in lieu of agency, and the deep yearning of the human spirit to find its own way forward.
September 13, 2025
Surprisingly good
I was taken in by the story from the start. It was like a composite of so many people I've known over the years. Ms Thompson is a gifted writer with an insight that is seldom expressed so eloquently.
I was taken in by the story from the start. It was like a composite of so many people I've known over the years. Ms Thompson is a gifted writer with an insight that is seldom expressed so eloquently.
August 24, 2025
What struck me most about Alice Anyway was how rich the writing is. The prose pulls you straight into the Appalachian hills. I could almost feel the air, hear the quiet, and carry the weight Alice carries.
Alice herself is unforgettable. She’s fragile but tough, always searching for a way through the shadows life throws at her. Thompson’s writing has a depth and honesty that makes you stop and think. This is a story that stays with you. I'm looking forward to either the sequel or her next book.
Alice herself is unforgettable. She’s fragile but tough, always searching for a way through the shadows life throws at her. Thompson’s writing has a depth and honesty that makes you stop and think. This is a story that stays with you. I'm looking forward to either the sequel or her next book.
August 25, 2025
I never know what to expect with a new author. I started this book with low expectations but WOW was I pleasantly surprised. Took a few pages to get into it but then I went down the rabbit hole. It's as emotionally immersive a book as I believe I have ever read. I felt as if I were walking right alongside Alice and found myself alternating between crying and cheering for her. Give this one a try, you will be glad you did.
July 19, 2026
Heart Wrenching
This story was so heart wrenching! I was so glad that she had Marvin as her Father. He was the most amazing Father, kind, loving & patient. He was always there for her in what ever she needed, where her Sisters weren't. Their abuse towards her was abhorrent. She became silent in order to cope. I know the feeling, only my Mother was the abuser. Fifty years later I found out it didn't stop after I went to College. Her final words to me the night before she passed were " oh what good are you"! I felt everything Alice felt & I cried for her.
This story was so heart wrenching! I was so glad that she had Marvin as her Father. He was the most amazing Father, kind, loving & patient. He was always there for her in what ever she needed, where her Sisters weren't. Their abuse towards her was abhorrent. She became silent in order to cope. I know the feeling, only my Mother was the abuser. Fifty years later I found out it didn't stop after I went to College. Her final words to me the night before she passed were " oh what good are you"! I felt everything Alice felt & I cried for her.
October 29, 2025
Poignant Story
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
What a sometimes sweet, mostly angering story! I wanted to slap Darrell and his father, not to mention all the snooty women in the church. Religion isn't for show and appearances. It's built on love, kindness and helping others with charity. I'm glad Alice left and will have a future with Eldon and sweet little Joey. And be able to be her sweet, loving self.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
What a sometimes sweet, mostly angering story! I wanted to slap Darrell and his father, not to mention all the snooty women in the church. Religion isn't for show and appearances. It's built on love, kindness and helping others with charity. I'm glad Alice left and will have a future with Eldon and sweet little Joey. And be able to be her sweet, loving self.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2025
Wow. Wow. Wow. I absolutely LOVED LOVED LOVED this book. The writing was so beautiful. At times it actually brought me to tears. It was a simple story yet also complex. I loved all the characters. They all brought something impactful to the story. The message was one I’ll remember.. I I isn’t want the story to end. I can’t wait to read more of this author. This is definitely one of my all time favorite books.
November 1, 2025
Great Job, Ms. Thompson
Characters well developed and well loved. Emotions were pure, and while understated, spoke to the reader in loud voices. I loved this book. The prose and symmetry were so well done. Thank you for sharing your beautiful story with us. Can't wait to read more of your work. Wonderful!
Characters well developed and well loved. Emotions were pure, and while understated, spoke to the reader in loud voices. I loved this book. The prose and symmetry were so well done. Thank you for sharing your beautiful story with us. Can't wait to read more of your work. Wonderful!
November 26, 2025
I almost didn't finish it. This isn’t to scare anyone off, but to encourage you. Alice Anyway is a true gem. Its voice filled with authenticity, love, loss, and truth. Proof that sometimes the uncomfortable is meant to be worked through, and that time and silence can coax our way forward.
An excellent book.
An excellent book.
October 5, 2025
Moving. Loved it!
I could relate to this story on so many levels. I was much like Alice growing up and into adulthood. I like Alice, grew stronger through adversity. God speaks softly, heals broken hearts, and leads us to a better life by his grace.
I could relate to this story on so many levels. I was much like Alice growing up and into adulthood. I like Alice, grew stronger through adversity. God speaks softly, heals broken hearts, and leads us to a better life by his grace.
June 6, 2026
Wonderful story
My heart cried for Alice but rejoiced in her strength. I read it completely through in one sitting. Brenda K. Thompson is my new favorite author. I have already purchased her next book and can't wait to read it.
My heart cried for Alice but rejoiced in her strength. I read it completely through in one sitting. Brenda K. Thompson is my new favorite author. I have already purchased her next book and can't wait to read it.
August 17, 2026
A beautifully crafted story of heartbreak and hope
I was enjoying the book already. Then I read this one sentence and couldn't put it down - "Up on the ridge, the hemlocks swayed, their needles whispering secrets to the morning." Alice's story will touch your heart in so many ways. Don't pass this one by.
I was enjoying the book already. Then I read this one sentence and couldn't put it down - "Up on the ridge, the hemlocks swayed, their needles whispering secrets to the morning." Alice's story will touch your heart in so many ways. Don't pass this one by.
September 13, 2025
Be
Be true to yourself!
Alice Anyway knows what works for herself and she lives her life trying to be honest to herself and the world.
Be true to yourself!
Alice Anyway knows what works for herself and she lives her life trying to be honest to herself and the world.
September 20, 2025
Excellent shows how being quiet and lonely can lead to bad choices. This shows strength and determination for a good outcome I highly recommend this
October 7, 2025
I loved this story, how a young woman grew up with some adversity. She learned how to cope with and grow from it I love when she took charge of her life on her own terms.
December 20, 2025
This was a really great read! Alice just wanted to be part of something and use her voice as well and she really learned how to advocate for herself.
January 9, 2026
Alice
Such a great book! Would love a sequel to see where she continues to flourish. Good clean read and real.
Such a great book! Would love a sequel to see where she continues to flourish. Good clean read and real.
July 11, 2026
Super Book, wonderful to Read
Loved this book so much, could hardly put it down. It catches your heart and holds you til the epilogue is over,,
Loved this book so much, could hardly put it down. It catches your heart and holds you til the epilogue is over,,
October 17, 2026
Beautifully written story.
The character of Alice was real and believable. I found myself in tears over her losses. I don't know if I could habe been as brave as her.
The character of Alice was real and believable. I found myself in tears over her losses. I don't know if I could habe been as brave as her.
October 21, 2026
interesting story
Alice Anyway is a great book. Hard to put down and a different perspective of church and family. I want to read more!
Alice Anyway is a great book. Hard to put down and a different perspective of church and family. I want to read more!
August 5, 2026
I wish I could give this 10 stars! This book spoke to my soul. Amazing must read; especially for anyone trying to find her way back to herself. Incredible!
October 2, 2026
Full of emotion
You will fall in love with Alice. You will root for her, you will grieve with her and you will feel with her.
You will fall in love with Alice. You will root for her, you will grieve with her and you will feel with her.
October 13, 2026
Good Book
I really liked this book. It said things I haven't known how to say, relating to my own life and ways I have felt.
I really liked this book. It said things I haven't known how to say, relating to my own life and ways I have felt.
October 1, 2026
BOOK 25 of 2026…..4.6
October 30, 2025
This lovely story was one that I was fortunate enough to win in a goodreads giveaway! I will say that this was a very heartfelt story. it goes to show that when someone is introverted those who are extroverted will try to make them feel bad. However, I reakly admired the strengh of our main character Alice. she had a special kindness about her and you really have to admire that.
August 19, 2026
unforgettable
This story will stay with me long after I have read it. It was definitely a page turner and totally unforgettable
This story will stay with me long after I have read it. It was definitely a page turner and totally unforgettable
July 17, 2026
Thompson builds a quiet cage around Alice, which creates a suffocating stillness to her world. This is mirrored against a gorgeous Appalachian backdrop. The world she lives in is one where a woman is considered "good" only if she makes herself as small and quiet as possible. However, Alice starts taking steps toward choosing herself. She does this hesitatingly and this drew me in even deeper into the story.
All of this makes for an aching, tender book. I often read books that involve big family sagas with explosive drama. In Alice Anyway the conflict is intimate, the setting domestic. To me that makes it more personal. Throughout the book Alice endures her daily life with quiet resilience. That stirred something in me. Now, the middle section slows down quite a bit. There Alice wrestles with her own self-doubt. It makes the momentum dip for a few chapters. But I’ll take a slower pace if it means I’m getting a story with true emotional honesty.
All of this makes for an aching, tender book. I often read books that involve big family sagas with explosive drama. In Alice Anyway the conflict is intimate, the setting domestic. To me that makes it more personal. Throughout the book Alice endures her daily life with quiet resilience. That stirred something in me. Now, the middle section slows down quite a bit. There Alice wrestles with her own self-doubt. It makes the momentum dip for a few chapters. But I’ll take a slower pace if it means I’m getting a story with true emotional honesty.
August 29, 2025
Excellent book! Alice will quickly have you cheering her on, as she discovers her true self and stops letting others dictate her path.
This is a can't put down book. Even after finishing, it will not easily leave you.
This is a can't put down book. Even after finishing, it will not easily leave you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews