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The Waiting Game: Learning to breathe again
'The moon was speckled like a bird's egg. It hung reliably in the blackness above Will Turnbull and Nessa Grier who sat side by side on a bench as the leaves fell around them, landing softly on the thick, wet grass. Their knees were just touching, hearts pounding hard.'
Nessa Bruce waits for her husband to come through the double doors. She'd waited for him to return home from Afghanistan for what felt like forever, and now the moment was finally here. But Jake isn't... Jake Bruce hasn't come home, and it looks like he never will.
Nessa's life - and that of her daughter Poppy - is turned upside down in an instant. What has happened to the elusive man at the centre of their world? They hold onto the hope that he is still out there somewhere, alive... but as time passes by, Nessa is forced to look at her life, at the decisions she has made and the secrets she has kept. For maybe somewhere within it all lies the answer to the question she's desperate to answer - where is the man she loves?
The Waiting Game is perfect for reading groups with lots of twists and turns, and big topics such as mental ilness, discussed in a fresh and sensitive way.
- GenresChick Lit
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 13, 2015
3 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Thompson
4 books131 followersJessica Thompson is an author living in London.
Born in Yorkshire in the late eighties, she then lived in France and Kent, before moving to the big city she loves so much.
Her very first ‘novel’, written in her early teens, is so old it was stored on a floppy disc. She spent most of her childhood reading her latest poems and stories to her long-suffering but inspirational parents, who encouraged her to continue sharpening her skills as a writer.
This passion for writing continued and flourished, and she eventually trained to become a reporter with the National Council for the Training of Journalists. She was a reporter for two major newspaper groups for six years, before working in charity communications and digital marketing while writing novels.
Jessica loves singing, running, eating out and spending time with friends. She is currently studying with the Open University.
Jessica’s debut novel This is a Love Story was published by Coronet, Hodder and Stoughton, in February 2012. Her second novel Three Little Words was published on August 15 2013. Jessica’s third book will be published during the summer of 2014, and her fourth in 2015.
Born in Yorkshire in the late eighties, she then lived in France and Kent, before moving to the big city she loves so much.
Her very first ‘novel’, written in her early teens, is so old it was stored on a floppy disc. She spent most of her childhood reading her latest poems and stories to her long-suffering but inspirational parents, who encouraged her to continue sharpening her skills as a writer.
This passion for writing continued and flourished, and she eventually trained to become a reporter with the National Council for the Training of Journalists. She was a reporter for two major newspaper groups for six years, before working in charity communications and digital marketing while writing novels.
Jessica loves singing, running, eating out and spending time with friends. She is currently studying with the Open University.
Jessica’s debut novel This is a Love Story was published by Coronet, Hodder and Stoughton, in February 2012. Her second novel Three Little Words was published on August 15 2013. Jessica’s third book will be published during the summer of 2014, and her fourth in 2015.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 9, 2018
Too many characters smoke and drink for my liking. And the daughter's name is Poppy! It must be a British thing. No self-respecting North American would name their kid Poppy!
The main character, Nessa had too much on her plate. ***spoiler alert*** She lost her parents at a young age, lived through domestic abuse in a foster home, got pregnant in her teens, lost her husband who ran off to find himself in the British forces in Afghanistan suffers PTSD and disappears, had a troubled daughter, a much younger sister who couldn't cope with stuff and a father-in-law with dementia. No wonder she's constantly overwhelmed.
The main character, Nessa had too much on her plate. ***spoiler alert*** She lost her parents at a young age, lived through domestic abuse in a foster home, got pregnant in her teens, lost her husband who ran off to find himself in the British forces in Afghanistan suffers PTSD and disappears, had a troubled daughter, a much younger sister who couldn't cope with stuff and a father-in-law with dementia. No wonder she's constantly overwhelmed.
April 13, 2020
Reviews can also be found on my blog Escapades of a Bookworm
I adored Paper Swans so for me picking up this book was a no-brainer, and while I didn’t enjoy this book as much, I was glad to have read it.
Jessica Thompson manages to deal with the themes of PTSD, mental illness and the effects of losing a loved on sensitively and poignantly. There was not one character I didn’t care about. I was rooted for Jake to be alive, but I was also rooting for Will to get the girl and for Poppy to mature. For Nessa to deal with the past as well as the present.
This is not what I’d call a happy book. There is sadness interwoven throughout, but that is just life? Nothing is truly perfect and I liked the honesty and realism that occurred.
What annoyed me a bit was the love thread (I guess that we could call it that?) that ran through out the story that left me a little conflicted and at the end confused as to whether to be happy or disappointed. I don’t know how it could have been written differently (ok I do but then there would be serious spoilers) and after all this isn’t my book. I just want to have a fairy-tale ending but maybe this book is too real for that?
Another thing that really bugged me was that (in this edition at least) that Poppy’s age changed. One moment she’d be described as fifteen and the next she would be nearing her twelfth birthday. How old is this kid? I also wish that I’d have more about Poppy, more about how she was coping and changing and just growing up.
This was a great read. My heart kept getting broken and repaired, I was swallowed up by the story and became completely engrossed. I couldn’t have asked for a better read!
I adored Paper Swans so for me picking up this book was a no-brainer, and while I didn’t enjoy this book as much, I was glad to have read it.
Jessica Thompson manages to deal with the themes of PTSD, mental illness and the effects of losing a loved on sensitively and poignantly. There was not one character I didn’t care about. I was rooted for Jake to be alive, but I was also rooting for Will to get the girl and for Poppy to mature. For Nessa to deal with the past as well as the present.
This is not what I’d call a happy book. There is sadness interwoven throughout, but that is just life? Nothing is truly perfect and I liked the honesty and realism that occurred.
What annoyed me a bit was the love thread (I guess that we could call it that?) that ran through out the story that left me a little conflicted and at the end confused as to whether to be happy or disappointed. I don’t know how it could have been written differently (ok I do but then there would be serious spoilers) and after all this isn’t my book. I just want to have a fairy-tale ending but maybe this book is too real for that?
Another thing that really bugged me was that (in this edition at least) that Poppy’s age changed. One moment she’d be described as fifteen and the next she would be nearing her twelfth birthday. How old is this kid? I also wish that I’d have more about Poppy, more about how she was coping and changing and just growing up.
This was a great read. My heart kept getting broken and repaired, I was swallowed up by the story and became completely engrossed. I couldn’t have asked for a better read!
July 24, 2024
Without a doubt 5 ★
Oh my god - I loved this book. Simply beautiful is the only way to describe it. It was like the books/films ‘One Day,’ ‘About Time,’ and ‘Me Before You’ rolled into one bittersweet story.
We follow Nessa, a woman seeking to lead a fulfilling life while dealing with past traumas and simultaneously being the backbone of her close family - all while navigating the struggle of not having her husband at her side whilst raising her teen daughter Poppy.
Though this book is quite sad and emotional, covering topics such as suicide, depression, domestic violence and its effects, as well as Alzheimer's, we see how Nessa is able to face the ups and downs life throws at her for the sake of those she holds dear. I loved the array of characters we were introduced to and how unfiltered and realistic their relationships and dynamics were. The Waiting Game depicts life as it is and shows how, amidst continual uncertainties, we must never lose sight of the hope that the thought of better days and a brighter future brings.
I honestly can't believe that I didn't start this sooner, it's honestly got to be one of my favourite reads. Thanks Defne ♡
Oh my god - I loved this book. Simply beautiful is the only way to describe it. It was like the books/films ‘One Day,’ ‘About Time,’ and ‘Me Before You’ rolled into one bittersweet story.
We follow Nessa, a woman seeking to lead a fulfilling life while dealing with past traumas and simultaneously being the backbone of her close family - all while navigating the struggle of not having her husband at her side whilst raising her teen daughter Poppy.
Though this book is quite sad and emotional, covering topics such as suicide, depression, domestic violence and its effects, as well as Alzheimer's, we see how Nessa is able to face the ups and downs life throws at her for the sake of those she holds dear. I loved the array of characters we were introduced to and how unfiltered and realistic their relationships and dynamics were. The Waiting Game depicts life as it is and shows how, amidst continual uncertainties, we must never lose sight of the hope that the thought of better days and a brighter future brings.
I honestly can't believe that I didn't start this sooner, it's honestly got to be one of my favourite reads. Thanks Defne ♡
December 21, 2021
Ich weiß nicht ob in der Übersetzung einiges falsch gelaufen ist, der Schreibstil kann mir teilweise etwas sehr laienhaft vor.
Aber abgesehen davon fand ich das Buch gar nicht sooooo schlecht.
Nessa und Poppy machen einiges durch, vor allem mit Nessa konnte ich gut mitfühlten. Teenager sind echt alles andere als leicht und wenn man dann auch noch als Militärfrau oftmals „alleinerziehend“ ist……
Allerdings muss ich gestehen, dass ich mit dem Ende absolut gar nicht klar komme und daher dem Buch nur 3 Sterne geben kann.
Aber abgesehen davon fand ich das Buch gar nicht sooooo schlecht.
Nessa und Poppy machen einiges durch, vor allem mit Nessa konnte ich gut mitfühlten. Teenager sind echt alles andere als leicht und wenn man dann auch noch als Militärfrau oftmals „alleinerziehend“ ist……
Allerdings muss ich gestehen, dass ich mit dem Ende absolut gar nicht klar komme und daher dem Buch nur 3 Sterne geben kann.
October 19, 2020
It's not my genre but idk why I read this book. I think I picked wrong book 😶😶
September 3, 2020
This book was certainly gripping. Once I got into it, I wanted to keep reading it.
As another person has commented, I found it distracting that poppy’s age jumped from 12 to 14 over one page.
This book could be potentially triggering for some people, it was not a happy book, and left me feeling a bit down, even though it had a satisfying conclusion, with all the ends tied up, which I love.
I would have loved some things to turn out differently but then that would have made it a different book, and that was the very thing that made this book special - that the author delved into some of those heartbreaking issues.
One side point is, that throughout the entire book I was wondering where on earth the book was set, and I had to wait until the second last page for that to be revealed.
As another person has commented, I found it distracting that poppy’s age jumped from 12 to 14 over one page.
This book could be potentially triggering for some people, it was not a happy book, and left me feeling a bit down, even though it had a satisfying conclusion, with all the ends tied up, which I love.
I would have loved some things to turn out differently but then that would have made it a different book, and that was the very thing that made this book special - that the author delved into some of those heartbreaking issues.
One side point is, that throughout the entire book I was wondering where on earth the book was set, and I had to wait until the second last page for that to be revealed.
June 5, 2019
Overall this isn't a bad read.There were some serious issues that were dealt with very sensitively in this book and a couple of parts even made me cry.
The thing I struggled with was the flit between serious and jokey. I couldn't quite pin point what the novel was trying to be and achieve.
I found a lot of the story to be predictable but that isn't always a bad thing if told right.
I would definitely give another one of her novels a try.
The thing I struggled with was the flit between serious and jokey. I couldn't quite pin point what the novel was trying to be and achieve.
I found a lot of the story to be predictable but that isn't always a bad thing if told right.
I would definitely give another one of her novels a try.
May 7, 2017
The Waiting Game is a down-to-earth story about serious themes.
The style of the author clashed with me somewhat, since there's quite a bit of explaining feelings matter-of-factly, which feels like a violation of show-don't-tell.
You're in safe hands when reading this book, though. It doesn't punish you for caring, if that makes sense.
The style of the author clashed with me somewhat, since there's quite a bit of explaining feelings matter-of-factly, which feels like a violation of show-don't-tell.
You're in safe hands when reading this book, though. It doesn't punish you for caring, if that makes sense.
December 21, 2024
Das Buch ist lesbar, aber für mich kein Highlight. Es geht um Kindheit, Belastungen, Ängste, Familie, Trauer und Verlust. Am Ende wartet ein Happy End, aber leider hat es mich null überzeugt. Geht in Richtung Nicholas Sparks, nur nicht so gut.
March 5, 2019
Predictable. Weak character development. And a few storylines that felt out of place.
January 4, 2024
Loved this book through and through. Being a military child, it's a great read!
November 17, 2025
Sorry hoor maar wat een boek. Ik bleef maar wachten op een breakthrough. Maar het was echt flut. I’m happy it ended
August 22, 2015
After reading Jessica Thompson's debut novel "This is a Love Story" I know immediately that she's going to be my auto - buy author, and it turned out to be truth. I am always impatiently waiting for her every new release, as I simply fell in love with her beautiful writing, very captivating story - telling, and the exceptional plots of her books. What I also can always be sure to get from Ms Thompson's books, is the incredible gentleness in tackling all the issues she writes about in her novels - they are full of understanding and empathy - and it was the case with "The waiting Game" as well. I can't praise this book enough, everything there was beautiful, and let's not forget this gorgeous, sentimental and atmospheric cover!
Mostly Jessica Thompson's stories are sad, really sad - about people loosing their closest ones, about dramas happening in their lives, and "The Waiting Games" is also sad, but please do not feel deceived - it is not a comedy of errors of course, not a rom - com, yet the book leaves you full of hope.
I personally am not too happy with the ending to this story - I just couldn't believe it! You know, when reading Jessica's stories, there is always this tension, this tickling sensation somewhere in your mind telling you that something is going to happen, but still you read and hope for a happy end. And also, being Will I think I'd not go for it ("it" - not going to tell what "it" is, as don't want to spoil you the reading!), I'd feel like the second best, but it's only me, and it is my only one reservation - other than that, it was a perfect read for me. The plot was intense and the pace was right, and the author was not afraid to put her characters into difficult situations, to put them in front of controversial choices and to cope with life that is not a bed of roses, but full of problems and difficulties. The characters were relatable, they were not flawless, but this is how I like my characters to be. They were struggling, trying to find the best solutions, and their decisions were not always the best ones, but they were trying and hoping. Also, all the relationship are described just as they usually are, they are not too rosy, too optimistic, no, they are just as we know them - this between Nessa and her growing daughter, with her parents in law, with friends, it all sounds so realistic. Nessa is so strong, and I really kept my fingers crossed for her, and it hurt so much to see how she's coping with her life, with all the problems, and having such a rebellious teenage daughter with this very sharp tongue, who was judging her mother so harsh, didn't help. Poppy was too well - developed for her own good, and this bad language coming instantly from her didn't suit such a young girl so much, but if it was the way she was coping and reacting, then let it be. All Nessa and Poppy's emotions and frustrations were brilliantly captured, and you yourself either get angry together with them, or feel helpless, just like those two, and you can't help but keep your fingers crossed for them. There was something special in Nessa, as she went through so much in her life, and still she didn't lose her hope and I truly admired her.
Also the other characters are so down - to - earth and realistic. Nessa's best friend, Will, was lovely, and the friendship between those two is through thick and thin. As for Jake, we don't get to know him personally (or rather, almost don't get to know him personally), and we hear about him from other characters, and of course there emerges a picture of a hero, of a brilliant father, husband and friend, but is it truly like this? And this sub - plot, it is in fact amazing how the author wrote it, it kept me on my toes and I couldn't wait to see how it's going to end.
Jessica Thompson has truly created characters that I rooted for and cared about, and kept my fingers crossed for them.
"The Waiting Game" was so a typical Jessica Thompson's book, full of feelings and emotions, a rollercoaster ride filled with love, hope and friendship, with a cast of believable characters and situations. The author writes about some important issues, such as mental health, Alzheimer disease, growing up, PTSD, and it is amazing with how much care and understanding each of this is described, how much warm and sensitiveness there is in the writing. Jessica Thompson did it again, she has delivered beautiful, poignant and making you think story - she has just swept me away with her stunning novel. Highly recommended!
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
August 23, 2015
I received a free copy of this book, from the publishers, in return for a true and honest review.
Nessa and Jake Bruce have been together since they were teenagers and have a teenage daughter, Poppy.
Jake is away in Afghanistan serving his country, and Nessa is finding living like a ‘single parent’ difficult, especially with Poppy’s bad language and behaviour. The only saviour that she has is her long-time friend and ex-pop-star Will, who is there for her around the clock.
With Jake due to return home on leave soon, both Nessa and Poppy can’t wait to see him. However just before his return date, a bomb explodes whilst he’s out on patrol, injuring him, but killing his comrades.
Physically, Jake is not in too bad shape, but mentally he is suffering, blaming himself for the deaths of his friends.
On his return date Nessa and Poppy go to meet him, but he never shows. They know he got off the plane, but after that no-one knows where he went.
The suspicions are that he was so traumatised by the events in Afghanistan, that sadly Jake has disappeared to commit suicide.
With Nessa and Poppy’s lives turned upside down in an instant, how will they learn to cope without him, and how can Nessa ever move on with her life, not knowing if her husband is dead or alive?
"The Waiting Game" is a truly remarkable book that deals with sensitive issues, such as PTSD, dementia, grief and domestic violence. They are written about with care and understanding, and you get a true sense of how these subjects affect the people that deal with them.
I liked Nessa a lot. She is a tough, young woman who seems to carry the world on her shoulders. She’s had to come to terms with something horrific from her past, at 17 she became pregnant with Poppy, and then her husband decided to join the army, leaving her to raise their daughter almost single-handedly.
Poppy is a rebellious, foul-mouthed teenager, but underneath the tough exterior is a little girl who is missing her dad, and blames her mum for not making him stay. She just wants a normal family life, and is trying to cope with her situation the only way she knows.
We don’t really get to know Jake that much. We know that he is in the army and is a hero in everyone’s eyes. He is a loving husband and father, and joined the army to give his family a more financially stable life.
At the start of the book, I wasn’t too sure whether I was going to enjoy it or not. I was put off by the back and forth of years, as we start off in 1997, then jump forward to 2012, then go back to 1995, then forward again to 2012. Once I got through the first few chapters I absolutely adored the book, and was captivated by the story.
The book is emotional and sad at times, but it is beautifully-written and makes the reader feel at ease with the delicate subjects, keeping you gripped to it’s pages.
I was absorbed into Nessa’s life, and was hoping all the way through that Jake hadn’t killed himself, and that he was still out there, just waiting for Nessa to find him. The ending though brought tears to my eyes, and I felt so sorry for Nessa, after everything that she had been through, she still had to face more misery.
There were so many twists in the story that I was thrown off course more than once, and kept guessing the whole way through about Jake.
Jessica has written a powerful and engaging book that I loved, and I hope you will too.
Nessa and Jake Bruce have been together since they were teenagers and have a teenage daughter, Poppy.
Jake is away in Afghanistan serving his country, and Nessa is finding living like a ‘single parent’ difficult, especially with Poppy’s bad language and behaviour. The only saviour that she has is her long-time friend and ex-pop-star Will, who is there for her around the clock.
With Jake due to return home on leave soon, both Nessa and Poppy can’t wait to see him. However just before his return date, a bomb explodes whilst he’s out on patrol, injuring him, but killing his comrades.
Physically, Jake is not in too bad shape, but mentally he is suffering, blaming himself for the deaths of his friends.
On his return date Nessa and Poppy go to meet him, but he never shows. They know he got off the plane, but after that no-one knows where he went.
The suspicions are that he was so traumatised by the events in Afghanistan, that sadly Jake has disappeared to commit suicide.
With Nessa and Poppy’s lives turned upside down in an instant, how will they learn to cope without him, and how can Nessa ever move on with her life, not knowing if her husband is dead or alive?
"The Waiting Game" is a truly remarkable book that deals with sensitive issues, such as PTSD, dementia, grief and domestic violence. They are written about with care and understanding, and you get a true sense of how these subjects affect the people that deal with them.
I liked Nessa a lot. She is a tough, young woman who seems to carry the world on her shoulders. She’s had to come to terms with something horrific from her past, at 17 she became pregnant with Poppy, and then her husband decided to join the army, leaving her to raise their daughter almost single-handedly.
Poppy is a rebellious, foul-mouthed teenager, but underneath the tough exterior is a little girl who is missing her dad, and blames her mum for not making him stay. She just wants a normal family life, and is trying to cope with her situation the only way she knows.
We don’t really get to know Jake that much. We know that he is in the army and is a hero in everyone’s eyes. He is a loving husband and father, and joined the army to give his family a more financially stable life.
At the start of the book, I wasn’t too sure whether I was going to enjoy it or not. I was put off by the back and forth of years, as we start off in 1997, then jump forward to 2012, then go back to 1995, then forward again to 2012. Once I got through the first few chapters I absolutely adored the book, and was captivated by the story.
The book is emotional and sad at times, but it is beautifully-written and makes the reader feel at ease with the delicate subjects, keeping you gripped to it’s pages.
I was absorbed into Nessa’s life, and was hoping all the way through that Jake hadn’t killed himself, and that he was still out there, just waiting for Nessa to find him. The ending though brought tears to my eyes, and I felt so sorry for Nessa, after everything that she had been through, she still had to face more misery.
There were so many twists in the story that I was thrown off course more than once, and kept guessing the whole way through about Jake.
Jessica has written a powerful and engaging book that I loved, and I hope you will too.
Visit www.whisperingstories.com for an exclusive extract.
August 14, 2015
I love a lot of writers’ work; it kind of helps when you write a lot of reviews. There is one writer whose work I get genuinely excited about and that is Jessica Thompson. I eagerly await copies of her books when she releases new material and I’m not ashamed to admit that they are usually devoured in one sitting. I’m happy to say that Jessica Thompson did not disappoint with her latest novel – The Waiting Game.
The novel centres on the life of Nessa Grier – mid-thirties, mum to a demonic teenager, practically a single parent with her husband off in Afghanistan. She is barely holding it together but her life starts to fall apart when her husband doesn’t return home.
Left to pick up the pieces of her life Nessa Grier really starts to crumble and it is only with the help of those close to her that she starts to pull her life together again. Unfortunately, life and death just aren’t that easy.
What I loved about The Waiting Game is the sheer plausibility of it. Thompson deals with heartbreaking situations – in particular mental health issues – with delicacy and heart. She gives us a glimpse at both sides of the spectrum from those who suffer mental health issues to those who are dealing with loved ones who bear the weight of the condition. It is a balanced and fair portrayal.
Thompson easily displays Nessa’s frustration, especially with her daughter’s behaviour, as she battles to maintain control. You get angry with Nessa, you feel her hurt and you hope against hope that things get better for her.
If I had to say that there was anything that I didn’t like about The Waiting Game it would actually be a more personal opinion about the love story thread rather than a fact about the writing. I felt conflicted about who I was rooting for in the novel. I wanted to root for everybody but it wasn’t possible that the story would work that way; I realise that this sounds very cryptic but when you read the novel you will hopefully understand. I think if Thompson had tried to change the love story thread throughout the novel she would have made Nessa seem callous and ended up alienating her to the audience. Therefore, I can understand why it had to be written in this way…but admittedly this did still leave me feeling conflict.
Once again I have been enchanted and swept away by Jessica Thompson’s amazing and beautiful storytelling abilities. Read The Waiting Game people; it is stunning.
The Waiting Game by Jessica Thompson is available now.
Follow Jessica Thompson (@JThompsonAuthor) via Twitter.
The novel centres on the life of Nessa Grier – mid-thirties, mum to a demonic teenager, practically a single parent with her husband off in Afghanistan. She is barely holding it together but her life starts to fall apart when her husband doesn’t return home.
Left to pick up the pieces of her life Nessa Grier really starts to crumble and it is only with the help of those close to her that she starts to pull her life together again. Unfortunately, life and death just aren’t that easy.
What I loved about The Waiting Game is the sheer plausibility of it. Thompson deals with heartbreaking situations – in particular mental health issues – with delicacy and heart. She gives us a glimpse at both sides of the spectrum from those who suffer mental health issues to those who are dealing with loved ones who bear the weight of the condition. It is a balanced and fair portrayal.
Thompson easily displays Nessa’s frustration, especially with her daughter’s behaviour, as she battles to maintain control. You get angry with Nessa, you feel her hurt and you hope against hope that things get better for her.
If I had to say that there was anything that I didn’t like about The Waiting Game it would actually be a more personal opinion about the love story thread rather than a fact about the writing. I felt conflicted about who I was rooting for in the novel. I wanted to root for everybody but it wasn’t possible that the story would work that way; I realise that this sounds very cryptic but when you read the novel you will hopefully understand. I think if Thompson had tried to change the love story thread throughout the novel she would have made Nessa seem callous and ended up alienating her to the audience. Therefore, I can understand why it had to be written in this way…but admittedly this did still leave me feeling conflict.
Once again I have been enchanted and swept away by Jessica Thompson’s amazing and beautiful storytelling abilities. Read The Waiting Game people; it is stunning.
The Waiting Game by Jessica Thompson is available now.
Follow Jessica Thompson (@JThompsonAuthor) via Twitter.
October 2, 2015
This was an absolute pleasure to read, although with such a heart-breaking storyline that I admit to shedding tears from about half way through right to the very end. The storyline is completely believable and delved into highly emotional subjects such as depression and suicide.
Writing a book about a character returning from a tour in Afghanistan was always going to be emotional. The torment that Jake is going through is also experienced by too many of the brave men and women of our armed forces. Jake may be broken but the real Jake is still inside of him and the love he has for his family shines through every page.
I loved the close friendship between Nessa and Will, something that could have been more than friendship on several occasions if the stars had aligned. It was lovely that Nessa had Will in her life when she was going through the difficult period following Jake’s disappearance.
Jake’s parents, Betsy and Mick, were really endearing characters and Mick’s Alzheimer’s was portrayed with such realism that my heart went out to them. His moments of clarity were becoming rarer and there’s a moment of clarity that isn’t recognised as such, which was an absolutely beautiful touch.
Nessa and Jake’s teenage daughter, Poppy, was portrayed both understandably angry and vulnerable and I alternated between wanting to slap her and hug her. It was sometimes shocking the way that she treated Nessa but it’s so realistic as we always lash out at those closest to us.
I can’t write any more without spoiling the book for others, but this is an excellent book and one that will mean so much to anyone linked with the armed forces. I have already passed my copy on to my cousin who also did a tour of Afghanistan and I'm sure The Waiting Game will do its own tour within her regiment.
It’s a love story and a sad story; a story of family, love and loss that will appeal to all readers and I will definitely be adding more of Jessica Thompson's books to my reading pile.
I received this book from the publisher, Coronet, via Bookbridgr in exchange for an honest review.
Writing a book about a character returning from a tour in Afghanistan was always going to be emotional. The torment that Jake is going through is also experienced by too many of the brave men and women of our armed forces. Jake may be broken but the real Jake is still inside of him and the love he has for his family shines through every page.
I loved the close friendship between Nessa and Will, something that could have been more than friendship on several occasions if the stars had aligned. It was lovely that Nessa had Will in her life when she was going through the difficult period following Jake’s disappearance.
Jake’s parents, Betsy and Mick, were really endearing characters and Mick’s Alzheimer’s was portrayed with such realism that my heart went out to them. His moments of clarity were becoming rarer and there’s a moment of clarity that isn’t recognised as such, which was an absolutely beautiful touch.
Nessa and Jake’s teenage daughter, Poppy, was portrayed both understandably angry and vulnerable and I alternated between wanting to slap her and hug her. It was sometimes shocking the way that she treated Nessa but it’s so realistic as we always lash out at those closest to us.
I can’t write any more without spoiling the book for others, but this is an excellent book and one that will mean so much to anyone linked with the armed forces. I have already passed my copy on to my cousin who also did a tour of Afghanistan and I'm sure The Waiting Game will do its own tour within her regiment.
It’s a love story and a sad story; a story of family, love and loss that will appeal to all readers and I will definitely be adding more of Jessica Thompson's books to my reading pile.
I received this book from the publisher, Coronet, via Bookbridgr in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2015
Nessa Bruce had waited for her husband to return home from Afghanistan for what felt like forever. Now the moment was finally here. But Jake Bruce didn't come home ...... and the over-riding question; Will Jake come home? Is he dead or alive?
This is a book about life and its up and downs. Nessa is grieving for her husband, struggling to cope with life after he has gone, especially with daughter Poppy being a hard-to-handle teenager.
Jakes's father is also suffering from dementia and this is dealt with carefully and the reader gets a good sense of how the family deal with it.
Domestic violence is also introduced and the effect it has on children, in this case, within a foster family.
Poppy is a rebellious, foul-mouthed teenager but underneath all of this is a little, confused girl missing her dad. Nessa, however, is a strong woman who is struggling to make ends meet as her husband goes off to follow his dreams leaving her to bury hers. The characters are realistic and well-drawn.
There are many threads to this book all inter-weaving within different time frames and this makes it hard to follow sometimes. You have to read the chapter headings to make sure you know which year you are in and at what stage the individuals are in the story. Poppy's age also changes which is a little annoying. In a single chapter she was 14 and then 17.
Overall, I loved this book. It is thought provoking and a roller-coaster ride filled with love, hope and friendship. I was really involved in the family and their trials and tribulations. It is a book to lose yourself in. I will definitely be reading Jessica Thompson's other books.
This is a book about life and its up and downs. Nessa is grieving for her husband, struggling to cope with life after he has gone, especially with daughter Poppy being a hard-to-handle teenager.
Jakes's father is also suffering from dementia and this is dealt with carefully and the reader gets a good sense of how the family deal with it.
Domestic violence is also introduced and the effect it has on children, in this case, within a foster family.
Poppy is a rebellious, foul-mouthed teenager but underneath all of this is a little, confused girl missing her dad. Nessa, however, is a strong woman who is struggling to make ends meet as her husband goes off to follow his dreams leaving her to bury hers. The characters are realistic and well-drawn.
There are many threads to this book all inter-weaving within different time frames and this makes it hard to follow sometimes. You have to read the chapter headings to make sure you know which year you are in and at what stage the individuals are in the story. Poppy's age also changes which is a little annoying. In a single chapter she was 14 and then 17.
Overall, I loved this book. It is thought provoking and a roller-coaster ride filled with love, hope and friendship. I was really involved in the family and their trials and tribulations. It is a book to lose yourself in. I will definitely be reading Jessica Thompson's other books.
August 18, 2015
This book discusses some serious themes; Grief, PTSD, Mental Health, and growing up.
The subject matters are handled by the author warmly and sensitively. The Character of Nessa Bruce is excellent. She is strong and goes through such a difficult time but still seems to hold it all together. Poppy, Nessa and Jake's Daughter is a typical teenager that seems to be rebelling, and standing her ground.
I didn't particularly like the constant bad language that was coming out of Poppy, to me it seemed inappropriate from a character that age. However it is understandable that she reacts in this way, given what she is going through.
I admire the author for tackling the themes that she does in a sensitive and poignant way. She has created characters with all different traits that you actually care about. This story kept me guessing as to how it was all going to unravel. There was a certain sadness throughout, life really is cruel sometimes. Things never turn out as we expect.
Personally I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as Paper Swans but I am still glad that I read it, enjoyed it and I would recommend it.
The subject matters are handled by the author warmly and sensitively. The Character of Nessa Bruce is excellent. She is strong and goes through such a difficult time but still seems to hold it all together. Poppy, Nessa and Jake's Daughter is a typical teenager that seems to be rebelling, and standing her ground.
I didn't particularly like the constant bad language that was coming out of Poppy, to me it seemed inappropriate from a character that age. However it is understandable that she reacts in this way, given what she is going through.
I admire the author for tackling the themes that she does in a sensitive and poignant way. She has created characters with all different traits that you actually care about. This story kept me guessing as to how it was all going to unravel. There was a certain sadness throughout, life really is cruel sometimes. Things never turn out as we expect.
Personally I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as Paper Swans but I am still glad that I read it, enjoyed it and I would recommend it.
September 13, 2015
Nessa Bruce and her teenage daughter Poppy aren't getting on too well. With her husband away in the armed forces, Nessa feels unable to connect with her daughter. Having made up her mind to ask Jake to quit the army when he's next home on leave, their lives are turned upside down by a tragic turn of events in Afghanistan. While Jake is physically ok, the responsibility he carries for the deaths of his friends is too much to face up to, and Nessa and Poppy are left needing to find a way to survive without him.
I enjoyed reading this novel, partly because the majority of events are set in Beckenham, where I now live. There is definitely a unique pleasure to be gained from knowing the actual routes the characters are walking along. There is depth and nuance to Nessa's own story; growing up in care, the secrets she's kept from her sister, and the deep love she feels for Jake. Thompson shows an ability to create a fully formed character that the reader can empathise with.
Full review here: http://www.katejwilson.com/2015/09/bo...
I enjoyed reading this novel, partly because the majority of events are set in Beckenham, where I now live. There is definitely a unique pleasure to be gained from knowing the actual routes the characters are walking along. There is depth and nuance to Nessa's own story; growing up in care, the secrets she's kept from her sister, and the deep love she feels for Jake. Thompson shows an ability to create a fully formed character that the reader can empathise with.
Full review here: http://www.katejwilson.com/2015/09/bo...
August 27, 2015
Although this is pegged as a "romance", for me this was one of the weaker points to the book. However, I found more than enough enjoyment in reading about Ness and the journey she is on in dealing with her absent husband. This, to me was a real strength of the book and it dealt with this sort of limbo she found herself living in. I have more to say, but that will be covered in my full review.
April 21, 2017
This was very touching.
Jake and Nessa have been together since their teen years - now married with a daughter, Poppy. After a difficult few months apart, Poppy and Nessa can't wait to welcome Jake home after another tour of Afghanistan (he's a solider). But Jake doesn't come home. And the question on everyone's lips - *Where Is He*?
This was a great read, sad in parts and certainly makes you feel for those brave soldiers continuing to suffer post-war. My only niggle - a disappointing and slightly too abrupt an ending. I think I needed a bit of an explanation or a conclusion at least.
Jake and Nessa have been together since their teen years - now married with a daughter, Poppy. After a difficult few months apart, Poppy and Nessa can't wait to welcome Jake home after another tour of Afghanistan (he's a solider). But Jake doesn't come home. And the question on everyone's lips - *Where Is He*?
This was a great read, sad in parts and certainly makes you feel for those brave soldiers continuing to suffer post-war. My only niggle - a disappointing and slightly too abrupt an ending. I think I needed a bit of an explanation or a conclusion at least.
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