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In the Wind
Dawn has her future planned out to the tiniest detail, and with only one summer left to spend in Hargrave Cove, all of her dreams are about to come true. She'll go to university in the city, finally tell Zeke she's in love with him, then become the best screenplay writer the world has ever seen. All she has to do is follow her plan.
But all that changes when a summer storm brings with it a girl who dances in the rain, turns Zeke's head, and has very strange ideas on what happiness should be. Her arrival brings with it a set of cataclysmic events that challenge everything Dawn ever believed and drive her further away from her dreams than she ever was before.
Thank god she still has Luke, the widowed manager of the local bar, to talk to. Otherwise she'd be completely alone.
When the storm comes again, one thing is sure, Dawn's life will be nothing like she originally planned...
Set in Australia against a picturesque coastal backdrop, In the Wind takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery and sexual-awakening, while reminding us that friends aren't always friends, and love is often where you least expect.
But all that changes when a summer storm brings with it a girl who dances in the rain, turns Zeke's head, and has very strange ideas on what happiness should be. Her arrival brings with it a set of cataclysmic events that challenge everything Dawn ever believed and drive her further away from her dreams than she ever was before.
Thank god she still has Luke, the widowed manager of the local bar, to talk to. Otherwise she'd be completely alone.
When the storm comes again, one thing is sure, Dawn's life will be nothing like she originally planned...
Set in Australia against a picturesque coastal backdrop, In the Wind takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery and sexual-awakening, while reminding us that friends aren't always friends, and love is often where you least expect.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 3, 2016
11 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
About the author
Lilliana Anderson
78 books1,176 followersBestselling Author of the Beautiful Series, Drawn and 47 Things, Lilliana has always loved to read and write, considering it the best form of escapism that the world has to offer.
Australian born and bred, she writes New Adult Romance revolving around her authentically Aussie characters with all the quirks you’d expect from those born Down Under.
Lilliana feels that the world should see Australia for more than just it's outback and tries to show characters in a city and suburban setting.
When she isn't writing, she wears the hat of 'wife and mother' to her husband and four children.
Before Lilliana turned to writing, she worked in a variety of industries and studied humanities and communications before transferring to commerce/law at university.
Originally from Sydney's Western suburbs, she currently lives a fairly quiet life in suburban Melbourne.
Australian born and bred, she writes New Adult Romance revolving around her authentically Aussie characters with all the quirks you’d expect from those born Down Under.
Lilliana feels that the world should see Australia for more than just it's outback and tries to show characters in a city and suburban setting.
When she isn't writing, she wears the hat of 'wife and mother' to her husband and four children.
Before Lilliana turned to writing, she worked in a variety of industries and studied humanities and communications before transferring to commerce/law at university.
Originally from Sydney's Western suburbs, she currently lives a fairly quiet life in suburban Melbourne.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 20, 2016
Poignant story, beautifully written!!
As part of my New Year’s resolutions, I am determined to try new authors to me, so I gladly jumped at the chance to read In the Wind by Author Lilliana Anderson, a truly poignant, coming-of-age story with a surprising mix of forbidden love and deep emotion.
Dawn is a square peg, just finishing high school and anxiously waiting for her university acceptance with her best friend, Zeke. They can’t wait to get out of their beautiful but small and confining beach town. Dawn and Zeke have been friends for years but she yearns for more. She is in love with him but cat get him to look at her as anything more than a fiend. He has been her saving grace since he moved in. Along comes Shea, a wild girl who is new in town. At this point I assumed the story would go in one direction, and it took several very unexpected turns. What I thought would be a sweet, New Adult romance turned into an emotional, angsty story that kept me turning the pages until the very end.
Dawn is fascinated by her new friend Shea, who is a free spirit and is the complete opposite of careful, deliberate Dawn. Shea awakens certain feelings in Dawn but Shea is harboring some very dark secrets which all come crashing down in the end. You just know Shea is trouble, but Dawn has to find out for herself. I actually felt sorry for Shea after her real story comes to light.
“…every time she opened her mouth, an intelligence spilled from her lips that I hadn’t expected when I first saw her twirling in the wind and the rain.”
Every scene in this book is unforgettable. I loved how Zeke and Dawn’s relationship evolved from best friends to something more, and how Shea turned out to be not all that she seemed to be. Dawn had some hard choices to make in this story, and I was often surprised by where Ms. Anderson took her characters. Not at all the sweet story I was expecting, IN THE WIND is nonetheless a wonderfully poignant story about finding your true self and learning to leave your past behind. I loved Dawn’s journey toward self-discovery. The seaside setting is so moody and descriptive and I felt a little lost after I finished this book. The ending of this story was perfect for the characters. All in all, a very surprising and satisfying read from a wonderfully talented author!
Favorite quote:
“He was the light that pushed away the darkness and filled my heart with hope”
(ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
As part of my New Year’s resolutions, I am determined to try new authors to me, so I gladly jumped at the chance to read In the Wind by Author Lilliana Anderson, a truly poignant, coming-of-age story with a surprising mix of forbidden love and deep emotion.
Dawn is a square peg, just finishing high school and anxiously waiting for her university acceptance with her best friend, Zeke. They can’t wait to get out of their beautiful but small and confining beach town. Dawn and Zeke have been friends for years but she yearns for more. She is in love with him but cat get him to look at her as anything more than a fiend. He has been her saving grace since he moved in. Along comes Shea, a wild girl who is new in town. At this point I assumed the story would go in one direction, and it took several very unexpected turns. What I thought would be a sweet, New Adult romance turned into an emotional, angsty story that kept me turning the pages until the very end.
Dawn is fascinated by her new friend Shea, who is a free spirit and is the complete opposite of careful, deliberate Dawn. Shea awakens certain feelings in Dawn but Shea is harboring some very dark secrets which all come crashing down in the end. You just know Shea is trouble, but Dawn has to find out for herself. I actually felt sorry for Shea after her real story comes to light.
“…every time she opened her mouth, an intelligence spilled from her lips that I hadn’t expected when I first saw her twirling in the wind and the rain.”
Every scene in this book is unforgettable. I loved how Zeke and Dawn’s relationship evolved from best friends to something more, and how Shea turned out to be not all that she seemed to be. Dawn had some hard choices to make in this story, and I was often surprised by where Ms. Anderson took her characters. Not at all the sweet story I was expecting, IN THE WIND is nonetheless a wonderfully poignant story about finding your true self and learning to leave your past behind. I loved Dawn’s journey toward self-discovery. The seaside setting is so moody and descriptive and I felt a little lost after I finished this book. The ending of this story was perfect for the characters. All in all, a very surprising and satisfying read from a wonderfully talented author!
Favorite quote:
“He was the light that pushed away the darkness and filled my heart with hope”
(ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
January 5, 2016
"He was the light that pushed away the darkness and filled my heart with hope."
In the Wind by Author Lilliana Anderson is a standalone, New Adult Romance. It is a compelling story with a rare mix of intrigue, taboo, self-discovery, and love.
"...every time she opened her mouth, an intelligence spilled from her lips that I hadn't expected when I first saw her twirling in the wind and the rain."
Dawn Tucker has never fit in. She is unique and eccentric; adequate for her, but not her mother or her place of residence. She is what you'd call an "old soul". Zeke is her best friend. They are inseparable, making plans and sharing their dreams with one another. Shea is the new face in town. The third wheel. She is intelligent and is a thinker, but in reality is the antithesis of Dawn. These three personalities, along with others introduced along the way, create for us a story that is so unique and riveting that it cannot be put down.
"I forgive you for walking away, and I forgive you for not being there, and I forgive you for taking away my future. I'll make my future on my own, and I'll be fine because I'm letting you go now, just like you let me go that day on the beach."
I was hooked from the first part of chapter one, totally unprepared for what was to unfold In the Wind. It chronicled a story of coming-of-age and finding one's self. One thing that beckons to me when reading are characters that show development and change. Every character introduced in this story underwent life-altering transformations. I will say, unequivocally, that I loved Dawn. She was the most giving and selfless young woman. She had a way of passage to discover in order for her to become the woman that she was purposed to be. But, she embraced this challenge and the outcome was priceless. Other characters also proved to be diverse from their original presentation in the story, and these variations were cause for a spectrum of emotions to pour out of me, unable to be contained.
"I cried for the little girl who dreamed of an unrealistic kind of love. I cried for the teenager who had a dream to make something special of her life. And I cried for the young woman who recently learned that love was conditional and everyone left."
Every scene that was set by Author Lilliana Anderson was a driving force in the story for visualizing the lives that each person lived. The subjects and twists and turns of reality continually caught me off guard. They weren't forced or awkward, they just happened, as if it was real-life and I was living it with them. Turning the final page, I felt completed. Although I had a great fondness for many of the characters and hated to see them go, I knew that they had been given the best possible ending, and I was thankful for this resolution.
"I would prefer to save you a hundred times a day than to see you get hurt even once."
In the Wind by Author Lilliana Anderson is a standalone, New Adult Romance. It is a compelling story with a rare mix of intrigue, taboo, self-discovery, and love.
"...every time she opened her mouth, an intelligence spilled from her lips that I hadn't expected when I first saw her twirling in the wind and the rain."
Dawn Tucker has never fit in. She is unique and eccentric; adequate for her, but not her mother or her place of residence. She is what you'd call an "old soul". Zeke is her best friend. They are inseparable, making plans and sharing their dreams with one another. Shea is the new face in town. The third wheel. She is intelligent and is a thinker, but in reality is the antithesis of Dawn. These three personalities, along with others introduced along the way, create for us a story that is so unique and riveting that it cannot be put down.
"I forgive you for walking away, and I forgive you for not being there, and I forgive you for taking away my future. I'll make my future on my own, and I'll be fine because I'm letting you go now, just like you let me go that day on the beach."
I was hooked from the first part of chapter one, totally unprepared for what was to unfold In the Wind. It chronicled a story of coming-of-age and finding one's self. One thing that beckons to me when reading are characters that show development and change. Every character introduced in this story underwent life-altering transformations. I will say, unequivocally, that I loved Dawn. She was the most giving and selfless young woman. She had a way of passage to discover in order for her to become the woman that she was purposed to be. But, she embraced this challenge and the outcome was priceless. Other characters also proved to be diverse from their original presentation in the story, and these variations were cause for a spectrum of emotions to pour out of me, unable to be contained.
"I cried for the little girl who dreamed of an unrealistic kind of love. I cried for the teenager who had a dream to make something special of her life. And I cried for the young woman who recently learned that love was conditional and everyone left."
Every scene that was set by Author Lilliana Anderson was a driving force in the story for visualizing the lives that each person lived. The subjects and twists and turns of reality continually caught me off guard. They weren't forced or awkward, they just happened, as if it was real-life and I was living it with them. Turning the final page, I felt completed. Although I had a great fondness for many of the characters and hated to see them go, I knew that they had been given the best possible ending, and I was thankful for this resolution.
"I would prefer to save you a hundred times a day than to see you get hurt even once."
January 18, 2016
ARR provided by author in exchange of an honest review!
When I first read the synopsis of this book I admit I was totally confused about what the book was really about. With that being said I went into this book blind and without any pre conceived thoughts, and boy was I surprised. This book blew away and far exceeded my expectations. This is probably one of the best books I've read so far this year!
This book is about a small town girl experiencing a self awakening and growth the summer before she starts college. Dawn is this smart girl with old fashioned ideas about love with an old soul. She has been neglected by her dad and mom since 12, and basically has raised herself. She really has some self-esteem (she's experienced small town gossip) and daddy issues. Zeke has been her best friend since they were little and she's secretly "in love" with him. Shea is the girl that moves in the summer after high school and the non-stop drama ensues. She is like a hurricane and causes trouble all around this small town. And Luke is this 35yr old single father and bartender who totally understands Dawn and her views on life.
This book was very well written and the plot was utterly amazing. I haven't read anything like this book. I would love to tell you exactly what happened, but I would hate to give anything away. I will just say that this book had my emotions all over the place and I highly recommend giving this book a try, I promise you won't regret it.
When I first read the synopsis of this book I admit I was totally confused about what the book was really about. With that being said I went into this book blind and without any pre conceived thoughts, and boy was I surprised. This book blew away and far exceeded my expectations. This is probably one of the best books I've read so far this year!
This book is about a small town girl experiencing a self awakening and growth the summer before she starts college. Dawn is this smart girl with old fashioned ideas about love with an old soul. She has been neglected by her dad and mom since 12, and basically has raised herself. She really has some self-esteem (she's experienced small town gossip) and daddy issues. Zeke has been her best friend since they were little and she's secretly "in love" with him. Shea is the girl that moves in the summer after high school and the non-stop drama ensues. She is like a hurricane and causes trouble all around this small town. And Luke is this 35yr old single father and bartender who totally understands Dawn and her views on life.
This book was very well written and the plot was utterly amazing. I haven't read anything like this book. I would love to tell you exactly what happened, but I would hate to give anything away. I will just say that this book had my emotions all over the place and I highly recommend giving this book a try, I promise you won't regret it.
February 17, 2016
*Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
Oh my goodness!!!!! I. Am. In. Love.
I have a soft spot for Lilliana since she was the first author to contact me and my respect for her keeps growing with every book I read from her. This book is by far my favorite book from her.
This story was unbelievable. I don't even think I can make it any justice with this review but I will try my best.
This story follows Dawn, an outsider in her hometown in Australia who has a best friend, Zeke, who is also an outsider. They bonded over how different they were ti everybody else around them and they can't wait to get away. This book starts with them witnessing a new neighbor moving into the house next door to Dawn. From that moment on, their lives are never the same again. I grew protective over Dawn as the story progressed. Something that made me respect Lilliana even more was the fact that she had Dawn experience some things that I've never seen another character experience before. It was amazing to witness her reactions to them and it made me love her as much as I would a sibling.
All of the character developments were beyond realistic and I was proud for the most part. I say 'for the most part' because I didn't expect the plot line to go the way it did with certain characters. I was taken by surprise and it mostly saddened me because I HATED seeing those things happening to Dawn without being able to help her.
I fell in love with the characters at first glance, except for the newcomer, Shea. I never liked her and I finished the book not liking her. But obviously she didn't ruin my experience one bit. I grew to respect her part of the story. She was an important factor in shaping the characters I love into who they turned out to be and for that, I don't regret meeting her.
Now, I HAVE to dedicate a section to the wonderful specimen that is Luke McIntosh (I think I'm spelling that right). He is everything and so much more that I expect of a man, in a book and real life. Notice how I say man instead of boy? Anyway, the Luke scenes were by far my favorites. He was genuine, loyal, caring, and wasn't afraid to tell Dawn what she needed to hear. He's exactly the type of person that Dawn was in need for in her chaotic life and I bow down to Lilliana for making it happen. He's an older character but I didn't mind that at all, I don't know why anybody would. He had me smiling like a lunatic with the perfection that spilled out of his lips. My heart will forever yearn for more Luke scenes!!!
I can't tell you how many times I cried and smiled over these characters. My cheeks hurt for a lot of different reasons but I don't regret an of it. This is EXACTLY how a romance novel should be written. I reached the end with a triumphant feeling inside my chest and it was world-shattering. This roller coaster ride was rough and scary, but so incredibly rewarding.
Some of the things that happened between the characters scared me... only because it made me realize that it could happen to any of us at any given time and we wouldn't be able to see it coming. Just like it happened to Dawn.
This book isn't just an amazing work of fiction, it is a piece of treasure. It makes you think about your own life and question what you know. It teaches you that sometimes you idolize the people closest to you and sometimes they turn out to be no better than the people you have been avoiding your entire life. It teaches you that sometimes love can be found in the most unexpected of places and most importantly, you must grow to love yourself before you can ask for the same in return. That last lesson hit me to the core since it's something that I have struggled with my entire life. This book voiced a lot of my personal outlooks in life and it impacted me that much more.
I broke and I rejoiced. I laughed and I cried but now my heart is in mourning. My heart hurts so much since I know that this is a standalone. I won't be able to revisit these characters and I am in denial. I can't ever accept that...
Oh my goodness!!!!! I. Am. In. Love.
I have a soft spot for Lilliana since she was the first author to contact me and my respect for her keeps growing with every book I read from her. This book is by far my favorite book from her.
This story was unbelievable. I don't even think I can make it any justice with this review but I will try my best.
This story follows Dawn, an outsider in her hometown in Australia who has a best friend, Zeke, who is also an outsider. They bonded over how different they were ti everybody else around them and they can't wait to get away. This book starts with them witnessing a new neighbor moving into the house next door to Dawn. From that moment on, their lives are never the same again. I grew protective over Dawn as the story progressed. Something that made me respect Lilliana even more was the fact that she had Dawn experience some things that I've never seen another character experience before. It was amazing to witness her reactions to them and it made me love her as much as I would a sibling.
All of the character developments were beyond realistic and I was proud for the most part. I say 'for the most part' because I didn't expect the plot line to go the way it did with certain characters. I was taken by surprise and it mostly saddened me because I HATED seeing those things happening to Dawn without being able to help her.
I fell in love with the characters at first glance, except for the newcomer, Shea. I never liked her and I finished the book not liking her. But obviously she didn't ruin my experience one bit. I grew to respect her part of the story. She was an important factor in shaping the characters I love into who they turned out to be and for that, I don't regret meeting her.
Now, I HAVE to dedicate a section to the wonderful specimen that is Luke McIntosh (I think I'm spelling that right). He is everything and so much more that I expect of a man, in a book and real life. Notice how I say man instead of boy? Anyway, the Luke scenes were by far my favorites. He was genuine, loyal, caring, and wasn't afraid to tell Dawn what she needed to hear. He's exactly the type of person that Dawn was in need for in her chaotic life and I bow down to Lilliana for making it happen. He's an older character but I didn't mind that at all, I don't know why anybody would. He had me smiling like a lunatic with the perfection that spilled out of his lips. My heart will forever yearn for more Luke scenes!!!
I can't tell you how many times I cried and smiled over these characters. My cheeks hurt for a lot of different reasons but I don't regret an of it. This is EXACTLY how a romance novel should be written. I reached the end with a triumphant feeling inside my chest and it was world-shattering. This roller coaster ride was rough and scary, but so incredibly rewarding.
Some of the things that happened between the characters scared me... only because it made me realize that it could happen to any of us at any given time and we wouldn't be able to see it coming. Just like it happened to Dawn.
This book isn't just an amazing work of fiction, it is a piece of treasure. It makes you think about your own life and question what you know. It teaches you that sometimes you idolize the people closest to you and sometimes they turn out to be no better than the people you have been avoiding your entire life. It teaches you that sometimes love can be found in the most unexpected of places and most importantly, you must grow to love yourself before you can ask for the same in return. That last lesson hit me to the core since it's something that I have struggled with my entire life. This book voiced a lot of my personal outlooks in life and it impacted me that much more.
I broke and I rejoiced. I laughed and I cried but now my heart is in mourning. My heart hurts so much since I know that this is a standalone. I won't be able to revisit these characters and I am in denial. I can't ever accept that...
January 8, 2016
Copy received from author for an honest review.
Lilliana Anderson has done it again!
In The Wind is a beautiful, but at times gut wrenching and heart breaking story of growing up. Of love, of loss, of wanting to fit in. Of sexual awakenings, of finding out who you really are, and of who your friends really are.
Dawn Tucker - I could relate to her well. I had my friends, but didn't fit in with the "cool kids". Though looking back, that's not a bad thing at all!
Dawn and Zeke have been inseparable for years - until one day a fresh breath of air blows into Hargraves Cove, in the shape of Shea.
Right from the start, I didn't know whether I liked Shea or not. And as the story progressed, there were many a times when I wanted to push her off a cliff! Seriously, the more we got to know the girl, the more I disliked her!
And Zeke - he broke my heart. A thoughtless, selfish boy that I wanted to nut punch.
You may have noted that Ms Anderson has brought out the violence in me with this one!
Then there is Luke. Sweet, beautiful Luke. I just wanted to lean over and whisper
I don't want to give anything away with what happens in the story, but I do want to say that I feel that everyone got what they deserved.
In The Wind is Dawn's beautiful story, but have some tissues handy, as I am sure you will tear up at least once while reading!
Lilliana Anderson has done it again!
In The Wind is a beautiful, but at times gut wrenching and heart breaking story of growing up. Of love, of loss, of wanting to fit in. Of sexual awakenings, of finding out who you really are, and of who your friends really are.
Dawn Tucker - I could relate to her well. I had my friends, but didn't fit in with the "cool kids". Though looking back, that's not a bad thing at all!
Dawn and Zeke have been inseparable for years - until one day a fresh breath of air blows into Hargraves Cove, in the shape of Shea.
Right from the start, I didn't know whether I liked Shea or not. And as the story progressed, there were many a times when I wanted to push her off a cliff! Seriously, the more we got to know the girl, the more I disliked her!
And Zeke - he broke my heart. A thoughtless, selfish boy that I wanted to nut punch.
You may have noted that Ms Anderson has brought out the violence in me with this one!
Then there is Luke. Sweet, beautiful Luke. I just wanted to lean over and whisper
I don't want to give anything away with what happens in the story, but I do want to say that I feel that everyone got what they deserved.
In The Wind is Dawn's beautiful story, but have some tissues handy, as I am sure you will tear up at least once while reading!
January 11, 2016
An Exciting Page Turner, From Beginning to End!!!
I was so happy and honored to be chosen to review Lilliana Anderson’s newest book. I’ve read several of her books previously, and they’ve all been simply amazing! So, of course, I was very excited to read this one. But I had NO idea *JUST* how good it would be!!!! As I said in this review’s title… it was a page-turner from beginning to end… and I could NOT put this book down, until I finished it!!!! I just HAD to find out what happened next! (Note: I was also VERY happy about, and very much appreciated that this was a stand-alone book, without any dreaded cliffhangers!)
Lilliana’s writing is flawless and her story flows so well, that you feel literally pulled-into it, as if you were there watching it in real life! I loved her main character and heroine of the story, Dawn. It was a bit of a coming of age story for Dawn, as she transitioned from teenager to young adult entering the real world. Yet, this book is nothing like your typical coming of age story, with all the different characters, sub-plots, and twists and turns it takes! (Not to mention some steamy scenes along the way as well!) ;)
So, if you’re looking for something new, different, and especially exciting.. this is the book you want to one-click right now!!!! You won’t be disappointed. So, go ahead and give this one a read, as you’re sure to enjoy every minute of this amazing 5-STAR story!!!!!
Way to go on another incredible story Ms. Anderson!!! I can’t wait to read your next one!!!
I was so happy and honored to be chosen to review Lilliana Anderson’s newest book. I’ve read several of her books previously, and they’ve all been simply amazing! So, of course, I was very excited to read this one. But I had NO idea *JUST* how good it would be!!!! As I said in this review’s title… it was a page-turner from beginning to end… and I could NOT put this book down, until I finished it!!!! I just HAD to find out what happened next! (Note: I was also VERY happy about, and very much appreciated that this was a stand-alone book, without any dreaded cliffhangers!)
Lilliana’s writing is flawless and her story flows so well, that you feel literally pulled-into it, as if you were there watching it in real life! I loved her main character and heroine of the story, Dawn. It was a bit of a coming of age story for Dawn, as she transitioned from teenager to young adult entering the real world. Yet, this book is nothing like your typical coming of age story, with all the different characters, sub-plots, and twists and turns it takes! (Not to mention some steamy scenes along the way as well!) ;)
So, if you’re looking for something new, different, and especially exciting.. this is the book you want to one-click right now!!!! You won’t be disappointed. So, go ahead and give this one a read, as you’re sure to enjoy every minute of this amazing 5-STAR story!!!!!
Way to go on another incredible story Ms. Anderson!!! I can’t wait to read your next one!!!
January 15, 2016
6 STARS
This book is - in a word - emotional. It's beautiful and brutal, honest and raw. It's a coming of age story of self-discovery and learning what matters.
Dawn considers herself the outcast of her small beach community. She and her best friend Zeke since childhood, and the two are inseparable. They have an us against the world mentality, especially when it comes to the other kids their ages. Dawn is every teenage girl. She's trying to figure out who she is, who she wants to be, and what she wants out of life.
Shea moves in next door and immediately immerses herself into Dawn and Zekes world. She's different; free. A young girl with worldly knowledge beyond her years. But like a lot of free spirits, there's an underlying current running through them. Shea is an incredible character.
This book is hopeful and heartbreaking. I found myself more than one having to take a deep breath, clutching my e-reader to my chest, praying that what I thought was about to happen really wasn't going to. That's how well Lilliana wrote this story. You don't feel like you're reading a work of fiction, but rather that you're living it with them. Every scenario, every feeling, you are in. You feel right along with them. This isn't a lighthearted book, but that's not to say that there aren't lighthearted moments. And the supporting characters make the book very well rounded.
I can't say enough about this book. It will touch all of your emotions. You will think about Dawn and Shea long after you've read the last word.
This book is - in a word - emotional. It's beautiful and brutal, honest and raw. It's a coming of age story of self-discovery and learning what matters.
Dawn considers herself the outcast of her small beach community. She and her best friend Zeke since childhood, and the two are inseparable. They have an us against the world mentality, especially when it comes to the other kids their ages. Dawn is every teenage girl. She's trying to figure out who she is, who she wants to be, and what she wants out of life.
Shea moves in next door and immediately immerses herself into Dawn and Zekes world. She's different; free. A young girl with worldly knowledge beyond her years. But like a lot of free spirits, there's an underlying current running through them. Shea is an incredible character.
This book is hopeful and heartbreaking. I found myself more than one having to take a deep breath, clutching my e-reader to my chest, praying that what I thought was about to happen really wasn't going to. That's how well Lilliana wrote this story. You don't feel like you're reading a work of fiction, but rather that you're living it with them. Every scenario, every feeling, you are in. You feel right along with them. This isn't a lighthearted book, but that's not to say that there aren't lighthearted moments. And the supporting characters make the book very well rounded.
I can't say enough about this book. It will touch all of your emotions. You will think about Dawn and Shea long after you've read the last word.
January 11, 2016
In the Wind is truly how one of the characters, Shea, lived in the book. She was a fly by the seat of your pants kinda of girl. Very carefree and wanted to live life to the fullest. Her visit to the Cove changed the lives of Zeke and Dawn. This book hit on a few taboo situations that made me a little uncomfortable but it didn't take away from the great story line. I read this book in 1.5 days because I couldn't and didn't want to put it down. The flow of the story makes you feel as though you are right there with each person walking in their shoes. It was easy to picture being the outcast in the the little town, not having a lot of female friends, wanting to be with "that" person that society says you shouldn't because of age, looks etc. Dawn experienced so much in just the short time of meeting Shea than she had her whole enter life. Oh and I loved Luke!!! He was such a caring, sweet individual and he tried his hardest to fight his feelings but true love won in the end. I would have loved to get more of him in the book vs. Shea and Zeke but it was all needed to bring the story together. Now that ending was a little erie........................ not your typical HEA but still a HFN.
******** Received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review********************
******** Received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review********************
January 22, 2016
In the Wind is a great read! One that makes you think about life and all that happens!
Dawn has been best friends with Zeke forever and even though she would like their relationship to be more, it's not!
The new neighbor, Shea, brings with her a whole free spirit new look on life and teaches Dawn and Zeke all about the different things in life!
But with the wind comes Shea and when she disappears it's like she left on the wind!
A great story that I enjoyed because it's a different than what I normally read!
Dawn has been best friends with Zeke forever and even though she would like their relationship to be more, it's not!
The new neighbor, Shea, brings with her a whole free spirit new look on life and teaches Dawn and Zeke all about the different things in life!
But with the wind comes Shea and when she disappears it's like she left on the wind!
A great story that I enjoyed because it's a different than what I normally read!
January 28, 2016
Copy of book given by author for a honest review..
God I love Lilliana Anderson.. Everything of hers I have read I have LOVED!!!! This one is not any different. I love how she can pull you into the book.. Make you feel as though you are right there with a front row seat to what's going on..
This book was just amazing.. I loved every moment of it...
God I love Lilliana Anderson.. Everything of hers I have read I have LOVED!!!! This one is not any different. I love how she can pull you into the book.. Make you feel as though you are right there with a front row seat to what's going on..
This book was just amazing.. I loved every moment of it...
December 11, 2017
Beautiful Coming of Age
I truly felt a range of emotions reading this book, everything from happiness to utter despair.
Dawn is 18 & ready to leave her home town, she has a plan and her best friend Zeke along for the ride but she’s in love with him, he unfortunately doesn’t share the same feelings. She has an physically absent Farther & an emotionally absent Mother.
One night a beautiful lively girl invades Dawn and Zekes perfect twosome. Shea is like a breath of fresh air and mysterious to boot.
Dawn is so unbelievably lucky to have a great friend in Luke, he’s older and has suffered a huge loss all while raising his son.
So many strange and awkward and horrible things happen to these three unlikely friends. Things that shape and change them all for ever.
In The Wind is beautifully written and a great read!!!
I truly felt a range of emotions reading this book, everything from happiness to utter despair.
Dawn is 18 & ready to leave her home town, she has a plan and her best friend Zeke along for the ride but she’s in love with him, he unfortunately doesn’t share the same feelings. She has an physically absent Farther & an emotionally absent Mother.
One night a beautiful lively girl invades Dawn and Zekes perfect twosome. Shea is like a breath of fresh air and mysterious to boot.
Dawn is so unbelievably lucky to have a great friend in Luke, he’s older and has suffered a huge loss all while raising his son.
So many strange and awkward and horrible things happen to these three unlikely friends. Things that shape and change them all for ever.
In The Wind is beautifully written and a great read!!!
January 4, 2023
Well, it looks like I'm the sole voice of dissension her, so be it.
This book is the epitome of New Adult to me... angst, high stakes angst which is nothing more than pure utter emotional manipulation. NA is not necessarily about the age of the MC/s so much as about these overly emotional stories that are deliberately meant to wring you out mentally.
Yes it made me weep a number of times (but I'm easy that way), and the writing was at times beautiful and lyrical but literally EVERYTHING in Dawn's life, as well as her attitude towards virtually everyone else in her town was a shitshow.
This book is the epitome of New Adult to me... angst, high stakes angst which is nothing more than pure utter emotional manipulation. NA is not necessarily about the age of the MC/s so much as about these overly emotional stories that are deliberately meant to wring you out mentally.
Yes it made me weep a number of times (but I'm easy that way), and the writing was at times beautiful and lyrical but literally EVERYTHING in Dawn's life, as well as her attitude towards virtually everyone else in her town was a shitshow.
December 11, 2017
I like this book, because of the narration and how the story goes. The story itself is about messed-up lives of 3 youths who have too much time to indulge themselves. And because it's written in Australian setting, the story has different depth.
October 4, 2016
This is the second standalone book I have read by Lilliana and once again she delivers a fantastic angsty story that consumed me. I usually prefer older characters, but Dawn's story was interesting and had me on edge and the addition of Luke rounded off the story for me.
January 11, 2016
I was given a copy of this book by the author for free with the knowledge that I would give an honest review not impacted by that.
I wasn't sure of the character Shea. I couldn't understand her and those types of views in a person so young. Her family situation definitely was a shocker. When she makes an exit from Hargrove Cove, I was turned off of the story. There were two ways that it could have gone and I'm not sure either path would have made me happy. At least, with this way, Anderson brought it full circle and Dawn's thoughts at the end made it perfect.
But Shea didn't only confuse me; she confused Zeke and Dawn as well. Dawn struggled with her feelings for Zeke and with Shea's interest, especially with the "free love" aspect. The sexual comments drove a wedge between her and Zeke, but Shea pushed her further. Shea created experiences that confused and made Dawn question her ideals and the idea of love. And Zeke was just a pawn in Shea's game that went along with sharing. His motives were thoroughly questioned -- did he sleep with Dawn because he was attracted to her or because Shea put the idea in his head or because he was afraid of losing her and their friendship? By the end, Zeke was the one that saddened me the most.
I'll admit that I stopped seeing Dawn as a "new adult" at eighteen or just a kid. She always had the voice of a woman in her wise thirties to me. She was forced to grow up too soon and care for a mother that would rather drink and screw to forget the husband that cheated and left. She was the outcast in a small town where even her love for her mother hurt her. She bore the same snide comments and derogatory names for nothing but buying condoms to protect the only family she has left. But it's so easy to see age when times get hard, her mother tries too late to be that parent and joins the town in forcing a reputation onto Dawn's shoulders. Rejection on the idea of monogamy tore Dawn's family, and life, apart -- twice -- in different ways.
The theme of fluid sexuality is evident in every character. The parents -- adultery and multiple partners. Shea -- Zeke, Dawn, free love, multiple partners. Zeke -- Shea, Dawn, almost every girl in Hargrove Cove. Dawn -- Zeke, Shea, age gaps. It's a time of transition in their lives where it's expected to experiment. Anderson not only touches on the obvious homosexuality aspect of fluid sexuality but also relations and group sex. In the end, it's a book that makes you think and a great story that makes the ride enjoyable.
Maybe, by design, Shea and Dawn were meant to be the same. Both are abandoned by a parent and forced to look after the other that falls to their vices. They'd be the same character if it weren't for their opinions on sexuality and love. At first I included their personalities, but it takes the whole book to find the real Dawn and they're exactly the same. They're two sides of a coin. Shea is open and wild; Dawn is reserved and conservative. Shea believes in feeling good and sex; Dawn believes in connection and love. It's like the day Dawn's father left -- making her same choices gives her this life of protecting her mother or following her parents' examples of monogamy being inhumane gives her Shea's life. One choice made the biggest difference in her life.
I wasn't sure of the character Shea. I couldn't understand her and those types of views in a person so young. Her family situation definitely was a shocker. When she makes an exit from Hargrove Cove, I was turned off of the story. There were two ways that it could have gone and I'm not sure either path would have made me happy. At least, with this way, Anderson brought it full circle and Dawn's thoughts at the end made it perfect.
But Shea didn't only confuse me; she confused Zeke and Dawn as well. Dawn struggled with her feelings for Zeke and with Shea's interest, especially with the "free love" aspect. The sexual comments drove a wedge between her and Zeke, but Shea pushed her further. Shea created experiences that confused and made Dawn question her ideals and the idea of love. And Zeke was just a pawn in Shea's game that went along with sharing. His motives were thoroughly questioned -- did he sleep with Dawn because he was attracted to her or because Shea put the idea in his head or because he was afraid of losing her and their friendship? By the end, Zeke was the one that saddened me the most.
I'll admit that I stopped seeing Dawn as a "new adult" at eighteen or just a kid. She always had the voice of a woman in her wise thirties to me. She was forced to grow up too soon and care for a mother that would rather drink and screw to forget the husband that cheated and left. She was the outcast in a small town where even her love for her mother hurt her. She bore the same snide comments and derogatory names for nothing but buying condoms to protect the only family she has left. But it's so easy to see age when times get hard, her mother tries too late to be that parent and joins the town in forcing a reputation onto Dawn's shoulders. Rejection on the idea of monogamy tore Dawn's family, and life, apart -- twice -- in different ways.
The theme of fluid sexuality is evident in every character. The parents -- adultery and multiple partners. Shea -- Zeke, Dawn, free love, multiple partners. Zeke -- Shea, Dawn, almost every girl in Hargrove Cove. Dawn -- Zeke, Shea, age gaps. It's a time of transition in their lives where it's expected to experiment. Anderson not only touches on the obvious homosexuality aspect of fluid sexuality but also relations and group sex. In the end, it's a book that makes you think and a great story that makes the ride enjoyable.
Maybe, by design, Shea and Dawn were meant to be the same. Both are abandoned by a parent and forced to look after the other that falls to their vices. They'd be the same character if it weren't for their opinions on sexuality and love. At first I included their personalities, but it takes the whole book to find the real Dawn and they're exactly the same. They're two sides of a coin. Shea is open and wild; Dawn is reserved and conservative. Shea believes in feeling good and sex; Dawn believes in connection and love. It's like the day Dawn's father left -- making her same choices gives her this life of protecting her mother or following her parents' examples of monogamy being inhumane gives her Shea's life. One choice made the biggest difference in her life.
January 18, 2016
Wow. This book held me captive from the beginning. As normal Lilliana Anderson has delivered another great story.
The story revolves around friends. 2 that have been friends since childhood and one that came into their life In the wind at the beginning of summer. The year they turned 18.
Dawn is very old fashion in a way. Her ideals of what love is, what life is, and who her true friends are in the end. She believes in trust and she thought she found this in her friends. Her mother is divorced and has other ideals in her life. Her mother lives in her own world of men and one night stands and alcohol,which Dawn feels is very wrong in life. Dawn has simple thoughts of love and how you should love. Not to care about what others think about her, but to think of what is right by her mind in life. She seems to be lost in her own world until the day Shea moves in next door, one stormy night dancing in the rain. Dawn thought she found a true friend in Shea.
Zeke is a life long friend of Dawns. They have been best friends since he lived across the street. Shea tells them that they have to make this best summer ever full of adventure. But when Shea comes into the friendship Dawns ideal of who she loves and what love is changes. Dawn is sure she loves Zeke until Shea puts other ideas in her head. She taught them to dig deeper in their hearts to see her way of life.
Shea is a 18 year old that believes that love is nothing but a free for all and that she spreads herself to all of Hargrave Cove with an energy and excitement that forced all to see who they were and what they meant to each other. Shea installs feelings into Dawn that has Dawn so very confused and brings out emotions in Dawn that she has kept at bay. Shea was full of life and had such different ideas on what life is about. Until the day Shea is has gone Into the wind just like she came in on the wind.
Luke a widowed 35 year old father was a dear friend of Dawns. They both shared the love of movies from different decades. Luke was the bartender at the local pub where Dawn loved to go to. He's afraid of what other people think of him until one day Dawn told him different but this was put in her head from the free will spirited Shea. Luke has to dig in his heart to believe what Dawn tells him. When he does its almost too late. The day that Dawn and Luke decide to surf together she gets to know who the real Luke is and why he is standing back from her.
I found this story very full of life from 3 18 year olds that each got lost that summer and found their own way in life in the end. Dawn lost herself that summer then she found herself and she found out what true love is and who it is with.
I really recommend this book to be READ. It teaches us what life is really about and not a big party of screw ups. It teaches you to trust your own feelings and your own belief in what's right from wrong no matter what anyone else tells you. Dawn found this that summer and she found out what the true feeling of what love is in the end.
This book is definitely a 5* read. The characters are so strong in the book and I loved each of them. All 3 of them each have their own ideas of life and emotions.
The story revolves around friends. 2 that have been friends since childhood and one that came into their life In the wind at the beginning of summer. The year they turned 18.
Dawn is very old fashion in a way. Her ideals of what love is, what life is, and who her true friends are in the end. She believes in trust and she thought she found this in her friends. Her mother is divorced and has other ideals in her life. Her mother lives in her own world of men and one night stands and alcohol,which Dawn feels is very wrong in life. Dawn has simple thoughts of love and how you should love. Not to care about what others think about her, but to think of what is right by her mind in life. She seems to be lost in her own world until the day Shea moves in next door, one stormy night dancing in the rain. Dawn thought she found a true friend in Shea.
Zeke is a life long friend of Dawns. They have been best friends since he lived across the street. Shea tells them that they have to make this best summer ever full of adventure. But when Shea comes into the friendship Dawns ideal of who she loves and what love is changes. Dawn is sure she loves Zeke until Shea puts other ideas in her head. She taught them to dig deeper in their hearts to see her way of life.
Shea is a 18 year old that believes that love is nothing but a free for all and that she spreads herself to all of Hargrave Cove with an energy and excitement that forced all to see who they were and what they meant to each other. Shea installs feelings into Dawn that has Dawn so very confused and brings out emotions in Dawn that she has kept at bay. Shea was full of life and had such different ideas on what life is about. Until the day Shea is has gone Into the wind just like she came in on the wind.
Luke a widowed 35 year old father was a dear friend of Dawns. They both shared the love of movies from different decades. Luke was the bartender at the local pub where Dawn loved to go to. He's afraid of what other people think of him until one day Dawn told him different but this was put in her head from the free will spirited Shea. Luke has to dig in his heart to believe what Dawn tells him. When he does its almost too late. The day that Dawn and Luke decide to surf together she gets to know who the real Luke is and why he is standing back from her.
I found this story very full of life from 3 18 year olds that each got lost that summer and found their own way in life in the end. Dawn lost herself that summer then she found herself and she found out what true love is and who it is with.
I really recommend this book to be READ. It teaches us what life is really about and not a big party of screw ups. It teaches you to trust your own feelings and your own belief in what's right from wrong no matter what anyone else tells you. Dawn found this that summer and she found out what the true feeling of what love is in the end.
This book is definitely a 5* read. The characters are so strong in the book and I loved each of them. All 3 of them each have their own ideas of life and emotions.
January 15, 2016
I got this book from the author in exchange for an honest review...
O.M.G. this book... THANK YOU LILLIANA!!!! I am big fan and was super excited to get a change to read another one of her boooks!
this book will take you on an emotional roller coaster. The ups, the downs, and the W.T.F. moments..
Dawn was an "old soul" she didn't believe in using cell phones and never watched any new movies. she loved her black and whites. She loved to read and was perfectly happy staying in her room until she left for college. her mom was a big whore.. no offense, but the writing is on the walls.. her dad left her and wanted nothing to do with her expect pay for her and her mothers expenses. so she did what any teenager did.. she shopped!!!
Dawn was in love with her best friend Zeke. they both planned on going to college together and this was going to be their last summer together.. they were going to make it count! that was until a new girl moved next door. Zeke couldn't take his eyes of her and Dawn couldn't either.
this story is about new beginning, finding one self, and heartache. nobody said growing up would be easy.!! Dawn has to figure out what she wants in life. she wants her best friend, who she can clearly tell doesn't want her back, she is also curious about her sex life and this new girl Shea, lastly, she is also in love with her bartender Luke who is 35 years old and has a child.
Dawn is hit with a big whammy when her father cuts her off. now she has to decided what she is going to do. meanwhile her mom is spiraling out of control and she has to be the adult and that is hard enough. she made a move on Zeke and things didn't turn out good and also had her first sexual experience with a girl. Then when nothing else could go wrong she pushes the one man who is nice to her away. now she has no one.. Dawn will get herself into some pretty sticky situations and she has to figure out on her own who is with her or who is against her.
I found myself yelling not only at dawn when i was reading this book but at Luke and Zeke. you cannot help but have a great relationship with these characters because the author did such a great job making you feel like you were in the story as well. I am not going to ruin this ending or the story but you will have to choose who you think she is going to be with and then be completely shocked after reading. or if you picked right ..happy!
O.M.G. this book... THANK YOU LILLIANA!!!! I am big fan and was super excited to get a change to read another one of her boooks!
this book will take you on an emotional roller coaster. The ups, the downs, and the W.T.F. moments..
Dawn was an "old soul" she didn't believe in using cell phones and never watched any new movies. she loved her black and whites. She loved to read and was perfectly happy staying in her room until she left for college. her mom was a big whore.. no offense, but the writing is on the walls.. her dad left her and wanted nothing to do with her expect pay for her and her mothers expenses. so she did what any teenager did.. she shopped!!!
Dawn was in love with her best friend Zeke. they both planned on going to college together and this was going to be their last summer together.. they were going to make it count! that was until a new girl moved next door. Zeke couldn't take his eyes of her and Dawn couldn't either.
this story is about new beginning, finding one self, and heartache. nobody said growing up would be easy.!! Dawn has to figure out what she wants in life. she wants her best friend, who she can clearly tell doesn't want her back, she is also curious about her sex life and this new girl Shea, lastly, she is also in love with her bartender Luke who is 35 years old and has a child.
Dawn is hit with a big whammy when her father cuts her off. now she has to decided what she is going to do. meanwhile her mom is spiraling out of control and she has to be the adult and that is hard enough. she made a move on Zeke and things didn't turn out good and also had her first sexual experience with a girl. Then when nothing else could go wrong she pushes the one man who is nice to her away. now she has no one.. Dawn will get herself into some pretty sticky situations and she has to figure out on her own who is with her or who is against her.
I found myself yelling not only at dawn when i was reading this book but at Luke and Zeke. you cannot help but have a great relationship with these characters because the author did such a great job making you feel like you were in the story as well. I am not going to ruin this ending or the story but you will have to choose who you think she is going to be with and then be completely shocked after reading. or if you picked right ..happy!
Read
January 23, 2016This was a very fast read. Dawn has been in love with her best friend Zeke for years. When they were younger they were the outcast because of their looks. Years later Zeke grew into his body and became very handsome. Dawn still felt unattractive and so both of them had their own click just been together. The novel takes place as they are finishing up school and in the midst of waiting to be accepted to University. One night as Zeke is at Dawn's house they realize someone is moving in next door. As they looking out they spot a girl who looks like their age dancing in the rain. Zeke goes out to meet her while Dawn stays watching. The arrival of Shea changes everything in Zeke and Dawn's relationship. Shea is a young lady who believes in free love and so begins the tumultous relationship of these three young teens. Dawn believes in one person to love and secretly wish Zeke would return her love but when he does in his way it is not what she expected. There's some scenes in this novel that is a bit disconcerted for the eyes but I understood why the author felt the need to include and again this is the way of life for some of our teenagers in the time we are living in. A lot emotional twist and turn. The very great saving grace of this novel is the lovely Luke, a thirty five year old bartender who Dawn connects with though she at first see's friendship but as time goes by wonder is the love she thinks she feels for Zeke real or what she feel for Luke.
Also the parent in this book is horrible. Dawn mom's goes around moping since her husband left and date and sleep with every man she could find while Dawn has become the mother. Shea stepfather is not who you think he is...theres a scene in the book that will blow your mind about him.
In total a completely different tone from previous books I have read of this author. In the end it's about being happy with who you are and not allowing others to cloud and change your judgement.
...This book was ARC given to me by the author.
Also the parent in this book is horrible. Dawn mom's goes around moping since her husband left and date and sleep with every man she could find while Dawn has become the mother. Shea stepfather is not who you think he is...theres a scene in the book that will blow your mind about him.
In total a completely different tone from previous books I have read of this author. In the end it's about being happy with who you are and not allowing others to cloud and change your judgement.
...This book was ARC given to me by the author.
January 12, 2016
Dawn Tucker had never fit into the quiet seaside town that she lived in. She and her best friend Zeke couldn't wait to get away and go college. This was their last summer and then they could finally say goodbye but the summer didn't go as planned. It started out like any other summer until she came to town. A beautiful girl that looked like she was off her rocker because she was twirling like a crazy girl in the rain as if she had not a care in the world. Zeke was instantly drawn to her but Dawn was reserved as usual from meeting new people. Dawn was what you would call an "old soul". She preferred old classic movies to today's, vintage clothes and she didn't believe in cell phones so what good would it do to try and make friends with a girl her age knowing that they were all alike? Shea wasn't like girls her age though, she was smart and had views like none she had ever thought about. She confused Dawn and drew her in at the same time. What would happen when all of their lives spun out of control, what would the end of the summer bring now that Shea was in their lives?
This was a great book. It's a compelling story that draws you in and makes you feel for all of the characters. I loved Dawn and the way that her character grew throughout the story. She was remarkable and I came so close to tears a number of times because of the things she had to endure. I wasn't prepared for what would happen to the threesome and was caught of guard a number of times by the things that transpired. This is a story of self discovering and realizing that while you may believe one thing you're whole life that one thing may be what your mind believes that you want, it's your heart that will make the final decision for you.
I was given an ARC by Lilliana Anderson in return for an honest review.
This was a great book. It's a compelling story that draws you in and makes you feel for all of the characters. I loved Dawn and the way that her character grew throughout the story. She was remarkable and I came so close to tears a number of times because of the things she had to endure. I wasn't prepared for what would happen to the threesome and was caught of guard a number of times by the things that transpired. This is a story of self discovering and realizing that while you may believe one thing you're whole life that one thing may be what your mind believes that you want, it's your heart that will make the final decision for you.
I was given an ARC by Lilliana Anderson in return for an honest review.
March 8, 2016
In the Wind by Lillianna Anderson has virtually left me speechless. I have read Anderson's work before and I enjoyed the romantic reads. But In the Wind provided more than just romance.
It was a coming of age story with a lot of different treacheries within it. Dawn was the main character and she suffered the same fate many teens do----she wasn't accepted and so she rebelled and became as positively different and unique as a girl could get. Her best friend had been that one friend since they were small and then it happened. Hormones appeared and the best friend became a desirable guy in Dawn's eyes, but she couldn't share that info with him because her own self image suffered to such a low extreme. Then when the beautiful neighbor moved in all kinds of challenges occurred. Did Shea feel attracted to Zeke? He certainly was drawn to her. Or was Shea a quirky girl who liked girls ...like Dawn? This only scared and enthralled Dawn at the same time and she called her own sexuality into question. There was teen age drinking, drugging and sex on the rampage. There was adult-daughter sex abuse and mental status was questioned. Questions of abandonment and betrayal roused angst and reflections. This dealt with many many issues and the sexual content was quite explicit.
Every bit and piece contributed to the suspense and the sorrow that three teens brought upon themselves and upon each other as they struggled to survive being a teen. And those who were responsible for them as kids, weren't the best qualified to lead nor guide them through to adulthood.
It is purely and simply human nature to hold onto the tiniest grain of hope and this story had plenty of heart blended in that hope. It was romance, it was angst, it was tense, and it was mind blowing....all rolled into one book.
It was a coming of age story with a lot of different treacheries within it. Dawn was the main character and she suffered the same fate many teens do----she wasn't accepted and so she rebelled and became as positively different and unique as a girl could get. Her best friend had been that one friend since they were small and then it happened. Hormones appeared and the best friend became a desirable guy in Dawn's eyes, but she couldn't share that info with him because her own self image suffered to such a low extreme. Then when the beautiful neighbor moved in all kinds of challenges occurred. Did Shea feel attracted to Zeke? He certainly was drawn to her. Or was Shea a quirky girl who liked girls ...like Dawn? This only scared and enthralled Dawn at the same time and she called her own sexuality into question. There was teen age drinking, drugging and sex on the rampage. There was adult-daughter sex abuse and mental status was questioned. Questions of abandonment and betrayal roused angst and reflections. This dealt with many many issues and the sexual content was quite explicit.
Every bit and piece contributed to the suspense and the sorrow that three teens brought upon themselves and upon each other as they struggled to survive being a teen. And those who were responsible for them as kids, weren't the best qualified to lead nor guide them through to adulthood.
It is purely and simply human nature to hold onto the tiniest grain of hope and this story had plenty of heart blended in that hope. It was romance, it was angst, it was tense, and it was mind blowing....all rolled into one book.
January 12, 2016
I love Lilliana's writing style and the way her characters develop as their story unfolds. I wasn't sure what to think of In The Wind when I started but by the third page I was hooked. This is much more than just a coming of age story. It is complex and emotional and Dawn's life is by no means simple. Her lifelong friendship with Zeke is tested and seems like a sure thing. Her honest acceptance of Shea as she came into the story sets her up to make bad decisions that seemed right at the time. She wanted human contact, more friends and really needed love and acceptance for herself. After all she is a young adult and experiencing the myriad of emotions that come with that is hard enough. However couple them with issues of abandonment, alcoholism, having to grow up too quickly and you see why living from day to day can sometimes feel just too hard.
Dawn does find her HEA but it's not what you expect. The twists and turns and emotional investment I made in each character are stand out for me. I loved this book. There were also many reminders of my own life growing up and I came from a loving family home. We all experience some kind of angst growing up, it's normal. It's a reminder that the world is not as simple as we would like it for young adults and that our decisions could affect us for the rest of our lives.
I would love to see some help line information to deal with the subjects presented. There were several very real matters that affect all of us and one point or other in our life. It's great to see these issues presented in a real way and not swept wrapped up and prettied. The issues that come through In the Wind are significant to a YA's well being. They should never be seen as taboo and we should encourage young adults to discuss these more openly.
Dawn does find her HEA but it's not what you expect. The twists and turns and emotional investment I made in each character are stand out for me. I loved this book. There were also many reminders of my own life growing up and I came from a loving family home. We all experience some kind of angst growing up, it's normal. It's a reminder that the world is not as simple as we would like it for young adults and that our decisions could affect us for the rest of our lives.
I would love to see some help line information to deal with the subjects presented. There were several very real matters that affect all of us and one point or other in our life. It's great to see these issues presented in a real way and not swept wrapped up and prettied. The issues that come through In the Wind are significant to a YA's well being. They should never be seen as taboo and we should encourage young adults to discuss these more openly.
February 24, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I can’t believe this is the first book I am reading from Author Lilliana Anderson. In the Wind had me captivated from the first page until the last. I even found myself wanting more at the end of the story, which is huge for me.
Dawn thought she had it all planned out. She would love her best friend and they would leave for university together, maybe even have a happily ever after. This was what I thought the story was about until I kept reading. Boy, was I wrong.
In the Wind was a whirlwind. The things I thought that might happen didn’t and the curve balls the author threw knocked me off my seat. I loved every minute of it.
In the Wind was a beautifully written story. The characters were different and I liked that.
Dawn was a little stuck up but I understood that she had so much to handle and she always felt like the odd one. I enjoyed seeing her evolve and trying to find her own little place in the world.
Zeke, uh I don’t know how I feel about him even after the story ended. He came across as selfish and wasn’t that great of a friend in my eyes.
Luke *swoon*. How could anyone not love Luke. He was hot, caring, charming, a good listener and patient. I love that I slowly fell in love with him the more the author incorporated him into the story.
Then we have Shea. I thought she was on drugs for a good bit of the story. I think she was so lost but like a storm she could cause so much destruction.
Overall, In the Wind is truly a great story. It was well written, intense, the characters were likable (most of them) and the story made me feel. I was sad, excited at times and couldn’t finish the story fast enough. Great story!!!
I can’t believe this is the first book I am reading from Author Lilliana Anderson. In the Wind had me captivated from the first page until the last. I even found myself wanting more at the end of the story, which is huge for me.
Dawn thought she had it all planned out. She would love her best friend and they would leave for university together, maybe even have a happily ever after. This was what I thought the story was about until I kept reading. Boy, was I wrong.
In the Wind was a whirlwind. The things I thought that might happen didn’t and the curve balls the author threw knocked me off my seat. I loved every minute of it.
In the Wind was a beautifully written story. The characters were different and I liked that.
Dawn was a little stuck up but I understood that she had so much to handle and she always felt like the odd one. I enjoyed seeing her evolve and trying to find her own little place in the world.
Zeke, uh I don’t know how I feel about him even after the story ended. He came across as selfish and wasn’t that great of a friend in my eyes.
Luke *swoon*. How could anyone not love Luke. He was hot, caring, charming, a good listener and patient. I love that I slowly fell in love with him the more the author incorporated him into the story.
Then we have Shea. I thought she was on drugs for a good bit of the story. I think she was so lost but like a storm she could cause so much destruction.
Overall, In the Wind is truly a great story. It was well written, intense, the characters were likable (most of them) and the story made me feel. I was sad, excited at times and couldn’t finish the story fast enough. Great story!!!
January 16, 2016
The time between high school and college is often one of the most confusing times in a person's life. That is one of the reasons that the genre of "New Adult" has become so popular in recent years. Lilliana Anderson's novel does an exemplary job of showing just how confusing that time can be, especially for a young woman who has pretty much given up on fitting in in her small Austrailian town. When Dawn sees people moving into the house next door, during a storm, she has no idea how much of a storm her new neighbors will bring into her life. Over the summer after she and her best friend, Zeke, graduate from high school, Dawn faces many challenges to what she thought she knew about life, about love, about sexual attraction, and, mostly about herself.
There are many references to drinking among eighteen year-olds, which is legal in Australia. There are also scenes of drug use and attempted sexual assault. The sex scenes are explicit and frequent enough that the book really should be kept to adult readers. The sexuality portrayed by some of the characters is also not traditional in that it explores the boundaries of open relationships and multiple partners, and those relationships are not portrayed in the most positive light. If I have any complaint about the book, that is it. Other than that, I rather enjoyed the book and will definitely read more by this author.
Reviewed by HR Duby for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock
There are many references to drinking among eighteen year-olds, which is legal in Australia. There are also scenes of drug use and attempted sexual assault. The sex scenes are explicit and frequent enough that the book really should be kept to adult readers. The sexuality portrayed by some of the characters is also not traditional in that it explores the boundaries of open relationships and multiple partners, and those relationships are not portrayed in the most positive light. If I have any complaint about the book, that is it. Other than that, I rather enjoyed the book and will definitely read more by this author.
Reviewed by HR Duby for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock
January 13, 2016
Copy received from Author for review.
The beginning of this book had a very melancholic feel to it. To be honest, I didn’t want to like this book. But it pulled and sucked me in that I couldn’t put it down. They were so young. Mere kids made their lives so FUBAR in a blink of an eye. Being the outsiders, Dawn was striving so much for recognition and affection that she was easily swayed and blindsided. Zeke just turned out to be dead weight in their friendship. But Shea, although I wanted to stamp her as the villain, I couldn’t really. She was striving for affection as much as Dawn; she only went about it the wrong way.
Dawn was always confused, so lost. The only times I felt she was somewhat functioning normal are the times spent with Luke. Due to the matter with Luke I’d wished Dawn was older. At least 2 years, maybe? There was a part in the book where Dawn was so dejected about what’s going on in her life that I thought she would harm herself. Thank God she was stronger than that. I wanted to smack the living daylight out of Dawn’s parents although I knew they were fictional characters. HA!
This was a great story and I read it in one sitting. Thank you Ms. Anderson!
The beginning of this book had a very melancholic feel to it. To be honest, I didn’t want to like this book. But it pulled and sucked me in that I couldn’t put it down. They were so young. Mere kids made their lives so FUBAR in a blink of an eye. Being the outsiders, Dawn was striving so much for recognition and affection that she was easily swayed and blindsided. Zeke just turned out to be dead weight in their friendship. But Shea, although I wanted to stamp her as the villain, I couldn’t really. She was striving for affection as much as Dawn; she only went about it the wrong way.
Dawn was always confused, so lost. The only times I felt she was somewhat functioning normal are the times spent with Luke. Due to the matter with Luke I’d wished Dawn was older. At least 2 years, maybe? There was a part in the book where Dawn was so dejected about what’s going on in her life that I thought she would harm herself. Thank God she was stronger than that. I wanted to smack the living daylight out of Dawn’s parents although I knew they were fictional characters. HA!
This was a great story and I read it in one sitting. Thank you Ms. Anderson!
January 16, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lilliana Anderson is one of those authors that can capture your attention and make you feel apart of the story.
Dawn is a young girl that thinks she knows what she wants. She think she's going to leave her little town of wannabes and head of to Uni in a few months with her best friend Zeke. She thinks everything will stay the same in her little world. Like any good love story Dawn has admired her friend from afar. Both being unique from the in crowd. Their bond seemed indestructible... that is until the change in the wind.
One stormy day a new girl blows into town and turns every relationship Dawn knows into mush of confusion. Shea is known as a free spirit; someone who follows the wind. She doesn't care much as to what others think. Shea can befriend and charm the pants off of anyone.
After a few times hanging out Dawn thinks she may have found a new best friend. With a sick turn of events, Dawn has found out who her really friends are and also finds a way to move on with the love of her life.
Will Dawn get to accomplish her dream and head off to Uni? Or will she crumple and fall down a path she wouldn't think of taking?
Lilliana Anderson is one of those authors that can capture your attention and make you feel apart of the story.
Dawn is a young girl that thinks she knows what she wants. She think she's going to leave her little town of wannabes and head of to Uni in a few months with her best friend Zeke. She thinks everything will stay the same in her little world. Like any good love story Dawn has admired her friend from afar. Both being unique from the in crowd. Their bond seemed indestructible... that is until the change in the wind.
One stormy day a new girl blows into town and turns every relationship Dawn knows into mush of confusion. Shea is known as a free spirit; someone who follows the wind. She doesn't care much as to what others think. Shea can befriend and charm the pants off of anyone.
After a few times hanging out Dawn thinks she may have found a new best friend. With a sick turn of events, Dawn has found out who her really friends are and also finds a way to move on with the love of her life.
Will Dawn get to accomplish her dream and head off to Uni? Or will she crumple and fall down a path she wouldn't think of taking?
January 19, 2016
ARC copy exchanged for an honest review
In the wind is the kind of story that makes you think about the world around you and the reason why people come in and out of your life. Dawn is no different from any young girl trying to figure out about herself and trying to fit in. Best friend Zeke was her best mate all her life and she thought he was the one. One stormy she meets Shea, a free spirit of a girl that thinks and acts like she knows everything but really nothing at all.
I hated Dawn’s mother with a passion and wanted her to smack her mom so many times in the book, but I have to believe selfish people like that will get their own in the end. Dawn’s only saving grace is Luke, the single dad working at the Palm’s. He truly sees the beauty that is Dawn but because of the age difference and raising a son on his own, he treads lightly.
The story of Dawn is enlightening and just makes you think about why we meet the people we meet and how their interaction with you opens your eyes to many different things. It’s a coming of age for an old soul living life in a your person’s body but also teaches you life lessons in the end.
In the wind is the kind of story that makes you think about the world around you and the reason why people come in and out of your life. Dawn is no different from any young girl trying to figure out about herself and trying to fit in. Best friend Zeke was her best mate all her life and she thought he was the one. One stormy she meets Shea, a free spirit of a girl that thinks and acts like she knows everything but really nothing at all.
I hated Dawn’s mother with a passion and wanted her to smack her mom so many times in the book, but I have to believe selfish people like that will get their own in the end. Dawn’s only saving grace is Luke, the single dad working at the Palm’s. He truly sees the beauty that is Dawn but because of the age difference and raising a son on his own, he treads lightly.
The story of Dawn is enlightening and just makes you think about why we meet the people we meet and how their interaction with you opens your eyes to many different things. It’s a coming of age for an old soul living life in a your person’s body but also teaches you life lessons in the end.
Read
January 29, 2016Shea blew into their town on a stormy day and changed everything. Till that day Dawn had been happily crushing on her long time best friend Zeke and avoiding the popular kids from her high school. She and Zeke were outcasts together and their mutual dislike for the popular kids kept their friendship strong. Then Shea appeared and stirred up some drama, some trouble and some very confusing feelings for them both. Could their friendship survive the twists that Shea caused?
This was a very interesting and fun to read coming of age story. Dawn is 18, but very old fashioned in her beliefs on being social, relationships and sex. I thought it was a refreshing break to read about a young woman that values her virginity. For some reason I was under the impression that this was a paranormal romance, but it wasn’t. That didn’t keep me from enjoying the hell out of Dawn’s story. The upset that Shea caused was annoying at times, tragic at others, but the end was a shock that had me reeling.
I give In the wind 4 stars. This book is very entertaining. You won’t regret reading it!
This was a very interesting and fun to read coming of age story. Dawn is 18, but very old fashioned in her beliefs on being social, relationships and sex. I thought it was a refreshing break to read about a young woman that values her virginity. For some reason I was under the impression that this was a paranormal romance, but it wasn’t. That didn’t keep me from enjoying the hell out of Dawn’s story. The upset that Shea caused was annoying at times, tragic at others, but the end was a shock that had me reeling.
I give In the wind 4 stars. This book is very entertaining. You won’t regret reading it!
January 22, 2016
In the Wind by Lilliana Anderson
ARC given in exchange for an honest review.
I have only read one other book by Lilliana and it made me bawl. This one did too. I found myself relating so much to Dawn and her feelings at 18. She really spoke to me. I kind of understood where she was coming from in regards to being old fashioned in her way of finding love. I loved Shea in the beginning but by the end I hated her and what she stood for. She seemed completely crazy at times! I hated Zeke from the beginning! He gave me a really bad vibe. He was almost selfish in the way he played on Dawn’s feelings and got off kind of easy at the end. Overall I loved this book, it tells the story of an 18 year old girl struggling with the emotions that being a teenager brings. There was love and lust with a tinge of sadness at times. I was crying at the end but happily. I didn’t see this book ending how it did and I certainly hoped for me. A truly wonderful read. 5 stars
ARC given in exchange for an honest review.
I have only read one other book by Lilliana and it made me bawl. This one did too. I found myself relating so much to Dawn and her feelings at 18. She really spoke to me. I kind of understood where she was coming from in regards to being old fashioned in her way of finding love. I loved Shea in the beginning but by the end I hated her and what she stood for. She seemed completely crazy at times! I hated Zeke from the beginning! He gave me a really bad vibe. He was almost selfish in the way he played on Dawn’s feelings and got off kind of easy at the end. Overall I loved this book, it tells the story of an 18 year old girl struggling with the emotions that being a teenager brings. There was love and lust with a tinge of sadness at times. I was crying at the end but happily. I didn’t see this book ending how it did and I certainly hoped for me. A truly wonderful read. 5 stars
January 13, 2016
I really,really loved this book. It reminded me of when you are with your friends and you are all just a bunch of unique people not as shaped by the world you live in,like what happens when you grow up. But as for these characters they do have to change and adapt and go on an incredible journey. This book drew me in and kept me on my toes with a few things i never saw coming. I loved the spirit of Shea but Dawn was a character i also connected well with. I enjoy reading these books that hit you with memories of your own life and how you acted at that age the characters are and all those new emotions you felt for the first time and how they shape you. In The Wind is a book about characters on a journey to become who they will be as they grow up and for me i loved reminiscing after reading about these characters and their emotional journey.Also i love the cover and the wildness it represents of Shea.
January 12, 2016
First I want to thank you Lilliana for giving me the opportunity to read this amazing story. I went through all the emotions with this book. My eyes clouded so many times. I also enjoyed the heated scenes. I feel like I can't say much because I don't want to spoil it for anyone else. This book is a must read. I didn't expect what happened with Zeke and Dawn. I loved the twist with Luke. Devastated with how it ended with Shea's. I feel frustrated that I can't say what I want to say for fear of giving to much away. Like always Lilliana I loved your book and it's one I wouldn't mind reading again. Great read. To all of Lilliana's fans you have to read this book, totally worth it. Great work as always!!!!
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