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Amanda #2
Finding Amanda
Chef and popular blogger Amanda Johnson hopes publishing her memoir will provide healing and justice. Her estranged husband, contractor and veteran soldier Mark Johnson, tries to talk her out of it, fearing the psychiatrist who seduced her when she was a teen might return to silence her.
But Amanda doesn’t need advice, certainly not from her judgmental soon-to-be ex-husband. Her overconfidence makes her vulnerable when she travels out of town and runs into the abuser from her past. A kind stranger comes to her rescue and offers her protection.
Now Mark must safeguard his wife both from the fiend who threatens her life and from the stranger who threatens their marriage.
But Amanda doesn’t need advice, certainly not from her judgmental soon-to-be ex-husband. Her overconfidence makes her vulnerable when she travels out of town and runs into the abuser from her past. A kind stranger comes to her rescue and offers her protection.
Now Mark must safeguard his wife both from the fiend who threatens her life and from the stranger who threatens their marriage.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2015
314 people are currently reading
708 people want to read
About the author
Robin Patchen
73 books1,024 followersRobin Patchen is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of Christian romantic suspense. She grew up in a small town in New Hampshire, the setting of her Nutfield Saga books, and then headed to Boston to earn a journalism degree. After college, working in marketing and public relations, she discovered how much she loathed the nine-to-five ball-and-chain. After relocating to the Southwest, she started writing her first novel while she homeschooled her three children. The novel was dreadful, but her passion for storytelling didn’t wane. Thankfully, as her children grew, so did her writing ability. Now that her kids are adults, she has more time to play with the lives of fictional heroes and heroines, wreaking havoc and working magic to give her characters happy endings. When she’s not writing, she’s editing or reading, proving most of her life revolves around the twenty-six letters of the alphabet. Visit https://robinpatchen.com/subscribe to receive a free book and stay informed about Robin’s latest projects.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
September 10, 2019
Mystery and Marriage in Peril/Spoilers may be below
I was liking this book. The writing was okay, no major goods but the heroine started to annoy me. She was so cold to her husband and yes they had been separated for a month and she wanted a divorce. , but he really seemed to love her. And he did actually. And she went to a conference, met a man she liked that saved her from the evil pedophile in her past and she was intrigued by him. I got annoyed at the site took it was taking. In the meantime, she is trying to publish a memoir about the pedophile psychiatrist who had abused her and he was after her. Then it really got bad for me because the ex model girlfriend of his turned up at the apartment across from his to reconcile because his mother told her about his divorce. And then it was revealed that before he was married but engaged to the heroine who was out of town, he had a one night stand with her. He never told his wife. And of course he was drunk, doesn't remember it, she was just there and hot, God forgave him and the normal excuses, excuses, excuses. It was ten years prior but his Mom knew and was going to tell the H who she didn't ever like, so he confessed it to her. At first I thought he just did it but it was in the past but it really upset the heroine and she reacted badly. I am not going to lie, I understood her feelings because the same thing happened to me and I didn't care when it happened, all I cared about was that this man I loved had lied to me for many years and I totally lost both faith and trust in him and so did she. Everyone is like it was a long time ago, just forgive him like Jesus would. And the husband decides just to let her divorce him because there was a scripture that told him to just let the unbeliever go. And then he was at peace. Honestly this was just an unnecessary plotline that didn't need to be in there. And it just turned me off the story. The heroine does stupid stuff and gets kidnapped. And the hero goes after her. Not going to say anymore but I did finish it and it was okay. I just didn't like parts of it very much. The rating is based on my own personal crazy opinion so please no haters. I may raise it to three stars after I reflect on it and not get bogged down by personal baggage. Others really enjoyed it hit but I hated the OW and OM drama. The heroine annoyed me too. I liked the writing style and I may read another book by this author. There is a prequel I didn't read. They are both free in KU.
I was liking this book. The writing was okay, no major goods but the heroine started to annoy me. She was so cold to her husband and yes they had been separated for a month and she wanted a divorce. , but he really seemed to love her. And he did actually. And she went to a conference, met a man she liked that saved her from the evil pedophile in her past and she was intrigued by him. I got annoyed at the site took it was taking. In the meantime, she is trying to publish a memoir about the pedophile psychiatrist who had abused her and he was after her. Then it really got bad for me because the ex model girlfriend of his turned up at the apartment across from his to reconcile because his mother told her about his divorce. And then it was revealed that before he was married but engaged to the heroine who was out of town, he had a one night stand with her. He never told his wife. And of course he was drunk, doesn't remember it, she was just there and hot, God forgave him and the normal excuses, excuses, excuses. It was ten years prior but his Mom knew and was going to tell the H who she didn't ever like, so he confessed it to her. At first I thought he just did it but it was in the past but it really upset the heroine and she reacted badly. I am not going to lie, I understood her feelings because the same thing happened to me and I didn't care when it happened, all I cared about was that this man I loved had lied to me for many years and I totally lost both faith and trust in him and so did she. Everyone is like it was a long time ago, just forgive him like Jesus would. And the husband decides just to let her divorce him because there was a scripture that told him to just let the unbeliever go. And then he was at peace. Honestly this was just an unnecessary plotline that didn't need to be in there. And it just turned me off the story. The heroine does stupid stuff and gets kidnapped. And the hero goes after her. Not going to say anymore but I did finish it and it was okay. I just didn't like parts of it very much. The rating is based on my own personal crazy opinion so please no haters. I may raise it to three stars after I reflect on it and not get bogged down by personal baggage. Others really enjoyed it hit but I hated the OW and OM drama. The heroine annoyed me too. I liked the writing style and I may read another book by this author. There is a prequel I didn't read. They are both free in KU.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2016
This book totally took me by surprise, I won it as part of the ACFW book club and was sent to me by the author. This was a new author to me and the book like I said took me by surprise. I had no idea what to expect and was pleasantly surprised. The book tackles a difficult subject, but it was realistic, , the characters were likeable, it was suspenseful and stressful, you just wanted to shake the main character Amanda, and make her see her self worth and that she had/has a gem of a husband. I did find her so frustrating sometimes and loved the husbands loyalty to her. It was neat to see the man be the Christian character for a change so that was refreshing to see. This book was hard to put down and I read it every chance I got. This book has villains, victims, romance, suspense and is set in a contemporary setting. I was also pleasantly surprised that it was based in Massachusetts which is where I currently live, doubling the bonus that I knew the towns and areas that the book talked about. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to more books by this author.
July 26, 2019
Wow - what an intense ride! It's been awhile since I've read a book that was THIS hard to put down and that made me lose my focus doing other things because I was dying to know what was happening in this book! This book is the 2nd in the Amanda series. The first book, Chasing Amanda, is a short story about how Amanda and Mark met and fell in love. This book picks up 10 years later. He's back from the war, they've gotten married and had a couple of kids, but they both have secrets stewing under the surface that threaten to tear them apart. As Amanda becomes more and more certain of her path away from Mark's, she finds herself in danger as she confronts her past in the worst way possible.
This book was so emotionally intense. I was frantically "turning pages" (on my kindle, so it wasn't literal) to see how things would turn out. This book had lots of action and suspense. There was definitely some romance as each of them tried to win the other back at various times, but because they were married, the romance wasn't gushy like romantic suspense novels often are. I thought this had just the right mix of everything. I really had a very difficult time putting this one down when it was time to go to bed or get back to work. I would strongly recommend to lovers of romantic suspense, heavy on the suspense!
One note of warning - Amanda's past deals with some sexual abuse and feelings of guilt that resulted from that. While there is not GREAT detail in it, there are some scenes when she is remembering that may be a trigger for victims of similar crimes.
This book was so emotionally intense. I was frantically "turning pages" (on my kindle, so it wasn't literal) to see how things would turn out. This book had lots of action and suspense. There was definitely some romance as each of them tried to win the other back at various times, but because they were married, the romance wasn't gushy like romantic suspense novels often are. I thought this had just the right mix of everything. I really had a very difficult time putting this one down when it was time to go to bed or get back to work. I would strongly recommend to lovers of romantic suspense, heavy on the suspense!
One note of warning - Amanda's past deals with some sexual abuse and feelings of guilt that resulted from that. While there is not GREAT detail in it, there are some scenes when she is remembering that may be a trigger for victims of similar crimes.
April 16, 2015
Finding Amanda tackles a tough subject, survival of an abusive situation and the life-long ramifications the survivor, and her family, must battle. But in typical Robin Patchen style, it's wrapped in a story full of intriguing characters and plot twists that will keep the reader flipping pages.
Amanda Johnson is plagued by the past and it's interfering with her life. She thinks she can make it on her own, writing her cooking blog, teaching cooking classes, and raising her two little girls. But pressures from the past are still there. Writing her memoir seems like the perfect solution to expose her abuser and finally release the past. Her so-to-be-ex-husband doesn't agree.
Mark Johnson wants nothing else but to save his marriage. He didn't fight overseas to come home and lose the most important battle of his life. But how can he cope with his wife's past if she won't talk, or listen, to him? And when she turns to someone else for comfort, can he keep his mind on the goal?
No spoiler here, but fasten your seat belt for a thrilling ending!
Amanda Johnson is plagued by the past and it's interfering with her life. She thinks she can make it on her own, writing her cooking blog, teaching cooking classes, and raising her two little girls. But pressures from the past are still there. Writing her memoir seems like the perfect solution to expose her abuser and finally release the past. Her so-to-be-ex-husband doesn't agree.
Mark Johnson wants nothing else but to save his marriage. He didn't fight overseas to come home and lose the most important battle of his life. But how can he cope with his wife's past if she won't talk, or listen, to him? And when she turns to someone else for comfort, can he keep his mind on the goal?
No spoiler here, but fasten your seat belt for a thrilling ending!
September 10, 2019
Amanda was no saint, but Mark was a douche. Not a fan of manipulation where the cheated on spouse ha to apologise to the cheater and beg him back, come again. Also, not into people who do not fight for the apparent love of their lives, as he told Amanda he was not going to grovel for her! A real keeper!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2023
In general I enjoyed the book but both Amanda and Mark relationship drove me crazy. I just wanted to shake them and have them talk about their problems. But the suspense was excellent and loved the ending! Still was a 4 star read for me. I don’t think I will continue reading the series though but would recommend the book!!!
March 5, 2018
I’m not sure that this technically qualifies as a psychological thriller, but it definitely had that feel about it. It also deals with the topic of sexual abuse (in the past), so it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but it had me on the edge of my seat from the first page, even when the danger was only a shadow hanging over the characters' heads.
But it’s not just a story of suspense; it's also one of reconciliation. Although it’s been twelve years since a nineteen year old Amanda walked away from the psychiatrist who seduced her, it’s only been two years since her husband Mark learned of the abuse. In those two years, Amanda has poured everything into writing her memoir and their marriage has slowly fallen apart. Mark is struggling to process his anger towards Amanda's abuser, which has affected both their physical intimacy and their communication, and Amanda mistakenly interprets this as rejection. Mark has recently become a Christian; Amanda rejects Christianity. Mark believes publishing her story will put her in danger; Amanda believes it's the only way to move on. And if she has to move on without Mark, she will.
I was alternately holding my breath, waiting for the axe to fall on Amanda, and silently urging Mark on as he tried to save his marriage and keep Amanda safe. Definitely an engaging read, but perhaps in the daytime rather than just before bed!
But it’s not just a story of suspense; it's also one of reconciliation. Although it’s been twelve years since a nineteen year old Amanda walked away from the psychiatrist who seduced her, it’s only been two years since her husband Mark learned of the abuse. In those two years, Amanda has poured everything into writing her memoir and their marriage has slowly fallen apart. Mark is struggling to process his anger towards Amanda's abuser, which has affected both their physical intimacy and their communication, and Amanda mistakenly interprets this as rejection. Mark has recently become a Christian; Amanda rejects Christianity. Mark believes publishing her story will put her in danger; Amanda believes it's the only way to move on. And if she has to move on without Mark, she will.
I was alternately holding my breath, waiting for the axe to fall on Amanda, and silently urging Mark on as he tried to save his marriage and keep Amanda safe. Definitely an engaging read, but perhaps in the daytime rather than just before bed!
April 6, 2016
Mark’s friends “Chris and Jamie were so wise and insightful, always unruffled. Mark attributed it to their religion,” and even joined their church. But it wasn’t enough to stop his marriage falling apart. While he tries to keep his wife and child safe, and struggles with the anger he feels toward his wife's former abuser, she sees every separation as rejection, every request as yet another attempt to control her, and every disagreement as the end. So now Mark lives in a dingy apartment, separated from everyone he loves.
There’s a strong thread of wise, natural faith in this novel, with plenty to share with the reader. Different points of view become very real, as does the growing danger threatening Amanda. Meanwhile there’s a growing possibility of hope and redemption.
Finding Amanda is a tough read with its depiction of abuse’s aftermath, but it’s an honest one filled with honest wisdom for the wounded and those who love them.
Disclosure: I bought this one in a set with another book I was looking for.
There’s a strong thread of wise, natural faith in this novel, with plenty to share with the reader. Different points of view become very real, as does the growing danger threatening Amanda. Meanwhile there’s a growing possibility of hope and redemption.
Finding Amanda is a tough read with its depiction of abuse’s aftermath, but it’s an honest one filled with honest wisdom for the wounded and those who love them.
Disclosure: I bought this one in a set with another book I was looking for.
March 27, 2018
Exactly zero of the characters in this book are likable. The husband is cocky and domineering, the wife is a stereotypical damsel in distress, and every other character is one-dimensional as well. The plot was boring and predictable, and the religious propaganda thrown in was enough to make my eyes roll completely into the back of my head. Read this book only if you don’t care about the 8 hours of your life you’ll never get back.
September 29, 2018
This book is a page-turner. I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning to finish it. Christian suspense is one of my favorite genres and this book did not disappoint. Many might be turned off by the subject of sexual abuse, but there are no graphic details in this book. Patchen knows how to use language to capture the reader and put her right in the story. I don't want to go over the plot but I will say her three-dimensional characters are hard to resist. I also didn't guess the ending until late in the novel. I am usually able to figure out the "bad" guy earlier in a novel. I highly recommend this book.
May 12, 2015
A Tough Heroine, Wounded Hero, and Creepy Villain...
...this book has it all. Amanda Johnson survived the manipulation of a much older man when she was young, but not without scars. When her husband learns of her past, he deals with the pain in a way that Amanda can't understand. Even as Amanda pushes Mark away she comes face to face with the evil that has haunted her all these years. Only this time, his desires might prove deadly.
Besides creeping the snot out of me, Robin Patchen masterfully portrays the tension between two people who love each other, but must find their own way to healing. The differences between how men and women deal with trauma were expertly displayed. Throw in a few surprises and realistic setting and you have a wonderfully engrossing story.
You'll be sorry if you miss this one.
...this book has it all. Amanda Johnson survived the manipulation of a much older man when she was young, but not without scars. When her husband learns of her past, he deals with the pain in a way that Amanda can't understand. Even as Amanda pushes Mark away she comes face to face with the evil that has haunted her all these years. Only this time, his desires might prove deadly.
Besides creeping the snot out of me, Robin Patchen masterfully portrays the tension between two people who love each other, but must find their own way to healing. The differences between how men and women deal with trauma were expertly displayed. Throw in a few surprises and realistic setting and you have a wonderfully engrossing story.
You'll be sorry if you miss this one.
October 26, 2016
Finding Amanda was a finalist in the Mystery/Suspense/Thriller category this year at ACFW and an indie novel. Congratulations!
I like to read the books that final in the category I write.
For me personally, this did not feel like a suspense novel. It felt like it was more a character driven story about a couple and their dissolving marriage with a few suspense elements. For me, I want to feel like the heroine's life is in consistent danger and I didn't really worry over Amanda's life.
The ending did rise to what I love about suspense novels though. If that were carried through out the book this would easily have been five stars for me.
Robin is an engaging writer. If you like more character driven suspense with some more mild suspense elements then I think you'd really enjoy Robin's book.
I like to read the books that final in the category I write.
For me personally, this did not feel like a suspense novel. It felt like it was more a character driven story about a couple and their dissolving marriage with a few suspense elements. For me, I want to feel like the heroine's life is in consistent danger and I didn't really worry over Amanda's life.
The ending did rise to what I love about suspense novels though. If that were carried through out the book this would easily have been five stars for me.
Robin is an engaging writer. If you like more character driven suspense with some more mild suspense elements then I think you'd really enjoy Robin's book.
May 26, 2015
Robin Patchen is one of my new favorite authors. This book was amazing. The tension throughout was handled masterfully. Not so thick that you couldn’t find the characters in all their wonderful depth, but not so light that it read like a straightforward romance or women’s fiction. It’s a great example of letting the story be the story in all its glory. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and absolutely look forward to Patchen’s next offering.
May 10, 2015
In FINDING AMANDA, Author Robin Patchen weaves a story of hurt, deceit, obsession, and love. Abused as a teenager, a grown up Amanda wants a little justice. When her husband can’t or won’t understand, she wants a divorce. The conspiracy that follows will have you turning the pages long past your bed time.
July 24, 2015
I enjoyed reading Finding Amanda by author Robin Patchen. From page one I was hooked by this. The characters were likeable, the writing interesting. A five star book. Worth the time and look forward to more from this promising author in the future.
May 1, 2015
A thrilling ride where the past stalks the present on a haunting journey toward the future. Patchen's characters are real, raw, and intriguing. Get ready to meet your new favorite author.
March 17, 2025
A powerful story with valuable lessons for married couples. Although I struggled through parts of the book because of my beliefs regarding divorce, I was hooked by the never say die attitude of Mark concerning his marriage. The saddest part was the number that the psychiatrist had done on Amanda when she was a young teen. Because of him, she was unwilling to seek counselling to try to save their marriage. She had tossed her faith out the window years ago due to the circumstances in her life. She really had nowhere to turn for answers and guidance other than one friend who she was pushing away. The tension at times was palpable as Mark sought every opportunity to win her back and Amanda kept pressing harder for a divorce. I suppose a lingering question was how Mark became the man that he was after growing up with a bitter, controlling, demanding mother. Except for the psychiatrist, she was the least likable character in the book. My favorites were the two young daughters. Their special bond with both Mark and Amanda was endearing. I appreciated the way that Mark listened to the voice of his heavenly father and the wise counsel of his friend Chris. Chris helped to keep him grounded when it seemed the ground under his feet was giving way. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author. I received a copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
April 9, 2019
Heart pounding romantic suspense
Oh my gosh, I couldn't get enough. I had so much to do today but I made the mistake of starting Ms. Patchen 's book and never moved from my chair all day. I did read the prequel Chasing Amanda, that lets us in on the story of how Mark and Amanda met but it isn't necessary to get full enjoyment from this book.
Amanda has lived through some very tramatic things when she was a teenager that have came back to haunt her future, destroying her marriage in the process. Mark is an ex-marine with an amazing gift that saved lives when he was in Afghanistan fighting. As we feel Mark's pain as he watches his marriage fall apart we also see a man that will do anything to save his wife's life and the love of his life.
This book just grabs you there is so much happening you can't put it down. I loved Mark and Amanda, and couldn't wait to see where Ms. Patchen was going to take us to see if Amanda and her babies were going to be safe against the horror of the past and if their marriage could possibly survive.
Give this book from Ms. Patchen a try, I have not been disappointed in any of her books, she is on my favorite authors list as I know I am in for a good clean suspense.
Oh my gosh, I couldn't get enough. I had so much to do today but I made the mistake of starting Ms. Patchen 's book and never moved from my chair all day. I did read the prequel Chasing Amanda, that lets us in on the story of how Mark and Amanda met but it isn't necessary to get full enjoyment from this book.
Amanda has lived through some very tramatic things when she was a teenager that have came back to haunt her future, destroying her marriage in the process. Mark is an ex-marine with an amazing gift that saved lives when he was in Afghanistan fighting. As we feel Mark's pain as he watches his marriage fall apart we also see a man that will do anything to save his wife's life and the love of his life.
This book just grabs you there is so much happening you can't put it down. I loved Mark and Amanda, and couldn't wait to see where Ms. Patchen was going to take us to see if Amanda and her babies were going to be safe against the horror of the past and if their marriage could possibly survive.
Give this book from Ms. Patchen a try, I have not been disappointed in any of her books, she is on my favorite authors list as I know I am in for a good clean suspense.
July 6, 2019
Love Lies & Trust
After almost a decade of marriage to the love of his life, Mark could hardly believe it when his wife kicked him out of their beautiful home. They had bought an old, run down farm house which Mark remolded to be a great house for Amanda and their 2 sweet little girls. Not understanding, Mark rented an older apartment because he was so sure he could win his wife back. It wasn’t going well at all.
In the meanwhile, Amanda believes that Mark is angry with her because of her Memoir about her horrible psychiatrist she had as a teenager. She thinks that he believes that she was responsible for it. Of course, Mark is concerned about her safety if the psychiatrist learns about it. Amanda is determined to publish it to help save other young girls. She never even used his name in the book. While in New York this Gabriel Shepherd shows up and confronts her. Quickly she got the eye of her friend who has a new man with her. They save her this time. Mark is livid when he finds out.
From that point until the end, it’s so difficult to put the story down until the last word! A must read suspense story! Robin Patchen is one of my favorite authors.
After almost a decade of marriage to the love of his life, Mark could hardly believe it when his wife kicked him out of their beautiful home. They had bought an old, run down farm house which Mark remolded to be a great house for Amanda and their 2 sweet little girls. Not understanding, Mark rented an older apartment because he was so sure he could win his wife back. It wasn’t going well at all.
In the meanwhile, Amanda believes that Mark is angry with her because of her Memoir about her horrible psychiatrist she had as a teenager. She thinks that he believes that she was responsible for it. Of course, Mark is concerned about her safety if the psychiatrist learns about it. Amanda is determined to publish it to help save other young girls. She never even used his name in the book. While in New York this Gabriel Shepherd shows up and confronts her. Quickly she got the eye of her friend who has a new man with her. They save her this time. Mark is livid when he finds out.
From that point until the end, it’s so difficult to put the story down until the last word! A must read suspense story! Robin Patchen is one of my favorite authors.
October 26, 2020
This book was packed full of building suspense, and two people who loved each other but due to emotional trauma and no proper communication/reactions, is struggling with a broken marriage.
I connected a bit more to Mark, I think mainly because he was the Christian and fighting for the marriage, where Amanda just wanted to give up. As the story develops, you understand both’s brokenness more and why they do/did/reacted the way they did.
I would definitely only recommend this story to adult readers. The emotional trauma Amanda had to deal with was grave and there were two scenes which was a bit too descriptive which younger readers and sensitive readers might find disturbing. I could have done without the detail which is why I rated it 3 instead of 4. I think the author added this detail to try and portray just what Amanda went through, but I would have preferred a flash back with just what happened instead of being there with Amanda while it happened. The second scene was a bit more in this line and more manageable to read.
The build up of the suspense was on a slower pace with a speedy ending and I did guess the twist at the end.
This psychological thriller was very good and made me think what manipulative people is capable of.
I connected a bit more to Mark, I think mainly because he was the Christian and fighting for the marriage, where Amanda just wanted to give up. As the story develops, you understand both’s brokenness more and why they do/did/reacted the way they did.
I would definitely only recommend this story to adult readers. The emotional trauma Amanda had to deal with was grave and there were two scenes which was a bit too descriptive which younger readers and sensitive readers might find disturbing. I could have done without the detail which is why I rated it 3 instead of 4. I think the author added this detail to try and portray just what Amanda went through, but I would have preferred a flash back with just what happened instead of being there with Amanda while it happened. The second scene was a bit more in this line and more manageable to read.
The build up of the suspense was on a slower pace with a speedy ending and I did guess the twist at the end.
This psychological thriller was very good and made me think what manipulative people is capable of.
August 24, 2023
Amanda was involved in a car accident when she was 15. Her best friend's entire family was killed. Amanda was the only one who survived. She's struggling so her parents have her see a counselor. The counselor abuses her from ages 15 - 18. It's 10 years later and Amanda is happily married with 2 girls. She feels it's time to write her memoir. Her husband, Mark, had no idea Amanda had been abused. No one did. She finally tells her parents and brothers.
As Amanda deals with the memories, she pushes Mark away. She feels that he blames her for what happened. Mark is devastated. When the psychologist "runs into" Amanda at a conference, She is the scared 18 year old again. A couple she just met happens to be walking by and she leaves with them. Alan makes sure that she gets to her room safely.
But, the Alan starts hanging around Amanda as well. Mark is concerned that the psychiatrist is going to harm Amanda. He's also jealous of Amanda seeing another man even if she says it's just friends.
This is a hard book to read. The abuse that Amanda went through is hard to read. But, you find yourself reading more because you have to understand what is going on. So much healing on the part of Amanda.
As Amanda deals with the memories, she pushes Mark away. She feels that he blames her for what happened. Mark is devastated. When the psychologist "runs into" Amanda at a conference, She is the scared 18 year old again. A couple she just met happens to be walking by and she leaves with them. Alan makes sure that she gets to her room safely.
But, the Alan starts hanging around Amanda as well. Mark is concerned that the psychiatrist is going to harm Amanda. He's also jealous of Amanda seeing another man even if she says it's just friends.
This is a hard book to read. The abuse that Amanda went through is hard to read. But, you find yourself reading more because you have to understand what is going on. So much healing on the part of Amanda.
March 19, 2020
So very good, mystery, suspense and drama rolled into one. Amanda decides she knows what is best and relies on her own judgment. While her estranged husband Mark is worried for her safety, but since she won’t listen, he tries to assist from afar. Several good themes running through their story including: wondering if there is a God, being angry at God, marriage struggles, memories of sexual abuse by a trusted adult, and who to trust. I loved the contrast between Amanda wondering if there is a God and Mark who has a relationship with God but bring angry at God and seeing how they each work through difficulty and who they turn to. And I loved the suspense angle of wondering about Amanda’s safety and trying to figure out who to trust and who not to trust.
Some of my favorite quotes
-Don’t be so quick to throw away your husband. Marriage is hard, no doubt. But regardless of what you say, he loves you.
-Mark massaged his temple. How was his relationship with God? He was angry with God
-there even was a God which, after everything she’d been through, she highly doubted.
Some of my favorite quotes
-Don’t be so quick to throw away your husband. Marriage is hard, no doubt. But regardless of what you say, he loves you.
-Mark massaged his temple. How was his relationship with God? He was angry with God
-there even was a God which, after everything she’d been through, she highly doubted.
May 31, 2025
I was very much into thr story until you find out a huge bombshell.
From the very first moment Mark met Amanda, he devoted his life to protecting her and taking care of her. And you mean to tell me he was so upset back during their engagement that she didnt go to Christmas at his stupid mom's house (who is a VILE person in her own rught), he cheats with his ex-girlfriend?
At least Amanda believed she was done with her marriage when she started liking Alan, even if she probably should have waited. And her trauma was pretty clear. She annoyed me, but I was willing to chalk that up to being groomed as a teenager by a man with a lot of power over her.
I couldn't finish this once I found out what Mark did. It literally made me sick to my stomach. And the fact that he hid it for ten years? What a gross, gross thing. I dont want to read about egregious infidelity. I have no idea how the book ends and I dont even care about the evil psychiatrist anymore. I was excited to read this to find out what happens but Im just disgusted.
From the very first moment Mark met Amanda, he devoted his life to protecting her and taking care of her. And you mean to tell me he was so upset back during their engagement that she didnt go to Christmas at his stupid mom's house (who is a VILE person in her own rught), he cheats with his ex-girlfriend?
At least Amanda believed she was done with her marriage when she started liking Alan, even if she probably should have waited. And her trauma was pretty clear. She annoyed me, but I was willing to chalk that up to being groomed as a teenager by a man with a lot of power over her.
I couldn't finish this once I found out what Mark did. It literally made me sick to my stomach. And the fact that he hid it for ten years? What a gross, gross thing. I dont want to read about egregious infidelity. I have no idea how the book ends and I dont even care about the evil psychiatrist anymore. I was excited to read this to find out what happens but Im just disgusted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2025
At first, this seemed like a tense, creepy tale I might enjoy. Yet, the deeper into the story I got, the less I liked it. Sexual abuse of a child—rape of a child!—was right on the page. Blech! The emotional abuse of a spouse was horrible and was not clearly explained or resolved.
I’m not sure who I was supposed to root for: the obsessive, controlling, estranged husband; the wife who let the rape in her teens destroy her personality and marriage; or the stalker who tried to have an affair with her. They were all psycho in their own ways. I felt so sorry for the kids. They didn’t have a choice in who was raising them, and I can’t imagine they’d learn about healthy relationships in that household. The supposedly Christian character was obsessed with tracking down his wife’s abuser/stalker and killing him—not a very Christian thing to pursue.
I won’t be trying another Patchen book. Totally not my style.
Content: profanity, marital affairs, rape of a child by a psychiatrist, child nudity, emotional abuse of a spouse, expletive
I’m not sure who I was supposed to root for: the obsessive, controlling, estranged husband; the wife who let the rape in her teens destroy her personality and marriage; or the stalker who tried to have an affair with her. They were all psycho in their own ways. I felt so sorry for the kids. They didn’t have a choice in who was raising them, and I can’t imagine they’d learn about healthy relationships in that household. The supposedly Christian character was obsessed with tracking down his wife’s abuser/stalker and killing him—not a very Christian thing to pursue.
I won’t be trying another Patchen book. Totally not my style.
Content: profanity, marital affairs, rape of a child by a psychiatrist, child nudity, emotional abuse of a spouse, expletive
September 23, 2023
Letting go of the past and staying out of danger…
Robin Patchen is definitely one of my favorite authors. The many books of hers that I have read always have depth of character, good plots, some mystery and suspense and focuses on personal development.
Amanda misreads her husband’s feelings and intentions putting her once ideal marriage on the line. Mark, her veteran husband, has good instincts when it comes to sensing danger and is committed to protecting Amanda and his family despite Amanda’s insistence that she would not be harmed by the psychiatrist who manipulated her as a teenager. Her desire to anonymously publish her memoir evokes the resurgence of the very psychopath that she ran away from twelve years ago. Mark is determined to connect the dots and discover how this madman learned about the manuscript in order keep Amanda safe while doing his best to save his marriage.
The story held my interest throughout. It is well-written and thought provoking.
Robin Patchen is definitely one of my favorite authors. The many books of hers that I have read always have depth of character, good plots, some mystery and suspense and focuses on personal development.
Amanda misreads her husband’s feelings and intentions putting her once ideal marriage on the line. Mark, her veteran husband, has good instincts when it comes to sensing danger and is committed to protecting Amanda and his family despite Amanda’s insistence that she would not be harmed by the psychiatrist who manipulated her as a teenager. Her desire to anonymously publish her memoir evokes the resurgence of the very psychopath that she ran away from twelve years ago. Mark is determined to connect the dots and discover how this madman learned about the manuscript in order keep Amanda safe while doing his best to save his marriage.
The story held my interest throughout. It is well-written and thought provoking.
March 9, 2018
Amanda had no foundation in the word of God I mean He had failed her when she needed Him most so why should she believe . Mark had a strong foundation but hadn't really done anything to strengthen his relationship. Amanda has a past that is chasing after her and because she has't given herself or her yoke to God she is being drowned in fear, guilt, anger and so may other crippling emotions. When Mark finally turns their relationship over to God will it be soon enough to save her, to save them?
A great story based on the word about being unequally yoked. While this isn't your standard spiritual read it is based on good word and this couple learn a hard lesson about seeking wise counsel and not being emotionally available to others when you are married. There is suspense and intrigue to go along with it and a great story to round it out. Loved it and this author.
A great story based on the word about being unequally yoked. While this isn't your standard spiritual read it is based on good word and this couple learn a hard lesson about seeking wise counsel and not being emotionally available to others when you are married. There is suspense and intrigue to go along with it and a great story to round it out. Loved it and this author.
April 7, 2018
My first time for this author, I listened on Audible. The story revolves around a husband and wife whose marriage is in danger. The wife is determined to publish a book revealing how a predatory psychiatrist took advantage of her sexually for two years in her teens. She finally cut off communication with him and never saw him again until twelve years later when he finds her at a writers conference.
Her refusal to see him as dangerous is a constant source of contention between her and her husband, who is determined to protect her. I found her "waffling" particularly annoying and frustrating, though I can well imagine that sort of behavior is common in such circumstances. The characters become real, and questions keep the pages turning to very end. Often made me suspicious of strangers and my surroundings with a "creepy" feeling, which is testimony to how well-written the story is.
Her refusal to see him as dangerous is a constant source of contention between her and her husband, who is determined to protect her. I found her "waffling" particularly annoying and frustrating, though I can well imagine that sort of behavior is common in such circumstances. The characters become real, and questions keep the pages turning to very end. Often made me suspicious of strangers and my surroundings with a "creepy" feeling, which is testimony to how well-written the story is.
August 4, 2019
Story about perserverance and forgiveness
In the prequel, Mark rescued Amanda from a stalker then is deployed to Afaghnastan. This story begins years later, after Mark and Amanda have been married and had 2 children. During the course of their marriage, Amanda reveals she was abused as a teen by her psychatrist. Now she and Mark are on the verge of divorce.
Much of their problem lies with their inability to communicate effectively. They both have misconceptions about each other and Amanda, especially, has a hard time believing in and forgiving her husband.
There were some intense moments in this story and times I wanted to shake some sense into Amanda. Overall I was satisfied with the conclusion. . .and resolution of their conflict.
In the prequel, Mark rescued Amanda from a stalker then is deployed to Afaghnastan. This story begins years later, after Mark and Amanda have been married and had 2 children. During the course of their marriage, Amanda reveals she was abused as a teen by her psychatrist. Now she and Mark are on the verge of divorce.
Much of their problem lies with their inability to communicate effectively. They both have misconceptions about each other and Amanda, especially, has a hard time believing in and forgiving her husband.
There were some intense moments in this story and times I wanted to shake some sense into Amanda. Overall I was satisfied with the conclusion. . .and resolution of their conflict.
August 17, 2021
OH WOW! OH WOW!! OH WOW!!!
Finding Amanda is an intense suspenseful thriller that tells the story of Amanda and Mark. Where Chasing Amanda covers the time period before Mark is deployed to Afghanistan, Finding Amanda picks up several years later. Amanda is determined to publish an explosive memoir which creates a chasm in their already rocky marriage.
Robin Patchen is masterful in capturing a reader's interest and building the suspense to fever pitch. She throws in some plot twists (that I never saw coming!) and hurls the reader toward a surprising resolution.
With excellent writing skills, great character building, and a strong storyline, this author has provided an inspirational romantic suspense worthy of 5 star accolades!
Finding Amanda is an intense suspenseful thriller that tells the story of Amanda and Mark. Where Chasing Amanda covers the time period before Mark is deployed to Afghanistan, Finding Amanda picks up several years later. Amanda is determined to publish an explosive memoir which creates a chasm in their already rocky marriage.
Robin Patchen is masterful in capturing a reader's interest and building the suspense to fever pitch. She throws in some plot twists (that I never saw coming!) and hurls the reader toward a surprising resolution.
With excellent writing skills, great character building, and a strong storyline, this author has provided an inspirational romantic suspense worthy of 5 star accolades!
March 23, 2018
I’ve been sitting on this review for about a day, hoping I could articulate exactly what it is that I love about this book. It’s definitely a page turner. At times, it felt like my heart was beating out of my chest, but I couldn’t stop!
The characters were lovable but frustrating, and the story line both gripping and heartbreaking. The author has a gift for creating suspense and fear without gore or graphic content. I could dissect it all, but why bother? Everything I have to say is glowing.
Patchen has crafted a completely viable thriller that walks you through the terror and the heartache of a couple whose love should be unshakable. Will the past tear them apart or bring them closer together? You’ve got to read it to find out! No spoilers here!
The characters were lovable but frustrating, and the story line both gripping and heartbreaking. The author has a gift for creating suspense and fear without gore or graphic content. I could dissect it all, but why bother? Everything I have to say is glowing.
Patchen has crafted a completely viable thriller that walks you through the terror and the heartache of a couple whose love should be unshakable. Will the past tear them apart or bring them closer together? You’ve got to read it to find out! No spoilers here!
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