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Keep Me Afloat
From the author of The Ingredients of Us comes a moving story about true love and heartbreak, mistakes and redemption, forgiveness and second chances.
Five years ago, marine biologist Abby Fisher made a mistake that cost her everything. Rather than face the consequences, she fled home to start anew—and built the career she’d always dreamed of. But when her research program runs out of funding, she’s adrift once again and decides to return to the safe harbor of her family and friends.
Except nothing at home is how she remembered.
Her friendships are strained, her normally affectionate parents seem distant, and her once-great love story is now just a painful memory. What’s worse, she keeps running into the people she hurt years ago—and they aren’t ready to forgive her.
Abby is determined to atone for her mistakes, but she can’t seem to move beyond her guilt for a chance of future happiness. Can Abby learn to sail through the storm, or will she remain lost at sea?
Poignant and heartfelt, Keep Me Afloat asks the question: How can you expect forgiveness from others if you can’t even forgive yourself?
Five years ago, marine biologist Abby Fisher made a mistake that cost her everything. Rather than face the consequences, she fled home to start anew—and built the career she’d always dreamed of. But when her research program runs out of funding, she’s adrift once again and decides to return to the safe harbor of her family and friends.
Except nothing at home is how she remembered.
Her friendships are strained, her normally affectionate parents seem distant, and her once-great love story is now just a painful memory. What’s worse, she keeps running into the people she hurt years ago—and they aren’t ready to forgive her.
Abby is determined to atone for her mistakes, but she can’t seem to move beyond her guilt for a chance of future happiness. Can Abby learn to sail through the storm, or will she remain lost at sea?
Poignant and heartfelt, Keep Me Afloat asks the question: How can you expect forgiveness from others if you can’t even forgive yourself?
382 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2020
689 people are currently reading
2865 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Gold
4 books377 followersJennifer Gold writes discussable book club fiction about love, second chances, and self-discovery. She’s the multi-award-winning author of The Ingredients of Us, Keep Me Afloat, and Halfway to You.
When she’s not writing, Jenni can be found traveling, enjoying the outdoors, or curled up with a book. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two cats.
To hear first about Jenni’s upcoming novels, receive bonus content and sneak peeks, and chat with Jenni directly, join her monthly newsletter. You can also connect with Jenni on Instagram @jennifergoldauthor.
Newsletter: https://www.jennifergoldauthor.com/ne...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifergol...
When she’s not writing, Jenni can be found traveling, enjoying the outdoors, or curled up with a book. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two cats.
To hear first about Jenni’s upcoming novels, receive bonus content and sneak peeks, and chat with Jenni directly, join her monthly newsletter. You can also connect with Jenni on Instagram @jennifergoldauthor.
Newsletter: https://www.jennifergoldauthor.com/ne...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifergol...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
November 24, 2019
4/5 stars
This is a lovely book, aspects of which I will remember for a long time. This is the story of Abby, her relationships, friendships, the mistakes and errors of judgement she makes, facing up to them with the chance for redemption and a fresh start and I like her story. However, the stand out thing for me is her job of marine biologist and aspects of this struck a real chord with me and that is mostly what I’m taking from this story. The story begins with Abby returning to Port Townsend WA, from California after she loses her research grant. She is returning partly because she has to but also to lay to rest some ghosts. It charts her relationship and marriage to Dennis Nelson and sadly the first thing I thought of when I saw the name was British serial killer Dennis Nilsen, though the fictional Dennis is a lovely man I’m pleased to say. She meets Eli a few years into her marriage when she is stultified in her job and this is where she questions things in her life. All this is intriguing and keeps your interest as Abby wrestles with her conscience. There are some lovely characters such as Abby’s parents her friends Chrissy and Nick and Zach in the coffee shop. Yes Zach, you are right, most things are better for coffee! I admit to having some issues with Abby. At times she is very selfish and judgemental but as she has the courage to admit her faults and finds the courage to face up to things, I warm to her. She’s fallible and makes mistakes as everyone does. I absolutely love the setting of the WA area as it sounds like my kind of place. It provides an atmospheric backdrop to events in and around Abby’s life and most things feel better for gazing out to sea!
However, it’s the marine element that grabs me my my heartstrings and there is one event that moves you to tears. Abby takes a job with the lovely Sound Adventures team taking people (with care and thought for the wildlife) into the Puget Sound to watch the marine life especially whales. I’ve been whale watching off the East Coast of America and it’s a profoundly beautiful and emotional experience and the story took me back to that but also moves the story on showing the precarious situation of this magical mammal. At one point in my watching experience I wasn’t sure who was watching who. Whale breath anyone? 🥴. So to say that I love this part of the story is somewhat of an understatement! Then Abby mentions Sir David Attenborough (several times. 93 year old national treasure, possibly international?) and so I was all in! I love Jennifer Gold’s sentiments and her reasons for writing the book and it struck a real chord.
Overall, a beautiful and emotional story which is well told. There are some lovely characters and descriptions, some moments of wisdom, some of sadness, some of joy as Abby is able to put her past to bed and move on. It makes you laugh, cry, want to give her a good shake and a stiff talking to and tell her to wake up and smell the roses. Thankfully, it ends on a positive note and we can only hope that the same will be true of the Orcas and other marine life.
For anyone UK based you can see Orcas and other whales off the west and north coast of Scotland but despite me nearly wearing my eyes out I’ve not been lucky enough to see one yet! Plenty of dolphins though!!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.
This is a lovely book, aspects of which I will remember for a long time. This is the story of Abby, her relationships, friendships, the mistakes and errors of judgement she makes, facing up to them with the chance for redemption and a fresh start and I like her story. However, the stand out thing for me is her job of marine biologist and aspects of this struck a real chord with me and that is mostly what I’m taking from this story. The story begins with Abby returning to Port Townsend WA, from California after she loses her research grant. She is returning partly because she has to but also to lay to rest some ghosts. It charts her relationship and marriage to Dennis Nelson and sadly the first thing I thought of when I saw the name was British serial killer Dennis Nilsen, though the fictional Dennis is a lovely man I’m pleased to say. She meets Eli a few years into her marriage when she is stultified in her job and this is where she questions things in her life. All this is intriguing and keeps your interest as Abby wrestles with her conscience. There are some lovely characters such as Abby’s parents her friends Chrissy and Nick and Zach in the coffee shop. Yes Zach, you are right, most things are better for coffee! I admit to having some issues with Abby. At times she is very selfish and judgemental but as she has the courage to admit her faults and finds the courage to face up to things, I warm to her. She’s fallible and makes mistakes as everyone does. I absolutely love the setting of the WA area as it sounds like my kind of place. It provides an atmospheric backdrop to events in and around Abby’s life and most things feel better for gazing out to sea!
However, it’s the marine element that grabs me my my heartstrings and there is one event that moves you to tears. Abby takes a job with the lovely Sound Adventures team taking people (with care and thought for the wildlife) into the Puget Sound to watch the marine life especially whales. I’ve been whale watching off the East Coast of America and it’s a profoundly beautiful and emotional experience and the story took me back to that but also moves the story on showing the precarious situation of this magical mammal. At one point in my watching experience I wasn’t sure who was watching who. Whale breath anyone? 🥴. So to say that I love this part of the story is somewhat of an understatement! Then Abby mentions Sir David Attenborough (several times. 93 year old national treasure, possibly international?) and so I was all in! I love Jennifer Gold’s sentiments and her reasons for writing the book and it struck a real chord.
Overall, a beautiful and emotional story which is well told. There are some lovely characters and descriptions, some moments of wisdom, some of sadness, some of joy as Abby is able to put her past to bed and move on. It makes you laugh, cry, want to give her a good shake and a stiff talking to and tell her to wake up and smell the roses. Thankfully, it ends on a positive note and we can only hope that the same will be true of the Orcas and other marine life.
For anyone UK based you can see Orcas and other whales off the west and north coast of Scotland but despite me nearly wearing my eyes out I’ve not been lucky enough to see one yet! Plenty of dolphins though!!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.
March 3, 2020
Abby is a flawed character. She’s made many mistakes in life. She thinks she’s atoned for them somewhat, but she can’t shake the guilt. It’s such a burden it’s keeping her from finding happiness. The distance she put between herself and others is only straining her relationships with those people now. How will Abby learn to forgive herself?
Abby is a smart woman, and I thought this was a relevant exploration of personal guilt. We all have flaws and relationships where we could have done better, more. I LOVED the scenery and the whales- they made my nature loving heart so happy. Overall, I found Keep Me Afloat to be a story full of heart even when it made mine hurt with the emotions of it all. And if you know me, those are just the kinds of stories I love most.
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Abby is a smart woman, and I thought this was a relevant exploration of personal guilt. We all have flaws and relationships where we could have done better, more. I LOVED the scenery and the whales- they made my nature loving heart so happy. Overall, I found Keep Me Afloat to be a story full of heart even when it made mine hurt with the emotions of it all. And if you know me, those are just the kinds of stories I love most.
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
March 3, 2020
Keep Me Afloat by Jennifer Gold
“How can you expect forgiveness from others if you can’t even forgive yourself”.
Keep me afloat was a heartfelt, complex and emotional story that took place on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula in Port Townsend, Washington. Through this gorgeous backdrop, we meet our protagonist, Abby Fisher, a marine biologist who has become a shadow of herself, hiding behind her past and her mistakes, unable to move forward and move on, with this dark cloud of guilt constantly looming above her. The story moved through her process of self discovery, forgiveness and second chances.
The story was deep and complex that covered issues that was definitely relatable and realistic. It touched upon topics on forgiveness of self and others, marriage and fidelity, balancing family and career, reconnecting with the past and ideals of coming back home, and parent/child relationship to name a few.
Gold’s writing style was as easy as the ocean breeze – flows well, was addicting, full of memorable characters, well thought out plots and sub-plots, and was a story that will stay with you long after you have finished reading.
Jennifer Gold was a new author to me but has quickly become one of my favorites and will also certainly be an auto buy author and one that I will be watching for.
“How can you expect forgiveness from others if you can’t even forgive yourself”.
Keep me afloat was a heartfelt, complex and emotional story that took place on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula in Port Townsend, Washington. Through this gorgeous backdrop, we meet our protagonist, Abby Fisher, a marine biologist who has become a shadow of herself, hiding behind her past and her mistakes, unable to move forward and move on, with this dark cloud of guilt constantly looming above her. The story moved through her process of self discovery, forgiveness and second chances.
The story was deep and complex that covered issues that was definitely relatable and realistic. It touched upon topics on forgiveness of self and others, marriage and fidelity, balancing family and career, reconnecting with the past and ideals of coming back home, and parent/child relationship to name a few.
Gold’s writing style was as easy as the ocean breeze – flows well, was addicting, full of memorable characters, well thought out plots and sub-plots, and was a story that will stay with you long after you have finished reading.
Jennifer Gold was a new author to me but has quickly become one of my favorites and will also certainly be an auto buy author and one that I will be watching for.
Read
November 26, 2019Dear Readers,
When I was a kid, I was obsessed with nature documentaries; I grew up on a steady diet of Steve Irwin and David Attenborough. Even now, I could successfully narrate the entirety of Blue Planet without skipping a beat. Before I became a writer, I entertained dreams of becoming a veterinarian, a marine naturalist, a wildlife photographer. I have always loved animals, especially whales. So, it’s probably not a surprise that I wrote a book about a marine biologist.
Keep Me Afloat is a love letter to the natural world, but it’s also a love letter to my hometown of Port Townsend. Poised on the water’s edge, Port Townsend is a charming and touristy Victorian seaport—it’s quirky and breathtakingly gorgeous. I have many fond memories of spotting seals and orcas from the deck of whale watching boats and even from the dock near my favorite coffee shop. In addition to writing an emotional, deep story about forgiveness, I wanted to write a book that showcases the wild and rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the marine wildlife that grace our surrounding waters.
While Keep Me Afloat might seem different than my first novel, The Ingredients of Us, you’ll notice it has similar themes of love, mistakes, self-discovery, and second chances. I won’t lie: this book is packed full of emotion—but my favorite kind of read is one that sticks with you long after you turn the last page…and that’s what I set out to do with this book.
It has already been described as “achingly beautiful” and “heart-wrenching.” It definitely has twists and turns—but it contains a lot of heart and hope, too. I can’t wait to hear what you think!
- Jenni
When I was a kid, I was obsessed with nature documentaries; I grew up on a steady diet of Steve Irwin and David Attenborough. Even now, I could successfully narrate the entirety of Blue Planet without skipping a beat. Before I became a writer, I entertained dreams of becoming a veterinarian, a marine naturalist, a wildlife photographer. I have always loved animals, especially whales. So, it’s probably not a surprise that I wrote a book about a marine biologist.
Keep Me Afloat is a love letter to the natural world, but it’s also a love letter to my hometown of Port Townsend. Poised on the water’s edge, Port Townsend is a charming and touristy Victorian seaport—it’s quirky and breathtakingly gorgeous. I have many fond memories of spotting seals and orcas from the deck of whale watching boats and even from the dock near my favorite coffee shop. In addition to writing an emotional, deep story about forgiveness, I wanted to write a book that showcases the wild and rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the marine wildlife that grace our surrounding waters.
While Keep Me Afloat might seem different than my first novel, The Ingredients of Us, you’ll notice it has similar themes of love, mistakes, self-discovery, and second chances. I won’t lie: this book is packed full of emotion—but my favorite kind of read is one that sticks with you long after you turn the last page…and that’s what I set out to do with this book.
It has already been described as “achingly beautiful” and “heart-wrenching.” It definitely has twists and turns—but it contains a lot of heart and hope, too. I can’t wait to hear what you think!
- Jenni
March 2, 2020
When funding runs out on her research project, 35 year old Abby, a marine biologist, heads home where she is finally forced to face her past mistakes head on. With the loving support of her parents and best friends from high school, Chrissy and Nick, will she finally find forgiveness from others and, most importantly, be able to forgive herself?
Ever since being deeply moved by Beneath the Surface: Killer Whales, SeaWorld, and the Truth Beyond Blackfish (5 stars) and Blackfish, a documentary about orcas, I have been heartbroken over the treatment of such majestic and intelligent creatures. I loved that Afloat brought attention to this topic and it's obvious that this is also a passionate subject for the author. For this reason and more, this book literally moved me to tears several times. I loved reading about the boat tours, and I definitely hope to experience one myself some day. This book was poignant, and I found myself rooting for Abby as she began to create a new life for herself.
Last summer, I read the author's debut, The Ingredients of Us (3.5 stars), and I knew then that this new author was very promising. I was so excited to read Afloat, especially once I learned it would be about whales, and as soon as I started reading, her writing style felt familiar. I was soon fully immersed in the story, devouring it in only two days because I could not put it down.
Location: Port Townsend, Washington
I received an advance copy of this book from #KateRockBookTours. All opinions are my own.
Ever since being deeply moved by Beneath the Surface: Killer Whales, SeaWorld, and the Truth Beyond Blackfish (5 stars) and Blackfish, a documentary about orcas, I have been heartbroken over the treatment of such majestic and intelligent creatures. I loved that Afloat brought attention to this topic and it's obvious that this is also a passionate subject for the author. For this reason and more, this book literally moved me to tears several times. I loved reading about the boat tours, and I definitely hope to experience one myself some day. This book was poignant, and I found myself rooting for Abby as she began to create a new life for herself.
Last summer, I read the author's debut, The Ingredients of Us (3.5 stars), and I knew then that this new author was very promising. I was so excited to read Afloat, especially once I learned it would be about whales, and as soon as I started reading, her writing style felt familiar. I was soon fully immersed in the story, devouring it in only two days because I could not put it down.
Location: Port Townsend, Washington
I received an advance copy of this book from #KateRockBookTours. All opinions are my own.
October 2, 2019
What a stunning, achingly beautiful novel about love, redemption, and whales.
Nothing is quite as it seems when marine biologist, Abby Fisher, returns home after a five-year absence. Penniless and jobless, she brings with her a half empty U-haul and a trailer of guilt. As she struggles to face those she hurt, and attempts to find a new job on the ocean, her true journey becomes a solitary one. Only by turning inward can Abby find forgiveness and permission for a second chance at love.
The ocean scenes are breathtaking--whales in the wild, people!--and the characters are rich. I especially love that KEEP ME ALOAT offers a new slant on something most of us struggle with: Can a woman successfully balance career and family? And if she makes the tough choices to put family first, can she still honor the passion that defines her? (I want to be present in a book club when that question comes up for discussion!)
Nothing is quite as it seems when marine biologist, Abby Fisher, returns home after a five-year absence. Penniless and jobless, she brings with her a half empty U-haul and a trailer of guilt. As she struggles to face those she hurt, and attempts to find a new job on the ocean, her true journey becomes a solitary one. Only by turning inward can Abby find forgiveness and permission for a second chance at love.
The ocean scenes are breathtaking--whales in the wild, people!--and the characters are rich. I especially love that KEEP ME ALOAT offers a new slant on something most of us struggle with: Can a woman successfully balance career and family? And if she makes the tough choices to put family first, can she still honor the passion that defines her? (I want to be present in a book club when that question comes up for discussion!)
February 28, 2020
Thoughtful, absorbing, and emotive!
Keep Me Afloat is a redemptive, heartfelt story that immerses you in a tale about confronting the past, accepting the things you cannot change, forgiving one’s self, taking chances, and moving on.
The writing is fluid and well turned. The characters are genuine, flawed, and supportive. And the plot is a hopeful, tender tale full of life, love, heartache, loss, grief, guilt, friendship, family, romance, community, introspection, and forgiveness.
Overall, Keep Me Afloat is a beautiful, uplifting, moving tale by Gold that reminds us that life is truly precious and even with all the ups and downs, highs and lows, it’s always meant to be lived to the fullest.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Keep Me Afloat is a redemptive, heartfelt story that immerses you in a tale about confronting the past, accepting the things you cannot change, forgiving one’s self, taking chances, and moving on.
The writing is fluid and well turned. The characters are genuine, flawed, and supportive. And the plot is a hopeful, tender tale full of life, love, heartache, loss, grief, guilt, friendship, family, romance, community, introspection, and forgiveness.
Overall, Keep Me Afloat is a beautiful, uplifting, moving tale by Gold that reminds us that life is truly precious and even with all the ups and downs, highs and lows, it’s always meant to be lived to the fullest.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2020
I really loved this book. It’s a story of forgiveness, moving forward and second chances. The characters were great and I really liked the writing style. Abby returns home to a small town in Washington state after a career setback. She is a marine biologist and has to reassess her career plans upon her return home. I was fascinated learning so much about the Pacific Ocean and the many sea animals that inhabit it. Overall a really great book that I thoroughly enjoyed.
February 26, 2020
Jennifer Gold, author of "Keep Me Afloat" has written a poignant, memorable, heartbreaking, and thought-provoking novel. The Genre for the novel is Fiction. The timeline for this story takes place in the present goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The author describes the characters as flawed, complex, complicated, and confused.
Abby Fisher has returned home after being at a job that ran out of funding. Five years before, Abby made some choices that have cost her trauma and pain. Abby is once again in her parent's home and has to start over again. Abby finds it difficult to move on from her past mistakes and forgive herself and sees that other people have a hard time forgiving her as well. Feeling guilty seems to be holding Abby back from going forward.
I love that the author discusses the importance of forgiveness, second chances, and having a fresh start. I also appreciate that the author discusses the difficulties for women having a career they want, and also a stable relationship. Women shouldn't have to make a choice of a career or marriage.
There was one OMG part of the story, where I was both surprised and having a Kleenex moment. As I wiped my tears away, I realized what a thought-provoking novel this is. I highly recommend this novel for those readers who appreciate a memorable and poignant story.
Abby Fisher has returned home after being at a job that ran out of funding. Five years before, Abby made some choices that have cost her trauma and pain. Abby is once again in her parent's home and has to start over again. Abby finds it difficult to move on from her past mistakes and forgive herself and sees that other people have a hard time forgiving her as well. Feeling guilty seems to be holding Abby back from going forward.
I love that the author discusses the importance of forgiveness, second chances, and having a fresh start. I also appreciate that the author discusses the difficulties for women having a career they want, and also a stable relationship. Women shouldn't have to make a choice of a career or marriage.
There was one OMG part of the story, where I was both surprised and having a Kleenex moment. As I wiped my tears away, I realized what a thought-provoking novel this is. I highly recommend this novel for those readers who appreciate a memorable and poignant story.
March 3, 2020
Running from a past mistake always makes you return home eventually to face it. That's what happens for Abby Fischer. She fled to start a new life leaving pain in her wake. Being a marine biologist was perfect until her funding ran out. Abby returns home. I could feel Abby's emotions, the weight of the guilt that torments her. This was my first time reading this author. I loved everything about this story. The characters, the setting, the plot. I sank right in to this the minute I started it. Excellent read as well as a great book club book .
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
March 2, 2020
This story switches back and forth from Abby's past and present. Btw the description make me feels like I was there watching the whales and other marines life with them.
There are one part where I had to stop reading because it surprised me and my heart can't take it. I had to stop myself from crying lol even till now my emotional ass can't let go of that feelings. Why? Why? I didn't expect that at all!! Why did you broke my heart? Phewww
Thank you Netgalley, author and publisher for Keep Me Afloat ARC!
There are one part where I had to stop reading because it surprised me and my heart can't take it. I had to stop myself from crying lol even till now my emotional ass can't let go of that feelings. Why? Why? I didn't expect that at all!! Why did you broke my heart? Phewww
Thank you Netgalley, author and publisher for Keep Me Afloat ARC!
February 26, 2020
I don't normally read books like this one, but I found myself completely immersed in Abby's story to the point I actually forgot I was reading a book in bed. Jennifer's parallel storytelling of Abby's present and past lives painted a great picture of the difficulties and struggles Abby was going through. You were able to fully grasp the back story. The writing style was simple, and easy to read as well—always a plus!
February 26, 2020
Thank you Lake Union Publishing for gifting me a copy of Jennifer Gold’s newest book, KEEP ME AFLOAT.
I am once again amazed at how seamlessly Jennifer Gold can craft a story. She manages to make me feel as if the main character is my closest friend after only reading a few pages. Her characters are always strong-willed, determined women who are often facing difficult circumstances and are learning how to cope after their lives have been uprooted.
The dual timeline gave me a glimpse into Abby’s life during her relationship and marriage to Dennis and what led to their inevitable separation. While I did have some idea as to where the storyline was heading with Dennis, it was still so eloquently told that it had my heart hurting for Abby as she grappled with the decision on whether she should follow her career or follow her heart and then as she dealt with the outcome of her decision.
I loved all of the details that Gold introduced into her novel surrounding Marine Biology; it was fascinating to me and I felt like I was standing alongside Abby as she watched the whales breach from the boat. Gold has a talent for adding exquisite details to her books.
Written with heartfelt emotions, humor, love, and a few delicious food references, KEEP ME AFLOAT was the book that my heart needed. I will continue to recommend Jennifer Gold’s books to my family and friends and will be waiting patiently for her to write her next book.
KEEP ME AFLOAT will be published on March 3, 2020, and is available to order now.
I am once again amazed at how seamlessly Jennifer Gold can craft a story. She manages to make me feel as if the main character is my closest friend after only reading a few pages. Her characters are always strong-willed, determined women who are often facing difficult circumstances and are learning how to cope after their lives have been uprooted.
The dual timeline gave me a glimpse into Abby’s life during her relationship and marriage to Dennis and what led to their inevitable separation. While I did have some idea as to where the storyline was heading with Dennis, it was still so eloquently told that it had my heart hurting for Abby as she grappled with the decision on whether she should follow her career or follow her heart and then as she dealt with the outcome of her decision.
I loved all of the details that Gold introduced into her novel surrounding Marine Biology; it was fascinating to me and I felt like I was standing alongside Abby as she watched the whales breach from the boat. Gold has a talent for adding exquisite details to her books.
Written with heartfelt emotions, humor, love, and a few delicious food references, KEEP ME AFLOAT was the book that my heart needed. I will continue to recommend Jennifer Gold’s books to my family and friends and will be waiting patiently for her to write her next book.
KEEP ME AFLOAT will be published on March 3, 2020, and is available to order now.
February 22, 2020
Keep Me Afloat by Jennifer Gold is a story of second chances, heartbreak and forgiveness. While there were certain elements of the story that were familiar, I thought the author created some truly interesting characters in Abby and Dennis, as well as the cast of supporting characters. What set this book apart from other books with a similar storyline was Abby's backstory of being a marine biologist and the descriptions of whales and the ocean. It was clear the author did her research, which allowed for a fascinating, well-crafted (and accurate) story.
3.5 stars!
3.5 stars!
May 14, 2020
keep me afloat - book review🐳
I feel like I can’t say enough about how much I loved this book, it’s definitely a contender for one of my most favourite reads ever. It was exactly what I needed to read during these crazy times. I’ve never not wanted a book to end so badly while also not wanting to put it down. This story is so beautiful, raw, heart wrenching & so well written✨
Keep me afloat tells the story of Abby, a marine biologist by trade who finds herself in her mid thirties, broke, not working in the field she loves and moving back to her hometown. The book flashes back and forth between 2011, where we learn about how her marriage first came to be and it’s subsequent downfall and 2018 where we witness Abby in present day.
I almost found this book to be therapeutic. I felt as though I was transported to the west coast in Washington state, where it’s set and could really visualize this story. I absolutely loved the wildlife aspect of this book, the whales were almost like an additional character and provided so much depth to the novel. Abby is a super relatable character, I could feel her pain and really sympathized with her. I’m truly so sad that this book is over😢 I 1000% recommend this book, 5/5⭐️ Also how beautiful is this cover 😍
I feel like I can’t say enough about how much I loved this book, it’s definitely a contender for one of my most favourite reads ever. It was exactly what I needed to read during these crazy times. I’ve never not wanted a book to end so badly while also not wanting to put it down. This story is so beautiful, raw, heart wrenching & so well written✨
Keep me afloat tells the story of Abby, a marine biologist by trade who finds herself in her mid thirties, broke, not working in the field she loves and moving back to her hometown. The book flashes back and forth between 2011, where we learn about how her marriage first came to be and it’s subsequent downfall and 2018 where we witness Abby in present day.
I almost found this book to be therapeutic. I felt as though I was transported to the west coast in Washington state, where it’s set and could really visualize this story. I absolutely loved the wildlife aspect of this book, the whales were almost like an additional character and provided so much depth to the novel. Abby is a super relatable character, I could feel her pain and really sympathized with her. I’m truly so sad that this book is over😢 I 1000% recommend this book, 5/5⭐️ Also how beautiful is this cover 😍
March 28, 2020
4.5 Stars
Abby returns home after five years away to the comfort and love of her parents and close friends, Chrissy and Nick, but not everyone is happy to see Abby back in Chimacum, Washington. Five years ago, an unfortunate decision resulted in the end of Abby's marriage to Dennis.
I really enjoyed this story of forgiveness, family and second chances. I found the descriptions of the whale watching tours so interesting. The twist toward the end shocked me; I wasn’t expecting it at all. Keep Me Afloat packs an emotional punch and I’ll be looking forward to what Jennifer Gold writes in the future.
I received an advanced copy; all opinions are my own.
Abby returns home after five years away to the comfort and love of her parents and close friends, Chrissy and Nick, but not everyone is happy to see Abby back in Chimacum, Washington. Five years ago, an unfortunate decision resulted in the end of Abby's marriage to Dennis.
I really enjoyed this story of forgiveness, family and second chances. I found the descriptions of the whale watching tours so interesting. The twist toward the end shocked me; I wasn’t expecting it at all. Keep Me Afloat packs an emotional punch and I’ll be looking forward to what Jennifer Gold writes in the future.
I received an advanced copy; all opinions are my own.
January 2, 2020
I was very disappointed with this book, which I found trite and stale. The main character, Abby, a grown woman of 35, is still having trouble negotiating life and love. The parts of the story that focused on marine mammals, whales in particular, was well researched and made important points about habitat and behavior. The rest of the story I thought was weak and contrived.
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley.
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley.
February 26, 2020
Jennifer Gold, author of "Keep Me Afloat" has written a poignant, memorable, heartbreaking, and thought-provoking novel. The Genre for the novel is Fiction. The timeline for this story takes place in the present goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The author describes the characters as flawed, complex, complicated, and confused.
Abby Fisher has returned home after being at a job that ran out of funding. Five years before, Abby made some choices that have cost her trauma and pain. Abby is once again in her parent's home and has to start over again. Abby finds it difficult to move on from her past mistakes and forgive herself and sees that other people have a hard time forgiving her as well. Feeling guilty seems to be holding Abby back from going forward.
I love that the author discusses the importance of forgiveness, second chances, and having a fresh start. I also appreciate that the author discusses the difficulties for women having a career they want, and also a stable relationship. Women shouldn't have to make a choice of a career or marriage.
There was one OMG part of the story, where I was both surprised and having a Kleenex moment. As I wiped my tears away, I realized what a thought-provoking novel this is. I highly recommend this novel for those readers who appreciate a memorable and poignant story.
Abby Fisher has returned home after being at a job that ran out of funding. Five years before, Abby made some choices that have cost her trauma and pain. Abby is once again in her parent's home and has to start over again. Abby finds it difficult to move on from her past mistakes and forgive herself and sees that other people have a hard time forgiving her as well. Feeling guilty seems to be holding Abby back from going forward.
I love that the author discusses the importance of forgiveness, second chances, and having a fresh start. I also appreciate that the author discusses the difficulties for women having a career they want, and also a stable relationship. Women shouldn't have to make a choice of a career or marriage.
There was one OMG part of the story, where I was both surprised and having a Kleenex moment. As I wiped my tears away, I realized what a thought-provoking novel this is. I highly recommend this novel for those readers who appreciate a memorable and poignant story.
January 28, 2020
I enjoy this author's writing style. It's hard to explain but it just flows so easily that you feel like you know the characters. The one thing that keeps popping up in my mind when I think of this book is Abby is a Marine Biologist. She makes some choices about her career for other people and puts herself on the back burner. This decision digs a hole in her soul and she is desperate to get back on the water. Life with Dennis is anything but exciting. The love of her life is comfortable in the little town they grew up in but doesn't realize the anguish Abby feels working at a bank so they can pay bills. She yearns for a life of freedom and finds Eli a bank customer who is a professional photographer who travels the world who can provide conversation to draw her back to where she wants to be. Abby's choices affect more than herself. I loved the characters the author created of her best friends Chrissy and Nick. Everyone should have friends like them to help get us through the most difficult aspects of life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lakeside Authors for this ARC of this story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lakeside Authors for this ARC of this story.
January 29, 2020
This was a great book about dealing with heartbreak, loss, and the uncertainties of life. It tells the story of Abby, who went to school for marine biology and has a passion for all things oceanic. When she meets her future husband Dennis, however, her life takes a turn she hadn't expected or planned for. Years later, after having lived and worked in California for a while, she is back in her hometown and struggling to face the things in her past that she never made peace with. The story goes back and forth between the present and the past, and I really enjoyed how it all came together by the end. Definitely recommend this book!
*Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and the author for this ARC! :)
*Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and the author for this ARC! :)
March 5, 2020
Even though it took me a while to warm up and understand Abby, I ultimately enjoyed experiencing her journey. I thought the message of the importance of looking forward instead of backward was unmistakable, but not in an annoying or preachy manner. I thoroughly enjoyed the descriptions of whale watching and felt Abby come alive when she talked about her passion. I also appreciated the emphasis on the importance of marine conservation. I am so glad to have found this author; her characters are real and relatable. For a full review, please visit my blog at Fireflies and Free Kicks. Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union for a pre-release digital ARC of the book. All thoughts are my own.
March 3, 2020
I received this free book from the publisher for honest review.
4.5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
This is the first time reading from this author.
I really could say that this was great one. I love everything about this book. The words was just like yes give me more. I love the cover even more. My emotions was everywhere! Like OMG!
What a great read! This had me hooked from the beginning. The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled so in. Everything was well put together and it was just perfect. This novel did just that to me.
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for next book.
4.5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
This is the first time reading from this author.
I really could say that this was great one. I love everything about this book. The words was just like yes give me more. I love the cover even more. My emotions was everywhere! Like OMG!
What a great read! This had me hooked from the beginning. The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled so in. Everything was well put together and it was just perfect. This novel did just that to me.
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for next book.
January 23, 2020
Jennifer Gold has written another heart stopping novel in Keep Me Afloat. The story takes place beginning in 2000 and also in 2018, the present. It weaves seamlessly from past to present and back to the past again in the life of Abby and the love of her life, Dennis. I found it very hard to put down and also very emotional, especially toward the end. I felt anger, sadness, peace, fear and joy nestled in the pages of this lovely novel. I knew Abby’s love of the sea aboard the whale watching boats where she worked. It all began with one drop of sea water, she says, and I as a reader, felt alive as the whales breached and dived by the boat. This was an excellent novel. The characters were so real, their emotions so well portrayed. I highly recommend Jennifer Gold’s Keep Me Afloat! Thank you to the author and NetGalley for my advanced reader copy.
February 1, 2020
Keep Me Afloat is a poignant story of love, loss, mistakes and regret. It was a very emotional read that will make you smile and bring a tear to your eyes as you track through Abby’s life, relationships, and mistakes.
Abby has just returned home after her research grant in marine biology has run out. However it forces her to face her Desmond while feeling out of sort almost as if she doesn’t belong. It brings out the question how can you expect forgiveness when you can’t forgive yourself?
This novel is a story of growth that will be sure to inspire hope. The authors descriptions are captivating and you feel immersed as you make the journey into this natural and serene setting.
Abby has just returned home after her research grant in marine biology has run out. However it forces her to face her Desmond while feeling out of sort almost as if she doesn’t belong. It brings out the question how can you expect forgiveness when you can’t forgive yourself?
This novel is a story of growth that will be sure to inspire hope. The authors descriptions are captivating and you feel immersed as you make the journey into this natural and serene setting.
February 3, 2020
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy of Jennifer's newest novel. Keep Me Afloat is a rich ebb and flow of human emotion, offering an intimate look at a young marine biologist’s journey to finding herself. Set against the extraordinary backdrop of the Pacific Northwest coastline, this engaging story will leave readers buoyant with hope.
February 13, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Keep Me Afloat
Jennifer Gold
3-3-20
Can one mistake really ruin your life? Abby Fisher finds love, her life seems to be falling into place. The story follows Abby from High School - 2000 - to adulthood 2018. Each chapter told from Abby’s point of view going back and forth in time. The character development was perfect. They were likable, reliable and supportive. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and following them throughout the years. Abby and Dennis seem to have it all, but Abby is at a crossroad. She makes a decision that may impact her career path as well as her marriage. We follow Abby as she tries to pick up the pieces and find closure, forgiveness and acceptance. This was a very fast paced read and I enjoyed it very much!!
Thank you the Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me the ARC for my honest review of Keep Me Afloat
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Keep Me Afloat
Jennifer Gold
3-3-20
Can one mistake really ruin your life? Abby Fisher finds love, her life seems to be falling into place. The story follows Abby from High School - 2000 - to adulthood 2018. Each chapter told from Abby’s point of view going back and forth in time. The character development was perfect. They were likable, reliable and supportive. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and following them throughout the years. Abby and Dennis seem to have it all, but Abby is at a crossroad. She makes a decision that may impact her career path as well as her marriage. We follow Abby as she tries to pick up the pieces and find closure, forgiveness and acceptance. This was a very fast paced read and I enjoyed it very much!!
Thank you the Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me the ARC for my honest review of Keep Me Afloat
@donnasnotsosecretbookdiary
@donna64619247
February 29, 2020
After a big mistake breaks apart her marriage with the love of her life, marine biologist Abby runs away to California to join a research project about whales. But five years later, when the funding for the project is cut, Abby returns to her hometown looking for forgiveness. But the hardest one to forgive is herself.
This wonderful story jumps back and forth from past to present with each chapter, from meeting and marrying Dennis, and their marriage, to the present trying to build a new career and repairing her past relationships with friends and family. This really showed the importance of communication in a marriage. If she had just talked to Dennis and explained why she needed a job in the field she loved, he would have understood and been able to compromise. Such a sad story but with a happy ending.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This wonderful story jumps back and forth from past to present with each chapter, from meeting and marrying Dennis, and their marriage, to the present trying to build a new career and repairing her past relationships with friends and family. This really showed the importance of communication in a marriage. If she had just talked to Dennis and explained why she needed a job in the field she loved, he would have understood and been able to compromise. Such a sad story but with a happy ending.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 2, 2020
This book was good, but not as fantastic as I had hoped. The book follows Abby, a mid-thirties marine biologist moving back to her hometown after a job loss. The book is told in two timelines; one is 2018, and one timeline follows her through meeting her husband as a teen and her life until a traumatic event happens. I would have liked this book more if the past tense chapters had been longer. I feel like I didn't really connect with that half of the book the way I did with Abby's 2018 persona (which had much longer chapters comparitively). Every time I got into a past tense chapters' groove, bam! It was over. However that being said, I did like the story and the book is worth a read. 3.5 stars!
December 31, 2019
This is a beautifully written story about a woman who strives to be a marine biologist and at the same time tries to be fully there for her love. Balancing life with family and a career can be challenging. The main character has made some mistakes which brought on some emotional baggage. Returning home to the beautiful Pacific Northwest to face the past from which she ran from has her seeing changes for her family, seeking redemption and forgiveness, and opening up to a second chance at love. I loved the description of the marine wildlife throughout the book. The beautiful setting for this book is great for nature lovers and for readers of humanness stories.
March 3, 2020
Forgiving ourselves is one of the hardest lessons we need to learn. This is the lesson Abby needs to learn in this heart felt story that will linger with you and have you cheering for Abby as she faces her last to be able to move toward the future waiting for her. Happy reading! #KeepMeAfloat #NetGalley
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