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My Name Is Anton
New York Times bestselling author Catherine Ryan Hyde returns with a hopeful novel of sacrifice, two lost souls, and enduring love.
It’s 1965, and life has taken a turn for eighteen-year-old Anton Addison-Rice. Nearly a year after his brother died in a tragic accident, Anton is still wounded—physically and emotionally. Alone for the holidays, he catches a glimpse of his neighbor Edith across the street one evening and realizes that she’s in danger.
Anton is determined to help Edith leave her abusive marriage. Frightened and fifteen years Anton’s senior, Edith is slow to trust. But when she needs a safe place to stay, she lets down her guard, and over the course of ten days an unlikely friendship grows. As Anton falls hopelessly and selflessly in love, Edith fears both her husband finding her and Anton getting hurt. She must disappear without telling anyone where she’s going—even Anton.
If keeping Edith safe means letting her go, Anton will say goodbye forever. Or so he believes. What would happen, though, if one day their paths should cross again?
It’s 1965, and life has taken a turn for eighteen-year-old Anton Addison-Rice. Nearly a year after his brother died in a tragic accident, Anton is still wounded—physically and emotionally. Alone for the holidays, he catches a glimpse of his neighbor Edith across the street one evening and realizes that she’s in danger.
Anton is determined to help Edith leave her abusive marriage. Frightened and fifteen years Anton’s senior, Edith is slow to trust. But when she needs a safe place to stay, she lets down her guard, and over the course of ten days an unlikely friendship grows. As Anton falls hopelessly and selflessly in love, Edith fears both her husband finding her and Anton getting hurt. She must disappear without telling anyone where she’s going—even Anton.
If keeping Edith safe means letting her go, Anton will say goodbye forever. Or so he believes. What would happen, though, if one day their paths should cross again?
364 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 2020
2804 people are currently reading
6134 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Ryan Hyde
73 books6,214 followersCatherine Ryan Hyde is the author of more than 50 published and forthcoming books.
She is co-author, with publishing industry blogger Anne R. Allen, of How to be a Writer in the E-Age: a Self-Help Guide.
Her bestselling 1999 novel Pay It Forward was made into a major Warner Brothers motion picture. It was chosen by the American Library Association for its Best Books for Young Adults list, and translated into more than two dozen languages for distribution in over 30 countries. Simon & Schuster released a special 15th anniversary edition in December of ’14.
Pay It Forward: Young Readers Edition, an age-appropriate edited edition of the original novel, was released by Simon & Schuster in August of ‘14. It is suitable for children as young as eight.
You can learn much more about Catherine at www.catherineryanhyde.com
She is co-author, with publishing industry blogger Anne R. Allen, of How to be a Writer in the E-Age: a Self-Help Guide.
Her bestselling 1999 novel Pay It Forward was made into a major Warner Brothers motion picture. It was chosen by the American Library Association for its Best Books for Young Adults list, and translated into more than two dozen languages for distribution in over 30 countries. Simon & Schuster released a special 15th anniversary edition in December of ’14.
Pay It Forward: Young Readers Edition, an age-appropriate edited edition of the original novel, was released by Simon & Schuster in August of ‘14. It is suitable for children as young as eight.
You can learn much more about Catherine at www.catherineryanhyde.com
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August 4, 2023
My Name Is Anton by Catherine Ryan Hyde
Eighteen year old Anton Addison-Rice has had a horrible, emotionally and physically devastating year. His beloved grandfather died and then in a single instant, he lost his brother and his right hand. Anton's parents have emotionally abandoned him and now they have left for a vacation in South America, leaving him to spend Christmas alone in their apartment. Luckily Anton has his great uncle and his grandmother, who worry about him, watch over him, and who abhor how he is treated by his parents. Anton is not okay but he copes the best that he can, without the help of therapy, which his parents won't allow.
While his parents are gone, Anton sees a woman being beaten by her husband, in an apartment across the street. Anton befriends this woman and convinces her to leave her husband. Edith is thirty three years old and stays a few weeks with Anton, until she leaves on a train the day after Christmas, refusing to tell Anton where she is going. Anton has fallen in love with Edith and wants to go with her but Edith won't allow it, because she knows it's wrong, due to their age difference, since Anton is so young. And that's it, Anton doesn't see or hear from Edith until a chance meeting fifteen years later. Anton has never stopped thinking about Edith, never stopped being in love with her.
Anton let Edith go the first time because his grandmother taught him that real love is putting the other person's welfare ahead of yours, even if that means their life doesn't include you. Now Anton has another chance, as a man, to see where life can lead him, with Edith in his life. This story is slow and very much about these two characters, especially Anton. He is almost too good to be true, selfless to a fault, and it was interesting to see how he handles life, trying to do the right thing even when it hurts.
Pub Dec 1st 2020
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.
Eighteen year old Anton Addison-Rice has had a horrible, emotionally and physically devastating year. His beloved grandfather died and then in a single instant, he lost his brother and his right hand. Anton's parents have emotionally abandoned him and now they have left for a vacation in South America, leaving him to spend Christmas alone in their apartment. Luckily Anton has his great uncle and his grandmother, who worry about him, watch over him, and who abhor how he is treated by his parents. Anton is not okay but he copes the best that he can, without the help of therapy, which his parents won't allow.
While his parents are gone, Anton sees a woman being beaten by her husband, in an apartment across the street. Anton befriends this woman and convinces her to leave her husband. Edith is thirty three years old and stays a few weeks with Anton, until she leaves on a train the day after Christmas, refusing to tell Anton where she is going. Anton has fallen in love with Edith and wants to go with her but Edith won't allow it, because she knows it's wrong, due to their age difference, since Anton is so young. And that's it, Anton doesn't see or hear from Edith until a chance meeting fifteen years later. Anton has never stopped thinking about Edith, never stopped being in love with her.
Anton let Edith go the first time because his grandmother taught him that real love is putting the other person's welfare ahead of yours, even if that means their life doesn't include you. Now Anton has another chance, as a man, to see where life can lead him, with Edith in his life. This story is slow and very much about these two characters, especially Anton. He is almost too good to be true, selfless to a fault, and it was interesting to see how he handles life, trying to do the right thing even when it hurts.
Pub Dec 1st 2020
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.
November 19, 2020
This is my 4th Catherine Ryan Hyde read and all 4 earned 5 stars! Ms. Hyde is now officially one of my very favorite authors and a real go-to writer for me. Gosh, despite her novels having similar themes (in my experience so far), it amazes me how she can wrap them up with so many different storylines. My Name is Anton is more of a romance, which is not her usual, but one with exceptional depth and feeling. This is not a fly by night romance with a cute cover with the title in curly script (don’t get me wrong, I like those sometimes too). This is a serious love story.
As with all of CRH’s books, the theme is deep personal relationships trying to develop and survive in the real world and how important advice, usually from the elderly population, can help build and/or save those relationships. There is overcoming of adversity (yeah, I know, but CRH is a real pro at this) and the dogged determination of the protagonist to do the right thing. There isn’t always a big bow at the end, but there is always hope. And what I like most is the realistic nature of the characters. These people are our friends, our neighbors, our grandparents—real everyday people.
If I can think of any criticism of My Name is Anton, it would be that Anton is almost (ALMOST) too good to be real. This is an issue that is just on the borderline though and is not something that comes anywhere close to threatening the book’s 5-star rating.
There is virtually no action in this book, but there is certainly suspense in what is going to happen. I also reveled in the profound thought processes of our man Anton. So well, done, Ms. Hyde!
I am not getting into plotline as this is one of those books that should be read totally cold turkey. I did not initially read the blurb as this is CRH. I knew I would love it so did not hesitant to immediately hit the green Net Galley button. But I did read over the table of contents and in a way wish I hadn’t. I should have read it stone dead cold for maximal enjoyment.
I recommend this book for everyone looking to go on a deeply heartfelt journey with an exceptional protagonist. For anyone who is interested, ARCs are available as READ NOW from Net Galley, and publication date isn’t until December 2020.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Lake Union Publishing, and Catherine Ryan Hyde for an ARC of this novel. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
As with all of CRH’s books, the theme is deep personal relationships trying to develop and survive in the real world and how important advice, usually from the elderly population, can help build and/or save those relationships. There is overcoming of adversity (yeah, I know, but CRH is a real pro at this) and the dogged determination of the protagonist to do the right thing. There isn’t always a big bow at the end, but there is always hope. And what I like most is the realistic nature of the characters. These people are our friends, our neighbors, our grandparents—real everyday people.
If I can think of any criticism of My Name is Anton, it would be that Anton is almost (ALMOST) too good to be real. This is an issue that is just on the borderline though and is not something that comes anywhere close to threatening the book’s 5-star rating.
There is virtually no action in this book, but there is certainly suspense in what is going to happen. I also reveled in the profound thought processes of our man Anton. So well, done, Ms. Hyde!
I am not getting into plotline as this is one of those books that should be read totally cold turkey. I did not initially read the blurb as this is CRH. I knew I would love it so did not hesitant to immediately hit the green Net Galley button. But I did read over the table of contents and in a way wish I hadn’t. I should have read it stone dead cold for maximal enjoyment.
I recommend this book for everyone looking to go on a deeply heartfelt journey with an exceptional protagonist. For anyone who is interested, ARCs are available as READ NOW from Net Galley, and publication date isn’t until December 2020.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Lake Union Publishing, and Catherine Ryan Hyde for an ARC of this novel. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
December 2, 2020
EXCERPT: . . . he centred himself over the telescope, and prepared to do a better job setting it in place.
Before he could, an image caught his eye: a white wall with a mantelpiece, and an abstract painting on the wall above it. It was captured in the eyepiece of the telescope, which was now pointing downward at the building across the street. Anthony's eye had accidentally hovered at just the right distance above the eyepiece. The scene was in perfect focus.
Realizing he was looking through somebody else's window, and uncomfortable with the idea, he moved to correct the angle of the scope quickly. Or, more accurately, he prepared to move. He gave his various limbs and their muscles a signal to move. But, before they could, something happened.
A figure streaked into the scene, clearly captured by Anthony's new telescope.
It appeared to be a woman, though it all happened very fast. She was running. Scrambling. Her body was bent forward, as if to accelerate getting out of the way of something. Something behind her. Her head was bent slightly forward, her arms raised, hands hovering behind her head as if to protect it.
Then, just as quickly, a male hand and arm entered the view. It was a bare arm, save for the short sleeve of a white undershirt. It was noticeably hairy. In a disconnected and more or less inadvertent thought, it struck Anthony that he owned a very good telescope, because it could reveal hair on the arm of a man across the street.
The man's hand grabbed the woman by her hair.
Anthony sucked in air with an audible gasp as he watched the woman's head jerked backward. It was a breathtakingly violent gesture.
Then the woman disappeared from his view. Backward. Pulled back out of the scene. By her hair.
ABOUT 'MY NAME IS ANTON': It’s 1965, and life has taken a turn for eighteen-year-old Anton Addison-Rice. Nearly a year after his brother died in a tragic accident, Anton is still wounded—physically and emotionally. Alone for the holidays, he catches a glimpse of his neighbor Edith across the street one evening and realizes that she’s in danger.
Anton is determined to help Edith leave her abusive marriage. Frightened and fifteen years Anton’s senior, Edith is slow to trust. But when she needs a safe place to stay, she lets down her guard, and over the course of ten days an unlikely friendship grows. As Anton falls hopelessly and selflessly in love, Edith fears both her husband finding her and Anton getting hurt. She must disappear without telling anyone where she’s going—even Anton.
If keeping Edith safe means letting her go, Anton will say goodbye forever. Or so he believes. What would happen, though, if one day their paths should cross again?
MY THOUGHTS: Okay, so now I know what all the fuss is about. I read a book by this author a few months back, and it was okay, nothing special, and couldn't really understand why everyone was raving about her writing. Now I do.
My Name is Anton is a deeply emotional read. Anton is grieving. In a short space of time he has lost his beloved grandfather, his brother and his right hand. Then into his life comes Edith. Anton couldn't save his brother, but he can, he hopes, save her.
The story spans fifty-five years, starting in 1965 when Anton is eighteen, and Edith thirty-three. This is a story of great personal strength, of grief, love, loss, sacrifice, moral dilemmas and doing what is right. Not what is right for yourself, but what is right.
There is a wonderful mix of characters in this book. Anton's grandmother Marion, and his Uncle Gregor, a psychiatrist, are towers of strength and fonts of wisdom. At the other end of the spectrum are Anton's parents, Abel and Vera, who are horrible, self-obsessed people, more concerned with 'what would people think!' than about the welfare of their only surviving child.
Ryan-Hyde touches on a lot of subject matter - suicide, mental illness, alcoholism, domestic abuse, disability, child welfare and adoption - but weaves them all together seamlessly to produce a compelling narrative that I devoured in one sitting.
I will definitely be reading more from this author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#MyNameisAnton #NetGalley
'Looking directly at a painful truth hurts less than being stalked by it.'
THE AUTHOR: Catherine Ryan Hyde is an American author born in 1955. Hyde has found success both as a novelist and short story writer in the U.S and the U.K, winning numerous honors and awards in the process.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Lake Union Publishing via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of My Name is Anton by Catherine Ryan-Hyde for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Before he could, an image caught his eye: a white wall with a mantelpiece, and an abstract painting on the wall above it. It was captured in the eyepiece of the telescope, which was now pointing downward at the building across the street. Anthony's eye had accidentally hovered at just the right distance above the eyepiece. The scene was in perfect focus.
Realizing he was looking through somebody else's window, and uncomfortable with the idea, he moved to correct the angle of the scope quickly. Or, more accurately, he prepared to move. He gave his various limbs and their muscles a signal to move. But, before they could, something happened.
A figure streaked into the scene, clearly captured by Anthony's new telescope.
It appeared to be a woman, though it all happened very fast. She was running. Scrambling. Her body was bent forward, as if to accelerate getting out of the way of something. Something behind her. Her head was bent slightly forward, her arms raised, hands hovering behind her head as if to protect it.
Then, just as quickly, a male hand and arm entered the view. It was a bare arm, save for the short sleeve of a white undershirt. It was noticeably hairy. In a disconnected and more or less inadvertent thought, it struck Anthony that he owned a very good telescope, because it could reveal hair on the arm of a man across the street.
The man's hand grabbed the woman by her hair.
Anthony sucked in air with an audible gasp as he watched the woman's head jerked backward. It was a breathtakingly violent gesture.
Then the woman disappeared from his view. Backward. Pulled back out of the scene. By her hair.
ABOUT 'MY NAME IS ANTON': It’s 1965, and life has taken a turn for eighteen-year-old Anton Addison-Rice. Nearly a year after his brother died in a tragic accident, Anton is still wounded—physically and emotionally. Alone for the holidays, he catches a glimpse of his neighbor Edith across the street one evening and realizes that she’s in danger.
Anton is determined to help Edith leave her abusive marriage. Frightened and fifteen years Anton’s senior, Edith is slow to trust. But when she needs a safe place to stay, she lets down her guard, and over the course of ten days an unlikely friendship grows. As Anton falls hopelessly and selflessly in love, Edith fears both her husband finding her and Anton getting hurt. She must disappear without telling anyone where she’s going—even Anton.
If keeping Edith safe means letting her go, Anton will say goodbye forever. Or so he believes. What would happen, though, if one day their paths should cross again?
MY THOUGHTS: Okay, so now I know what all the fuss is about. I read a book by this author a few months back, and it was okay, nothing special, and couldn't really understand why everyone was raving about her writing. Now I do.
My Name is Anton is a deeply emotional read. Anton is grieving. In a short space of time he has lost his beloved grandfather, his brother and his right hand. Then into his life comes Edith. Anton couldn't save his brother, but he can, he hopes, save her.
The story spans fifty-five years, starting in 1965 when Anton is eighteen, and Edith thirty-three. This is a story of great personal strength, of grief, love, loss, sacrifice, moral dilemmas and doing what is right. Not what is right for yourself, but what is right.
There is a wonderful mix of characters in this book. Anton's grandmother Marion, and his Uncle Gregor, a psychiatrist, are towers of strength and fonts of wisdom. At the other end of the spectrum are Anton's parents, Abel and Vera, who are horrible, self-obsessed people, more concerned with 'what would people think!' than about the welfare of their only surviving child.
Ryan-Hyde touches on a lot of subject matter - suicide, mental illness, alcoholism, domestic abuse, disability, child welfare and adoption - but weaves them all together seamlessly to produce a compelling narrative that I devoured in one sitting.
I will definitely be reading more from this author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#MyNameisAnton #NetGalley
'Looking directly at a painful truth hurts less than being stalked by it.'
THE AUTHOR: Catherine Ryan Hyde is an American author born in 1955. Hyde has found success both as a novelist and short story writer in the U.S and the U.K, winning numerous honors and awards in the process.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Lake Union Publishing via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of My Name is Anton by Catherine Ryan-Hyde for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
November 28, 2020
3.5 stars
Anton has suffered terrible losses and is still reeling from them in the beginning of this book. Coping with the physical and emotional loss is tough enough but when his parents decide to go away for Christmas, he is left alone to cope with loneliness as well. When he uses his new telescope, he witnesses his neighbor Edith across the street in a horrifying situation.
Anton decides to help her and the two form a close bond/friendship as Anton tries to get her to leave her abusive husband and begin again. As their friendship deepens so does Anton's feelings for Edith. Knowing she must leave; they pair know they may never see each other again....
This book read like a movie for me. I enjoyed the leisurely pace of this book. As we get to know the characters, we cannot help but feel for them. Who did not want to boo and hiss at Anton's parents when they planned and left for vacation without giving advance notice to Anton? Who did not adore his relatives especially his grandmother?
This book is very character driven. I tend to enjoy faster paced books with lots of action, but I enjoyed the pacing of this book. I did feel at times that Anton was a little too nice, a little too honest, while at the same time feeling sympathetic to what he has experienced in his life. I mentioned earlier that this book read like a movie; that is because this book spans their lives from when they met, and in part due to how the book was written. We watch as Anton continually make sacrifices and is almost too good to be true. He has learned valuable life lessons from his grandmother about putting the needs of others in front of your own. What will the future hold for these two characters? Will you like the future that Catherine Ryan Hyde has written?
This book examines family, friendship, love, sacrifices, overcoming obstacles, being there for someone, and coping with loss. Although the book does deal with some difficult subject matter, it is uplifting.
p.s. don't call him Anthony!
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Anton has suffered terrible losses and is still reeling from them in the beginning of this book. Coping with the physical and emotional loss is tough enough but when his parents decide to go away for Christmas, he is left alone to cope with loneliness as well. When he uses his new telescope, he witnesses his neighbor Edith across the street in a horrifying situation.
Anton decides to help her and the two form a close bond/friendship as Anton tries to get her to leave her abusive husband and begin again. As their friendship deepens so does Anton's feelings for Edith. Knowing she must leave; they pair know they may never see each other again....
This book read like a movie for me. I enjoyed the leisurely pace of this book. As we get to know the characters, we cannot help but feel for them. Who did not want to boo and hiss at Anton's parents when they planned and left for vacation without giving advance notice to Anton? Who did not adore his relatives especially his grandmother?
This book is very character driven. I tend to enjoy faster paced books with lots of action, but I enjoyed the pacing of this book. I did feel at times that Anton was a little too nice, a little too honest, while at the same time feeling sympathetic to what he has experienced in his life. I mentioned earlier that this book read like a movie; that is because this book spans their lives from when they met, and in part due to how the book was written. We watch as Anton continually make sacrifices and is almost too good to be true. He has learned valuable life lessons from his grandmother about putting the needs of others in front of your own. What will the future hold for these two characters? Will you like the future that Catherine Ryan Hyde has written?
This book examines family, friendship, love, sacrifices, overcoming obstacles, being there for someone, and coping with loss. Although the book does deal with some difficult subject matter, it is uplifting.
p.s. don't call him Anthony!
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 2, 2020
3.5
At eighteen years old, Anton has endured more than his fair share of tragedy, but despite that, this selfless young man, will make it his mission to try and help the woman across the street, who is being abused by her husband.
The first half of the book, has a slow, gentle pace, as a friendship develops between the two, and, Anton struggles to say goodbye to Edith, who he has fallen in love with, despite the circumstances.
They will not keep in touch, and he will not know where she is going, so that each can remain “safe” from her abusive husband.
The story picks up 15 years later, when a chance encounter will bring them together again, and each will learn about what has transpired since the day, Edith got on a train to parts unknown.
The crossing of their paths, will alter the direction of their futures.
Whether or not you “buy into” what happens from that point on, will ultimately decide your feelings about the story. It was a tough sell, and a bit too saccharine for me.
As always though, the author delivers wonderful characters, and many touching moments and although this was not MY personal favorite from the author, I look forward to reading whatever she pens next.
A buddy read with DeAnn and Mary Beth!
Be sure to read their reviews to see if they felt the same way!
I received a gifted ARC from the publisher.
It was my pleasure to provide an honest review!
Available Dec. 1, 2020
At eighteen years old, Anton has endured more than his fair share of tragedy, but despite that, this selfless young man, will make it his mission to try and help the woman across the street, who is being abused by her husband.
The first half of the book, has a slow, gentle pace, as a friendship develops between the two, and, Anton struggles to say goodbye to Edith, who he has fallen in love with, despite the circumstances.
They will not keep in touch, and he will not know where she is going, so that each can remain “safe” from her abusive husband.
The story picks up 15 years later, when a chance encounter will bring them together again, and each will learn about what has transpired since the day, Edith got on a train to parts unknown.
The crossing of their paths, will alter the direction of their futures.
Whether or not you “buy into” what happens from that point on, will ultimately decide your feelings about the story. It was a tough sell, and a bit too saccharine for me.
As always though, the author delivers wonderful characters, and many touching moments and although this was not MY personal favorite from the author, I look forward to reading whatever she pens next.
A buddy read with DeAnn and Mary Beth!
Be sure to read their reviews to see if they felt the same way!
I received a gifted ARC from the publisher.
It was my pleasure to provide an honest review!
Available Dec. 1, 2020
November 17, 2020
This is another warm, well crafted novel from Catherine Ryan Hyde. She really does write superb character driven tales where the characters are not only well developed but flawed in very real and human ways. Somehow she manages to touch on so many issues in this novel - domestic abuse, mental illness, suicide, disability, adoption and child protection. However, an overarching theme of love and selflessness makes this a positive tale of what it means to really love someone and belong to a family.
When we first meet Anton (who is going by the name of Anthony) at the age of 18, he has in the last seven months lost his beloved grandfather Anton, as well as his right hand when he tried and failed to prevent his brother shooting himself. On top of that, his self absorbed parents, who seem to lack any empathy at all for what he has been suffering, have left him on his own for the Christmas holidays. It's at this point in his life that he meets Edith, a married woman in her thirties. His kindness to her at a time when she most needs it, changes both of them and has repercussions down the years.
Catherine Ryan Hyde has created a very special character in Anton. Not many people are as considerate and selfless as him, especially as a young man, but he feels very real and seems to possess an inner strength that drives him. His grandmother and uncle are also wonderful characters who save him from being destroyed by the neglect of his parents. Both romantic and suspenseful, and at times bittersweet, I had no idea where this novel would end up but it all made for a wonderful read.
With thanks to Lake Union Publishing and Netgalley for a copy to read
When we first meet Anton (who is going by the name of Anthony) at the age of 18, he has in the last seven months lost his beloved grandfather Anton, as well as his right hand when he tried and failed to prevent his brother shooting himself. On top of that, his self absorbed parents, who seem to lack any empathy at all for what he has been suffering, have left him on his own for the Christmas holidays. It's at this point in his life that he meets Edith, a married woman in her thirties. His kindness to her at a time when she most needs it, changes both of them and has repercussions down the years.
Catherine Ryan Hyde has created a very special character in Anton. Not many people are as considerate and selfless as him, especially as a young man, but he feels very real and seems to possess an inner strength that drives him. His grandmother and uncle are also wonderful characters who save him from being destroyed by the neglect of his parents. Both romantic and suspenseful, and at times bittersweet, I had no idea where this novel would end up but it all made for a wonderful read.
With thanks to Lake Union Publishing and Netgalley for a copy to read
December 9, 2020
3 stars.
After a devastating year which included the death of his younger brother and a life changing injury for himself, eighteen-year-old Anton is left alone for the Christmas holidays. Anton’s less-than-involved parents feel the need to getaway alone to repair their marriage after the family tragedy. Alone with his telescope on the balcony, Anton mistakenly witnesses something that he can’t ignore and forever changes his path in life.
This book has an extremely sad and somber feel to it. Anton is a lonely, vulnerable boy who lacks the proper support required to move through the devastation he faces. There are not many happy parts to this story and that weighed heavy on my overall reading experience.
The writing itself didn’t quite work for me for a couple reasons. The dialogue between Anton and the other main character felt unnatural from start to finish. I didn’t “buy into” what happened between them and therefore wasn’t feeling invested in the storyline. The pace was slow - the plot felt long and drawn out.
Overall, this was a unique and unforgettable story. Were there times that my heartstrings were pulled? Yes. However, it fell flat for me and lacked a true emotional connection.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me with an ARC!
After a devastating year which included the death of his younger brother and a life changing injury for himself, eighteen-year-old Anton is left alone for the Christmas holidays. Anton’s less-than-involved parents feel the need to getaway alone to repair their marriage after the family tragedy. Alone with his telescope on the balcony, Anton mistakenly witnesses something that he can’t ignore and forever changes his path in life.
This book has an extremely sad and somber feel to it. Anton is a lonely, vulnerable boy who lacks the proper support required to move through the devastation he faces. There are not many happy parts to this story and that weighed heavy on my overall reading experience.
The writing itself didn’t quite work for me for a couple reasons. The dialogue between Anton and the other main character felt unnatural from start to finish. I didn’t “buy into” what happened between them and therefore wasn’t feeling invested in the storyline. The pace was slow - the plot felt long and drawn out.
Overall, this was a unique and unforgettable story. Were there times that my heartstrings were pulled? Yes. However, it fell flat for me and lacked a true emotional connection.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me with an ARC!
December 11, 2020
Big sigh!! I should probably leave my review to just that! But...
This is my first book from the author, and I have heard some great things about her book, and I wanted to love this one, however, I couldn't buy into any part of this story.
I expected this to be an emotional read, but I didn't find the characters convincing enough to spark any emotion from me. Catherine Ryan Hyde delivers us a gut-wrenching punch with Anton's brother's tragic death that left Anton physically and emotionally wounded. This should have opened up some depth to Anton's characters and the dynamics within his family; however, it never went anywhere. It felt like more of a plot device to set up the romance to the story rather than developing an emotional pull to Anton.
Likeable and unlikeable characters are some of the most interesting parts of a story for me. There are likeable and unlikeable characters, but it felt like they were written to be just that. Boring!!! I think we were expected to like or dislike them, and I never understood their motivations or behavior.
I wish I had more positive things to say about this one, but I am struggling here with that.
I received a copy from the publisher through NG
Side note~ a poor representation for mental health
This is my first book from the author, and I have heard some great things about her book, and I wanted to love this one, however, I couldn't buy into any part of this story.
I expected this to be an emotional read, but I didn't find the characters convincing enough to spark any emotion from me. Catherine Ryan Hyde delivers us a gut-wrenching punch with Anton's brother's tragic death that left Anton physically and emotionally wounded. This should have opened up some depth to Anton's characters and the dynamics within his family; however, it never went anywhere. It felt like more of a plot device to set up the romance to the story rather than developing an emotional pull to Anton.
Likeable and unlikeable characters are some of the most interesting parts of a story for me. There are likeable and unlikeable characters, but it felt like they were written to be just that. Boring!!! I think we were expected to like or dislike them, and I never understood their motivations or behavior.
I wish I had more positive things to say about this one, but I am struggling here with that.
I received a copy from the publisher through NG
Side note~ a poor representation for mental health
December 9, 2020
This one tossed me about quite a bit.
I pondered on the fact that you are free to make decisions. But it is only you that must live with the consequences. And, at the same time, we are often at the receiving end of other's choices as well. Choices that leave deadly indelible marks on our own souls until our last breath.
It's 1965 in New York and Anton is facing the reality that his parents have booked a flight to South America. Not unusual. Oh, but it is. It's Christmas and these two bright, shining examples of parental love can't wait to get the heck outta Dodge. Leaving an eighteen year old son alone during the holidays never occured to these two escape artists. If they stay, they have to deal. Not happenin'.
And so Anton sits amidst the wreckage of his life. He recently lost his beloved grandfather whom he adored. And in the mix of that is the reality that his brother Greg died in a tragic accident causing Anton to lose his right hand four months ago. He aches physically and his spirit is inconsolable.
The only consolation that he has is the telescope that his parents bought him as they made their mad dash out of the apartment. While trying to adjust the focus and the position with one working hand, Anton comes upon the view of his neighbor's apartment across the street. A woman is being beaten by her husband. Anton must figure out a way to rescue this woman. And this is where we will meet Edith who will have a profound affect on Anton for years to come.
Can we ever change gears once the course of life is in motion? That's what is front and center in My Name Is Anton. Catherine Ryan Hyde presents a brilliant storyline that begins with the weight of grief and the inertia that follows. I was captivated with her choice of characters and her superb descriptors. I was heading toward a full-out 5 star review. But then Ryan Hyde takes us into the landscape of a wilting soap opera in the final chapters. It may not affect you similarly to that degree as we reached closure. I hit the 3.5 buzzer and rounded up to 4 stars because of the stellar beginning.
I hope that you will reach for this one. No one portrays complicated and unpredictable relationships like Catherine Ryan Hyde. You'll be grabbed at the onset. Just coast on cruise-control as we drift to calmer waters at the ending.
I pondered on the fact that you are free to make decisions. But it is only you that must live with the consequences. And, at the same time, we are often at the receiving end of other's choices as well. Choices that leave deadly indelible marks on our own souls until our last breath.
It's 1965 in New York and Anton is facing the reality that his parents have booked a flight to South America. Not unusual. Oh, but it is. It's Christmas and these two bright, shining examples of parental love can't wait to get the heck outta Dodge. Leaving an eighteen year old son alone during the holidays never occured to these two escape artists. If they stay, they have to deal. Not happenin'.
And so Anton sits amidst the wreckage of his life. He recently lost his beloved grandfather whom he adored. And in the mix of that is the reality that his brother Greg died in a tragic accident causing Anton to lose his right hand four months ago. He aches physically and his spirit is inconsolable.
The only consolation that he has is the telescope that his parents bought him as they made their mad dash out of the apartment. While trying to adjust the focus and the position with one working hand, Anton comes upon the view of his neighbor's apartment across the street. A woman is being beaten by her husband. Anton must figure out a way to rescue this woman. And this is where we will meet Edith who will have a profound affect on Anton for years to come.
Can we ever change gears once the course of life is in motion? That's what is front and center in My Name Is Anton. Catherine Ryan Hyde presents a brilliant storyline that begins with the weight of grief and the inertia that follows. I was captivated with her choice of characters and her superb descriptors. I was heading toward a full-out 5 star review. But then Ryan Hyde takes us into the landscape of a wilting soap opera in the final chapters. It may not affect you similarly to that degree as we reached closure. I hit the 3.5 buzzer and rounded up to 4 stars because of the stellar beginning.
I hope that you will reach for this one. No one portrays complicated and unpredictable relationships like Catherine Ryan Hyde. You'll be grabbed at the onset. Just coast on cruise-control as we drift to calmer waters at the ending.
July 21, 2021
3★
“‘They said you had no physical injuries and no sign of a concussion. So then what happened, Anton? Can you tell me what happened?’
Anton lay quietly for a moment, wondering why he had no memory of people talking to him. Then he said, ‘I think I broke.’”
It’s not surprising that he broke. What is surprising is that he didn’t break earlier. In fact, I’d say it’s unrealistic. Anton is an 18-year old boy who’s suffered a terrible tragedy just this year. But for some reason, when his parents asked if he’s okay, he said yes. And they believed him? Or pretended to?
His mother is now trying to wake him up early to have a very rushed “early Christmas” while there is a taxi waiting to take her and his father to the airport to fly to South America for a few weeks. He’s sleepy and doesn’t want to get up just to see them go and leave him home alone.
“She had a taut look of disapproval on her face, as if she preferred he ignore the situation. Well, she did prefer that. He knew it from experience. Ignoring situations was her number one life skill.“
There’s the reason he said yes, he’s okay. He’s an 18-year-old kid who is not likely to be confiding in a mother like that. Both she and his father are uninteresting caricatures of cold-hearted parents. They take off and leave him home alone with his brand new telescope for Christmas. At least there’s that.
He sets it up on the balcony of their apartment, and as he’s trying to balance it, it lowers down and is focused on a window across the street. Cue the music for Rear Window!
Of course, he spots a lovely young woman being treated violently by a man, presumably her husband or partner. He feels he’s intruding, but like anyone, he can’t help wanting to keep an eye on things.
“He wanted to position his telescope to look through her window. Simply to see her. To watch her performing the simplest daily tasks. To rememorize her long, straight nose and wavy auburn hair, so he could see them clearly behind his closed eyes again. He wanted this with a surprising fever, like an itch on the one part of his back he couldn’t reach to scratch. It felt like a compulsion. Something deeply hard to battle.”
Anthony is a good guy who takes after his grandparents more than his parents, so he feels guilty about spying. He’s named for his late grandfather, Anton, but has always used the “less foreign” name of Anthony instead.
He adores his Grandma Marion, and is very fond of his great-uncle Gregor. I liked them, too. They seemed more genuinely interested in Anton’s well-being than his parents did. They also seemed a bit real. Anthony looks like his grandfather, especially when he puts on his grandfather's favourite fedora. He decides perhaps he should acknowledge his real name after all.
But he's struggling alone. When he meets the young woman and they talk, it's obvious he falls for her instantly.
“He glanced up, and their eyes locked for a moment. Anthony found it difficult to hold her gaze. And scary. As though someone were slicing into him for a better look. But he held it anyway, because it felt like something important. Like something too good to throw away.”
He is determined to help her escape her violent husband. She disappears. Life goes on. All of the following events were just as I imagined they would be, the ups, the downs, the complications. There were just no surprises for me, but there was a lot of philosophising.
To me, this seems like an excellent read for a quite young YA audience who might benefit from some of the truisms that may be new to them. And they may benefit from the little insertions here and there about the stars and the universe (remember the telescope?) that Anton sometimes talks about.
I know Hyde is a very popular author, and her Seven Perfect Things was cute, but I’m obviously not her target market. Her target market will love this, I'm sure!
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the preview copy from which I’ve quoted.
“‘They said you had no physical injuries and no sign of a concussion. So then what happened, Anton? Can you tell me what happened?’
Anton lay quietly for a moment, wondering why he had no memory of people talking to him. Then he said, ‘I think I broke.’”
It’s not surprising that he broke. What is surprising is that he didn’t break earlier. In fact, I’d say it’s unrealistic. Anton is an 18-year old boy who’s suffered a terrible tragedy just this year. But for some reason, when his parents asked if he’s okay, he said yes. And they believed him? Or pretended to?
His mother is now trying to wake him up early to have a very rushed “early Christmas” while there is a taxi waiting to take her and his father to the airport to fly to South America for a few weeks. He’s sleepy and doesn’t want to get up just to see them go and leave him home alone.
“She had a taut look of disapproval on her face, as if she preferred he ignore the situation. Well, she did prefer that. He knew it from experience. Ignoring situations was her number one life skill.“
There’s the reason he said yes, he’s okay. He’s an 18-year-old kid who is not likely to be confiding in a mother like that. Both she and his father are uninteresting caricatures of cold-hearted parents. They take off and leave him home alone with his brand new telescope for Christmas. At least there’s that.
He sets it up on the balcony of their apartment, and as he’s trying to balance it, it lowers down and is focused on a window across the street. Cue the music for Rear Window!
Of course, he spots a lovely young woman being treated violently by a man, presumably her husband or partner. He feels he’s intruding, but like anyone, he can’t help wanting to keep an eye on things.
“He wanted to position his telescope to look through her window. Simply to see her. To watch her performing the simplest daily tasks. To rememorize her long, straight nose and wavy auburn hair, so he could see them clearly behind his closed eyes again. He wanted this with a surprising fever, like an itch on the one part of his back he couldn’t reach to scratch. It felt like a compulsion. Something deeply hard to battle.”
Anthony is a good guy who takes after his grandparents more than his parents, so he feels guilty about spying. He’s named for his late grandfather, Anton, but has always used the “less foreign” name of Anthony instead.
He adores his Grandma Marion, and is very fond of his great-uncle Gregor. I liked them, too. They seemed more genuinely interested in Anton’s well-being than his parents did. They also seemed a bit real. Anthony looks like his grandfather, especially when he puts on his grandfather's favourite fedora. He decides perhaps he should acknowledge his real name after all.
But he's struggling alone. When he meets the young woman and they talk, it's obvious he falls for her instantly.
“He glanced up, and their eyes locked for a moment. Anthony found it difficult to hold her gaze. And scary. As though someone were slicing into him for a better look. But he held it anyway, because it felt like something important. Like something too good to throw away.”
He is determined to help her escape her violent husband. She disappears. Life goes on. All of the following events were just as I imagined they would be, the ups, the downs, the complications. There were just no surprises for me, but there was a lot of philosophising.
To me, this seems like an excellent read for a quite young YA audience who might benefit from some of the truisms that may be new to them. And they may benefit from the little insertions here and there about the stars and the universe (remember the telescope?) that Anton sometimes talks about.
I know Hyde is a very popular author, and her Seven Perfect Things was cute, but I’m obviously not her target market. Her target market will love this, I'm sure!
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the preview copy from which I’ve quoted.
July 1, 2023
My Name Is Anton
The first love that lasted for a whole life.
It is a good book about love, unselfishness and family.
When Anton was 18 he saw a woman in the window across the street. And saw her husband abusing her. He found her and helped her to escape from that bad marriage only to fall in love and for years to think about her.
After 15 years they meet again and build a family.
The story is a bit too unreal to be true, but what we can know about other people? This is a story about what we all want to be true in our own lives.
The first love that lasted for a whole life.
It is a good book about love, unselfishness and family.
When Anton was 18 he saw a woman in the window across the street. And saw her husband abusing her. He found her and helped her to escape from that bad marriage only to fall in love and for years to think about her.
After 15 years they meet again and build a family.
The story is a bit too unreal to be true, but what we can know about other people? This is a story about what we all want to be true in our own lives.
December 1, 2020
3.5 stars
This one opens in 1965 and we meet Anton Addison-Rice, a young man of 18 who has faced his share of tragedy already with the death of his brother. Anton has not had the benefit of much help healing from this tragedy, nor have his parents. The writer does a great job writing about mental health in this book and I appreciate that we have made some progress in this area since 1965.
Anton is alone over the holidays and catches an encounter with a neighbor and he worries that she is in danger. He later befriends the woman, and they enjoy an intense friendship for a short time before Edith leaves town.
Anton has a great relationship with his grandmother and uncle and I really enjoyed that dynamic of a supportive family. The second half of the novel is the return of Edith to Anton’s life. I must say that I never quite connected with their romance and I felt distant from these two characters.
Catherine Ryan Hyde is a prolific writer (30+ books) and I’ve just started reading her books, this was the third for me. I find that she is not afraid to tackle tough issues and her writing is very easy to read. Her characters are flawed realistic ones. I enjoyed the other two books of hers that I’ve read a bit more than this one.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing for an early copy of this one to read and review.
This one opens in 1965 and we meet Anton Addison-Rice, a young man of 18 who has faced his share of tragedy already with the death of his brother. Anton has not had the benefit of much help healing from this tragedy, nor have his parents. The writer does a great job writing about mental health in this book and I appreciate that we have made some progress in this area since 1965.
Anton is alone over the holidays and catches an encounter with a neighbor and he worries that she is in danger. He later befriends the woman, and they enjoy an intense friendship for a short time before Edith leaves town.
Anton has a great relationship with his grandmother and uncle and I really enjoyed that dynamic of a supportive family. The second half of the novel is the return of Edith to Anton’s life. I must say that I never quite connected with their romance and I felt distant from these two characters.
Catherine Ryan Hyde is a prolific writer (30+ books) and I’ve just started reading her books, this was the third for me. I find that she is not afraid to tackle tough issues and her writing is very easy to read. Her characters are flawed realistic ones. I enjoyed the other two books of hers that I’ve read a bit more than this one.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing for an early copy of this one to read and review.
December 14, 2020
Anton is a very unlucky 18 year old young man. In the span of a year, he lost his grandfather, his brother and his right hand. One day his luck changes when Edith comes into his life under unusual circumstances. She is 15 years his senior and in an abusive marriage. She finds a safe haven with Anton who gives her the courage to leave her husband. During their week together, Anton is forever changed, but Edith needs to flee to protect them both.
Many years pass until they meet again. This story is what follows their chance meeting. This book had me reeling from so many emotions. It's a wonderful love story but has the stress of dysfunctional families woven into it, a glimpse into real life, not a sugar coated perfect life.
4.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Many years pass until they meet again. This story is what follows their chance meeting. This book had me reeling from so many emotions. It's a wonderful love story but has the stress of dysfunctional families woven into it, a glimpse into real life, not a sugar coated perfect life.
4.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2020
Three Stars
The first book I ever read by Catherine Ryan Hyde was Stay which hit me like a ton of bricks it was so great. Nothing I've read from her since then has measured up to that high bar. I thought I was in for a treat because this book began in 1965, an era I just love reading about. The lead character Anton is an eighteen year old easy to have a lot of compassion for. He lives in an apartment building with cold and uncaring parents. Just months ago he lost his right hand trying to stop his older brother from taking his life. As if this doesn't sound like enough tragedy, his parents decide to go off on a trip during the Christmas holidays, leaving Anton to fend for himself alone in the apartment. But before the parents walk out the door to catch their taxi, they insist that Anton open up his Christmas present. It's the big telescope he's been asking for.
After the parents leave Anton tries setting up the telescope on his balcony to test it out, but finds it difficult with his still healing right amputated hand. The scope abruptly swings down and focuses in on a room in the apartment across the street. To Anton's utter horror, he witnesses a beautiful young woman being assaulted by her husband. He calls the police, but still can't get the incident and the woman out of his mind. The next day he ventures into that apartment building, trying to locate which exact unit this young woman lives in. He pretends to be taking a survey, and he finds himself face to face with Edith, who is hiding a black eye with her long hair. On another day he follows her to a nearby sandwich shop and she joins him at table. It turns out that Edith is 33, 15 years older than Anton. They begin meeting for lunch at the shop every day. Anton tells Edith that if her husband ever hurts her again and she needs somewhere to escape, he will be there for her. It doesn't take very long for that to happen.
So when Edith shows up at his apartment door looking for refuge, Anton's savoring her presence. You see, Anton loves Edith. He will do anything to protect her and do what's best for her, even if it doesn't make him personally happy. Because that's what love is all about. He lets Edith sleep in his bedroom while he camps out on the living room couch, and they enjoy simple pleasures such as watching Groucho Marx movies, making popcorn, and playing monopoly. They have to hunker down in the apartment and not be seen by the abusive husband across the street. The parents are coming back from their vacation in two weeks, which is when Edith will leave and catch a train to parts unknown. She won't tell Anton where's she going to protect him...in case he ever has the misfortune to run into her ex-husband.
This is just the launch pad for the rest of the story, as it leaps to 15 years later and finally ends up in the year 2000. Unfortunately, the story lost its charm for me as it projected into the future. This book explores the boundaries of true love and society's view of an older woman being with a younger man.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing who provided an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
The first book I ever read by Catherine Ryan Hyde was Stay which hit me like a ton of bricks it was so great. Nothing I've read from her since then has measured up to that high bar. I thought I was in for a treat because this book began in 1965, an era I just love reading about. The lead character Anton is an eighteen year old easy to have a lot of compassion for. He lives in an apartment building with cold and uncaring parents. Just months ago he lost his right hand trying to stop his older brother from taking his life. As if this doesn't sound like enough tragedy, his parents decide to go off on a trip during the Christmas holidays, leaving Anton to fend for himself alone in the apartment. But before the parents walk out the door to catch their taxi, they insist that Anton open up his Christmas present. It's the big telescope he's been asking for.
After the parents leave Anton tries setting up the telescope on his balcony to test it out, but finds it difficult with his still healing right amputated hand. The scope abruptly swings down and focuses in on a room in the apartment across the street. To Anton's utter horror, he witnesses a beautiful young woman being assaulted by her husband. He calls the police, but still can't get the incident and the woman out of his mind. The next day he ventures into that apartment building, trying to locate which exact unit this young woman lives in. He pretends to be taking a survey, and he finds himself face to face with Edith, who is hiding a black eye with her long hair. On another day he follows her to a nearby sandwich shop and she joins him at table. It turns out that Edith is 33, 15 years older than Anton. They begin meeting for lunch at the shop every day. Anton tells Edith that if her husband ever hurts her again and she needs somewhere to escape, he will be there for her. It doesn't take very long for that to happen.
So when Edith shows up at his apartment door looking for refuge, Anton's savoring her presence. You see, Anton loves Edith. He will do anything to protect her and do what's best for her, even if it doesn't make him personally happy. Because that's what love is all about. He lets Edith sleep in his bedroom while he camps out on the living room couch, and they enjoy simple pleasures such as watching Groucho Marx movies, making popcorn, and playing monopoly. They have to hunker down in the apartment and not be seen by the abusive husband across the street. The parents are coming back from their vacation in two weeks, which is when Edith will leave and catch a train to parts unknown. She won't tell Anton where's she going to protect him...in case he ever has the misfortune to run into her ex-husband.
This is just the launch pad for the rest of the story, as it leaps to 15 years later and finally ends up in the year 2000. Unfortunately, the story lost its charm for me as it projected into the future. This book explores the boundaries of true love and society's view of an older woman being with a younger man.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing who provided an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
August 1, 2020
Once again, Ms. Hyde tackles difficult subjects in an accessible, non-depressing way. This time, it’s mental illness, bad parents, and domestic violence.
Anton has survived two life-changing, terrible things at the age of 17. Now he’s 18, and his parents leave him alone over the holidays just months after these awful events have happened. He sees a woman being abused by her husband in an apartment across the way, and this will change him forever.
I liked that I genuinely had no idea where this novel was going to take me, and I liked the inspirational message about what love actually is—caring about the other person more than yourself. Several times Hyde writes what the character wants to say but didn’t. The only thing off for me in this novel was that sometimes I felt a little bit of distance from Anton. I didn’t fully feel I understood him because it felt like his emotions were being reported to me rather than me experiencing them for myself.
One of the many things I like about Hyde’s work is that it’s not difficult reading.
I teared up during this novel, and I appreciate what an uplifting author Hyde is. Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES DECEMEBER 1, 2020.
Anton has survived two life-changing, terrible things at the age of 17. Now he’s 18, and his parents leave him alone over the holidays just months after these awful events have happened. He sees a woman being abused by her husband in an apartment across the way, and this will change him forever.
I liked that I genuinely had no idea where this novel was going to take me, and I liked the inspirational message about what love actually is—caring about the other person more than yourself. Several times Hyde writes what the character wants to say but didn’t. The only thing off for me in this novel was that sometimes I felt a little bit of distance from Anton. I didn’t fully feel I understood him because it felt like his emotions were being reported to me rather than me experiencing them for myself.
One of the many things I like about Hyde’s work is that it’s not difficult reading.
I teared up during this novel, and I appreciate what an uplifting author Hyde is. Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES DECEMEBER 1, 2020.
December 13, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
Every once in and awhile, I want to sit down and just get lost in a literary love story, I found it last night when I should have been sleeping. Yet again, I have fallen victim to the Catherine Ryan Hyde magic! Anton and Edith captured not only my heart but also my imagination. As the story glides from their first meeting in the 1960s to their reunion in the 1980s and so on, the hours appeared to stand still and the sleepy feeling I have today is well worth it.
Both Anton and Edith have faced their share of tragedies and hardships and despite their age difference find a love that is everlasting. A feel-good holiday read.
#MyNameisAnton #NetGalley
Goodreads review published 13/12/20
Publication Date 01/12/20
Every once in and awhile, I want to sit down and just get lost in a literary love story, I found it last night when I should have been sleeping. Yet again, I have fallen victim to the Catherine Ryan Hyde magic! Anton and Edith captured not only my heart but also my imagination. As the story glides from their first meeting in the 1960s to their reunion in the 1980s and so on, the hours appeared to stand still and the sleepy feeling I have today is well worth it.
Both Anton and Edith have faced their share of tragedies and hardships and despite their age difference find a love that is everlasting. A feel-good holiday read.
#MyNameisAnton #NetGalley
Goodreads review published 13/12/20
Publication Date 01/12/20
November 23, 2020
Seventeen-year-old Anton Addison-Rice was still traumatized, seven months after his brother Greg died, and Anton had to have his right hand amputated. When his parents left for South America, they left him a telescope as an early Christmas gift; it was through this telescope he saw the woman in danger. Fumbling with the scope, using his one hand was difficult – he still didn’t have things down to a fine art. But if he had, he wouldn’t have seen the domestic violence occurring just across the way. Meeting Edith, finding out her name and circumstances, giving her his name and address – all part of the process which would form a big part of Anton’s future…
With Anton giving Edith shelter for the few days over Christmas, the woman he came to know was caring and selfless. And when she said she had to leave the area, get right away from her abusive husband, she also said she wouldn’t tell anyone, not even Anton, where she was going. And so it came to be – Edith left in the early hours of Boxing Day. Anton was broken, Uncle Gregor was the person he turned to. What would be in Anton’s future? College? Sure. Marriage? Doubtful. Peace of mind? Maybe. His main question was – would he ever see Edith again?
I have a new favourite author! Whatever I read by Catherine Ryan Hyde is perfect. It’s the best pick me up I’ve found; I always know she’ll give me a read I can become involved in; that I’ll love. My Name is Anton was no different. Heartache, heartbreak, love, sacrifice, and forgiveness runs through this novel and it was easy to be alongside each character, feeling their emotions. Grandma Marion and Uncle Gregor were two exceptional characters, along with Anton and Edith, and Hannah 😊 Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for my honest review.
With Anton giving Edith shelter for the few days over Christmas, the woman he came to know was caring and selfless. And when she said she had to leave the area, get right away from her abusive husband, she also said she wouldn’t tell anyone, not even Anton, where she was going. And so it came to be – Edith left in the early hours of Boxing Day. Anton was broken, Uncle Gregor was the person he turned to. What would be in Anton’s future? College? Sure. Marriage? Doubtful. Peace of mind? Maybe. His main question was – would he ever see Edith again?
I have a new favourite author! Whatever I read by Catherine Ryan Hyde is perfect. It’s the best pick me up I’ve found; I always know she’ll give me a read I can become involved in; that I’ll love. My Name is Anton was no different. Heartache, heartbreak, love, sacrifice, and forgiveness runs through this novel and it was easy to be alongside each character, feeling their emotions. Grandma Marion and Uncle Gregor were two exceptional characters, along with Anton and Edith, and Hannah 😊 Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for my honest review.
November 12, 2020
Where to begin??? I truly enjoyed this book. It was a little slow to get moving but after a few chapters it flowed nicely. The main character Anton was just an all around likeable person who had initially, a very tragic life. Living an equally tragic life, we were introduced to Edith, also very likeable. The story basically begins with how the two meet, under much less than perfect circumstances. It goes on to show us how they are separated and then reunited. This is a book about love, loss, family, abuse, suicide, mental illness, tragedy, and happy endings. Yes, this book has all the feels.
I would recommend to my friends and family and anyone who enjoys contemporary fiction.
Special thanks to #NetGalley and the publishers for giving me an advanced review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I would recommend to my friends and family and anyone who enjoys contemporary fiction.
Special thanks to #NetGalley and the publishers for giving me an advanced review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 13, 2025
“My Name Is Anton” captured me right from the first page and especially the character Anton.
Catherine Ryan Hyde you have never disappointed me with your incredible talent as a highly regarded author.
Catherine Ryan Hyde you have never disappointed me with your incredible talent as a highly regarded author.
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June 22, 20203.5 stars
Anton Rice has experienced a terrible thing and as he is reeling from it, we learn of his parents who are so consumed with their own issues that they are not present in Anton's life. They leave him at the holiday time and go off to South America to try and salvage their marriage and Anton, just eighteen years old is left alone. He is watched over by his loving grandmother and a dear great uncle who seem to bring love and understanding into his life.
But soon, Anton's life is about to change after witnessing a case of spousal abuse through the eyes of a telescope he received as a Christmas gift. He manages to meet the woman, Edith, senior in age to him by many years, and falls in love for the first time.
He assists her and Edith finally realizes that staying in her marriage will not be what she desires. Her husband's abuse has escalated and as Anton sends her away he is in turmoil emotionally. Can he survive being separated from the one who he loves? The story progresses through the years and we get to know an older Anton and Edith connected by what once brought them together, the vision of love.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this love story that transcends the years and time itself.
Anton Rice has experienced a terrible thing and as he is reeling from it, we learn of his parents who are so consumed with their own issues that they are not present in Anton's life. They leave him at the holiday time and go off to South America to try and salvage their marriage and Anton, just eighteen years old is left alone. He is watched over by his loving grandmother and a dear great uncle who seem to bring love and understanding into his life.
But soon, Anton's life is about to change after witnessing a case of spousal abuse through the eyes of a telescope he received as a Christmas gift. He manages to meet the woman, Edith, senior in age to him by many years, and falls in love for the first time.
He assists her and Edith finally realizes that staying in her marriage will not be what she desires. Her husband's abuse has escalated and as Anton sends her away he is in turmoil emotionally. Can he survive being separated from the one who he loves? The story progresses through the years and we get to know an older Anton and Edith connected by what once brought them together, the vision of love.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this love story that transcends the years and time itself.
September 20, 2021
need to ponder this a few days.
'Updated today- 9/2021
Evidently, I forgot to return and write this review.
This book needs to be perused again for me to be fair.
'Updated today- 9/2021
Evidently, I forgot to return and write this review.
This book needs to be perused again for me to be fair.
December 15, 2020
Books written by Catherine Ryan Hide are richly written, making you feel like you are part of the family of characters. My Name is Anton is no exception.
The book begins in us feeling the life of young, Anton; a life painful, full of tragedy and loss. He meets Edith and his world is forever changed.
One of my favorite quotes from the book: “I’m not a fan of the concept of ‘getting over it.’ Makes loss sound like a brick-wall, and like somehow you’ll scramble over the top and drop down on the other side, and. Keep going and then it’s all behind you. “
The book is a beautiful character study based on life choices of unselfishness. Putting others before yourself and when the time is right to do so, because not everything and everyone in life is worthy. And as time moves on to span 55 years we see the main characters grow and, in Anton’s case, he welcomes strength and hurt with an open heart, knowing that is how we become strong enough to handle whatever life’s dishes are ordered for us.
I was sad when this book came to an end. I wanted more. More smiles and tears, as a few escaped from me during certain, special moments.
Highly recommended.
The book begins in us feeling the life of young, Anton; a life painful, full of tragedy and loss. He meets Edith and his world is forever changed.
One of my favorite quotes from the book: “I’m not a fan of the concept of ‘getting over it.’ Makes loss sound like a brick-wall, and like somehow you’ll scramble over the top and drop down on the other side, and. Keep going and then it’s all behind you. “
The book is a beautiful character study based on life choices of unselfishness. Putting others before yourself and when the time is right to do so, because not everything and everyone in life is worthy. And as time moves on to span 55 years we see the main characters grow and, in Anton’s case, he welcomes strength and hurt with an open heart, knowing that is how we become strong enough to handle whatever life’s dishes are ordered for us.
I was sad when this book came to an end. I wanted more. More smiles and tears, as a few escaped from me during certain, special moments.
Highly recommended.
November 9, 2020
There's a great comfort in finding an author you can rely on to deliver a terrific reading experience time after time. I'm happy to say I find Catherine Ryan Hyde to be exactly that sort of author. What I've liked most about her books is the way she fills her characters and stories with goodness even whilst delving into meaningful, deep and sometimes dark topics. I also like the way they challenge me to think on whichever theme she introduces. My Name Is Anton was no exception and I look forward to working my way through her other titles.
In this novel I'll admit Anton went pretty close to being too good, too selfless to seem real although his parents definitely brought out the worst in him providing the balance. I adored the way he cared for then loved Edith, the sacrifices he made to keep her in his life. There wasn't a single thing he wouldn't have done for this woman, the true love of his life. I very much enjoyed his relationship with his grandmother and the life lessons he learnt from her. Similarly the support he got from extended family members when his parents were less than supportive.
This book contained themes that ranged from domestic violence, attitudes towards mental illness, suicide and adoption. Like I said, some heavy subject matter yet this remains in my memory as a lovely story.
Thanks to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity of reading this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review which it was my pleasure to provide.
In this novel I'll admit Anton went pretty close to being too good, too selfless to seem real although his parents definitely brought out the worst in him providing the balance. I adored the way he cared for then loved Edith, the sacrifices he made to keep her in his life. There wasn't a single thing he wouldn't have done for this woman, the true love of his life. I very much enjoyed his relationship with his grandmother and the life lessons he learnt from her. Similarly the support he got from extended family members when his parents were less than supportive.
This book contained themes that ranged from domestic violence, attitudes towards mental illness, suicide and adoption. Like I said, some heavy subject matter yet this remains in my memory as a lovely story.
Thanks to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity of reading this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review which it was my pleasure to provide.
November 28, 2020
In 1965, two weeks before Christmas Anton Addison-Rice’s parent's Abel and Vera decide to go on a holiday to South America and leave him home alone. You really question his parent’s decision making, his brother Greg and grandfather Anton had both passed away that year and Anton had suffered a life changing injury. Fortunately his grandmother Marion and great-uncle Gregor both check on him and make sure he’s alright.
Anton notices an incident happening across the road from his parent’s apartment a lady Edith is being assaulted by her husband and Anton is determined to help. One night a battered Edith flees her husband, out of desperation she knocks on Anton’s door and he offers her a place to stay for a couple of weeks. Anton and Edith are both lonely, they quickly become friends, Edith and Anton’s grandmother Marion are worried that he’s developing feelings for Edith; she’s fifteen years older than him and married.
Anton's only 18; he’s the most caring, kind, sensitive young man and Edith understands she needs to leave and not tell Anton where she’s going. I must admit at one stage I did wonder where Catherine Ryan Hyde was going with this books plot, but it worked and it's a thought provoking story looking at life's challenges and from two very different perspectives. I received a copy of My Name is Anton in exchange for an honest review and four stars from me.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
Anton notices an incident happening across the road from his parent’s apartment a lady Edith is being assaulted by her husband and Anton is determined to help. One night a battered Edith flees her husband, out of desperation she knocks on Anton’s door and he offers her a place to stay for a couple of weeks. Anton and Edith are both lonely, they quickly become friends, Edith and Anton’s grandmother Marion are worried that he’s developing feelings for Edith; she’s fifteen years older than him and married.
Anton's only 18; he’s the most caring, kind, sensitive young man and Edith understands she needs to leave and not tell Anton where she’s going. I must admit at one stage I did wonder where Catherine Ryan Hyde was going with this books plot, but it worked and it's a thought provoking story looking at life's challenges and from two very different perspectives. I received a copy of My Name is Anton in exchange for an honest review and four stars from me.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
February 4, 2021
A year after his brother Greg died and Anton lost his hand in a tragic situation, Anton sees a neighbour in a danger. The woman is Edith. Eighteen year old Anton is determined to help Edith leave her abusive marriage. Though there is 15 years between them in age, an unlikely friendship ensues. For Anton it turns into something far more. Can he let go what he most wants to keep Edith, safe?
Anton is the most beautiful selfless honest man, showing that being a man has nothing to do with age but everything to do with character and integrity. His parents, on the other hand are two of the most self absorbed people out. Anton’s grandmother Marion and his great uncle Gregor offer the family support Anton needs.
This book got me in from the start and I simply wanted to keep reading every chance I got. In what I would call an interactive reading experience, it had all my emotions involved, anger, tears, moments of joy, all came to the surface eliciting comments from my darling husband about the sniffles and associated noises as events transpired.
Catherine Ryan Hyde has fast become one of my favourite authors. Anton, is truly one of the loveliest characters this author has created. A book to engage, challenge perceptions and give plenty to think about. I adored it. Another absolute winner from this talented author who knows how to write a compelling story. A highly recommended read.
Anton is the most beautiful selfless honest man, showing that being a man has nothing to do with age but everything to do with character and integrity. His parents, on the other hand are two of the most self absorbed people out. Anton’s grandmother Marion and his great uncle Gregor offer the family support Anton needs.
This book got me in from the start and I simply wanted to keep reading every chance I got. In what I would call an interactive reading experience, it had all my emotions involved, anger, tears, moments of joy, all came to the surface eliciting comments from my darling husband about the sniffles and associated noises as events transpired.
Catherine Ryan Hyde has fast become one of my favourite authors. Anton, is truly one of the loveliest characters this author has created. A book to engage, challenge perceptions and give plenty to think about. I adored it. Another absolute winner from this talented author who knows how to write a compelling story. A highly recommended read.
June 5, 2020
This is on NetGalley right now as of June 2 as READ NOW if you want to get it.
Another fabulous book by the great Catherine Ryan Hyde. This book spans over 55 years and it’s just wonderful, as is every single book she writes!!!! Heartwarming and just amazing from beginning to the end!!! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. Highly recommend!!
Another fabulous book by the great Catherine Ryan Hyde. This book spans over 55 years and it’s just wonderful, as is every single book she writes!!!! Heartwarming and just amazing from beginning to the end!!! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. Highly recommend!!
December 7, 2020
4.5 Unselfish Love Stars
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
Catherine Ryan Hyde was a new-to-me author. I am someone who doesn't gravitate to angsty reads. However, this one caught my eye and I am glad it did. It spans a great many years, hits on the differences yet sameness of times.
The book spans quite a few years, so it is important to understand what we may think now is possible wasn't necessarily easy during the beginning of this story.
It looks at how being parents doesn't make you automatically capable of being good at it. How it is always the kids that have to deal with the ways they have been brought up..and only if they are lucky to have some allies in their corner to show them how things are supposed to be...do they come out ok.
This is a romance book but not in the regular way... more of a mental game with heavy life lessons woven through. Worth the time.
My Name is Anton
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
Catherine Ryan Hyde was a new-to-me author. I am someone who doesn't gravitate to angsty reads. However, this one caught my eye and I am glad it did. It spans a great many years, hits on the differences yet sameness of times.
The book spans quite a few years, so it is important to understand what we may think now is possible wasn't necessarily easy during the beginning of this story.
It looks at how being parents doesn't make you automatically capable of being good at it. How it is always the kids that have to deal with the ways they have been brought up..and only if they are lucky to have some allies in their corner to show them how things are supposed to be...do they come out ok.
This is a romance book but not in the regular way... more of a mental game with heavy life lessons woven through. Worth the time.
My Name is Antonhttps://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 15, 2020
My Name Is Anton is a novel by award-winning American author, Catherine Ryan Hyde. After a truly horrible year in which eighteen-year-old Anton (call me Anthony) Addison-Rice loses his loving and beloved grandfather, his mentally-ill older brother and his own right hand, his parents take his “I’m OK” at face value and depart for a three-week South American vacation in early December, leaving him on his own.
Anthony is fiddling with his early Christmas present, a telescope, when he accidentally sees a young woman in an apartment across the road being physically abused by her husband. Over the next few days, he manages to find her, express his concern for her welfare, and offer the family’s apartment as a refuge should she need it.
She turns up, beaten again, in the middle of the night, and he promises to help her escape, while promptly falling in love with this woman theoretically old enough to be his mother. Sound advice from his cherished grandmother helps him understand what he must do if he loves her as much as she suspects he does: “What’s best for her, even if it doesn’t include me.”
He lets her go, and his heartbreak triggers the reaction to all the grief he has been suppressing. His recovery is aided by the words and actions of his wise great uncle, and he steps out into the world to live his life, but never forgets her parting words: “I love you too.” And then, one day, fifteen years later, he bumps into her on the train…
As with many of this author’s novels, this one is very much character-driven, and she gives those characters wise words and insightful observations and sound philosophies to deal with the challenges life throws at them. Ryan Hyde easily captures the era, from 1965 to the present day, and takes the opportunity to include two of her favourite diversions, star-gazing and horses, into this wonderfully moving love story.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing.
Anthony is fiddling with his early Christmas present, a telescope, when he accidentally sees a young woman in an apartment across the road being physically abused by her husband. Over the next few days, he manages to find her, express his concern for her welfare, and offer the family’s apartment as a refuge should she need it.
She turns up, beaten again, in the middle of the night, and he promises to help her escape, while promptly falling in love with this woman theoretically old enough to be his mother. Sound advice from his cherished grandmother helps him understand what he must do if he loves her as much as she suspects he does: “What’s best for her, even if it doesn’t include me.”
He lets her go, and his heartbreak triggers the reaction to all the grief he has been suppressing. His recovery is aided by the words and actions of his wise great uncle, and he steps out into the world to live his life, but never forgets her parting words: “I love you too.” And then, one day, fifteen years later, he bumps into her on the train…
As with many of this author’s novels, this one is very much character-driven, and she gives those characters wise words and insightful observations and sound philosophies to deal with the challenges life throws at them. Ryan Hyde easily captures the era, from 1965 to the present day, and takes the opportunity to include two of her favourite diversions, star-gazing and horses, into this wonderfully moving love story.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing.
August 17, 2020
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Dec. 1, 2020
In 1965, 18 year old Anton is coming to terms with a terribly tragedy that cost him his right hand, and his brother’s life. When he accidentally observes a neighbour being abused by her husband, he immediately feels the need to help so he offers her what he can- a safe place. While Edith shelters with Anton, the pair learn about each other, and Anton immediately knows she is the woman he wants to share his life with. Edith, however, is fifteen years his senior and fleeing a bad relationship, and she disappears out of Anton’s life, in hopes of starting over. When they reconnect many years later, completely accidentally, Anton is once again flooded with the same feelings for Edith. After overcoming tragedy, loss and grief over their many years apart, is there anything left of their former connection worth salvaging?
I have read three other novels by Catherine Ryan Hyde, and “My Name is Anton” is just as compelling and heart-wrenching as her previous ones. Hyde’s characters are endearing and innocent, and provide light and positivity into a world so desperately in need of both. I immediately connected with Anton, and admired his bravery and his strength, after dealing with so many tragic losses.
“My Name is Anton” is about romance, sure, but it’s also about mental illness, suicide, disability, parental neglect and spousal abuse. There are so many difficult subjects in this novel, yet Hyde still manages to tie them all together in an emotionally uplifting way. The relationship between Anton and Edith is uncomfortable and awkward, as Anton’s family (and the reader) come to terms with just how genuine the feelings are. There are many life lessons to be learned within Hyde’s pages.
I am not a romance reader in general, so the sappy, endearing, lovey-dovey parts were slower moving than I would’ve liked, but the beginning and the end were so charming that I couldn’t help but enjoy it.
Hyde manages to take a novel full of heavy subjects, and make it a light, yet entertaining and powerful read. Although I am very far behind (Hyde has more than thirty novels to her name, and I am only on my fourth) , I will definitely read anything Hyde releases (and hopefully I’ll get the chance to catch up on some of her others as well!) .
“My Name is Anton” is the perfect dose of positivity and hopefulness, which is desperately lacking in the world around us.
Expected publication date: Dec. 1, 2020
In 1965, 18 year old Anton is coming to terms with a terribly tragedy that cost him his right hand, and his brother’s life. When he accidentally observes a neighbour being abused by her husband, he immediately feels the need to help so he offers her what he can- a safe place. While Edith shelters with Anton, the pair learn about each other, and Anton immediately knows she is the woman he wants to share his life with. Edith, however, is fifteen years his senior and fleeing a bad relationship, and she disappears out of Anton’s life, in hopes of starting over. When they reconnect many years later, completely accidentally, Anton is once again flooded with the same feelings for Edith. After overcoming tragedy, loss and grief over their many years apart, is there anything left of their former connection worth salvaging?
I have read three other novels by Catherine Ryan Hyde, and “My Name is Anton” is just as compelling and heart-wrenching as her previous ones. Hyde’s characters are endearing and innocent, and provide light and positivity into a world so desperately in need of both. I immediately connected with Anton, and admired his bravery and his strength, after dealing with so many tragic losses.
“My Name is Anton” is about romance, sure, but it’s also about mental illness, suicide, disability, parental neglect and spousal abuse. There are so many difficult subjects in this novel, yet Hyde still manages to tie them all together in an emotionally uplifting way. The relationship between Anton and Edith is uncomfortable and awkward, as Anton’s family (and the reader) come to terms with just how genuine the feelings are. There are many life lessons to be learned within Hyde’s pages.
I am not a romance reader in general, so the sappy, endearing, lovey-dovey parts were slower moving than I would’ve liked, but the beginning and the end were so charming that I couldn’t help but enjoy it.
Hyde manages to take a novel full of heavy subjects, and make it a light, yet entertaining and powerful read. Although I am very far behind (Hyde has more than thirty novels to her name, and I am only on my fourth) , I will definitely read anything Hyde releases (and hopefully I’ll get the chance to catch up on some of her others as well!) .
“My Name is Anton” is the perfect dose of positivity and hopefulness, which is desperately lacking in the world around us.
May 29, 2020
I got this book last night and finished reading it this afternoon. In typical Catherine Ryan Hyde fashion, once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. Not because it was thrilling with many twists and turns like many books out there, but because I immersed myself in Anton's life. Catherine has a way of writing characters that are alive and make me really care about them. Do not miss this book! It's an amazing, sweet book about people's lives. It isn't out until December but you can preorder it now. Thank you Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for allowing me to read this ARC.
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