Here I Stand: A Novel

by Jessica Leed

A compelling tale about redemption, unlikely relationships and an unforeseen event that will stir your emotions and have you reflecting on what is most important in life.

Healing from the past is difficult. Especially when it has a way of following you everywhere you go.
New beginnings are often faced with challenges. But not in the way Sienna Henderson could have ever anticipated when she comes face to face with an unexpected truth that will change her life forever.

Genres: Contemporary, Fiction

290 pages, Paperback

First published November 3, 2020

About the author

Jessica Leed hails from Victoria, Australia, and has called the United States home since 2021. An elementary teacher, former dancer, and fitness professional, she now lives in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband and two beloved cats. Jessica finds joy in books, coffee, long walks, the beauty of autumn, and cooking hearty breakfasts.


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessicaleeda...
Instagram: @jessicaleedauthor

Reviews

[John K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered Jessica Leed's writing last year and it was refreshing to come across an up and coming young Australian author. Her approach and point of view draws you right in making it easy to associate with the characters and impossible to put the book down before you find out what happens with them.
Her second book did not disappoint, and her clever and balanced way of writing makes it easy to read it as a standalone but at the same time not repetitive for the ones who have read the first book. I was thoroughly impressed with how the characters develop and how the story plays out. It is full of twists and surprises, proving once again that she is not about clichés in her work. If there were any questions left hanging from the first book they are all resolved in this one but prepare to be surprised.
Jessica Leed is definitely a writer to look out for. Looking forward to her future work.

P.S. Although this is not a generic chick flick, prepare to have your emotional cords strung.

[Phyllis Krall · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heartwarming story about healing and discovering what is really important in life.

Since I didn’t read the first book in the series, I had a hard time understanding the story. It was still a compelling read that tugged at my emotions. I will certainly read the first book.

I received this Ebook from Kindle in exchange for an honest review.

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Review

A fantastic sequel to her first novel, author Jessica Leed has crafted yet another brilliant novel that is both emotional and gripping all at once. Sienna is a complex and memorable protagonist who takes the readers on a journey through some of life’s toughest moments.

The complex and interweaving storylines really did create an enriching narrative that instantly drew readers in, from the protagonist’s journey not only to let go of her past and the people in it, but to open herself up to new possibilities, but also the supporting characters who had an impact on Sienna and vice versa. The author has a way of writing that really paints a clear image in the reader’s minds, and each moment in the protagonist’s journey really tugged at the heartstrings as readers visualized the novel’s plot unfolding.

The Verdict

Evenly paced, well-written, and keeping the reader emotionally invested, author Jessica Leed’s “Here I Stand” is a must-read contemporary women’s fiction read of 2020. Engaging, heartbreaking, and heartwarming all at once, readers won’t be able to get enough of Sienna’s journey and the author’s amazing ability to draw the reader into the narrative wholeheartedly. If you haven’t yet been sure to grab your copy today!

[Tia · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Here I Stand" is about Sienna, a dance teacher and former ballerina, who begins her new life by returning to her hometown to work at her former school. She left an abusive boyfriend and is hopeful for a new start away from him. On her first day in her new place a neighbor Daniel comes to reschedule her after she drops some dishes and cuts her foot, he's such a sweet gentle guy but definitely not her type or could he be? Sienna is haunted emotionally by a student named Nolan and whether he was being abused by his Mom or not since he was removed from school in a questionable manner. Will she ever find out what happened to that sweet boy?

This is actually book two in the series but I had never read the previous book and had no idea until I read the author note at the end of the book, so I would say this could easily be a stand-alone read as well. I did enjoy reading about Sienna and Daniel, and felt it was enjoyable yet sometimes bittersweet.

[Anneliese Grassi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick easy read and although it was the second book in a series, I would have never known that until I read the author notes at the end of the book. I really felt for the main character. Struggling to have been supported by her family to achieve her dreams only to have them crushed by an injury, having a toxic relationship, and a so-so job. But when her life seems to have hit rock bottom, being able to pick up the pieces, move on, find forgiveness and happiness, all the while having compassion and caring for others really shows that hope and goodness does exist in this world.

Definitely a feel-good story that can be read as a stand-alone. Warning: it may tug at your heartstrings a bit.

I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I purchased this book to see how Sienna's story ended, and wasn't expecting this ending at all. Well written and draws the reader in more and more with every page. Hoping a third book is in the works?

[Kimberly Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading 9 Years I had to find out what happened to Sienna Henderson. I loved following her story, being a teacher myself I found it totally relatable. I’m also not usually one to cry whilst reading but this one tugged on my heart strings! Amazing writing yet again!

[Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to follow

[Beth Wienck · Rating 4 out of 5]

Feel good book

I am happy to review the Kindle ARC version I received from Goodreads. The message of the book was very positive. It was fun to see the relationship develop between Sienna and Daniel despite sadness and trials in each of their lives.

[Deanne Goh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved following the story of Sienna, and I could feel her heart break and joy throughout the pages.
Jessica has really brought her to life.

I look forward to reading more books by Jessica Leed.

[Colleen Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here I Stand is a captivating story following Sienna as she says goodbye to the past and finds an inner strength to forge out her new life. Great read, you won't want to put it down...

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartfelt and captivating story that will tug your heartstrings and stir your emotions. Well written book will engage each reader and maintain their interest until the very end.
Recommended 5 star read.

My thanks to goodreads and the book’s giveaway sponsors for the opportunity to obtain and read a copy of this book.

[Melissa Lavitte · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing book! Definitely a must read!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here I Stand was a very well written novel.I loved this story. Sienna is a beautiful character and it was compelling following her journey as she faced many challenges while trying to move on from her past.
A Heartwarming novel & easy to read.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book, it was so well written, making me feel like I was right there beside Sienna throughout her experiences in life. Jessica has cleverly written this book so that you can pick it up as a stand alone even tho it is the second book in a series. I loved following Sienna's journey and was very happy with the final outcome. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.

[Lauren Poulton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica’s much anticipated second novel did not disappoint. The story answered so many questions from the first book in the series, but equally it could be read as a stand-alone book. I couldn’t put it down at times! Warning: it’s a bit of a tear jerker!
Can’t wait to read the next novel from Jessica Leed!

[Amy Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautiful story. The author has a way of connecting you with the characters as though they are your friends. It sure was compelling, to say the least, and I look forward to reading Jessica's next one.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book very engaging. It was well written and took me on a ride. I felt as though I knew the characters deeply and left me wanting to go back and read Jessica's first book. This is a talented young author to keep your eyes on. I already look forward to her next book.

[Doreen Ashbrook · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting book, however, it seemed to lack direction. I liked the characters and the writing was good, but I kept waiting for something to happen.

[Kristen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This quick and easy read has a main character who tugs at your heartstrings- Sienna has been through many trials, and this story of her creating a space for herself is heartwarming.

[Sammy Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a novel or redemption and new beginnings. How we can overcome our past, and create a brighter future. Overall, a heartfelt contemporary. Would recommend!