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Blind Turn
In the aftermath of a fatal texting and driving accident, a mother and daughter must come to terms with the real meaning of forgiveness.
Liz Johnson single-handedly raised an exemplary daughter. Jessica is an honor-student, track star, and all-around good kid. So how could that same teenager be responsible for the death of the high school’s beloved football coach? This is Texas, where high school football ranks right up there with God, so while the legal battle wages, the public deals its own verdict.
Desperate for help, Liz turns to a lawyer whose affection she once rejected and attempts to play nice with her ex-husband. Jessica faces her angry peers and her own demons as she awaits a possible prison sentence for an accident she doesn’t remember.
"One of the few books in recent memory I was completely unable to put down, yet still wished I could read more slowly so it would never end. Achterberg writes with a seamless combination of aching sensitivity and a page-turning urgency. Easily one of the best books of any genre I’ve read this entire year."
-C.H. Armstrong, Author
Liz Johnson single-handedly raised an exemplary daughter. Jessica is an honor-student, track star, and all-around good kid. So how could that same teenager be responsible for the death of the high school’s beloved football coach? This is Texas, where high school football ranks right up there with God, so while the legal battle wages, the public deals its own verdict.
Desperate for help, Liz turns to a lawyer whose affection she once rejected and attempts to play nice with her ex-husband. Jessica faces her angry peers and her own demons as she awaits a possible prison sentence for an accident she doesn’t remember.
"One of the few books in recent memory I was completely unable to put down, yet still wished I could read more slowly so it would never end. Achterberg writes with a seamless combination of aching sensitivity and a page-turning urgency. Easily one of the best books of any genre I’ve read this entire year."
-C.H. Armstrong, Author
319 pages, Paperback
First published January 7, 2021
120 people are currently reading
3021 people want to read
About the author
Cara Sue Achterberg
9 books186 followersCara Achterberg writes smart women's fiction that book clubs love. She also writes memoirs about her adventures in dog rescue.
Cara is the co-founder of Who Will Let the Dogs Out, a non-profit that raises awareness and resources for homeless dogs and the heroes who fight for them. Learn more at WhoWillLetTheDogsOut.org.
Information on all her books, blogs, and upcoming appearances can be found at CaraWrites.com.
When not writing or weeding (which can sometimes be one and the same), Cara enjoys hiking, reading, visiting Virginia wineries, and growing pretty much anything, including her circle of friends.
You can keep up with Cara on Facebook (Cara Sue Achterberg, writer), Instagram (@carasueachterberg), or TikTok (@CaraSueAchterberg) and of course, at CaraWrites.com.
Cara is the co-founder of Who Will Let the Dogs Out, a non-profit that raises awareness and resources for homeless dogs and the heroes who fight for them. Learn more at WhoWillLetTheDogsOut.org.
Information on all her books, blogs, and upcoming appearances can be found at CaraWrites.com.
When not writing or weeding (which can sometimes be one and the same), Cara enjoys hiking, reading, visiting Virginia wineries, and growing pretty much anything, including her circle of friends.
You can keep up with Cara on Facebook (Cara Sue Achterberg, writer), Instagram (@carasueachterberg), or TikTok (@CaraSueAchterberg) and of course, at CaraWrites.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
January 3, 2021
4.5.
‘He [Coach Mitchell] is as close as you get to a celebrity in this town, but to the football players, he is a god.’
16-year-old Jessica Johnson has it all. Smart, sporty and popular, she's a track star, AP student, and has just been nominated for Homecoming Court. But a split-second fateful decision to read a text while driving causes her to hit, and kill, a pedestrian – the beloved football coach at her high school, pillar of their small-town Texas community.
Liz Johnson knows what it's like to be at the centre of a scandal. She's felt the town's eyes on her for years, judging her every move. Even since she fell pregnant with Jess at 17, was abandoned by her strict religious father, and was left with no option but to marry her high school boyfriend, which ended in divorce a few years later. Liz has always been determined to provide Jess with all the opportunities she never had, and in turn Jess has thrived. But now everything has changed, her daughter's prosperous future is suddenly uncertain, there’s a possibility of jail time, and Jess needs her more than ever. And Liz will do whatever it takes to help her.
Blind Turn is a tragic reminder of the dangers of cellphone use while operating a motor vehicle, and how the consequences of one terrible choice can sometimes feel like too much to bear. But more than that it's about forgiveness – that there's light at the end of even the darkest tunnel, that one moment of stupidity does not define a person, and kindness, guidance, advice, and support can come from people you never expected. There are also some heavy themes – depression, unhealthy coping mechanisms, suicidal thoughts, grief, loss, and online and offline bullying. It's an emotional read but a hopeful and important one. But, keep those tissues at the ready, because you'll need them. It's part courtroom legal/drama as well.
Another prominent theme was the mother/teenage daughter bond between Liz and Jess, and their alternating viewpoints showed how protective Liz was, how smothered Jess sometimes felt but their enduring love for one another was never in doubt. While not strictly YA I think this is a book teenager’s (girls in particular) would find relatable. There's nothing graphic, and only a couple of instances of profanity. It would also be a great choice for parents and teens to read together to encourage communication and promote discussion regarding the social issues raised.
An easy, engrossing, thought-provoking read, with short chapters, therefore perfect for those pushed for time or on the go. I have no hesitation in recommending this book.
I'd like to thank Netgalley, Black Rose Writing, and Cara Sue Achterberg for the e-ARC.
Publication Date: 7th January, 2021.
‘He [Coach Mitchell] is as close as you get to a celebrity in this town, but to the football players, he is a god.’
16-year-old Jessica Johnson has it all. Smart, sporty and popular, she's a track star, AP student, and has just been nominated for Homecoming Court. But a split-second fateful decision to read a text while driving causes her to hit, and kill, a pedestrian – the beloved football coach at her high school, pillar of their small-town Texas community.
Liz Johnson knows what it's like to be at the centre of a scandal. She's felt the town's eyes on her for years, judging her every move. Even since she fell pregnant with Jess at 17, was abandoned by her strict religious father, and was left with no option but to marry her high school boyfriend, which ended in divorce a few years later. Liz has always been determined to provide Jess with all the opportunities she never had, and in turn Jess has thrived. But now everything has changed, her daughter's prosperous future is suddenly uncertain, there’s a possibility of jail time, and Jess needs her more than ever. And Liz will do whatever it takes to help her.
Blind Turn is a tragic reminder of the dangers of cellphone use while operating a motor vehicle, and how the consequences of one terrible choice can sometimes feel like too much to bear. But more than that it's about forgiveness – that there's light at the end of even the darkest tunnel, that one moment of stupidity does not define a person, and kindness, guidance, advice, and support can come from people you never expected. There are also some heavy themes – depression, unhealthy coping mechanisms, suicidal thoughts, grief, loss, and online and offline bullying. It's an emotional read but a hopeful and important one. But, keep those tissues at the ready, because you'll need them. It's part courtroom legal/drama as well.
Another prominent theme was the mother/teenage daughter bond between Liz and Jess, and their alternating viewpoints showed how protective Liz was, how smothered Jess sometimes felt but their enduring love for one another was never in doubt. While not strictly YA I think this is a book teenager’s (girls in particular) would find relatable. There's nothing graphic, and only a couple of instances of profanity. It would also be a great choice for parents and teens to read together to encourage communication and promote discussion regarding the social issues raised.
An easy, engrossing, thought-provoking read, with short chapters, therefore perfect for those pushed for time or on the go. I have no hesitation in recommending this book.
I'd like to thank Netgalley, Black Rose Writing, and Cara Sue Achterberg for the e-ARC.
Publication Date: 7th January, 2021.
December 15, 2020
"Blind Turn" by Cara Sue Achterberg is an emotional read and an exceptional Coming-of-Age story!
Jessica Johnson is 16 years old, an honor-student, track star and all-around good kid in every way! So when she's involved in a car accident that kills beloved high school football coach, Richard Mitchell there are questions she can't answer. You see, Jess can't remember anything that happens after getting in the driver's seat to take her BFF Sheila home. How can she possibly be responsible for Coach Mitchell's death? She would never text while driving! But, when word gets out how the accident may have been caused and Jess was the one driving, it starts a ripple effect through the Jefferson, Texas community. The invasive media and the backlash felt at school, in her neighborhood and by the community-at-large is overwhelming, not only for Jess, but for her mom, too.
This story is told in the two point-of-views from daughter, Jess and mom, Liz. As they lead the reader through this story, you can hear and feel how far apart they are, how separately they exist in their own personal and emotional bubbles. Struggling to hold on to their individual dreams, now they begin on an endurance test through a life altering journey resulting from a split second decision. Even though it is definitely a roller coaster ride for this mother and daughter, I admired these two characters for their strength, endurance and love for each other!
Although the main focus of this story is the car accident it is also about the 'Art of Forgiveness':
Is forgiveness necessary?
What does it offer?
Who decides it's time to forgive?
Who is the one with more to gain?
Is it the one who forgives or the one being forgiven?
How is it possible to forgive yourself?
The realistic story-line, strong character development and meaningful back-stores that hold the characters together made this book a winner for me! I loved this tragic story, how it ends and how emotional it makes me feel! I cared about Jess and Liz, I cried for them and I cried for Coach Mitchell and his family, too. It's not often you have the opportunity to read a book that is well written and offers so many lessons you continue to think about.
I highly recommend this book to those who love Coming-of-Age and Family Fiction Genres.
__________________________
Thank you to BookSirens, Cara Sue Achterberg and the publisher, Black Rose Writing for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Jessica Johnson is 16 years old, an honor-student, track star and all-around good kid in every way! So when she's involved in a car accident that kills beloved high school football coach, Richard Mitchell there are questions she can't answer. You see, Jess can't remember anything that happens after getting in the driver's seat to take her BFF Sheila home. How can she possibly be responsible for Coach Mitchell's death? She would never text while driving! But, when word gets out how the accident may have been caused and Jess was the one driving, it starts a ripple effect through the Jefferson, Texas community. The invasive media and the backlash felt at school, in her neighborhood and by the community-at-large is overwhelming, not only for Jess, but for her mom, too.
This story is told in the two point-of-views from daughter, Jess and mom, Liz. As they lead the reader through this story, you can hear and feel how far apart they are, how separately they exist in their own personal and emotional bubbles. Struggling to hold on to their individual dreams, now they begin on an endurance test through a life altering journey resulting from a split second decision. Even though it is definitely a roller coaster ride for this mother and daughter, I admired these two characters for their strength, endurance and love for each other!
Although the main focus of this story is the car accident it is also about the 'Art of Forgiveness':
Is forgiveness necessary?
What does it offer?
Who decides it's time to forgive?
Who is the one with more to gain?
Is it the one who forgives or the one being forgiven?
How is it possible to forgive yourself?
The realistic story-line, strong character development and meaningful back-stores that hold the characters together made this book a winner for me! I loved this tragic story, how it ends and how emotional it makes me feel! I cared about Jess and Liz, I cried for them and I cried for Coach Mitchell and his family, too. It's not often you have the opportunity to read a book that is well written and offers so many lessons you continue to think about.
I highly recommend this book to those who love Coming-of-Age and Family Fiction Genres.
__________________________
Thank you to BookSirens, Cara Sue Achterberg and the publisher, Black Rose Writing for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 5, 2021
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Blind Turn by Cara Sue Achterberg is a fabulous, powerful book about life. The plot revolves around a deadly car accident that impacted a young girl, her family’s lives, and also the small town she lives in.
The book is very well written and I loved the attention to detail and how it connects to real-life issues.
The characters were described so well they became very vivid in my head whilst reading. Liv, the single-mother of the driver of the car would do anything for her daughter, her dad Jake, Kevin the lawyer who was a genuine all-around good guy, and Jessica a normal teenager who had to grow up quickly when the accident happened.
The story held my attention and also touched all my emotions. It was so lovely the whole way through but Jessica’s speech brought me to tears, it was brilliant!
This is a definite page-turner with so much packed into the storyline and so many incredible characters.
This was an excellent read about how life can change in an instance, how it can impact numerous people, but also how it can be overcome. Well done to author Cara Sue Achterberg for one of the best reads I have had. This is a book that I will be recommending to all my family and friends and I would like to read more from this author in the future.
Blind Turn by Cara Sue Achterberg is a fabulous, powerful book about life. The plot revolves around a deadly car accident that impacted a young girl, her family’s lives, and also the small town she lives in.
The book is very well written and I loved the attention to detail and how it connects to real-life issues.
The characters were described so well they became very vivid in my head whilst reading. Liv, the single-mother of the driver of the car would do anything for her daughter, her dad Jake, Kevin the lawyer who was a genuine all-around good guy, and Jessica a normal teenager who had to grow up quickly when the accident happened.
The story held my attention and also touched all my emotions. It was so lovely the whole way through but Jessica’s speech brought me to tears, it was brilliant!
This is a definite page-turner with so much packed into the storyline and so many incredible characters.
This was an excellent read about how life can change in an instance, how it can impact numerous people, but also how it can be overcome. Well done to author Cara Sue Achterberg for one of the best reads I have had. This is a book that I will be recommending to all my family and friends and I would like to read more from this author in the future.
February 5, 2021
The short description of this book was very intriguing so I somehow had high expectations when I started reading this. The author did a great job in creating a beautifully sad and wholesome story around a girl who kills a man by accident and how this impacts the lives of many. While the story is only told from the view of Liz and Jess, other characters are well developed as well and supports the story in a good way. I really liked Jess so much, whereas Liz was a character I couldn't relate to. I also loved how every characters seem to have flaws like in the real world where we need to deal different problems at the same time (and make mistakes here and there). Also, it was interesting how the story mostly focused on Liz and Jess and not much about the whole legal issue and the drama around it.
In general, the story was wonderful to read and heartwarming as well. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is into family drama and human life stories. I'm glad that the author didn't write a story full of cliches but tried to give every character some dignity and room to develop. The development of Jess through the story was remarkable and I really loved the human and loving aspect of Mrs. Mitchell and her family so much.
**I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens for leaving an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.**
In general, the story was wonderful to read and heartwarming as well. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is into family drama and human life stories. I'm glad that the author didn't write a story full of cliches but tried to give every character some dignity and room to develop. The development of Jess through the story was remarkable and I really loved the human and loving aspect of Mrs. Mitchell and her family so much.
**I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens for leaving an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.**
November 29, 2020
This story deftly deals with a devasting accident and the ripple effect it has on a community. Each character is isolated in their own bubble of emotions yet affected by all the others. I think this book would be a great Book Club pick as there are so many discussions and conversations that arise while reading.
How far are you willing to go to protect your child? And what is possible versus what should be done? How well do we know others, even those we are sharing a home with? What are the ties that bind us to others, whether family, marriage, friendship, or acquaintance?
With the setting of a small town in Texas, the location directly affects all the characters. Not just as a place but as an environment. Having grown up in a small town I could easily relate to everyone knowing your business even when it might not be the real version of an event.
This is not just a story of loss but also its deep and lasting ramifications.
How far are you willing to go to protect your child? And what is possible versus what should be done? How well do we know others, even those we are sharing a home with? What are the ties that bind us to others, whether family, marriage, friendship, or acquaintance?
With the setting of a small town in Texas, the location directly affects all the characters. Not just as a place but as an environment. Having grown up in a small town I could easily relate to everyone knowing your business even when it might not be the real version of an event.
This is not just a story of loss but also its deep and lasting ramifications.
January 17, 2021
"Does one monstrous mistake make you a bad person?"
Jess doesn’t remember anything about the night when she accidentally hit and killed the beloved high school football coach while she was supposedly texting and driving. But why won’t the only other witness, Jess’s best friend, talk to her? Why can’t Jess remember? So begins Blind Turn, a story of forgiveness, acceptance, and the bonds that tie people together.
This is a poignant and powerful story that really makes you think about how quickly one’s life can change. Realistic and relatable, it’s told from dual narratives, mother and daughter, which works well with the story and creates well-developed, dynamic characters. This type of narration also shows how much Liz and Jess grow from the start of the book to the end. I found it fascinating to see the story from two different perspectives, and it really shows how one action affects a multitude of people.
Jess deals with the guilt and pain of killing a man, the vilification from the community, and fear of her future. An honor roll student, an athlete, and a popular girl, Jess’s main concern before the accident was going to a school dance. However, the accident changes everything and forces Jess to reexamine her relationships, her priorities, and her overall attitude toward life. Jess grows tremendously from this tragic incident and tries to find meaning and purpose again.
As a mother of a fifteen-year-old, I found Jess’s chaotic emotions and sullen and sometimes rude behavior, which she uses to hide her true feelings, quite believable. The eye rolls, the stomping, the sarcasm, and the general discontent all ring true. Jess struggles to communicate and identify her feelings, and she often lashes out at those closest to her, especially her mother.
Liz is a hard-working single mom who is doing the best she can to raise her daughter. Desperate to help her through the aftermath of the accident, which includes a trial and possible jail time, the helplessness, fear, disbelief, and determination that Liz experiences are so realistic. I love that Liz is fierce in her belief in her daughter, and her love is unconditional. That’s not to say she’s without flaws. Liz definitely makes mistakes, but she learns from them and from the experience. She also faces her own demons and fears as she supports and helps her daughter. I loved her character – a woman who has tried her best to protect her child and raise her with love who is faced with a horrific, unfixable, and unfathomable reality.
There are also several wonderful and unexpected connections that added such depth to the story, especially Jess’s relationships with new friends, a school counselor, and the coach’s wife. Liz’s budding relationship with Kevin is another highlight (and complication) of the story that intrigued me.
This moving story focuses on difficult and complex problems and circumstances, including mental health, grief, feelings of helplessness, societal judgment narrowmindedness, and more. There are many touching moments throughout the book, and though it focuses on a tragic incident, you are left feeling hopeful at the end.
Finally, I love the strong, universal questions presented throughout the story. Should one bad decision define your future? Is forgiveness possible? What is really important in life? Who can you trust? What do you do when your expectations result in disappointment? Does forgiveness require sacrifice?
I devoured this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes realistic fiction with strong messages and interesting characters. Thanks so much to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Jess doesn’t remember anything about the night when she accidentally hit and killed the beloved high school football coach while she was supposedly texting and driving. But why won’t the only other witness, Jess’s best friend, talk to her? Why can’t Jess remember? So begins Blind Turn, a story of forgiveness, acceptance, and the bonds that tie people together.
This is a poignant and powerful story that really makes you think about how quickly one’s life can change. Realistic and relatable, it’s told from dual narratives, mother and daughter, which works well with the story and creates well-developed, dynamic characters. This type of narration also shows how much Liz and Jess grow from the start of the book to the end. I found it fascinating to see the story from two different perspectives, and it really shows how one action affects a multitude of people.
Jess deals with the guilt and pain of killing a man, the vilification from the community, and fear of her future. An honor roll student, an athlete, and a popular girl, Jess’s main concern before the accident was going to a school dance. However, the accident changes everything and forces Jess to reexamine her relationships, her priorities, and her overall attitude toward life. Jess grows tremendously from this tragic incident and tries to find meaning and purpose again.
As a mother of a fifteen-year-old, I found Jess’s chaotic emotions and sullen and sometimes rude behavior, which she uses to hide her true feelings, quite believable. The eye rolls, the stomping, the sarcasm, and the general discontent all ring true. Jess struggles to communicate and identify her feelings, and she often lashes out at those closest to her, especially her mother.
Liz is a hard-working single mom who is doing the best she can to raise her daughter. Desperate to help her through the aftermath of the accident, which includes a trial and possible jail time, the helplessness, fear, disbelief, and determination that Liz experiences are so realistic. I love that Liz is fierce in her belief in her daughter, and her love is unconditional. That’s not to say she’s without flaws. Liz definitely makes mistakes, but she learns from them and from the experience. She also faces her own demons and fears as she supports and helps her daughter. I loved her character – a woman who has tried her best to protect her child and raise her with love who is faced with a horrific, unfixable, and unfathomable reality.
There are also several wonderful and unexpected connections that added such depth to the story, especially Jess’s relationships with new friends, a school counselor, and the coach’s wife. Liz’s budding relationship with Kevin is another highlight (and complication) of the story that intrigued me.
This moving story focuses on difficult and complex problems and circumstances, including mental health, grief, feelings of helplessness, societal judgment narrowmindedness, and more. There are many touching moments throughout the book, and though it focuses on a tragic incident, you are left feeling hopeful at the end.
Finally, I love the strong, universal questions presented throughout the story. Should one bad decision define your future? Is forgiveness possible? What is really important in life? Who can you trust? What do you do when your expectations result in disappointment? Does forgiveness require sacrifice?
I devoured this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes realistic fiction with strong messages and interesting characters. Thanks so much to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
November 20, 2020
“How can one moment, one split second, alter a lifetime, split it decidedly into before and after?”
Where do I even begin with writing this review? This book made me feel every emotion, and I may have even shed a few tears, which is not something I do often. A story of making mistakes, dealing with the consequences, and learning how to forgive, Blind Turn is an incredibly heartfelt story that I couldn’t put down.
When Jess Johnson, an honor student, track star, and exemplary teenager, is involved in a car accident that results in the death of a beloved high school football coach, everything changes in the small town of Jefferson, Texas. In a town like Jefferson, where everyone knows everyone, there’s no shortage of opinions on what should happen to Jess and how she should pay for her involvement in Coach Mitchell’s death. Jess was driving the car in the alleged texting and driving case, but is there more to the story? Jess’s mom Liz knows that Jess never used her phone while driving, but with Jess having no memory of the crash and the only witness, Jess’s best friend Sheila, backing up the texting and driving accusation, what other explanation could there be?
Although this is a 2021 release, it’s easily one of my favorite books I’ve read in 2020. Being a family drama, I didn’t expect so much to happen from the very beginning, but the action begins in the first chapter. The characters all felt so real and raw that it was impossible not to feel for them. Liz is a single mom, trying to raise her daughter the best way she knows how, while living paycheck to paycheck and without much of a support system. Jess’s father Jake never really grew up, spending his days drinking and hanging out with his buddies, but after the accident, promises to become the father he always should have been. These are people we all know, and maybe have even passed judgment on at some point. One of the themes that comes up several times and really resonated with me is that this can happen to anyone. Any of us at any time can be at fault in an incident that results in harming someone else. It was a definite reminder that you never know what someone else is going through, and kindness is free. Watching Jess struggle with being vilified by the tight-knit community of Jefferson, facing a possible prison sentence, and her own self-hatred truly broke by heart, but as she came to terms with how her life would never be the same, her maturity and growth was evident and so beautiful to see.
I found the way the ending wrapped up to be absolutely perfect. The concept of forgiveness for not just others but for ourselves is explored so beautifully, but also so realistically. I finished this novel feeling so satisfied. Blind Turn is an outstanding novel that will take you through a huge range of emotions, and will reinforce that forgiveness and love go hand in hand.
Thank you so much to Cara Sue Achterberg and Black Rose Writing for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Where do I even begin with writing this review? This book made me feel every emotion, and I may have even shed a few tears, which is not something I do often. A story of making mistakes, dealing with the consequences, and learning how to forgive, Blind Turn is an incredibly heartfelt story that I couldn’t put down.
When Jess Johnson, an honor student, track star, and exemplary teenager, is involved in a car accident that results in the death of a beloved high school football coach, everything changes in the small town of Jefferson, Texas. In a town like Jefferson, where everyone knows everyone, there’s no shortage of opinions on what should happen to Jess and how she should pay for her involvement in Coach Mitchell’s death. Jess was driving the car in the alleged texting and driving case, but is there more to the story? Jess’s mom Liz knows that Jess never used her phone while driving, but with Jess having no memory of the crash and the only witness, Jess’s best friend Sheila, backing up the texting and driving accusation, what other explanation could there be?
Although this is a 2021 release, it’s easily one of my favorite books I’ve read in 2020. Being a family drama, I didn’t expect so much to happen from the very beginning, but the action begins in the first chapter. The characters all felt so real and raw that it was impossible not to feel for them. Liz is a single mom, trying to raise her daughter the best way she knows how, while living paycheck to paycheck and without much of a support system. Jess’s father Jake never really grew up, spending his days drinking and hanging out with his buddies, but after the accident, promises to become the father he always should have been. These are people we all know, and maybe have even passed judgment on at some point. One of the themes that comes up several times and really resonated with me is that this can happen to anyone. Any of us at any time can be at fault in an incident that results in harming someone else. It was a definite reminder that you never know what someone else is going through, and kindness is free. Watching Jess struggle with being vilified by the tight-knit community of Jefferson, facing a possible prison sentence, and her own self-hatred truly broke by heart, but as she came to terms with how her life would never be the same, her maturity and growth was evident and so beautiful to see.
I found the way the ending wrapped up to be absolutely perfect. The concept of forgiveness for not just others but for ourselves is explored so beautifully, but also so realistically. I finished this novel feeling so satisfied. Blind Turn is an outstanding novel that will take you through a huge range of emotions, and will reinforce that forgiveness and love go hand in hand.
Thank you so much to Cara Sue Achterberg and Black Rose Writing for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 1, 2020
Jess is 16 years old and driving her friend home. They end up in a texting and driving accident and Jess hits the high school coach and he is killed. As Jess awaits her trial, you read about about all her and her family endures! All of the reporters, and the people in this small town don't make it easy for her AT ALL!! This was a very emotional read. I felt this story was very true to what would really happen under these circumstances. The story is told through Jess, and also her mother. I liked hearing both of their POV! The characters are easy to relate to and felt so real! I think the ending was perfect the way it all wrapped up! Im so happy I had the chance to read this book. This would make a really good movie!! Highly recommend it!
Thank you to the author for sending me an early review copy! All opinions are my own!
Thank you to the author for sending me an early review copy! All opinions are my own!
November 23, 2020
“They may need to forgive you as badly as you need to apologize”
This gem of a book tugs at all the heartstrings! It’ll have you heartbroken, angry, empathetic, and proud. Have your comfort items at the ready because this incredible story will have you wanting to cuddle up and call your loved ones.
Jess, a Junior honor student and track star, struggles to remember the accident that killed beloved football coach, Robert Mitchell. In a small Texas town, Coach meant everything to everyone; he was also a mentor, basically a father figure to anyone that needed a little extra guidance. Jess becomes public enemy number one after the accident, even more so when it becomes clear that it was due to texting and driving. Told in alternating perspectives between Jess and her mother Liz, the story of this tragedy unfolds with the main theme of forgiveness- when is it deserved, when is it necessary, and who gets to decide when it is given.
While the action centers on the legal drama and fallout from the accident, this story is expansive in the range of emotions that it covers. Achtenburg did an incredible job of diving into the thoughts and feelings that we go through as we face tragedy and mistakes. At this scale in a public setting, mistakes can seem unbearable to teenagers learning to process emotions and seeing life beyond the present.
My favorite take away is the reminder of the necessity of forgiveness, specifically for oneself and the future. At any time, any one of us could make a mistake, big or small, and we will need to find our way through it. As Coach Mitchell’s wife reminds Jess, to make mistakes is to be human.
I can’t recommend this book enough! Thank you to Cara Sue Achterberg and Black Rose Writing for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
This gem of a book tugs at all the heartstrings! It’ll have you heartbroken, angry, empathetic, and proud. Have your comfort items at the ready because this incredible story will have you wanting to cuddle up and call your loved ones.
Jess, a Junior honor student and track star, struggles to remember the accident that killed beloved football coach, Robert Mitchell. In a small Texas town, Coach meant everything to everyone; he was also a mentor, basically a father figure to anyone that needed a little extra guidance. Jess becomes public enemy number one after the accident, even more so when it becomes clear that it was due to texting and driving. Told in alternating perspectives between Jess and her mother Liz, the story of this tragedy unfolds with the main theme of forgiveness- when is it deserved, when is it necessary, and who gets to decide when it is given.
While the action centers on the legal drama and fallout from the accident, this story is expansive in the range of emotions that it covers. Achtenburg did an incredible job of diving into the thoughts and feelings that we go through as we face tragedy and mistakes. At this scale in a public setting, mistakes can seem unbearable to teenagers learning to process emotions and seeing life beyond the present.
My favorite take away is the reminder of the necessity of forgiveness, specifically for oneself and the future. At any time, any one of us could make a mistake, big or small, and we will need to find our way through it. As Coach Mitchell’s wife reminds Jess, to make mistakes is to be human.
I can’t recommend this book enough! Thank you to Cara Sue Achterberg and Black Rose Writing for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 12, 2020
'Blind Turn' describes that unthinkable, horrifying event that could really happen to anyone driving a car. A glance away from the road to a phone and tragedy occurs. Jess Johnson is driving her best friend Sheila home from school when her phone lights up with a text. Jess is a careful driver and never drives and texts but somehow the car leaves the road and a beloved football coach and his dog who happened to be walking on the road are killed. Even though Jess does not remember any of the 'accident' she is charged with homicide.
So begins the tale of a small Texas towns vilification of a young girl, an honor student and athlete and how she and her family navigate through their inner demons, self doubts and finally to a path of forgiveness on the other side. The author does a magnificent job of bringing the characters to life. She speaks for them in a true and totally believable narrative. Jess is a teenage girl with hopes and dreams that have been side railed by this tragedy. Liz, her mother is desperate to protect her daughter. She is fiercely independent as a single mother but must reach out for help from a lawyer she knows is interested in her romantically, not something she is comfortable with. Jess’s dad is the perpetual Peter Pan who is still occasionally around as a father figure, but he is not of much help. The path of these characters is difficult and heartbreaking but in the end so very fufilling. I loved these characters with all their doubts and flaws, they were all so very human. My take away from this book is that forgiveness, while so hard to give to ones self, is the bigger part of love. Very highly recommended.
So begins the tale of a small Texas towns vilification of a young girl, an honor student and athlete and how she and her family navigate through their inner demons, self doubts and finally to a path of forgiveness on the other side. The author does a magnificent job of bringing the characters to life. She speaks for them in a true and totally believable narrative. Jess is a teenage girl with hopes and dreams that have been side railed by this tragedy. Liz, her mother is desperate to protect her daughter. She is fiercely independent as a single mother but must reach out for help from a lawyer she knows is interested in her romantically, not something she is comfortable with. Jess’s dad is the perpetual Peter Pan who is still occasionally around as a father figure, but he is not of much help. The path of these characters is difficult and heartbreaking but in the end so very fufilling. I loved these characters with all their doubts and flaws, they were all so very human. My take away from this book is that forgiveness, while so hard to give to ones self, is the bigger part of love. Very highly recommended.
December 7, 2020
This is the first time I am reviewing this author and genre of book.
I think "Don't Live Distracted" and "Forgiveness" are the key take aways.
The book is told via 2 POV, through the daughter and moms journeys.
The subject 'distracted driving' with fatal consequences, was sobering, the manner in which the author told the story was very well written, I felt for the characters and what they were going through.
It was thoughtful, compelling, sympathetic, the story is told in the present with flashbacks to fill in their past and how it affected their lives, which I thought was filler.
Spoiler comments, I thought there were such touching moments in this story, between Mrs. Mitchell and Jessica, Karens (daughter of victim) victim impact statement in court and Jessica's speech to the school was just amazing and thought provoking that I cried!!
I did not give the book 5 stars (4.5) because I thought there was so much going on already that the introduction of "Jills'" character was important for Kevins' backstory but it should have stopped there, I felt it didn't "add" to the overall story, it just made it unnecessarily complicated and kinda unrealistic on many levels.
And I always love a epilogue as closure.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I think "Don't Live Distracted" and "Forgiveness" are the key take aways.
The book is told via 2 POV, through the daughter and moms journeys.
The subject 'distracted driving' with fatal consequences, was sobering, the manner in which the author told the story was very well written, I felt for the characters and what they were going through.
It was thoughtful, compelling, sympathetic, the story is told in the present with flashbacks to fill in their past and how it affected their lives, which I thought was filler.
Spoiler comments, I thought there were such touching moments in this story, between Mrs. Mitchell and Jessica, Karens (daughter of victim) victim impact statement in court and Jessica's speech to the school was just amazing and thought provoking that I cried!!
I did not give the book 5 stars (4.5) because I thought there was so much going on already that the introduction of "Jills'" character was important for Kevins' backstory but it should have stopped there, I felt it didn't "add" to the overall story, it just made it unnecessarily complicated and kinda unrealistic on many levels.
And I always love a epilogue as closure.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 5, 2022
I really enjoyed this timely and emotional read by Cara Sue Achterberg.
This story was gripping and easy to follow. I thought it was entertaining but also realistic. Texting and driving is responsible for so many accidents. I want my daughter and all of her friends to read this book too.
A well written and inspiring story of tragedy and forgiveness with characters I really became invested in.
I'm looking forward to reading more from Cara Sue!
December 4, 2020
Blind Turn is a “coming of age” story that will hit you hard- with sadness and with hope. The timeless proverb, “There, but for the grace of God, go I” is at the heart of this book. What happens to a family when a single second in time changes everything?
Because this story is told in the first person, alternating between mother Liz and teenage daughter Jess, the immediacy of the events draws us in. We sit with this family (Liz is divorced from Jess’s dad Jake) as they cry together, worry and struggle together. We are there for each moment of heartbreak.
The setting, a small town in Texas, is at the heart of this story, too. The cover of this book is lovely, and that’s how I pictured the area. Jefferson is like an extended family- it can give love and acceptance and also impatience and ill-will.
“One tiny moment in time- you don’t even think it could matter” is the focus of the book. Jess is an all-around “good kid”, good grades, good in sports. “One moment” in the early evening she is driving, with her best friend Sheila as the passenger. The next instant- Jess is in the hospital with a major concussion. She learns that she crashed the car and killed the beloved high school coach as he walked his dog. Was it a blind turn or was it a teenager’s carelessness?
Jess cannot recall any particulars of the accident and must go through the serious matters of being charged. She and her family react to the accident and impending juvenile criminal trial in understandable ways. “How could you?” “We’ll do anything for you!” This horrible situation will change the lives of Jess and her parents. Will it be for the better? Or not? Jess reacts as a teenager would. I wished her parents had been stronger.
One of my favorite moments of the book is when Jess’s Dad passes her some butterscotch lifesavers in court to steady her fears. This small love connection is the soul of this book. We also see forgiveness, grace, and hope in the actions of the coach’s wife.
Jess is the star of the book and Blind Turn is an engaging, emotional book that will connect with teenagers and their families. Author Cara Sue Achterberg is one of my favorite authors because she takes a moment from everyday life and turns it into an absorbing and honest story. I received an advance review copy from the author, and this is my honest review.
Because this story is told in the first person, alternating between mother Liz and teenage daughter Jess, the immediacy of the events draws us in. We sit with this family (Liz is divorced from Jess’s dad Jake) as they cry together, worry and struggle together. We are there for each moment of heartbreak.
The setting, a small town in Texas, is at the heart of this story, too. The cover of this book is lovely, and that’s how I pictured the area. Jefferson is like an extended family- it can give love and acceptance and also impatience and ill-will.
“One tiny moment in time- you don’t even think it could matter” is the focus of the book. Jess is an all-around “good kid”, good grades, good in sports. “One moment” in the early evening she is driving, with her best friend Sheila as the passenger. The next instant- Jess is in the hospital with a major concussion. She learns that she crashed the car and killed the beloved high school coach as he walked his dog. Was it a blind turn or was it a teenager’s carelessness?
Jess cannot recall any particulars of the accident and must go through the serious matters of being charged. She and her family react to the accident and impending juvenile criminal trial in understandable ways. “How could you?” “We’ll do anything for you!” This horrible situation will change the lives of Jess and her parents. Will it be for the better? Or not? Jess reacts as a teenager would. I wished her parents had been stronger.
One of my favorite moments of the book is when Jess’s Dad passes her some butterscotch lifesavers in court to steady her fears. This small love connection is the soul of this book. We also see forgiveness, grace, and hope in the actions of the coach’s wife.
Jess is the star of the book and Blind Turn is an engaging, emotional book that will connect with teenagers and their families. Author Cara Sue Achterberg is one of my favorite authors because she takes a moment from everyday life and turns it into an absorbing and honest story. I received an advance review copy from the author, and this is my honest review.
May 6, 2021
Loved this book! I am a sucker for a mother-daughter story, and this one delivers. It alternates points of view between the mother and her teenage daughter, who is involved in a tragic car accident. There is great character development, a really interesting plot, some legal court room drama, and a potential love interest for the mother. I particularly liked the relationship the mother had with her ex-husband and the way that was developed and how they were forced to interact while the daughter was going through this difficult time. Cara Achterberg’s writing is so accessible that it makes you feel like a really good friend is taking you by the hand and telling you the story. I enjoyed spending time with the characters and was sad when the book ended, which is always a good sign for me.
December 18, 2020
I write this review as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team, and I freely chose to review an ARC copy of this novel.
I read and reviewed a novel by the same author, Practicing Normal, over three years ago, but I enjoyed it so much, and it made such an impact that I requested this one straight away. (You can check my review here). The author has been busy with other projects and has published several non-fiction titles in the meantime, but I can say that her new novel was worth the wait.
The book description gives an idea of the bare bones of the story, which is not very complicated, at least on the face of it. The novel follows the aftermath of a terrible accident, although perhaps not a totally ‘accidental’ accident, as the girl driving, Jess, was ‘allegedly’ texting while driving. The girl, who suffers a concussion, can’t remember anything about the accident, but her friend Sheila, who was with her in the car, has plenty to say. The victim is a well-known town coach and a friend and mentor of the girl’s father. Let’s say there’s not much love lost for the girl and her family in the town (Jefferson, Texas) after that happens. The novel falls into the categories of family drama (or women’s stories, as the story is told by the two women, Liz, the mother, and Jess, her daughter, in the first-person) as well as a coming of age story. Jess is only sixteen when the accident happens, and she grows up considerably during the next few months, while she discovers who her real friends are, reorders her priorities, gains a new appreciation for both her parents, learns about guilt, and more than anything, about forgiveness. She is not the only one who grows up in the process, and her mother also learns a lot about herself and about those around her.
I’ve mentioned some of the themes discussed in the book, and there are others: disappointed expectations, second chances, the risks of texting and driving (of course), parenting, split-up families, the nature of guilt and forgiveness, the way all lives are interconnected and all actions have consequences, unplanned parenthood, looking after the elderly (especially our parents)… This is not a novel full of secrets and twists, devious characters and bizarre motives, but rather one that we could imagine happening to our own relatives and/or friends (or ourselves). That is one of its strengths. The plot does not require any suspension of disbelief (or not much. At times, I wondered if in real life things wouldn’t have got even more difficult for those involved, and especially some of the male characters seem very understanding and forgiving, although that is refreshing), and as the book is not heavy on details or descriptions, it is even easier to imagine its scenario taking place around us.
I liked all (or most) of the characters. Although I have little in common with Liz or Jess, I found them both easy to empathise with. They are not perfect but are fundamentally good people trying to get on, and they love each other deeply, though at times it might not be that evident even to themselves. The rest of the characters are also pretty decent despite their flaws, and this is not a book where good and evil are clearly separated. Sometimes a mistake can have terrible consequences, and sometimes good people can do terrible things. If I had to choose some of my favourites, I quite liked Katie, Liz’s sister; her friend Avery; their neighbour, Dylan; Ellen, the counsellor; and Fish, a boy Jess’s father knows. Both of their love interests are endearing, although at times they appear a touch too perfect (but things happen that qualify that impression), and even the characters whose behaviour is not exemplary are not despicable. Through the main characters’ narrations we get to share in their doubts, hesitations, fears, defence-mechanisms, disappointments, expectations, hopes, guilt feelings; and it’s impossible not to wonder what we’d do in their place. I have no children, but I could easily imagine what Liz might feel like, and as somebody who’s driven for years and has been lucky enough not to be involved in any serious accidents (none involving injuries), Jess’s plight was instantly recognisable. Their thoughts and their emotions felt true, and the way they behave and eventually grow suits perfectly the kind of human beings they are.
The use of the first-person narration by the two main female characters works well, as we get both sides of the story, with access to more background into the changes and the actions of each character than the other has, and it also provides us with some distance from each woman and an outsider perspective on them, and we come to realise that they are more alike than they think. The author is both skilled and thoughtful enough to avoid common-places, and she does not give her characters an easy way out. They have to work through their issues and earn the hard lessons they learn. Saying that, I loved the ending that manages to be both, open and hopeful.
The writing flows easily, and although the novel is not full of action or a page-turner in the standard sense, there are very emotional moments. We become so involved in the lives of the characters that it’s difficult to put the book down, as we care too much for them to rest until we know what happens. I read a review written by somebody from Jefferson, Texas, who felt somewhat disappointed because she had expected to recognise some of the landmarks, so beware if you have similar expectations. On the other hand, I got a good sense of what it felt like to live there (or at least in the Jefferson of the novel) and to know the characters personally, and that worked perfectly well for me.
I thought I’d share a few of the passages I highlighted (although, remember mine was an ARC copy, so there might be some slight changes in the final version):
Why does forgiveness require a sacrifice? That piece of Christianity never made sense to me. That sounds more like making a deal than offering forgiveness.
I am the roadrunner, running in thin air, moments from smacking into reality.
Sometimes it feels like I’m in a dystopian novel being controlled by a cosmic author who makes the characters do things no one would ever dream they would do —especially themselves.
I am different too. I am finished withholding forgiveness and clinging to my anger and fear like some kind of sick armor to shield my heart.
I recommend this novel to readers who love realistic/plausible coming-of-age stories and family dramas that don’t fall into the trap of trying to make everything right or easy for the characters while at the same time avoiding unnecessary twists used simply for effect. If you’re looking for an inspiring story you can connect with and characters you’d love to have as neighbours or friends, this is your book. There is heartache, tears, and also a process of growth and lessons to be learned, and you’ll feel better for having read it. And what more can we ask for! (Oh, I almost forgot! There are dogs as well!)
I read and reviewed a novel by the same author, Practicing Normal, over three years ago, but I enjoyed it so much, and it made such an impact that I requested this one straight away. (You can check my review here). The author has been busy with other projects and has published several non-fiction titles in the meantime, but I can say that her new novel was worth the wait.
The book description gives an idea of the bare bones of the story, which is not very complicated, at least on the face of it. The novel follows the aftermath of a terrible accident, although perhaps not a totally ‘accidental’ accident, as the girl driving, Jess, was ‘allegedly’ texting while driving. The girl, who suffers a concussion, can’t remember anything about the accident, but her friend Sheila, who was with her in the car, has plenty to say. The victim is a well-known town coach and a friend and mentor of the girl’s father. Let’s say there’s not much love lost for the girl and her family in the town (Jefferson, Texas) after that happens. The novel falls into the categories of family drama (or women’s stories, as the story is told by the two women, Liz, the mother, and Jess, her daughter, in the first-person) as well as a coming of age story. Jess is only sixteen when the accident happens, and she grows up considerably during the next few months, while she discovers who her real friends are, reorders her priorities, gains a new appreciation for both her parents, learns about guilt, and more than anything, about forgiveness. She is not the only one who grows up in the process, and her mother also learns a lot about herself and about those around her.
I’ve mentioned some of the themes discussed in the book, and there are others: disappointed expectations, second chances, the risks of texting and driving (of course), parenting, split-up families, the nature of guilt and forgiveness, the way all lives are interconnected and all actions have consequences, unplanned parenthood, looking after the elderly (especially our parents)… This is not a novel full of secrets and twists, devious characters and bizarre motives, but rather one that we could imagine happening to our own relatives and/or friends (or ourselves). That is one of its strengths. The plot does not require any suspension of disbelief (or not much. At times, I wondered if in real life things wouldn’t have got even more difficult for those involved, and especially some of the male characters seem very understanding and forgiving, although that is refreshing), and as the book is not heavy on details or descriptions, it is even easier to imagine its scenario taking place around us.
I liked all (or most) of the characters. Although I have little in common with Liz or Jess, I found them both easy to empathise with. They are not perfect but are fundamentally good people trying to get on, and they love each other deeply, though at times it might not be that evident even to themselves. The rest of the characters are also pretty decent despite their flaws, and this is not a book where good and evil are clearly separated. Sometimes a mistake can have terrible consequences, and sometimes good people can do terrible things. If I had to choose some of my favourites, I quite liked Katie, Liz’s sister; her friend Avery; their neighbour, Dylan; Ellen, the counsellor; and Fish, a boy Jess’s father knows. Both of their love interests are endearing, although at times they appear a touch too perfect (but things happen that qualify that impression), and even the characters whose behaviour is not exemplary are not despicable. Through the main characters’ narrations we get to share in their doubts, hesitations, fears, defence-mechanisms, disappointments, expectations, hopes, guilt feelings; and it’s impossible not to wonder what we’d do in their place. I have no children, but I could easily imagine what Liz might feel like, and as somebody who’s driven for years and has been lucky enough not to be involved in any serious accidents (none involving injuries), Jess’s plight was instantly recognisable. Their thoughts and their emotions felt true, and the way they behave and eventually grow suits perfectly the kind of human beings they are.
The use of the first-person narration by the two main female characters works well, as we get both sides of the story, with access to more background into the changes and the actions of each character than the other has, and it also provides us with some distance from each woman and an outsider perspective on them, and we come to realise that they are more alike than they think. The author is both skilled and thoughtful enough to avoid common-places, and she does not give her characters an easy way out. They have to work through their issues and earn the hard lessons they learn. Saying that, I loved the ending that manages to be both, open and hopeful.
The writing flows easily, and although the novel is not full of action or a page-turner in the standard sense, there are very emotional moments. We become so involved in the lives of the characters that it’s difficult to put the book down, as we care too much for them to rest until we know what happens. I read a review written by somebody from Jefferson, Texas, who felt somewhat disappointed because she had expected to recognise some of the landmarks, so beware if you have similar expectations. On the other hand, I got a good sense of what it felt like to live there (or at least in the Jefferson of the novel) and to know the characters personally, and that worked perfectly well for me.
I thought I’d share a few of the passages I highlighted (although, remember mine was an ARC copy, so there might be some slight changes in the final version):
Why does forgiveness require a sacrifice? That piece of Christianity never made sense to me. That sounds more like making a deal than offering forgiveness.
I am the roadrunner, running in thin air, moments from smacking into reality.
Sometimes it feels like I’m in a dystopian novel being controlled by a cosmic author who makes the characters do things no one would ever dream they would do —especially themselves.
I am different too. I am finished withholding forgiveness and clinging to my anger and fear like some kind of sick armor to shield my heart.
I recommend this novel to readers who love realistic/plausible coming-of-age stories and family dramas that don’t fall into the trap of trying to make everything right or easy for the characters while at the same time avoiding unnecessary twists used simply for effect. If you’re looking for an inspiring story you can connect with and characters you’d love to have as neighbours or friends, this is your book. There is heartache, tears, and also a process of growth and lessons to be learned, and you’ll feel better for having read it. And what more can we ask for! (Oh, I almost forgot! There are dogs as well!)
March 15, 2021
An amazing read—Blind Turn succeeds on every level. The story of the aftermath of a teen driver’s tragic accident is compelling, keeping you turning pages to find out what happens next. The important life lessons—about forgiveness, acceptance of self and others, and the real meaning of love—are hard-earned and heartwarming. The storytelling is perfect, with finely tuned details that make every action, reaction, and circumstance realistic and believable—you feel that you’re right there in the world of these characters—more of an observer than a reader. And best of all are the characters themselves: complex and three-dimensional, flawed yet good-hearted, 100% true to life. It’s a rare author who can master any one of these elements over the length of a novel. With Blind Turn, Cara has achieved the near-impossible of mastering them all.
May 27, 2022
A riveting story with inspiring lessons:
I am happy to be able to recommend this book without hesitation. The story is a hard one, especially for anyone who’s ever parented a teenager. Model student Jess Johnson—track star and honor student—is in a terrible accident in which the local, beloved football coach is struck and killed by the car Jess is driving. She can’t remember what happened, but her supposed best friend, who was in the car with her, says Jess was texting and driving.
As her friends and so many in the community seem to turn against her, her divorced mother and her previously unreliable father fight for her as best they can. Jess’s mother enlists the help of a lawyer friend whose feelings for her are clearly more than professional.
The author has done a masterful job with a challenging, emotional story that easily could have have become either too heavy or too unrealistic. Her many complex characters created a rich web of relationships and subplots that added interest and drama within the main story.
Most impressive of all was the effective way the author handled her themes of forgiveness and redemption without glossing over the incredibly difficult circumstances or the real-life messiness of even the best relationships: between parents and teenagers, spouses and ex-spouses, grown children and elderly parents, and romantic partners of any age.
As the characters learned hard life lessons, so does the reader. I was left at the end of the book knowing I had read a really well-crafted story but also feeling inspired to live a better life from those lessons learned:
• Don’t take anyone or anything for granted.
• Life can turn on a dime (or one stupid decision)
• Withholding forgiveness and hanging on to anger and fear is “some kind of sick armor” you think will shield your heart but actually walls it off.
• Love is not always unconditional, but it should be.
• Waiting for an apology before you forgive someone is not true forgiveness.
• Treating someone poorly who has treated you poorly is no resolution.
I am happy to be able to recommend this book without hesitation. The story is a hard one, especially for anyone who’s ever parented a teenager. Model student Jess Johnson—track star and honor student—is in a terrible accident in which the local, beloved football coach is struck and killed by the car Jess is driving. She can’t remember what happened, but her supposed best friend, who was in the car with her, says Jess was texting and driving.
As her friends and so many in the community seem to turn against her, her divorced mother and her previously unreliable father fight for her as best they can. Jess’s mother enlists the help of a lawyer friend whose feelings for her are clearly more than professional.
The author has done a masterful job with a challenging, emotional story that easily could have have become either too heavy or too unrealistic. Her many complex characters created a rich web of relationships and subplots that added interest and drama within the main story.
Most impressive of all was the effective way the author handled her themes of forgiveness and redemption without glossing over the incredibly difficult circumstances or the real-life messiness of even the best relationships: between parents and teenagers, spouses and ex-spouses, grown children and elderly parents, and romantic partners of any age.
As the characters learned hard life lessons, so does the reader. I was left at the end of the book knowing I had read a really well-crafted story but also feeling inspired to live a better life from those lessons learned:
• Don’t take anyone or anything for granted.
• Life can turn on a dime (or one stupid decision)
• Withholding forgiveness and hanging on to anger and fear is “some kind of sick armor” you think will shield your heart but actually walls it off.
• Love is not always unconditional, but it should be.
• Waiting for an apology before you forgive someone is not true forgiveness.
• Treating someone poorly who has treated you poorly is no resolution.
December 17, 2020
"Forgiveness is the act of admitting we are like other people."-Christina Baldwin.
Truly a novel wrapped in tragedy, forgiveness, love, anger and hope.
It is written from the prospective of the main character, Jessica.
She is the teenager who has been involved in a devastating accident.
Each chapter then alternates with Liz- her Mom. She needs and wants to make things better, but just cannot "Kiss it away".
This is an especially poignant story that every parent and teenager should read to realize just how fast the world and life can change!
Well done and well written!
Truly a novel wrapped in tragedy, forgiveness, love, anger and hope.
It is written from the prospective of the main character, Jessica.
She is the teenager who has been involved in a devastating accident.
Each chapter then alternates with Liz- her Mom. She needs and wants to make things better, but just cannot "Kiss it away".
This is an especially poignant story that every parent and teenager should read to realize just how fast the world and life can change!
Well done and well written!
December 25, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. It is straightforward and heartfelt. The situation could happen to anyone. The characters are real: basically good and yet flawed. They struggle to get through and move on as well as struggle to connect with each other. Jess’ speech at the end of the story had me tearing up. It was raw and real. I would highly recommend this story to anyone who enjoys getting drawn in to a good family drama.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 12, 2020
This book knocked the wind out of me. As the mother of three teenage daughters, Blind Turn hit me where I live, a direct punch to the solar plexus with its stark reminder of how quickly one moment, one decision, one choice, can result in devastating, life-altering consequences.
With her impactful prose and intuitive, relatable story-telling, Achterberg delivers a story that grabs your attention from the beginning and keeps you turning the pages late into the night.
With her impactful prose and intuitive, relatable story-telling, Achterberg delivers a story that grabs your attention from the beginning and keeps you turning the pages late into the night.
February 27, 2021
One of the scariest books I’ve read in ages.
This was probably NOT the book to read as B turns 16.
Holy smokes!
Jess is a high achieving, conscientious 17 year old who takes her eyes off the wheel for only a second.
In the blink of an eye, she kills the towns beloved high school football coach.
Ugh.
This was hard to read, but captivating.
This was probably NOT the book to read as B turns 16.
Holy smokes!
Jess is a high achieving, conscientious 17 year old who takes her eyes off the wheel for only a second.
In the blink of an eye, she kills the towns beloved high school football coach.
Ugh.
This was hard to read, but captivating.
December 15, 2020
One Mistake
Jessica never dreams she will be in an accident while driving her friend home, but it happens. All she remembers is flashing lights and sirens, however, the beloved football coach in the small Texas town and his dog he was walking are dead. They say it is her fault, but she remembers nothing. Her best friend ...in fact all her friends....turn against her. She is called a murderer. There is press, people protesting, and the threat of jail time.
Lizzie raised her daughter well after her divorce doing it alone as a single parent. Married as a teenager she gave up college and her life to care for her daughter. Her daughter is a good student, a track star and a popular girl at school. Now it is going to be lost. Her chance at college, her career and all that she dreamed for her daughter. Where did she go wrong? What really happened in that car? Is her friend telling the truth?
Can her mother and her father come together to help Jess in this crisis? Will Lizzie's new relationship with Jess's lawyer Kevin be a factor. How will Jess respond to the crisis and will her life be changed forever?
This is a powerful story about a teenage driver texting on her phone and hitting and killing someone with her car. It is a sad story, but it could happen to any teenager out there on the road. It is about relationships between the teenager and her family. Her easy going carefree father, her stressed workaholic mother, and her best friend.
This book was sad but true to life. The situations could happen at any time to anyone driving and texting on their phone. I think everyone with a teenager should read this book and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to Cara Sue Achterberg, Black Rose Writing, and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read a copy of the book for an honest review.
Jessica never dreams she will be in an accident while driving her friend home, but it happens. All she remembers is flashing lights and sirens, however, the beloved football coach in the small Texas town and his dog he was walking are dead. They say it is her fault, but she remembers nothing. Her best friend ...in fact all her friends....turn against her. She is called a murderer. There is press, people protesting, and the threat of jail time.
Lizzie raised her daughter well after her divorce doing it alone as a single parent. Married as a teenager she gave up college and her life to care for her daughter. Her daughter is a good student, a track star and a popular girl at school. Now it is going to be lost. Her chance at college, her career and all that she dreamed for her daughter. Where did she go wrong? What really happened in that car? Is her friend telling the truth?
Can her mother and her father come together to help Jess in this crisis? Will Lizzie's new relationship with Jess's lawyer Kevin be a factor. How will Jess respond to the crisis and will her life be changed forever?
This is a powerful story about a teenage driver texting on her phone and hitting and killing someone with her car. It is a sad story, but it could happen to any teenager out there on the road. It is about relationships between the teenager and her family. Her easy going carefree father, her stressed workaholic mother, and her best friend.
This book was sad but true to life. The situations could happen at any time to anyone driving and texting on their phone. I think everyone with a teenager should read this book and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to Cara Sue Achterberg, Black Rose Writing, and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read a copy of the book for an honest review.
December 18, 2020
Cara Sue Achterberg writes a gorgeous, un-put-down-able book about the power of forgiveness—and the pain caused by the lack of it.
The book opens with Liz, a single mom, receiving a call from her ex that every parent dreads: her daughter Jess has had a car accident. But it gets worse: a pedestrian was killed. And not just any pedestrian, but the beloved football coach in their small, football-crazy Texas town. And maybe she was texting when it happened. “Maybe,” because Jess can’t remember.
The rest of the book follows the emotional, engrossing journey of mother and daughter as they navigate the long-term repercussions of single, momentary mistake. It also sheds light on the best and the worst that humanity can be in a time of tragedy. With trash being dumped on their lawn, spray paint on the sidewalk, and a best friend who’s dumped her, Jess feels her life is over—and Liz isn’t far behind. But they find support in surprising places: a lawyer. A school counselor. A nerdy next door neighbor boy. While Jess tries to forgive herself, Liz has to come to grips with the disappointments and betrayals in her own life. In the end, this is a story about redemption. And it is beautiful.
Thank you to Black Rose Press for the advance read on NetGalley.
The book opens with Liz, a single mom, receiving a call from her ex that every parent dreads: her daughter Jess has had a car accident. But it gets worse: a pedestrian was killed. And not just any pedestrian, but the beloved football coach in their small, football-crazy Texas town. And maybe she was texting when it happened. “Maybe,” because Jess can’t remember.
The rest of the book follows the emotional, engrossing journey of mother and daughter as they navigate the long-term repercussions of single, momentary mistake. It also sheds light on the best and the worst that humanity can be in a time of tragedy. With trash being dumped on their lawn, spray paint on the sidewalk, and a best friend who’s dumped her, Jess feels her life is over—and Liz isn’t far behind. But they find support in surprising places: a lawyer. A school counselor. A nerdy next door neighbor boy. While Jess tries to forgive herself, Liz has to come to grips with the disappointments and betrayals in her own life. In the end, this is a story about redemption. And it is beautiful.
Thank you to Black Rose Press for the advance read on NetGalley.
June 27, 2021
I've been interested in the topic of forgiveness, and the ways in which we can (or cannot) put our lives back together after making a colossal mistake (especially one that involves taking the life of another person), for a long time. So of course I was excited to read this dual pov story of a family trying to find their way through the shattered pieces of their lives following an accident for which their teenage daughter was responsible, and that resulted in the death of their small Texas town's beloved football coach. It's about those bad decisions we all make that, had we been unlucky enough, could have had the most terrible of consequences; about the unlucky people for whom that bad decision does have those unthinkable consequences; and about allowing ourselves to forgive others, and ourselves, for the kinds of mistakes that forever alter the course of our lives. Achterberg gives the reader a lot to think about in this novel about a teenager who could be any one of us, and a family that could be any of ours.
December 18, 2020
This is a work of fiction. However, the story rings too true. This could my story. This could be yours. The events are very real. You will come to know the characters and their friends like they were your neighbors.
This is a story of how quickly lives can be changed by tragedy and how difficult it can be to rebuild those lives and return to a place of normalcy, especially in Small Town, USA. It is also a story about forgiveness, building relationships and finding out who your true friends are and what matters most in life.
Achterberg is a superb storyteller and you will not want to put this book down.
This is a story of how quickly lives can be changed by tragedy and how difficult it can be to rebuild those lives and return to a place of normalcy, especially in Small Town, USA. It is also a story about forgiveness, building relationships and finding out who your true friends are and what matters most in life.
Achterberg is a superb storyteller and you will not want to put this book down.
January 9, 2021
Blind Turn was such a well written novel. What begins as a tragedy ends with hope and self discovery. Jess Johnson was a seemingly normal, moody teenager who had a great life ahead of her until she was involved in a fatal car accident in her small town of Texas. Her life is turned upside down and the one person she thought she could count on is against her. I love how Cara Sue Achterberg seamlessly weaves so many important themes in this novel like friendship, love, family, grief, bullying, guilt and acceptance. Each character's story is intertwined so nicely together and each character plays a role in Jess' fate. This was such a quick read but was also very impactful. I can't wait to see what Cara comes out with next!
January 2, 2021
BLIND TURN, by Cara Sue Achterberg, is the story of a teenage girl who hits and kills a man while driving and possibly texting. I prepared myself for a sad story, but this novel is so much more. What starts as a simple story about one girl's misfortune turns into a cautionary tale. Who among us has not glanced at our phone while driving? This story illuminates how one mistake can change the lives of many people—possibly even end someone's life. But BLIND TURN then grows into a story about forgiveness: how and why to forgive others, and the importance of forgiving one's self, because we have all made mistakes, we are all human.
Set in a small Texas town where football is practically a religion, Jessica Johnson has killed the town's beloved football coach. Everyone, especially Jessica, is devastated. Her divorced parents knew and loved Coach Mitchell. The characters are well-drawn, relatable people with personal, familial, and financial troubles. As each character struggles through his/her own circumstances, it becomes nearly impossible to put the book down as the girl's trial approaches. Will she or won't she go to prison?
But there's another interesting social dynamic that Achterberg may or may not have intended. In BLIND TURN, Jessica is a "good teenager" and the victim is a town hero. Both of those factors up the intensity of the story, but this is a sad reality in America that has only recently come to light. If the driver were a young black male, for example, would the reaction of the small town and the outcome have been the same? If the victim had been a homeless person or unknown neighbor would the reaction and outcome have been the same? Research has shown that attractive blond children who have gone missing are more likely to receive national attention than poor or disadvantaged children. That is so sad. We should care for everyone as if he or she were a good, beloved, attractive friend. Because, we are all human.
BLIND TURN shines a light on the power of humanity.
FIVE intense STARS
Set in a small Texas town where football is practically a religion, Jessica Johnson has killed the town's beloved football coach. Everyone, especially Jessica, is devastated. Her divorced parents knew and loved Coach Mitchell. The characters are well-drawn, relatable people with personal, familial, and financial troubles. As each character struggles through his/her own circumstances, it becomes nearly impossible to put the book down as the girl's trial approaches. Will she or won't she go to prison?
But there's another interesting social dynamic that Achterberg may or may not have intended. In BLIND TURN, Jessica is a "good teenager" and the victim is a town hero. Both of those factors up the intensity of the story, but this is a sad reality in America that has only recently come to light. If the driver were a young black male, for example, would the reaction of the small town and the outcome have been the same? If the victim had been a homeless person or unknown neighbor would the reaction and outcome have been the same? Research has shown that attractive blond children who have gone missing are more likely to receive national attention than poor or disadvantaged children. That is so sad. We should care for everyone as if he or she were a good, beloved, attractive friend. Because, we are all human.
BLIND TURN shines a light on the power of humanity.
FIVE intense STARS
December 12, 2020
What an outstanding book! From the first few sentences, I knew this was going to be a story that I just fell into, tumbling into the pages, completely invested in the characters and what was happening to them.
Blind Turn is a story that is a parent’s nightmare. A daughter’s split-second driving mistaken ends in the death of a beloved football coach. The community is outraged. Their impact on both mother and daughter created a last impression on me. I enjoyed that this story was written from dual points of view. I liked seeing how the mother was thinking, and then how the daughter was thinking.
This is a perfect book club pick! It will bring so much discussion to the group. The mother and daughter’s differences, in thought and action, brought such a great view to the story. The mother’s decisions to protect her daughter will bring up a lot of discussion around how far you would go to protect a loved one. This also takes place in a small town, and that setting provides a different type of community reaction from what we would have seen in a large city. I think a book club could have more than one meeting’s worth of discussion time on this one!
I loved how the story unfolds. We start with the mother’s POV, and it’s just everything I think it would be if this was happening to me. She’s frantic, confused, and worried for her daughter. The author’s writing brought all of the character’s emotions out in me. Then we switch to the daughter, and there’s a whole new perspective to view the situation from. It was great!
Overall, I thought this was an excellent book. It is well-written, and while fast-paced, will make you sit back and think about everything happening!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Blind Turn is a story that is a parent’s nightmare. A daughter’s split-second driving mistaken ends in the death of a beloved football coach. The community is outraged. Their impact on both mother and daughter created a last impression on me. I enjoyed that this story was written from dual points of view. I liked seeing how the mother was thinking, and then how the daughter was thinking.
This is a perfect book club pick! It will bring so much discussion to the group. The mother and daughter’s differences, in thought and action, brought such a great view to the story. The mother’s decisions to protect her daughter will bring up a lot of discussion around how far you would go to protect a loved one. This also takes place in a small town, and that setting provides a different type of community reaction from what we would have seen in a large city. I think a book club could have more than one meeting’s worth of discussion time on this one!
I loved how the story unfolds. We start with the mother’s POV, and it’s just everything I think it would be if this was happening to me. She’s frantic, confused, and worried for her daughter. The author’s writing brought all of the character’s emotions out in me. Then we switch to the daughter, and there’s a whole new perspective to view the situation from. It was great!
Overall, I thought this was an excellent book. It is well-written, and while fast-paced, will make you sit back and think about everything happening!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
April 9, 2021
**I received this ARC via LibraryThing in exchange for my honest review**
Blind Turn is a work of fiction but it tells the all-true story for so many people. When Jess Johnson makes one, seemingly innocent mistake, she changes her life forever. This could be the story of anyone that made a mistake behind the wheel. For me, it brought up memories of my own brother's horrific car crash that caused his neck to be broken, one passenger to die, and the teenage driver to go to jail. This book tells the story of so many families that have to deal with tragedy after a car accident. It is a gentle reminder, though, that even when you think there is no hope, everything will work out ok in the end.
Blind Turn is a work of fiction but it tells the all-true story for so many people. When Jess Johnson makes one, seemingly innocent mistake, she changes her life forever. This could be the story of anyone that made a mistake behind the wheel. For me, it brought up memories of my own brother's horrific car crash that caused his neck to be broken, one passenger to die, and the teenage driver to go to jail. This book tells the story of so many families that have to deal with tragedy after a car accident. It is a gentle reminder, though, that even when you think there is no hope, everything will work out ok in the end.
Read
January 6, 2021Blind Turn is a story with everything. Wonderful characters you begin to think are your friends. Real situations and story lines that could be your own life. Nothing is sugar coated. My absolute favorite part of the story is learning about forgiveness from Coach Mitchell’s wife, Helen. We need more Helens in this world. A character who makes me cry is a big deal to me. Jess learning about taking responsibility was also huge. Great life lessons that everyone could benefit from.
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