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What If?
Anna has the perfect life. She is charming, young and beautiful. She lives in a sought-after location in London with her doting husband, David. She is close to her parents and has a supportive group of friends. She has never wanted for anything and always gets her way. But things are not always as they seem…
Could a minor, inconsequential accident on a cold Valentine’s Day alter the trajectory of Anna’s life?
It is human nature to question how pivotal events have shaped our lives and those closest to us. We are often left wondering how things could have turned out if the cards had fallen differently. This novel explores both scenarios in two distinct parts. The reader discovers the impact that one moment has on Anna’s future and the consequences for all that she holds dear.
Who doesn’t wonder: what if life had taken a different path?
Could a minor, inconsequential accident on a cold Valentine’s Day alter the trajectory of Anna’s life?
It is human nature to question how pivotal events have shaped our lives and those closest to us. We are often left wondering how things could have turned out if the cards had fallen differently. This novel explores both scenarios in two distinct parts. The reader discovers the impact that one moment has on Anna’s future and the consequences for all that she holds dear.
Who doesn’t wonder: what if life had taken a different path?
386 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
February 9, 2022
Extract from the first page
‘Your right’, he said and leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. ‘I’m relieved that your divorce is finally going through so we can be together properly.’
‘Cheers to us!’ Belle said and downed the rest of her wine.
‘Actually, I got you a little something.’ Gary said as he rummage in his pocket.
He pulled out a small box covered in sparkly pink wrapping paper out and placed it next to her empty glass.
‘ Oh Gary! Can I open it now?’
‘Of course you can, that’s kind of the point.’ Gary said.
She playfully punched his shoulder, almost knocking her wine glass over in the process.
Her newly manicured nails sparkled in the candle light as she unwrapped her gift.
‘It’s not much but..’
‘Oh I love it. I just love it,!’
After that they kissed, Gary placed the silver bracelet with the heart charm from Pandora on her wrist. He glanced at his own wrist, which sported the latest Suunto Spartan watch to keep track of all his steps and exercise sessions.
‘Best get you home,’ he said.
Once Belle has finished her enormous dessert and he had paid the bill they stepped into the cold night.Gary carefully led her down a side street to where he had parked his car.
‘Your such a sweetheart, but you didn’t have to pay the whole bill, you know. I’ve got plenty of cash,’ Belle said, slurring her words.
Gary sighed. ‘ I’m aware of that but I like to treat you when I can. Besides, I don’t want any of his money.’
‘Also, I could just get the bus,’ she said as she slid on an icy bit of the pavement.
Can one moment changed your life forever?
‘Your right’, he said and leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. ‘I’m relieved that your divorce is finally going through so we can be together properly.’
‘Cheers to us!’ Belle said and downed the rest of her wine.
‘Actually, I got you a little something.’ Gary said as he rummage in his pocket.
He pulled out a small box covered in sparkly pink wrapping paper out and placed it next to her empty glass.
‘ Oh Gary! Can I open it now?’
‘Of course you can, that’s kind of the point.’ Gary said.
She playfully punched his shoulder, almost knocking her wine glass over in the process.
Her newly manicured nails sparkled in the candle light as she unwrapped her gift.
‘It’s not much but..’
‘Oh I love it. I just love it,!’
After that they kissed, Gary placed the silver bracelet with the heart charm from Pandora on her wrist. He glanced at his own wrist, which sported the latest Suunto Spartan watch to keep track of all his steps and exercise sessions.
‘Best get you home,’ he said.
Once Belle has finished her enormous dessert and he had paid the bill they stepped into the cold night.Gary carefully led her down a side street to where he had parked his car.
‘Your such a sweetheart, but you didn’t have to pay the whole bill, you know. I’ve got plenty of cash,’ Belle said, slurring her words.
Gary sighed. ‘ I’m aware of that but I like to treat you when I can. Besides, I don’t want any of his money.’
‘Also, I could just get the bus,’ she said as she slid on an icy bit of the pavement.
Can one moment changed your life forever?
August 13, 2021
I do sometimes wonder what if, how different would my life be now had I taken a different path or made a different decision…If you read this book, then I guarantee you will be left wondering the same thing
What If? follows Anna and the two paths her life takes after a car accident. I have to say that I was not a fan of Anna’s at first, but I felt that I warmed to her towards the end. Both David and Jane are likeable characters.
I did have an idea of how the book would end, but it was how I wanted it to end: perfectly.
This book reminded me of the film Sliding Doors, which I love. It’s well-written, with nice short chapters. It feels like a good summer read. A great debut novel. I would definitely read more by this author.
What If? follows Anna and the two paths her life takes after a car accident. I have to say that I was not a fan of Anna’s at first, but I felt that I warmed to her towards the end. Both David and Jane are likeable characters.
I did have an idea of how the book would end, but it was how I wanted it to end: perfectly.
This book reminded me of the film Sliding Doors, which I love. It’s well-written, with nice short chapters. It feels like a good summer read. A great debut novel. I would definitely read more by this author.
July 18, 2021
Like the “what if”
How often have you thought “what if” in your life?
It’s a fascinating question and I like how this book addressed it with two scenarios.
But while some details were slightly different, both (near) endings were very similar. But maybe that was the point, we all end up pretty much in the same place regardless of the details.
The story was entertaining and I ended up pulling for the MC even after she was originally painted as shallow.
A few instances of using the wrong “you’re.” Not being critical just making suggestions for a future printing.
All around enjoyable read.
How often have you thought “what if” in your life?
It’s a fascinating question and I like how this book addressed it with two scenarios.
But while some details were slightly different, both (near) endings were very similar. But maybe that was the point, we all end up pretty much in the same place regardless of the details.
The story was entertaining and I ended up pulling for the MC even after she was originally painted as shallow.
A few instances of using the wrong “you’re.” Not being critical just making suggestions for a future printing.
All around enjoyable read.
July 31, 2021
Let me start off by saying I devoured this book and this got me out of a month long reading slump!! The chapters are so fast paced and it was such a quick and easy read which is amazing. The most important part of this book for me was how much Anna changed. I loved that we could see her change in thoughts over time and how she really matured and learned to handle bad situations a bit better. Does she still have a long way to go? Yes. But she is certainly on the right track. From being introduced in the beginning of the book as quite a shallow person, I was surprised at how much I was actually rooting for her at the end. Another thing I also liked is that this book had multiple scenarios. It had 2 main ones with a smaller one at the end which sort of brought the 2 together. The second scenario was definitely my favourite as this is where I felt the most growth from Anna. However, this could feel slightly repetitive at some points. The ending was really sweet and just tied the whole story together really nicely. It is based around a cheating/affair trope so watch out for that if it’s not something you enjoy. Although I should emphasise it’s not very detailed around that and that’s sort of just a small foundation for the book. Overall I’m pleased with this book and for a debut novel Sinead Courtney has done well☺️
August 17, 2021
Sinead Courtney has absolutely smashed it with her debut novel.
I loved the idea of the sliding doors concept which is what made me sign up for the tour and I was curious as to how it would be executed. I thought that the two different sides to the story could lead to confusion but this was written so well and executed perfectly.
The book is written in two parts each telling the story in a different way and then meeting at the end. The second part of the story seemed quicker to read than the first, I guess because you already know some of the plot but it was really interesting to read it with a different perspective.
I really wasn't a big fan of the main protagonist, Anna, at the start of the book, you'll understand why if you read it but she did start to redeem herself as the story went on and by the end I quite liked her and the person she had grown into. Melody was a very intriguing character and really gave a different edge to the plot, I loved the sub story that involved her.
I was curious about the ending the whole way through the book, definite will they/won't they vibes and it didn't disappoint. It was wrapped up perfectly and I got the ending I was hoping for.
I loved the idea of the sliding doors concept which is what made me sign up for the tour and I was curious as to how it would be executed. I thought that the two different sides to the story could lead to confusion but this was written so well and executed perfectly.
The book is written in two parts each telling the story in a different way and then meeting at the end. The second part of the story seemed quicker to read than the first, I guess because you already know some of the plot but it was really interesting to read it with a different perspective.
I really wasn't a big fan of the main protagonist, Anna, at the start of the book, you'll understand why if you read it but she did start to redeem herself as the story went on and by the end I quite liked her and the person she had grown into. Melody was a very intriguing character and really gave a different edge to the plot, I loved the sub story that involved her.
I was curious about the ending the whole way through the book, definite will they/won't they vibes and it didn't disappoint. It was wrapped up perfectly and I got the ending I was hoping for.
August 30, 2021
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
I really enjoyed this book. I found the plot to be engaging and despite Anna’s flaws I still rooted for her in both timelines.
I also liked the way the book was structured. Every other book that I’ve read with a similar premise has alternated the timelines by chapter, but I actually preferred the way each separate reality has it’s own section of the book dedicated to it. And I absolutely loved the ending of the book! It was nice to see that, regardless of whichever reality actually occurred, Anna still grew as a person and ended up in the same place. I know a lot of people root for a love story ending, but I thought it was refreshing to see her happy and independent in the end. It was one of my favorite character growth arcs I’ve read in a while.
I’m looking forward to reading any future novels by this author.
I really enjoyed this book. I found the plot to be engaging and despite Anna’s flaws I still rooted for her in both timelines.
I also liked the way the book was structured. Every other book that I’ve read with a similar premise has alternated the timelines by chapter, but I actually preferred the way each separate reality has it’s own section of the book dedicated to it. And I absolutely loved the ending of the book! It was nice to see that, regardless of whichever reality actually occurred, Anna still grew as a person and ended up in the same place. I know a lot of people root for a love story ending, but I thought it was refreshing to see her happy and independent in the end. It was one of my favorite character growth arcs I’ve read in a while.
I’m looking forward to reading any future novels by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2021
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author through voracious readers only in exchange for my honest review. I liked the concept of this book, it is styled on a 'sliding doors' concept and tells the story of Annabelle and David. The first half of the book sets out the story of annabelle and David"s relationship and the eventual consequences of Annabelle's affair, the second half of the book takes the same storyline but with tweaks to the narrative which gives a totally different outcome. It shows how momentary decisions can effect things differently - hence 'what if'. This was an interesting book, I enjoyed the storyline and i would be interested in reading more books by this author.
June 4, 2021
What If is a book about a young woman who makes a big mistake and the author tells the mistake in two different scenarios and what would've happened in each of them. The story definitely had a lot of potential in places but I spent a lot of the time wondering if there was going to be a big plot twist or at least something that shocked me.
The writing needs improving grammatically but for the first novel by Courtney, I won't hold it against her.
I definitely didn't enjoy the first half of the book due to being confused about the plot but reading the alternative scenario and comparing it to the first was a lot of fun.
The writing needs improving grammatically but for the first novel by Courtney, I won't hold it against her.
I definitely didn't enjoy the first half of the book due to being confused about the plot but reading the alternative scenario and comparing it to the first was a lot of fun.
May 16, 2021
A very joyful read!
Thoroughly enjoyed the book!
I just couldn’t put it down, wanting to know what happens next and the storyline just gripped me;
I believe many of us will ask the forever question of “what if?” In life, what if life took a different turn at one point, what if I didn’t go down that road that day, what if I didn’t chose him or her.
I guess in the end, it’s us who decide our own destiny, and no body else, realising it not.
Thoroughly enjoyed the book!
I just couldn’t put it down, wanting to know what happens next and the storyline just gripped me;
I believe many of us will ask the forever question of “what if?” In life, what if life took a different turn at one point, what if I didn’t go down that road that day, what if I didn’t chose him or her.
I guess in the end, it’s us who decide our own destiny, and no body else, realising it not.
August 15, 2021
What a great debut read! I really enjoyed the solid plot and the characters. Characters were were developed so well and made me rethink my life choices. Absolutely loved the description of London and it brought so many good memories.
The writing style is flawless and easy to follow. With short chapters, I was able to finish the book in two days. Definitely recommend this book and I can not wait for the second book.
The writing style is flawless and easy to follow. With short chapters, I was able to finish the book in two days. Definitely recommend this book and I can not wait for the second book.
September 1, 2021
I could not put this book down! What a brilliant premise for a story. I loved seeing the different sides of Anna as we explored the different scenarios. There was a little unexpected twist thrown in which I really enjoyed. I just wanted to keep reading to find out what happened next. A brilliant story about finding yourself and putting yourself first.
August 3, 2021
A perfect read for the summer holidays. A well written novel with a pinch of romance, a dollop of suspense, blended with an array of tasty characters and a surprise outcome that is the cherry on the cake. It felt like sipping on a delicious cocktail that you just can't put down.
August 25, 2021
very enjoyable read and an accomplished debut novel. Anna started out shallow but developed depth as the book progressed. received as a complimentary copy from the author via Voracious Readers Only in return for an honest review.
August 28, 2021
Well written and engrossing
Great idea, a bit 'Sliding doors' but very well written and thought provoking. Would recommend. Look forward to author's next book.
Great idea, a bit 'Sliding doors' but very well written and thought provoking. Would recommend. Look forward to author's next book.
September 21, 2024
A but dragged on and a little confusing
April 28, 2021
Engrossing
I loved the main character, and the storyline was really well thought out. Great debut, I hope this new author continues writing (maybe with the a sequel for Annabelle :)
I loved the main character, and the storyline was really well thought out. Great debut, I hope this new author continues writing (maybe with the a sequel for Annabelle :)
August 8, 2021
I think we have all wondered What If? At some time in our lives, even to such things as what if? I had taken a different route home. To bigger decisions like what if? I hadn’t married my first husband how would my life have turned out.
With this story the author looks at two versions of one story, in part one Anna the main protagonist in both parts is married to David she has what others see as the perfect life, she wants for nothing. David will provide anything she asks for. But is her life that perfect? She is having an affair with her PT Gary, she has told him her marriage is over, that David is an awful person. But is she really planning to leave her perfect house to live in a shared house with Gary and his 3 mates? Her latest idea is to become a yoga teacher, but we learn she has done lots of things on a whim is this just another whim? She meets Melody who knows Anna from school although Anna doesn’t recognise Melody. But is Melody up to something? David works a lot, then plays golf on Saturday, leaving Anna with a lot of time on her own. David wants to have a family but is that what Anna wants? David spends a lot of time with a colleague at work Jane.
In part two, the story is similar but this time David sees Belle (her real name is Annabelle) with her lover Gary. She ends up moving in with Gary and his friends, which is so out of her comfort zone, things do take a different twist as to how things move along. Melody works behind a bar and gets Belle a job, but again does she have a motive? David misses Anna but doesn’t really make much of an attempt to talk to her. His work suffers initially, but Jane is there to help him.
Despite both stories being similar there are different parts in it, as to which way parts of the story goes. I found Anna to be a very spoilt brat at times, she wants everything her way. But then equally I found David to be a bit of a misogynist more so in the first part as he is clear he wants Anna at home to raise their children, but would he change? Would he have spent less time at the office? Or would his life have stayed the same but he would have children to come home to as well as his wife? I got the feeling for him nothing would have changed.
In part two Anna is still a spoilt brat but she does get a lesson as to what it’s like in the real world, where she doesn’t have her designer clothes, she has to earn some money to pay towards keep whilst living in the house share with Gary. David goes into pity mode initially but then gets back into his work routine again after he realises he isn’t doing his job well and almost loses a big client. Jane is there to cover for him.
I did wonder what David and Anna had in common although when they met Anna also worked at the same company as David, she has a degree and is quite capable of doing the job, but she has left to stay at home, I got the impression that was David’s idea but not too sure on that.
This is an easy light read, a debut novel. Which is ok, my only slight criticism is that it needs to be proof read as there were a few spelling and grammar errors, which can be a little off putting. But overall an entertaining read. I look forward to see what the author comes up with next. The characters were believable, the story flowed well and the premise was good.
I would like to thank @TheBookNetwork and the author for my copy of the book.
With this story the author looks at two versions of one story, in part one Anna the main protagonist in both parts is married to David she has what others see as the perfect life, she wants for nothing. David will provide anything she asks for. But is her life that perfect? She is having an affair with her PT Gary, she has told him her marriage is over, that David is an awful person. But is she really planning to leave her perfect house to live in a shared house with Gary and his 3 mates? Her latest idea is to become a yoga teacher, but we learn she has done lots of things on a whim is this just another whim? She meets Melody who knows Anna from school although Anna doesn’t recognise Melody. But is Melody up to something? David works a lot, then plays golf on Saturday, leaving Anna with a lot of time on her own. David wants to have a family but is that what Anna wants? David spends a lot of time with a colleague at work Jane.
In part two, the story is similar but this time David sees Belle (her real name is Annabelle) with her lover Gary. She ends up moving in with Gary and his friends, which is so out of her comfort zone, things do take a different twist as to how things move along. Melody works behind a bar and gets Belle a job, but again does she have a motive? David misses Anna but doesn’t really make much of an attempt to talk to her. His work suffers initially, but Jane is there to help him.
Despite both stories being similar there are different parts in it, as to which way parts of the story goes. I found Anna to be a very spoilt brat at times, she wants everything her way. But then equally I found David to be a bit of a misogynist more so in the first part as he is clear he wants Anna at home to raise their children, but would he change? Would he have spent less time at the office? Or would his life have stayed the same but he would have children to come home to as well as his wife? I got the feeling for him nothing would have changed.
In part two Anna is still a spoilt brat but she does get a lesson as to what it’s like in the real world, where she doesn’t have her designer clothes, she has to earn some money to pay towards keep whilst living in the house share with Gary. David goes into pity mode initially but then gets back into his work routine again after he realises he isn’t doing his job well and almost loses a big client. Jane is there to cover for him.
I did wonder what David and Anna had in common although when they met Anna also worked at the same company as David, she has a degree and is quite capable of doing the job, but she has left to stay at home, I got the impression that was David’s idea but not too sure on that.
This is an easy light read, a debut novel. Which is ok, my only slight criticism is that it needs to be proof read as there were a few spelling and grammar errors, which can be a little off putting. But overall an entertaining read. I look forward to see what the author comes up with next. The characters were believable, the story flowed well and the premise was good.
I would like to thank @TheBookNetwork and the author for my copy of the book.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews