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The Girl in the Picture
As the newspaper clipping falls from the cardboard box Tegan takes in the woman in the picture: her chestnut hair, her eyes full of laughter, the way she nestles against the man beside her. And as she reads the words in the article, Tegan almost stops breathing. Was coming here a terrible mistake?
When Tegan’s family is torn apart by a terrible tragedy, she runs away in search of somewhere to keep safe from the past that haunts her, and the painful secrets she’s never told anyone. Arriving in Copper Canyon, Colorado, where wooden storefronts line the quiet streets and no-one knows her name, Tegan breathes easy for the first time in years. And when she grows close with Jack, another lost soul who won’t talk about his home, it seems she’s found the perfect companion to explore the mountain landscapes with.
But just as Tegan starts to think maybe safety isn’t a place, it’s a person, she notices the box of photos and newspaper clippings that Jack takes everywhere in the trunk of his car. Who is the woman in every frame? And why does she look so familiar…?
Tegan knows the only way to protect herself, and keep her dark family history locked away, is to discover more about the woman in Jack’s photos. But when she does, will the truth help her build a new life, or will it send her running once more?
An absolutely unforgettable and breathtaking novel about love, loss, and the secrets we’re all hiding. Perfect for fans of Kerry Fisher, Diane Chamberlain, and Kerry Lonsdale.
When Tegan’s family is torn apart by a terrible tragedy, she runs away in search of somewhere to keep safe from the past that haunts her, and the painful secrets she’s never told anyone. Arriving in Copper Canyon, Colorado, where wooden storefronts line the quiet streets and no-one knows her name, Tegan breathes easy for the first time in years. And when she grows close with Jack, another lost soul who won’t talk about his home, it seems she’s found the perfect companion to explore the mountain landscapes with.
But just as Tegan starts to think maybe safety isn’t a place, it’s a person, she notices the box of photos and newspaper clippings that Jack takes everywhere in the trunk of his car. Who is the woman in every frame? And why does she look so familiar…?
Tegan knows the only way to protect herself, and keep her dark family history locked away, is to discover more about the woman in Jack’s photos. But when she does, will the truth help her build a new life, or will it send her running once more?
An absolutely unforgettable and breathtaking novel about love, loss, and the secrets we’re all hiding. Perfect for fans of Kerry Fisher, Diane Chamberlain, and Kerry Lonsdale.
237 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2021
2925 people are currently reading
1455 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Wiesner
17 books946 followersMelissa Wiesner’s mother didn’t allow her to watch much TV as a child and instead, made her play with paint, colorful pipe cleaners, random bits of fabric, and all manner of other crafty things. This set Melissa up for a lifetime of creative pursuits, and it was only a matter of time before things took a bookish turn.
A night-owl, Melissa began writing novels when her early-to-bed family retired for the evening. She is the award-winning author of both emotional women’s fiction and romantic comedies. Melissa’s book, His Secret Daughter was an Amazon bestseller, The Second Chance Year was a Book of the Month add-on pick, and It All Comes Back to You will soon be translated into almost a dozen languages.
Along with her charming husband and two adorable children, Melissa splits her time between the big city of Pittsburgh, PA and rural West Virginia.
Sign up for Melissa's newsletter! https://www.melissawiesner.com/contact
Website: melissawiesner.com
Instagram: @melissawiesnerauthor
Facebook: MelissaWiesnerAuthor
A night-owl, Melissa began writing novels when her early-to-bed family retired for the evening. She is the award-winning author of both emotional women’s fiction and romantic comedies. Melissa’s book, His Secret Daughter was an Amazon bestseller, The Second Chance Year was a Book of the Month add-on pick, and It All Comes Back to You will soon be translated into almost a dozen languages.
Along with her charming husband and two adorable children, Melissa splits her time between the big city of Pittsburgh, PA and rural West Virginia.
Sign up for Melissa's newsletter! https://www.melissawiesner.com/contact
Website: melissawiesner.com
Instagram: @melissawiesnerauthor
Facebook: MelissaWiesnerAuthor
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
August 23, 2021
If there is ever a book that is going to speak to me, it will be one about a road trip. I’ve been the queen of road trips many times in my past, so this book was like another trip into memories of my own as I read it. The best books remind you of scenes from your own life, and this one does that for me. The main theme of this book is home. Tegan is searching for a home for herself and her brother. Jack is desperately trying to get back to his family home as he flees horrific memories from his past. Thrown together unexpectedly, they are an unlikely pair. Tegan, abandoned as a child, grew up wanting to be a writer. Jack is a wealthy attorney who is somewhat over-protected by his family. On the road, they grow from annoyance to acceptance to friendship and more. They also find there are lessons they can learn from each other and adventures they can take together.
I loved the fact that we are immediately thrown into Tegan’s life in a dramatic way at the start of the book, and by the time she meets Jack, you will find your heart already racing. The meeting with Jack is a collision of coincidences that starts an unforgettable journey. The road itself becomes almost a character in the story, as some of the situations they encounter can only occur on a long-distance highway adventure. The differences in their lives and personalities help build strength, as Tegan encourages Jack to sway from his well-planned path, and Jack convinces Tegan to use a little more caution. The Girl In The Picture is an emotional and inspirational story of heartbreak, adventure, letting go, and the search for home. It was a beautiful read.
I received a free copy of this novel via the publisher, Bookouture. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
I loved the fact that we are immediately thrown into Tegan’s life in a dramatic way at the start of the book, and by the time she meets Jack, you will find your heart already racing. The meeting with Jack is a collision of coincidences that starts an unforgettable journey. The road itself becomes almost a character in the story, as some of the situations they encounter can only occur on a long-distance highway adventure. The differences in their lives and personalities help build strength, as Tegan encourages Jack to sway from his well-planned path, and Jack convinces Tegan to use a little more caution. The Girl In The Picture is an emotional and inspirational story of heartbreak, adventure, letting go, and the search for home. It was a beautiful read.
I received a free copy of this novel via the publisher, Bookouture. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
August 14, 2021
This is a new author to me and I really enjoyed this latest book by her. It grabbed me from the very first page and I loved driving with them across the USA and making all the wonderful stops they made. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. I really liked this one!
July 28, 2021
This up-and-coming author has a refreshing writing style that instantly hooks readers! It’s no coincidence that Wiesner’s writing will give you the sense that you’ve been dropped into a scene. She studied film production in college and as a filmmaker she was a visual storyteller before a written one. Wiesner has been trained to write as though you are sitting in a theatre and it shows in her novels.
After film school, the author got a degree in counselling and entered social work. She admits that she’s used her training as a therapist in her writing. Much of her work, both writing and counselling, is about personal interactions – learning people’s struggles, their history, and empowering them to overcome obstacles. Her fictional characters have complicated and compelling backstories that brought them to the moment readers encounter them. Wiesner uses the strengths-based perspective in her writing and tells stories of strength, resilience and overcoming adversity. Her characters get knocked down, experience hard times and always pick themselves up and keep going. They follow their dreams, work hard at healing from painful pasts and fall in love. Wiesner believes in facing adversity with humour and readers will notice her characters are stronger for it.
Wiesner lives in the city where the protagonist and her brother live in this story, and although a city girl, she is fascinated by the country and seeps through into her writing. Her desire to be somewhere where everyone knows her name, where neighbours work together and where generations grow up in the same place is reflected in the setting of Copper Canyon and Falls Creek.
You can read the synopsis online, but at the core of this compelling tale are two characters who are trying to deal with grief and overcome painful losses. It’s a story about the lies we tell ourselves, how far we’ll go to protect the ones we love and what it means to be lost and then found again.
Wonderfully penned and laced with authentic emotion-filled scenes, I was truly hooked from page one to the last sentence. I loved her debut novel, “Her Family Secret,” but I feel this novel will always have a special place in my heart. I was filleted open and empowered with raw emotion….her authentic characters will stay with me for a long time. I look forward to her third book, which also deals with a heavy topic and has no release date yet. It is about a young woman who has to face the fallout of her mother’s battle with opioid addiction.
If you haven't read anything by this author yet, please take a chance on her novels. You won't be disappointed.
Publishes August 23, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Melissa Wiesner, Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
After film school, the author got a degree in counselling and entered social work. She admits that she’s used her training as a therapist in her writing. Much of her work, both writing and counselling, is about personal interactions – learning people’s struggles, their history, and empowering them to overcome obstacles. Her fictional characters have complicated and compelling backstories that brought them to the moment readers encounter them. Wiesner uses the strengths-based perspective in her writing and tells stories of strength, resilience and overcoming adversity. Her characters get knocked down, experience hard times and always pick themselves up and keep going. They follow their dreams, work hard at healing from painful pasts and fall in love. Wiesner believes in facing adversity with humour and readers will notice her characters are stronger for it.
Wiesner lives in the city where the protagonist and her brother live in this story, and although a city girl, she is fascinated by the country and seeps through into her writing. Her desire to be somewhere where everyone knows her name, where neighbours work together and where generations grow up in the same place is reflected in the setting of Copper Canyon and Falls Creek.
You can read the synopsis online, but at the core of this compelling tale are two characters who are trying to deal with grief and overcome painful losses. It’s a story about the lies we tell ourselves, how far we’ll go to protect the ones we love and what it means to be lost and then found again.
Wonderfully penned and laced with authentic emotion-filled scenes, I was truly hooked from page one to the last sentence. I loved her debut novel, “Her Family Secret,” but I feel this novel will always have a special place in my heart. I was filleted open and empowered with raw emotion….her authentic characters will stay with me for a long time. I look forward to her third book, which also deals with a heavy topic and has no release date yet. It is about a young woman who has to face the fallout of her mother’s battle with opioid addiction.
If you haven't read anything by this author yet, please take a chance on her novels. You won't be disappointed.
Publishes August 23, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Melissa Wiesner, Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
October 25, 2023
It's a Hallmark movie waiting to be made. They used the word "scrubbed" four times. As in, "he scrubbed a hand over his face." I cannot stand this word in books, we never use it in real life, and using it more than twice gets a book blacklisted for me. Also the characters seemingly knew each other inside out. The phrase, "he knew her well enough to know that..." Was probably used 5 or 6 times. They knew each other for less than a month, so I don't buy that.
August 10, 2021
A BOOK PERFECTLY PORTRAYING ALL THE BEAUTY OF DIFFERENT KINDS OF LOVE WE HAVE ON EARTH(especially siblings)
AND THE IMPACT OF HOPE & STRENGTH WITHIN US .
This book was an patchwork quilt of a stunning sunset replicating all the truths, joys, love, ugly hurt and sufferings of life overcome with a desire for hope and love
This book has just made my made, I remember the night I completed reading it.. my tear traced cheeks fully dried and a small smile on lips with a contented sigh and longing to be a better human and show more love to those all around me
To be wanted to remembered for my love and character
This was an Amazing road travel love and life journey ,there was humor laced all through with honesty.
Truly, the characters face everything life throws at time.. I am just pulled into it right away from the first line.. I was torn for Tegan .
I always wanted stories to see harsh reality and overcome it .. This was excatly that.
Trust me, you'll fall in love with every character
Those characters and all that they went through was worth my tears
(I guess I cried because I lost my grandpa to cancer and remember all that he went through due to it.. I remember his last day .. It felt I was through that day again reading this book)
Highly recommended !!
AND THE IMPACT OF HOPE & STRENGTH WITHIN US .
This book was an patchwork quilt of a stunning sunset replicating all the truths, joys, love, ugly hurt and sufferings of life overcome with a desire for hope and love
This book has just made my made, I remember the night I completed reading it.. my tear traced cheeks fully dried and a small smile on lips with a contented sigh and longing to be a better human and show more love to those all around me
To be wanted to remembered for my love and character
This was an Amazing road travel love and life journey ,there was humor laced all through with honesty.
Truly, the characters face everything life throws at time.. I am just pulled into it right away from the first line.. I was torn for Tegan .
I always wanted stories to see harsh reality and overcome it .. This was excatly that.
Trust me, you'll fall in love with every character
Those characters and all that they went through was worth my tears
(I guess I cried because I lost my grandpa to cancer and remember all that he went through due to it.. I remember his last day .. It felt I was through that day again reading this book)
Highly recommended !!
December 15, 2023
Tegan is a brat. She’s rude, inconsiderate, selfish and entitled. She needs a ride somewhere and she gets one but spends the whole time being an ass and telling the other person to f off. And of course they end up falling in love 🙄
August 24, 2021
Another amazing book by Melissa Wiesner! Where the last one made me want to paint, this one has me packing my bags for a road trip across America to contemplate things like how many eggs can you cook in the world’s largest frying pan? I loved that these two both had loving families behind them although there are some rocky parts in hers, she and her brother were very close.
This is the story about Tegan and Jack. An opposites attract story. She’s a bit of a hippie in his eyes, and he’s a corporate snob in hers, but somehow when Tegan gets him out of a “Can’t pay the bill at the diner that only takes cash” jam, and he gets her from point A to point B “can’t get a ride out of this town jam” they hit it off marvelously. She’s just the distraction he needs after a life changing event. And he’s just the person to get her talking about her own life instead of writing about it.
Oddly, I knew I was going to really like Jack because in the very beginning I didn’t like him much at all. It’s those nice character arcs that can be so satisfying and I just knew and had faith that his would be amazing. When did this story have me? When she shook a red twizzler at him. I could smell it, taste it, and see the look on his face because the sticky ropes were jammed in his pristine cup holders. Who can resist a heroine who’s liable to stick her feet on the dashboard (I do this) and eat dessert first (I’d like to do this).
Strangers to friends to confidants to lovers… very nicely done. And seriously, I’m looking at my travel trailer and wondering when I can plan a nice random, see the sites, trip.
Well written, and a book I read in two sittings only because it was too late to do it in one! A girls gotta sleep somewhere around 3am.
“You have to keep going because you never know what unexpected turn you’ll end up taking…” ~Jack
This is the story about Tegan and Jack. An opposites attract story. She’s a bit of a hippie in his eyes, and he’s a corporate snob in hers, but somehow when Tegan gets him out of a “Can’t pay the bill at the diner that only takes cash” jam, and he gets her from point A to point B “can’t get a ride out of this town jam” they hit it off marvelously. She’s just the distraction he needs after a life changing event. And he’s just the person to get her talking about her own life instead of writing about it.
Oddly, I knew I was going to really like Jack because in the very beginning I didn’t like him much at all. It’s those nice character arcs that can be so satisfying and I just knew and had faith that his would be amazing. When did this story have me? When she shook a red twizzler at him. I could smell it, taste it, and see the look on his face because the sticky ropes were jammed in his pristine cup holders. Who can resist a heroine who’s liable to stick her feet on the dashboard (I do this) and eat dessert first (I’d like to do this).
Strangers to friends to confidants to lovers… very nicely done. And seriously, I’m looking at my travel trailer and wondering when I can plan a nice random, see the sites, trip.
Well written, and a book I read in two sittings only because it was too late to do it in one! A girls gotta sleep somewhere around 3am.
“You have to keep going because you never know what unexpected turn you’ll end up taking…” ~Jack
August 28, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Girl In The Picture' by Melissa Wiesner.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Melissa Wiesner, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 23rd August 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'Her Family Secret' which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Kerry Fisher, Diane Chamberlain, and Kerry Lonsdale.' I am a huge fan of Kerry Fisher and Diane Chamberlain so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Melissa Wiesner and if this is half as good as 'Her Family Secret' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 38 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is set in Colorado, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Tegan and Jack. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'The Girl In The Picture' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Melissa discusses/includes cancer and death of a loved one.
Another absolutely gorgeous book Melissa well done!!! This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions that absolutely captivate America and brings it to life. The cover and synopsis suit the plot perfectly.
The storyline is a rollercoaster of emotions from love to loss, secrets to regrets and lost chances. It is so heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. I was absolutely captivated and absorbed throughout, a beautiful page turner. It is one of this books that will give you hope and happiness when your feeling down. I was addicted to this gorgeous novel. The setting is gorgeous and it makes me want to up and leave on a road trip. The ending was absolutely perfect and I am so glad it ended the way it did. I loved discovering all the different countries and towns on the road trip that I really felt that I was on, I was devastated when I realised I had come to the end and had to unpack my bags. I absolutely loved staying in motels, trying different foods in different diners, discovering the rocky mountains, meeting new people and the feel for community in small town America and watching the binding between Tegan and Jack. I laughed, smiled, felt angry and upset and she'd tears. This book is heartwarming and heartbreaking, uplifting and just an absolutely stunning addictive page turner.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
The characters were realistic and each had their own unique personalities. I loved how circumstances went from so bleak for many of them to working out the way it did. Where there is rain there will be a rainbow and this book and the characters really do show this. I loved the bond between Tegan and Jack and Tegan and Jamie and how Jack and Tegan overcame what was thrown at them. I fell in love with each of them and my heart really went out to them for what each of them went through. I would love to read more about these amazing characters and discover more or small towns in America.
Congratulations Melissa on yet another absolutely stunning success. This would make an absolutely gorgeous movie and I am looking forward to your next successful novel!!!
Overall a gorgeous, addictive page turning heart breaking but at the same time heart warming page turner that will take your breathe away.
Genres covered in this novel include Holiday Fiction, Literary Fiction and Psychological Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Nicholas Sparks, Kerry Fisher, Diane Chamberlain and ANYONE looking for a beautiful escape.
247 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheGirlInThePictue #Bookouture #MelissaWiesner #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@MelissaWiesner @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'The Girl In The Picture' by Melissa Wiesner.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Melissa Wiesner, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 23rd August 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'Her Family Secret' which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Kerry Fisher, Diane Chamberlain, and Kerry Lonsdale.' I am a huge fan of Kerry Fisher and Diane Chamberlain so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Melissa Wiesner and if this is half as good as 'Her Family Secret' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 38 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is set in Colorado, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Tegan and Jack. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'The Girl In The Picture' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Melissa discusses/includes cancer and death of a loved one.
Another absolutely gorgeous book Melissa well done!!! This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions that absolutely captivate America and brings it to life. The cover and synopsis suit the plot perfectly.
The storyline is a rollercoaster of emotions from love to loss, secrets to regrets and lost chances. It is so heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. I was absolutely captivated and absorbed throughout, a beautiful page turner. It is one of this books that will give you hope and happiness when your feeling down. I was addicted to this gorgeous novel. The setting is gorgeous and it makes me want to up and leave on a road trip. The ending was absolutely perfect and I am so glad it ended the way it did. I loved discovering all the different countries and towns on the road trip that I really felt that I was on, I was devastated when I realised I had come to the end and had to unpack my bags. I absolutely loved staying in motels, trying different foods in different diners, discovering the rocky mountains, meeting new people and the feel for community in small town America and watching the binding between Tegan and Jack. I laughed, smiled, felt angry and upset and she'd tears. This book is heartwarming and heartbreaking, uplifting and just an absolutely stunning addictive page turner.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
The characters were realistic and each had their own unique personalities. I loved how circumstances went from so bleak for many of them to working out the way it did. Where there is rain there will be a rainbow and this book and the characters really do show this. I loved the bond between Tegan and Jack and Tegan and Jamie and how Jack and Tegan overcame what was thrown at them. I fell in love with each of them and my heart really went out to them for what each of them went through. I would love to read more about these amazing characters and discover more or small towns in America.
Congratulations Melissa on yet another absolutely stunning success. This would make an absolutely gorgeous movie and I am looking forward to your next successful novel!!!
Overall a gorgeous, addictive page turning heart breaking but at the same time heart warming page turner that will take your breathe away.
Genres covered in this novel include Holiday Fiction, Literary Fiction and Psychological Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Nicholas Sparks, Kerry Fisher, Diane Chamberlain and ANYONE looking for a beautiful escape.
247 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheGirlInThePictue #Bookouture #MelissaWiesner #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@MelissaWiesner @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
September 17, 2021
This book sent me on an emotional roller coaster ride. It was witty, mesmerising and heartwarming. One minute I was laughing with Jack and Tegan on their road trip and the next I was sobbing with them. It was fate that brought Jack and Tegan together.
The author had created a great premise for the book, it was beautiful and charming. The places they visited and the motels they stayed in. It's not important where you are, the important part is who you are with.
Readers who love to read about road trips and how two lost souls found each other would enjoy this book.
I've received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via VoraciousReadersOnly.
The author had created a great premise for the book, it was beautiful and charming. The places they visited and the motels they stayed in. It's not important where you are, the important part is who you are with.
Readers who love to read about road trips and how two lost souls found each other would enjoy this book.
I've received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via VoraciousReadersOnly.
March 9, 2024
I'm giving this book 2 stars for false advertising. The entire title and summary of the book, listed on both goodreads and hoopla (which is how I read/listened to this book) is a completely inaccurate description of this book. Lets pull some quotes from the description.
"Arriving in Copper Canyon, Colorado, where wooden storefronts line the quiet streets and no-one knows her name, Tegan breathes easy for the first time in years. And when she grows close with Jack, another lost soul who won’t talk about his home, it seems she’s found the perfect companion to explore the mountain landscapes with."
"But just as Tegan starts to think maybe safety isn’t a place, it’s a person, she notices the box of photos and newspaper clippings that Jack takes everywhere in the trunk of his car. Who is the woman in every frame? And why does she look so familiar…?"
When I read this, my assumption for the novel was small town mystery romance. Small town being Copper Canyon, and "why does she look so familiar" implies that something really interesting is going to happen with "The Girl in the Picture", the literal title of the book.
Neither of those is the case. This is a road trip book, with Copper Canyon being one stop along the way. And they stayed there for literally one night. Not even a significant portion of the book. Second, this book is not a mystery AT ALL. We know who the woman in the picture is, we know who she is the first time we see her. Tegan finds out who she is immediately too. The thought "why does she look so familiar" doesnt cross her mind at all.
If I was to give a summary of this book, the following is what I would include, and what I think other people should know before reading (I dont feel like making it flow well so pardon the style).
After years of being parented by her older brother, Tegan is finally proving her independence but embarking on a road trip across the US, on a mission to find the perfect small town to settle down in and complete her first novel. Not long into her trip, her car breaks down and she's resorted to hitch hiking across the US. Along the way, she hitches a ride with Jack, a stuffy lawyer who has meticulously mapped his way from San Francisco to New York City, optimizing the most straightforward route. As Jack and Tegan spend more time together and Tegan's influence begins to skew Jacks route towards more scenic routes and touristy road side attractions, they start to get to know each other more. They begin to fall in love but both have secrets and hidden trauma in their past that they need to overcome.
It is a typical romance. The reason this is an issue to me is I was not expecting this, and I am very picky with my romances. This was not a romance I typically like. Too fast paced, not enough stakes, a whole bunch of miscommunication. If I'd known this was a romance and not a romance mystery, I wouldve approached it differently and probably would have rated it higher.
"Arriving in Copper Canyon, Colorado, where wooden storefronts line the quiet streets and no-one knows her name, Tegan breathes easy for the first time in years. And when she grows close with Jack, another lost soul who won’t talk about his home, it seems she’s found the perfect companion to explore the mountain landscapes with."
"But just as Tegan starts to think maybe safety isn’t a place, it’s a person, she notices the box of photos and newspaper clippings that Jack takes everywhere in the trunk of his car. Who is the woman in every frame? And why does she look so familiar…?"
When I read this, my assumption for the novel was small town mystery romance. Small town being Copper Canyon, and "why does she look so familiar" implies that something really interesting is going to happen with "The Girl in the Picture", the literal title of the book.
Neither of those is the case. This is a road trip book, with Copper Canyon being one stop along the way. And they stayed there for literally one night. Not even a significant portion of the book. Second, this book is not a mystery AT ALL. We know who the woman in the picture is, we know who she is the first time we see her. Tegan finds out who she is immediately too. The thought "why does she look so familiar" doesnt cross her mind at all.
If I was to give a summary of this book, the following is what I would include, and what I think other people should know before reading (I dont feel like making it flow well so pardon the style).
After years of being parented by her older brother, Tegan is finally proving her independence but embarking on a road trip across the US, on a mission to find the perfect small town to settle down in and complete her first novel. Not long into her trip, her car breaks down and she's resorted to hitch hiking across the US. Along the way, she hitches a ride with Jack, a stuffy lawyer who has meticulously mapped his way from San Francisco to New York City, optimizing the most straightforward route. As Jack and Tegan spend more time together and Tegan's influence begins to skew Jacks route towards more scenic routes and touristy road side attractions, they start to get to know each other more. They begin to fall in love but both have secrets and hidden trauma in their past that they need to overcome.
It is a typical romance. The reason this is an issue to me is I was not expecting this, and I am very picky with my romances. This was not a romance I typically like. Too fast paced, not enough stakes, a whole bunch of miscommunication. If I'd known this was a romance and not a romance mystery, I wouldve approached it differently and probably would have rated it higher.
January 3, 2024
What a beautiful story…..
Not only was it difficult to put the book down once I began reading it; I never lost interest in picking it back up.
The writing is stellar; the characters are like-able and this work of fiction feels like a true story.
4 & 1/2 stars!
Not only was it difficult to put the book down once I began reading it; I never lost interest in picking it back up.
The writing is stellar; the characters are like-able and this work of fiction feels like a true story.
4 & 1/2 stars!
August 31, 2021
This book just about ticks all the boxes.
A dramatic road trip around America !
A handsome broken rich man with a lost love and a devastating tragic story !
A scruffy hippy girl with no relatives writing a book, travelling America looking for a new home for herself and her sick brother !
And a tense car journey where they find mutual attraction and love which turns to mistrust and a relationship that is doomed to fail.
Or maybe not.
A dramatic road trip around America !
A handsome broken rich man with a lost love and a devastating tragic story !
A scruffy hippy girl with no relatives writing a book, travelling America looking for a new home for herself and her sick brother !
And a tense car journey where they find mutual attraction and love which turns to mistrust and a relationship that is doomed to fail.
Or maybe not.
April 28, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! Finished it in one day! 🫶🏻
December 10, 2022
When Tegan a writer seeking a simple country life and Jack a wealthy NYC lawyer who are both grappling with different tragedies accidentally meet up while on separate road trips a joint romantic adventure ensues.
Yes, it could indeed be the basis of a Hallmark channel movie but I still found it enjoyable easy reading.
Read for Retired Bookworms Club 4.5 stars
Yes, it could indeed be the basis of a Hallmark channel movie but I still found it enjoyable easy reading.
Read for Retired Bookworms Club 4.5 stars
December 11, 2023
I fell deep into this story. There was just something that hooked you from the beginning about the sacrifices made for each other, the loss, and grief. Thrown between the lines were characters who were so stuffy they made you laugh, or free spirited that it made you question if their feet would ever touch the ground. The characters we all are so familiar within our lives that we instantly feel the tinge of pain because we know the pain they cause. I felt like part of the story was a journey, part roller coaster ride and one of self love. To find oneself is to learn how to love oneself enough to search. There’s hope even after the unthinkable moments. You will feel your heart pulled to the point of crying and then silently cheering when the page turns in their lives and you see hope appear and love does too.
July 20, 2021
Strong Road Trip Romance. This is a really solid road trip romance full of misunderstandings, some hijinx, tragic backstories for our main characters, and an element or two of danger - all while traveling the backroads of America as two strangers who happen to get thrown together due to, well, a major misunderstanding. :D You'll laugh some, you'll cry some, you'll imagine yourself getting a bit wet - from rain, get your mind out of the damn gutter -, and yeah, you'll probably fall in love with these two yourself. Very much recommended.
November 18, 2023
I could lean toward 2.5 stars on this one.
I honestly didn’t enjoy it but didn’t hate it enough to DNF.
The story was very predictable and I didn’t feel much connection to either character, even when their personal struggles were revealed. I saw the ending from a mile away and wasn’t even routing for them.
It just didn’t do it for me. The dramatic moments didn’t have the grab your attention affect and it fell flat. I’m not really sure what was missing that could have made this story better, but something was surely missing.
I honestly didn’t enjoy it but didn’t hate it enough to DNF.
The story was very predictable and I didn’t feel much connection to either character, even when their personal struggles were revealed. I saw the ending from a mile away and wasn’t even routing for them.
It just didn’t do it for me. The dramatic moments didn’t have the grab your attention affect and it fell flat. I’m not really sure what was missing that could have made this story better, but something was surely missing.
August 1, 2025
The Girl in the Picture is an emotional, beautifully written story that follows two well-developed characters on a literal and personal journey. Tegan and Jack both felt real and relatable, and I appreciated the depth of their struggles and growth. The writing is vivid and cinematic, with strong imagery that made the settings come alive. I also loved how the road trip served as a metaphor for healing and self-discovery.
That said, the pacing felt uneven at times. I kept feeling like the story was so good—drawing me in—then it would slow down or pull back just enough to lose a bit of momentum. Some parts were predictable, but the emotional themes and character depth helped balance that out.
Overall, it’s a touching read with meaningful themes like grief, forgiveness, and resilience. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys character-driven, emotionally layered fiction.
That said, the pacing felt uneven at times. I kept feeling like the story was so good—drawing me in—then it would slow down or pull back just enough to lose a bit of momentum. Some parts were predictable, but the emotional themes and character depth helped balance that out.
Overall, it’s a touching read with meaningful themes like grief, forgiveness, and resilience. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys character-driven, emotionally layered fiction.
August 13, 2021
What a journey--I couldn't put this down! I felt like I was on the road trip with Tegan and Jack, living all the beautifully unexpected moments of life, and falling in love at the same time. I particularly enjoyed the way they both dealt with grief and grew as individuals. If you love road trips, opposites attracting, character growth, and small town charm, this book is for you!
December 1, 2023
2 lost souls brought together by fate on an interesting road trip that explores loss, hope, and finding out that home isn’t always a place but sometimes people. ❤️
December 31, 2023
This book ALMOST brought me to tears (which is hard to do) it was touching sweet, and ended just right! Super cute!❤️❤️
January 27, 2024
3 1/2 Stars Rounded Up
January 5, 2025
Cute heartwarming book
February 25, 2024
I loved this book!!!! With my whole heart!!!!!
August 4, 2021
This is my 2nd Melissa Weiner novel and it is just as good as Her Family Secret. I was totally engrossed in Tegan and Jack's road trip and couldn't put the book down until I had finished.
Tegan's brother Jamie has looked out for her from a young age, as a terminal illness threatens to take away the person who she has always relied on she embarks on a trip to find them the house and state of their dreams.
Following a tragedy Jack sets off on a road trip from his old life in San Francisco to New York City to work once again in the family law firm. When their paths collide neither Tegan or Jack know what the future holds but both know their Life's won't be the same without their loved ones in it
A story about coming to terms with grief and moving on
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review
Tegan's brother Jamie has looked out for her from a young age, as a terminal illness threatens to take away the person who she has always relied on she embarks on a trip to find them the house and state of their dreams.
Following a tragedy Jack sets off on a road trip from his old life in San Francisco to New York City to work once again in the family law firm. When their paths collide neither Tegan or Jack know what the future holds but both know their Life's won't be the same without their loved ones in it
A story about coming to terms with grief and moving on
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review
April 3, 2025
3 stars
PROS: It started out interesting, and the plot had potential. I liked the character backstories and growth. I also liked that there wasn’t a rushed HEA. The small town secondary characters were sweet.
CONS: The meddling mom was super annoying, and I think the plot lost a lot of momentum at the end with the huge leap in time.
OVERALL: This is the fourth book I’ve read by this author, and it was my least favorite (The Second Chance Year was my favorite). I will read more by this author but this book was just missing something.
In my opinion, this book is appropriate for 18+ (intimacy).
PROS: It started out interesting, and the plot had potential. I liked the character backstories and growth. I also liked that there wasn’t a rushed HEA. The small town secondary characters were sweet.
CONS: The meddling mom was super annoying, and I think the plot lost a lot of momentum at the end with the huge leap in time.
OVERALL: This is the fourth book I’ve read by this author, and it was my least favorite (The Second Chance Year was my favorite). I will read more by this author but this book was just missing something.
In my opinion, this book is appropriate for 18+ (intimacy).
July 27, 2021
As soon as I started reading this novel I just couldn't put it down. It just has so many good, bad, and real scenarios that made me reconsider life itself. I have had my heart broken into pieces and put it back together in every chapter of it.
So, if you are looking forward to reading it, get ready, because I don't think any review can capture what going through these pages feels like.
- Don't stop believing.
So, if you are looking forward to reading it, get ready, because I don't think any review can capture what going through these pages feels like.
- Don't stop believing.
July 26, 2021
Not just another road trip romance, but a really satisfying read about moving forward after dealing with the worst that life has thrown at you. Jack and Tegan are two lost souls with enough grief in their past to last a lifetime. Maybe a trip across America will help them both to learn what they want the future to look like. A great read!
August 23, 2021
This book was so very good! I felt like I had stepped into the story from page one. I was invested in their story and couldn’t wait to find out what happened. It was the perfect romantic book!
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
December 29, 2023
What did I just read? It certainly wasn’t a mystery about a girl in a picture looking familiar. I rolled my eyes so many times while listening to this audiobook I’m surprised my eyes didn’t stay there. This was such a lame love story. What did Jack see in Tegan? She was a brat that made fun of him with every interaction. They knew each other for less than two weeks but somehow he knew the differences in her smiles because he’d seen 100 of them? When? Ugh. If you have this on your want to read list, skip it.
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