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Jensy Willet #1
The Touch of Her Voice
...Firebird Awards 2022 (Speak Up Talk Radio)
First Place LGBTQ Fiction
First Place New Adult Fiction
First Place New Fiction (first time published)
...2022 American Fiction Awards Finalist (LGBTQ+ Fiction)
...Literary Titan Gold Book Award (September 2022)
...Readers' Favorite 5 Star Book
My world turned to shades of grey as I squared my shoulders and turned around. The woman with the short, dark hair and the blue scarf was the only source of color in the coffee shop. I seemed to glide across the floor until I found myself standing by her table. She had been stunning from across the room; up close she dazzled.
Suddenly, there was Sophie.....
On the surface, Jensy Willett appears to have it good friends, a storied basketball career, a great job, and most important, the love of her life, Sophie Barnes.
But there is a secret in Jensy Willett's past that she will not share. Not even with her beloved Sophie. That vow of silence will have far-reaching ramifications when a chance encounter results in a disastrous decision. A decision that will tear at the fabric of Jensy and Sophie's relationship and send them spiraling out of control.
Can their relationship be saved?
First Place LGBTQ Fiction
First Place New Adult Fiction
First Place New Fiction (first time published)
...2022 American Fiction Awards Finalist (LGBTQ+ Fiction)
...Literary Titan Gold Book Award (September 2022)
...Readers' Favorite 5 Star Book
My world turned to shades of grey as I squared my shoulders and turned around. The woman with the short, dark hair and the blue scarf was the only source of color in the coffee shop. I seemed to glide across the floor until I found myself standing by her table. She had been stunning from across the room; up close she dazzled.
Suddenly, there was Sophie.....
On the surface, Jensy Willett appears to have it good friends, a storied basketball career, a great job, and most important, the love of her life, Sophie Barnes.
But there is a secret in Jensy Willett's past that she will not share. Not even with her beloved Sophie. That vow of silence will have far-reaching ramifications when a chance encounter results in a disastrous decision. A decision that will tear at the fabric of Jensy and Sophie's relationship and send them spiraling out of control.
Can their relationship be saved?
321 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2022
73 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
About the author
Sara Scott
3 books27 followersI am a midwesterner transplanted to the southwest about eleven years ago.
During my working career I was an English teacher, Special Education teacher, school administrator and coach (basketball, softball, volleyball, track and field).
Retirement has allowed me to the more artistic side of myself. I enjoy photography (and reworking my photos in abstract works of art), drawing (geometric drawings designed with ultra-fine makers), and writing.
In 2019 I took an idea and several separate chapters I had written and decided to write my first novel. The result was "The Touch of Her Voice." It is a lesbian romance/relationship novel that follows the characters of Jensy Willett and Sophie Barnes.
It is to be the first novel in a trilogy. The second and third volumes ("The Sound of Her Smile" and "Taste of her Silence") are as yet to be published.
During my working career I was an English teacher, Special Education teacher, school administrator and coach (basketball, softball, volleyball, track and field).
Retirement has allowed me to the more artistic side of myself. I enjoy photography (and reworking my photos in abstract works of art), drawing (geometric drawings designed with ultra-fine makers), and writing.
In 2019 I took an idea and several separate chapters I had written and decided to write my first novel. The result was "The Touch of Her Voice." It is a lesbian romance/relationship novel that follows the characters of Jensy Willett and Sophie Barnes.
It is to be the first novel in a trilogy. The second and third volumes ("The Sound of Her Smile" and "Taste of her Silence") are as yet to be published.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
January 30, 2024
**'Tell that refreshing and ideal story that first comes to mind while at the same time try to storytell for others/readers -- but do not listen to them too much if they start critiquing..'
Compelling read!
Wow, wow and wow! Just a beautiful, well-paced and solidly written book #1. Love the approachableness of the storytelling and their irresistible chemistry.
Highly recommended book!
Compelling read!
Wow, wow and wow! Just a beautiful, well-paced and solidly written book #1. Love the approachableness of the storytelling and their irresistible chemistry.
Highly recommended book!
January 16, 2023
Journeying as a couple.
This book reminded me of Georgia Beers' Olive Oil and White Bread. There are similaries and differences in the stories but in gist, this story, like Beers', is about two women's journey as a couple rather than their journey towards being a couple.
Jensy and Sophie get together fast and the storyline about their ups and downs as a couple was interesting to me. I like that most parts of their relationship were sweet and passionate and I thought Sophie was a pretty great character. Jensy is less great in some ways but I think that might well be because this is a single POV book and we see her flaws internally through her own POV.
While most parts of the book were angst-free, it isn't complely so. There were angsty parts that brought out a lot of emotions and because I was so invested in the characters, these parts became hard to read. Part of the angst is related to a secret in Jensy's past that she doesn't share with Sophie for most of their relationship and there is actually a lot I don't understand about this secret and find the intensity of Jensy's emotions a bit bizarre.
That being said, I'm still going to go with a high rating primarily because I like the writing style and found the story to be engaging. But I think an additional long epilogue or a short post- HEA story would make the story more complete.
This book reminded me of Georgia Beers' Olive Oil and White Bread. There are similaries and differences in the stories but in gist, this story, like Beers', is about two women's journey as a couple rather than their journey towards being a couple.
Jensy and Sophie get together fast and the storyline about their ups and downs as a couple was interesting to me. I like that most parts of their relationship were sweet and passionate and I thought Sophie was a pretty great character. Jensy is less great in some ways but I think that might well be because this is a single POV book and we see her flaws internally through her own POV.
While most parts of the book were angst-free, it isn't complely so. There were angsty parts that brought out a lot of emotions and because I was so invested in the characters, these parts became hard to read. Part of the angst is related to a secret in Jensy's past that she doesn't share with Sophie for most of their relationship and there is actually a lot I don't understand about this secret and find the intensity of Jensy's emotions a bit bizarre.
That being said, I'm still going to go with a high rating primarily because I like the writing style and found the story to be engaging. But I think an additional long epilogue or a short post- HEA story would make the story more complete.
January 7, 2025
Should’ve read the reviews before I started this! My god this was heartbreaking! I’m not sure I want to move to the next book in the series! A bit too much for me!
I realize my review is not really aligned with my rating! But no, this is a very very solid 5! It’s just that I can’t deal with such heartbreaking stories ..
I realize my review is not really aligned with my rating! But no, this is a very very solid 5! It’s just that I can’t deal with such heartbreaking stories ..
February 4, 2025
Update for audiobook version:
So happy Sara Scott hired the wonderful Quinn Riley to narrate this audiobook so even more folks can fall in love with this beautiful story.
This BOOK! This BOOK! Oh, the FEELS!
There's so much in this story. We dream of meeting the perfect person for us. The ideal. The one that you KNOW in your heart is the person you are meant to share your life with. More than just intense physical attraction, with everything they do and everything they are, it is abundantly clear that they are your person. They're it.
But you have something in your past you haven't quite let go of. You've convinced yourself that you have. You have happiness you could only dream about. Your life has fallen perfectly into place. You have your dream job and the woman you love is everything to you. And yet there's a kernel of something held deep inside you that you don't completely trust will stay hidden away, so you bury it. Until it blindsides you.
I spent a good portion of this story figuratively holding my breath, waiting for the other shoe to drop. I felt dread because I absolutely did not want anything to happen to this almost ideal couple. But nothing stays buried forever and life can take a significant turn when a fateful decision is made.
Sara Scott told this story with care and unflinching, unpretty honesty. While it was painful and frustrating at times, it also felt very real. As we get older we realize that not everything is black and white. There are things we carry within us that have a profound impact on our lives. This book makes you question what you might do given a similar situation. And that's for both main characters Jensy and Sophie. While most of us would hope that we would trust ourselves to make the right choices, unless you've been there, you just don't know. I want to say more about that, but can't really do it without spoilers.
I understand this is the first of a trilogy and for that I am very grateful. I need more. But please don't torture us, Sara. :-)
Excellent novel - especially for a debut.
So happy Sara Scott hired the wonderful Quinn Riley to narrate this audiobook so even more folks can fall in love with this beautiful story.
This BOOK! This BOOK! Oh, the FEELS!
There's so much in this story. We dream of meeting the perfect person for us. The ideal. The one that you KNOW in your heart is the person you are meant to share your life with. More than just intense physical attraction, with everything they do and everything they are, it is abundantly clear that they are your person. They're it.
But you have something in your past you haven't quite let go of. You've convinced yourself that you have. You have happiness you could only dream about. Your life has fallen perfectly into place. You have your dream job and the woman you love is everything to you. And yet there's a kernel of something held deep inside you that you don't completely trust will stay hidden away, so you bury it. Until it blindsides you.
I spent a good portion of this story figuratively holding my breath, waiting for the other shoe to drop. I felt dread because I absolutely did not want anything to happen to this almost ideal couple. But nothing stays buried forever and life can take a significant turn when a fateful decision is made.
Sara Scott told this story with care and unflinching, unpretty honesty. While it was painful and frustrating at times, it also felt very real. As we get older we realize that not everything is black and white. There are things we carry within us that have a profound impact on our lives. This book makes you question what you might do given a similar situation. And that's for both main characters Jensy and Sophie. While most of us would hope that we would trust ourselves to make the right choices, unless you've been there, you just don't know. I want to say more about that, but can't really do it without spoilers.
I understand this is the first of a trilogy and for that I am very grateful. I need more. But please don't torture us, Sara. :-)
Excellent novel - especially for a debut.
October 20, 2022
This book. This couple. Their story.
Their heartbreak... and mine.
A love story that hurt so good.
So heartbreaking and exquisitely good.
Their heartbreak... and mine.
A love story that hurt so good.
So heartbreaking and exquisitely good.
February 12, 2024
When I first started this book, my initial reaction was, this story is going to be a heart crusher. I didn’t know how I knew. I just knew.
Jensy Willett is a grad student in education and school counseling when she meets Sophie Barnes who is studying law and interning at a prestigious firm. The first part of the book reads like a memoir written by Jensy, describing her past, her new relationship with Sophie, and their growth as an idyllic couple over the course of 13 years. But later, things begin to unravel between them as secrets burn to the surface. There are times when I swooned at their love story but then other moments when I could barely keep reading because the scenes felt like a gut punch. But I was most definitely hooked into Jensy and Sophie’s story and would recommend if you like messy, angsty romances with good characters.
4.5 stars and I’m immediately moving to Book 2.
Jensy Willett is a grad student in education and school counseling when she meets Sophie Barnes who is studying law and interning at a prestigious firm. The first part of the book reads like a memoir written by Jensy, describing her past, her new relationship with Sophie, and their growth as an idyllic couple over the course of 13 years. But later, things begin to unravel between them as secrets burn to the surface. There are times when I swooned at their love story but then other moments when I could barely keep reading because the scenes felt like a gut punch. But I was most definitely hooked into Jensy and Sophie’s story and would recommend if you like messy, angsty romances with good characters.
4.5 stars and I’m immediately moving to Book 2.
July 15, 2022
A secret. A perfect love. A choice tinged with regret. Moving forward has never been so easy and so difficult.
After a couple of disastrous relationships, former basketball player and school guidance counsellor, Jensy Willet seems to have it all: a promising career and her soulmate and love at first sight, Sophie Barnes, a lawyer taking the first steps in her career, and anxious to move forward with her work and love life. Jensy and Sophie’s insta-attraction will erase Jensy’s mysterious memories, insecurities, and fears. But what happens when the past resurfaces? Can Jensy keep that secret forever? Can true love overcome any obstacle? How far are you willing to go to risk it all?
An exceptional debut by Sara Scott, The Touch of Her Voice is a heartfelt love story that spans over thirteen years. It will give you a lot of happiness and joy, but it will also make you so mad, and the best of it all, it’s that you won’t be able to stay mad. You will suffer. You will shed tears. Tears when you’ll understand that a voice within can be silenced for just so long, until he comes back stronger than ever and cannot be muted.
The theme of “the voice”, “her voice”, “a woman’s voice” is depicted throughout all the novel, and you will have to pay attention to each of its nuances, until the true meaning of the book is revealed. The comfort of it all will be so satisfying and yet bittersweet, leaving you craving for more, for the story to move forward in the next chapter.
I loved The Touch of Her Voice. I loved Sophie so much. Her insecurities due to her family situation, a never understanding father. Her need to be loved and accepted and cherished as a person. Her willingness to push herself to the limits for a reward that feels so far away. Her growing into a more mature woman, understanding that no one can take away how worthy you are. If you know you are worth of anything, that you can reach your goals in life being proud of yourself, then you become free. You find peace. A peace that will come after so much hurt. You’ll have to be enough. You are enough.
And then, there’s Jensy.
Jensy and her secret. Jensy and her Jensyventures, her protectiveness, her caring, romantic, and attentive love for Sophie, the love of her life. Everyday is a willingness to move forward, to build a fairy tale castle for her princess. Simple gestures that will remind you of your life, of the small things you share with your partner. Details that are not wasted on the reader, because they build that sentiment of empathy, through which you can recognized yourself. Removing the glasses after your lover has fallen asleep and covering them with a blanket. Staring at them while they are sleeping. Being amazed at how they chose to share their life with you, year after year.
The building of a castle is never easy, and it takes a long time and a lot of trust.
They say communication and trust are the base of every relationship. A secret can make that castle crumble to the ground, leaving you to pick up what’s left.
You start remembering this: “Nothing is created, nothing is lost, everything changes”.
There’s a bridge between the non-apparent creation and the changes of it all.
Jensy and Sophie shared that bridge and will have to cross it again to find each other one more time.
So much potential for Sara Scott, I cherished all the little details in depicting a story that spaces over such a long time, and her ability in tricking me not to stay angry but opening my eyes to understanding.
What would I do in that situation? I can’t judge, I won’t judge, I’m a simple reader, I can only accept and love The Touch of Her Voice for what it gave: a rollercoaster of emotions that made me feel alive. It lured me with its unusual and yet distinctive voice.
After a couple of disastrous relationships, former basketball player and school guidance counsellor, Jensy Willet seems to have it all: a promising career and her soulmate and love at first sight, Sophie Barnes, a lawyer taking the first steps in her career, and anxious to move forward with her work and love life. Jensy and Sophie’s insta-attraction will erase Jensy’s mysterious memories, insecurities, and fears. But what happens when the past resurfaces? Can Jensy keep that secret forever? Can true love overcome any obstacle? How far are you willing to go to risk it all?
An exceptional debut by Sara Scott, The Touch of Her Voice is a heartfelt love story that spans over thirteen years. It will give you a lot of happiness and joy, but it will also make you so mad, and the best of it all, it’s that you won’t be able to stay mad. You will suffer. You will shed tears. Tears when you’ll understand that a voice within can be silenced for just so long, until he comes back stronger than ever and cannot be muted.
The theme of “the voice”, “her voice”, “a woman’s voice” is depicted throughout all the novel, and you will have to pay attention to each of its nuances, until the true meaning of the book is revealed. The comfort of it all will be so satisfying and yet bittersweet, leaving you craving for more, for the story to move forward in the next chapter.
I loved The Touch of Her Voice. I loved Sophie so much. Her insecurities due to her family situation, a never understanding father. Her need to be loved and accepted and cherished as a person. Her willingness to push herself to the limits for a reward that feels so far away. Her growing into a more mature woman, understanding that no one can take away how worthy you are. If you know you are worth of anything, that you can reach your goals in life being proud of yourself, then you become free. You find peace. A peace that will come after so much hurt. You’ll have to be enough. You are enough.
And then, there’s Jensy.
Jensy and her secret. Jensy and her Jensyventures, her protectiveness, her caring, romantic, and attentive love for Sophie, the love of her life. Everyday is a willingness to move forward, to build a fairy tale castle for her princess. Simple gestures that will remind you of your life, of the small things you share with your partner. Details that are not wasted on the reader, because they build that sentiment of empathy, through which you can recognized yourself. Removing the glasses after your lover has fallen asleep and covering them with a blanket. Staring at them while they are sleeping. Being amazed at how they chose to share their life with you, year after year.
The building of a castle is never easy, and it takes a long time and a lot of trust.
They say communication and trust are the base of every relationship. A secret can make that castle crumble to the ground, leaving you to pick up what’s left.
You start remembering this: “Nothing is created, nothing is lost, everything changes”.
There’s a bridge between the non-apparent creation and the changes of it all.
Jensy and Sophie shared that bridge and will have to cross it again to find each other one more time.
So much potential for Sara Scott, I cherished all the little details in depicting a story that spaces over such a long time, and her ability in tricking me not to stay angry but opening my eyes to understanding.
What would I do in that situation? I can’t judge, I won’t judge, I’m a simple reader, I can only accept and love The Touch of Her Voice for what it gave: a rollercoaster of emotions that made me feel alive. It lured me with its unusual and yet distinctive voice.
April 20, 2024
Wow! What a read! I have to admit that the first half of the book didn't really grab my attention. It was just a story about a girl meeting another girl, pursuing her, and then living together. It felt pretty mundane to me, and I was tempted to give up. But I held on because I knew something big and angsty was going to happen soon. And boy, did it happen!
Once shit hits the fan and the drama started flowing, I couldn't put the book down. I read well into the night, even though it was a work week for me. I felt emotionally invested in the story and was moved to tears. Jensy? Why? And Sophie, really? Tit for a tat? There was no greater good or evil between the two scenarios, both were equally bad. Whatever the reason was or wherever their head were when it happened, they both will need to find their way back to each other. Now, I can't wait to move on to Book 2 and find out what happens next to Jensy and Sophie.
Once shit hits the fan and the drama started flowing, I couldn't put the book down. I read well into the night, even though it was a work week for me. I felt emotionally invested in the story and was moved to tears. Jensy? Why? And Sophie, really? Tit for a tat? There was no greater good or evil between the two scenarios, both were equally bad. Whatever the reason was or wherever their head were when it happened, they both will need to find their way back to each other. Now, I can't wait to move on to Book 2 and find out what happens next to Jensy and Sophie.
April 24, 2024
This was an exemplary long haul romance. Jensy is our narrator and lead character who meets and falls in love with Sophie. This is the story of their first 13 years together. So well written with very real characters throughout, and of course a lovely dog.
Five stars, hard to imagine where the next two books in the trilogy will go. A fair few tissues here and a close friend's drawn out death by cancer, just a warning. Thanks Diane for your review that alerted me to this gem.
Five stars, hard to imagine where the next two books in the trilogy will go. A fair few tissues here and a close friend's drawn out death by cancer, just a warning. Thanks Diane for your review that alerted me to this gem.
January 8, 2023
4.5 🌟
This book is filled with emotions and angst. It’s very much like real life. It reminds us that we are human and make mistakes. And that we can be forgiven for them.
This book will stick with be for months to come. I really liked the genuine emotions. And happy that being a little bit longer book it gave us a chance to know the characters better.
Even though it is written in first person from Jensey’s point of view. There is plenty of the story where Sophie’s thoughts are expressed.
Lots of great side characters in this story as well, Jensey’s dad was a wonderful person as well as her co-worker and neighbor Dee.
This book is filled with emotions and angst. It’s very much like real life. It reminds us that we are human and make mistakes. And that we can be forgiven for them.
This book will stick with be for months to come. I really liked the genuine emotions. And happy that being a little bit longer book it gave us a chance to know the characters better.
Even though it is written in first person from Jensey’s point of view. There is plenty of the story where Sophie’s thoughts are expressed.
Lots of great side characters in this story as well, Jensey’s dad was a wonderful person as well as her co-worker and neighbor Dee.
January 8, 2023
I usually have a weak stomach for stories dealing with infidelity but this book is just so beautiful and emotional.
Definitely recommend
Definitely recommend
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2023
I've been really looking forward to reading a good 5-star book for a long time.
I found here two of them: "The touch of her voice" and its sequel "The sound of her smile"
I also found two things that kept me turning the pages nonstop in these romantic books: A talented author and an authentic story.
Many things happen in the books. You may feel different things about them, but you might agree that its content is a good reflection of real life.
I am eagerly waiting for Sara Scotts' next book
Loved them !
Solid 5 🌟
I found here two of them: "The touch of her voice" and its sequel "The sound of her smile"
I also found two things that kept me turning the pages nonstop in these romantic books: A talented author and an authentic story.
Many things happen in the books. You may feel different things about them, but you might agree that its content is a good reflection of real life.
I am eagerly waiting for Sara Scotts' next book
Loved them !
Solid 5 🌟
March 12, 2023
I liked it!
I liked the journey the book to me on and the forehead slapping moment was really there. The book takes place over 13 years and while I would have liked a little more family update I was a bit disappointed in how it ended...it kind of just ended. An epilouge would have been nice but still a good read!
I liked the journey the book to me on and the forehead slapping moment was really there. The book takes place over 13 years and while I would have liked a little more family update I was a bit disappointed in how it ended...it kind of just ended. An epilouge would have been nice but still a good read!
October 12, 2022
This book is worth reading
This is Sara Scott’s debut novel. She contacted me to read and review it and I’m glad she did because Im sure it would of slipped passed me otherwise.
This story is a first person account from Jensy, the story starts when Jensy is just finishing her collage basketball career and is not far off graduating as a coach’s and English teacher. We get her back story and then the moment she meets Sophie (the othe MC). We get to watch them fall in love, move in together and then follow them for a 13yr span. There’s so many highs in their lives and they are so happy and perfect for a long while, that you know the low is coming, and my god it hits hard. You know through the story that something is coming and kind of what it’s going to be. It doesn’t take away the shock effect tho….. oh I had to put it down and take a few deep breaths, dry my eyes, shout at the MC that caused it, then carry on. I’m not going to give spoilers but I was so mad and frustrated and I admit thinking that ‘this isn’t real, this wouldn’t happen’ but then I stopped to think! It does happen all the time and the author did a really good job of dealing with the situation and the aftermath. It’s an emotional ride but it has a very hopeful happy ending. Book two is in editing so we don’t have to leave these ladies here. We get to carry on their journey. Definitely worth a read
This is Sara Scott’s debut novel. She contacted me to read and review it and I’m glad she did because Im sure it would of slipped passed me otherwise.
This story is a first person account from Jensy, the story starts when Jensy is just finishing her collage basketball career and is not far off graduating as a coach’s and English teacher. We get her back story and then the moment she meets Sophie (the othe MC). We get to watch them fall in love, move in together and then follow them for a 13yr span. There’s so many highs in their lives and they are so happy and perfect for a long while, that you know the low is coming, and my god it hits hard. You know through the story that something is coming and kind of what it’s going to be. It doesn’t take away the shock effect tho….. oh I had to put it down and take a few deep breaths, dry my eyes, shout at the MC that caused it, then carry on. I’m not going to give spoilers but I was so mad and frustrated and I admit thinking that ‘this isn’t real, this wouldn’t happen’ but then I stopped to think! It does happen all the time and the author did a really good job of dealing with the situation and the aftermath. It’s an emotional ride but it has a very hopeful happy ending. Book two is in editing so we don’t have to leave these ladies here. We get to carry on their journey. Definitely worth a read
February 12, 2024
Gosh this was heavy. So well-written, so tender, and when it came to certain parts - so difficult to process. The writing is so engaging, I got so invested in the characters and my heart fell in love with them, broke for them, then felt hopeful for them. At certain points I actually had to put my kindle down, and step away just to process what was going on in the story. Lol I feel like I need a vacation before I pick up the second book, but I also can't wait to read about the MCs next chapter.
February 23, 2023
I loved it! Every happy point overshadowed by the spectre of the past that you just knew was going to upset things. Then!!! I thought I had it wrong it would be the present, but no! It was the past and the present just made it worse! Or rather better, made this a better book because the suspense of the past, always expected, merged horribly with the present to create a lovely, involving story.
July 12, 2023
Amazing book full of emotion and hard topics. I very much enjoyed the progression of the relationship and realistic representation of love.
Read
May 15, 2025Okay I started reading it and 2 things bothered me 1) it was really borderline cheesy 2) I couldn't find anything likeable about Jensy (she overthinks too much).
And I was also surprised by how quickly their relationship evolved - from love at first sight to moving in together a few months later. When I didn't know if I should keep reading, I came to read some reviews - and it became clear the 'happy' beginning was going to go downhill from there and honestly I just didn't really feel like going through that. It's obvious there's some infidelity happening at some point, and - just, I read to escape reality. So I want the fairytale thing, not the realistic thing where people are in love and make stupid mistakes and get a divorce.
And I was also surprised by how quickly their relationship evolved - from love at first sight to moving in together a few months later. When I didn't know if I should keep reading, I came to read some reviews - and it became clear the 'happy' beginning was going to go downhill from there and honestly I just didn't really feel like going through that. It's obvious there's some infidelity happening at some point, and - just, I read to escape reality. So I want the fairytale thing, not the realistic thing where people are in love and make stupid mistakes and get a divorce.
April 13, 2024
I think Book 1 had the stronger storyline despite an over-emphasis on the love at first sight/perfect for each other theme (sorry, I'm a cynic). The right vs wrong in the plot wasn't clear cut and blame couldn't be assigned to any one person which I found realistic.
I may have missed something but was the sub-plot re the first photography agent dropped abruptly? In any case, Book 2's ending felt rushed.
Overall, good storytelling. I hope there'll be more Jensy/Sophie stories.
I may have missed something but was the sub-plot re the first photography agent dropped abruptly? In any case, Book 2's ending felt rushed.
Overall, good storytelling. I hope there'll be more Jensy/Sophie stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2022
As far as debut novels go, The Touch of Her Voice is an outstanding example of why i enjoy taking a chance on new authors. A fantastic story; refreshing, well crafted and emotional, this was a story just waiting to be told.
I found the style of storytelling compellingly different - it was this aspect which quickly drew me in. The story is told from a first person point of view of the main character, Jensy Willett as she meets her soulmate, Sophie Barnes for the very first time. The initial chapters cover over a decade of Jensy and Sophie's life together, a concept which might sound rushed, but on the page it totally works and really serves to enhance and imbed the premise of their relationship. Whilst Scott keeps the first few chapters succinct, she simultaneously ensures that they provide the source of the characters' depth, background and initial growth.
The plot follows Jensy a basketball coach, counsellor and teacher and Sophie, a lawyer, as they meet, fall in love and surpass other key milestones in their lifes, both as individuals and as a couple.
But in all of the years they've spent together and out of fear of history repeating itself, there's something Jensy has never told Sophie. And when that secret makes its presence known, it sets off a chain reaction with devastating consequences.
In the telling of Jensy and Sophie's story, Scott dives deeply into the topic of infidelity, exposing and exploring its intricate and complex nature and the far reaching emotional toil exacted upon all of those involved.
Whilst many readers of Sapphic fiction do not like the presence of infidelity in stories, the examination of this topic is the core of Jensy and Sophie's journey. Scott does an excellent job of really digging into the thoughts, feelings and emotions of both Jensy and Sophie as they traverse the most difficult part of their lives thus far.
As they try again, and again, to find a path through the wreckage of their relationship, the terminal illness of a one time lover, and the attention of a predatory work colleague applies even more pressure to the remnants of their once infallible love. Are those scattered parts, strong enough to find their way back to each other?
In addition to infidelity, when learning about Sophie's family, the cost of homophobia from ones own family becomes apparent. Highlighting that whilst it's possible, given the right amount of space and time to make inroads with some people, for others it will be a battle that can never be won.
The Touch of Her Voice, is a beautiful, evocative, piece of literature which compels you to not only feel, deeply and honestly the characters emotions, but also to try and truly understand their actions, thoughts and feelings, regardless of your opinion. There are parts of this book that will make your heart soar and ache with equal measure, from the intense rush of finding your soulmate, to the guilt and regret in being their source of heartbreak and anguish.
As i mentioned at the start, it's baffling that this is a debut novel - with this as a starting point, the future potential of Sarah Scott will be without bounds and she will certainly be an author i keep an eye on. The backcover of The Touch of Her Voice reveals that this is the first in a trilogy - i know what i'll be looking out for next; i'm super excited to continue Jensy and Sophie's story.
I received a copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
I found the style of storytelling compellingly different - it was this aspect which quickly drew me in. The story is told from a first person point of view of the main character, Jensy Willett as she meets her soulmate, Sophie Barnes for the very first time. The initial chapters cover over a decade of Jensy and Sophie's life together, a concept which might sound rushed, but on the page it totally works and really serves to enhance and imbed the premise of their relationship. Whilst Scott keeps the first few chapters succinct, she simultaneously ensures that they provide the source of the characters' depth, background and initial growth.
The plot follows Jensy a basketball coach, counsellor and teacher and Sophie, a lawyer, as they meet, fall in love and surpass other key milestones in their lifes, both as individuals and as a couple.
But in all of the years they've spent together and out of fear of history repeating itself, there's something Jensy has never told Sophie. And when that secret makes its presence known, it sets off a chain reaction with devastating consequences.
In the telling of Jensy and Sophie's story, Scott dives deeply into the topic of infidelity, exposing and exploring its intricate and complex nature and the far reaching emotional toil exacted upon all of those involved.
Whilst many readers of Sapphic fiction do not like the presence of infidelity in stories, the examination of this topic is the core of Jensy and Sophie's journey. Scott does an excellent job of really digging into the thoughts, feelings and emotions of both Jensy and Sophie as they traverse the most difficult part of their lives thus far.
As they try again, and again, to find a path through the wreckage of their relationship, the terminal illness of a one time lover, and the attention of a predatory work colleague applies even more pressure to the remnants of their once infallible love. Are those scattered parts, strong enough to find their way back to each other?
In addition to infidelity, when learning about Sophie's family, the cost of homophobia from ones own family becomes apparent. Highlighting that whilst it's possible, given the right amount of space and time to make inroads with some people, for others it will be a battle that can never be won.
The Touch of Her Voice, is a beautiful, evocative, piece of literature which compels you to not only feel, deeply and honestly the characters emotions, but also to try and truly understand their actions, thoughts and feelings, regardless of your opinion. There are parts of this book that will make your heart soar and ache with equal measure, from the intense rush of finding your soulmate, to the guilt and regret in being their source of heartbreak and anguish.
As i mentioned at the start, it's baffling that this is a debut novel - with this as a starting point, the future potential of Sarah Scott will be without bounds and she will certainly be an author i keep an eye on. The backcover of The Touch of Her Voice reveals that this is the first in a trilogy - i know what i'll be looking out for next; i'm super excited to continue Jensy and Sophie's story.
I received a copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2022
I had a hard time rating this book, and after some thought, I'm giving it 3.5 stars.
Keeping it short and to the point, there were snippets of brilliance in this story as well as emotional, beautiful moments. However, at times I felt I was being told the story as opposed to living the story through the characters. A lot of info dumping that dragged the story down. I will give two thumbs up to the author for touching, or more like immersing us on a topic considered taboo within the lesfic community. Excellent work for a debut.
Keeping it short and to the point, there were snippets of brilliance in this story as well as emotional, beautiful moments. However, at times I felt I was being told the story as opposed to living the story through the characters. A lot of info dumping that dragged the story down. I will give two thumbs up to the author for touching, or more like immersing us on a topic considered taboo within the lesfic community. Excellent work for a debut.
July 18, 2022
Very well written, even made me cry a couple of times.
July 21, 2022
Wow. What a debut novel. I can’t wait to read the next book!
July 19, 2023
Very emotional journey!
Jensy and Sophie’s relationship started with a look across a room, and from there life just happened. However, Jensy has a secret and she fears what will happen now that Sophie has found out. Testing their relationship wasn’t part of the plan, but with no choice, Jensy has to hope that their connection is strong enough to overcome the bumps in the road.
What I loved most about this story was the simplicity of the complicated situation. Sara captured the story in such a way that it followed Jensy and Sophie through life happening. Things spiral and before you know it their popping back up and threatening all you know, whether that was intentional or not. Jensy had her reasons and I could complete understand why she hadn’t wanted to Sophie to know. Their reactions were completely expected and had that initial drama that they definitely should have but then as is true to real life situations, chances to talk and work out what happened next occurred and they just dealt with them.
There was no big Hollywood drama or fakeness, just genuine people that had made choices with consequences. Both guilty of not sharing their feelings, or being fearful of judgement and overreaction, all things we all do, all of the time. Everything just happened so naturally that the beauty of observing Jensy and Sophie’s relationship start, then bloom and thrive, then wilt a little, then build back up, was truly wonderful and so beautiful both in sentiment and the way Sara portrayed them in the story.
A very emotional but completely wonderful journey, with two lovely women who were just loving, living, and surviving. It brought a tear to my eye on many occasions, but left me smiling at many others.
Jensy and Sophie’s relationship started with a look across a room, and from there life just happened. However, Jensy has a secret and she fears what will happen now that Sophie has found out. Testing their relationship wasn’t part of the plan, but with no choice, Jensy has to hope that their connection is strong enough to overcome the bumps in the road.
What I loved most about this story was the simplicity of the complicated situation. Sara captured the story in such a way that it followed Jensy and Sophie through life happening. Things spiral and before you know it their popping back up and threatening all you know, whether that was intentional or not. Jensy had her reasons and I could complete understand why she hadn’t wanted to Sophie to know. Their reactions were completely expected and had that initial drama that they definitely should have but then as is true to real life situations, chances to talk and work out what happened next occurred and they just dealt with them.
There was no big Hollywood drama or fakeness, just genuine people that had made choices with consequences. Both guilty of not sharing their feelings, or being fearful of judgement and overreaction, all things we all do, all of the time. Everything just happened so naturally that the beauty of observing Jensy and Sophie’s relationship start, then bloom and thrive, then wilt a little, then build back up, was truly wonderful and so beautiful both in sentiment and the way Sara portrayed them in the story.
A very emotional but completely wonderful journey, with two lovely women who were just loving, living, and surviving. It brought a tear to my eye on many occasions, but left me smiling at many others.
March 16, 2024
This is an excellent debut!
All the feels 🥺 I really hope there’s a sequel.
Book 3 has just been released and after a few pages in I realised that there's quite a lot that I don't remember so I decided to read Book 1 & 2 again in order to enjoy the series the way it deserves.
All the feels 🥺 I really hope there’s a sequel.
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Re-read book 1 on 28 Mar 2023
I saw that the sequel has just been released. I couldn't really remember much about the story but saw that I gave it 5 Stars so I need to refresh my memory before I start book 2.
Oh, 2nd read and the book still gave me SO MUCH feelings. And now I remember why I wrote that I hope there's a sequel.. I'm excited to continue the journey.
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Re-read from Book 1 again on 16 Mar 2024
Book 3 has just been released and after a few pages in I realised that there's quite a lot that I don't remember so I decided to read Book 1 & 2 again in order to enjoy the series the way it deserves.
January 1, 2024
i am sobbing violently what the fuck.
also i hate HATE the cheating but why did it have me crying the way it does
also i hate HATE the cheating but why did it have me crying the way it does
February 19, 2023
Wow! Just wow! That is all!!! (There aren't enough stars to adequately express.)
November 20, 2025
I literally ended up binge-reading this. It may be the best book I’ve read this year. I became so emotionally moved by the story that I don’t think I can deal with reading anything else right now, so I’m going to read it again and savor the moments that touched me and brought me to tears. I don’t want to ruin it for others, so I won’t say anything more about the emotional elements. I do want to share that there were so many endearing moments in the relationship of Jensy and Sophia. For example, they each had special love songs for the other’s ringtones and loved to play them at unsuspecting times by calling just to be playful and loving. Jensy would sneak up behind Sophia and call. When Sophia heard the ringtone she’d turn her head and then fall back into Jensy’s arms.
Yes, it was true, true love, but would a betrayal leave them unable to forgive and trust again. Buckle up!
Update: 2025–audiobook—This was an incredible listen and, again, I couldn’t go to bed knowing something bad was looming. Quinn Riley was excellent. I highly recommend this!
Yes, it was true, true love, but would a betrayal leave them unable to forgive and trust again. Buckle up!
Update: 2025–audiobook—This was an incredible listen and, again, I couldn’t go to bed knowing something bad was looming. Quinn Riley was excellent. I highly recommend this!
July 17, 2022
I loved reading books involving infidelity when done right.
This book is certainly one of them.definetly looking forward to the author's future works. I can't wait to see what the author had in her arsenal.
This book is certainly one of them.definetly looking forward to the author's future works. I can't wait to see what the author had in her arsenal.
April 2, 2024
A lot of books I read follow more or less a pattern: meet, fall in love, fight, make up. I love it when writers take me somewhere else. This book did, and it makes it special. Even the name of its main character is special. It’s written only from Jensy’s point of view. The book starts when she is in her mid-twenties, where she meets Sophie Barnes, the love of her life. Scott takes the reader with Jensy and Sophie on a journey through several years of joy, pain, and love. As a reader, I felt intimate and invested in them. The writing is delicate and emotional. I don’t want to spoil too much, but Scott manages to write about a couple with a kind of inevitable, strong love, but that love is not untouchable.
A lot of people out there won’t be able to read this because infidelity is a delicate subject.
But Scott managed to write about the hardest betrayal a couple can go through without making readers doubt the strength of their love. A real feat for me that shows undeniable writing talent and intelligence. It’s not dirty; it felt really raw and realistic.
If you are brave enough, definitely embark on their rollercoaster journey.
A lot of people out there won’t be able to read this because infidelity is a delicate subject.
But Scott managed to write about the hardest betrayal a couple can go through without making readers doubt the strength of their love. A real feat for me that shows undeniable writing talent and intelligence. It’s not dirty; it felt really raw and realistic.
If you are brave enough, definitely embark on their rollercoaster journey.
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