Rosa Santori has always been a rebel, refusing to conform to the limitations placed upon her. But when a car accident changes her life forever, she must fight for survival and find a new path forward.
As a psychology intern at Remington Hospital, Laura Falifax is eager to prove herself. But her husband's resentment and sabotage threaten to hold her back.
When Laura meets Rosa, their worlds collide and they both find themselves in a place where struggle becomes motivation. But can they overcome their differences and work together, or will life's obstacles hinder their growth?
For fans of heartwarming stories about unlikely friendships and overcoming adversity, "Rosa and Laura" is a must-read. Grab your copy now before the price changes!
Christina has numerous diplomas in Literature, an AA in Business, and a BS in Information Technology she obtained while single parenting. She lives in upstate New York where she has resided most of her life. In her free time, she likes reading, knitting, fishing, and walking her dog. Her books come from different sources such as her past, dreams, and forecasts. She hopes that her writing insights can be beneficial to readers in both entertainment and understanding the unknown.
She also has published several books on Amazon, both fiction and non-fiction. She has been an Office Manager for many years working in different settings including healthcare, education, and business. She is a proud mother of a BS Accounting graduate and a military service provider.
Steps Forward by Christine Fanelli is a powerful narrative centered on two women coming together despite their differences. Based on real events, the story follows Laura, a psychologist who serves as an advocate for Rosa, an individual living with epilepsy. Rosa has coped with epilepsy since childhood and faces surgery to address her seizures. Her journey has been difficult, yet she possesses inner strength. She tends to be reserved and cautious about trusting others. Over time, Laura begins to get Rosa to open up. Laura is also struggling in her marriage and is challenged to address her husband’s alcoholism. Drawing from each other’s approach to life, each woman learns to address her circumstances and become friends. Rosa’s story was relatable to me as a person living with chronic illness. The story highlights daily challenges faced by those living with epilepsy and relates to people managing chronic illness. It would be valuable to the family and friends of epilepsy patients.
I found this book incredibly inspiring and full of hope. Each page left me feeling uplifted and motivated to see life in a brighter light. If you love stories that touch the heart deeply, this one's unmissable!
I absolutely loved how this story highlights the strength of the characters and their bond. I could really connect with them, and their journey kept me interested from start to finish. The writing style is straightforward, making it a joy to read. It’s an inspiring tale of hope and friendship.
The book truly touched my heart with its beautiful story of unexpected bonds and resilience. I felt deeply connected to the characters as they faced life’s challenges with courage and love. The way their journey unfolded was inspiring, leaving me hopeful and uplifted. It’s a story I’ll never forget.
This book captivated me from start to finish with its insightful and engaging story. The author’s ability to delve into life’s challenges and turn them into a compelling narrative is truly impressive. I was moved by the depth of the characters’ experiences and how their journeys unfolded in such a relatable way. The writing is clear and approachable, making it easy to connect with the story and its themes. If you’re looking for a book that combines emotional depth with meaningful insights, this one is a must-read. It’s a captivating and enriching experience that I highly recommend to anyone seeking an inspiring story.
Ever stumbled upon a book that not only pulls at your heartstrings but also gives you a hefty dose of reality? That’s Christina Fanelli’s "Steps Forward" for you. Written by a multifaceted author whose life reads almost as varied and vibrant as her characters, this book promises a journey through the trials and triumphs of two uniquely captivating women.
The heart of the story beats around Rosa Santori and Laura Falifax, whose lives converge in an unexpected twist of fate. Rosa, grappling with epilepsy after a life-altering accident, meets Laura, a greenhorn psychologist wrestling with her own tumultuous life. What blooms is a friendship that charts the course for healing and discovery.
Christina writes like she’s right there, chatting with you over coffee. Her style is straightforward yet profound, making the medical and psychological layers of the story accessible. You’ll find yourself nodding along to her lucid explanations and chuckling at the witty banter between her well-crafted characters.
Rosa and Laura are the kinds of characters you root for from the very start. They're flawed, fierce, and wonderfully human. The way their stories intertwine, you can't help but hope they each find their peace. And it's not just them; the supporting cast adds colour and context, enhancing the overall narrative beautifully.
Fanelli weaves the dual narratives with a deft hand, balancing emotional depth with plot progression. Just when you think you know where things are heading, she throws in a twist that keeps you hooked. The structure serves the story well, keeping the pages turning without sacrificing depth.
The book tackles some heavy hitters—identity, resilience, and friendship. But it’s the authentic exploration of living with epilepsy that sets it apart. It’s enlightening, giving voice to experiences often shrouded in misunderstanding.
This book will tug at your emotions. It’s a rollercoaster—uplifting one moment, heart-wrenching the next. Fanelli has a knack for capturing the highs and lows of life in a way that’s both poignant and palpable.
Character development is where Fanelli truly shines. You feel like you know Rosa and Laura personally, like they could be your neighbours or friends. The emotional honesty in their stories is a standout feature that not only entertains but resonates deeply.
If there's a minor quibble to be had, it's with the conclusion of the story. The ending comes on a bit quickly, akin to rushing to catch the last train home. Allowing the story a little more space to unfold could have led to a more measured and potentially more fulfilling finale.
Honestly, I loved this book. It’s one of those rare reads that entertains, informs, and inspires all at once. The resilience displayed by Rosa and Laura left a lasting impression on me, reminding me that sometimes, the hardest paths lead to the most beautiful destinations.
If you're on the lookout for a book that combines heart, wisdom, and a touch of everyday magic, "Steps Forward" should be on your list. Whether you’re familiar with epilepsy, interested in psychology, or just in for a good story about human spirit, Christina Fanelli delivers. So, why not give it a read? It might just change the way you see the world around you.
The prologue beautifully sets the stage, immersing readers in the vibrant energy of a college campus where students eagerly return to their hometowns and loved ones. We meet Rosa Santori - our protagonist, packing her belongings into her suitcase, wearing a Pepsi sweatshirt and Jordan jeans with an overcoat that was too huge to fit in her suitcase. With her dark hair in a ponytail aready to leave campus, driving her Delta 88 to visit her boyfriend, Travis.
She savors the drive, full of anticipation for the visit, when her journey takes a tragic turn with an accident.
Meanwhile, we encounter Laura Falifax, who is surprised to receive an internship offer from her professor, Bliss. The internship involves a patient in need of her psychological expertise. The patient, suffering from epilepsy, has been referred to Remington Hospital after their current doctor exhausted all options. The patient is Rosa. The accident caused because of her seizures issue that she has been trying to managing & control alone since childhood after she over hears her parents arguing & calling her 'dramatic' or 'attention seeking' when she reaches out for help.
The narrative unfolds around Laura and Rosa, running parallel. Laura is seen grappling with her alcoholic husband and a troubled marriage, while Rosa battles epilepsy without familial support expect the love and support from her dearest Nona. Laura has an indifferent husband, David, while Rosa has Travis supporting her through every hardship. Initially on shaky terms, their friendship gradually blossoms into a deep bond, providing them both with solace and company.
This story is a touching exploration of friendship, recovery, support, and love. It ultimately highlights the importance of taking bold steps in life, as Rosa bravely did with her experimental surgery for seizures.
This story is based on true events from the life of the author, which makes it even more special.
This book was such a wild ride! I loved Laura and Rosa so much! They were both at such crucial points in their lives, and the way they found inspiration in each other to overcome their struggles was simply amazing. I loved Rosa even more because of her confident and positive mindset. Despite having such a traumatic childhood and difficult experiences, she always looked at the bright side and never backed down from any challenges. She knew what she wanted, and she went for it.
How can I forget Shadow and Travis? Dogs are always our biggest supporters and mood lifters, but they can also be life savers, and Shadow was exactly that for Rosa. I love him the most!
And Travis—oh boy, I owe him an apology. I thought he would turn out to be a toxic character throughout the book. I don’t know why I had that impression, but I was so, so wrong. I’ve never been happier to be proven wrong!
And the fact this book was a true story based on author's personal life experience made it much more related and Impactful! I am so proud of our author @author_tina541 for getting out of this phase and writing a book to help others as well, more power to you girl ❤️🩹
I loved everything about this book. It gave me goosebumps and chills while reading. However, I did feel like the ending was a little rushed. We were waiting for that moment for so long, and when it finally happened, it felt like it just came and went without much depth. I would have loved a more detailed and intense conclusion.
If you like a book with psychological and medical elements based on true life events, then you should definitely go for this one!
Are you in the mood for a fiction book that hooks you from the first page?
Steps Forward by Christina Fanelli, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of two determined women facing unique challenges.
The story centers on Rosa Santori, a fierce rebel whose life is turned upside down by a car accident. Struggling with epilepsy, Rosa refuses to let her condition define her and fights to carve out a new path. Enter Laura Falifax, a psychology intern navigating her own personal and professional struggles, including a tumultuous relationship with her husband.
The highlight of the book that I loved is how it intertwines Rosa and Laura’s journeys, showcasing their resilience and determination. The characters are deeply relatable, and their development throughout the story is both inspiring and heartwarming. The narrative is written in a friendly, lucid language that makes it an easy yet compelling read.
The unique aspect of this book, lies in its exploration of unlikely friendships and overcoming adversity. I also love how the author has collided both the character worlds and eventually merging them is beautifully portrayed, making it a must-read for anyone who loves stories of personal growth and perseverance.
The book also offers a gripping tale of personal transformation and the power of human connection. With vivid imagery and well-crafted dialogue, it’s a book you’ll find hard to put down.
I think what this story proves more than anything is that sometimes we don’t need fiction because the truth is just as absurd. As is obvious from the title of this book, this is a true story. It's not only about facing it, opening up or still entrapped in grey thoughts of the past but also making risky decisions and find a new path for survival . Firstly the initial pages were about Laura an intern who was assigned a work of handing and dealing with a patient being a psychologist she was asked to collect past history or information about Rosa. Rosa has been a patient from quite a long period, She had a car accident and it changed her life completely. Opening up to strangers was the first step towards her healing. The first meeting between the two was not that successful.Rosa was in her shell. Hard to open up.David ,Laura's husband was also having a rough phase after his injury .This is a very captivating story about Rosa and Laura and how they step forward towards accepting the challenges of epilepsy and settling down in the same page. This is a motivational story.
I picked up this book out of curiosity and finished it feeling deeply moved. Steps Forward is not just about living with epilepsy; it’s about what happens when two broken people are forced into each other’s lives and discover unexpected strength.
Rosa Santori is stubborn and fiery, the kind of character who doesn’t want to be pitied but still aches in her quiet moments. I loved how her strength wasn’t always obvious, sometimes it was simply getting up again after being knocked down. Laura Falifax, in contrast, is all nerves and eagerness, yet her personal life is unraveling at the seams. That combination made her fascinating to follow.
Their unlikely friendship made the book shine. It reminded me that healing rarely comes from isolation, it often takes connection with someone you’d least expect. By the last chapter, I didn’t want to say goodbye to them. A poignant, beautifully written story.
I have to share this with you all today! It's my honest review of an inspirational book that I have completed reading.
Truly Inspirational!
This book is a true gem, offering its readers a story that is both inspirational and very touching. The author has wonderfully captured the complexities of life and turned them into a narrative that is both compelling and uplifting. I was deeply moved by the way the story emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the strength found in the most unlikely places. Sounds intriguing! And, the writing is fluid and engaging enough, making it a pleasure to read. Are you looking for a book that will inspire you and leave you feeling uplifted? This book is a must-read for you.
Read the story of Rosa and Laura and immerse yourself into a journey through adversity with an unlikely friendship floating across.
📚 BOOK REVIEW Steps Forward: A Look at Living with Epilepsy and Making Risky Decisions with the Only Help Coming From an Assigned Rookie Psychologist by Christina Fanelli
This book is a beautiful exploration of life’s challenges and the resilience needed to overcome them. The author’s writing is both eloquent and accessible, making it easy to connect with the story and the characters. I was particularly taken by how the narrative balances moments of hardship with uplifting themes of hope and perseverance.
The story flows smoothly, making it a joy to read from start to finish. If you’re looking for a book that offers both entertainment and inspiration, this one is a perfect choice. It’s a heartfelt and enriching read that I highly recommend to everyone!
I got this book because I'm a psychology grad and I really wanted to read something fictional at the same time I wanted to explore my own subject. The book basically talks about two protagonists Rosa and Laura. One a psychologist and one a patient but both going through a lot in their lives. The way the author has tried to portray their friendship is commendable. Both the characters have great in depth emotional connection. Coming to the plot, the pace is perfect. It's not too slow or too fast, it's such an easy read for every individual out there even if you aren't very much into books. Definitely a must read for every psychology student or practising psychologists out there, you will definitely enjoy the book.
A gripping story based on true events follows the journeys of two women facing their own struggles. Rosa, a patient with epilepsy, and Laura, a psychiatry doctoral student in an abusive marriage, meet and learn from each other's strengths. The author's immersive descriptions of epilepsy and its effects are both fascinating and refreshing, showing how Rosa chooses to live her life despite the challenges. Laura finds inspiration in Rosa's resilience and seeks to overcome her own situation. Highly recommended for its strong morals and deep insight into epilepsy, a must-read for anyone affected by this disease.
This book is a profoundly inspiring read that captures the essence of resilience and personal growth. The author’s ability to create a story that is both emotionally rich and thought-provoking is truly commendable.
I was drawn in by the authentic portrayal of the characters’ struggles and triumphs, making their journey feel incredibly real and relatable. The writing is smooth and engaging, making it easy to lose yourself in the narrative. If you’re looking for a book that offers both a gripping story and valuable life lessons, this one is a must-read.
It’s a deeply moving experience that you won’t want to miss!
This book had a profound impact on me with its emotionally uplifting story. The author’s skill in creating characters that resonate with the reader is truly remarkable. I was particularly impressed by how the narrative explores the complexities of life with such grace and compassion.
The writing is clear and inviting, making it easy to connect with the story and feel deeply for the characters. If you’re in search of a book that will leave you feeling inspired and enriched, this one is an excellent choice.
It’s a beautifully written tale that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page – highly recommended!
This book took me on a profound emotional journey that I wasn’t expecting. The author’s ability to delve into the depths of human experience with such honesty and compassion is truly remarkable. I was deeply moved by the way the story explores the struggles and triumphs of its characters, making it a truly impactful read.
The writing is beautiful, with a flow that makes it easy to get lost in the narrative. If you’re looking for a book that will touch your heart and leave a lasting impression, this one is an absolute must-read.
It’s a powerful story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished – don’t miss it!
This book left a deep impression on me with its compelling narrative and heartfelt message. The author’s ability to create a story that is both relatable and inspiring is truly exceptional. I loved how the characters’ journeys are portrayed with such authenticity, making it easy to connect with their experiences.
The writing is straightforward yet powerful, drawing you into the story and keeping you engaged throughout. If you’re searching for a book that will both move and inspire you, this one is an excellent pick.
It’s a captivating and emotional read that you won’t want to miss highly recommended!
This book really left an impression on me with its beautiful blend of warmth and wisdom. The author’s ability to create such vivid, relatable characters and place them in a narrative that explores important life themes is truly impressive.
I loved how the story unfolded with a perfect balance of emotion and reflection, making it both captivating and thought-provoking. The writing is clear and inviting, making it a joy to read.
You should definitely read this book as it offer a deep emotional connection and meaningful takeaways, this book is definitely for you. It’s a story that will stay with you – a highly recommended read!
A gripping story of two women--one a patient with a difficult past and the challenges brought about by epilepsy, and the other a budding psychiatry doctoral student facing a difficult present.
The author interweaves the different strengths of these two characters--patient and medical student--with each appreciating and building on the fortitude of the other to potentially become someone better.
Based on a true story--a must-read for anyone who suffers, or know someone afflicted with, this terrible disease.
This book offers an uplifting and insightful look at life’s challenges and the strength we find in ourselves and others.
The author has a gift for creating characters that feel so real and relatable, making it easy to connect with their experiences. I loved how the story is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, offering valuable lessons while keeping you fully engaged. The writing is smooth and inviting, making it a pleasure to read.
This book will entertain and inspire, this one is a perfect pick. It’s a story that will leave you feeling enriched and empowered highly recommended!
When I read this book, I was deeply moved by the powerful and relatable journey it presents. The author has a unique talent for crafting stories that touch the heart and inspire the mind.
What stood out to me was how the narrative beautifully explores resilience and the strength found in unlikely friendships. The writing is smooth, making it easy to connect with the characters and their struggles.
This book is a must-read for anyone looking for an emotionally rich and engaging story. It’s one that will leave you reflecting long after you’ve turned the last page highly recommended!
This book is one of those rare reads that truly resonates on a deep emotional level. The author has a remarkable way of conveying the characters' struggles and triumphs with such authenticity that you can't help but feel connected to their journey.
I was particularly moved by how the story addresses the challenges of life with such grace and insight. The writing is smooth and engaging, making it easy to get lost in the narrative.
This book will touch your heart and leave you thinking long after you’ve finished. Don’t miss out on this powerful story!
This book left a lasting impression on me. The author’s ability to capture the complexities of life’s challenges with such sensitivity is truly commendable.
I was particularly moved by how the story unfolds, revealing the power of perseverance and the strength found in unexpected connections. The writing is beautifully done, making it easy to get lost in the narrative and feel a deep connection with the characters.
This book offers both an emotional journey and valuable insights, this one is a fantastic choice. It’s a memorable and inspiring read that you won’t want to miss!
This book is an absolute gem, offering a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. The author’s writing is exceptional, bringing to life a narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships and the courage to face life’s challenges.
I loved how the story is both engaging and insightful, with characters that feel incredibly real and relatable. It’s rare to find a book that balances emotion with such grace, making it a truly rewarding read.
This story is both inspire and entertain, this book is a must read. It’s a journey you won’t forget highly recommended!
When I picked up this book, I wasn’t expecting to be so moved. The author has crafted a story that is both powerful and relatable, touching on life’s challenges with a sensitivity that is truly remarkable.
I loved how the characters’ journeys are portrayed with such depth, making their struggles and triumphs feel so real. The writing is clear and compelling, making it easy to get drawn into the narrative.
You will enjoy this book that offers both emotional depth and meaningful insights, this one is an absolute must-read.
I was completely absorbed by this book from the first page. The author’s storytelling is both compelling and inspirational, drawing you into the characters' lives and making you feel every moment of their journey.
I was struck by how the narrative so effectively explores themes of resilience and the importance of human connection. The writing is fluid and accessible, making it a book that is easy to read and hard to put down.
This book is an excellent choice. It’s a powerful and moving read that you won’t want to miss!
Amazing Book! This book broke me open in all the right ways. Rosa’s raw, unfiltered honesty made me weep not just for her but for every person who has had to carry invisible pain. Watching her try to reclaim control of her life after that terrifying car accident made my heart ache.
Laura’s presence was such a quiet force. Their connection was unexpected, complicated, and healing. I wasn’t ready for how this book would change the way I think about medical trauma, love, and bravery. If you’ve ever felt unseen, this one’s for you.
Loved It! “This is what it’s like,” I whispered, gripping the pages. “This is what it’s like to be misunderstood and still stand tall.” Rosa’s seizures weren’t just medical they were memories, buried truths, and ghosts that whispered at her spine. Her voice? Unapologetically strong.
And then there was Travis. The warmth he brought, the steady loyalty especially in that scene with Shadow was unforgettable. This isn’t just a book about illness; it’s a book about what it takes to trust love when your own body betrays you.
The contrast between Rosa’s haunting inner world and Laura’s well-meaning naivety is beautifully rendered. Laura’s journey isn’t just professional it’s deeply personal. Her scenes with David had me shouting at the page. She’s so human, so flawed, and trying so hard.
Rosa, though… Rosa is unforgettable. The honesty, the hurt, the humor even in despair it lingers. This book isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. It made me want to sit in silence with someone I love and just say: “Tell me everything.”
I didn’t expect to fall in love with a dog. But Shadow? That scruffy, loyal, wise-eyed companion was the heartbeat of this novel. His instincts, his presence… I cried when he licked Rosa’s face after her seizure. That scene stays with you.
Fanelli has written a story that doesn’t shy away from the ugly. It dives in into hospitals, trauma, and childhood wounds and still finds moments of grace. It’s messy, uncomfortable, but real. If you’re tired of polished pain, read this.