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The Life Imperfect #1
Finding Annie
IAN Book of the Year Awards Women's Fiction Finalist Heartbeaking and redemptive, Annie's story reveals the strength of her spirit, the healing power of unconditional love, and the potential of unexpected relationships to teach us to accept ourselves. When Annie returns to the town where she grew up after twelve years, she plans to house-sit for her mother and take a much-needed break from her stressful job and worsening anxiety. But revisiting the past is never straightforward, and she soon discovers that she can no longer run from the things she's tried so hard to leave behind. Her ex-boyfriend Rob, the once-love of her life, is still living in her hometown, and Annie barely has time to process what seeing him again could mean before another surprising figure appears on her friend and mentor's doorstep. Suddenly, Annie's quiet sabbatical has turned into a whirlwind of traumatic memories and new romance, and the responsibility of navigating her PTSD without burdening anyone else in her life threatens to overwhelm her. But even flawed love can help us to heal in unexpected ways, if we can only learn to accept it. Annie's journey will keep readers glued to the page, brimming with compassion and rooting for her to find the love and peace she deserves.
360 pages, Paperback
First published February 19, 2020
2 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Turner
8 books38 followersKatherine Turner is an award-winning author, and a life-long reader and writer. She grew up in foster care from the age of eight and is passionate about improving the world through literature, empathy, and understanding. In addition to writing books, Katherine blogs about mental health, trauma, and the need for compassion on her website www.kturnerwrites.com. She lives in northern Virginia with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 13, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Annie suffers from PTSD. Annie was abused for most of her life, but things change when Miriam adopts Annie and her sister and gives them a new, happier life. Rob and his brother Charlie have also grown up in foster care, and he and his brother are typical young ruffians, drinking and living hard. But everything changes when Rob meets Annie in high school. She is his soulmate. But something terrible happens and one day, Annie leaves town, rarely to return.
Twelve years later, Annie returns to house sit for Miriam for a year. Rob has never forgotten Annie - nor forgiven her for leaving him without an explanation, effectively abandoning him. Annie can't tell Rob the reason why she left. She knows it would destroy him as much as it has destroyed her own peace of mind.
Annie falls into a relationship with Lucas, the grandson of her old neighbour Mrs. Renner. Is Rob destined to stand on the sidelines and watch Annie heal with the help of another man, or will Annie finally tell Rob the reason she left abruptly so many years ago, and give their love a second chance?
In her acknowledgement, the author reveals that she too was a victim of abuse, much like her character Annie. Like the author, Annie found someone to support her and be there for her in her darkest times. Quite an emotional read. My thanks to the author, publisher and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC in return for an honest review.
I rate this a 3.75 out of 5.
Annie suffers from PTSD. Annie was abused for most of her life, but things change when Miriam adopts Annie and her sister and gives them a new, happier life. Rob and his brother Charlie have also grown up in foster care, and he and his brother are typical young ruffians, drinking and living hard. But everything changes when Rob meets Annie in high school. She is his soulmate. But something terrible happens and one day, Annie leaves town, rarely to return.
Twelve years later, Annie returns to house sit for Miriam for a year. Rob has never forgotten Annie - nor forgiven her for leaving him without an explanation, effectively abandoning him. Annie can't tell Rob the reason why she left. She knows it would destroy him as much as it has destroyed her own peace of mind.
Annie falls into a relationship with Lucas, the grandson of her old neighbour Mrs. Renner. Is Rob destined to stand on the sidelines and watch Annie heal with the help of another man, or will Annie finally tell Rob the reason she left abruptly so many years ago, and give their love a second chance?
In her acknowledgement, the author reveals that she too was a victim of abuse, much like her character Annie. Like the author, Annie found someone to support her and be there for her in her darkest times. Quite an emotional read. My thanks to the author, publisher and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC in return for an honest review.
I rate this a 3.75 out of 5.
July 30, 2020
WOW... that was EMOTIONAL. Katherine Turner has seriously impressed me with her debut novel. It's hard to say that I "enjoyed" the book when it is centred around some of the most horrific topics. It was a great read and I highly recommend it- an intensely bitter-sweet love story.
To be honest I am usually very skeptical about debut authors and Katherine Turner has pleasantly surprised me. "Finding Annie" is filled to the brim with emotion. You can find happiness, terror, excitement, fear, all consuming love...you name it and this book makes you FEEL.EVERY.WORD. By the end I was so emotionally exhausted that I waited 3 days to write this review and even as I'm writing it I can barely find the words to describe what I just went through.
Katherine Turned has done a tremendous job in this novel. Her writing style was right up my alley and I truly enjoyed it. She writes about some of the most difficult topics and most horrific experiences while staying true to the characters and their emotions. Letting you live what they are experiencing through every word she writes. At times the book was a little too intense for me as I had a hard time reading the traumatically descriptive scenes- I had to put the book down and walk away to gather myself and my thoughts. Should be trigger warnings all over this book.
Overall, Turner has done a remarkable job with her first novel and I look forward to reading more of her work. Highly recommended read.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
To be honest I am usually very skeptical about debut authors and Katherine Turner has pleasantly surprised me. "Finding Annie" is filled to the brim with emotion. You can find happiness, terror, excitement, fear, all consuming love...you name it and this book makes you FEEL.EVERY.WORD. By the end I was so emotionally exhausted that I waited 3 days to write this review and even as I'm writing it I can barely find the words to describe what I just went through.
Katherine Turned has done a tremendous job in this novel. Her writing style was right up my alley and I truly enjoyed it. She writes about some of the most difficult topics and most horrific experiences while staying true to the characters and their emotions. Letting you live what they are experiencing through every word she writes. At times the book was a little too intense for me as I had a hard time reading the traumatically descriptive scenes- I had to put the book down and walk away to gather myself and my thoughts. Should be trigger warnings all over this book.
Overall, Turner has done a remarkable job with her first novel and I look forward to reading more of her work. Highly recommended read.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2020
This is the first book I’ve read by Katherine Turner and for the most part, I enjoyed this book. The main character, Annie Turner, had a traumatic childhood and as a result, she has anxiety. When Annie and her sister, Lori, are adopted by Miriam things start looking up for them. Annie gets a boyfriend, Rob and they fall in love. Twelve years ago, Annie left him without a word. Now she’s back in Stockwood, house sitting while Miriam is traveling around Europe and Asia with Aunt Jeanine. Now, this is where the story heats up. Annie meets Lucas and he’s romantically interested in her, but Rob still is too. Who will she choose? I’m not going to leave any spoilers, but I will say secrets will be revealed, so be prepared. I really liked a lot of the characters in this book, but if I had of known it ended on a cliffhanger, I wouldn’t have chosen to read this book until the next book was published.
March 11, 2020
Since I started reading 'Finding Annie', I couldn't put it down. What a beautiful story! I loved the characters from the prologue to the last page, and I could feel with intensity each of their actions (All the raw emotions! The romance! The tension!). I could deeply understand their motivations and everything falls into place in every line.
Katherine Turner makes an incredible work to bring the readers close to the mind and heart of a survivor, and for that, I thank her very much. Through her book, she has brought to my world situations that I've never considered before about living with the aftermath of trauma caused by abuse and rape. As women, we know exactly how the world can be hard on us, and even for those that haven't experienced any kind of violence, there is always the shadow of a 'yet' hanging on the back of our minds. More than a beautiful story about the power of love in the process of healing from trauma, Katherine's book is an important addition to the discussion of how we are going to create a world where being a woman is not a threat to your life.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Katherine Turner makes an incredible work to bring the readers close to the mind and heart of a survivor, and for that, I thank her very much. Through her book, she has brought to my world situations that I've never considered before about living with the aftermath of trauma caused by abuse and rape. As women, we know exactly how the world can be hard on us, and even for those that haven't experienced any kind of violence, there is always the shadow of a 'yet' hanging on the back of our minds. More than a beautiful story about the power of love in the process of healing from trauma, Katherine's book is an important addition to the discussion of how we are going to create a world where being a woman is not a threat to your life.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 11, 2020
I’m not usually a big fan of the romance genre, I think because much of it feels unrealistic to me. Don’t get me wrong, I love a happy ending, but usually the characters in a romance novel feel like they come from the category of “beautiful people.” They’re badass and sexy and always have a witty one-liner at hand. But when I started reading Finding Annie—a novel that falls very much into the romance genre—I was pleasantly surprised. Yes, this is definitely a romance, but no, the characters are not at all perfect. In fact, the main character was a lot like…me. Wow, that’s refreshing.
Let me go into a bit more detail: Annie is a woman who comes from a traumatic past. Abuse, neglect, abandonment, you name it, she’s been through it. I had a pretty rough childhood myself, and a really weird adulthood, so I could relate to Annie’s background and challenges strongly, to say the least. I loved that we saw, not only her vulnerable side, but the hidden layers from her childhood that contained so much pain. And I loved that we also saw how these layers affected her present-day adult life. It is exceedingly rare to find a novel that deals with the real issues around sexuality that so many women (myself included) struggle with and deal with on a daily basis. Katherine Turner hits it out of the park on this one. She really shows the complexity around sex and desire that happens when you have abuse in your past.
I don’t want to give spoilers, but the last thing I’ll say is that the romantic tension and momentum of this story was off the charts. I honestly didn’t know what would happen with the characters, or if the two characters I wanted to get together would get together. The power and intensity of some of the last love scenes hit me hard, and I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I highly recommend Finding Annie to anyone who loves romance, literary fiction, novels that explore mental health issues and trauma, and/or a really well-written story.
Let me go into a bit more detail: Annie is a woman who comes from a traumatic past. Abuse, neglect, abandonment, you name it, she’s been through it. I had a pretty rough childhood myself, and a really weird adulthood, so I could relate to Annie’s background and challenges strongly, to say the least. I loved that we saw, not only her vulnerable side, but the hidden layers from her childhood that contained so much pain. And I loved that we also saw how these layers affected her present-day adult life. It is exceedingly rare to find a novel that deals with the real issues around sexuality that so many women (myself included) struggle with and deal with on a daily basis. Katherine Turner hits it out of the park on this one. She really shows the complexity around sex and desire that happens when you have abuse in your past.
I don’t want to give spoilers, but the last thing I’ll say is that the romantic tension and momentum of this story was off the charts. I honestly didn’t know what would happen with the characters, or if the two characters I wanted to get together would get together. The power and intensity of some of the last love scenes hit me hard, and I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I highly recommend Finding Annie to anyone who loves romance, literary fiction, novels that explore mental health issues and trauma, and/or a really well-written story.
August 18, 2020
Annie abruptly left her hometown twelve years ago, leaving those she loved, including Rob, behind. Annie has come back, to housesit for her mother, but when she sees Rob will she be able to deal with the memories and emotions, both good and bad, that caused her to leave in the first place? Or will Lucas, the grandson of her mentor, be able to break through her defenses and give her hope for the future?
This books deals with the serious issues of neglect, abandonment, and sexual assault, and how victims are profoundly affected. The author made me feel genuine heartbreak, empathy and compassion for more than one character in this book, and I wanted them all to find the love and healing they deserved. The author also makes the characters in this book all the more realistic by presenting them with flaws.
The level of profanity in this book was too much for me. I can deal with swearing, especially in moments of emotion or drama, but it seemed like a couple of characters in this book couldn't say anything without dropping the f bomb. Unfortunately, for me, this took a bit away from the impact of the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This books deals with the serious issues of neglect, abandonment, and sexual assault, and how victims are profoundly affected. The author made me feel genuine heartbreak, empathy and compassion for more than one character in this book, and I wanted them all to find the love and healing they deserved. The author also makes the characters in this book all the more realistic by presenting them with flaws.
The level of profanity in this book was too much for me. I can deal with swearing, especially in moments of emotion or drama, but it seemed like a couple of characters in this book couldn't say anything without dropping the f bomb. Unfortunately, for me, this took a bit away from the impact of the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 23, 2020
Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down! Annie is back in her hometown for a sabbatical year while her mom is traveling overseas. Going back to her old life means facing the people she hasn’t seen for twelve years, including the sweet and wise Mrs. Renner, the scary and dangerous Charlie, and her intense and protective ex-boyfriend, Rob. As I turned pages, I felt emotions rushing when I found out about Annie’s childhood, the reason she left the city without saying goodbye, and how those ghosts never left her alone. Narrated by the points of view of Annie and Rob, this is a beautifully-written story about the long and difficult process of healing from bad traumas through love. The dialogs are to the point and move the narrative in an enjoyable pace. I felt connected to the character, and thanks to the excellent caption of the scenes I could feel the fear, the pain, and the joy they experienced from page one. I loved it from cover to cover! It is important to shine a light on how sexual abuse is NEVER, EVER, the victim’s fault. I got an ARC in exchange for my honest review and I am grateful for having the opportunity of reading this amazing book!!
February 20, 2020
What a heart wrenching and emotional roller coaster! Annie comes home after 12 years to house sit while her mother is away on vacation. The story then proceeds to unfold from two POV alternating chapters using dialogue and flashbacks revealing progressively deeper and darker secrets that continue to affect characters in the present. Annie and Rob first met in high school and did not seem to be a likely couple. As the story progresses we learn more and more about their tormented relationship and the many factors affecting their lives. I found the descriptions and personal character reflections to be so vivid, it was very easy to empathize with individuals. The dark secrets of sexual abuse, neglect, abandonment and rape are all interwoven in the characters tale as they try to come to terms with each and heal. It was uncomfortable to read some of the very graphic serious scenes-but emotionally was a very satisfying story worth taking the time to complete. I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 12, 2020
Finding Annie is an emotional and tragic story. Overall, I enjoyed reading it. The best thing about this book is that it is really well-written and the author has captured the essence of all the sensitive issued beautifully. The only thing I didn't like was the pacing. It is quite slow for my taste but definitely will be perfect for readers who prefer slow-paced stories, where everything is unfolding slowly and every little detail is hashed out. Unfortunately, I prefer fast-paced stories that don't let you take a breath. In any case, I loved this book for all the other reasons and would recommend to all readers who don't mind reading emotional stories about past traumas and second chances.
P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book.
P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book.
April 9, 2020
The author said it best: “If instead you are looking for a tale of realistic life experiences, wanting to feel true despair and regret, cry and rail against the characters, and then discover hope alongside them, then welcome.”
And she is right…. this book about imperfect people. One of pain and endurance, but one that leads to the light at the end of the tunnel.
Make no mistake. This is a love story, just not your typical love story found in many romance novels. This is more real. It gives a true to life picture of growing up and living in dire circumstances. Abuse, both physical and sexual will be addressed along with the byproducts of feeling inadequate and worthless
.
But it’s also a book of hope and one of a personal strength, a strength not many could manage to build. It’s a story of endurance. It’s a story of unconditional love. Memories don’t remain buried, they are painful when exposed. Yes, Finding Annie definitely is heartbreaking, but it’s also a journey to healing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And she is right…. this book about imperfect people. One of pain and endurance, but one that leads to the light at the end of the tunnel.
Make no mistake. This is a love story, just not your typical love story found in many romance novels. This is more real. It gives a true to life picture of growing up and living in dire circumstances. Abuse, both physical and sexual will be addressed along with the byproducts of feeling inadequate and worthless
.
But it’s also a book of hope and one of a personal strength, a strength not many could manage to build. It’s a story of endurance. It’s a story of unconditional love. Memories don’t remain buried, they are painful when exposed. Yes, Finding Annie definitely is heartbreaking, but it’s also a journey to healing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 17, 2020
I wasn’t sure what to expect when starting this book. It was given to me by the author for personal reasons, without any request for a review, and my decision to write this was based solely on how much I enjoyed the book.
You don’t know me, but I will tell you honestly I am not a romance novel reader. The stories told in them generally lack the depth of emotion I need to connect. But then, Finding Annie is not your typical romance. It takes all of your expectations and turns them right on their head in the best way.
Others here have given a brief description of the happenings, so I’ll refrain, but I will say that Katherine Turner taps into the vein of something deeper than romance. She dives into the broken, bleeding, beating heart of humanity and brings our deepest needs and fears to the surface in a true representation of love. We are all damaged in some way or another, and connection to these characters was instantaneous for me, Annie’s self-depreciating and fractured nature especially. I found myself needing to know what was going on in both Annie and Rob’s heads, and it’s interesting to note, reading Rob’s parts gave me a much-needed opposing perspective on what others may be thinking.
The prose is intuitive, and the flow done well, making it hard to pull yourself away from continuing to the next chapter. As is always the case with books by fellow INFJs, this reading served a purpose in my life at an especially important time. I would highly recommend this book to anyone, regardless of their usual genre.
You don’t know me, but I will tell you honestly I am not a romance novel reader. The stories told in them generally lack the depth of emotion I need to connect. But then, Finding Annie is not your typical romance. It takes all of your expectations and turns them right on their head in the best way.
Others here have given a brief description of the happenings, so I’ll refrain, but I will say that Katherine Turner taps into the vein of something deeper than romance. She dives into the broken, bleeding, beating heart of humanity and brings our deepest needs and fears to the surface in a true representation of love. We are all damaged in some way or another, and connection to these characters was instantaneous for me, Annie’s self-depreciating and fractured nature especially. I found myself needing to know what was going on in both Annie and Rob’s heads, and it’s interesting to note, reading Rob’s parts gave me a much-needed opposing perspective on what others may be thinking.
The prose is intuitive, and the flow done well, making it hard to pull yourself away from continuing to the next chapter. As is always the case with books by fellow INFJs, this reading served a purpose in my life at an especially important time. I would highly recommend this book to anyone, regardless of their usual genre.
February 19, 2021
***NOVEL THOUGHTS***
+++Thank you to Book Sirens and the author for providing me an ARC of this book+++
This is a disturbing story and one that needs to be told, again and again, until it is finally understood what psychological damage sexual abuse will do to a person, how it will affect future relationships, intimacy, and internal feelings of self worth and trust. It also needs to be told that children need to be believed when they share that something bad happened when in the care of an adult. And women need to be believed when they say that they have been touched, fondled, abused or violated by someone. The #MeToo movement didn't happen out of the blue.
Katherine Turner has given voice to sexual violence through her character Annie who not only suffered a horrific childhood of molestation but then a sexual violation in her teens by a person known to her. This moment will infiltrate her relationships going forward and keep her from feeling safe as each time she attempts to be intimate, she has flashbacks. The men in her life don't understand what is going on with her despite their patience. This aspect of the story is powerful and provocative and I hope that it compels others who have gone through anything like this to seek help as Annie never did seem to find a voice or help but lived with the guilt, embarrassment, fear, disgust and anxiety since the episode occurred. It was only through support of her friends and family after they found out about the rape as a teen, that she was finally able to find her way out of the fog of this memory and find a way to begin to trust again.
Let me first say that as the author opens the book, she describes an interaction she had with a English teacher who dissed her assignment which took the wind out of her sails for writing. She finally got the courage to write her book anyway and I always applaud the effort because, heck, I've never written a book! The theme of this book was so important to the author; it was cathartic and informative. But, I think that it needed a lot more revision and editing. The was so much redundancy in word and action and while she was headed in the right direction, it needed to be so much tighter. A whole chapter is devoted to the jobs the friends have! Was that even necessary? There is so much violence: both Charlie and Rob have serious anger issues and that wasn't addressed very well. The only calming voice is the neighbor Mrs. Renner, the elderly sage to whom they all vent. And last but not least, the amount of profanity was just so overwhelming for me. I don't know why the author chose to do this, but for me, it took away value from the story. And the one big glaring part for me was what took them so long to contact Annie's mother, Miriam who is away on a lengthy trip with friends? After Annie is attacked, hospitalized, no one thinks to call her? It's not until the second hospitalization over a week later that her sister Lori finally decides to reach out by email!! Email!! That was absurd!!
+++Thank you to Book Sirens and the author for providing me an ARC of this book+++
This is a disturbing story and one that needs to be told, again and again, until it is finally understood what psychological damage sexual abuse will do to a person, how it will affect future relationships, intimacy, and internal feelings of self worth and trust. It also needs to be told that children need to be believed when they share that something bad happened when in the care of an adult. And women need to be believed when they say that they have been touched, fondled, abused or violated by someone. The #MeToo movement didn't happen out of the blue.
Katherine Turner has given voice to sexual violence through her character Annie who not only suffered a horrific childhood of molestation but then a sexual violation in her teens by a person known to her. This moment will infiltrate her relationships going forward and keep her from feeling safe as each time she attempts to be intimate, she has flashbacks. The men in her life don't understand what is going on with her despite their patience. This aspect of the story is powerful and provocative and I hope that it compels others who have gone through anything like this to seek help as Annie never did seem to find a voice or help but lived with the guilt, embarrassment, fear, disgust and anxiety since the episode occurred. It was only through support of her friends and family after they found out about the rape as a teen, that she was finally able to find her way out of the fog of this memory and find a way to begin to trust again.
Let me first say that as the author opens the book, she describes an interaction she had with a English teacher who dissed her assignment which took the wind out of her sails for writing. She finally got the courage to write her book anyway and I always applaud the effort because, heck, I've never written a book! The theme of this book was so important to the author; it was cathartic and informative. But, I think that it needed a lot more revision and editing. The was so much redundancy in word and action and while she was headed in the right direction, it needed to be so much tighter. A whole chapter is devoted to the jobs the friends have! Was that even necessary? There is so much violence: both Charlie and Rob have serious anger issues and that wasn't addressed very well. The only calming voice is the neighbor Mrs. Renner, the elderly sage to whom they all vent. And last but not least, the amount of profanity was just so overwhelming for me. I don't know why the author chose to do this, but for me, it took away value from the story. And the one big glaring part for me was what took them so long to contact Annie's mother, Miriam who is away on a lengthy trip with friends? After Annie is attacked, hospitalized, no one thinks to call her? It's not until the second hospitalization over a week later that her sister Lori finally decides to reach out by email!! Email!! That was absurd!!
March 3, 2022
This is my second book by Katherine Turner. I loved her memoir, resilient, and could see a lot of overlap between Katherine and Annie’s stories. Turner describes PTSD and anxiety incredibly well (says someone who has lived with both). What I appreciate about Turner is that she never shies away from the gritty moments, which is why I was surprised that some of the dialogue of the romantic interests were a little too sweet for me.
The amount of toxic masculinity in Finding Annie made me a little uncomfortable. Both Rob and Lucas are incredibly obsessive over Annie. They get violent. There is a lot of cursing (which I’m told will less as the series goes on). I think the book would have been more tolerable without Rob’s point of view. But let’s face it- Annie has unhealthy relationships with both of them. I would have liked to see Annie continue to focus on herself and rebuilding her life, but it after talking to the author, that part is yet to come :)
In regards to the romance aspect, I would have liked more of a slow burn, and in turn, more depth. By the end of the novel, I didn’t feel like I really got into Annie’s head. I don’t think Annie even knew how she felt most of the time. Luckily, there was Mrs. Renner: the voice of reason. More fully fleshed out characters (including Annie) would have helped me find out what makes Annie, Annie. Again, Turner says this will happen in future books!
I will definitely read the sequel (Willow Wishes will be released on April 10) to see the next part of Annie’s journey as she develops her sense of self and continues to heal.
Many thanks to the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
CW: SA, assault, self harm, addiction, suicide
The amount of toxic masculinity in Finding Annie made me a little uncomfortable. Both Rob and Lucas are incredibly obsessive over Annie. They get violent. There is a lot of cursing (which I’m told will less as the series goes on). I think the book would have been more tolerable without Rob’s point of view. But let’s face it- Annie has unhealthy relationships with both of them. I would have liked to see Annie continue to focus on herself and rebuilding her life, but it after talking to the author, that part is yet to come :)
In regards to the romance aspect, I would have liked more of a slow burn, and in turn, more depth. By the end of the novel, I didn’t feel like I really got into Annie’s head. I don’t think Annie even knew how she felt most of the time. Luckily, there was Mrs. Renner: the voice of reason. More fully fleshed out characters (including Annie) would have helped me find out what makes Annie, Annie. Again, Turner says this will happen in future books!
I will definitely read the sequel (Willow Wishes will be released on April 10) to see the next part of Annie’s journey as she develops her sense of self and continues to heal.
Many thanks to the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
CW: SA, assault, self harm, addiction, suicide
May 10, 2020
I loved this book! From the very first lines I fell into the characters and couldn't stop reading.
The two main characters were so well thought out and their internal and external struggles were so pure and perfectly written. I know these characters. I am one of these characters.
I have suffered similar trauma in my own life and usually when reading a book that deals with that, I find a million things wrong with how it is portrayed. Not this time. This time I found zero flaws. Sometimes it was painful to read because it was so personal for me but that's what made it such a great story. It was real. It is real.
I am so excited that this is going to be a series. I can't wait to read more about the other lesser characters and see where the author takes their stories. Get to know them and bring them into my life like I already have with Annie and Rob.
Thank you for telling this story. For giving me and everyone else access to these beautifully flawed individuals.
I rarely give five stars but this warranted that rating from me. I will hold onto this story and these people for a long time and can't wait to visit with them again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The two main characters were so well thought out and their internal and external struggles were so pure and perfectly written. I know these characters. I am one of these characters.
I have suffered similar trauma in my own life and usually when reading a book that deals with that, I find a million things wrong with how it is portrayed. Not this time. This time I found zero flaws. Sometimes it was painful to read because it was so personal for me but that's what made it such a great story. It was real. It is real.
I am so excited that this is going to be a series. I can't wait to read more about the other lesser characters and see where the author takes their stories. Get to know them and bring them into my life like I already have with Annie and Rob.
Thank you for telling this story. For giving me and everyone else access to these beautifully flawed individuals.
I rarely give five stars but this warranted that rating from me. I will hold onto this story and these people for a long time and can't wait to visit with them again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 7, 2020
Read this book. I'm having a hard time even putting into words all the feelings I had reading this book. It was tragic, it was romantic, it was difficult to read, but it is something that will stay with me.
Finding Annie is a novel full of difficult situations. Horrific sexual abuses occur, but while that is an unavaoidable truth in this book, the real gem found is in the journey towards healing. Nothing is sugar coated, there is no single moment when everything is immediately made better by a love that conquers all. That is what is so intriguing and raw about this book.
A heart wrenching love triangle where there is no real bad guy, no character that doesn't deserve the girl. A host of people in their lives who are fallible, who aren't always supportive in the way that they could or should be. Characters who make mistakes and learn from them or don't are found throughout this book.
There is no magic cure, there is no perfect time when all is forgotten or magically swept under the bridge. That is what is so tremendous about Finding Annie. This was truly one of the novels that will stay with me, and make me think for a long time to come. Well done, Katherine Turner.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Finding Annie is a novel full of difficult situations. Horrific sexual abuses occur, but while that is an unavaoidable truth in this book, the real gem found is in the journey towards healing. Nothing is sugar coated, there is no single moment when everything is immediately made better by a love that conquers all. That is what is so intriguing and raw about this book.
A heart wrenching love triangle where there is no real bad guy, no character that doesn't deserve the girl. A host of people in their lives who are fallible, who aren't always supportive in the way that they could or should be. Characters who make mistakes and learn from them or don't are found throughout this book.
There is no magic cure, there is no perfect time when all is forgotten or magically swept under the bridge. That is what is so tremendous about Finding Annie. This was truly one of the novels that will stay with me, and make me think for a long time to come. Well done, Katherine Turner.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2020
Finding Annie by Katherine Turner was first book I have read by her! OMG is what I want to start out by saying! This was such an emotional read that it was really hard to put it down! Annie Turner had been abused as a young child and had severe PTSD. Annie tried dealing with this on her own because she was told not to talk about it? She met Rob during high school and he was a trouble teen do to being moved around in foster care. His older brother Charlie was his worse nightmare getting him into all kinds of trouble. But then Annie and Rob starting helping each other cope with their problems until the night Charlie raped Annie. Annie couldn’t deal with this so she left town for 12 years.
She comes back to take care of her Mom’s house why she was traveling. Mrs. Renner was a neighbor that always took Annie under her wing and helped her with her problems. In turn Annie always helped Mrs. Renner around the house. When Annie shows up she goes over to see Mrs. Renner and she runs into Lucas her grandson. Lucas starts seeing Annie but he just can’t be with her because of all of Annie’s problems. So it is a race between Rob & Lucas all getting Annie’s attention. Honestly this book was so honest in so many ways that I cried reading it and seeing how broken families can cause so many problems and not seeking help.
I would definitely recommend this book for all adults to read. I did receive this book for an honest review fro BookSirens.
August 20, 2020
This book is one of the most emotional books I’ve read. I loved and disliked it at the same time. I love her writing style and the storyline. I hated the way I felt sometimes while reading it, it brought back memories best left forgotten (nothing near as bad as what the book held, though!).
I experienced mostly frustration, anger, empathy and sadness while reading it. It was heartbreaking. Even the love seemed sad, it was so extreme, but I was cheering them on all the way through.
I almost didn’t finish because it was too emotional, but I kept on and glad I did. It is very different from the HEA books I normally read, it is more real to life. What an amazing debut novel, I think the author has a brilliant future writing. I was gifted an ARC by BookSirens and this is my honest opinion and review.
I experienced mostly frustration, anger, empathy and sadness while reading it. It was heartbreaking. Even the love seemed sad, it was so extreme, but I was cheering them on all the way through.
I almost didn’t finish because it was too emotional, but I kept on and glad I did. It is very different from the HEA books I normally read, it is more real to life. What an amazing debut novel, I think the author has a brilliant future writing. I was gifted an ARC by BookSirens and this is my honest opinion and review.
March 28, 2020
While Finding Annie isn't always an easy book to read, its characters and their stories will keep you engrossed as Turner metes out in small doses the entangled pieces of their lives.
Painful memories, long buried, fight to break the surface. But will allowing them into the light of day finally vanquish them, or just further muddy the waters? This is a story of homecoming and healing. Of resolution and forgiveness. I found it difficult to put down even as I found some passages painful to read. Turner has done excellent work.
[Many thanks to Booksirens and the author for the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review, the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.]
Painful memories, long buried, fight to break the surface. But will allowing them into the light of day finally vanquish them, or just further muddy the waters? This is a story of homecoming and healing. Of resolution and forgiveness. I found it difficult to put down even as I found some passages painful to read. Turner has done excellent work.
[Many thanks to Booksirens and the author for the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review, the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.]
April 22, 2020
This is a beautiful story of love triumphing troubled pasts. Both Annie and Rob had terrible childhoods, lacking in love and all the things that instill a sense of self worth. Annie and her sister were eventually adopted by a woman who gave them a mother's love, but it never fully filled the spaces left by a troubled childhood. Annie has also experienced some level of sexual assault and it was denied by her father. Rob and his brother also lacked the parental love and care to grow up as well-adjusted men. Rob's brother raped Annie in high school and Annie left town without saying goodbye to anyone, even to Rob.
Now some years later, Annie takes a one-year leave from her job to care for her adopted mother's home while she is traveling. Annie did not expect to run into Rob and rekindling of their old relationship pre-Charlie's attack. She also did not expect to develop a relationship with her old mentor's grandson, Lucas. The three of them have much to work out, for Annie and Rob it includes dealing with all the old tapes.
A lovely book. I did feel there were some loose ends and perhaps a rushed ending, but I was overall impressed and would read other works by this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Now some years later, Annie takes a one-year leave from her job to care for her adopted mother's home while she is traveling. Annie did not expect to run into Rob and rekindling of their old relationship pre-Charlie's attack. She also did not expect to develop a relationship with her old mentor's grandson, Lucas. The three of them have much to work out, for Annie and Rob it includes dealing with all the old tapes.
A lovely book. I did feel there were some loose ends and perhaps a rushed ending, but I was overall impressed and would read other works by this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 17, 2020
For a debut novel by Katherine Turner, this was a full on in your face book that opens your eyes to a whole new world.
Yes, for a big part of this book, it was reasonably hard to read, but then it normally is when your dealing with the issue's this novel was about.
Saying that though, I liked the depth the Author took me to fully get across the story she wanted to tell and to do it justice, she needed to go deep and at times it wasn't pretty, it was down right rough.
Annie had the early years no child should have to deal with but she did. Her journey through this story was certainly a bumpy ride but to see her blossom at different times was pleasing to see. Bit by bit you see her get stronger in herself.
Rob I liked pretty much from the start. Yes he was rough around the edges but I felt that was part of his charm. Yes he was intense but was understandable. He knew Annie so well and my heart went out to him a few times. He loved wholeheartedly. Even he grew through this story which was great to see.
Lucas was a nice guy and an interesting character in this story. A big part though, my heart went out to him as well.
Haley was a total character and again someone who you would love to have as a friend. I hope we get to see more of her in this series. Same with Linc and Carol.
The ending kind of caught me off guard I have to say. I didnt expect the cliff hanger, but hey it certainly has me hooked to see where this story takes us.
Overall, I thought this story was well written and it flowed well. It opens your eyes to mental health and abuse and what it does to ones mind and bahaviour.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntairily.
Yes, for a big part of this book, it was reasonably hard to read, but then it normally is when your dealing with the issue's this novel was about.
Saying that though, I liked the depth the Author took me to fully get across the story she wanted to tell and to do it justice, she needed to go deep and at times it wasn't pretty, it was down right rough.
Annie had the early years no child should have to deal with but she did. Her journey through this story was certainly a bumpy ride but to see her blossom at different times was pleasing to see. Bit by bit you see her get stronger in herself.
Rob I liked pretty much from the start. Yes he was rough around the edges but I felt that was part of his charm. Yes he was intense but was understandable. He knew Annie so well and my heart went out to him a few times. He loved wholeheartedly. Even he grew through this story which was great to see.
Lucas was a nice guy and an interesting character in this story. A big part though, my heart went out to him as well.
Haley was a total character and again someone who you would love to have as a friend. I hope we get to see more of her in this series. Same with Linc and Carol.
The ending kind of caught me off guard I have to say. I didnt expect the cliff hanger, but hey it certainly has me hooked to see where this story takes us.
Overall, I thought this story was well written and it flowed well. It opens your eyes to mental health and abuse and what it does to ones mind and bahaviour.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntairily.
March 11, 2020
Wowza, what a book!! I was so invested in Annie's story and could not be happier that she had Rob in her life. I felt her pain, I felt her strength, I felt her crazy, this book just made me FEEL!! I was devastated when Annie left her hometown without Rob; but upon learning the circumstances after she returns home 12 years later, was heart wrenching and I just couldn't be more happy that Rob continued to be the rock she needed even after all those years.
This is the first book I've read of this author, and I hope to read many more. I thoroughly enjoyed her words, even when the storyline was not enjoyable! She pulled me in from the beginning of the book and I was invested the entire way through.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the first book I've read of this author, and I hope to read many more. I thoroughly enjoyed her words, even when the storyline was not enjoyable! She pulled me in from the beginning of the book and I was invested the entire way through.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 11, 2020
This is the 1st book I've read written by Katherine Turner; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2020
I could not put this book down. I felt so many emotions while reading it. The connection between the two main characters was so deep and intense you could almost feel what they were feeling. I have not read a book before that addressed the deep issues that were in this book. I loved reading Annie’s point of view because it helped me to understand how she coped with those tragic life experiences. I highly recommend this book.
June 28, 2020
Finding Annie is a gripping and authentic read about a woman who needs to face her traumatic past to find a way forward, a way to resume her life. Her past casts long shadows over her present and future. Katherine Turner has managed to capture perfectly the continuous struggle within a trauma victim's mind to deal with the lasting psychological burden of victimization. The inability of assault victims to forgive themselves despite assurances that they're not to blame for what has happened to them. She shows us that recovery is a bumpy ride with detours and set-back's, and that love doesn't need to be perfect to be exactly right for the people involved. A heartbreaking and eye-opening read.
August 21, 2020
An inspiring and worthwhile read that gives us a peek into trauma and how Annie, the main character, deals with the aftermath. A strong character who gives us an understanding into holding on when life takes us to some dark crossroads.
Find out more in my breakdown blog review: https://rebeccaswriteinspirations.blo...
Find out more in my breakdown blog review: https://rebeccaswriteinspirations.blo...
April 12, 2020
Annie leaves home after high school, breaking Rob's heart and his spirit. Twelve years later, she back, but can't/won't be with Rob. She begins a relationship with Lucas, and they fall in love. But he's absent when she needs him most. Giving Rob an opportunity...
This is a heart-wrenching story, with a roller coaster of emotions. It wasn't easy to read, but well worth the time and effort. Rob - I love that even though he has his bad times with his brother after Annie leaves, he manages to put his life back together. And how hopeful that he bought that house that Annie always loved, wishing that she would come back so they could be there together. Annie - the worst thing imaginable happened to her, and she never told anyone. And she's suffered for years, both from the event itself, and from her silence. Carol and Linc - they seem like good enough people, but Haley - good Lord, more than a few times, I wanted to reach into the book and dress her down for the uncaring and unfeeling comments she makes to and about Annie. Lucas - seems like a nice enough fellow, and he treats Annie with so much respect, but lets her down that one time when it was so important. Lori - she seems to have her own issues, and is too self-centered to really care about what happened to Annie. Charlie - well, it's pretty clear what he did, and also what a scumbag he is, and I'm glad that Rob's eyes are opened. Mrs. Renner - everyone needs a friend and confidante like her; she listens well, doles out a small amount of sound advice, and never betrays the trust placed in her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a heart-wrenching story, with a roller coaster of emotions. It wasn't easy to read, but well worth the time and effort. Rob - I love that even though he has his bad times with his brother after Annie leaves, he manages to put his life back together. And how hopeful that he bought that house that Annie always loved, wishing that she would come back so they could be there together. Annie - the worst thing imaginable happened to her, and she never told anyone. And she's suffered for years, both from the event itself, and from her silence. Carol and Linc - they seem like good enough people, but Haley - good Lord, more than a few times, I wanted to reach into the book and dress her down for the uncaring and unfeeling comments she makes to and about Annie. Lucas - seems like a nice enough fellow, and he treats Annie with so much respect, but lets her down that one time when it was so important. Lori - she seems to have her own issues, and is too self-centered to really care about what happened to Annie. Charlie - well, it's pretty clear what he did, and also what a scumbag he is, and I'm glad that Rob's eyes are opened. Mrs. Renner - everyone needs a friend and confidante like her; she listens well, doles out a small amount of sound advice, and never betrays the trust placed in her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2020
I received an ARC from BookSirens for an honest review. The book is the story of Annie who left home 12 years ago. Now she is going back to housesit for her mother while she is away.
Sometimes it was difficult reading what Annie had gone through but the author did such a good job of writing the story. You could feel what Annie had gone through and facing her past. I think the book is going to be helpful for others who are going to be facing their past. I still cry thinking about what Annie went through.
Sometimes it was difficult reading what Annie had gone through but the author did such a good job of writing the story. You could feel what Annie had gone through and facing her past. I think the book is going to be helpful for others who are going to be facing their past. I still cry thinking about what Annie went through.
July 21, 2020
This book was phenomenal! I couldn’t put it down. It really pulled on the heart strings in every way possible. Rob and Annie are truly soulmates in the way their souls speak to each other. I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series. After reading this, I would gladly read anything Katherine Turner writes. This was so well done.
February 24, 2020
This is a very deep, traumatic read. There will be triggers for some, but worth the read. Annie is jacked up and I say that kindly. She had a horrible childhood and then she met Rob. True love until someone destroyed it for them. Now she is back and Rob is still there. Another man may be the one to release her from her mental bonds...maybe. Rob will fight till the end to show her that he will never give up. Hopefully, she will be able to realize who will always stand for her even when she can't do it herself.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 16, 2020
There were so many sentences I underlined in this book because they resonated with my INFJ-ness. Annie’s story took me somewhere else at just the right time; it’s worth the read. I normally don’t get into contemporary romance novels but Finding Annie gets right to the heart of an issue I feel people don’t want to talk about—sexual abuse and its many ugly, sometimes unrecognizable, heads. While reading, I found myself relating to Annie as she found comfort in imagining herself deep inside a painting, among the scenery—or feeling small enough to fold herself up inside her own body. I felt closest to Annie as she tried to strike a balance between recognizing and accepting abuse that had happened and giving herself permission to enjoy a human experience once she was ‘ older and wiser.' It’s a tough spot and I thank my INFJ friend and author, Katherine Turner, for opening up and diving so deep into such a taboo topic, making it easier for me to understand my own experiences. Looking forward to the next book in this series!
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