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Interrupted: A Life Beyond Words
Can love really heal all things?
If Sam Carroll hadn't shown up, she might have been able to get to her mother in time. Instead, Allie Everly finds herself at a funeral, mourning the loss of her beloved mother. She is dealt another blow when, a few hours later, she is sent from Tennessee to Maine to become the daughter of Miss Beatrice Lovell, a prim woman with a faith Allie cannot accept.
Poetry and letters written to her mother become the only things keeping Allie's heart from hardening completely. But then Sam arrives for the summer, and with him comes many confusing emotions, both toward him and the people around her. As World War II looms, Allie will be forced to decide whether hanging on to the past is worth losing her chance to be loved.
If Sam Carroll hadn't shown up, she might have been able to get to her mother in time. Instead, Allie Everly finds herself at a funeral, mourning the loss of her beloved mother. She is dealt another blow when, a few hours later, she is sent from Tennessee to Maine to become the daughter of Miss Beatrice Lovell, a prim woman with a faith Allie cannot accept.
Poetry and letters written to her mother become the only things keeping Allie's heart from hardening completely. But then Sam arrives for the summer, and with him comes many confusing emotions, both toward him and the people around her. As World War II looms, Allie will be forced to decide whether hanging on to the past is worth losing her chance to be loved.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published March 27, 2012
19 people are currently reading
1426 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Coker
2 books148 followersRachel Coker resides in Virginia with her parents and two sisters. She has a passion for great books, and has been surrounded by them all her life. Her gift for writing became apparent at the age of eleven, at which time her parents signed her up for a year of lessons with a professional writing coach. Rachel also has a deep love for classical music and old black-and-white movies. When she is not writing or playing the piano, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family and friends and serving her Lord and Savior.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
August 23, 2017
My rating: 5 stars
(This review is terribly overdue. Oh well.)
*jaw drops* This book was SO AMAZING!!!! Wow. I just loved it. From start to finish (which was like one day) it was super good. Because I can't seem to make all the feels come out in a legit sounding review, here's a list of amazing things I loved in this book. :)
- Alcyone's name. SO PRETTY!! I didn't know how to pronounce it properly until Miss Beatrice was spellin' it out to the school-secretary.
- Sam. I loved him from the beginning. :)
- all the Emily Dickinson. I've never read so much sweet, good poetry (as in, I actually LIKED it) in one day. ^_^
- Miss Beatrice's quotes. "I always say..." hehe. ;) And of course the ones that... "That didn't even rhyme." xD
- the setting is the 1930s-40s. I absolutely ADORE that time period. <3 What's not to love??
- THE WRITING. Seriously. It's so pretty and beautiful and good and amazing and...
Um, yeah. That's all I can think to say right now. :) (Translate to – this is one of the best books ever. Go read it right now, 'kay?)
(This review is terribly overdue. Oh well.)
*jaw drops* This book was SO AMAZING!!!! Wow. I just loved it. From start to finish (which was like one day) it was super good. Because I can't seem to make all the feels come out in a legit sounding review, here's a list of amazing things I loved in this book. :)
- Alcyone's name. SO PRETTY!! I didn't know how to pronounce it properly until Miss Beatrice was spellin' it out to the school-secretary.
- Sam. I loved him from the beginning. :)
- all the Emily Dickinson. I've never read so much sweet, good poetry (as in, I actually LIKED it) in one day. ^_^
- Miss Beatrice's quotes. "I always say..." hehe. ;) And of course the ones that... "That didn't even rhyme." xD
- the setting is the 1930s-40s. I absolutely ADORE that time period. <3 What's not to love??
- THE WRITING. Seriously. It's so pretty and beautiful and good and amazing and...
Um, yeah. That's all I can think to say right now. :) (Translate to – this is one of the best books ever. Go read it right now, 'kay?)
February 10, 2017
This is probably the twentieth time I've read this book, not exaggerating. :) I've been in a book slump and an old favorite is just the thing to get me inspired to read again. I have so much love for this one!!
April 19, 2020
{4.5 stars}
So, so sweet. Soooo good!
There are many books I've read that I have a lot of high expectations, but this one I never really did. Most reviews I've seen are really good, yet on the flip side I considered the fact that I might not like it.
But at the first page I was hooked. The interaction of Allie, her mom, and Sam just made me emotionally attached from the beginning. Poor, poor Allie. The first part wasn't very long, but it adds a part of the story that is relevant for the rest of the book.
The second part was the best! At times Allie annoyed me, but I love that she was so real. One moment she would be so happy with someone, and then the next she shielded herself from the people she loved. Her change wasn't over night either...it was a gradual process which was realistic as well. The part at the end involving Beatrice had me tearing up even in the middle of an airport!
The setting was wonderful too! There wasn't a whole lot of WW2 topics besides the fact that some men were off fighting, but I liked that for a change. It was nice to see normal life play out during the war years.
Oh, the characters were lovely! They all had something unique about them. Beatrice was lovely and my heart ached for her. Then there was Charlie (that's Allie's friend)...and Russell ;) Allie's mother. She made me so sad.
And then SAM! At first he was too perfect and I didn't like that. I mean I did, but no guy is every perfect, so it put me off ;) Everything with his problems was brought up and suddenly he wasn't just this great guy, but a real guy. The only thing that bugged me about him was how little he even talked about Christianity. It didn't seem to be part of his life and he would have been even more amazing he had spoken of it more!
There was no pre-marital kissing, although there is a little touching between the love interests. I never felt uncomfortable. One other thing for the half star off was the use of euphemism throughout the book that I don't recommend for every day speech.
While not a long book, there is a lot of depth in this, and I know I will be reading it again. I won't be soon forgetting it :)
So, so sweet. Soooo good!
There are many books I've read that I have a lot of high expectations, but this one I never really did. Most reviews I've seen are really good, yet on the flip side I considered the fact that I might not like it.
But at the first page I was hooked. The interaction of Allie, her mom, and Sam just made me emotionally attached from the beginning. Poor, poor Allie. The first part wasn't very long, but it adds a part of the story that is relevant for the rest of the book.
The second part was the best! At times Allie annoyed me, but I love that she was so real. One moment she would be so happy with someone, and then the next she shielded herself from the people she loved. Her change wasn't over night either...it was a gradual process which was realistic as well. The part at the end involving Beatrice had me tearing up even in the middle of an airport!
The setting was wonderful too! There wasn't a whole lot of WW2 topics besides the fact that some men were off fighting, but I liked that for a change. It was nice to see normal life play out during the war years.
Oh, the characters were lovely! They all had something unique about them. Beatrice was lovely and my heart ached for her. Then there was Charlie (that's Allie's friend)...and Russell ;) Allie's mother. She made me so sad.
And then SAM! At first he was too perfect and I didn't like that. I mean I did, but no guy is every perfect, so it put me off ;) Everything with his problems was brought up and suddenly he wasn't just this great guy, but a real guy. The only thing that bugged me about him was how little he even talked about Christianity. It didn't seem to be part of his life and he would have been even more amazing he had spoken of it more!
There was no pre-marital kissing, although there is a little touching between the love interests. I never felt uncomfortable. One other thing for the half star off was the use of euphemism throughout the book that I don't recommend for every day speech.
While not a long book, there is a lot of depth in this, and I know I will be reading it again. I won't be soon forgetting it :)
April 19, 2016
I have one word to describe this book.
Beautiful.
The poetic writing, the powerful redemptive story, the sweet romance….I think Rachel Coker’s Interrupted is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. I found Interrupted on sale at the Christian bookstore, and I’m glad I bought it!
Interrupted is about a teenage girl, Allie, whose mom dies of cancer. With both of her parents now gone, Allie has no other family to stay with. The teenager is adopted by a wealthy older woman. But her new guardian possesses a faith in God that Allie can’t accept–not when she blames Him for taking her mother away from her. While Allie struggles to adapt to her new life, World War Two breaks out in Europe. Allie can’t help but wonder if God exists, and if He does, why He would let good people die.
One of the most impressive things about Interrupted : the author. Rachel Coker wrote–and published–the novel as a teenage homeschool student. I was inspired that someone so young could write such a wonderful story of forgiveness, redemption, and faith.
I loved how Interrupted asks tough questions about God and His plans. Does He truly care about us? Does He even have a plan for our lives? Is He powerful enough to stop bad things from happening? And as a fan of historical novels, I found it interesting to see the events of World War Two through the eyes of a teenage girl living in the United States.
I would highly recommend Interrupted !
(Review originally posted on my blog)
Beautiful.
The poetic writing, the powerful redemptive story, the sweet romance….I think Rachel Coker’s Interrupted is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. I found Interrupted on sale at the Christian bookstore, and I’m glad I bought it!
Interrupted is about a teenage girl, Allie, whose mom dies of cancer. With both of her parents now gone, Allie has no other family to stay with. The teenager is adopted by a wealthy older woman. But her new guardian possesses a faith in God that Allie can’t accept–not when she blames Him for taking her mother away from her. While Allie struggles to adapt to her new life, World War Two breaks out in Europe. Allie can’t help but wonder if God exists, and if He does, why He would let good people die.
One of the most impressive things about Interrupted : the author. Rachel Coker wrote–and published–the novel as a teenage homeschool student. I was inspired that someone so young could write such a wonderful story of forgiveness, redemption, and faith.
I loved how Interrupted asks tough questions about God and His plans. Does He truly care about us? Does He even have a plan for our lives? Is He powerful enough to stop bad things from happening? And as a fan of historical novels, I found it interesting to see the events of World War Two through the eyes of a teenage girl living in the United States.
I would highly recommend Interrupted !
(Review originally posted on my blog)
March 15, 2012
I received "Interrupted: A life beyond words" as an ARC from the publisher in the mail a few hours ago, & YES I am finished with it already! It was THAT good.
First of all, I love the cover! A pretty young lady with a hand written poetry in the background really captures the essence of the book.
Secondly, I truly loved this book!
Interrupted is a wonderfully written novel about a girl named Alcyone, aka Allie, growing up in the WWII era. Her story is a truly heartbreaking one filled with the loss of her beloved mother early on in the book. Allie tries to keep her mother alive by writing letters to her in her journal and keeping her heart guarded from any affection and concern from others, keeping the motto she was taught "All people want to do is hurt you. All you can trust is where you come from and who you are."
I was thoroughly captivated by the story line and fell in love with all the characters in this story. If you love a well written story about loss, fears, love and hope that conquers all....this book is for you!
~Peggy @ bookabsorption.blogspot.com
First of all, I love the cover! A pretty young lady with a hand written poetry in the background really captures the essence of the book.
Secondly, I truly loved this book!
Interrupted is a wonderfully written novel about a girl named Alcyone, aka Allie, growing up in the WWII era. Her story is a truly heartbreaking one filled with the loss of her beloved mother early on in the book. Allie tries to keep her mother alive by writing letters to her in her journal and keeping her heart guarded from any affection and concern from others, keeping the motto she was taught "All people want to do is hurt you. All you can trust is where you come from and who you are."
I was thoroughly captivated by the story line and fell in love with all the characters in this story. If you love a well written story about loss, fears, love and hope that conquers all....this book is for you!
~Peggy @ bookabsorption.blogspot.com
Read
December 24, 2023Jumped ship at about 30%. Just couldn’t get into this one.
January 19, 2019
I just read this book for the fourth time. It was my first time reading the actual version, not my sisters ARC she got back before it was published.
This book was absolutely beautiful. The writing style was gorgeous and the characters perfect. This book gave a new perspective on how to deal with hurting people.
The only thing that bugged me in this book was the somewhat odd time jumps.
Overall, a beautiful read that I would recommend to anyone who wants a squeaky clean book about persistent love.
This book was absolutely beautiful. The writing style was gorgeous and the characters perfect. This book gave a new perspective on how to deal with hurting people.
The only thing that bugged me in this book was the somewhat odd time jumps.
Overall, a beautiful read that I would recommend to anyone who wants a squeaky clean book about persistent love.
March 18, 2018
Wow. Simply wow. Rachel Coker weaved so many truths in this story- dealing with bereavement, understanding and accepting those who love you, not hardening your heart towards others, the power of faith and many more. I definitely would recommend this to literally anyone I meet.
September 26, 2021
Love the portrayal of grief here. It's a clean and sweet book. Love the bit of romance here. The view of family was very well done. Miss Beatrice and her daughter were so good for Rachel. Her second meeting with Sam was fun and awkward. xD
March 28, 2023
3.85 stars
Okay I have a bit of an opposite opinion than the others that read this book do.
I read Coker's second book Chasing Jupiter before this one and I LOVED it!!
So it could've been that I had my hopes set high for this one (I mean it has a ton of 5 star reviews on here), but it just didn't strike me the same as Chasing Jupiter.
Even though I didn't necessarily love this book it was still a joy to read and I'm still gushing over how sweet the ending was. I'll be honest I love, love, loved Sam and he basically made the book for me.
What I loved:
🌠- The time period
🌠- The humor
🌠- The moments Coker had Allie described things with detail
🌠- The locations
🌠- The characters
🌠- Allie plays the piano
🌠- Sam, Charlie, and Irene <3
What I didn't love:
🌌- Allie didn't seem to act her age
🌌- The whole book felt veryyyyyyyyy rushed (the reason I docked a star)
🌌- Allie humiliated so many boys for being kind (not cool)
While I did love more things than I disliked, the things I disliked are rather big things to miss and I'm a bit disappointed. I know that many people love this book and I still do enjoy it, but it isn't my favorite. (It was also a bit predictable imo)
Content:
Language- None
Sexual- None
Violence- Talk of war (not described), playful hitting (I enjoy that bc it reminds me so much of my Aunt & Uncle when they were dating lol), a few scenes were someone accidentally got cut and they were bleeding (not described)
Drugs/Alcohol- None
TWs- Parents dying, siblings that died, & infertility battles (the grief of parents dying is rly the only one that can't be skipped over)
Okay I have a bit of an opposite opinion than the others that read this book do.
I read Coker's second book Chasing Jupiter before this one and I LOVED it!!
So it could've been that I had my hopes set high for this one (I mean it has a ton of 5 star reviews on here), but it just didn't strike me the same as Chasing Jupiter.
Even though I didn't necessarily love this book it was still a joy to read and I'm still gushing over how sweet the ending was. I'll be honest I love, love, loved Sam and he basically made the book for me.
What I loved:
🌠- The time period
🌠- The humor
🌠- The moments Coker had Allie described things with detail
🌠- The locations
🌠- The characters
🌠- Allie plays the piano
🌠- Sam, Charlie, and Irene <3
What I didn't love:
🌌- Allie didn't seem to act her age
🌌- The whole book felt veryyyyyyyyy rushed (the reason I docked a star)
🌌- Allie humiliated so many boys for being kind (not cool)
While I did love more things than I disliked, the things I disliked are rather big things to miss and I'm a bit disappointed. I know that many people love this book and I still do enjoy it, but it isn't my favorite. (It was also a bit predictable imo)
Content:
Language- None
Sexual- None
Violence- Talk of war (not described), playful hitting (I enjoy that bc it reminds me so much of my Aunt & Uncle when they were dating lol), a few scenes were someone accidentally got cut and they were bleeding (not described)
Drugs/Alcohol- None
TWs- Parents dying, siblings that died, & infertility battles (the grief of parents dying is rly the only one that can't be skipped over)
February 23, 2016
About this book:
“Can love really heal all things? If Sam Carroll hadn’t shown up, she might have been able to get to her mother in time. Instead, Allie Everly finds herself at a funeral, mourning the loss of her beloved mother. She is dealt another blow when, a few hours later, she is sent from Tennessee to Maine to become the daughter of Miss Beatrice Lovell, a prim woman with a faith Allie cannot accept. Poetry and letters written to her mother become the only things keeping Allie s heart from hardening completely. But then Sam arrives for the summer, and with him comes many confusing emotions, both toward him and the people around her. As World War II looms, Allie will be forced to decide whether hanging on to the past is worth losing her chance to be loved.”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Allie says many times that she does not believe in God, and her mother has told Allie that Christians are hypocrites (Later it’s said that Allie’s father said he was a Christian and when he left, her mom started hating Christians; “Mama hated Christianity, and she told me I should as well.”); When up on a hill, Allie writes that she feels closer to God and the heavens (Which she’s never told her mom as her mother does not believe in life-after-death); When her mother dies, Allie thinks “Are you in a better place, Mama? No, I don’t think you’re in any place at all. Christians are the crazy ones. That’s what you told me—there isn’t a God. There’s no one listening, no one who cares.”; Miss Beatrice tries to get Allie to go to church but Allie says “Mama says church is for the superstitious fools who don’t have enough guts to stand on their own two feet.” Miss Beatrice tries many times to witness to Allie and invites her to church; Allie wonders if her mother is a star now; Allie thinks back many times on what her mother said about Christians; Allie and Charlie talk a bit about God, Allie still believes that there’s no God and that it doesn’t matter Charlie says that you can’t be sure, not completely, “I guess we’ll never be sure until it’s over.” Allie then wonders if she could be wrong about God; Miss Beatrice does a long, detailed prayer which Allie overhears; Many Scriptures are quoted; Church going (semi-detailed); Bible reading; *Spoiler* Allie breaks down near the end and prays. She becomes a Christian after that. *End of Spoiler*; Many talks about God and finding comfort in His arms.
Negative Content- Minor Cussing including: an ‘oh my word’, an ‘oh my gosh’, a ‘shut up’, two ‘jerk’s, two forms of ‘drat’, four forms of ‘darn’, five ‘gosh’s, and 13 ‘stupid’s; Allie curses herself once (“cursing myself”); Allie wishes that a boy would get drafted the tells herself that that was a cruel thought; Mentions of the war.
Sexual Content- Allie calls a boy a “gangly, feminized type”; Irene says her & Daniel want a baby but can’t have one, when Allie asks “Why didn’t God give you a child?” Irene says “Sometimes God doesn’t give us the answer that we want. But that’s no excuse for being angry at him.” {In my opinion, the ‘H’ should have been capitalize}; *Spoiler* Irene says her birth mother was a cabaret dancer & her birth father was “a rich banker with a love for pretty women.” *End of Spoiler*; A bit of love/romance of the end, no kisses though!
-Alycone “Allie” Everly, age 14 (then 18)
First person P.O.V. of Allie
Part 1 is Set in 1939 and Part 2 is Set in ’43-‘45
247 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Three Stars
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Five Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
I liked “Interrupted”, it was really good! While I liked “Chasing Jupiter” better, I’m looking forward to reading Rachel Coker’s next book!
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
“Can love really heal all things? If Sam Carroll hadn’t shown up, she might have been able to get to her mother in time. Instead, Allie Everly finds herself at a funeral, mourning the loss of her beloved mother. She is dealt another blow when, a few hours later, she is sent from Tennessee to Maine to become the daughter of Miss Beatrice Lovell, a prim woman with a faith Allie cannot accept. Poetry and letters written to her mother become the only things keeping Allie s heart from hardening completely. But then Sam arrives for the summer, and with him comes many confusing emotions, both toward him and the people around her. As World War II looms, Allie will be forced to decide whether hanging on to the past is worth losing her chance to be loved.”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Allie says many times that she does not believe in God, and her mother has told Allie that Christians are hypocrites (Later it’s said that Allie’s father said he was a Christian and when he left, her mom started hating Christians; “Mama hated Christianity, and she told me I should as well.”); When up on a hill, Allie writes that she feels closer to God and the heavens (Which she’s never told her mom as her mother does not believe in life-after-death); When her mother dies, Allie thinks “Are you in a better place, Mama? No, I don’t think you’re in any place at all. Christians are the crazy ones. That’s what you told me—there isn’t a God. There’s no one listening, no one who cares.”; Miss Beatrice tries to get Allie to go to church but Allie says “Mama says church is for the superstitious fools who don’t have enough guts to stand on their own two feet.” Miss Beatrice tries many times to witness to Allie and invites her to church; Allie wonders if her mother is a star now; Allie thinks back many times on what her mother said about Christians; Allie and Charlie talk a bit about God, Allie still believes that there’s no God and that it doesn’t matter Charlie says that you can’t be sure, not completely, “I guess we’ll never be sure until it’s over.” Allie then wonders if she could be wrong about God; Miss Beatrice does a long, detailed prayer which Allie overhears; Many Scriptures are quoted; Church going (semi-detailed); Bible reading; *Spoiler* Allie breaks down near the end and prays. She becomes a Christian after that. *End of Spoiler*; Many talks about God and finding comfort in His arms.
Negative Content- Minor Cussing including: an ‘oh my word’, an ‘oh my gosh’, a ‘shut up’, two ‘jerk’s, two forms of ‘drat’, four forms of ‘darn’, five ‘gosh’s, and 13 ‘stupid’s; Allie curses herself once (“cursing myself”); Allie wishes that a boy would get drafted the tells herself that that was a cruel thought; Mentions of the war.
Sexual Content- Allie calls a boy a “gangly, feminized type”; Irene says her & Daniel want a baby but can’t have one, when Allie asks “Why didn’t God give you a child?” Irene says “Sometimes God doesn’t give us the answer that we want. But that’s no excuse for being angry at him.” {In my opinion, the ‘H’ should have been capitalize}; *Spoiler* Irene says her birth mother was a cabaret dancer & her birth father was “a rich banker with a love for pretty women.” *End of Spoiler*; A bit of love/romance of the end, no kisses though!
-Alycone “Allie” Everly, age 14 (then 18)
First person P.O.V. of Allie
Part 1 is Set in 1939 and Part 2 is Set in ’43-‘45
247 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Three Stars
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Five Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
I liked “Interrupted”, it was really good! While I liked “Chasing Jupiter” better, I’m looking forward to reading Rachel Coker’s next book!
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
March 2, 2012
This review was originally posted on Pretty In Fiction.
Allie is a troubled young girl. Taking care of a sick mother while she's dying, being sent away to Maine directly after the funeral. She had a right to be troubled. But she hangs on to her pain so strongly. She won't allow people in. Won't allow anyone to see her pain for what it is. She pushes everyone in her life away. It was frustrating to see how she hurt everyone who loved her away just by being distant.
I was not at all a fan of how coldly everyone treated Allie. Sure, they were nice to her and all, but no one ever spoke to the girl about how she felt. Her mother just died! And before that she'd been living with the stress of taking care of a sick woman. She was only fourteen, why did no one feel the need to console the poor little thing? It seemed like a huge oversight. The only person who even asked her about her mother was Irene at the end of the book. Talk about being years late with that one. No wonder Allie was so closed off to people.
I really enjoyed all of the characters in Interrupted. Irene was such a character. She was so spunky with her hot pink everything. Including a car. In the '40s! I didn't know they made anything hot pink in the '40s but hey! It totally worked for Irene. Sam was just adorable, following Allie around since they were kids. He was love-struck and you could totally tell. Charlie was just so cute I felt like I wanted to pinch her chubby little cheeks.
The fact that the story revolves around World War II intrigued me. Seeing these girls sitting at home, waiting to find out if they'd ever see their sweethearts or fiancées or husbands ever again was tragic. I've never read a book about what happened on the home front during the war, and most movies are about the war itself. This gave me a fresh perspective on what it means to be in a war. These women were put through so much. Most were either newly married or engaged, some were expecting children. And none knew if they'd ever see their significant others again. It really moved me to see a little bit of what they went through.
Interrupted does become a little bit religious towards the end, but I honestly can't say that it was a bad turn. Allie begins to find religion and starts to read the bible. In the story, it's what Allie needs to change who she is. Allie is basically learning about God and the bible for the first time since her mother didn't believe in God. I didn't feel it was so much preaching as it was Allie discovering a way to deal with her pain and fears. The only thing I can say is that when Allie finally does breakdown and ask God for help, she sure sounds a lot like a practiced Christian for someone who has supposedly hated Christians her entire life. That was my one little pet peeve. To me it just seemed to make Allie's character a little less sincere in her prayers.
All in all, I was very impressed with Coker's writing seeing how young she is. Despite being occasionally overly cheesy, Interrupted was a sweet and heart-warming novel. I found myself smiling through most of it and crying through the rest. And isn't that what makes a book great? I recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick read that will lift your spirits.
Allie is a troubled young girl. Taking care of a sick mother while she's dying, being sent away to Maine directly after the funeral. She had a right to be troubled. But she hangs on to her pain so strongly. She won't allow people in. Won't allow anyone to see her pain for what it is. She pushes everyone in her life away. It was frustrating to see how she hurt everyone who loved her away just by being distant.
I was not at all a fan of how coldly everyone treated Allie. Sure, they were nice to her and all, but no one ever spoke to the girl about how she felt. Her mother just died! And before that she'd been living with the stress of taking care of a sick woman. She was only fourteen, why did no one feel the need to console the poor little thing? It seemed like a huge oversight. The only person who even asked her about her mother was Irene at the end of the book. Talk about being years late with that one. No wonder Allie was so closed off to people.
I really enjoyed all of the characters in Interrupted. Irene was such a character. She was so spunky with her hot pink everything. Including a car. In the '40s! I didn't know they made anything hot pink in the '40s but hey! It totally worked for Irene. Sam was just adorable, following Allie around since they were kids. He was love-struck and you could totally tell. Charlie was just so cute I felt like I wanted to pinch her chubby little cheeks.
The fact that the story revolves around World War II intrigued me. Seeing these girls sitting at home, waiting to find out if they'd ever see their sweethearts or fiancées or husbands ever again was tragic. I've never read a book about what happened on the home front during the war, and most movies are about the war itself. This gave me a fresh perspective on what it means to be in a war. These women were put through so much. Most were either newly married or engaged, some were expecting children. And none knew if they'd ever see their significant others again. It really moved me to see a little bit of what they went through.
Interrupted does become a little bit religious towards the end, but I honestly can't say that it was a bad turn. Allie begins to find religion and starts to read the bible. In the story, it's what Allie needs to change who she is. Allie is basically learning about God and the bible for the first time since her mother didn't believe in God. I didn't feel it was so much preaching as it was Allie discovering a way to deal with her pain and fears. The only thing I can say is that when Allie finally does breakdown and ask God for help, she sure sounds a lot like a practiced Christian for someone who has supposedly hated Christians her entire life. That was my one little pet peeve. To me it just seemed to make Allie's character a little less sincere in her prayers.
All in all, I was very impressed with Coker's writing seeing how young she is. Despite being occasionally overly cheesy, Interrupted was a sweet and heart-warming novel. I found myself smiling through most of it and crying through the rest. And isn't that what makes a book great? I recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick read that will lift your spirits.
April 11, 2016
An Electronic Advanced Reader Copy was provided by the publisher for review. Quotes have been pulled from an ARC and may be subject to change.
Allie finds herself being the provider and care taker of her sick mother. She learned to grow up so fast and I can’t help but admire her strength and courage. She loved her mother with all her heart and when her mother does from her illness she is brought to live with Beatrice. An eccentric wealthy Christian woman whom Allie has no affinity to call her “mother.” As she grows up, she befriends Charlie, a tenacious Southern Belle who becomes her best friend. Things start to change for Allie when her childhood friend Sam stays for the summer. Her feelings grow and he doesn’t even realize she likes him.
Sam on the other hand seems to be quite in love with Allie ever since and I can’t help but smile at how sweet and kind he is. He was there for her when her mother died even when she disregarded his help, and when he finally befriends Allie when they’re older, it makes for a sweet love story that is sure to keep any romance lovers swooning. I love Sam’s character. He’s the best friend you’ve always wanted, and he grew up to be a wonderful young man you can rely on.
Here’s a character that has such a strong love for her mother that she can’t seem to move on. And you can feel we pain and sorrow. She has many talents that she seems to not be aware of, such as playing the piano, writing poverty, and tending to her beautiful rose garden. I feel like she’s been broken first by her father leaving her and then her mother getting sick. Then to be ripped away from the only life she has known drives her further into her world of books.
This book is a perfect blend of drama, mystery and romance. This isn’t my first Christian fiction read, but this is one that I quite enjoyed. I was also surprised to read that the author is a teen herself. Her writing is hauntingly beautiful and if you are looking for a different type of read, pick this one up. You won’t be disappointed.
Allie finds herself being the provider and care taker of her sick mother. She learned to grow up so fast and I can’t help but admire her strength and courage. She loved her mother with all her heart and when her mother does from her illness she is brought to live with Beatrice. An eccentric wealthy Christian woman whom Allie has no affinity to call her “mother.” As she grows up, she befriends Charlie, a tenacious Southern Belle who becomes her best friend. Things start to change for Allie when her childhood friend Sam stays for the summer. Her feelings grow and he doesn’t even realize she likes him.
Sam on the other hand seems to be quite in love with Allie ever since and I can’t help but smile at how sweet and kind he is. He was there for her when her mother died even when she disregarded his help, and when he finally befriends Allie when they’re older, it makes for a sweet love story that is sure to keep any romance lovers swooning. I love Sam’s character. He’s the best friend you’ve always wanted, and he grew up to be a wonderful young man you can rely on.
Here’s a character that has such a strong love for her mother that she can’t seem to move on. And you can feel we pain and sorrow. She has many talents that she seems to not be aware of, such as playing the piano, writing poverty, and tending to her beautiful rose garden. I feel like she’s been broken first by her father leaving her and then her mother getting sick. Then to be ripped away from the only life she has known drives her further into her world of books.
This book is a perfect blend of drama, mystery and romance. This isn’t my first Christian fiction read, but this is one that I quite enjoyed. I was also surprised to read that the author is a teen herself. Her writing is hauntingly beautiful and if you are looking for a different type of read, pick this one up. You won’t be disappointed.
April 27, 2012
What I Loved
I loved the emotions that leaped off the page. This book made me feel. Sorry for Allie. Sorrow for her loss. Hurt for how hurt she felt. Happy-but-almost-afraid-to-feel-happy when Sam made her laugh at the beach in that first sweet scene after they're reunited and she figures out where she knows him from.
I also loved that although, yes, author Rachel Coker is seventeen years old, her style is mature. Not just for her age, either. Mature, period, in a grab-my-heart-glue-my-hands-to-this-story way.
It's evident from the first line that Allie is a strong, capable heroine. But in order to protect herself, she bars her heart against the unforgiving world and the God her mother has told her not to believe in. Her journey toward faith in others, faith in God, and faith in love is an inspiring one. The Christian message is not preachy or pushy, but woven intricately within the storyline.
The ending left me with a sigh and a smile. Sam, oh, adorable, heart-warming Sam.
What I Didn't Like As Much
The book started slowly for me. It took me a few days to read the first seventy pages or so, but from the moment Sam reenters Allie's life, the story is off like a roller coaster as she experiences smiles and sadness, the best and the bitter.
Why I Recommend This Book
The struggles of not only Allie, but for the people who surround her are so...genuine. I truly loved this story. I would recommend it for anyone who has experienced as devastating a loss as Allie's, because the author writes of the deep emotions with great grace.
Historically-accurate, Interrupted put me in that WWII era (there was even a scene set on June 7th, my birthday, that opened my eyes into how it must have felt to live through the news trickling in about the invasion of Normandy). It also put me into Allie's heart as she hurts and heals. I actually wasn't aware before I read it that it was romantic, but it is, and in a lovely way.
I loved the emotions that leaped off the page. This book made me feel. Sorry for Allie. Sorrow for her loss. Hurt for how hurt she felt. Happy-but-almost-afraid-to-feel-happy when Sam made her laugh at the beach in that first sweet scene after they're reunited and she figures out where she knows him from.
I also loved that although, yes, author Rachel Coker is seventeen years old, her style is mature. Not just for her age, either. Mature, period, in a grab-my-heart-glue-my-hands-to-this-story way.
It's evident from the first line that Allie is a strong, capable heroine. But in order to protect herself, she bars her heart against the unforgiving world and the God her mother has told her not to believe in. Her journey toward faith in others, faith in God, and faith in love is an inspiring one. The Christian message is not preachy or pushy, but woven intricately within the storyline.
The ending left me with a sigh and a smile. Sam, oh, adorable, heart-warming Sam.
What I Didn't Like As Much
The book started slowly for me. It took me a few days to read the first seventy pages or so, but from the moment Sam reenters Allie's life, the story is off like a roller coaster as she experiences smiles and sadness, the best and the bitter.
Why I Recommend This Book
The struggles of not only Allie, but for the people who surround her are so...genuine. I truly loved this story. I would recommend it for anyone who has experienced as devastating a loss as Allie's, because the author writes of the deep emotions with great grace.
Historically-accurate, Interrupted put me in that WWII era (there was even a scene set on June 7th, my birthday, that opened my eyes into how it must have felt to live through the news trickling in about the invasion of Normandy). It also put me into Allie's heart as she hurts and heals. I actually wasn't aware before I read it that it was romantic, but it is, and in a lovely way.
January 19, 2022
This book was just so sweet! I totally need to re-read it in the future!
April 3, 2012
Recommend for: Those who like YA fiction, well written book seekers, those looking for a thought provoking read, clean fiction lovers
I was very excited about receiving this book to do a review on. This was my first ARC, my first review book, as well as my first traditionally published book by a homeschooler. This book had a lot to live up to, and it did not disappoint.
Rachel Coker has an engaging style of writing, one that lets you feel what the character feels. Even though Allie and I are nothing alike, Rachel made me feel what she was feeling. Not only that, but I also knew what Allie was like as a person. She was so real, her character was so deep, and she will go on my list of unforgettable characters.
I was challenged by this story in a way I hadn’t been since Sophia’s Heart. I was challenged to look at the people around me in a new light. Maybe the angry people I met were like Allie, dealing with a past that I could only begin to imagine. This book made me want to reach out to hurting people, and show those who might be the love of Christ. Just about any book that challenges you to do that, in my opinion, is worth reading.
What I loved:
Although this book deals with some hard subjects such as mental illness, a parent leaving, Christians not acting as they should, the death of a parent, etc.; it was not depressing. Rachel Coker manages to throw in humor where needed.
I loved the poetry at the beginning of each chapter. For someone who has a hard time sitting down and just reading poetry, this was a wonderful way to be exposed to a great poet.
What I didn’t like:
That Rachel doesn’t have another book out yet. After reading this book, I can’t wait to get my hands on her next work. However, I might have to wait a while. Look for my name toward the top of the pre-order list when she does come out with one.
I highly recommend this book as a thought provoking as well as an enjoyable read.
I received this book from Zondervan in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
I was very excited about receiving this book to do a review on. This was my first ARC, my first review book, as well as my first traditionally published book by a homeschooler. This book had a lot to live up to, and it did not disappoint.
Rachel Coker has an engaging style of writing, one that lets you feel what the character feels. Even though Allie and I are nothing alike, Rachel made me feel what she was feeling. Not only that, but I also knew what Allie was like as a person. She was so real, her character was so deep, and she will go on my list of unforgettable characters.
I was challenged by this story in a way I hadn’t been since Sophia’s Heart. I was challenged to look at the people around me in a new light. Maybe the angry people I met were like Allie, dealing with a past that I could only begin to imagine. This book made me want to reach out to hurting people, and show those who might be the love of Christ. Just about any book that challenges you to do that, in my opinion, is worth reading.
What I loved:
Although this book deals with some hard subjects such as mental illness, a parent leaving, Christians not acting as they should, the death of a parent, etc.; it was not depressing. Rachel Coker manages to throw in humor where needed.
I loved the poetry at the beginning of each chapter. For someone who has a hard time sitting down and just reading poetry, this was a wonderful way to be exposed to a great poet.
What I didn’t like:
That Rachel doesn’t have another book out yet. After reading this book, I can’t wait to get my hands on her next work. However, I might have to wait a while. Look for my name toward the top of the pre-order list when she does come out with one.
I highly recommend this book as a thought provoking as well as an enjoyable read.
I received this book from Zondervan in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
March 27, 2021
3.5 Stars
I have mixed feelings about this book. A lot of them.
It wasn't bad, but it wasn't awesome. I had a really hard time getting attached at the start, but, soon, I was hooked. I ended up staying up too late to finish it.
Allie was a very refreshing lead character. As in, it was nice to have an MC that got my blood pressure up because they made bad decisions. Maybe that sounds mixed up. 😂 But, really - I liked the fact that Allie was so far from perfect, and I don't even particularly like her like I like a lot of characters. But she was a really good character. (Confused yet?)
The romance had some amazing build up. It did fall a little flat for me, since it moved sooooo fast towards the end of the book. But the shoes thing (you'll know what I mean if you read it) was awesome. 😂
The characters were just all really good and vivid and easy to get to know.
And that dialogue. 🤣 Sam and Allie had some amazing convos.
I loved the setting - WWII, yet on the home front. And even showing opposing opinions about the war itself!
This book was really clean, and a sweet, feel-good read. If you want a quick book to read and smile about and have your heart melted over, I would recommend this one! 💙💙
I have mixed feelings about this book. A lot of them.
It wasn't bad, but it wasn't awesome. I had a really hard time getting attached at the start, but, soon, I was hooked. I ended up staying up too late to finish it.
Allie was a very refreshing lead character. As in, it was nice to have an MC that got my blood pressure up because they made bad decisions. Maybe that sounds mixed up. 😂 But, really - I liked the fact that Allie was so far from perfect, and I don't even particularly like her like I like a lot of characters. But she was a really good character. (Confused yet?)
The romance had some amazing build up. It did fall a little flat for me, since it moved sooooo fast towards the end of the book. But the shoes thing (you'll know what I mean if you read it) was awesome. 😂
The characters were just all really good and vivid and easy to get to know.
And that dialogue. 🤣 Sam and Allie had some amazing convos.
I loved the setting - WWII, yet on the home front. And even showing opposing opinions about the war itself!
This book was really clean, and a sweet, feel-good read. If you want a quick book to read and smile about and have your heart melted over, I would recommend this one! 💙💙
February 8, 2017
Beautiful. That's how I would describe this book.
The Good
Basically I couldn't stay away, the characters were cool, the plot was nice, the time period was perfect and somehow Rachel managed to pull off time jumps that didn't seem choppy. The writing was so lovely and I loved how she put a Emily Dickinson poem at the beginning of every chapter! (And if I were rating this on cover it would get a 10000%) I know you're not really supposed to like her mom but I did a bit, mainly when she talked about fairies because it made me think of my childhood full of make believe and fairy talk!
The Bad
It was, in some parts, just a bit slow, but I can't tell if it was the book getting boring or me just getting tired of sitting (That happens a lot XD) The main character was a tad annoying at some points but other than that I have no complaints.
The Ugly
Nada. 100% clean!
The Good
Basically I couldn't stay away, the characters were cool, the plot was nice, the time period was perfect and somehow Rachel managed to pull off time jumps that didn't seem choppy. The writing was so lovely and I loved how she put a Emily Dickinson poem at the beginning of every chapter! (And if I were rating this on cover it would get a 10000%) I know you're not really supposed to like her mom but I did a bit, mainly when she talked about fairies because it made me think of my childhood full of make believe and fairy talk!
The Bad
It was, in some parts, just a bit slow, but I can't tell if it was the book getting boring or me just getting tired of sitting (That happens a lot XD) The main character was a tad annoying at some points but other than that I have no complaints.
The Ugly
Nada. 100% clean!
November 23, 2019
4.5 stars
3 words: I love Sam.
3 words: I love Sam.
June 29, 2017
My thoughts: Content-wise, it was completely clean. I just didn't like the main character, and found the writing slightly irritating to be honest. I felt like too much happened too fast, and there wasn't enough of a visible character change. It felt abrupt. So...not really a fan of this one. *dodges tomatoes*
February 3, 2019
Beautiful! (Five stars) RTC
June 14, 2020
This book was just incredible. So much depth and emotion and raw realness. The characters were all so loveable and unique, and I loved seeing Allie’s arc. Definitely recommend this beautiful story!
January 18, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! I can't help but give it five stars simply because it was sweet, and fun, and beautiful.
The plot itself is fairly simple, centered around World War 2 but not overly focused on the war. The book is definitely more character-driven, and the characters are so well-developed! Each one has depth. Even the giggling, flippant friend and the awkward, unwanted suitor are given sympathetic traits and aren't shallow, even though they easily could be.
The romance is so sweet- the banter between Rachel and Sam is absolutely adorable and I could read it all day! The dialogue in the book overall is great, but especially the dialogue between them.
Rachel Coker is such a talented writer! For such a young writer, the book is polished and smooth, not just good plot and characters but high-quality writing as well. It makes it all the more enjoyable to read. I knew from the very first page that it was going to be a good book.
Best of all, since it's Christian fiction, it's completely clean! Without being overly preachy, it portrays Christianity so well and is a really good story with absolutely no content at all. I think anyone from ages about 9-10 on could read it and enjoy it.
The plot itself is fairly simple, centered around World War 2 but not overly focused on the war. The book is definitely more character-driven, and the characters are so well-developed! Each one has depth. Even the giggling, flippant friend and the awkward, unwanted suitor are given sympathetic traits and aren't shallow, even though they easily could be.
The romance is so sweet- the banter between Rachel and Sam is absolutely adorable and I could read it all day! The dialogue in the book overall is great, but especially the dialogue between them.
Rachel Coker is such a talented writer! For such a young writer, the book is polished and smooth, not just good plot and characters but high-quality writing as well. It makes it all the more enjoyable to read. I knew from the very first page that it was going to be a good book.
Best of all, since it's Christian fiction, it's completely clean! Without being overly preachy, it portrays Christianity so well and is a really good story with absolutely no content at all. I think anyone from ages about 9-10 on could read it and enjoy it.
September 29, 2018
My Rating: 5 Stars
My Review
Setting:
The beginning of the story (1939) is set in the rolling hills of Tennessee, but the majority of the story (1943-'45) is set in Maine. I loved the different descriptions of the beautiful coast!
Characters:
Alcyone 'Allie' (Everly? Lovell? Carroll?) is our...interesting MC. I enjoyed her character arc; it was refreshing and something I hadn't particularly read before. Then we have Sam Carroll. Oh my goodness, this boy! This is one of the sweetest, most kind-hearted souls you will ever find in YA!
Oh, and Beatrice, Irene, and Charlie are all pretty swell, too! ;)
Plot:
This pot was very well-balanced. The romance was delightful, but not overwhelming, and in this story it gives the reader a chance to explore Allie's relationships not only romantically, but with friends and family as well, which enforced the character arc. I would have liked to see her more interested in becoming a Christian earlier in the book so that when she did bring God into her life, it didn't feel so forced and rushed.
Content:
Mentions of WWII.
No matter how many times I re-read this, I still squeal over the romance and the idyllic small town 1940's setting! I highly recommend this lovely story!
My Review
Setting:
The beginning of the story (1939) is set in the rolling hills of Tennessee, but the majority of the story (1943-'45) is set in Maine. I loved the different descriptions of the beautiful coast!
Characters:
Alcyone 'Allie' (Everly? Lovell? Carroll?) is our...interesting MC. I enjoyed her character arc; it was refreshing and something I hadn't particularly read before. Then we have Sam Carroll. Oh my goodness, this boy! This is one of the sweetest, most kind-hearted souls you will ever find in YA!
Oh, and Beatrice, Irene, and Charlie are all pretty swell, too! ;)
Plot:
This pot was very well-balanced. The romance was delightful, but not overwhelming, and in this story it gives the reader a chance to explore Allie's relationships not only romantically, but with friends and family as well, which enforced the character arc. I would have liked to see her more interested in becoming a Christian earlier in the book so that when she did bring God into her life, it didn't feel so forced and rushed.
Content:
Mentions of WWII.
No matter how many times I re-read this, I still squeal over the romance and the idyllic small town 1940's setting! I highly recommend this lovely story!
September 12, 2015
I've been wanting to read this book for a while, but it always seems to be checked out when I make my way to the library. ;)
It was an amazing book! I loved all the characters, although there were a few times I wanted to teach Allie a lesson. Sam was. . .indescribable! Did I mention that I often fall in love with book characters? :D He was so sweet and caring and always there for Allie even when she couldn't see it.
And of course the setting was amazing. Set in the 1900s before and during WWII. . .nothing can beat that! All in all it was an amazing book! You author does an amazing job making you feel the emotions of the story. I really, REALLY enjoyed it!
It was an amazing book! I loved all the characters, although there were a few times I wanted to teach Allie a lesson. Sam was. . .indescribable! Did I mention that I often fall in love with book characters? :D He was so sweet and caring and always there for Allie even when she couldn't see it.
And of course the setting was amazing. Set in the 1900s before and during WWII. . .nothing can beat that! All in all it was an amazing book! You author does an amazing job making you feel the emotions of the story. I really, REALLY enjoyed it!
June 24, 2012
WOW! This book was GOOD! I cannot believe she was only fourteen when she wrote this-it's amazing! Check out my full review here: http://writingchristiannovels.blogspo...
October 10, 2018
Incredible. Review to come...
July 6, 2019
Interrupted by Rachel Coker is a sweet novel. It is set durring WWII, but focuses on a young girl at home America and how she evolves into a young woman after losing her mother. The idea of the book is very sweet and is encouraging to those who follow the Christian faith. I enjoyed reading the story, but found that development between Allie and Sam later in the the story was lacking. I felt that it needed more development. I think her moment of enlightenment kind of comes out of the blue too. Since this is historical fiction, some details could have been researched more and could have included more details of the time period.
From what I understand Rachel was still a homeschool student when she wrote this book, so I'm impressed with the novel she wrote. I think she really catches the internal dialogue a teen would have. I enjoyed it and found her internal dialogue relatable and liked that it helped me really get to know Allie.
From what I understand Rachel was still a homeschool student when she wrote this book, so I'm impressed with the novel she wrote. I think she really catches the internal dialogue a teen would have. I enjoyed it and found her internal dialogue relatable and liked that it helped me really get to know Allie.
April 4, 2018
Whoa- what an incredibly sweet book. It made me cry a couple of times, and I ended up liking it a lot more than I thought I would (though to be honest I generally hate books that make me cry xP).
March 14, 2012
I came across this book whilst browsing the catalogue on Net Galley. It sounded unlike anything I had read before so I sent the publisher my request for it. Let me tell you, I am very glad I did. This story was indeed unlike anything I have read previously. It stands apart from the normal YA books that I read.
I knew going into this book that the author Rachel Coker is only young, 15 years old I believe. But what I didn't expect was how maturely and beautifully a woman so young could write. I was pleasantly taken by surprise by that fact.
This story took me back to a time before I was born. A time I have only been able to learn about during history lessons at school and by watching documentaries on the television. I can honestly say that I am glad not to have been born before or during the war. It must have been one of the hardest things to live through. I only experienced how it must have felt whilst reading this book and that alone was enough for me. It made me realise how lucky I am to have what I have and live the life that I do.
At the tender age of just fourteen, Allie feels responsible for everything because her mother has brain cancer and forgets things, places and people. It's a harsh way for Allie to have to live her life. She has had to grow up fast due to the decline in her mothers health.
Sam is her best friend. He's followed her round since childhood. He's always there, even when she wishes he wasn't.
It's during one of Sam's visits that her mother takes a turn for the worse. So Allie harshly blames him for the fact that she passes away. When I read this, I was sad for Sam because I could see that it wasn't his fault and I was angry at Allie for blaming him and pushing him away when all he wanted to do was be a good friend and be there for her. It honestly made a lump form in my throat.
Due to Allie's mother's passing, she must move away. A lady from an adoption agency turns up and tells her to pack a bag because she must leave. This hurts Allie as her mother or Mama as she calls her, has always been the only family she has known. Her father walked out when she was young and so now to have to move away from her home and her life, makes Allie sad and depressed. Who can blame her really? She's had a hard enough start to her life without having to go and start afresh somewhere else.
Now Allie lives with Miss Beatrice, her adopted mother. She is introduced to Irene, Miss Beatrice's daughter and immediately feels like an outsider. This woman isn't her mother, Irene isn't her sister, this isn't her life. But it is and she will have to get used to it. There is nothing to be done to bring her mother back and there is no escaping the fact that she needs to start over.
I felt a lot of empathy for Allie. I relate to how hard her life must have been. I know I haven't been through what she has but it's easy to imagine whilst reading that you are actually Allie and her emotions are yours. There's ups, there's downs, there's times you just want to grab her and shake her. You want to tell her to wake up and be nicer to Beatrice and others around her. Allie could be such a marvellous young lady and indeed in her heart she is. She just isn't able to see things clearly. Her mother always told her that religion was for superstitious fools. So Allie doesn't even have God to turn to in her times of need. She really feels all alone. But she wouldn't be if only she were more open to people. If she let people into her life, her heart, she would see that life is what you make it. If you make it hard, it's hard. If you make it happy, it's happy.
This is a beautiful story about a young girl who hasn't had the easiest of starts to her life and now must carve out a new niche for herself in this new life. She has a hardness to her that is easily imaginable because of her past. But will she ever mellow? Will she settle down and get used to the life before her? Or will she always rebel against it?
I loved this book from the moment I picked it up. I got easily carried away into this life of a teenager during the war. I always enjoy a book when the author can put me inside the head of the main character. This was no exception. I honestly look forward to more novels from Rachel Coker. She is a brilliant budding young author and I can only imagine that as her career progresses, she will become a best-selling author. She certainly has the makings of one.
Thank you to Rachel for creating such an extraordinary novel. Thank you also to Zondervan and Net Galley for providing me with this galley.
I knew going into this book that the author Rachel Coker is only young, 15 years old I believe. But what I didn't expect was how maturely and beautifully a woman so young could write. I was pleasantly taken by surprise by that fact.
This story took me back to a time before I was born. A time I have only been able to learn about during history lessons at school and by watching documentaries on the television. I can honestly say that I am glad not to have been born before or during the war. It must have been one of the hardest things to live through. I only experienced how it must have felt whilst reading this book and that alone was enough for me. It made me realise how lucky I am to have what I have and live the life that I do.
At the tender age of just fourteen, Allie feels responsible for everything because her mother has brain cancer and forgets things, places and people. It's a harsh way for Allie to have to live her life. She has had to grow up fast due to the decline in her mothers health.
Sam is her best friend. He's followed her round since childhood. He's always there, even when she wishes he wasn't.
It's during one of Sam's visits that her mother takes a turn for the worse. So Allie harshly blames him for the fact that she passes away. When I read this, I was sad for Sam because I could see that it wasn't his fault and I was angry at Allie for blaming him and pushing him away when all he wanted to do was be a good friend and be there for her. It honestly made a lump form in my throat.
Due to Allie's mother's passing, she must move away. A lady from an adoption agency turns up and tells her to pack a bag because she must leave. This hurts Allie as her mother or Mama as she calls her, has always been the only family she has known. Her father walked out when she was young and so now to have to move away from her home and her life, makes Allie sad and depressed. Who can blame her really? She's had a hard enough start to her life without having to go and start afresh somewhere else.
Now Allie lives with Miss Beatrice, her adopted mother. She is introduced to Irene, Miss Beatrice's daughter and immediately feels like an outsider. This woman isn't her mother, Irene isn't her sister, this isn't her life. But it is and she will have to get used to it. There is nothing to be done to bring her mother back and there is no escaping the fact that she needs to start over.
I felt a lot of empathy for Allie. I relate to how hard her life must have been. I know I haven't been through what she has but it's easy to imagine whilst reading that you are actually Allie and her emotions are yours. There's ups, there's downs, there's times you just want to grab her and shake her. You want to tell her to wake up and be nicer to Beatrice and others around her. Allie could be such a marvellous young lady and indeed in her heart she is. She just isn't able to see things clearly. Her mother always told her that religion was for superstitious fools. So Allie doesn't even have God to turn to in her times of need. She really feels all alone. But she wouldn't be if only she were more open to people. If she let people into her life, her heart, she would see that life is what you make it. If you make it hard, it's hard. If you make it happy, it's happy.
This is a beautiful story about a young girl who hasn't had the easiest of starts to her life and now must carve out a new niche for herself in this new life. She has a hardness to her that is easily imaginable because of her past. But will she ever mellow? Will she settle down and get used to the life before her? Or will she always rebel against it?
I loved this book from the moment I picked it up. I got easily carried away into this life of a teenager during the war. I always enjoy a book when the author can put me inside the head of the main character. This was no exception. I honestly look forward to more novels from Rachel Coker. She is a brilliant budding young author and I can only imagine that as her career progresses, she will become a best-selling author. She certainly has the makings of one.
Thank you to Rachel for creating such an extraordinary novel. Thank you also to Zondervan and Net Galley for providing me with this galley.
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