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Saving Jason
Jason Barnes is a free spirit. Underneath that fun-loving surface lurks a severe case of PTSD, his personal souvenir from the war on terror. After his young marriage breaks up, he bounces from girlfriend to girlfriend, never allowing himself to get too close, all while maintaining a friendship with his ex-wife, Samantha Colton. Everything changes when he meets Abby Jacobsen, a smart and sassy artist - but with love comes jealousy, and Abby doesn’t stand for Jason’s cozy friendship with Samantha. Two hours after a heated argument causes Jason to storm out of their apartment, Abby receives a phone call from the intensive care unit of a New Hampshire hospital. The hospital walls close in on Abby and Samantha as they are forced to make tough decisions while trying hard not to kill each other. The two form a rare bond when Emma Jane, Jason’s mom, arrives on the scene. Three weeks after Jason’s accident, Abby is left alone and hovering over a handful of positive pregnancy tests. During her pregnancy, Abby works with Samantha to dig up clues of Jason’s past. As the truth is discovered, their worlds are irreversibly changed. An emotionally-moving look at PTSD and the intersection of three lives, Saving Jason is a riveting glimpse into unexpected friendships and the ripples we leave without our knowledge.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2014
108 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
Kate Anslinger
19 books211 followersKate is the author of the Grace McKenna Mystery series and The Town Series. She’s also penned several standalone novels and co-authored a nonfiction book or two. In addition to her life as a novelist, Kate is a ghostwriter, book coach, and a veteran of the United States Air Force. Her debut novel Saving Jason, touches upon the struggles of PTSD, a topic that is near and dear to her heart. Kate lives on the North Shore of Boston with her husband, two daughters and golden retriever pup.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
November 13, 2014
Saving Jason by E. J Hanagan is a 2014 Booktrope publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This novel is incredibly well written and so emotional. I confess I cried nearly all the way through it. At the center of our story is Jason, a young man who returned home from his stint in the military with PTSD. This issue tore apart his marriage to Samantha. However, Jason and Samantha still love one another deeply and remain very close friends, almost like siblings.
Samantha moved forward with her life, getting married to a wonderful guy named Alex. But, the bottom drops out of her world when Jason's current girlfriend text her in the middle of the night explaining that Jason was in an accident and may not pull through.
Abby was so jealous of Samantha, she and Jason had argued about her right before his accident. Now, Abby has to contend with Samantha's presence at the hospital too.
Factor in Jason's self absorbed, money and man hungry mom and the combination was almost lethal. While Jason lies in a coma, Abby and Samantha slowly begin to bond and soon become the best of friends.
While the situation the book is built upon is bleak, depressing, and sad, the story becomes something truly inspiring as people who were thrown a curve ball learn to cope and deal with a senseless tragedy. Not everyone in the story is nice, but most of the characters are so human and real it was like I was living through the experience right along with them. The author wisely chooses to put the story into alternate first person narratives and this works beautifully. Samantha's memories of her life with Jason when they were married were especially poignant.
“We Loved to hate each other and hated to love each other. It was as if we sat in the cart of a creaky, old roller coaster together from ages twenty to twenty-five- a roller coaster that dipped and twisted at such sharp angles that we had to grasp on to one another just to make it through the painful, gut-wrenching ride.”
Abby's character grows in leaps and bounds as she goes through some incredible life changes and suffers over Jason's long term outlook. She goes from being oversensitive, a bit immature, and suffering through personal insecurities, to being a strong, resilient young woman, with an determination to work hard to make the best of the cards she has been dealt.
There are many twist and turns in the story as those affected by Jason, his life, his choices, and by those who were on the fringes of his life, all cope in different ways, and cope together. Life long bonds were forged and so many lives were touched by this young man. The story left me feeling nearly weak with all those intense emotions swirling around but man, what a story! A really deep tale I can't even seem to classify within a set genre or explain it's affect on me, but I am glad I found this book and really enjoyed reading something so well written and with such depth and meaning. Overall 5 stars.
This novel is incredibly well written and so emotional. I confess I cried nearly all the way through it. At the center of our story is Jason, a young man who returned home from his stint in the military with PTSD. This issue tore apart his marriage to Samantha. However, Jason and Samantha still love one another deeply and remain very close friends, almost like siblings.
Samantha moved forward with her life, getting married to a wonderful guy named Alex. But, the bottom drops out of her world when Jason's current girlfriend text her in the middle of the night explaining that Jason was in an accident and may not pull through.
Abby was so jealous of Samantha, she and Jason had argued about her right before his accident. Now, Abby has to contend with Samantha's presence at the hospital too.
Factor in Jason's self absorbed, money and man hungry mom and the combination was almost lethal. While Jason lies in a coma, Abby and Samantha slowly begin to bond and soon become the best of friends.
While the situation the book is built upon is bleak, depressing, and sad, the story becomes something truly inspiring as people who were thrown a curve ball learn to cope and deal with a senseless tragedy. Not everyone in the story is nice, but most of the characters are so human and real it was like I was living through the experience right along with them. The author wisely chooses to put the story into alternate first person narratives and this works beautifully. Samantha's memories of her life with Jason when they were married were especially poignant.
“We Loved to hate each other and hated to love each other. It was as if we sat in the cart of a creaky, old roller coaster together from ages twenty to twenty-five- a roller coaster that dipped and twisted at such sharp angles that we had to grasp on to one another just to make it through the painful, gut-wrenching ride.”
Abby's character grows in leaps and bounds as she goes through some incredible life changes and suffers over Jason's long term outlook. She goes from being oversensitive, a bit immature, and suffering through personal insecurities, to being a strong, resilient young woman, with an determination to work hard to make the best of the cards she has been dealt.
There are many twist and turns in the story as those affected by Jason, his life, his choices, and by those who were on the fringes of his life, all cope in different ways, and cope together. Life long bonds were forged and so many lives were touched by this young man. The story left me feeling nearly weak with all those intense emotions swirling around but man, what a story! A really deep tale I can't even seem to classify within a set genre or explain it's affect on me, but I am glad I found this book and really enjoyed reading something so well written and with such depth and meaning. Overall 5 stars.
November 18, 2014
In her debut novel, Saving Jason, author EJ Hanagan weaves an emotional story about a military vet who suffers from PTSD, and the two women in his life who come together and form an unlikely bond of friendship when he suffers a serious injury.
Military veteran Jason Barnes' returns home with a severe case of PTSD that ultimately wrecks his marriage. Underneath the free-spirit exterior is a man who silently suffers from the anguish and pain from his front line experience abroad. Jason storms out of his apartment after a heated exchange with his girlfriend Abby over his continued friendship with ex-wife Samantha Colton, only to get into an accident with serious injuries that leaves him in a coma. Jason's injuries force the two women in his life to come together and form an unlikely bond that will change their lives forever.
Told in the alternating first person narrative by ex-wife Samantha Colton and current girlfriend Abby Jacobsen, the reader is easily drawn into Jason's story. This is a riveting story of how three lives are unexpectedly interwoven through a tragic condition that affects each of them in different ways, and how they learn to pull together and cope with it. While Samantha and Abby are very different women, they have one thing in common, their shared love for Jason. It is this shared love for Jason that brings them together, and their relationship ultimately evolves into an unlikely and lovely friendship.
Author EJ Hanagan calls upon her past personal military experience and her tireless passion to raise awareness for military veterans with PTSD, to weave a breathtakingly inspirational and realistic story that pulls at the heart strings and stirs the soul. The author provides the reader with a thoughtful and eye-opening insight into the tragic and complex dynamics of PTSD, and the havoc that it causes to the person afflicted, as well as how this disorder affects their relationships with their loved ones.
Saving Jason is a touching and poignant story that takes the reader on a haunting journey where they will experience the full gamut of emotions. This is an amazing story that reads very much like a Nicholas Sparks novel, I could easily see it being made into a Lifetime or Hallmark Channel tv movie.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Goddess Fish Promotions.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Military veteran Jason Barnes' returns home with a severe case of PTSD that ultimately wrecks his marriage. Underneath the free-spirit exterior is a man who silently suffers from the anguish and pain from his front line experience abroad. Jason storms out of his apartment after a heated exchange with his girlfriend Abby over his continued friendship with ex-wife Samantha Colton, only to get into an accident with serious injuries that leaves him in a coma. Jason's injuries force the two women in his life to come together and form an unlikely bond that will change their lives forever.
Told in the alternating first person narrative by ex-wife Samantha Colton and current girlfriend Abby Jacobsen, the reader is easily drawn into Jason's story. This is a riveting story of how three lives are unexpectedly interwoven through a tragic condition that affects each of them in different ways, and how they learn to pull together and cope with it. While Samantha and Abby are very different women, they have one thing in common, their shared love for Jason. It is this shared love for Jason that brings them together, and their relationship ultimately evolves into an unlikely and lovely friendship.
Author EJ Hanagan calls upon her past personal military experience and her tireless passion to raise awareness for military veterans with PTSD, to weave a breathtakingly inspirational and realistic story that pulls at the heart strings and stirs the soul. The author provides the reader with a thoughtful and eye-opening insight into the tragic and complex dynamics of PTSD, and the havoc that it causes to the person afflicted, as well as how this disorder affects their relationships with their loved ones.
Saving Jason is a touching and poignant story that takes the reader on a haunting journey where they will experience the full gamut of emotions. This is an amazing story that reads very much like a Nicholas Sparks novel, I could easily see it being made into a Lifetime or Hallmark Channel tv movie.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Goddess Fish Promotions.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
May 4, 2016
Saving Jason promised to be “an emotionally-moving look at PTSD”, and had a 4.17-star rating on Goodreads and a 4.8-star rating on Amazon. It was a story about a war veteran’s best friend/ex-wife and his current love interest, and the relationship that develops between them following his life-threatening accident.
I struggled through 17% and then gave up. The next day, I logged on to post a on3-star review. After skimming the other reviews, that said things like ‘well written’ and ‘character development’, I decided to give it another go. I finished it, but thought it really needed some severe editing.
First, I really missed having scene breaks. The chapters were divided up by the two POVs of the ex-wife and the girlfriend. That was it. No other division. No extra spacing or fancy curlicues. At one point, the author even changed scenes in mid-paragraph.
Hanagan’s descriptive writing was nice, however, it seemed when she had a several ways to say something, instead of picking the best, she used them all. Maybe that’s her personal style. It didn’t work for me. In a few places, she used the exact same words over a sentence or two later.
There were a number of spelling and grammar errors that should have been easily caught, as well.
As for character development, there was no real depth to the women. I didn’t dislike the women, but really didn’t feel anything for them except sympathy for their situation.
Most of all, it was a whole book of back-story.. What happens from day one (although, it takes place over a seven or eight-month period) to the end is about two chapters worth, if that. It’s all about their memories. I'd have enjoyed seeing a little more develop in the present day story—more showing and less telling. A young pregnant woman whose boyfriend is in a coma has a lot of area to explore.
Giving it a second chance did cause me to raise my rating to a two-star. I didn’t hate the book. I just didn’t like it. With more present-day story development and some severe editing, this could be a really good book. It just wasn’t ready to market, in my opinion.
I struggled through 17% and then gave up. The next day, I logged on to post a on3-star review. After skimming the other reviews, that said things like ‘well written’ and ‘character development’, I decided to give it another go. I finished it, but thought it really needed some severe editing.
First, I really missed having scene breaks. The chapters were divided up by the two POVs of the ex-wife and the girlfriend. That was it. No other division. No extra spacing or fancy curlicues. At one point, the author even changed scenes in mid-paragraph.
Hanagan’s descriptive writing was nice, however, it seemed when she had a several ways to say something, instead of picking the best, she used them all. Maybe that’s her personal style. It didn’t work for me. In a few places, she used the exact same words over a sentence or two later.
There were a number of spelling and grammar errors that should have been easily caught, as well.
As for character development, there was no real depth to the women. I didn’t dislike the women, but really didn’t feel anything for them except sympathy for their situation.
Most of all, it was a whole book of back-story.. What happens from day one (although, it takes place over a seven or eight-month period) to the end is about two chapters worth, if that. It’s all about their memories. I'd have enjoyed seeing a little more develop in the present day story—more showing and less telling. A young pregnant woman whose boyfriend is in a coma has a lot of area to explore.
Giving it a second chance did cause me to raise my rating to a two-star. I didn’t hate the book. I just didn’t like it. With more present-day story development and some severe editing, this could be a really good book. It just wasn’t ready to market, in my opinion.
December 14, 2014
This book is full of emotion and love for Jason. I thought the story was well written, the characters well developed and I thought the writer hit the mark with the PTSD Jason suffers, the author sheds light on real issues, loss and heartache in dealing with PTSD and thought it was well captured what Jason is going through and those around him. Samantha and Jason loved each other once as a husband and wife now just really good friends and Samantha although is married a second time to a great man still wants Jason to rely on her and be there for him when he needs her. I love that they still have that but felt sometimes Samantha was a little over bearing when it came to certain issues that Abby was trying to deal with. I thought Abby although she should stay far away from Jason's useless mother..lol.. thought Abby was genuine she cared and wanted it to work with Jason but her jealousy sometimes took over, but she absolutely loves him. I thought these two women were a positive in their own ways in Jason's life and learned to deal with each and form a bond that then turned to much more, loved that. The only complaint is it was a little drawn out in parts at the hospital with the Abby looking back and Samantha reminiscing about her past with Jason and with her father, who I loved how he still loves Jason too. I thought the story was very loving and emotional and a great read. Bottom line Jason is a hero, my heart is broken.. 4-4.5 stars review by Nanee at upallnightreadallday.blogspot.com
December 8, 2015
I must be completely honest, I wasn't sure whether to give this book 3 stars or 4 - so I'm settling for 3 and a half. Don't misunderstand me, I really enjoyed reading 'Saving Jason' by E.J. Hannigan, it was a lovely, very poignant story with some fascinating characters and a study in 'how to break up amicably,' however, it didn't grab quite as I would have expected it to.
The Jason of the story actually doesn't speak for himself throughout as he is resident at hospital in a deep coma following a fall during a climbing accident, although we do learn a lot about him. He experiences life at full pelt, he feels deeply and he is seriously emotionally scarred and suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as a result of events experienced as a marine in the Gulf War.
Samantha is Jason's ex-wife, and his best friend - now married to Alex, the man she calls the love of her life; Abby is Jason's current partner, plagued by guilt, and left to pick up the broken pieces of her life in the days following Jason's accident. Samantha and Abby are thrown together in this poignant story of love in all its many forms, and learn to get along, as they each tell their own version of their own life with Jason.
Emma-Jane, Jason's mother, adds a touch of sugar-coated menace to the tale and is so very powerfully imagined that I felt I could almost reach out and touch her - probably with a strong left hook!
I will definitely be reaching for more books by E.J. Hannigan. Thank you to the publishers via Netgalley for the opportunity to read, rate and review 'Saving Jason.'
The Jason of the story actually doesn't speak for himself throughout as he is resident at hospital in a deep coma following a fall during a climbing accident, although we do learn a lot about him. He experiences life at full pelt, he feels deeply and he is seriously emotionally scarred and suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as a result of events experienced as a marine in the Gulf War.
Samantha is Jason's ex-wife, and his best friend - now married to Alex, the man she calls the love of her life; Abby is Jason's current partner, plagued by guilt, and left to pick up the broken pieces of her life in the days following Jason's accident. Samantha and Abby are thrown together in this poignant story of love in all its many forms, and learn to get along, as they each tell their own version of their own life with Jason.
Emma-Jane, Jason's mother, adds a touch of sugar-coated menace to the tale and is so very powerfully imagined that I felt I could almost reach out and touch her - probably with a strong left hook!
I will definitely be reaching for more books by E.J. Hannigan. Thank you to the publishers via Netgalley for the opportunity to read, rate and review 'Saving Jason.'
September 3, 2014
Two women have only one thing in common, their love for Jason. Saving Jason is an emotional story of two women who form an unlikely bond when Jason, a Marine veteran, is seriously injured.
Following the growth of their friendship and watching it evolve is beautiful. Making you realize that often people can surprise you, finding a friend, a soul mate, a sister when you least expect it. More importantly this book actually opened my eyes to PTSD and what families and veterans deal with post war.
EJ Hanagan does a great job with her character development allowing you to really feel like you know the characters as well as having characters you love and love to hate! I couldn’t put this novel down, eager to just read one more chapter of twists and turns!
Following the growth of their friendship and watching it evolve is beautiful. Making you realize that often people can surprise you, finding a friend, a soul mate, a sister when you least expect it. More importantly this book actually opened my eyes to PTSD and what families and veterans deal with post war.
EJ Hanagan does a great job with her character development allowing you to really feel like you know the characters as well as having characters you love and love to hate! I couldn’t put this novel down, eager to just read one more chapter of twists and turns!
September 3, 2014
This book is a real page-turner with a plot that twists and turns and offers some great surprises along the way. What I liked most was the interesting insight/ perspective into PTSD and the havoc it can wreak on not only the victim themselves but those who love them as well. I found the characters in this book to be well-developed and really enjoyed the author's use of metaphor. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the subject of PTSD and also to anyone who just plain loves a good story full of heartfelt emotion.
September 2, 2014
I can't say enough how much I loved this book. I was lucky enough to be an early reader pre-publication and am thrilled she's now a fellow Booktrope author. The book was wrenching but the good cry it brought was also cleansing. I loved the characters and their development. E.J.'s writing is both fresh and enjoyable.
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November 14, 2014~Received For Honest Review~
I don't even know where to start with this review. This book...WOW! PTSD is a serious thing and E.J. Hanagan did a remarkable job writing about it. About how it affects the lives of people. Relationships. The emotional ride of this story is one of those that are up and down. Get ready folks...you will love this book!
I don't even know where to start with this review. This book...WOW! PTSD is a serious thing and E.J. Hanagan did a remarkable job writing about it. About how it affects the lives of people. Relationships. The emotional ride of this story is one of those that are up and down. Get ready folks...you will love this book!
September 8, 2014
As this was the author's first published novel, I wasn't expecting such a well polished book. A quite enjoyable read, page turner at times, and a diverse cast of characters that really came to life.
September 8, 2014
What a wonderful story – I especially loved the character development and the alternating narrators. I am looking forward to reading more books from this author!
January 22, 2015
This book was SO good... I really enjoyed getting to know these characters..
December 29, 2016
"Saving Jason" started out with a bang and then fizzled. This book had so much possibility but died in the telling.
The book isn't so much about Jason, as the title would have you believe, but about the two significant women in his life. And that's where the problems start. Samantha is Jason's ex-wife and best friend. She's a really likable character who has remarried and is living a happy life. She gets a call from Jason's current girlfriend who needs Jason's social security number. (Now let me just add here that the girlfriend, Abby, has been with Jason for two years - living with him for a portion of that time - Don't you think that she might know Jason's social or at least have an idea where to find it?) The information is needed because Jason has had an accident, suffering a traumatic head injury, and is in a coma. And thus the drama begins.
The two women are thrown together and become best friends. Now, I'm okay with this premise - what I'm not okay with is the glossing over of important facts while unimportant events or people are given plenty of pages. For example, was it important to know why Samantha and her new husband couldn't have children? Was it worth the two explanations within the book? While no details were ever given on exactly what ended Jason and Samantha's marriage other than an implied reference to Jason's PTSD. Or did we need to know all about Samantha's sister-in-law's backstory when she had no place in the story except for space filler and attending a Christmas celebration at the end of the book? And how many times did we need to be told that Jason was a dare-devil?
There were some glaring continuity issues. At one point, Abby refers to Jason's death. Two pages later, we're back in the hospital with a comatose Jason. At another point, reference is made to a life insurance policy....which on the very next page is actually a bank account. The bank account makes more sense to the story.
A whole story line devoted to Jason's mother just went crazy by the end of the book, not having any real importance to the story between Abby and Samantha. (Although I will say that the mother did play a significant role in bringing the two women together. So at least she had a part to play)
I never clued into the closeness between Jason and Abby. Hanagan just didn't deliver on the development of that relationship. Most of the story is a flipping back and forth between back story and current. That may be one reason why I never became invested. Quite honestly, about half way through the book, I was tired of flip-flopping between past and present. Every chapter was filled with it for both Abby and Samantha.
The book did have a few redeeming qualities. Hanagan did a good job differentiating between the the voices of the two women. "Saving Jason" is told in two POVs. Samantha came across and as more seasoned, mature than Abby - which she should have being a bit older and more experienced. And Hanagan writes with a good degree of technical skill. The metaphors were original, descriptions beautifully written.
But despite that...I cannot recommend this book. Perhaps a few beta readers and a good editor could have saved it.
The book isn't so much about Jason, as the title would have you believe, but about the two significant women in his life. And that's where the problems start. Samantha is Jason's ex-wife and best friend. She's a really likable character who has remarried and is living a happy life. She gets a call from Jason's current girlfriend who needs Jason's social security number. (Now let me just add here that the girlfriend, Abby, has been with Jason for two years - living with him for a portion of that time - Don't you think that she might know Jason's social or at least have an idea where to find it?) The information is needed because Jason has had an accident, suffering a traumatic head injury, and is in a coma. And thus the drama begins.
The two women are thrown together and become best friends. Now, I'm okay with this premise - what I'm not okay with is the glossing over of important facts while unimportant events or people are given plenty of pages. For example, was it important to know why Samantha and her new husband couldn't have children? Was it worth the two explanations within the book? While no details were ever given on exactly what ended Jason and Samantha's marriage other than an implied reference to Jason's PTSD. Or did we need to know all about Samantha's sister-in-law's backstory when she had no place in the story except for space filler and attending a Christmas celebration at the end of the book? And how many times did we need to be told that Jason was a dare-devil?
There were some glaring continuity issues. At one point, Abby refers to Jason's death. Two pages later, we're back in the hospital with a comatose Jason. At another point, reference is made to a life insurance policy....which on the very next page is actually a bank account. The bank account makes more sense to the story.
A whole story line devoted to Jason's mother just went crazy by the end of the book, not having any real importance to the story between Abby and Samantha. (Although I will say that the mother did play a significant role in bringing the two women together. So at least she had a part to play)
I never clued into the closeness between Jason and Abby. Hanagan just didn't deliver on the development of that relationship. Most of the story is a flipping back and forth between back story and current. That may be one reason why I never became invested. Quite honestly, about half way through the book, I was tired of flip-flopping between past and present. Every chapter was filled with it for both Abby and Samantha.
The book did have a few redeeming qualities. Hanagan did a good job differentiating between the the voices of the two women. "Saving Jason" is told in two POVs. Samantha came across and as more seasoned, mature than Abby - which she should have being a bit older and more experienced. And Hanagan writes with a good degree of technical skill. The metaphors were original, descriptions beautifully written.
But despite that...I cannot recommend this book. Perhaps a few beta readers and a good editor could have saved it.
May 27, 2019
I’ve accomplished nothing else these last two days- this book took over!
Kate writes in a voice that gave me a true visual experience. I feel as if I know Samantha, and all the other characters, in a way that I truly felt their sorrow and rejoiced in their triumphs. Yet another great book by Kate.
Kate writes in a voice that gave me a true visual experience. I feel as if I know Samantha, and all the other characters, in a way that I truly felt their sorrow and rejoiced in their triumphs. Yet another great book by Kate.
December 30, 2015
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
E.J. Hanagan wrote an astounding novel about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I was reeled in from the beginning. This is a pertinent novel in this day and age, as many of our military members are coming home from war with this disorder. It was refreshing to read a book that revolved around PTSD with such poise.
Jason Barnes comes home from the war on terror, and is suffering from PTSD. I liked him a lot. He was a character that you will fall in love with.
His marriage to Samantha ends, and he dates many women until he meets Abby and things change. Is he ready to settle down again?
Jason is in an accident that puts him in ICU, and his mother, Samantha and Abby are all there to pull for Jason…. but, along the way…. they learn to pull for each other.
I was definitely enamored with this story, and highly recommend it for everyone. But, if you know anyone suffering from PTSD, this is a great read for you.
Definitely emotionally charged!
E.J. Hanagan wrote an astounding novel about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I was reeled in from the beginning. This is a pertinent novel in this day and age, as many of our military members are coming home from war with this disorder. It was refreshing to read a book that revolved around PTSD with such poise.
Jason Barnes comes home from the war on terror, and is suffering from PTSD. I liked him a lot. He was a character that you will fall in love with.
His marriage to Samantha ends, and he dates many women until he meets Abby and things change. Is he ready to settle down again?
Jason is in an accident that puts him in ICU, and his mother, Samantha and Abby are all there to pull for Jason…. but, along the way…. they learn to pull for each other.
I was definitely enamored with this story, and highly recommend it for everyone. But, if you know anyone suffering from PTSD, this is a great read for you.
Definitely emotionally charged!
January 16, 2015
I found this book to be inspiring and educational. The author has done a wonderful job creating many very real and sympathetic characters. There are no stereotypes here! The story highlights the tragedy of PTSD while also providing hope. In addition, I think it sheds a very interesting light on veterans coming home from the various wars and situations America has been involved in recently. All in all, a lovely and graceful read.
September 21, 2018
It was a very good book...very believable. I was hoping for a different ending but that's life!
February 23, 2021
Wow
I do not have the words for all this novel is...
Poignant is probably the closest I can come to a description. Samantha and Abby are two truly amazing main characters. Such strength and love between two women one would never expect, a love brought forth from the love of an amazing young man.
The PTSD the young man deals with and the love he has for both the young women is the reason that this novel is so moving. While we meet Jason through their love and memories, he is an integral part of this novel.
I recommend tissues, and even with the tears and feelings brought forward, the author brings joy.
The ending was simply amazingly beautiful. I was so happy for Abby and Samantha both, and little Bridget.
Wow, again, what a novel. I did not expect what I got, but I am so glad for what I did get, even more what I got from the book!
You're an amazing writer, Ms. Anslinger.
Karen
I do not have the words for all this novel is...
Poignant is probably the closest I can come to a description. Samantha and Abby are two truly amazing main characters. Such strength and love between two women one would never expect, a love brought forth from the love of an amazing young man.
The PTSD the young man deals with and the love he has for both the young women is the reason that this novel is so moving. While we meet Jason through their love and memories, he is an integral part of this novel.
I recommend tissues, and even with the tears and feelings brought forward, the author brings joy.
The ending was simply amazingly beautiful. I was so happy for Abby and Samantha both, and little Bridget.
Wow, again, what a novel. I did not expect what I got, but I am so glad for what I did get, even more what I got from the book!
You're an amazing writer, Ms. Anslinger.
Karen
January 12, 2025
free ebook , so blessed to get it
such a good book
her x husband who kept in contact with her even after she remarried, fell in during a climb. he is brain dead in the hospital
his current girlfriend was jealous about his x and their friendship, they had gotten in a fight before he went on the climb. she had a fight with the x at the hospital but after talking they became friends
his mother on the other hand was a drunk and druggie, only after his money and possessions
they unplugged him and he died
but the girl friend didnt know she was preg till after he had the accident, which he left letters to tell them he couldnt keep living due to what happened when he was stationed in iraq
she had a girl and the x and her remained friends. the x gave her the money she got from the shared bank acct she had with her x husband to help with the baby
such a good book
her x husband who kept in contact with her even after she remarried, fell in during a climb. he is brain dead in the hospital
his current girlfriend was jealous about his x and their friendship, they had gotten in a fight before he went on the climb. she had a fight with the x at the hospital but after talking they became friends
his mother on the other hand was a drunk and druggie, only after his money and possessions
they unplugged him and he died
but the girl friend didnt know she was preg till after he had the accident, which he left letters to tell them he couldnt keep living due to what happened when he was stationed in iraq
she had a girl and the x and her remained friends. the x gave her the money she got from the shared bank acct she had with her x husband to help with the baby
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2019
Confusing
This was not atypical romance novel it did not have the hea the author did not do a good as job as another author did with traumatic brain injury. Also I have a pet peeve with timelines the author wrote that Samantha found out about the accident and flew up the same day yet when she met the Dr he said Jason was in a coma for 5 days.his sister was never there and he had raised her. Also did the author never here ivf it's possible to get pregnant these days with help. While the story had premise the characterizatons were weak and the ending w did not make sence
This was not atypical romance novel it did not have the hea the author did not do a good as job as another author did with traumatic brain injury. Also I have a pet peeve with timelines the author wrote that Samantha found out about the accident and flew up the same day yet when she met the Dr he said Jason was in a coma for 5 days.his sister was never there and he had raised her. Also did the author never here ivf it's possible to get pregnant these days with help. While the story had premise the characterizatons were weak and the ending w did not make sence
May 28, 2023
Heartwrenching
I don't know how to explain this book with out revealing the end. All the characters are written so life like, especially Emma Jean, having been born and raised in the South, she is the stereotypical brash, bleached blond addicted woman you see written about in old Southern novels.
Samantha and Abby are destined to be friends.
Thank you Kate Anslinger for a well written story about the terrors of war and the effects on the men and their families long after they return home.
I don't know how to explain this book with out revealing the end. All the characters are written so life like, especially Emma Jean, having been born and raised in the South, she is the stereotypical brash, bleached blond addicted woman you see written about in old Southern novels.
Samantha and Abby are destined to be friends.
Thank you Kate Anslinger for a well written story about the terrors of war and the effects on the men and their families long after they return home.
May 27, 2023
Not Quite a Five
A good book, but not the best book. This story could have culminated in a crescendo but instead it sort of dwindled away in the end. The last chapter made no a sense at all. If the author would not have tired out, and tried to finish the book with the bang we all deserved, I would have given it a five. Great story and well written, but a disappointment in the end.
A good book, but not the best book. This story could have culminated in a crescendo but instead it sort of dwindled away in the end. The last chapter made no a sense at all. If the author would not have tired out, and tried to finish the book with the bang we all deserved, I would have given it a five. Great story and well written, but a disappointment in the end.
September 13, 2019
Beautiful story.
I didn't know what to expect with this story because I thought they would put Jason and Sam back together. But they were good friends who still had love for each other but found love with others. Oh Jason living with such pain that he could never get over and then choosing to take his life was sad. Had tears in my eyes.
I didn't know what to expect with this story because I thought they would put Jason and Sam back together. But they were good friends who still had love for each other but found love with others. Oh Jason living with such pain that he could never get over and then choosing to take his life was sad. Had tears in my eyes.
September 16, 2020
Tenderly told story
A story that could have been melancholic, instead is filled with characters who exhibit love and compassion toward each other. Except for one, who's toxic behavior is given the cold shoulder and rightly so, so that the rest of the family and friends can successfully knit together their new heartfelt bond.
A story that could have been melancholic, instead is filled with characters who exhibit love and compassion toward each other. Except for one, who's toxic behavior is given the cold shoulder and rightly so, so that the rest of the family and friends can successfully knit together their new heartfelt bond.
March 28, 2023
Touching storyline
A touching story which follows the lives of two women, the ex and the current girlfriend. The plot is full of movement from their present circumstances and the past, with smooth and a heartfelt storyline throughout. An easy read, with likeable characters and a plot that kept you reading.
A touching story which follows the lives of two women, the ex and the current girlfriend. The plot is full of movement from their present circumstances and the past, with smooth and a heartfelt storyline throughout. An easy read, with likeable characters and a plot that kept you reading.
June 7, 2025
AWESOME !
This story fills your heart with so much love and heartache- you know what will happen but the ending IS a happy surprise. PTSD is very serious and affects everyone. This story is very emotional and gives much needed understanding. I would recommend reading this to everyone !
This story fills your heart with so much love and heartache- you know what will happen but the ending IS a happy surprise. PTSD is very serious and affects everyone. This story is very emotional and gives much needed understanding. I would recommend reading this to everyone !
July 11, 2019
Must Read!
This is a truly exceptional, heartwarming story of loss, hope, and friendship. Well written, strong character development, and some true gems of wisdom. I cried, I laughed, and I mourned with two women who loved the same man in different ways.
This is a truly exceptional, heartwarming story of loss, hope, and friendship. Well written, strong character development, and some true gems of wisdom. I cried, I laughed, and I mourned with two women who loved the same man in different ways.
July 17, 2019
Amazing Read
Wonderful story about life, love, family and dealing with PTSD. Family is much more than blood relatives. It is also the friends who become family as we go through life. Totally enjoyed everything about this book.
Wonderful story about life, love, family and dealing with PTSD. Family is much more than blood relatives. It is also the friends who become family as we go through life. Totally enjoyed everything about this book.
September 26, 2020
A love story
A love story that includes friends and enemy's . Jason's story is a mixture of life lessons shared with the good, bad, and ugly that exists in every life. Each traits works with the others to mix and mingle and finally accomplish the best possible experience.
A love story that includes friends and enemy's . Jason's story is a mixture of life lessons shared with the good, bad, and ugly that exists in every life. Each traits works with the others to mix and mingle and finally accomplish the best possible experience.
February 14, 2021
Great story
I very much enjoyed this story. Interesting storyline and great character development. At first I didn't like Abby...but once Sam, with her strong personality, befriended Abby, I grew to like her. And Jason....how awful to live with PTSD.
I very much enjoyed this story. Interesting storyline and great character development. At first I didn't like Abby...but once Sam, with her strong personality, befriended Abby, I grew to like her. And Jason....how awful to live with PTSD.
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