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amybosica's review
4.0
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
"Happiness isn't in being strong or alone or angry. Happiness isn't in the past. Happiness is found as you turn away from the past and toward the future you make"
As You Turn Away was an intense, emotional read for me. This book follows the story of Quinn and Jonah. Quinn left home at the age of 18 after years of trying ,but failing to be the perfection her mother demanded. She was suffocating, lost and couldn't stay home a moment longer. Her decision to leave home was anything but easy. Quinn's now in New York, living her own life and living her dream. Years have passed, and Quinn finally returns home for a visit. She knows that the visit is not going to go well, but had no idea her visit would play out the way that it did. Quinn is left trying to cope with the tragedy that has struck her and to put the pieces of her life back together. The last thing she expected, was for Jonah to suddenly reappear....... When Jonah left home with his heartbroken, he cut ties with everyone. He became someone he didn't even recognize anymore. But, the time has come for him to come home and make things right. It's time to repair the damage with his family and be the man that he knows he can be......Meanwhile, Fate has plans of her own. Try as they might, Quinn and Jonah can't seem to stay away from one another. They still feel that pull, that connection to one another that refuses to be denied. Their lives have been forever changed. But will they be able to put the past behind them? Will Quinn and Jonah finally have a future together??
As You Turn Away took me on one heck of a roller-coaster ride. I felt that it was well written and pulled me in from the very first page. It was a great story of first love, heartbreak and that second chance at love:
“What we have...is something most folks wait a lifetime for, and only touch for a heartbeat. They let go too quickly, or they're too scared to hold on, or they never see what's right in front of them. But we're going to hold on as tight as we can."
"Quinn, the Walker boys were raised right-to love, serve, and respect women. To treat us as equals. They're a rare breed, and once you've loved one of them, you're ruined for anyone else"
This story also handled some tough subject matter with loss and grief. I think the author did an amazing job of dealing with the loss and the struggle to get help. As well as the struggle to admit that things are not okay and the path that you have to take to fix yourself.
"This summer had been about finding herself, and learning to accept love in its various forms -- and to give love."
I really enjoyed the characters in this story as well. I felt that they were all very easy to connect with and the Walker boys were very entertaining. And I hope that they will get their own stories in the future!
Jonah....What can I say about Jonah. I felt so bad for him. Quinn broke his heart. Completely destroyed him. But Quinn wasn't the only one who said or did something hurtful. Jonah played his part and had to live with the regret of his decisions. He tried to deny that he still had feelings for Quinn, but as they saying goes "true love never dies" and once he realizes that his feelings aren't going anywhere, he starts focusing on how to repair what was lost.
"He hadn't believed it was possible when his brother's told him the past could be the past, but now the seconds between them stretched full of infinite possibilities. Infinite moments full of laughter and hope and love. Infinite days, strung together into a future that was their own. He had to be the man he'd spent so long waiting to be."
And that was one of things that I admired so much about Jonah, was that he never gave up. Even when things looked terrible and all hope was lost, he refused to give up on his love.
I found this book to be a very enjoyable read. I was captivated and got lost in Quinn and Jonah's story. As You Turn Away is going to be one those books that stays with me for a long time. It's beautiful, heartbreaking and full of hope all at the same time. I can't wait for the next book and see what happens next!
* I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
You can also see my review here at: http://www.onceuponabookblog.com/blog/2015/1/5/review-as-you-turn-away-by-molli-moran
"Happiness isn't in being strong or alone or angry. Happiness isn't in the past. Happiness is found as you turn away from the past and toward the future you make"
As You Turn Away was an intense, emotional read for me. This book follows the story of Quinn and Jonah. Quinn left home at the age of 18 after years of trying ,but failing to be the perfection her mother demanded. She was suffocating, lost and couldn't stay home a moment longer. Her decision to leave home was anything but easy. Quinn's now in New York, living her own life and living her dream. Years have passed, and Quinn finally returns home for a visit. She knows that the visit is not going to go well, but had no idea her visit would play out the way that it did. Quinn is left trying to cope with the tragedy that has struck her and to put the pieces of her life back together. The last thing she expected, was for Jonah to suddenly reappear....... When Jonah left home with his heartbroken, he cut ties with everyone. He became someone he didn't even recognize anymore. But, the time has come for him to come home and make things right. It's time to repair the damage with his family and be the man that he knows he can be......Meanwhile, Fate has plans of her own. Try as they might, Quinn and Jonah can't seem to stay away from one another. They still feel that pull, that connection to one another that refuses to be denied. Their lives have been forever changed. But will they be able to put the past behind them? Will Quinn and Jonah finally have a future together??
As You Turn Away took me on one heck of a roller-coaster ride. I felt that it was well written and pulled me in from the very first page. It was a great story of first love, heartbreak and that second chance at love:
“What we have...is something most folks wait a lifetime for, and only touch for a heartbeat. They let go too quickly, or they're too scared to hold on, or they never see what's right in front of them. But we're going to hold on as tight as we can."
"Quinn, the Walker boys were raised right-to love, serve, and respect women. To treat us as equals. They're a rare breed, and once you've loved one of them, you're ruined for anyone else"
This story also handled some tough subject matter with loss and grief. I think the author did an amazing job of dealing with the loss and the struggle to get help. As well as the struggle to admit that things are not okay and the path that you have to take to fix yourself.
"This summer had been about finding herself, and learning to accept love in its various forms -- and to give love."
I really enjoyed the characters in this story as well. I felt that they were all very easy to connect with and the Walker boys were very entertaining. And I hope that they will get their own stories in the future!
Jonah....What can I say about Jonah. I felt so bad for him. Quinn broke his heart. Completely destroyed him. But Quinn wasn't the only one who said or did something hurtful. Jonah played his part and had to live with the regret of his decisions. He tried to deny that he still had feelings for Quinn, but as they saying goes "true love never dies" and once he realizes that his feelings aren't going anywhere, he starts focusing on how to repair what was lost.
"He hadn't believed it was possible when his brother's told him the past could be the past, but now the seconds between them stretched full of infinite possibilities. Infinite moments full of laughter and hope and love. Infinite days, strung together into a future that was their own. He had to be the man he'd spent so long waiting to be."
And that was one of things that I admired so much about Jonah, was that he never gave up. Even when things looked terrible and all hope was lost, he refused to give up on his love.
I found this book to be a very enjoyable read. I was captivated and got lost in Quinn and Jonah's story. As You Turn Away is going to be one those books that stays with me for a long time. It's beautiful, heartbreaking and full of hope all at the same time. I can't wait for the next book and see what happens next!
* I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
You can also see my review here at: http://www.onceuponabookblog.com/blog/2015/1/5/review-as-you-turn-away-by-molli-moran
adultbooksrmyjam's review
4.0
I started this last month but put it on hold because it was making me a big ball of sad. Now that I picked it back up, I’m glad I finished it. It’s a great second chance story with a side of anxiety and depression. I thought how it was talked about and covered was really well written. I definitely related to Quinn in a big way. I was digging the other Walker brothers so I might be checking out the other books by this author.
astrologicalblues's review
3.0
I've had plenty of time to start typing up my review, even with all the work hours that I've been getting lately. Everytime when I think about what I'm going to say, I freeze up a little. But I'll do my best.
Before I forget: I received a free ebook copy for review purposes. I was not paid for this in any shape or form and it does not affect how I view this book. So, in a nutshell, this is how I truly feel about this book.
This story focuses on two people: Quinnlan (Quinn) and Jonah. They both knew each other when they were younger- before the story even began. But something happens between them where they're forced to go their separate ways. They don't meet face to face for years and start growing apart. But now it's a new summer, back in their hometown, and things have changed. But, more importantly, so have they.
With how this book is written, you actually get to see from both of these characters' perspectives. I think this works out for this story pretty well. After all, both of these characters went through a lot of struggles that made them who they are now. I feel like this put things in perspective a bit better rather than just placing focus on one character. It could have easily been a one sided story but I'm glad that wasn't the case at all.
With that said, I didn't really care for Jonah all that much. I knew, at the beginning, that there was something off about him. Somewhere in the book, though, I have to admit that I did fall for him for a moment. It was short lived though and it probably only lasted for about one chapter. The rest of the time I absolutely despised reading the chapters about him. Honestly, I found so many of his actions so triggering for me. By the time the book ended, nothing had really changed. But I'm still glad it ended the way that it had.
I liked Quinnlan. I feel like she's grown a lot and that she still has a whole lot of room to mature. Despite everything that happened through this story, and how much she doubted herself many times, she's still making progress. I ended up liking reading about her some more. Although, I have to admit, I've become a bit biased to her closest friend. Sadly her name escapes me. I'll edit once I remember.
I don't know if I like the thought of them still being together though. It's clear that they both have issues. Jonah's issues isn't as problematic (in my opinion) but they're still things that need to be worked out. I feel like Quinn, however, needs to focus solely on her past and moving on. That may mean leaving Jonah behind as well. No matter how well his intentions are, it'll be a difficult road if they decide to stay together. He's still a part of the toxic past that Quinn went through and sometimes you just need to cut off all toxic ties from the past to heal. Maybe, depending on how things work out with the rest of the books, it could work. But I'm incredibly biased. Sometimes, I feel, you just have to let things go.
The book as a whole... is really good. This was an interesting ride. In essence it's just about two people who are hoping to try to mend the past and hope they can make for a better future for themselves and for other people in their lives. It's a story about growing up. If you think that kind of story is for you, go for it.
Before I forget: I received a free ebook copy for review purposes. I was not paid for this in any shape or form and it does not affect how I view this book. So, in a nutshell, this is how I truly feel about this book.
This story focuses on two people: Quinnlan (Quinn) and Jonah. They both knew each other when they were younger- before the story even began. But something happens between them where they're forced to go their separate ways. They don't meet face to face for years and start growing apart. But now it's a new summer, back in their hometown, and things have changed. But, more importantly, so have they.
With how this book is written, you actually get to see from both of these characters' perspectives. I think this works out for this story pretty well. After all, both of these characters went through a lot of struggles that made them who they are now. I feel like this put things in perspective a bit better rather than just placing focus on one character. It could have easily been a one sided story but I'm glad that wasn't the case at all.
With that said, I didn't really care for Jonah all that much. I knew, at the beginning, that there was something off about him. Somewhere in the book, though, I have to admit that I did fall for him for a moment. It was short lived though and it probably only lasted for about one chapter. The rest of the time I absolutely despised reading the chapters about him. Honestly, I found so many of his actions so triggering for me.
Spoiler
I don't know how much he knew about Quinn's mother, but it absolutely frustrated me how Jonah reacted when she admitted to him that she wanted to start her life as a ballerina in another town. Whether he knew about her family issues or not, though, he should have known that it was something that she wanted to do. Not think that she's clearly abandoning him. Although, thankfully, later on in the book when they're older, she made a point to add that he's been sounding like it's all about him. Thank you Quinn. But I guess it wouldn't be as bad if he actually learned from his lesson but it's clear that, to me, he hasn't.I liked Quinnlan. I feel like she's grown a lot and that she still has a whole lot of room to mature. Despite everything that happened through this story, and how much she doubted herself many times, she's still making progress.
Spoiler
Despite what happened in the past, when she left Jonah, I'm glad she had the confidence to let him go towards a job that she's excited to do. She deserves to be happy and I really hope it works out for her.I don't know if I like the thought of them still being together though. It's clear that they both have issues. Jonah's issues isn't as problematic (in my opinion) but they're still things that need to be worked out. I feel like Quinn, however, needs to focus solely on her past and moving on. That may mean leaving Jonah behind as well. No matter how well his intentions are, it'll be a difficult road if they decide to stay together. He's still a part of the toxic past that Quinn went through and sometimes you just need to cut off all toxic ties from the past to heal. Maybe, depending on how things work out with the rest of the books, it could work. But I'm incredibly biased. Sometimes, I feel, you just have to let things go.
The book as a whole... is really good. This was an interesting ride. In essence it's just about two people who are hoping to try to mend the past and hope they can make for a better future for themselves and for other people in their lives. It's a story about growing up. If you think that kind of story is for you, go for it.
bookedwithmolli's review
No rating from me because I would be hopelessly biased....but this book saved me. It HEALED me. I fell in love with the characters and the friendships and romances. I think I learned more about love while writing AS YOU TURN AWAY. There's friendship and kissing and swoons and humor but mostly, HEART. I hope AS YOU TURN AWAY touches at least one reader the way it did me while I wrote it.
karinaram's review
4.0
4 Stars!
This book was super adorable and sweet!
A second chance at love
Quinn is off living in NYC and pursuing her dream as a ballerina when she comes home for her first awkward family gathering. Her parents are far from the loving folks she remembers before her dad made it big as an attorney. Now her family life revolves around stuffy social events and her mother trying to set her up with "Mr. Right". To bad she met "Mr. Right" back in High School in the form of Jonah Walker. The middle child of three brothers, Jonah is the perfect mix between good and bad, but with his families' average income Quinn's mother is less than approving.
When tragedy strikes and rocks Quinn's life she's going to need everyone, including Jonah, to help her heal.
-----
I thought this book was super sweet. Boy from the wrong side of the social ladder and all. Plus Jonah and his three brothers were super funny and adorable! I loved the dynamic and closeness between everyone. I really enjoyed how they grew over the course of the book as well and truly found themselves.
I wasn't keen on the fact that it was 30% into the book before Quinn and Jonah actually started to talk, there was a lot of filler information between the beginning punch and them actually starting to repair their relationship. For me it felt a little dragged, I think other relationships could've been repaired while Jonah and Quinns were being repaired instead of every character making amends before their story could really start. It t made their relationship seem really rushed.
I loved the cute little flashbacks before each chapter to when they were together in High School, I felt like those somewhat helped to make Jonah's and Quinn's relationship more believable.
The writing was pretty good also! I think this is a really great quick read!
This book was super adorable and sweet!
A second chance at love
Quinn is off living in NYC and pursuing her dream as a ballerina when she comes home for her first awkward family gathering. Her parents are far from the loving folks she remembers before her dad made it big as an attorney. Now her family life revolves around stuffy social events and her mother trying to set her up with "Mr. Right". To bad she met "Mr. Right" back in High School in the form of Jonah Walker. The middle child of three brothers, Jonah is the perfect mix between good and bad, but with his families' average income Quinn's mother is less than approving.
When tragedy strikes and rocks Quinn's life she's going to need everyone, including Jonah, to help her heal.
-----
I thought this book was super sweet. Boy from the wrong side of the social ladder and all. Plus Jonah and his three brothers were super funny and adorable! I loved the dynamic and closeness between everyone. I really enjoyed how they grew over the course of the book as well and truly found themselves.
I wasn't keen on the fact that it was 30% into the book before Quinn and Jonah actually started to talk, there was a lot of filler information between the beginning punch and them actually starting to repair their relationship. For me it felt a little dragged, I think other relationships could've been repaired while Jonah and Quinns were being repaired instead of every character making amends before their story could really start. It t made their relationship seem really rushed.
I loved the cute little flashbacks before each chapter to when they were together in High School, I felt like those somewhat helped to make Jonah's and Quinn's relationship more believable.
The writing was pretty good also! I think this is a really great quick read!
mandy_pandy's review
4.0
3.5 stars. This was a really good second chance romance about coming home and facing your past. This book was really emotional and shows the strength of forgiveness. Quinn wasn't my favorite heroine but I really enjoyed this book. I really loved the ending - it was perfect for this book. Looking forward to reading more about the Walker brothers in this series.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
mrsjkamp's review
4.0
I have to start off this review by saying how proud I am of the author for writing this beautiful novel. I saw bits and pieces of this come together through her social media status updates, and I was lucky enough to be given a beta copy (although my life fell apart shortly after and I was unable to come through for her, which saddens me, but I'm okay with this, and you'll see why). Molli is an amazing spirit, and I'm blessed to call her a friend. With that said, here's my totally honest review.
This book read like art to me in a way. I love the way she combined the words on the page to create this story. As an editor, certain things about words stick out in my brain while reading, but I didn't find those issues in this book. Her words felt purposefully chosen and artfully so. The story of Quinn and Jonah is not one to be forgotten.
Intricate, delicate, tough, emotional, brave--these words can all be used to describe the story and its cast of characters. The ride from beginning to end is told in such a way that mirrors itself, from heartbreak and love to love and heartbreak, and comes full circle. It's a story of family, friendship, trust, trauma, and selflessness. And it's honest and touching. And oh, the ending. Perfection. <3
I read this mostly when I couldn't sleep at night due to a lot of anxiety and stress in my own life. This novel kept me company in the dark hours when things in my own head weren't right, but it also helped me understand some things about myself. I can very much relate to Quinn and her struggles with working through things in the past. She's given me some courage back.
Thank you. <3
This book read like art to me in a way. I love the way she combined the words on the page to create this story. As an editor, certain things about words stick out in my brain while reading, but I didn't find those issues in this book. Her words felt purposefully chosen and artfully so. The story of Quinn and Jonah is not one to be forgotten.
Intricate, delicate, tough, emotional, brave--these words can all be used to describe the story and its cast of characters. The ride from beginning to end is told in such a way that mirrors itself, from heartbreak and love to love and heartbreak, and comes full circle. It's a story of family, friendship, trust, trauma, and selflessness. And it's honest and touching. And oh, the ending. Perfection. <3
I read this mostly when I couldn't sleep at night due to a lot of anxiety and stress in my own life. This novel kept me company in the dark hours when things in my own head weren't right, but it also helped me understand some things about myself. I can very much relate to Quinn and her struggles with working through things in the past. She's given me some courage back.
Thank you. <3
booksheenanigans's review
3.0
I've received a ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Forcing yourself to read something is never a good sign. I didn't feel any connection to story nor the characters whatsoever. Felt mediocre and unfortunately this novel just wasn't my cup of tea.
Forcing yourself to read something is never a good sign. I didn't feel any connection to story nor the characters whatsoever. Felt mediocre and unfortunately this novel just wasn't my cup of tea.