What do you think?
Rate this book
The Fractured Life of Lucy Hughes: A Novel
After a surprise proposal fractures her life into two parallel timelines, a speech pathologist must learn to trust her own inner voice in this hopeful and inspiring story about identity and belonging.
Lucy Hughes has never loved being the center of attention, so she’s shocked when her boyfriend proposes via jumbotron. Frozen under the stadium lights, Lucy’s hesitation fractures her future into parallel
No. A video of Lucy’s refusal goes viral, and the backlash is swift and brutal. Unemployed and sleeping in her best friend’s guest room, she slowly rebuilds her life. She’s barely back on her feet when she’s asked to advocate for victims of online harassment. But it would mean finding the courage to step back into the spotlight.
Yes. Lucy, who grew up in foster care, adores Matthew’s large, loving family. But burying her troubled childhood and her bisexuality to better fit into their Southern political dynasty is causing her to lose her grip on her own identity.
To create a future where she can be her authentic self, both versions of Lucy must confront the childhood trauma that shaped her adult relationships and find her own voice.
Lucy Hughes has never loved being the center of attention, so she’s shocked when her boyfriend proposes via jumbotron. Frozen under the stadium lights, Lucy’s hesitation fractures her future into parallel
No. A video of Lucy’s refusal goes viral, and the backlash is swift and brutal. Unemployed and sleeping in her best friend’s guest room, she slowly rebuilds her life. She’s barely back on her feet when she’s asked to advocate for victims of online harassment. But it would mean finding the courage to step back into the spotlight.
Yes. Lucy, who grew up in foster care, adores Matthew’s large, loving family. But burying her troubled childhood and her bisexuality to better fit into their Southern political dynasty is causing her to lose her grip on her own identity.
To create a future where she can be her authentic self, both versions of Lucy must confront the childhood trauma that shaped her adult relationships and find her own voice.
- GenresFictionContemporaryQueer
267 pages, Paperback
Published September 22, 2026
About the author
Annie Morgan
1 book19 followersAnnie Morgan studied journalism at the University of North Carolina before moving to Atlanta, GA. She spends her days teaching and her nights running a cottage bakery. When she’s not wrangling kids or decorating cookies, she’s writing about women trying to find themselves and their place in the world.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 24, 2026
Thank you Annie Morgan and NetGalley for the advanced audiobook of this novel.
4.75 Stars
I enjoyed this novel a lot more than I thought I would. If only we could see where our lives would end up with one decision. However, I don't think that was the only point of the novel. Women need to listen to themselves and what they want and not just what is expected of them.
I also enjoyed having a bisexual character that was able to help explain, in a clear way, what bisexuality is and how it works. I think too many people don't understand it and it causes a lot of riffs even within the LGBTQIA+ community.
I was pulled in right from the beginning and enjoyed it all the way through.
Great read.
4.75 Stars
I enjoyed this novel a lot more than I thought I would. If only we could see where our lives would end up with one decision. However, I don't think that was the only point of the novel. Women need to listen to themselves and what they want and not just what is expected of them.
I also enjoyed having a bisexual character that was able to help explain, in a clear way, what bisexuality is and how it works. I think too many people don't understand it and it causes a lot of riffs even within the LGBTQIA+ community.
I was pulled in right from the beginning and enjoyed it all the way through.
Great read.
September 22, 2026
I’m an absolute sucker for the “sliding doors” trope in contemporary fiction, so I was all in for this, expectations raised. And it did not disappoint!
This novel is at times exceptional, if only for that fact that both strands of Lucy’s life are equally compelling, richly detailed, and emotionally engaging. In the No timeline, Lucy’s marriage proposal refusal goes viral, triggering a swift and brutal online backlash. How can Lucy rebuild herself? Conversely, the Yes timeline sees her accept the proposal, diving into her fiancé Matthew’s life, causing Lucy to bury her foster-care upbringing and her bisexuality, slowly draining her true identity. Annie Morgan handles both possibilities with such nuance so that neither feels lesser; I was deeply invested in how both versions of Lucy find their footing.
Beyond the captivating premise, while it reads as an intensely entertaining, emotionally resonant contemporary drama that you might find hard to put down, it simultaneously carries a vital message about acceptance and self-worth. It lays bare how fragile self-esteem can be when it is preyed upon and stolen by toxic masculinity and internet "warriors" who weaponize digital privacy for sport and amusement, demanding perfection while offering only cruelty.
Annie Morgan has crafted a poignant exploration of identity, belonging, and the quiet courage it takes to trust your own inner voice against all odds. This is brilliant! A novel that lingers in your thoughts long after you’ve turned the final page.
Thank you to the author and publisher and to NetGalley for the chance to root for both versions of Lucy in this ARC.
This novel is at times exceptional, if only for that fact that both strands of Lucy’s life are equally compelling, richly detailed, and emotionally engaging. In the No timeline, Lucy’s marriage proposal refusal goes viral, triggering a swift and brutal online backlash. How can Lucy rebuild herself? Conversely, the Yes timeline sees her accept the proposal, diving into her fiancé Matthew’s life, causing Lucy to bury her foster-care upbringing and her bisexuality, slowly draining her true identity. Annie Morgan handles both possibilities with such nuance so that neither feels lesser; I was deeply invested in how both versions of Lucy find their footing.
Beyond the captivating premise, while it reads as an intensely entertaining, emotionally resonant contemporary drama that you might find hard to put down, it simultaneously carries a vital message about acceptance and self-worth. It lays bare how fragile self-esteem can be when it is preyed upon and stolen by toxic masculinity and internet "warriors" who weaponize digital privacy for sport and amusement, demanding perfection while offering only cruelty.
Annie Morgan has crafted a poignant exploration of identity, belonging, and the quiet courage it takes to trust your own inner voice against all odds. This is brilliant! A novel that lingers in your thoughts long after you’ve turned the final page.
Thank you to the author and publisher and to NetGalley for the chance to root for both versions of Lucy in this ARC.
September 27, 2026
3.5 rounded up. The idea is amazing and is honestly well executed. I picked it up because of the queer and LGBTQ+ label. While I truly appreciated the bisexual representation, which is lacking in our society, I was disappointed that the man she marries is... Exactly the reason I often avoid fiction: toxic white cis men in a toxic relationship where there is no love. I enjoyed the "No" path, but I wish the 'yes" was a bit more nuanced. It left me indifferent despite being very well written. The narrator was very nice to listen to.
Thank you, Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Thank you, Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 25, 2026
This was such a unique book! It was very Choose Your Own Adventure esq. The man you love asks you to marry him. What would happen if you said yes, and what would happen if you said no. Both answers take the reader on quite the journey!
I absolutely loved how the story came full circle!!
Also - props to Xena Warrior Kitten. Every book needs a cat, or two.
My thanks to the author for the gifted copy.
I absolutely loved how the story came full circle!!
Also - props to Xena Warrior Kitten. Every book needs a cat, or two.
My thanks to the author for the gifted copy.
June 21, 2026
I can’t remember the last time I tore through a book this quickly. I started it and simply could not put it down, finishing it in a single day. Every character was fully developed, with personalities and actions that stayed true to their backstories. The two storylines complemented each other beautifully, offering a thoughtful look at how the choices we make in life’s defining moments shape our futures. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to read this author’s next one!
September 22, 2026
The story was well written in a sense that whatever path the MC took, I was there, the story kept me present and conscious of the two differing realities.
The “yes” road though was quite predictable and very on brand with a Matthew as a partner. I just kept thinking, “what did you expect?” But I did like how that road ended and all roads led to her finding her backbone (unlike Ed Sheeran).
The “yes” road though was quite predictable and very on brand with a Matthew as a partner. I just kept thinking, “what did you expect?” But I did like how that road ended and all roads led to her finding her backbone (unlike Ed Sheeran).
June 16, 2026
I didn't realize that the publisher of this book, Lake Union Publishing, is an imprint of Amazon Publishing focusing on book club and upmarket fiction, or I might not have picked this up, because I'm trying to reduce my Amazon consumption. So I was skeptical going in. But I also support authors and these authors have a harder time getting their work into bookstores. But I was pleasantly surprised by this beautiful, introspective book about a woman finding herself in incredibly relatable ways.
Lucy is an anxious introvert who constantly overthinks her decisions. Perhaps you could say she lacks agency or you could find her annoying if you don't also have that personality like me. So I related hard to Lucy from the beginning. She's moving in with her boyfriend Matthew after less than a year of dating, when he proposes to her on a jumbatron at a sports game, her absolute worst nightmare. Same, girl, that would be my biggest fear, too. The moment goes viral.
From there the story splits into dual timelines: What Lucy's life would look like if she said yes, and if she had said no. I thought this was a very compelling concept and it was handled rather well. Dual timelines are not always easy to pull off but this author handled it beautifully.
In one timeline, Lucy says yes and the former foster child gets the family she always wanted, but then she starts to lose herself in all their demands. In the other timeline, Lucy is harassed and doxxed by incels and gets fired from her job, while Matthew makes partner; very realistically, the man gets no repercussions.
I really enjoyed this author's writing style and her characters. Perhaps Matthew could be a little flat and stereotypical, but I was rooting for Lucy the whole time to see through him and find the confidence to take back her life. She does in both timelines, just takes different paths to get there.
This was a solid, thought-provoking work of women's fiction, not too literary but still with a dash of thoughtful introspection. I really connected with the character of Lucy and found her inspiring. I also related strongly to her struggles with her bisexuality and her desire to be accepted as queer enough no matter what circle she was in. A man in her life wasn't just a prop to prove her bisexuality in a show don't tell way in this book, which I appreciated.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lucy is an anxious introvert who constantly overthinks her decisions. Perhaps you could say she lacks agency or you could find her annoying if you don't also have that personality like me. So I related hard to Lucy from the beginning. She's moving in with her boyfriend Matthew after less than a year of dating, when he proposes to her on a jumbatron at a sports game, her absolute worst nightmare. Same, girl, that would be my biggest fear, too. The moment goes viral.
From there the story splits into dual timelines: What Lucy's life would look like if she said yes, and if she had said no. I thought this was a very compelling concept and it was handled rather well. Dual timelines are not always easy to pull off but this author handled it beautifully.
In one timeline, Lucy says yes and the former foster child gets the family she always wanted, but then she starts to lose herself in all their demands. In the other timeline, Lucy is harassed and doxxed by incels and gets fired from her job, while Matthew makes partner; very realistically, the man gets no repercussions.
I really enjoyed this author's writing style and her characters. Perhaps Matthew could be a little flat and stereotypical, but I was rooting for Lucy the whole time to see through him and find the confidence to take back her life. She does in both timelines, just takes different paths to get there.
This was a solid, thought-provoking work of women's fiction, not too literary but still with a dash of thoughtful introspection. I really connected with the character of Lucy and found her inspiring. I also related strongly to her struggles with her bisexuality and her desire to be accepted as queer enough no matter what circle she was in. A man in her life wasn't just a prop to prove her bisexuality in a show don't tell way in this book, which I appreciated.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
September 18, 2026Lucy is taken by surprise when a very public marriage proposal leaves her at the precipice of two very different life paths that us readers are taken along – one if she says yes, and the other if she says no. Each timeline has its complexities and obstacles to work through, providing Lucy insight into what she wants from her life and helping shape her sense of identity.
I loved the insight into Lucy’s job as a speech and language pathologist. The connections she made with her child clients and the detail that Morgan incorporated into providing an overview of therapy sessions brought a relatability to Lucy. Furthermore, the messages that this book conveyed about life, what makes family, the dangers of social media, doxxing and more, particularly at the end when everything was being wrapped up, were insightful and thought-provoking. I was impressed by the creative premise and thought that the dual timelines were well-executed and easy to follow, although they did feel a bit unbalanced at times.
For whatever reason, though, I struggled to connect to these characters or feel anything for them, and the story overall failed to really hit me on an emotional level. I think this was largely due to the writing style, which felt like it focused a lot on telling, rather than showing us what was happening. While I also appreciated the bisexual representation, the constant reminders or ways it was repeatedly integrated into every situation or scene felt a bit overkill and became the character’s entire personality at one point. On a more positive note, I enjoyed how this story was complex and didn’t gloss over childhood trauma or darker themes relating to substance abuse, foster care experiences, etc., which felt nuanced and realistic.
This was a story about family, friendship and redemption that I think many would get a lot out of. Thank you to Brilliance Publishing, Annie Morgan and NetGalley for the opportunity to access this ALC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I loved the insight into Lucy’s job as a speech and language pathologist. The connections she made with her child clients and the detail that Morgan incorporated into providing an overview of therapy sessions brought a relatability to Lucy. Furthermore, the messages that this book conveyed about life, what makes family, the dangers of social media, doxxing and more, particularly at the end when everything was being wrapped up, were insightful and thought-provoking. I was impressed by the creative premise and thought that the dual timelines were well-executed and easy to follow, although they did feel a bit unbalanced at times.
For whatever reason, though, I struggled to connect to these characters or feel anything for them, and the story overall failed to really hit me on an emotional level. I think this was largely due to the writing style, which felt like it focused a lot on telling, rather than showing us what was happening. While I also appreciated the bisexual representation, the constant reminders or ways it was repeatedly integrated into every situation or scene felt a bit overkill and became the character’s entire personality at one point. On a more positive note, I enjoyed how this story was complex and didn’t gloss over childhood trauma or darker themes relating to substance abuse, foster care experiences, etc., which felt nuanced and realistic.
This was a story about family, friendship and redemption that I think many would get a lot out of. Thank you to Brilliance Publishing, Annie Morgan and NetGalley for the opportunity to access this ALC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When Lucy Hughes, a quiet and anxious introvert is proposed to by her boyfriend on the jumbotron of a baseball game, surrounded by his parents and business associates, Lucy freezes. The rest of the book explores back and forth the fall out of that decision. In alternating yes/no chapters, we see Lucy’s life unfold after the proposal.
Both sides show Lucy as she loses herself in favor of what other people are looking for from her, and I was surprised at how little she dealt with the trauma of her childhood- her distant and addicted mum, her time in foster care, and her constant need to please and not be a bother to those around her.
Overall, this was a good and quick read. The introspection that Lucy shows was well thought out and articulated and I appreciated the pace that the book kept throughout.
3.5 stars
Publish Date: September 22, 2026.
I received an advanced copy from Netgalley and the publishers in exchange for my review.
Both sides show Lucy as she loses herself in favor of what other people are looking for from her, and I was surprised at how little she dealt with the trauma of her childhood- her distant and addicted mum, her time in foster care, and her constant need to please and not be a bother to those around her.
Overall, this was a good and quick read. The introspection that Lucy shows was well thought out and articulated and I appreciated the pace that the book kept throughout.
3.5 stars
Publish Date: September 22, 2026.
I received an advanced copy from Netgalley and the publishers in exchange for my review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This may be an unpopular opinion, but I'm Team Matthew. HEAR ME OUT 😂😂😂 Matt for sure has his own emotional/maturing work to do and he is not a good fit for Lucy, but he's not crazy for assuming their relationship was serious after she agreed to move in! I'm still struggling to understand how Lucy thought they were just vibing when Matt is clearly a "Track Man" following the path laid out for him: meet a girl, date, move in, get engaged, marry, have kids, continue working like crazy. Tale as old as time. The main issue here is Lucy's complete refusal to communicate. The second issue is her selfishness. She says it herself in a thought to readers: "Maybe this is why. Because nothing is ever good enough for (Lucy). Because she pushes away anyone who dares to be anything less than perfect." It's either stay and avoid the hard conversation (ironic because of her job!) - devastating peoples lives by denying them the truth- or run away. Lucy villainizes anyone who doesn't naturally support her- even her best friend when Lucy could use her help the most!
Instead of taking responsibility for her actions, going to therapy, maturing, and speaking up for herself, Morgan paints Lucy as a victim. This prideful, self-serving assumption that everyone else is an obstacle, impeding her joy, does Lucy no favors. Lucy shows her immaturity by rejecting others' individuality and right to their own preferences. It is a common tragedy that parents do not give their kids the skills they need to thrive in real life, but adults are responsible for themselves and cannot keep blaming childhood caregivers into perpetuity. Lucy has the Internet, library, and access to therapists. She's choosing to stay toxic.
As someone who was doxxed by an unhinged stranger, I appreciate the plot push to make doxxing illegal. It is illegal in my state and yet nothing was done to protect my family or penalize the woman. This topic is more complex than the book conveys and requires more than just a passed federal law and standard operation procedure for local police. That said, Morgan doesn't establish why Lucy would receive such constant, vitriol hate from strangers after one gaffed jumbotron proposal. This miss bothered me because of my personal experience with it.
Take away: I hope readers see Lucy's actions as a cautionary tale. Refusing to have hard conversations does not remove the hard situation, but often delays it if not exacerbates the situation. Imagining you're a victim does not add to your life, but often alienates people who truly mean well. We only get one life and wasting even one day isn't worth the joy lost. If you identify with Lucy, I hope you also get the help you need to confront your own past and current choices just like Lucy did.
Troupes: lgbtqia+, alternative timelines, troubled protagonist, anti-Elon Musk, anti-Christian, miscommunication drama, emotional growth, friends to lovers, HEA
Spice: 2/5 🌶️
Gore: 0/5 🩸
Language: 1/5 👀
Triggers: no communication within relationships, doxxing, divorce
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC!
Instead of taking responsibility for her actions, going to therapy, maturing, and speaking up for herself, Morgan paints Lucy as a victim. This prideful, self-serving assumption that everyone else is an obstacle, impeding her joy, does Lucy no favors. Lucy shows her immaturity by rejecting others' individuality and right to their own preferences. It is a common tragedy that parents do not give their kids the skills they need to thrive in real life, but adults are responsible for themselves and cannot keep blaming childhood caregivers into perpetuity. Lucy has the Internet, library, and access to therapists. She's choosing to stay toxic.
As someone who was doxxed by an unhinged stranger, I appreciate the plot push to make doxxing illegal. It is illegal in my state and yet nothing was done to protect my family or penalize the woman. This topic is more complex than the book conveys and requires more than just a passed federal law and standard operation procedure for local police. That said, Morgan doesn't establish why Lucy would receive such constant, vitriol hate from strangers after one gaffed jumbotron proposal. This miss bothered me because of my personal experience with it.
Take away: I hope readers see Lucy's actions as a cautionary tale. Refusing to have hard conversations does not remove the hard situation, but often delays it if not exacerbates the situation. Imagining you're a victim does not add to your life, but often alienates people who truly mean well. We only get one life and wasting even one day isn't worth the joy lost. If you identify with Lucy, I hope you also get the help you need to confront your own past and current choices just like Lucy did.
Troupes: lgbtqia+, alternative timelines, troubled protagonist, anti-Elon Musk, anti-Christian, miscommunication drama, emotional growth, friends to lovers, HEA
Spice: 2/5 🌶️
Gore: 0/5 🩸
Language: 1/5 👀
Triggers: no communication within relationships, doxxing, divorce
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝘂𝗰𝘆 𝗛𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝘆 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻
𝘈𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘭, 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘵-𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥.
Surprised by a very public marriage proposal, the life Lucy Hughes has known fractures. In a sliding doors moment her answer – yes or no – dictates the future. This is a hopeful and inspiring story about childhood trauma, identity, belonging and the consequences of living life in the public glare of social media.
Lucy Hughes, a speech therapist who has never quite found her own voice is shocked when her boyfriend proposes on the public screen at a sporting event. Frozen under the stadium lights, Lucy’s hesitation fractures her future into parallel lives:
𝘕𝘰 - A video of Lucy’s refusal goes viral, and the backlash is swift and brutal. Losing her job and home, she battles to rebuild her life. Barely back on her feet, Lucy’s asked to advocate for victims of online harassment; it would mean risk stepping back into the spotlight – can she find the courage?
𝘠𝘦𝘴 - Lucy, who grew up in foster care, adores Matthew’s large, loving family. Burying her troubled childhood and her bisexuality to better fit into their Southern political dynasty is causing her to lose her grip on her own identity. Everyone else but she is planning her wedding. Instead of following what everyone else wants, can she choose the life she really wants?
To create a future where she can be her authentic self, both versions of Lucy must confront the childhood trauma that shaped her adult relationships and find her own voice.
***** 𝟱 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 *****
I loved this book. It’s well written with a compelling central idea, authentically exploring complex themes including the good and bad sides of social media, discrimination, childhood trauma with an added insight into children’s speech therapy which surprised me by being so engaging as a theme in its own right.
As the consequences of ‘no’ began to play out, with the social media backlash so convincing, I almost put the book down. The story was so believable and disturbing it triggered a visceral response of dismay in me. Yet I had to keep reading, desperate that Lucy would find a way through.
Annie cleverly weaves the parallel narratives of Lucy’s fractured life together, never losing the threads. Each story is convincing and complete, together they make a compelling read. I admit I half expected an easy-going romance, but Annie Morgan unfolds a story with many layers, handling complex themes with grace and authenticity.
I was quickly hooked and quite sad when I turned the page to find the Epilogue waiting, so good was the story. I thoroughly recommend sharing Lucy’s journey.
Thank you, Lake Union Publishing, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
𝘈𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘭, 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘵-𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥.
Surprised by a very public marriage proposal, the life Lucy Hughes has known fractures. In a sliding doors moment her answer – yes or no – dictates the future. This is a hopeful and inspiring story about childhood trauma, identity, belonging and the consequences of living life in the public glare of social media.
Lucy Hughes, a speech therapist who has never quite found her own voice is shocked when her boyfriend proposes on the public screen at a sporting event. Frozen under the stadium lights, Lucy’s hesitation fractures her future into parallel lives:
𝘕𝘰 - A video of Lucy’s refusal goes viral, and the backlash is swift and brutal. Losing her job and home, she battles to rebuild her life. Barely back on her feet, Lucy’s asked to advocate for victims of online harassment; it would mean risk stepping back into the spotlight – can she find the courage?
𝘠𝘦𝘴 - Lucy, who grew up in foster care, adores Matthew’s large, loving family. Burying her troubled childhood and her bisexuality to better fit into their Southern political dynasty is causing her to lose her grip on her own identity. Everyone else but she is planning her wedding. Instead of following what everyone else wants, can she choose the life she really wants?
To create a future where she can be her authentic self, both versions of Lucy must confront the childhood trauma that shaped her adult relationships and find her own voice.
***** 𝟱 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 *****
I loved this book. It’s well written with a compelling central idea, authentically exploring complex themes including the good and bad sides of social media, discrimination, childhood trauma with an added insight into children’s speech therapy which surprised me by being so engaging as a theme in its own right.
As the consequences of ‘no’ began to play out, with the social media backlash so convincing, I almost put the book down. The story was so believable and disturbing it triggered a visceral response of dismay in me. Yet I had to keep reading, desperate that Lucy would find a way through.
Annie cleverly weaves the parallel narratives of Lucy’s fractured life together, never losing the threads. Each story is convincing and complete, together they make a compelling read. I admit I half expected an easy-going romance, but Annie Morgan unfolds a story with many layers, handling complex themes with grace and authenticity.
I was quickly hooked and quite sad when I turned the page to find the Epilogue waiting, so good was the story. I thoroughly recommend sharing Lucy’s journey.
Thank you, Lake Union Publishing, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
September 16, 2026
I was SO excited when Annie Morgan sent me a physical ARC of The Fractured Life of Lucy Hughes. First of all, the cover is absolutely gorgeous but the premise sounded really intriguing too! Then I was lucky enough to receive the ALC from the publisher through NetGalley so of course I jumped at the chance to do an immersive read, and ended up absolutely loving it.
The story begins with one very big (and VERY public) marriage proposal and then splits into two timelines: the life Lucy lives if she says yes, and the life she lives if she says no. I love a good “what if?” story, and I thought this one was very well done. I loved that neither version of Lucy’s life felt like the obvious better choice. Saying yes didn’t automatically give her the perfect HEA and saying no didn’t magically put her on the path she was always supposed to take. Both choices came with their own complications, relationships, heartbreaks, and moments that forced Lucy to really look at herself and what she wanted from her life. As different as the two timelines were, both were ultimately about Lucy learning more about herself. She had spent so much time considering what everyone else needed or expected from her that it was really satisfying watching her slowly start making space for her own wants and happiness too. There are some heavier and emotional moments as she works through her past, her identity, family, relationships, and where she belongs, but the story still had this underlying warmth and hopefulness. Without giving anything away, I also loved the little connections between the two timelines. Seeing how certain people continued to cross Lucy’s path was fun. There was something really sweet about watching the two versions of her life unfold and seeing that while our choices absolutely matter, sometimes the people we’re meant to find have a way of finding us too.
I think the writing was easy to fall into and I genuinely looked forward to seeing where BOTH versions of Lucy were headed. The dual timelines never got confusing or difficult to follow. I also really enjoyed the audiobook! Shannon McManus did a great job with the narration and added that extra bit of emotion that made an already heartfelt story even better. It was sweet, emotional, hopeful, and just a really enjoyable experience overall.
Thank you so much to Annie Morgan for the beautiful physical ARC and to the publisher and NetGalley for the ALC. All thoughts are my own.
The story begins with one very big (and VERY public) marriage proposal and then splits into two timelines: the life Lucy lives if she says yes, and the life she lives if she says no. I love a good “what if?” story, and I thought this one was very well done. I loved that neither version of Lucy’s life felt like the obvious better choice. Saying yes didn’t automatically give her the perfect HEA and saying no didn’t magically put her on the path she was always supposed to take. Both choices came with their own complications, relationships, heartbreaks, and moments that forced Lucy to really look at herself and what she wanted from her life. As different as the two timelines were, both were ultimately about Lucy learning more about herself. She had spent so much time considering what everyone else needed or expected from her that it was really satisfying watching her slowly start making space for her own wants and happiness too. There are some heavier and emotional moments as she works through her past, her identity, family, relationships, and where she belongs, but the story still had this underlying warmth and hopefulness. Without giving anything away, I also loved the little connections between the two timelines. Seeing how certain people continued to cross Lucy’s path was fun. There was something really sweet about watching the two versions of her life unfold and seeing that while our choices absolutely matter, sometimes the people we’re meant to find have a way of finding us too.
I think the writing was easy to fall into and I genuinely looked forward to seeing where BOTH versions of Lucy were headed. The dual timelines never got confusing or difficult to follow. I also really enjoyed the audiobook! Shannon McManus did a great job with the narration and added that extra bit of emotion that made an already heartfelt story even better. It was sweet, emotional, hopeful, and just a really enjoyable experience overall.
Thank you so much to Annie Morgan for the beautiful physical ARC and to the publisher and NetGalley for the ALC. All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved the sliding door concept of this novel by Annie Morgan.
Our main character, Lucy Hughes, a speech pathologist in her late 30s, has not found true love—that is until she meets Matthew, a handsome, single lawyer. Lucy and Matthew's lives truly could not be any more different. Lucy came from a single-parent family, never knowing her father, and her mother overdosed when Lucy was in college. Before that, Lucy had a very unstable childhood, spending time in and out of foster care, finally ending up with an aunt and uncle. Matthew hails from a very wealthy political family that is very close and perhaps even overly involved. Their personalities more or less reflect their upbringings, too. Lucy is an anxious introvert, and Matthew is a very outgoing, sure-of-himself extrovert.
Well, as they say, opposites attract, and after a few months, Lucy moves in with Matthew after she finds herself in a quandary with her housing. Lucy agrees to the move and the living arrangement but with a little bit of trepidation. Soon though, Matthew shockingly surprises Lucy with a very public proposal...at an MLB game on the jumbotron—not only in front of a stadium full of fans witnessing, but also his entire family in attendance. Lucy is flabbergasted and shocked and says No.
Soon, Lucy begins receiving hateful and threatening emails and texts. On top of that, she loses her job, which she loved. Matthew, humiliated and embarrassed with her response, asks her to move out immediately. The remainder of the book then alternates between "what-if" chapters for the next year of Lucy's life—what if she had said yes...what would her life be like? Since she did say no though, what is her life like for the following months?
I did really like the alternate realities and "what-if" scenarios, and I felt this structure enabled the author to reveal roles and personalities of several secondary characters, too. If you've ever read any other books with parallel-universe plots before based on a random moment and enjoyed them, I recommend Annie Morgan's new one due to hit shelves on Sept. 22, 2026. Thank you, NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing, for this engaging ARC.
Our main character, Lucy Hughes, a speech pathologist in her late 30s, has not found true love—that is until she meets Matthew, a handsome, single lawyer. Lucy and Matthew's lives truly could not be any more different. Lucy came from a single-parent family, never knowing her father, and her mother overdosed when Lucy was in college. Before that, Lucy had a very unstable childhood, spending time in and out of foster care, finally ending up with an aunt and uncle. Matthew hails from a very wealthy political family that is very close and perhaps even overly involved. Their personalities more or less reflect their upbringings, too. Lucy is an anxious introvert, and Matthew is a very outgoing, sure-of-himself extrovert.
Well, as they say, opposites attract, and after a few months, Lucy moves in with Matthew after she finds herself in a quandary with her housing. Lucy agrees to the move and the living arrangement but with a little bit of trepidation. Soon though, Matthew shockingly surprises Lucy with a very public proposal...at an MLB game on the jumbotron—not only in front of a stadium full of fans witnessing, but also his entire family in attendance. Lucy is flabbergasted and shocked and says No.
Soon, Lucy begins receiving hateful and threatening emails and texts. On top of that, she loses her job, which she loved. Matthew, humiliated and embarrassed with her response, asks her to move out immediately. The remainder of the book then alternates between "what-if" chapters for the next year of Lucy's life—what if she had said yes...what would her life be like? Since she did say no though, what is her life like for the following months?
I did really like the alternate realities and "what-if" scenarios, and I felt this structure enabled the author to reveal roles and personalities of several secondary characters, too. If you've ever read any other books with parallel-universe plots before based on a random moment and enjoyed them, I recommend Annie Morgan's new one due to hit shelves on Sept. 22, 2026. Thank you, NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing, for this engaging ARC.
September 22, 2026
This was an interesting “Sliding Doors” style story about the life of speech pathologist Lucy Hughes after she receives an unexpected and very public marriage proposal. Lucy is a very flawed character who is failing to deal with her significant childhood trauma, and the “Yes” and “No” tracks of her story show different aspects of how this affects her relationships. I found her story sad, frustrating, emotional, and ultimately inspiring and romantic.
For most of the book, the “Yes” story really annoyed me because Lucy stubbornly refuses to face reality and have difficult conversations. The way she loses herself in her relationship is entirely her own fault. She complains that Matthew doesn’t understand her, yet she doesn’t seem to understand him well either and is often surprised by his remarkably consistent behavior. She spent enough time around him and his family that she should have understood what she was signing up for. And she seldom ever speaks up for herself. I was really touched by her relationship with her family though, and the story ends well.
The “No” story was also difficult to read at the beginning, because Lucy becomes so deeply depressed and keeps questioning her own decisions and blaming herself for things that weren’t her fault. I was really surprised that she wasn’t getting therapy, but she exercises more agency earlier in the story here and seems to find her way to a mostly happy life that suits her.
This book deals with some difficult subjects, including child neglect, substance abuse, death of a parent, homophobia and bisexual erasure, and doxxing. While Lucy’s thought patterns and behaviors were really frustrating at times and I could not comprehend why she wasn’t in therapy, she does grow a lot, and the ending of the story had me cheering.
The audiobook production was excellent, and I enjoyed Shannon McManus’s narration. Her narration suited the story, with good pacing, clear pronunciation, and the ability to convey mood and emotion effectively.
Thanks to Brilliance Audio for providing me with a free advanced review copy of the audiobook through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
For most of the book, the “Yes” story really annoyed me because Lucy stubbornly refuses to face reality and have difficult conversations. The way she loses herself in her relationship is entirely her own fault. She complains that Matthew doesn’t understand her, yet she doesn’t seem to understand him well either and is often surprised by his remarkably consistent behavior. She spent enough time around him and his family that she should have understood what she was signing up for. And she seldom ever speaks up for herself. I was really touched by her relationship with her family though, and the story ends well.
The “No” story was also difficult to read at the beginning, because Lucy becomes so deeply depressed and keeps questioning her own decisions and blaming herself for things that weren’t her fault. I was really surprised that she wasn’t getting therapy, but she exercises more agency earlier in the story here and seems to find her way to a mostly happy life that suits her.
This book deals with some difficult subjects, including child neglect, substance abuse, death of a parent, homophobia and bisexual erasure, and doxxing. While Lucy’s thought patterns and behaviors were really frustrating at times and I could not comprehend why she wasn’t in therapy, she does grow a lot, and the ending of the story had me cheering.
The audiobook production was excellent, and I enjoyed Shannon McManus’s narration. Her narration suited the story, with good pacing, clear pronunciation, and the ability to convey mood and emotion effectively.
Thanks to Brilliance Audio for providing me with a free advanced review copy of the audiobook through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
October 12, 2026
I picked up this book because the premise was interesting and quite relatable - who hasn't ever thought about what direction their life might have taken if they'd made a different choice at a pivotal moment. I was worried about the execution of the premise, but was thankfully not disappointed. The chapters alternate between the two timelines, and are clearly labeled Yes and No. They parallel each other, especially at the beginning, but are rarely repetitive.
The characters in this one are a bit of a mixed bag. First off, Matthew is very stereotypical/tropey. Not a huge deal as it fills the role the author needed filled, but it would have been nice to have some nuance or depth with him. And then Lucy. The more the book went on and I thought about it, the more I realized that she was creating a lot of negative situations herself by not communicating or having hard conversations, and rather than working on herself through healthy means, just blames things on childhood trauma. Which I definitely understand, but as an adult, you become responsible for your own actions no matter how garbage your parents were when you were a kid (coming from someone with personal experience). You're also responsible for not working on yourself and your personal healing as an adult. This was a pet peeve of mine and made Lucy much less of a sympathetic character to me despite how hard the author tried to paint her as an innocent victim in everything.
I also wasn't sure if I was going to like the ending and was worried about it for most of the book, but I ended up finding it satisfying. If you're looking for a character-driven contemporary fiction with a unique concept and great execution, then I recommend checking this one out. My thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The characters in this one are a bit of a mixed bag. First off, Matthew is very stereotypical/tropey. Not a huge deal as it fills the role the author needed filled, but it would have been nice to have some nuance or depth with him. And then Lucy. The more the book went on and I thought about it, the more I realized that she was creating a lot of negative situations herself by not communicating or having hard conversations, and rather than working on herself through healthy means, just blames things on childhood trauma. Which I definitely understand, but as an adult, you become responsible for your own actions no matter how garbage your parents were when you were a kid (coming from someone with personal experience). You're also responsible for not working on yourself and your personal healing as an adult. This was a pet peeve of mine and made Lucy much less of a sympathetic character to me despite how hard the author tried to paint her as an innocent victim in everything.
I also wasn't sure if I was going to like the ending and was worried about it for most of the book, but I ended up finding it satisfying. If you're looking for a character-driven contemporary fiction with a unique concept and great execution, then I recommend checking this one out. My thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you love a sliding doors/parallel universe concept, then pay attention, books friends! Annie Morgan’s debut, THE FRACTURED LIFE OF LUCY HUGHES is just the book for you. Take a peek at this quick synopsis:
𝘈𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘭 𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘸𝘰 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘭 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴, 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘦𝘤𝘩 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨.
Lucy is blindsided at a baseball game with a surprise proposal, and then the novel takes an interesting turn, showcasing what her life would be like if she’d answered the question with a YES, and also a NO. At first I thought that this was just going to be a cute, and perhaps even a little cheesy romance novel, but was I ever wrong. It tackles some serious themes like childhood trauma, belonging, identity, sexual orientation, doxxing and online harassment. I was quite surprised and actually floored by how much depth and layers this story had.
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Sliding doors concept
- Adoption/foster care stories
- LGBTQ representation
- Self discovery and growth
- Southern setting
- Female friendship
- Wedding planning
- Social media
- Family drama and dynamics
I must say that the character development in both timelines was on point. The growth and self discovery that Lucy experiences throughout is very admirable. I was on her side the entire time, and rooted for her in each scenario. I appreciated the fact that she had flaws, some baggage, and yet a good head on her shoulders. You gotta love a realistic and relatable lead character!
THE FRACTURED LIFE OF LUCY HUGHES releases on September 22nd, and it gets 4/5 stars from me! I hope you check it out.
𝘈𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘭 𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘸𝘰 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘭 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴, 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘦𝘤𝘩 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨.
Lucy is blindsided at a baseball game with a surprise proposal, and then the novel takes an interesting turn, showcasing what her life would be like if she’d answered the question with a YES, and also a NO. At first I thought that this was just going to be a cute, and perhaps even a little cheesy romance novel, but was I ever wrong. It tackles some serious themes like childhood trauma, belonging, identity, sexual orientation, doxxing and online harassment. I was quite surprised and actually floored by how much depth and layers this story had.
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Sliding doors concept
- Adoption/foster care stories
- LGBTQ representation
- Self discovery and growth
- Southern setting
- Female friendship
- Wedding planning
- Social media
- Family drama and dynamics
I must say that the character development in both timelines was on point. The growth and self discovery that Lucy experiences throughout is very admirable. I was on her side the entire time, and rooted for her in each scenario. I appreciated the fact that she had flaws, some baggage, and yet a good head on her shoulders. You gotta love a realistic and relatable lead character!
THE FRACTURED LIFE OF LUCY HUGHES releases on September 22nd, and it gets 4/5 stars from me! I hope you check it out.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A huge heartfelt thankyou to netgally and brilliance publishing for the arc!🥰
Pre-read; getting this arc has got to be the best thing that has appened to me this month. I requested it more than 6 weeks ago and I was sure I wasn't getting it so I almost pre-ordered it the other day! A huge thank-you to brilliance publishing for giving me the arc that was on nr 1 on my arc wishlist! Anyone who knows Me knows I'm obsessed with parallel universes since I wrote my debut novel about them, so I am very excited to start this one. I almost wished up on a falling star to get this arc y'all🤣 (I didn't actually do it don't worry, I just happened to see one the day i requested the arc I wanted so bad)
Read🥰:
I loved the representation in this novel. There is indept representation for biphobia, bisexual errassure, being raised by a drug addict, death of a parent, parental neglect, homophobia, growing up in fostercare,, aporophobia, slutshaming and mysogyny. I did think this was a heavier read than expected. I was expecting some romance or comedic relief or banter in between hardships but in the first 60%+ Lucy experiences almost nothing but bad things, so the novel left me fealing more emotinally drained and sad than I'd expected. Based on the description and genre i'd expected an uplifting novel but this book left me feeling super sad atleast until the 90% mark. And i also didnt like that the romance didnt start until the 85%. I did love the message that no matter which path you choose life will never be perfect so you shouldnt regret the choices you make. The strong emotions the author made me feel are a sign of good writing, but I bingeread the book in 1.5 day and didn't like feeling sad for almost all of the 8 hours of the audiobook. I loved loved loved the cover though
Pre-read; getting this arc has got to be the best thing that has appened to me this month. I requested it more than 6 weeks ago and I was sure I wasn't getting it so I almost pre-ordered it the other day! A huge thank-you to brilliance publishing for giving me the arc that was on nr 1 on my arc wishlist! Anyone who knows Me knows I'm obsessed with parallel universes since I wrote my debut novel about them, so I am very excited to start this one. I almost wished up on a falling star to get this arc y'all🤣 (I didn't actually do it don't worry, I just happened to see one the day i requested the arc I wanted so bad)
Read🥰:
I loved the representation in this novel. There is indept representation for biphobia, bisexual errassure, being raised by a drug addict, death of a parent, parental neglect, homophobia, growing up in fostercare,, aporophobia, slutshaming and mysogyny. I did think this was a heavier read than expected. I was expecting some romance or comedic relief or banter in between hardships but in the first 60%+ Lucy experiences almost nothing but bad things, so the novel left me fealing more emotinally drained and sad than I'd expected. Based on the description and genre i'd expected an uplifting novel but this book left me feeling super sad atleast until the 90% mark. And i also didnt like that the romance didnt start until the 85%. I did love the message that no matter which path you choose life will never be perfect so you shouldnt regret the choices you make. The strong emotions the author made me feel are a sign of good writing, but I bingeread the book in 1.5 day and didn't like feeling sad for almost all of the 8 hours of the audiobook. I loved loved loved the cover though
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
- parallel Yes/No what-if timelines
- bisexual FMC
- childhood trauma ft. adoption/foster care/absent parents
- wholesome female friendships
- social media as the villain
- women's fiction
OH I enjoyed this is a LOT more than I could have imagined!! I have not read many parallel lives/sliding doors books, but this was very fun to read (and by fun, I mean, this was so emotionally heavy that my heart LOVED it :3)
I too, would find my life very fractured if someone publicly proposed me like that with no prior discussion of marriage? Oh I found Matthew annoying from the get go simply because WHO DOES THAT. waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa. Really? Right in front of my social anxiety? AND then CUE the social media bullies WHO GOT AWAY WITH TOO MUCH.
The bi+ rep throughout the book was SO well written? LIKE. LAYERS. And Lucy's friends and support system made me meltttttttttttttttt <3 green flags green flags
Also, also I love how jumping between the timelines reveals the personalities and backstories of all side characters. In either timeline, watching Lucy grow into a more confident person despite the never-ending problems and heartbreaks was veryyyyyyy satisfying AND both timelines have the bestest ending that makes everything SO worth it :D (The Yes Timeline is PEAK RAGEBAIT though because Matthew is behaving like the driest of banana peels)
ALSO THERE'S A CAT. AND I CAN'T EVEN MENTION MY FAV CHARACTER WITHOUT SPOILING THE ENDINGS SOOOOOO GLJDFKNGJLKDNHKDGNTH you will just have to pick this up and read it :)
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the Advance Reader Copy. All opinions shared in this review are solely my own <3
- bisexual FMC
- childhood trauma ft. adoption/foster care/absent parents
- wholesome female friendships
- social media as the villain
- women's fiction
OH I enjoyed this is a LOT more than I could have imagined!! I have not read many parallel lives/sliding doors books, but this was very fun to read (and by fun, I mean, this was so emotionally heavy that my heart LOVED it :3)
I too, would find my life very fractured if someone publicly proposed me like that with no prior discussion of marriage? Oh I found Matthew annoying from the get go simply because WHO DOES THAT. waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa. Really? Right in front of my social anxiety? AND then CUE the social media bullies WHO GOT AWAY WITH TOO MUCH.
The bi+ rep throughout the book was SO well written? LIKE. LAYERS. And Lucy's friends and support system made me meltttttttttttttttt <3 green flags green flags
Also, also I love how jumping between the timelines reveals the personalities and backstories of all side characters. In either timeline, watching Lucy grow into a more confident person despite the never-ending problems and heartbreaks was veryyyyyyy satisfying AND both timelines have the bestest ending that makes everything SO worth it :D (The Yes Timeline is PEAK RAGEBAIT though because Matthew is behaving like the driest of banana peels)
ALSO THERE'S A CAT. AND I CAN'T EVEN MENTION MY FAV CHARACTER WITHOUT SPOILING THE ENDINGS SOOOOOO GLJDFKNGJLKDNHKDGNTH you will just have to pick this up and read it :)
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the Advance Reader Copy. All opinions shared in this review are solely my own <3
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lucy Hughes has just been asked a very important question by her boyfriend (on a Jumbotron no less), and we are about to see what happens when she says yes...and when she says no. I spent the first half of the book feeling incredibly anxious as we bounced back and forth between alternate versions of Lucy's story. When a book is making me anxious, I will unashamedly commit the readerly sin of flipping to the end and deciding if the tension is worth going back and finishing it. In this instance it was, though it still left me with mixed feelings. Neither of Lucy's stories were particularly uplifting or happy, which made it feel heavier than I had anticipated going in to it, and ultimately left me feeling just ok about the book.
I think the concept of the plot is such a unique one, I don't believe I've ever read a book that follows both outcomes after making a big life decision, and that creativity was what prompted me to continue reading when I may have otherwise chosen to put it down. Other things of note, this tackles a very prescient issue in our current world regarding social media and how it can negatively impact innocent people's lives. It also addresses an aspect of being bisexual that, being straight, I had never considered before, and I appreciated the perspective. While I didn't love it, I am glad I read it, and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys alternate timelines and stories about finding your voice.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and freely given.
I think the concept of the plot is such a unique one, I don't believe I've ever read a book that follows both outcomes after making a big life decision, and that creativity was what prompted me to continue reading when I may have otherwise chosen to put it down. Other things of note, this tackles a very prescient issue in our current world regarding social media and how it can negatively impact innocent people's lives. It also addresses an aspect of being bisexual that, being straight, I had never considered before, and I appreciated the perspective. While I didn't love it, I am glad I read it, and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys alternate timelines and stories about finding your voice.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and freely given.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Annie Morgan for #gifted ARC and to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for the gifted ALC. All opinions are my own.
Oh, Lucy Hughes, how my heart broke for you again and again!
After Lucy is ambushed by her boyfriend's very public and unexpected proposal, Lucy's story splits into two timelines: one in which she accepts his proposal and another where she says no. Neither path is without its struggles and lessons to be learned and through both the reader learns Lucy's backstory.
Annie Morgan's debut novel is well written and deals with difficult subject matter in a way that feels genuine and compassionate. I initially wondered if I would have trouble with the alternating timelines, but Annie writes them in such a way that I followed along easily. In fact, I think this storytelling strategy helped break up some of the heavier moments of the story.
Like many women, Lucy has learned to say "Sorry" even when something is not even remotely her fault. This book was an excellent reminder to be brave and unapologetically remain true to yourself.
Shannon McManus was an excellent choice of narrator and voiced Lucy Hughes perfectly, in my opinion.
The Fractured Life of Lucy Hughes is perfect for readers who like emotional journeys and stories of self-discovery. I can't wait to see what Annie comes up with next!
Oh, Lucy Hughes, how my heart broke for you again and again!
After Lucy is ambushed by her boyfriend's very public and unexpected proposal, Lucy's story splits into two timelines: one in which she accepts his proposal and another where she says no. Neither path is without its struggles and lessons to be learned and through both the reader learns Lucy's backstory.
Annie Morgan's debut novel is well written and deals with difficult subject matter in a way that feels genuine and compassionate. I initially wondered if I would have trouble with the alternating timelines, but Annie writes them in such a way that I followed along easily. In fact, I think this storytelling strategy helped break up some of the heavier moments of the story.
Like many women, Lucy has learned to say "Sorry" even when something is not even remotely her fault. This book was an excellent reminder to be brave and unapologetically remain true to yourself.
Shannon McManus was an excellent choice of narrator and voiced Lucy Hughes perfectly, in my opinion.
The Fractured Life of Lucy Hughes is perfect for readers who like emotional journeys and stories of self-discovery. I can't wait to see what Annie comes up with next!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lucy is very happy with the way things are going. She has a job she loves. She's just moved in with her handsome, successfully wealthy boyfriend Matthew. It seems as if she's finally outgrown her past as a foster child whose mother struggled with addiction. Things are humming along nicely. And then Matthew shocks her by proposing at a baseball game. In front of everyone. On the Jumbotron, no less. As someone who's never liked being in the limelight, this ranks right up there as one of her worst nightmares. Not only is she mortified at being the center of everyone's attention, but she and Matthew are still in the early throes of their relationship and haven't even discussed marriage. Of course an answer to his proposal must be given. The question is, just what is the right answer? One path leads to no, the other leads to yes. Each one comes with its own consequences. I loved this story so much. The author does a great job of showing us just what Lucy's life would be like for each possible choice. And underlying both storylines is a message about staying true to yourself and not living your life to please others. Five stars!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I LOVED this one. Lucy is such a deeply developed protagonist, her theme so beautifully explored. I shed tears for her, she feels so real.
In life, we only get to make one choice at a time, only get to explore one path. This novel is a look at two different paths Lucy's life could have taken. I have to admit that I relate very intimately to a surprise and unwelcome proposal with the pressure (if not the desire) to say yes. On Lucy's decision hang themes of the deep need for belonging and the mistrust in her own ability to choose. Her NO leads to instant regrets as she faces the fallout of staying true to herself. Her YES leads to a more nuanced and gradual understanding of herself.
Throughout the book, we learn who Lucy is as we see these mirror worlds and we learn about her past to understand why she is who she is. Though the two paths are vastly different journeys, they both end with Lucy as a more actualized and self-loving woman. There are no right or wrong choices.
This is seriously such a gorgeous story. I highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for the ALC of this book.
In life, we only get to make one choice at a time, only get to explore one path. This novel is a look at two different paths Lucy's life could have taken. I have to admit that I relate very intimately to a surprise and unwelcome proposal with the pressure (if not the desire) to say yes. On Lucy's decision hang themes of the deep need for belonging and the mistrust in her own ability to choose. Her NO leads to instant regrets as she faces the fallout of staying true to herself. Her YES leads to a more nuanced and gradual understanding of herself.
Throughout the book, we learn who Lucy is as we see these mirror worlds and we learn about her past to understand why she is who she is. Though the two paths are vastly different journeys, they both end with Lucy as a more actualized and self-loving woman. There are no right or wrong choices.
This is seriously such a gorgeous story. I highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for the ALC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
While the concept of split timelines is not new (Sliding Doors, the musical If/Then), this book tries to bring a fresh take, tackling issues like bisexual erasure and internet hate.
I felt the book would've been more effective if it had been more concise - there were several sections where each timeline seemed to drag. Ultimately, I really struggled with the character of Lucy. In the Yes timeline, Matthew acted in so many ways that were beyond red flags, and yet she stayed with him and . I understand that her growth was the main arc of the novel, but it just took her so long!
The novel's strength was in its exploration of Lucy's relationship with her aunt Marcy, who raised her when her own mother was unable to. These sections were so interesting in each timeline and approached in a really nuanced way.
Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I felt the book would've been more effective if it had been more concise - there were several sections where each timeline seemed to drag. Ultimately, I really struggled with the character of Lucy. In the Yes timeline, Matthew acted in so many ways that were beyond red flags, and yet she stayed with him and . I understand that her growth was the main arc of the novel, but it just took her so long!
The novel's strength was in its exploration of Lucy's relationship with her aunt Marcy, who raised her when her own mother was unable to. These sections were so interesting in each timeline and approached in a really nuanced way.
Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lucy Hughes life is at a crossroads. She has a job she loves in a private practice working with children. Things are going well with her boyfriend so when he invites her to move in she accepts. Her life had never gone especially smoothly. The most stable home she had growing up was with her Aunt never quite feeling she fit in & she had never shared a home with a romantic partner. Matthew was part of a picture perfect affluent family, the kind she'd always dreamed of.
It's Lucy's 37th birthday and they are due at Matthew's work function at tonight's Atlanta Braves game. He had asked to throw her a big party to introduce her to all his friends & family, but she truly hated being the center of attention and convinced him to celebrate quietly. Unfortunately he didn't exactly "hear her" and proposes via Jumbotron. Lucy's life fractured into two lives. No and she becomes an internet pariah. Yes and she is agreeing to someone she knows she is not. Definitely worth your time!
It's Lucy's 37th birthday and they are due at Matthew's work function at tonight's Atlanta Braves game. He had asked to throw her a big party to introduce her to all his friends & family, but she truly hated being the center of attention and convinced him to celebrate quietly. Unfortunately he didn't exactly "hear her" and proposes via Jumbotron. Lucy's life fractured into two lives. No and she becomes an internet pariah. Yes and she is agreeing to someone she knows she is not. Definitely worth your time!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a well written and thought provoking novel. Definitely different from what I am used to reading. I really enjoyed the dual timeline aspect of the story; it was engaging and kept me so interested in the story that I didn’t put it down until I was finished! I think everyone has a moment in their life where we wish we had made a different decision - hindsight is 20/20, right? I love that the author asks you to examine whether making a different choice would have been better. What effect does our past have on those choices?
We follow along with Lucy on two different journeys after answering her boyfriend’s proposal. Is there a right choice? A better choice? How do you know if you made “the right choice”? What Lucy discovers about herself along the way is informative and a pleasure to read. I think many women will be able to see a lot of themselves in Lucy. This is a book with a unique point of view and characters and experiences you can easily relate to. Highly recommend!
We follow along with Lucy on two different journeys after answering her boyfriend’s proposal. Is there a right choice? A better choice? How do you know if you made “the right choice”? What Lucy discovers about herself along the way is informative and a pleasure to read. I think many women will be able to see a lot of themselves in Lucy. This is a book with a unique point of view and characters and experiences you can easily relate to. Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lucy Hughes is a young woman who faces a big decision: whether or not to accept her boyfriend Matthew’s proposal. But since Matthew chooses the worst possible way to propose, in Lucy’s eyes (in front of thousands of people via Jumbotron), Lucy’s pressured to make her choice quickly.
What follows is this sliding-doors narrative that shows the reader Lucy’s life as it diverges in two directions. In one scenario, she says yes, and in the other, she says no. Her career and relationships are dramatically altered in each one, and we get to see her consider the ramifications in both timelines. Both offer good and bad outcomes, and I was riveted to read both of her stories on parallel train tracks, wondering where she would end up. It’s a powerful story of discovering who you really are and learning to stand up for what you want.
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC!
What follows is this sliding-doors narrative that shows the reader Lucy’s life as it diverges in two directions. In one scenario, she says yes, and in the other, she says no. Her career and relationships are dramatically altered in each one, and we get to see her consider the ramifications in both timelines. Both offer good and bad outcomes, and I was riveted to read both of her stories on parallel train tracks, wondering where she would end up. It’s a powerful story of discovering who you really are and learning to stand up for what you want.
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC!
September 26, 2026
Lucy Hughes finds herself at a crossroads when a very public and unexpected proposal from her boyfriend splits her life into two paths.
I thought the concept behind the book was interesting to start, but it quickly became clear which path the author wanted us to feel was best. Reading between the lines, the "easier" path was supposed to be the wrong one. But luckily for Lucy, she learns about herself and lands on her feet in both timelines. I think the author sets this up as a message to follow your heart, not take the easier path. But, if that was the intent, it could have been executed better because I just didn't find this book that profound or deep. Maybe it's that the writing style was too simple, or maybe I'm just a snob. But this type of storytelling has a lot of potential. The author had a lot of interesting character concepts too, so hopefully they keep writing
I thought the concept behind the book was interesting to start, but it quickly became clear which path the author wanted us to feel was best. Reading between the lines, the "easier" path was supposed to be the wrong one. But luckily for Lucy, she learns about herself and lands on her feet in both timelines. I think the author sets this up as a message to follow your heart, not take the easier path. But, if that was the intent, it could have been executed better because I just didn't find this book that profound or deep. Maybe it's that the writing style was too simple, or maybe I'm just a snob. But this type of storytelling has a lot of potential. The author had a lot of interesting character concepts too, so hopefully they keep writing
October 15, 2026
Lucy’s life fractures into two timelines - one where she says yes to her boyfriend’s VERY public proposal and another where she says no. In both timelines Lucy works through childhood trauma, finding the courage to be her true self despite the consequences and being confident in her bisexuality.
I thought this book did a brilliant job of exploring all of the different aspects of Lucy’s life that were impacted by this one decision. I have to say I found it intensely stressful and rage-inducing for a good portion of the book. Which I think is the appropriate response but just shows how emotive the writing is, which I think was very skilfully done.
I listened to the audiobook and it was well narrated and easy to listen to. Though I don’t feel the narration added anything extra to the book.
I thought this book did a brilliant job of exploring all of the different aspects of Lucy’s life that were impacted by this one decision. I have to say I found it intensely stressful and rage-inducing for a good portion of the book. Which I think is the appropriate response but just shows how emotive the writing is, which I think was very skilfully done.
I listened to the audiobook and it was well narrated and easy to listen to. Though I don’t feel the narration added anything extra to the book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this book. Lucy is forced to make a big choice spur of the moment and having the perspective of the "Yes" path and "No" path was a great way to tell this story. Who doesn't look back at these big life choices and wish they could see how it eventually plays out. It was fantastic how each relationship plays out in each scenario. I also liked how we went back and forth between the Yes and No in timeline order. I thought it was a great way see how both would have played out in real time. And the ending was also *chef's kiss*. I really enjoyed this book, the bi-sexual representation, the grappling with the what-ifs in life and finding your voice in all of it. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Fractured Life of Lucy Hughes is a sliding doors story set in Atlanta, and I loved every minute of it. I am definitely a sucker for a sliding doors trope, and Annie Morgan did a great job telling the dual narratives. Each story arc was unique and engaging, I was completely captivated.
This book seriously brought me so much joy. I loved watching Lucy grow and develop. There is one story that is definitely more hopeful and happy, and I absolutely loved that one!
This novel felt emotionally powerful and I speculated that it might have been a bit of art imitating life. Based on the acknowledgements, I was pretty spot on. It felt like a cathartic journey for the author, and I am grateful she took me with her on her journey.
This book seriously brought me so much joy. I loved watching Lucy grow and develop. There is one story that is definitely more hopeful and happy, and I absolutely loved that one!
This novel felt emotionally powerful and I speculated that it might have been a bit of art imitating life. Based on the acknowledgements, I was pretty spot on. It felt like a cathartic journey for the author, and I am grateful she took me with her on her journey.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews