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From the million-copy bestseller Amanda Prowse, the queen of heartbreak fiction. Amanda Prowse is the author of The Coordinates Of Loss and the no.1 bestsellers Perfect Daughter, My Husband's Wife and What Have I Done? This is an unforgettable romance about what happens when two very different people fall in love. Anna Cole grew up poor, but her mother's love made her feel rich every day. Then her mother died, and Anna was sent to a care home. As a teenager, Anna vowed that one day, she would have children of her own, and create the happy, noisy family life she always craved. Then, one day, Anna meets Theo Montgomery in a lift. Theo has kind eyes, but a sad past. His family were rich, but his childhood was full of neglect. Theo can't imagine bringing a child into this cruel world, but he does want a soulmate. Someone to love him unconditionally; someone with whom he can share his family's wealth. Theo and Anna are two damaged souls, from two different worlds. Is their love for each other enough to let go of the pain of their pasts? Or will Anna and Theo break each other's hearts? There are two sides to every love story. This is Anna's. Reviews for Amanda 'Prowse handles her explosive subject with delicate skill... Deeply moving and inspiring' DAILY MAIL. 'Powerful and emotional family drama that packs a real punch' HEAT. 'A gut wrenching and absolutely brilliant read' IRISH SUN. 'Captivating, heartbreaking, superbly written' CLOSER. 'Very uplifting and positive, but you may still need a box (or two) of tissues' HELLO. 'An emotional, unputdownable read' RED. 'Prowse writes gritty, contemporary stories but always with an uplifting message of hope' SUNDAY INDEPENDENT.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2018
3131 people are currently reading
1634 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Prowse
83 books1,940 followersPrevious Book: 'Swimming to Lundy', published th August 2024'.
Latest Book: 'This One Life', published 7th January 2025.
Next Book: 'Ever After' published 7th August 2025.
Amanda Prowse is an International Bestselling author whose thirty-two novels, two non-fiction titles and ten novellas have been published in dozens of languages around the world. Published by Lake Union, Amanda is the most prolific writer of bestselling contemporary fiction in the UK today; her titles also consistently score the highest online review approval ratings across several genres. Her books, including the chart topping No.1 titles 'What Have I Done?', 'Perfect Daughter', 'My Husband's Wife', 'The Girl in the Corner' and ‘The Things I Know’ have sold millions of copies across the globe.
A popular TV and radio personality, Amanda has appeared on numerous shows where her views on family and social issues strike a chord with viewers. She also makes countless guest appearances on BBC national and independent Radio stations including LBC, Times Radio and Talk FM, where she is well known for her insightful observations and her infectious humour. Described by the Daily Mail as ‘The queen of family drama’ Amanda’s novel, 'A Mother's Story' won the coveted Sainsbury's eBook of the year Award and she has had two books selected as World Book Night titles, 'Perfect Daughter' in 2016 and 'The Boy Between' in 2022.
Amanda is a huge supporter of libraries and having become a proud ambassador for The Reading Agency, works tirelessly to promote reading, especially in disadvantaged areas. Amanda's ambition is to create stories that keep people from turning the bedside lamp off at night, great characters that ensure you take every step with them and tales that fill your head so you can't possibly read another book until the memory fades...
Praise for Amanda Prowse:
'A powerful and emotional work of fiction' - Piers Morgan
'Deeply moving and emotional, Amanda Prowse handles her explosive subjects with delicate skill' - Daily Mail
'Uplifting and positive, but you will still need a box of tissues' - Hello!
'A gut-wrenching and absolutely brilliant read' - The Irish Sun
'You'll fall in love with this...' - Cosmopolitan
'Deeply moving and eye opening. Powerful and emotional drama that packs a real punch.' - Heat
'Magical' - Now magazine
Latest Book: 'This One Life', published 7th January 2025.
Next Book: 'Ever After' published 7th August 2025.
Amanda Prowse is an International Bestselling author whose thirty-two novels, two non-fiction titles and ten novellas have been published in dozens of languages around the world. Published by Lake Union, Amanda is the most prolific writer of bestselling contemporary fiction in the UK today; her titles also consistently score the highest online review approval ratings across several genres. Her books, including the chart topping No.1 titles 'What Have I Done?', 'Perfect Daughter', 'My Husband's Wife', 'The Girl in the Corner' and ‘The Things I Know’ have sold millions of copies across the globe.
A popular TV and radio personality, Amanda has appeared on numerous shows where her views on family and social issues strike a chord with viewers. She also makes countless guest appearances on BBC national and independent Radio stations including LBC, Times Radio and Talk FM, where she is well known for her insightful observations and her infectious humour. Described by the Daily Mail as ‘The queen of family drama’ Amanda’s novel, 'A Mother's Story' won the coveted Sainsbury's eBook of the year Award and she has had two books selected as World Book Night titles, 'Perfect Daughter' in 2016 and 'The Boy Between' in 2022.
Amanda is a huge supporter of libraries and having become a proud ambassador for The Reading Agency, works tirelessly to promote reading, especially in disadvantaged areas. Amanda's ambition is to create stories that keep people from turning the bedside lamp off at night, great characters that ensure you take every step with them and tales that fill your head so you can't possibly read another book until the memory fades...
Praise for Amanda Prowse:
'A powerful and emotional work of fiction' - Piers Morgan
'Deeply moving and emotional, Amanda Prowse handles her explosive subjects with delicate skill' - Daily Mail
'Uplifting and positive, but you will still need a box of tissues' - Hello!
'A gut-wrenching and absolutely brilliant read' - The Irish Sun
'You'll fall in love with this...' - Cosmopolitan
'Deeply moving and eye opening. Powerful and emotional drama that packs a real punch.' - Heat
'Magical' - Now magazine
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 435 reviews
December 14, 2019
To be honest I found this book both boring and depressing. It was in my library as an 'easy read'. I don't often skip books but I did with this one, page after page. I only finished it to see how it ended. The heroine seemed to be constantly awash with tears as she moved through one heartbreak to another. Almost all the characters had problems. It is in my bag of books for the charity shop. How I ever got through it the first time round I have no idea.
April 8, 2018
EXCERPT: But you know, what you eat on your wedding day isn't really that important. In fact, whether you get married or not isn't really important. The thing that matters most is that you spend your time with someone who loves you very much and who you love right back, someone who is kind to you and who you, in return, want to be kind to.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: One Love, Two Stories.
Anna Cole grew up in care, and is determined to start a family of her own. Theo Montgomery had a loveless childhood, and wants only to find his soulmate.
Then, one day, Theo meets Anna, and Anna meets Theo. Two damaged souls from different worlds. Is their love for each other enough to let go of the pain of their pasts? Or will Anna and Theo break each others' hearts?
There are two sides to every love story. This is Anna's.
MY THOUGHTS: Those of you who have been following my reviews for some time know that I am no great romance reader. But every now and then I come across something that piques my interest. And Anna certainly did that.
WARNING: Anna is a book that needs to be read with a box of tissues on hand to mop up as we follow Anna's journey.
Anna grows up the adored daughter of a single mum, sister to a drug addict. Her six year old self writes letters to the children she wants to have one day, Fifi and Fox. This is a habit she continues throughout her life. That and playing the alphabet game, a game her mother taught her to play when she was worried or anxious. These two things sustain her through her troubled life. But just when she thinks she has got it all right, everything goes wrong.
I have read and enjoyed Amanda Prowse's books in the past. She has a talent for bringing her characters to life, of making you feel as though you are right there, experiencing the myriad emotions, living through the disasters and triumphs. She wreaks havoc with the reader's emotions. Prowse had me laughing, crying, and everything in between.
Anna is a triumph. I can't wait to read Theo. 4.5 stars
Thank you to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of Anna for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT THIS BOOK: One Love, Two Stories.
Anna Cole grew up in care, and is determined to start a family of her own. Theo Montgomery had a loveless childhood, and wants only to find his soulmate.
Then, one day, Theo meets Anna, and Anna meets Theo. Two damaged souls from different worlds. Is their love for each other enough to let go of the pain of their pasts? Or will Anna and Theo break each others' hearts?
There are two sides to every love story. This is Anna's.
MY THOUGHTS: Those of you who have been following my reviews for some time know that I am no great romance reader. But every now and then I come across something that piques my interest. And Anna certainly did that.
WARNING: Anna is a book that needs to be read with a box of tissues on hand to mop up as we follow Anna's journey.
Anna grows up the adored daughter of a single mum, sister to a drug addict. Her six year old self writes letters to the children she wants to have one day, Fifi and Fox. This is a habit she continues throughout her life. That and playing the alphabet game, a game her mother taught her to play when she was worried or anxious. These two things sustain her through her troubled life. But just when she thinks she has got it all right, everything goes wrong.
I have read and enjoyed Amanda Prowse's books in the past. She has a talent for bringing her characters to life, of making you feel as though you are right there, experiencing the myriad emotions, living through the disasters and triumphs. She wreaks havoc with the reader's emotions. Prowse had me laughing, crying, and everything in between.
Anna is a triumph. I can't wait to read Theo. 4.5 stars
Thank you to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of Anna for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
October 22, 2018
I've made it my aim to try and read as many Amanda Prowse books as I can before Christmas.
I heard so much about both Anna and Theo books and I must say Anna didn't disappoint. Its a story of loss, friendship, heartache but most importantly, love.
You can't help but fall in love with the characters.
I heard so much about both Anna and Theo books and I must say Anna didn't disappoint. Its a story of loss, friendship, heartache but most importantly, love.
You can't help but fall in love with the characters.
April 2, 2018
A new concept of writing a story, a brilliant stroke of genius I must say. One love, two stories, 2 books depicting an intense love story about Anna and Theo.
This book narrates Anna’s story of life and the next one would be Theo’s. Amanda Prowse is the Queen of Emotions. Her words are always read with a sheen of tears over my eyes. Her description of Anna’s childhood, her deep grief on losing her mother and later her brother, had me shutting down the book and closing my eyes, till I could gather my emotions.
At one point, on reading about Anna’s childhood, I didn’t want to read, not because I was bored but because my heart was full. I just wanted to sit and cry, and not many books can bring out these emotions in me.
Amanda Prowse is amazing, she has painted Anna with a core of steel. At one point, when Anna was in state care, her roommate says that nothing fazes Anna, she is unbreakable. To which she replies
You can’t break something that is already smashed. I got broken when I was nine, and my mum died. And then my brother died too, and those fragments were crushed to dust
After reading this, I wanted nothing more than to hold Anna in my arms and join those pieces all back, promising her all the happiness, and a love who would make it seem as if it’s sunny, even on a rainy day. (as per her mother’s definition of true love, don’t we all want that!!)
Her letters to her future children Fifi and Fox (she calls them that at the age of 6) are so endearing and heart soothing. They are a comfort to read, to know how deeply Anna feels everything and to know she would make a good mother, she already loved them from her childhood, children born out of her imagination and love.
She meets Theo, marries him, and life throws curve balls one after the other. I wanted to cry with Anna, at the same time, Anna showed me what real courage is. Both Anna and Theo are complex characters, with their childhood experiences, formative years adding to the layers to their personality. There is so much in this book, that I can take each chapter and talk about it. A beautiful emotional book, like always by Amanda Prowse.
Ms. Prowse, this book hits me so hard with emotions, that I am hardly able to breathe, I am so full. I want to cry and I want to laugh. You showed me life’s problems and you showed me courage. And it would take me a long time to get over a girl named Anna and an author named Amanda Prowse.
Thank you!
This book narrates Anna’s story of life and the next one would be Theo’s. Amanda Prowse is the Queen of Emotions. Her words are always read with a sheen of tears over my eyes. Her description of Anna’s childhood, her deep grief on losing her mother and later her brother, had me shutting down the book and closing my eyes, till I could gather my emotions.
At one point, on reading about Anna’s childhood, I didn’t want to read, not because I was bored but because my heart was full. I just wanted to sit and cry, and not many books can bring out these emotions in me.
Amanda Prowse is amazing, she has painted Anna with a core of steel. At one point, when Anna was in state care, her roommate says that nothing fazes Anna, she is unbreakable. To which she replies
You can’t break something that is already smashed. I got broken when I was nine, and my mum died. And then my brother died too, and those fragments were crushed to dust
After reading this, I wanted nothing more than to hold Anna in my arms and join those pieces all back, promising her all the happiness, and a love who would make it seem as if it’s sunny, even on a rainy day. (as per her mother’s definition of true love, don’t we all want that!!)
Her letters to her future children Fifi and Fox (she calls them that at the age of 6) are so endearing and heart soothing. They are a comfort to read, to know how deeply Anna feels everything and to know she would make a good mother, she already loved them from her childhood, children born out of her imagination and love.
She meets Theo, marries him, and life throws curve balls one after the other. I wanted to cry with Anna, at the same time, Anna showed me what real courage is. Both Anna and Theo are complex characters, with their childhood experiences, formative years adding to the layers to their personality. There is so much in this book, that I can take each chapter and talk about it. A beautiful emotional book, like always by Amanda Prowse.
Ms. Prowse, this book hits me so hard with emotions, that I am hardly able to breathe, I am so full. I want to cry and I want to laugh. You showed me life’s problems and you showed me courage. And it would take me a long time to get over a girl named Anna and an author named Amanda Prowse.
Thank you!
February 3, 2018
Wow! The concept of two stories / one love is inspired, and being an author myself I was intrigued. In fact, I admit to settling into this book because I was curious about how the structure was going to work. Before I knew it, however, I'd been pulled into Anna's story and carried through to the end in two sittings by a true storyteller.
I only recently discovered Amanda Prowse. (I know! I know! But we have large rocks in Australia and I have obviously been living under one of them!) I am getting through her backlist, slowly, and finding every book riveting. (She makes it look so easy.) But there is something even more special about Anna's story that makes it stand out from the bunch. I actually felt like I was reading this book with my mouth frozen open most of the time -- I think because I was so emotionally invested in Anna's life (or because I wish I'd thought of structuring a novel in this way!!! ;) ) I've also discovered a new emotion while reading an Amanda Prowse novel. I'm calling it the 'laugh-cry' because that's how I reacted to so many scenes in this story. But then, when I read that 'DRIFTWOOD' analogy towards the end . . . Well, what can I say? Outstanding!
I'll be recommending this book far and wide while waiting impatiently to discover Theo's life. Waiting is going to be hard, Amanda, but I'm so glad Head of Zeus introduced me to you.
I only recently discovered Amanda Prowse. (I know! I know! But we have large rocks in Australia and I have obviously been living under one of them!) I am getting through her backlist, slowly, and finding every book riveting. (She makes it look so easy.) But there is something even more special about Anna's story that makes it stand out from the bunch. I actually felt like I was reading this book with my mouth frozen open most of the time -- I think because I was so emotionally invested in Anna's life (or because I wish I'd thought of structuring a novel in this way!!! ;) ) I've also discovered a new emotion while reading an Amanda Prowse novel. I'm calling it the 'laugh-cry' because that's how I reacted to so many scenes in this story. But then, when I read that 'DRIFTWOOD' analogy towards the end . . . Well, what can I say? Outstanding!
I'll be recommending this book far and wide while waiting impatiently to discover Theo's life. Waiting is going to be hard, Amanda, but I'm so glad Head of Zeus introduced me to you.
June 22, 2019
ANNA (ONE LOVE, TWO STORIES #1) is a standalone contemporary romance novel by Amanda Prowse. This is the first of two books making up a whole love story, Theo being the second. Each book to provide a different viewpoint, of the relationship, an unusual but different concept. This is Anna’s story.
Anna's story covers different timeframes: Anna as a child with her mother, her time leading up to and leaving her in a children's care home, and her life with Theo. Anna is a well-developed character that is easy to like and believe. Despite her sad upbringing, Anna feels like your friend. The author has made Anna more accepting and real, by giving her both strengths and weaknesses.
Amanda Prowse’s easy style of writing, and family drama make this novel a pleasure to read…but have the Kleenex close at hand. Anna’s story is an emotional read, that will break your heart and stay with you for some time.
Many thanks to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for my digital copy.
Anna's story covers different timeframes: Anna as a child with her mother, her time leading up to and leaving her in a children's care home, and her life with Theo. Anna is a well-developed character that is easy to like and believe. Despite her sad upbringing, Anna feels like your friend. The author has made Anna more accepting and real, by giving her both strengths and weaknesses.
Amanda Prowse’s easy style of writing, and family drama make this novel a pleasure to read…but have the Kleenex close at hand. Anna’s story is an emotional read, that will break your heart and stay with you for some time.
Many thanks to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for my digital copy.
January 18, 2018
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book, from the perfect writing of Amanda Prowse to the cover with its fabulous title, One love, Two stories. I open the first page and couldn't stop reading till the last.
The author's style of writing, hooks the reader from the start and takes them on the journey with her, her use of words has you feeling like you are there with her, so beware of having a load of different emotions poor out of you because this book hit them all. I laughed, cried and at one point felt pride for the main character Anna, and shouted out "you tell him, girl"
Anna just wants a normal, happy life. And this is what she gets the day she is born however this did last long and her world falls apart. The story starts by introducing the reader to Anna and her life as a little girl right up to Anna as an adult. Adult Anna she meets Theo and this is were the plot gets even better, both wanting love and happiness however both from very different lives with different struggles facing them.
This book doesn't just stop with Anna side; its clever plot runs through two books, the first being Anna side and the next book being Theo's. I can't wait to get my hand on the second book, though out Anna's book there are bit and pieces of Theo life that are left unanswered ready for the second part.
Amanda Prowse is such a strong writer and knows how to make her readers feel every word written, this book didn’t disappoint in anyway, for me it will go right to the top of my favourite reads.
5 *+
The author's style of writing, hooks the reader from the start and takes them on the journey with her, her use of words has you feeling like you are there with her, so beware of having a load of different emotions poor out of you because this book hit them all. I laughed, cried and at one point felt pride for the main character Anna, and shouted out "you tell him, girl"
Anna just wants a normal, happy life. And this is what she gets the day she is born however this did last long and her world falls apart. The story starts by introducing the reader to Anna and her life as a little girl right up to Anna as an adult. Adult Anna she meets Theo and this is were the plot gets even better, both wanting love and happiness however both from very different lives with different struggles facing them.
This book doesn't just stop with Anna side; its clever plot runs through two books, the first being Anna side and the next book being Theo's. I can't wait to get my hand on the second book, though out Anna's book there are bit and pieces of Theo life that are left unanswered ready for the second part.
Amanda Prowse is such a strong writer and knows how to make her readers feel every word written, this book didn’t disappoint in anyway, for me it will go right to the top of my favourite reads.
5 *+
April 5, 2018
Anna is a sweet, absorbing story about a young girl with such a sad start in life, and her battle to overcome her demons and fall in love - with Theo, the subject of the follow up to this story (this book is about Anna, book 2 is from Theo's point of view).
There are plenty of sad points to this story as well as some more uplifting parts which you can't help but smile at. The characters are convincing and, though some are definitely not likable, there are plenty of people you really do feel you can get behind (Anna's cousin is just brilliant and so lovely, in stark contrast to his parents). Anna herself is just lovely; she hasn't really got any 'edges' to her, she's just very sweet and kind. She's has had such a hard time and you can't help but feel for her, making you actually care about what happens to her.
The plot covers so many parts of life in general and so many different 'kinds' of people, and I loved reading about them all - from the people she met whilst in a children's home to Theo and his (slightly strange) family, as well as people from Anna's own family who she never got to meet growing up. They're all here!
The way Anna ends definitely left me wanting to read book 2, Theo, which will be released this month, and which will hopefully answer even more about Theo's earlier life. He's an equally interesting character and so I can see why Amanda Prowse has chosen to write a book from each of their perspectives - what a great idea!
There are plenty of sad points to this story as well as some more uplifting parts which you can't help but smile at. The characters are convincing and, though some are definitely not likable, there are plenty of people you really do feel you can get behind (Anna's cousin is just brilliant and so lovely, in stark contrast to his parents). Anna herself is just lovely; she hasn't really got any 'edges' to her, she's just very sweet and kind. She's has had such a hard time and you can't help but feel for her, making you actually care about what happens to her.
The plot covers so many parts of life in general and so many different 'kinds' of people, and I loved reading about them all - from the people she met whilst in a children's home to Theo and his (slightly strange) family, as well as people from Anna's own family who she never got to meet growing up. They're all here!
The way Anna ends definitely left me wanting to read book 2, Theo, which will be released this month, and which will hopefully answer even more about Theo's earlier life. He's an equally interesting character and so I can see why Amanda Prowse has chosen to write a book from each of their perspectives - what a great idea!
December 16, 2018
This is a story that is fully told between two novels. Anna’s story is the first book and then there is another one telling Theo’s story. This one will definitely have you running off to get Theo’s book.
Anna is just the most wonderful character. We get to meet her when she is just a little girl living with her mum and brother Joe. They don’t have much as a family but Anna is a loved little girl and she is happy. That all changes when her mother sadly dies.
We are taken on a journey of what life is like for Anna as a child into adulthood. I loved seeing the woman that Anna turns into with all her hopes and dreams. She is quite a quirky character with her little traits which made me an emotional wreck.
So many times through out the story I kept having to take a breather as my emotions were overwhelming. I was so absorbed in Anna’s life and what was happening to her and like a parent, I just wanted the best for her and for her just to be as happy as she was as a young child.
Anna’s story is an emotional page turner of a read. The characterisation was just superb and each character for me stands out in some way. It is definitely a book that will melt into your heart and stay with you. I can’t to wait read Theo’s story to see if the pair get their happy ever after. Brilliant book that wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
Anna is just the most wonderful character. We get to meet her when she is just a little girl living with her mum and brother Joe. They don’t have much as a family but Anna is a loved little girl and she is happy. That all changes when her mother sadly dies.
We are taken on a journey of what life is like for Anna as a child into adulthood. I loved seeing the woman that Anna turns into with all her hopes and dreams. She is quite a quirky character with her little traits which made me an emotional wreck.
So many times through out the story I kept having to take a breather as my emotions were overwhelming. I was so absorbed in Anna’s life and what was happening to her and like a parent, I just wanted the best for her and for her just to be as happy as she was as a young child.
Anna’s story is an emotional page turner of a read. The characterisation was just superb and each character for me stands out in some way. It is definitely a book that will melt into your heart and stay with you. I can’t to wait read Theo’s story to see if the pair get their happy ever after. Brilliant book that wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
April 29, 2019
DNF
A ... Awful
B .. bad
C .. cringe
D .. dead.
Everyone is dead.
Given the whole 'master of heartbreak' praise I saw for the author and the tag line about two stories, I thought this was going to be a story about the breakdown of a relationship. First we'd get Anna's perspective and since she's our protagonist we'd sympathize with her and take her word for what happened. Then our beliefs would be challenged by Theo's account in the second book. I had high hopes.
The reality is that we don't even meet Theo until half way through the book, the entire first half is dedicated to building a sob story for Anna. My heart didn't break for her because I knew what was going to happen every step of the way - it feels like most of the characters were written in just to add trauma to Anna's backstory.
At this point I thought that instead of the concept being 'two sides to every story', it was 'things happen for a reason'. I can't say whether or not that's true because I DNF-d it, but if it is then woooow that's a bad message 😬
CBA to find quotes but the two that really made me cringe were Anna being referred to as someone's 'bird' and her claim that the alphabet game is too complicated to explain.
A ... Awful
B .. bad
C .. cringe
D .. dead.
Everyone is dead.
Given the whole 'master of heartbreak' praise I saw for the author and the tag line about two stories, I thought this was going to be a story about the breakdown of a relationship. First we'd get Anna's perspective and since she's our protagonist we'd sympathize with her and take her word for what happened. Then our beliefs would be challenged by Theo's account in the second book. I had high hopes.
The reality is that we don't even meet Theo until half way through the book, the entire first half is dedicated to building a sob story for Anna. My heart didn't break for her because I knew what was going to happen every step of the way - it feels like most of the characters were written in just to add trauma to Anna's backstory.
At this point I thought that instead of the concept being 'two sides to every story', it was 'things happen for a reason'. I can't say whether or not that's true because I DNF-d it, but if it is then woooow that's a bad message 😬
CBA to find quotes but the two that really made me cringe were Anna being referred to as someone's 'bird' and her claim that the alphabet game is too complicated to explain.
April 10, 2018
I was really excited about this book, and I was pretty hooked when I started reading it. I loved seeing how Anna grew up, and the heartbreaks she had to go through. I especially loved the scenes with her mother, those were very sweet and touching. However, I kind of started losing interest when she turned into an adult. I kind of lost the connection I felt with her when she was a young girl. I was anxiously waiting on her to meet Theo, the love of her life. I thought the story would get better when that happened. But unfortunately it didn't. I didn't feel the love and connection between them. I even started skipping parts hoping it would get better. I kind of lost interest by then, however I forced myself to finish it just to find out how it ended. It had somewhat of a cliffhanger ending, which means I would have to read Theo to find out how their story will end. But I am not really interested, so I'll just leave it be for now. I did ADORE the letters/notes Anna wrote, those were definitely the highlight in my opinion.
April 6, 2018
I'm going to be in the minority on this book. I thought it was just ok. It was slow-paced for me and some parts of the story felt rushed. In the beginning I loved Anna. She's strong and brave and so loved. You can feel the love she has for her mum and brother. I did not get this same feeling for Theo. Supposedly this is about One Love, Two Stories. But I saw more of connection between Anna and her ex-boyfriend Ned than I did with Anna and Theo. And Theo didn't even make an appearance until almost 50% into the story! They met, then they were 2 months into dating, then they were engaged, then it was 3 days before the wedding and then their one year wedding anniversary. It felt rushed to me. By this time, Anna was getting annoying. And if you want to know about Theo's story, you have to read the next book because the author did not go into detail about his childhood besides him being born with money and ignored by his parents.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for a copy of Amanda Prowse's "Anna" in exchange of an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for a copy of Amanda Prowse's "Anna" in exchange of an honest review.
October 15, 2019
The story of Anna is a sad and an emotional one but with some happiness thrown in too. A mix of believable characters and a detailed storyline made for a very absorbing read.
March 16, 2025
Maybe my heads elsewhere today, I seem to be very much in the minority with my rating, and I don’t really feel inclined to read part 2, Theo.
I enjoyed Anna’s story, I’m usually a big cryer and the content really should’ve been tear inducing, but I felt I just plodded through.
Don’t mistake me. I didn’t hate it, I just didn’t get as much as I expected from the story.
The narration was nice!
Currently included with audible 🎧
I enjoyed Anna’s story, I’m usually a big cryer and the content really should’ve been tear inducing, but I felt I just plodded through.
Don’t mistake me. I didn’t hate it, I just didn’t get as much as I expected from the story.
The narration was nice!
Currently included with audible 🎧
May 20, 2018
Anna's mother doesn't have much money, but what she lacks in funds she makes up for in love. Anna knows her mother treasures her and she feels wanted and content. However, Anna's luck doesn't last long because her mother dies when Anna's only nine years old. Her brother tries to raise her, but he's an addict and it doesn't take long before he passes away as well. After a short stay with a cold hearted aunt Anna ends up in care, she's all alone, but promises herself she'll one day start her own family with children she loves as much as her mother loved her. She writes to her future children several times a year and loves them before they are even born.
Anna starts her adult life alone, but slowly friendships and relationships are becoming part of her world as well. When she meets Theo she knows she's found the one, but Theo is a complicated man. Theo's family has plenty of money, but his upbringing was chilly and loveless. Because of the difficulties in his early life Theo thinks he'll be a worthless father. Will staying with the man of her dreams mean Anna has to give up her biggest wish? She and Theo love each other very much, but will love be enough for them to make it as a couple?
Anna is a beautiful moving story. Anna's early childhood is ideal with much fun, plenty of love and many wonderful games. Anna can be herself and her mother is a true angel. Unfortunately Anna's mother dies way too early and Anna has to learn to take care of herself. She cherishes the days she had with her mother and remains positive even when life is incredibly tough. Anna is strong, capable and loving and she's a joy to be with. She's perfect for the troubled Theo, if only he'd open up. The walls around his heart aren't easy to break down and they're having a tough time together while they love each other deeply. I was curious to find out if they'd be able to make it and couldn't turn the pages quickly enough.
Amanda Prowse skillfully describes emotions and that makes all of her stories impressive. She manages to get to know her characters through and through and the reader gets the chance to become really close to them. It isn't hard to care about them after that and that's what I enjoy the most about her books. That includes Anna, I was genuinely interested about what would happen to her and loved each gorgeous layer of her story. The ending has made me extra eager to learn more about Theo and I really like the idea of a double love story. Anna is an excellent start of a fantastic duology and I can't wait to read Theo's half.
Anna starts her adult life alone, but slowly friendships and relationships are becoming part of her world as well. When she meets Theo she knows she's found the one, but Theo is a complicated man. Theo's family has plenty of money, but his upbringing was chilly and loveless. Because of the difficulties in his early life Theo thinks he'll be a worthless father. Will staying with the man of her dreams mean Anna has to give up her biggest wish? She and Theo love each other very much, but will love be enough for them to make it as a couple?
Anna is a beautiful moving story. Anna's early childhood is ideal with much fun, plenty of love and many wonderful games. Anna can be herself and her mother is a true angel. Unfortunately Anna's mother dies way too early and Anna has to learn to take care of herself. She cherishes the days she had with her mother and remains positive even when life is incredibly tough. Anna is strong, capable and loving and she's a joy to be with. She's perfect for the troubled Theo, if only he'd open up. The walls around his heart aren't easy to break down and they're having a tough time together while they love each other deeply. I was curious to find out if they'd be able to make it and couldn't turn the pages quickly enough.
Amanda Prowse skillfully describes emotions and that makes all of her stories impressive. She manages to get to know her characters through and through and the reader gets the chance to become really close to them. It isn't hard to care about them after that and that's what I enjoy the most about her books. That includes Anna, I was genuinely interested about what would happen to her and loved each gorgeous layer of her story. The ending has made me extra eager to learn more about Theo and I really like the idea of a double love story. Anna is an excellent start of a fantastic duology and I can't wait to read Theo's half.
April 6, 2018
I'm really in two minds about this book but I have been since this and Theo were announced. I can't fully explain it but two books showing the both sides of a love story should be ideal for me, but even having finished Anna, and having "met" Theo, I'm just not sure I want to read the next book.
I think part of it is although I liked Anna, and absolutely was hooked reading her childhood and the tougher parts of her life, I just didn't like who she became with the love of her life.
Don't get me wrong while I was able t concentrate on the book, I felt the same pull I usually get when reading a book by this author, utter amazement at great the writing is, being drawn into the story and really believing in the characters that they are real people.
Although I had mixed feelings towards Anna and Theo, the supporting cast were fabulous, I don't really want to name them as to give them context may give away parts of the story that are best discovered for yourself, but there are memorable characters from each section of Anna's past.
The first half of the story brings us Anna's life from age 6 all the way up current day, and we visit each age for a period of time, so get a feel for Anna at various stages of her early life. She had one tough childhood which I wouldn't wish on anyone, and the one thing she is craving the whole time is her own family.
I absolutely love the intermittent letters to Fifi and Fox, and also Anna's alphabet game, both of which give a good indication as to elements of her personality.
There were a few occasions during the book, including once while I was on public transport when I was on the verge of tears while reading this. At points it definitely gave me the feels, while at others I was wondering why I wasn't feeling the need to read this in one sitting.
No doubt though that this is very good book, from an extremely talented author, I just think I may not have been in the right mind set for this particular story when I read it.
Thank you to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
I think part of it is although I liked Anna, and absolutely was hooked reading her childhood and the tougher parts of her life, I just didn't like who she became with the love of her life.
Don't get me wrong while I was able t concentrate on the book, I felt the same pull I usually get when reading a book by this author, utter amazement at great the writing is, being drawn into the story and really believing in the characters that they are real people.
Although I had mixed feelings towards Anna and Theo, the supporting cast were fabulous, I don't really want to name them as to give them context may give away parts of the story that are best discovered for yourself, but there are memorable characters from each section of Anna's past.
The first half of the story brings us Anna's life from age 6 all the way up current day, and we visit each age for a period of time, so get a feel for Anna at various stages of her early life. She had one tough childhood which I wouldn't wish on anyone, and the one thing she is craving the whole time is her own family.
I absolutely love the intermittent letters to Fifi and Fox, and also Anna's alphabet game, both of which give a good indication as to elements of her personality.
There were a few occasions during the book, including once while I was on public transport when I was on the verge of tears while reading this. At points it definitely gave me the feels, while at others I was wondering why I wasn't feeling the need to read this in one sitting.
No doubt though that this is very good book, from an extremely talented author, I just think I may not have been in the right mind set for this particular story when I read it.
Thank you to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
February 13, 2018
I actually read 85% of this book in one sitting, last night. I was so absorbed in Anna and Theol that I couldn't go to sleep. I adored this story. It haunts me and broke me into a million pieces.
I always identify in some way with the female characters in Amanda's books and Anna was no exception. Her tragic childhood was heartbreaking but it was her adult story that tore at me more. She is so real, raw and pure, that she made me cry huge gulping sobs. And I have to do it all again when I read Theo's story.
I always identify in some way with the female characters in Amanda's books and Anna was no exception. Her tragic childhood was heartbreaking but it was her adult story that tore at me more. She is so real, raw and pure, that she made me cry huge gulping sobs. And I have to do it all again when I read Theo's story.
January 28, 2018
Heart wrenching story of Anna and Theo, two people who come from very different lives and deserve some love and happiness.
Utterly fabulous, I couldn’t put this book down. Read with a lump in my throat but so so good.
Amanda Prowse is on fire! I can’t wait to read Theo’s side of the story... keep your tissues handy, you may need them if you’re usually reduced to tears by this fabulous author
5*
Utterly fabulous, I couldn’t put this book down. Read with a lump in my throat but so so good.
Amanda Prowse is on fire! I can’t wait to read Theo’s side of the story... keep your tissues handy, you may need them if you’re usually reduced to tears by this fabulous author
5*
January 21, 2018
Wow Amanda Prowse you have done it again ....a book of loss and love told beautifully in Anna’s words .Amanda’s style of writing is a joy to read .and she never fails to draw you into her stories and make the characters jump off the page . This was Anna’s story and I wait eagerly to read Theo’s . Once again an easy 5⭐️. My thanks to the publisher and to Amanda for giving me the opportunity to read
February 19, 2018
As soon as I heard that Amanda Prowse was doing something a little bit different with her next book I was desperate to read it as I was intrigued by the idea of One Love, Two Stories. Then I saw the gorgeous covers of both Anna and Theo and fell in love with them, impressed that both covers can actually be put together so they make a full scene! And it’s the same with the books themselves, on their own they are complete stories but put them together and you will see the bigger picture-what a great concept! And as they are written by the woman called the “queen of the domestic drama” then you just know that you’re going to be taken on an emotional journey into the lives of these characters. Book one is called Anna and it was one of my most anticipated reads of 2018 so would it live up to my expectations? Not only did it live up to them but this book totally EXCEEDED them! I absolutely loved Anna and I’m now on countdown until I can get my hands on Theo!
I became very quickly involved in Anna’s life. I immediately took to the young girl we first meet, who is unaware that her life is about to change forever. Her relationship with her mother was just so joyful to watch but I was always mentally preparing myself for what was about to happen next. So chapter two had the tears flowing from me when Anna’s life fell apart. She coped as best she could for one so young but when further tragedies occur, this thoughtful and kind hearted little girl ends up in the care system. She has ways of coping with her anxieties, one of which made me smile as it’s similar to a method taught to me as a child that I still use to this day to help me sleep. This young girl melted my heart and I just wanted to mother her myself and keep her safe from harm. Amanda Prowse has created such a likeable and sympathetic character that you can’t help but root for her as she goes through the care system and out the other side. And although a sense of loneliness follows her, she seems to attract loyalty in those few friends that she does make. But my favourite side of Anna was the Anna that truly came to life in the letters she wrote throughout her story. These very poignant communications showed an Anna full of hope for her future, a side of her that was positive even when everything around her was falling apart.
Although I became completely engrossed in Anna’s life, I was always looking forward to the meeting that I knew was eventually going to come-the moment that she met Theo. He was a slightly more closed book than Anna and, although we do get an insight into his own past difficulties, I’m sure that we will have the gaps filled in when we get to book two. There was certainly a “cliffhanger” element to Anna that means that the next book should hopefully provide a happy ever after for this couple but I also know that this author often brings a gritty realism to her relationships and that the path to happiness never runs as smoothly as we would like.
I make no secret of the fact that I adore this authors books and have read them all! She brings out emotions in me that I didn’t know I had as she tackles dilemmas that can sometimes be extremely difficult to read about. But these highly emotive subjects are always so intricately handled by Amanda’s wonderfully engaging prose. Anna is just so beautifully written and the emotions of the characters so perfectly expressed that I was often moved to tears. In fact, I had a tissue permanently in my hand as a precaution and it was well used so be warned!
Amanda Prowse really knows how to engage with her readers and because of that, her characters are always very relatable. I find that the older I get and the more life experiences I have had, the more I appreciate just how good she is at understanding and conveying the problems facing women and their families in this current social climate. Anna and Theo may come from totally different backgrounds but both are looking for that unconditional love they were denied as children and I’m keeping my fingers crossed that book two brings them the happiness that they both deserve.
Absolute perfection from the wonderful Amanda Prowse and highly recommended by me!
I became very quickly involved in Anna’s life. I immediately took to the young girl we first meet, who is unaware that her life is about to change forever. Her relationship with her mother was just so joyful to watch but I was always mentally preparing myself for what was about to happen next. So chapter two had the tears flowing from me when Anna’s life fell apart. She coped as best she could for one so young but when further tragedies occur, this thoughtful and kind hearted little girl ends up in the care system. She has ways of coping with her anxieties, one of which made me smile as it’s similar to a method taught to me as a child that I still use to this day to help me sleep. This young girl melted my heart and I just wanted to mother her myself and keep her safe from harm. Amanda Prowse has created such a likeable and sympathetic character that you can’t help but root for her as she goes through the care system and out the other side. And although a sense of loneliness follows her, she seems to attract loyalty in those few friends that she does make. But my favourite side of Anna was the Anna that truly came to life in the letters she wrote throughout her story. These very poignant communications showed an Anna full of hope for her future, a side of her that was positive even when everything around her was falling apart.
Although I became completely engrossed in Anna’s life, I was always looking forward to the meeting that I knew was eventually going to come-the moment that she met Theo. He was a slightly more closed book than Anna and, although we do get an insight into his own past difficulties, I’m sure that we will have the gaps filled in when we get to book two. There was certainly a “cliffhanger” element to Anna that means that the next book should hopefully provide a happy ever after for this couple but I also know that this author often brings a gritty realism to her relationships and that the path to happiness never runs as smoothly as we would like.
I make no secret of the fact that I adore this authors books and have read them all! She brings out emotions in me that I didn’t know I had as she tackles dilemmas that can sometimes be extremely difficult to read about. But these highly emotive subjects are always so intricately handled by Amanda’s wonderfully engaging prose. Anna is just so beautifully written and the emotions of the characters so perfectly expressed that I was often moved to tears. In fact, I had a tissue permanently in my hand as a precaution and it was well used so be warned!
Amanda Prowse really knows how to engage with her readers and because of that, her characters are always very relatable. I find that the older I get and the more life experiences I have had, the more I appreciate just how good she is at understanding and conveying the problems facing women and their families in this current social climate. Anna and Theo may come from totally different backgrounds but both are looking for that unconditional love they were denied as children and I’m keeping my fingers crossed that book two brings them the happiness that they both deserve.
Absolute perfection from the wonderful Amanda Prowse and highly recommended by me!
January 27, 2018
Anna’s perfect childhood is about to implode.
I have always adored Amanda Prowse’s books and began to wonder if I was being over generous in my praise of them because I expect to love them. This time, before reading Anna I was determined to be stony hearted and absolutely dispassionate. Huh! That lasted about three pages before I was in tears and subsumed by the overwhelming emotion of the way Amanda Prowse writes. I have no idea how she does it, but she takes a reader’s hand and leads them into the most affecting and emotional world they can possibly imagine. Despite all my attempts to do otherwise, I just loved this book. I didn’t so much read it as live it.
Anna’s world may initially seem unusually tragic, but I have met the Anna’s of the world through my profession and her portrayal is so realistic. She is a true heroine of the modern age. I have no children of my own and don’t especially like children but Anna’s letters to her imagined children of the future left me reeling with emotion – just like all Amanda Prowse’s prose.
Apart from the fact that this is a magnificent story, with a brilliant plot, I think what appeals to me so much about Anna is the social elements. Amanda Prowse explores the way in which our paths can be altered by circumstance and fate and how we can be shaped or destroyed by those events. Through the pages of Anna we meet every echelon of society, realistically portrayed. I love the presentation of the need for identity, to belong and to have family – in whatever guise that may present itself, so that reading Anna feels like looking into the soul of humanity and understanding it better.
The way Anna develops as a person and her utter realism is brilliantly handled. I think it’s the realistic dialogue that really adds to the feeling that you’re not reading a book, but you’re a fly on the wall of real people’s lives. As I finished reading and put down Anna I felt drained, tearful and simultaneously impassioned. I am utterly desperate to know Theo’s side of the story and can’t wait to read about him in more depth.
Rather than feel I have overpraised Amanda Prowse’s writing in the past, reading Anna has left me feeling I have been inadequate in conveying what an emotional and skilful writer she is. Anna has invaded my heart and is lodged there permanently. I think Anna may be one of her best books yet.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2018/01/27/...
I have always adored Amanda Prowse’s books and began to wonder if I was being over generous in my praise of them because I expect to love them. This time, before reading Anna I was determined to be stony hearted and absolutely dispassionate. Huh! That lasted about three pages before I was in tears and subsumed by the overwhelming emotion of the way Amanda Prowse writes. I have no idea how she does it, but she takes a reader’s hand and leads them into the most affecting and emotional world they can possibly imagine. Despite all my attempts to do otherwise, I just loved this book. I didn’t so much read it as live it.
Anna’s world may initially seem unusually tragic, but I have met the Anna’s of the world through my profession and her portrayal is so realistic. She is a true heroine of the modern age. I have no children of my own and don’t especially like children but Anna’s letters to her imagined children of the future left me reeling with emotion – just like all Amanda Prowse’s prose.
Apart from the fact that this is a magnificent story, with a brilliant plot, I think what appeals to me so much about Anna is the social elements. Amanda Prowse explores the way in which our paths can be altered by circumstance and fate and how we can be shaped or destroyed by those events. Through the pages of Anna we meet every echelon of society, realistically portrayed. I love the presentation of the need for identity, to belong and to have family – in whatever guise that may present itself, so that reading Anna feels like looking into the soul of humanity and understanding it better.
The way Anna develops as a person and her utter realism is brilliantly handled. I think it’s the realistic dialogue that really adds to the feeling that you’re not reading a book, but you’re a fly on the wall of real people’s lives. As I finished reading and put down Anna I felt drained, tearful and simultaneously impassioned. I am utterly desperate to know Theo’s side of the story and can’t wait to read about him in more depth.
Rather than feel I have overpraised Amanda Prowse’s writing in the past, reading Anna has left me feeling I have been inadequate in conveying what an emotional and skilful writer she is. Anna has invaded my heart and is lodged there permanently. I think Anna may be one of her best books yet.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2018/01/27/...
March 8, 2018
Anna Cole is one of those children who is “quiet with a busy head”. She has had so many things happen in her life and this story takes you through those events with her. Theo has had a different upbringing to Anna, he has barriers. Can they help to heal each other and heal their pasts scars to move on in the future?
Oh this is an absolute dream to read. There are so many things that are just so right about this story, Amanda has the wonderful ability to just envelop the reader in the story, I put the world on hold when I read this book, I was totally engrossed from start to finish and in one sitting.
There are some beautiful lines in this story, but one really struck a chord with me and goes some way to explaining the emotion that is within the pages,this is from a conversation that Anna has when she is older and is embarking on he next stage of her life. ” I got broken when I was nine….. and those fragments were crushed to dust. So you’re right, nothing can break me because I am already broken. I am dust.” Anna comes across as a quiet and vulnerable character, but in fact she has an inner strength. She has seen others follow the easy road of drink and drug abuse but she has never seen that as an option. She is one of those silent battlers in life and she is loyal to the handful of friends that she has.
Things change for Anna when she meets Theo, is he “The One”, that special person who will share her life, her dreams and will grow old beside her? He has his own set of emotional history, and Anna definitely helps him. Her character is strongest in the relationship while Theo is the more demure and he does has moments impulsiveness. What they want out of life is slightly different. When secrets and truths are told, one reveals all while the other holds a little something back.
This story is completely engrossing, it has such an honest, insightful and believable feel to it as you are taken into the lives of the characters and one that will stay with me for quite a while. I am so impatient to read “Theo” the next part of this story. This is a highly recommended read from me, turn your phone off, lock the doors and settle down for a few hours for an outstanding read.
Oh this is an absolute dream to read. There are so many things that are just so right about this story, Amanda has the wonderful ability to just envelop the reader in the story, I put the world on hold when I read this book, I was totally engrossed from start to finish and in one sitting.
There are some beautiful lines in this story, but one really struck a chord with me and goes some way to explaining the emotion that is within the pages,this is from a conversation that Anna has when she is older and is embarking on he next stage of her life. ” I got broken when I was nine….. and those fragments were crushed to dust. So you’re right, nothing can break me because I am already broken. I am dust.” Anna comes across as a quiet and vulnerable character, but in fact she has an inner strength. She has seen others follow the easy road of drink and drug abuse but she has never seen that as an option. She is one of those silent battlers in life and she is loyal to the handful of friends that she has.
Things change for Anna when she meets Theo, is he “The One”, that special person who will share her life, her dreams and will grow old beside her? He has his own set of emotional history, and Anna definitely helps him. Her character is strongest in the relationship while Theo is the more demure and he does has moments impulsiveness. What they want out of life is slightly different. When secrets and truths are told, one reveals all while the other holds a little something back.
This story is completely engrossing, it has such an honest, insightful and believable feel to it as you are taken into the lives of the characters and one that will stay with me for quite a while. I am so impatient to read “Theo” the next part of this story. This is a highly recommended read from me, turn your phone off, lock the doors and settle down for a few hours for an outstanding read.
September 4, 2023
I’m not a big fan of love stories/ chic lits, but wanted to read this as I have read another of this authors books and enjoyed it.
I nearly gave up after 50 pages as I was getting bored and the writing style was driving me a bit nuts but I persevered and actually enjoyed it.
A lot of reviews have said ….make sure you read with a box of tissues, I do consider myself a bit sentimental but I didn’t get that with this book.
Not sure if I’ll be rushing out to find the second book either.
I nearly gave up after 50 pages as I was getting bored and the writing style was driving me a bit nuts but I persevered and actually enjoyed it.
A lot of reviews have said ….make sure you read with a box of tissues, I do consider myself a bit sentimental but I didn’t get that with this book.
Not sure if I’ll be rushing out to find the second book either.
April 7, 2018
I woke up last night with cramp (no this doesn't have anything to do with the book!) and decided to go downstairs and read. I read this wonderful book in one sitting and it left me wanting more!
After Anna's mother and brother both died, Anna goes into care. This is her story from age 6 - 18.
I think that's enough of the spoilers, so I will say nothing more than 'Please hurry up and write the next in the series Amanda Prowse!'
After Anna's mother and brother both died, Anna goes into care. This is her story from age 6 - 18.
I think that's enough of the spoilers, so I will say nothing more than 'Please hurry up and write the next in the series Amanda Prowse!'
March 2, 2018
‘There are two sides to every story
This is Anna’s story’
Amanda Prowse has done something a little different this time. Anna tells the story of ‘One Love……Two Stories’ from Anna’s perspective but in April we will get the opportunity to read it from the other side, we get to read Theo’s story.
Amanda Prowse has been dubbed the queen of emotional drama, with all her novels dealing very sensitively with life and all it’s ups & downs. Anna is her latest novel that I have no doubt will pull on the toughest of heartstrings.
Read on for my thoughts on Anna…
Anna Cole is a small girl with big dreams. Sharing a flat with her mother and big brother Joe, Anna is happy. Oblivious to the immediate world around her, Anna is wrapped up in the warmth of her mother’s love, a happy little girl with little concern for anything but her teddy bears and playtime. But Anna’s world is about to change in a way she could never have imagined. Experiencing life like no child should ever have to, Anna ends up in care, lost and alone in a world that has stolen all her happiness.
Anna Cole withdraws into a shell, avoiding relationships, avoiding the possibility of loving and losing again.
‘Nothing can break me because I’m already broken. I’m dust.’
As she grows up she makes a decision that her life will not be like her mother’s. Only too aware that life can change in a moment, Anna is determined to apply herself to her studies, get a job and be financially safe from the hardship and poverty that is only ever a stone’s throw away.
Anna finds what she thinks is love with Ned. Ned is everything she needs. He comes from a warm and welcoming home, he has ambition and to Anna he could be the one. She has fallen for the warmth extended by his family and what the whole package offers her, but as time passes, she comes to understand that Ned is not where her future lies.
One day, in a very unexpected situation, Anna meets Theo. Theo meets Anna. Cupid strikes it’s bow and Anna knows, she knows with absolute certainty that Theo is it.
And so begins a love story between two people who are made for each other. Anna is ecstatically happy and cannot believe that she has found her mate, her life is almost complete…..
When Anna was very small she started writing a diary to two imaginary characters, Fifi and Fox. In Anna’s mind these were her future children she was writing to. As the years passed and when life got particularly challenging, Anna would always turn to her diary for reassurance and comfort. They were her future. Fifi and Fox were part of Anna.
Life is not ever easy for Anna, but with Theo she learns how to love herself again. She finds her voice. As the days pass, she sees a bright future ahead filled with love and laughter. But Anna soon comes to realise that Theo is holding back a little. Theo has his own story to tell. Anna struggles between her rediscovered passion for life with Theo and this invisible wall that she cannot seem to navigate around or over.
Can love conquer all? Can Anna find true happiness with Theo?
Amanda Prowse is, at this stage, the go-to writer for family driven novels. She writes from the heart. In many cases she writes from her own personal experiences. Amanda Prowse has gained a huge following on social media for her very personal and personable interaction with folk. All are obviously very special to Amanda and I truly believe these two novels, Anna and Theo, are Amanda’s way of giving something back to her loyal fans. A love story will always win hearts and Theo and Anna’s story is no different.
Will Theo and Anna’s love for each other be strong enough to survive?
With each having their own stories to tell, we will have to wait until Theo’s story is published in April 2018 to find out…
This is Anna’s story’
Amanda Prowse has done something a little different this time. Anna tells the story of ‘One Love……Two Stories’ from Anna’s perspective but in April we will get the opportunity to read it from the other side, we get to read Theo’s story.
Amanda Prowse has been dubbed the queen of emotional drama, with all her novels dealing very sensitively with life and all it’s ups & downs. Anna is her latest novel that I have no doubt will pull on the toughest of heartstrings.
Read on for my thoughts on Anna…
Anna Cole is a small girl with big dreams. Sharing a flat with her mother and big brother Joe, Anna is happy. Oblivious to the immediate world around her, Anna is wrapped up in the warmth of her mother’s love, a happy little girl with little concern for anything but her teddy bears and playtime. But Anna’s world is about to change in a way she could never have imagined. Experiencing life like no child should ever have to, Anna ends up in care, lost and alone in a world that has stolen all her happiness.
Anna Cole withdraws into a shell, avoiding relationships, avoiding the possibility of loving and losing again.
‘Nothing can break me because I’m already broken. I’m dust.’
As she grows up she makes a decision that her life will not be like her mother’s. Only too aware that life can change in a moment, Anna is determined to apply herself to her studies, get a job and be financially safe from the hardship and poverty that is only ever a stone’s throw away.
Anna finds what she thinks is love with Ned. Ned is everything she needs. He comes from a warm and welcoming home, he has ambition and to Anna he could be the one. She has fallen for the warmth extended by his family and what the whole package offers her, but as time passes, she comes to understand that Ned is not where her future lies.
One day, in a very unexpected situation, Anna meets Theo. Theo meets Anna. Cupid strikes it’s bow and Anna knows, she knows with absolute certainty that Theo is it.
And so begins a love story between two people who are made for each other. Anna is ecstatically happy and cannot believe that she has found her mate, her life is almost complete…..
When Anna was very small she started writing a diary to two imaginary characters, Fifi and Fox. In Anna’s mind these were her future children she was writing to. As the years passed and when life got particularly challenging, Anna would always turn to her diary for reassurance and comfort. They were her future. Fifi and Fox were part of Anna.
Life is not ever easy for Anna, but with Theo she learns how to love herself again. She finds her voice. As the days pass, she sees a bright future ahead filled with love and laughter. But Anna soon comes to realise that Theo is holding back a little. Theo has his own story to tell. Anna struggles between her rediscovered passion for life with Theo and this invisible wall that she cannot seem to navigate around or over.
Can love conquer all? Can Anna find true happiness with Theo?
Amanda Prowse is, at this stage, the go-to writer for family driven novels. She writes from the heart. In many cases she writes from her own personal experiences. Amanda Prowse has gained a huge following on social media for her very personal and personable interaction with folk. All are obviously very special to Amanda and I truly believe these two novels, Anna and Theo, are Amanda’s way of giving something back to her loyal fans. A love story will always win hearts and Theo and Anna’s story is no different.
Will Theo and Anna’s love for each other be strong enough to survive?
With each having their own stories to tell, we will have to wait until Theo’s story is published in April 2018 to find out…
February 1, 2018
It's always a pleasure to be asked to read and review one of Amanda Prowse's books and I very much enjoyed reading this one about Anna. It is the first of the One Love, Two Stories series and is published next month, to be followed by Theo in April.
Anna tells the story of Anna Cole, from when she was very young living with her mum and older brother Joe. Despite times being hard for her mum, she has a very happy childhood and knows that above all she is loved. By the time she is 13 though, Anna has known more heartache than you would want any child to bear. Anna is so brave and is determined to make a success of her life, despite the difficult circumstances she has been in. More than anything, she wants to create a loving family of her own. And that's where Theo comes in. Theo could not have had a more different childhood from Anna's, though we only get glimpses of it in this book. He is from a privileged background, went to boarding school, lives in a large expensive house in an affluent suburb of London and money is no object for him. Yet he and Anna are perfect for each other. This is Anna's version of their love story.
As always, Amanda Prowse shows her talent for writing an emotionally engaging story. My heart went out to Anna who had such a rough time as a child yet somehow managed to come through everything as a strong, independent and caring young woman. The author captures emotions so beautifully that you can easily empathise with her characters, even if you haven't gone through the same experiences. All Anna wants is to be loved and to love her own family in return. I really felt for her as for one reason or another, the possibility seemed to be further away than ever. I loved the letters she wrote throughout the book, so touching when she was a child becoming even more poignant when she was an adult.
Without giving anything away, the story feels a little unresolved and I am now really looking forward to reading the story from Theo's perspective to see if it will be resolved. I am keen to find out about his childhood which, though privileged, seems to have been unhappy. It will also be interesting to read about the relationship from Theo's point of view.
Anna is another heart-warming yet heart-wrenching story from Amanda Prowse - keep your hankies to hand, you may well need them!
Anna tells the story of Anna Cole, from when she was very young living with her mum and older brother Joe. Despite times being hard for her mum, she has a very happy childhood and knows that above all she is loved. By the time she is 13 though, Anna has known more heartache than you would want any child to bear. Anna is so brave and is determined to make a success of her life, despite the difficult circumstances she has been in. More than anything, she wants to create a loving family of her own. And that's where Theo comes in. Theo could not have had a more different childhood from Anna's, though we only get glimpses of it in this book. He is from a privileged background, went to boarding school, lives in a large expensive house in an affluent suburb of London and money is no object for him. Yet he and Anna are perfect for each other. This is Anna's version of their love story.
As always, Amanda Prowse shows her talent for writing an emotionally engaging story. My heart went out to Anna who had such a rough time as a child yet somehow managed to come through everything as a strong, independent and caring young woman. The author captures emotions so beautifully that you can easily empathise with her characters, even if you haven't gone through the same experiences. All Anna wants is to be loved and to love her own family in return. I really felt for her as for one reason or another, the possibility seemed to be further away than ever. I loved the letters she wrote throughout the book, so touching when she was a child becoming even more poignant when she was an adult.
Without giving anything away, the story feels a little unresolved and I am now really looking forward to reading the story from Theo's perspective to see if it will be resolved. I am keen to find out about his childhood which, though privileged, seems to have been unhappy. It will also be interesting to read about the relationship from Theo's point of view.
Anna is another heart-warming yet heart-wrenching story from Amanda Prowse - keep your hankies to hand, you may well need them!
April 1, 2018
The concept of splitting this story into two separate books is genius. It could so easily have been written as one book, yet I don't think the reader would get half as much detail and enjoyment had it been published that way.
The feelings and experiences that Anna went through which formed her personality over the years from the love-filled years of her early childhood through the tragic loss of her family members and subsequent move to the Midlands all gave Anna tough lessons in life.
Things could have gone in such a different direction for Anna had her mum not have taught her that love makes you feel good. Her friend Shania didn't have that background and but for Anna showing her that life could be different if you choose it to be she too could have ended in a much different place.
The alphabet game - a simple yet effective distraction technique for coping with anxiety - helped Anna through many tricky situations in life and it was the little things like that which she taught Theo which helped him see life differently and that love can get you through tough times.
Ultimately though, Theo's problems proved too deep seated even for Anna to solve and, without giving too much away, an emotional space built up which sadly became a physical distance between the couple. I will be very interested to find out the detail of Theo's story to understand why Anna's tale ended the way it did.
Theo is a very closed person so very little has been shared with us throughout this book which leaves us plenty to learn in the follow up novel which is due out very soon.
A brilliant concept of a story which has been executed to perfection. Huge congratulations to Amanda Prowse - I have laughed, cried and been tormented by the unfairness of life throughout this realistic book.
The feelings and experiences that Anna went through which formed her personality over the years from the love-filled years of her early childhood through the tragic loss of her family members and subsequent move to the Midlands all gave Anna tough lessons in life.
Things could have gone in such a different direction for Anna had her mum not have taught her that love makes you feel good. Her friend Shania didn't have that background and but for Anna showing her that life could be different if you choose it to be she too could have ended in a much different place.
The alphabet game - a simple yet effective distraction technique for coping with anxiety - helped Anna through many tricky situations in life and it was the little things like that which she taught Theo which helped him see life differently and that love can get you through tough times.
Ultimately though, Theo's problems proved too deep seated even for Anna to solve and, without giving too much away, an emotional space built up which sadly became a physical distance between the couple. I will be very interested to find out the detail of Theo's story to understand why Anna's tale ended the way it did.
Theo is a very closed person so very little has been shared with us throughout this book which leaves us plenty to learn in the follow up novel which is due out very soon.
A brilliant concept of a story which has been executed to perfection. Huge congratulations to Amanda Prowse - I have laughed, cried and been tormented by the unfairness of life throughout this realistic book.
March 2, 2018
Another amazing piece of writing by Amanda. Amanda has amazing knack of bringing her characters to life and you can relate to them.
For the first nine years of Anna's life were happy, living with her mum and older brother. Anna was a oblivious to the fact that there was very little money around in their small flat.
Anna's world comes tumbling down when her mum dies unexpectedly followed by her brother a few years later.
Her maternal aunt and family take her to live with them but after awhile Anna decides that the situation is no longer bearable and runs away in search of her black cabbie dad; Michael, who she's never met.
Anna spends the rest of her childhood in care and on leaving the establishment she moves in to a small flat.
This is a turning point for Anna and the reader. We walk with Anna through her life's up and downs: friendships, relationships and her shear determination to find her dad.
Throughout the book Anna plays the alphabet game also writes letters to her future children; these bring her comfort and connects her to her mum.
Anna's character becomes so real to the reader, that you want her to find her happy ever after.
Thank you Amanda for penning another great book and I can't wait to read Theo's story.
For the first nine years of Anna's life were happy, living with her mum and older brother. Anna was a oblivious to the fact that there was very little money around in their small flat.
Anna's world comes tumbling down when her mum dies unexpectedly followed by her brother a few years later.
Her maternal aunt and family take her to live with them but after awhile Anna decides that the situation is no longer bearable and runs away in search of her black cabbie dad; Michael, who she's never met.
Anna spends the rest of her childhood in care and on leaving the establishment she moves in to a small flat.
This is a turning point for Anna and the reader. We walk with Anna through her life's up and downs: friendships, relationships and her shear determination to find her dad.
Throughout the book Anna plays the alphabet game also writes letters to her future children; these bring her comfort and connects her to her mum.
Anna's character becomes so real to the reader, that you want her to find her happy ever after.
Thank you Amanda for penning another great book and I can't wait to read Theo's story.
January 17, 2018
I have now read the whole of this amazing book and couldn’t put it down. The prequel takes you on a journey with Anna from the age of 6, living happily with her mother and older brother, to age 18 where she is about to leave ‘Home’ and start a new job and living on her own. Due to her history she is keen to meet ‘the one’ and create her own secure family unit, and to give her future kids the love she remembers as a child. She meets Theo in a lift. Equally with a difficult childhood but in quite a different way.
What is so unique is that there is another book ready to be released - Theo’s story. We will meet him as a child, find out his history, and then take you through his version of the meeting with Anna, and their relationship.
I binge read Anna’s story, loved every word, and can’t wait to read the story from Theo’s perspective.
Well done Amanda Prowse, another excellent book - or 2!
What is so unique is that there is another book ready to be released - Theo’s story. We will meet him as a child, find out his history, and then take you through his version of the meeting with Anna, and their relationship.
I binge read Anna’s story, loved every word, and can’t wait to read the story from Theo’s perspective.
Well done Amanda Prowse, another excellent book - or 2!
January 17, 2018
Absolutely loved the latest gem by Amanda Prowse, as always it is full of love and emotion. Anna is a wonderful creation and she comes to life in this book, she is a character that jumps of the pages and takes you on the journey with her from the very 1st page!
I am so excited to see what comes next when reading Theo, I felt every page of this book and how it came to life as Anna's story unfolded and as her life became entwined with Theo.
A true master piece with amazing characters and so much love loss and emotion within every page. A highly recommended read that I can't wait to see succeed in 2018!
I am so excited to see what comes next when reading Theo, I felt every page of this book and how it came to life as Anna's story unfolded and as her life became entwined with Theo.
A true master piece with amazing characters and so much love loss and emotion within every page. A highly recommended read that I can't wait to see succeed in 2018!
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