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The Dissent of Annie Lang
Impulsive, brave and lovable, Annie Lang is a truly memorable heroine.
‘My story starts and ends at railway stations, though of course I can’t know this yet as I clamber off the boat-train at Victoria that warm May afternoon... ‘ Growing up in a strict religious family between the wars, Annie Lang wasn’t convinced that Jesus was such a great friend to little children. Or why would he have snatched away her lovely mother when she was only six? Witness to disturbing events that no one can explain, Annie is confused and sister Bea can’t help. Six years on and student Annie returns from France to find her brother in the local mental hospital, her father rarely home and her friend and Sunday School teacher missing. With the help of her childhood diary Annie turns detective to try and understand the past. Her journey leads to a discovery that she believes will ruin all their lives, unless they can somehow atone for what has happened. Impulsive, brave and lovable, Annie Lang is formidable when she takes matters into her own hands
‘My story starts and ends at railway stations, though of course I can’t know this yet as I clamber off the boat-train at Victoria that warm May afternoon... ‘ Growing up in a strict religious family between the wars, Annie Lang wasn’t convinced that Jesus was such a great friend to little children. Or why would he have snatched away her lovely mother when she was only six? Witness to disturbing events that no one can explain, Annie is confused and sister Bea can’t help. Six years on and student Annie returns from France to find her brother in the local mental hospital, her father rarely home and her friend and Sunday School teacher missing. With the help of her childhood diary Annie turns detective to try and understand the past. Her journey leads to a discovery that she believes will ruin all their lives, unless they can somehow atone for what has happened. Impulsive, brave and lovable, Annie Lang is formidable when she takes matters into her own hands
341 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 19, 2018
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April 24, 2022
The Dissent of Annie Lang by Ros Franey, narrated by Joanna Ruiz
Right away, due to the excellent narration by Joanna Ruiz, I felt like I knew Annie Lang. Creative, precocious, smart, inquisitive, persistent, impulsive, and loyal, Annie Lang gives the impression of having been fueled by too much sugar and caffeine, such is her energy level, running thoughts and worries. She has so much to say that she can't get the words out fast enough, all the while having to restrain herself constantly because of the obvious displeasure of adults around her. Is it a wonder she bubbles over after an hour, day, week of trying to act the way that is expected of her?
Much of Annie's early life is clouded in mystery because she was too young to be told what was happening. Who is to blame her for wanting to know why her mother died when Annie was six? And who is to blame her for feeling like she has to hide her very self under covers because her new step mother seems to hate her with a vengeance? Annie tries so hard to not displease but she's always in trouble for saying and doing things that shouldn't even be considered wrong unless you belong to The Mission faith.
The family belongs to a very strict religious group that was founded by Annie's grandfather. What better way for her witch of a step mother to lord all things over her than to use the bible to browbeat and punish Annie. Yes, Annie may be rambunctious and curious but her step mother would like to stamp the life out of Annie, it seems. Step mother may have been able to keep Annie quiet (mostly) but she wasn't make Annie forget all what she saw and heard. Once Annie is able to go away to school, she is able to come home at sixteen and break through the barriers her step mother put in place, to find out some very dark secrets.
This story has a very slow buildup to the action at the end. The sense of repression is so real and strong, not just from the church and the step mother but also from the asylum where Annie's mad brother Fred has been sent. And Annie's sister Bea has changed. Once Bea was determined to be a missionary working in a needy country but now she seems to have lost that zeal. Both Fred and Bea know things they won't reveal to Annie and Annie is determined to find out those things.
Despite having questions about some things that happened in the past, I thought the ending fits this story so well. The psychological drama that infused this historical fiction had me on the edge of my seat. It's not a thriller and it's not fast moving but I wanted to know what had happened in the past and what was happening in the present, as much as Annie did. The story has us right inside of Annie's head, I never doubted this girl, and I was always on her side.
Pub: November 4, 2021
Thank you to Saga Egmont Audio and NetGalley for this ARC.
Right away, due to the excellent narration by Joanna Ruiz, I felt like I knew Annie Lang. Creative, precocious, smart, inquisitive, persistent, impulsive, and loyal, Annie Lang gives the impression of having been fueled by too much sugar and caffeine, such is her energy level, running thoughts and worries. She has so much to say that she can't get the words out fast enough, all the while having to restrain herself constantly because of the obvious displeasure of adults around her. Is it a wonder she bubbles over after an hour, day, week of trying to act the way that is expected of her?
Much of Annie's early life is clouded in mystery because she was too young to be told what was happening. Who is to blame her for wanting to know why her mother died when Annie was six? And who is to blame her for feeling like she has to hide her very self under covers because her new step mother seems to hate her with a vengeance? Annie tries so hard to not displease but she's always in trouble for saying and doing things that shouldn't even be considered wrong unless you belong to The Mission faith.
The family belongs to a very strict religious group that was founded by Annie's grandfather. What better way for her witch of a step mother to lord all things over her than to use the bible to browbeat and punish Annie. Yes, Annie may be rambunctious and curious but her step mother would like to stamp the life out of Annie, it seems. Step mother may have been able to keep Annie quiet (mostly) but she wasn't make Annie forget all what she saw and heard. Once Annie is able to go away to school, she is able to come home at sixteen and break through the barriers her step mother put in place, to find out some very dark secrets.
This story has a very slow buildup to the action at the end. The sense of repression is so real and strong, not just from the church and the step mother but also from the asylum where Annie's mad brother Fred has been sent. And Annie's sister Bea has changed. Once Bea was determined to be a missionary working in a needy country but now she seems to have lost that zeal. Both Fred and Bea know things they won't reveal to Annie and Annie is determined to find out those things.
Despite having questions about some things that happened in the past, I thought the ending fits this story so well. The psychological drama that infused this historical fiction had me on the edge of my seat. It's not a thriller and it's not fast moving but I wanted to know what had happened in the past and what was happening in the present, as much as Annie did. The story has us right inside of Annie's head, I never doubted this girl, and I was always on her side.
Pub: November 4, 2021
Thank you to Saga Egmont Audio and NetGalley for this ARC.
November 10, 2021
Ms Franey knows how to present the world seen through child's eyes. Annie, the youngest of three, as a child observes the world and does not comprehend fully what she sees. Her perception is limited by her age and by her siblings together with her father and step-mother. The family belong to a strict religious community founded by one of her ancestors and which has an impact on her ubringing.
The plot takes place in the mid-1920 and the early 1930, and we are offered a slow path towards Annie's full realisation of what she witnessed as a child.
This is a novel that uncovers hypocrisy swept under the rug and suffering of women who were abused and confined to an asylum in order to keep up appearances.
The narration by Joanna Ruiz is well-done.
*A big thank-you to Ros Franey, Saga Egmont Audio, and NetGalley for arc in exchange for my honest review.*
The plot takes place in the mid-1920 and the early 1930, and we are offered a slow path towards Annie's full realisation of what she witnessed as a child.
This is a novel that uncovers hypocrisy swept under the rug and suffering of women who were abused and confined to an asylum in order to keep up appearances.
The narration by Joanna Ruiz is well-done.
*A big thank-you to Ros Franey, Saga Egmont Audio, and NetGalley for arc in exchange for my honest review.*
November 6, 2021
In a Nutshell: An interesting slow-burn historical lit-fic with a strong heroine, dark themes, and a multitude of points to ponder upon.
Story:
There are multiple Annie Langs in the book and each of them dissents in their own way, whether major or minor. But the title mainly refers to the narrator of the story, little Annie who seems to mature before our very eyes. Annie’s story begins and ends at a train station. And in between these two points is revealed her journey of self-realisation and gutsiness. Most of the remaining characters pale in comparison to this eponymous heroine. She is outspoken, curious, courageous, impusive, loyal, and determined. She also knows when to toe the line and when to speak her mind. Annie’s dissent isn’t necessarily bombastic; many times, her rebellion is subtle and passes unnoticed by everyone except us readers. I love a character who knows how to pick her battles because usually, we get stuck with female characters who are doormats for most of the story, or with those who are aggressive about every single thing. There’s no in-between.
This book provides an interesting glimpse into the religious repression of female voices and the predominant patriarchy in most sects that is never questioned. It’s a dark narrative even when voiced from a child’s perspective, and contains many hard-hitting themes throughout. I appreciate how the story questioned why men escape unscathed from scandal and gossip while women are castigated for the same offence. Such two-faced behaviour of religious zealots is hardly ever questioned in real life. It was hence gratifying to see it in writing.
I usually keep the genre and target age group of a book in mind to see if the book does justice to its intended readers’ expectations. But for this startling story, it is tough to categorise the genre; it has shades of psychological drama, mystery thriller, literary fiction, historical fiction, religious fiction, and bildungsroman. But whichever way I look at it, I find myself a mostly satisfied reader. Many might find the pace of the story slow, especially in the first half. But a literary fiction is usually as a slow-burn, and the content raised enough curiosity in me to persevere even through the unhurried tempo. (The fact that I heard this and didn’t read it helped a lot.)
There are some unanswered questions about the past events. And these are primarily because we hear of the past and present only through young Annie’s voice. So whatever she doesn’t know, we don’t know. While this makes writing sense, it leaves readers dissatisfied and wanting to learn more about what happened. I would have loved to get to know more about some of the other characters. I would also have loved to know what happened after the last scene. Then again, the title does tell us that the story is about the dissent of Annie Lang. And it reveals to us only whatever she is aware of. And it stops at her final act of dissent.
All in all, I enjoyed this book tremendously, even though it left me with almost as many questions as answers. Recommended mainly to lit-fic or psychological-historical fiction fans.
The audiobook clocks at a little more than 9 hrs and is narrated by Joanna Ruiz. And what a brilliant narration it was! Whether Annie was 8 or 16 or 24, her voice was portrayed with a timbre suitable to that age. Joanna brought the titular character to life in a way that never leaves you in doubt about her feelings. Of course, there are two timelines to follow in the book. So if you get confused easily between audio timelines, it might suit you to read it than listen to it. But keeping in mind the fabulous narration and the slower pace of the story, I would certainly recommend the audio version as a better choice for this book.
My thanks to Saga Egmont Audio and NetGalley for the ALC of “The Dissent of Annie Lang”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Story:
1920s Nottingham. Annie Lang is the youngest child of a strict religious family. Her grandfather is the founding patriarch of a rigid Christian sect. After her mother’s death, Annie finds herself saddled with a father who either doesn’t know or doesn’t care, and a stepmother who is draconian in her religious beliefs. She finds herself witness to many confusing and disturbing events, but she’s too young to understand exactly what’s happening.
Six years on, when she returns from France, she finds that her dear elder brother is locked away in a mental asylum and her loving Sunday school teacher, who was also her friend, has vanished without a trace. Using her childhood diary and her elder sister Beatrice, Annie becomes determined to discover the truth.
The story comes to us in the first person perspective of Annie over multiple timelines, with the present part of the story being set in 1932.
There are multiple Annie Langs in the book and each of them dissents in their own way, whether major or minor. But the title mainly refers to the narrator of the story, little Annie who seems to mature before our very eyes. Annie’s story begins and ends at a train station. And in between these two points is revealed her journey of self-realisation and gutsiness. Most of the remaining characters pale in comparison to this eponymous heroine. She is outspoken, curious, courageous, impusive, loyal, and determined. She also knows when to toe the line and when to speak her mind. Annie’s dissent isn’t necessarily bombastic; many times, her rebellion is subtle and passes unnoticed by everyone except us readers. I love a character who knows how to pick her battles because usually, we get stuck with female characters who are doormats for most of the story, or with those who are aggressive about every single thing. There’s no in-between.
This book provides an interesting glimpse into the religious repression of female voices and the predominant patriarchy in most sects that is never questioned. It’s a dark narrative even when voiced from a child’s perspective, and contains many hard-hitting themes throughout. I appreciate how the story questioned why men escape unscathed from scandal and gossip while women are castigated for the same offence. Such two-faced behaviour of religious zealots is hardly ever questioned in real life. It was hence gratifying to see it in writing.
I usually keep the genre and target age group of a book in mind to see if the book does justice to its intended readers’ expectations. But for this startling story, it is tough to categorise the genre; it has shades of psychological drama, mystery thriller, literary fiction, historical fiction, religious fiction, and bildungsroman. But whichever way I look at it, I find myself a mostly satisfied reader. Many might find the pace of the story slow, especially in the first half. But a literary fiction is usually as a slow-burn, and the content raised enough curiosity in me to persevere even through the unhurried tempo. (The fact that I heard this and didn’t read it helped a lot.)
There are some unanswered questions about the past events. And these are primarily because we hear of the past and present only through young Annie’s voice. So whatever she doesn’t know, we don’t know. While this makes writing sense, it leaves readers dissatisfied and wanting to learn more about what happened. I would have loved to get to know more about some of the other characters. I would also have loved to know what happened after the last scene. Then again, the title does tell us that the story is about the dissent of Annie Lang. And it reveals to us only whatever she is aware of. And it stops at her final act of dissent.
All in all, I enjoyed this book tremendously, even though it left me with almost as many questions as answers. Recommended mainly to lit-fic or psychological-historical fiction fans.
The audiobook clocks at a little more than 9 hrs and is narrated by Joanna Ruiz. And what a brilliant narration it was! Whether Annie was 8 or 16 or 24, her voice was portrayed with a timbre suitable to that age. Joanna brought the titular character to life in a way that never leaves you in doubt about her feelings. Of course, there are two timelines to follow in the book. So if you get confused easily between audio timelines, it might suit you to read it than listen to it. But keeping in mind the fabulous narration and the slower pace of the story, I would certainly recommend the audio version as a better choice for this book.
My thanks to Saga Egmont Audio and NetGalley for the ALC of “The Dissent of Annie Lang”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
April 17, 2022
Format: audiobook
Author: Ros Franey ~ Title: The Dissent of Annie Lang ~ Narrator: Joanna Ruiz
Content: 4 stars ~ Narration: 4.5 stars
Complete audiobook review
Annie Lang is a strong, impulsive, and stubborn main character. But she’s also quite naïve, mainly because of her age and her upbringing. She is a character that, in time, you grow to like. Annie lives in a strict religious family. Her mother died when she was seven, and after that, her father remarried. In time, more and more strange events emerge. Nobody explains them, but Annie wants to know more.
This novel is pretty slow-paced, and not all readers will like it. But I guess it could be a treat for fans of slow-paced historical and literary fiction. Especially those who appreciate a hint of mystery in books they read.
The narration was excellent. The narrator used distinct voices for younger and older Annie and other characters.
Thanks to Saga Egmont Audio the for the ARC and the opportunity to listen to this! All opinions are my own.
Author: Ros Franey ~ Title: The Dissent of Annie Lang ~ Narrator: Joanna Ruiz
Content: 4 stars ~ Narration: 4.5 stars
Complete audiobook review
Annie Lang is a strong, impulsive, and stubborn main character. But she’s also quite naïve, mainly because of her age and her upbringing. She is a character that, in time, you grow to like. Annie lives in a strict religious family. Her mother died when she was seven, and after that, her father remarried. In time, more and more strange events emerge. Nobody explains them, but Annie wants to know more.
This novel is pretty slow-paced, and not all readers will like it. But I guess it could be a treat for fans of slow-paced historical and literary fiction. Especially those who appreciate a hint of mystery in books they read.
The narration was excellent. The narrator used distinct voices for younger and older Annie and other characters.
Thanks to Saga Egmont Audio the for the ARC and the opportunity to listen to this! All opinions are my own.
November 12, 2025
The Dissent of Annie Lang recounts the life of Annie, the youngest of the Lang family. Her background is religious to the point of being cult-like, and given the historical setting, her upbringing is stricter than most. Personal tragedies and a controlling environment shape her personality, but don’t break her spirit.
October 26, 2021
I enjoyed this and went into it having no idea what it was about. Annie herself tells this from a past and present narrative and she was a delightful. She was sweet and honest to a fault. The author held me in suspense while I tried to figure out why girls had gone missing.
I felt like the novel was about religion and the limitations of women during this time. I wonder if the author had a bad experience with the church or maybe people in authority?
It was well done and I highly recommend listening to this one. I chose to listen to this book on audio and loved Joanna Ruiz narrating this one. It’s 9 hours and 7 minutes long.
Thanks Saga Egmont Audio via Netgalley.
I felt like the novel was about religion and the limitations of women during this time. I wonder if the author had a bad experience with the church or maybe people in authority?
It was well done and I highly recommend listening to this one. I chose to listen to this book on audio and loved Joanna Ruiz narrating this one. It’s 9 hours and 7 minutes long.
Thanks Saga Egmont Audio via Netgalley.
November 10, 2018
A compelling book, with a great rhythm and an intriguing story.
At first one might think that the story of this book is a modern Cinderella story, with a lively little girl oppressed by an overly religious and strict stepmother and a initially jolly father who changed overnight after marrying her.
But after the first half there's a sort of a twist, something that an expert reader might even expect, and it's revealed how everything is not as it seems, but it's all a façade, well built by the network of the Masons, intertwined with a religious and closed Baptist community.
Overall it was a really good book, and I enjoyed it much more than I thought when I started it, as it also opens a door on facts and beliefs that could seem of the past, but are very current.
At first one might think that the story of this book is a modern Cinderella story, with a lively little girl oppressed by an overly religious and strict stepmother and a initially jolly father who changed overnight after marrying her.
But after the first half there's a sort of a twist, something that an expert reader might even expect, and it's revealed how everything is not as it seems, but it's all a façade, well built by the network of the Masons, intertwined with a religious and closed Baptist community.
Overall it was a really good book, and I enjoyed it much more than I thought when I started it, as it also opens a door on facts and beliefs that could seem of the past, but are very current.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2021
In 1920s Nottingham, the Lang family are a pillar of their religious community. So young Annie believes, until a series of unexplained events occur.
Annie Lang is a wide-eyed, plucky and charming companion through this engaging book. At times, the reader will chuckle at the protagonist’s naivety, but as the mystery darkens, we really care for her and those she tries to help.
All the characters are well developed, and the dialogue is pitch perfect.
Franey writes with confidence, foreshadowing to heighten tension, and skilfully dropping hints which pass Annie by.
The audio edition is well produced, and narrator Joanna Ruiz captures the individual characters perfectly.
My thanks to NetGalley and Saga Egmont Audio for the audio ARC.
Annie Lang is a wide-eyed, plucky and charming companion through this engaging book. At times, the reader will chuckle at the protagonist’s naivety, but as the mystery darkens, we really care for her and those she tries to help.
All the characters are well developed, and the dialogue is pitch perfect.
Franey writes with confidence, foreshadowing to heighten tension, and skilfully dropping hints which pass Annie by.
The audio edition is well produced, and narrator Joanna Ruiz captures the individual characters perfectly.
My thanks to NetGalley and Saga Egmont Audio for the audio ARC.
October 21, 2021
Things are definitely not how they seem! Annie narrates her childhood and interactions with her new religious strict step-mother, but oh what a twist comes when searching for what happened to Miss Blessing.
This dark tale really shows the repression on women and how punishment happens for not following the rules. Parts of this book broke my heart, especially the psychiatric hospital, but Annie's strong will to put things right showed through.
The first half of the book started real slow and was a bit monotonous, but once the mystery took hold I was hooked. I read the audiobook version and the narrator was engaging enough to help get thought to the faster paced part.
This book is dark and covers a lot of difficult topics and does it well!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this Audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
This dark tale really shows the repression on women and how punishment happens for not following the rules. Parts of this book broke my heart, especially the psychiatric hospital, but Annie's strong will to put things right showed through.
The first half of the book started real slow and was a bit monotonous, but once the mystery took hold I was hooked. I read the audiobook version and the narrator was engaging enough to help get thought to the faster paced part.
This book is dark and covers a lot of difficult topics and does it well!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this Audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
November 27, 2021
Annie Lang is introduced as a young girl whose mother has died when she was 6, and despite her strict religious (cult-like) upbringing, she does not see Jesus as one who loves the little children, since He doesn't seem to care very much about her. There are several things that just don't make much sense to little Annie and no one seems keen to let her in on it.
Years pass and when she returns from France from a school stint, she is struck by the strange occurrences that, again, no one seems ready to speak of. Her brother is in a mental hospital where her father will rarely visit, her father's "new" wife is just as horrid as before, and her sister Bea is mum. Annie is determined to find out what is going on and why her favorite Sunday School teacher is also missing. Her digging uncovers more than she could guess and the weight of it propels her into a quest to make it right. She finds unlikely allies as her world begins to unravel and she must figure out what path she will take to keep herself from falling down into the abyss.
This was a fairly slow burn historical mystery/family drama. I tend to enjoy the character development and world building that is done, but I could see how this one may take a bit to stay with it. I would encourage the reader/listener to stay with it! It felt at times that there were several confusing lines to follow, but as a good slow burn does, it brings it all together in the end. I did find myself frustrated that Annie couldn't find out more, but then I would remember that she was a child and naturally did not see it all in an adult perspective. This was a fascinating choice. There was a real heart-wrenching moment for Annie when she begins to lose her childlike naiveté, and those moments are such that cannot be taken back.
I really enjoyed getting into Annie's head and being able to watch her grow. I had such frustration alongside her and anger and confusion! I saw how she chose her moments carefully over time, and had to admit she may have better self-control than me.
I listened to the audio version of this story, and I do admit I had to replay a few sections. This wasn't a story that I could just gloss over. I wanted to understand what exactly was happening. I think the narrator, Joanna Ruiz was fantastic and gave Annie all the emotions and growth along the way.
I would recommend this story for those who are ready to enter the world and character building before the deeper darker drama unfolds. I finished the audio quickly; however, I don't know if I would speed through this one if I were to read the book. I definitely enjoyed all the underlying mystery, family drama, and suspense.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the audio. I was transported and enveloped in the mystery all while I was supposed to be working. All opinions are voluntary and my own!
Years pass and when she returns from France from a school stint, she is struck by the strange occurrences that, again, no one seems ready to speak of. Her brother is in a mental hospital where her father will rarely visit, her father's "new" wife is just as horrid as before, and her sister Bea is mum. Annie is determined to find out what is going on and why her favorite Sunday School teacher is also missing. Her digging uncovers more than she could guess and the weight of it propels her into a quest to make it right. She finds unlikely allies as her world begins to unravel and she must figure out what path she will take to keep herself from falling down into the abyss.
This was a fairly slow burn historical mystery/family drama. I tend to enjoy the character development and world building that is done, but I could see how this one may take a bit to stay with it. I would encourage the reader/listener to stay with it! It felt at times that there were several confusing lines to follow, but as a good slow burn does, it brings it all together in the end. I did find myself frustrated that Annie couldn't find out more, but then I would remember that she was a child and naturally did not see it all in an adult perspective. This was a fascinating choice. There was a real heart-wrenching moment for Annie when she begins to lose her childlike naiveté, and those moments are such that cannot be taken back.
I really enjoyed getting into Annie's head and being able to watch her grow. I had such frustration alongside her and anger and confusion! I saw how she chose her moments carefully over time, and had to admit she may have better self-control than me.
I listened to the audio version of this story, and I do admit I had to replay a few sections. This wasn't a story that I could just gloss over. I wanted to understand what exactly was happening. I think the narrator, Joanna Ruiz was fantastic and gave Annie all the emotions and growth along the way.
I would recommend this story for those who are ready to enter the world and character building before the deeper darker drama unfolds. I finished the audio quickly; however, I don't know if I would speed through this one if I were to read the book. I definitely enjoyed all the underlying mystery, family drama, and suspense.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the audio. I was transported and enveloped in the mystery all while I was supposed to be working. All opinions are voluntary and my own!
November 3, 2018
Si inizia alla stazione del treno e si finisce alla stazione del treno,
come Anna Karenina, come Harry Potter.
In realtà si inizia molto prima, anzi prima ancora. Una buona metà del libro ruota attorno alla povera orfanella, e che sarà mai, una storiella? Potrei abbandonare qui.
E invece continuo a leggere, giusto giusto nella notte di Halloween. Ed ecco si delinea il contorno del mostro. Meglio smettere qui, si mette veramente molto male. Ma la storia mi prende, sono preoccupata per la piccoletta. Come va a finire?
Ed arrivo all'ultima pagina in un soffio. Non grandi cose, tante strade rimaste senza uscita, un po' troppe. La storia si gonfia di attese e poi un po' si smonta. Ma mi sono divertita, è una lettura veloce e coinvolgente.
come Anna Karenina, come Harry Potter.
In realtà si inizia molto prima, anzi prima ancora. Una buona metà del libro ruota attorno alla povera orfanella, e che sarà mai, una storiella? Potrei abbandonare qui.
E invece continuo a leggere, giusto giusto nella notte di Halloween. Ed ecco si delinea il contorno del mostro. Meglio smettere qui, si mette veramente molto male. Ma la storia mi prende, sono preoccupata per la piccoletta. Come va a finire?
Ed arrivo all'ultima pagina in un soffio. Non grandi cose, tante strade rimaste senza uscita, un po' troppe. La storia si gonfia di attese e poi un po' si smonta. Ma mi sono divertita, è una lettura veloce e coinvolgente.
November 9, 2021
A well executed dual timeline historical fiction with a dash of mystery.
We meet Annie Lang as a young woman just returned home to the UK from an extended stay in France. Upon her return she learns that her brother has been put into an asylum for undisclosed mental health issues and her former beloved Sunday school teacher has disappeared without a trace. Annie is suspicious of the claims her family makes and wants to get to the heart of the matter. In the course of her fact-finding mission, other family secrets emerge, leading to some unexpected turns.
The second timeline shows Annie's diary entries as a young child who loses her mother and then has to contend with a cold and oppressive stepmother who only sees her flaws. Growing up in a strict religious community, she is brought up to believe in the doctrines of her church, but struggles with her faith due to her mother's early death. This leads her to question other narratives her family tells and facilitates her development into an independent, slightly headstrong girl that tries hard to fulfill her own wishes within the confines of her position.
The characters are well drawn, if a bit stereotypical at times (looking at you, evil stepmother), the voice of Annie well realised, both as a child and a young woman. I enjoyed watching her grow into an independent thinker that keeps her own council.
The novel explores ideas of morality, faith, sexual abuse and the inherent misogyny that governs the ways society judges victims over perpetrators, a theme unfortunately still very timely, even though here it is explored within the 1920s in a religious community.
I listened to this on audio, and the narrator Joanna Ruiz deftly inhabits Annie at both ages with nuanced changes to her tone and inflections that distinguish between child and young woman.
Video review: https://youtu.be/mWK3b4Q6VDY
Thanks to Saga Egmont Audio and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
We meet Annie Lang as a young woman just returned home to the UK from an extended stay in France. Upon her return she learns that her brother has been put into an asylum for undisclosed mental health issues and her former beloved Sunday school teacher has disappeared without a trace. Annie is suspicious of the claims her family makes and wants to get to the heart of the matter. In the course of her fact-finding mission, other family secrets emerge, leading to some unexpected turns.
The second timeline shows Annie's diary entries as a young child who loses her mother and then has to contend with a cold and oppressive stepmother who only sees her flaws. Growing up in a strict religious community, she is brought up to believe in the doctrines of her church, but struggles with her faith due to her mother's early death. This leads her to question other narratives her family tells and facilitates her development into an independent, slightly headstrong girl that tries hard to fulfill her own wishes within the confines of her position.
The characters are well drawn, if a bit stereotypical at times (looking at you, evil stepmother), the voice of Annie well realised, both as a child and a young woman. I enjoyed watching her grow into an independent thinker that keeps her own council.
The novel explores ideas of morality, faith, sexual abuse and the inherent misogyny that governs the ways society judges victims over perpetrators, a theme unfortunately still very timely, even though here it is explored within the 1920s in a religious community.
I listened to this on audio, and the narrator Joanna Ruiz deftly inhabits Annie at both ages with nuanced changes to her tone and inflections that distinguish between child and young woman.
Video review: https://youtu.be/mWK3b4Q6VDY
Thanks to Saga Egmont Audio and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2018
The book starts with a tantalising prologue where we meet Annie in 1932 on her return from France where she’s been studying. Here she learns that her brother Fred is in the asylum with nervous exhaustion and this stirs memories from her childhood which she’s never fully understood.
The story is told from Annie’s perspective through all three parts of the book; 1926, 1926 to 1932 and finally 1932. Her earliest memories we are told are backed up by journals she wrote as a young girl following the death of her mother when Annie was just six. Annie has an older sister Beatrice and a brother Fred and a dog Nana. She remembers happier times when her mother was alive but following her death Annie is labelled troublesome and in need of a firm hand. A housekeeper Agnes is employed to take the household in hand. Her Grandfather is the pastor at the fundamentalist church he set up in Nottinghamshire. Sundays are spent worshipping and strict adherence to the bible is expected at all times.
It didn’t take me long to become immersed in Annie’s world and the doses of cod liver oil and maids lighting fires, boarding school for Fred and visiting the sick for Agnes, who soon became the second Mrs Lang, all set the time period nicely without the author making her meticulous research obvious. In fact for much of the book, I was convinced that this was based on a true story as it felt so authentic.
Although part of The Dissent of Annie Lang is set in her early childhood and she isn’t a particularly precocious child, the reader is well aware that she is noting the events that she believes will solve the mystery, of what became of her Sunday School Teacher Millie Blessing. She turns the memories this way and that for clues and this clever device means that although we are told of her initial delight when Nana sprayed the new wallpaper with beetroot juice by wagging her tail, and witness her dismay when the punishment means that the dog is banished to a kennel in the garden, it is the undertones of this household that are brought to the fore. This is a house where young Annie understands that some things are never to be mentioned, what she doesn’t understand is what subjects are banned, and as for the reason why, she has no clue. Her sister, older by six years, knows more but is tight-lipped and far more religious than Annie believes she will ever be.
The characters are brilliantly depicted, Annie’s friendship with Marjorie Bagshaw in particular, the two girls thrown together because of where they live have little in common and the delicate tussle of power is shown as both keep secrets when it will be to their advantage, at one point Annie admits that neither particularly likes the other. Of course Annie herself is everything I enjoy in a character, spirited and determined and absolutely realistic, she holds her own against the seemingly impervious pillars of religion and the point in history where children, and women, have a very small voice indeed.
This historical story is definitely one of my finds of the year. The language so persuasive, the story grabbed me from the start and I was as anxious as Annie to know the fate of Millie Blessing and her beautiful blue shoes. I often try to avoid speaking about the ending of a book for obvious reasons but this one hit absolutely the right spot – there isn’t a neat wrap-up, but there is certainly enough to be absolutely satisfying given what has gone before.
The story is told from Annie’s perspective through all three parts of the book; 1926, 1926 to 1932 and finally 1932. Her earliest memories we are told are backed up by journals she wrote as a young girl following the death of her mother when Annie was just six. Annie has an older sister Beatrice and a brother Fred and a dog Nana. She remembers happier times when her mother was alive but following her death Annie is labelled troublesome and in need of a firm hand. A housekeeper Agnes is employed to take the household in hand. Her Grandfather is the pastor at the fundamentalist church he set up in Nottinghamshire. Sundays are spent worshipping and strict adherence to the bible is expected at all times.
It didn’t take me long to become immersed in Annie’s world and the doses of cod liver oil and maids lighting fires, boarding school for Fred and visiting the sick for Agnes, who soon became the second Mrs Lang, all set the time period nicely without the author making her meticulous research obvious. In fact for much of the book, I was convinced that this was based on a true story as it felt so authentic.
Although part of The Dissent of Annie Lang is set in her early childhood and she isn’t a particularly precocious child, the reader is well aware that she is noting the events that she believes will solve the mystery, of what became of her Sunday School Teacher Millie Blessing. She turns the memories this way and that for clues and this clever device means that although we are told of her initial delight when Nana sprayed the new wallpaper with beetroot juice by wagging her tail, and witness her dismay when the punishment means that the dog is banished to a kennel in the garden, it is the undertones of this household that are brought to the fore. This is a house where young Annie understands that some things are never to be mentioned, what she doesn’t understand is what subjects are banned, and as for the reason why, she has no clue. Her sister, older by six years, knows more but is tight-lipped and far more religious than Annie believes she will ever be.
The characters are brilliantly depicted, Annie’s friendship with Marjorie Bagshaw in particular, the two girls thrown together because of where they live have little in common and the delicate tussle of power is shown as both keep secrets when it will be to their advantage, at one point Annie admits that neither particularly likes the other. Of course Annie herself is everything I enjoy in a character, spirited and determined and absolutely realistic, she holds her own against the seemingly impervious pillars of religion and the point in history where children, and women, have a very small voice indeed.
This historical story is definitely one of my finds of the year. The language so persuasive, the story grabbed me from the start and I was as anxious as Annie to know the fate of Millie Blessing and her beautiful blue shoes. I often try to avoid speaking about the ending of a book for obvious reasons but this one hit absolutely the right spot – there isn’t a neat wrap-up, but there is certainly enough to be absolutely satisfying given what has gone before.
July 25, 2022
The Dissent of Annie Lang
by Ros Franey
The Dissent of Annie Lang drew me in slowly but then had a firm hold on me until the very end.
Annie Lang’s story is told by a younger and an older version of herself as she reflects on a series of confusing and disturbing events from her past. With the aid of her childhood diary, the older Annie attempts to uncover the truth behind a number of mysterious happenings in her community. The author allows us to witness the seemingly arbitrary rules, harsh punishments and contradictory behavior of the adult world through the eyes and mind of a child. This is a coming of age story, one in which Annie will learn to question the ways of her authoritarian elders, correct injustices and make her world right again.
My sincerest thanks to NetGalley and Saga Egmont Aduio for the gift of this well produced and skillfully performed audio ARC. Don’t miss it! Pub Day: 04 November 2021
#TheDissentofAnnieLang
#RosFraney
#NetGalley
#SagaEgmont
#comingofage #historicalfiction #audiobooks #foryourlisteningpleasure #myreadinglife #booksofinstagram #modernmrsdarcy #mmdbookclub
by Ros Franey
The Dissent of Annie Lang drew me in slowly but then had a firm hold on me until the very end.
Annie Lang’s story is told by a younger and an older version of herself as she reflects on a series of confusing and disturbing events from her past. With the aid of her childhood diary, the older Annie attempts to uncover the truth behind a number of mysterious happenings in her community. The author allows us to witness the seemingly arbitrary rules, harsh punishments and contradictory behavior of the adult world through the eyes and mind of a child. This is a coming of age story, one in which Annie will learn to question the ways of her authoritarian elders, correct injustices and make her world right again.
My sincerest thanks to NetGalley and Saga Egmont Aduio for the gift of this well produced and skillfully performed audio ARC. Don’t miss it! Pub Day: 04 November 2021
#TheDissentofAnnieLang
#RosFraney
#NetGalley
#SagaEgmont
#comingofage #historicalfiction #audiobooks #foryourlisteningpleasure #myreadinglife #booksofinstagram #modernmrsdarcy #mmdbookclub
November 29, 2021
The Dissent of Annie Lang is exactly the type of book I love listening to on audio - slow-burning, easy to digest, and brimming with mystery.
After Annie's mother passes away, a new mother is initiated into the Lang family; a cold, fearful, and heavily religious woman who seems to take an instant dislike to Annie and her inquisitive ways. From the age of 12, Annie keeps a diary where she plots her run-ins with her mother, including her trapped night in the cellar where she witnesses something that she'll only come to understand years later. Diary in hand, 18-year-old Annie attempts to piece together the events that occurred in her childhood, in an attempt to right a wrong that has had a life-changing impact on those closest to her.
The British setting was one of my favourite things about this novel, and that it was mostly narrated by a young girl, full of energy and the naivety of childhood - it reminded me a little of The Trouble With Goats and Sheep by Joanna Cannon. I loved Annie's impulsiveness and creative thinking when it came to smuggling Nana (the dog) into the house and disposing of the cod liver oil. It was clear that things were happening around her that she was too young to recognise, and I liked how the novel slowly revealed these events to a now mature Annie who feels it is her duty to help now that she finally knows the truth.
The gender and social class imbalance among the characters was very well portrayed. The novel tackled sensitive subjects from both sides of this imbalance so we could glimpse it from multiple angles. I loved how Annie was at the centre of the novel, torn between doing right by her family/the law, and following her heart.
The narration was very impressive, especially the different voices of Annie at different stages in life and the other characters on top of that. Eight-year-old Annie did seem a little over-enthusiastic 99% of the time which became a little overbearing but I'm sure it reflected her age well.
I'd highly recommend this one to those that enjoy slow-burn historical fiction with unforgettable characters.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an audio copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rating breakdown
Plot/narrative - 4.2
Writing style/readability - 4.4
Characters - 4.1
Diverse themes - 3.6
Ending - 4.2
Overall - 4.1
After Annie's mother passes away, a new mother is initiated into the Lang family; a cold, fearful, and heavily religious woman who seems to take an instant dislike to Annie and her inquisitive ways. From the age of 12, Annie keeps a diary where she plots her run-ins with her mother, including her trapped night in the cellar where she witnesses something that she'll only come to understand years later. Diary in hand, 18-year-old Annie attempts to piece together the events that occurred in her childhood, in an attempt to right a wrong that has had a life-changing impact on those closest to her.
The British setting was one of my favourite things about this novel, and that it was mostly narrated by a young girl, full of energy and the naivety of childhood - it reminded me a little of The Trouble With Goats and Sheep by Joanna Cannon. I loved Annie's impulsiveness and creative thinking when it came to smuggling Nana (the dog) into the house and disposing of the cod liver oil. It was clear that things were happening around her that she was too young to recognise, and I liked how the novel slowly revealed these events to a now mature Annie who feels it is her duty to help now that she finally knows the truth.
The gender and social class imbalance among the characters was very well portrayed. The novel tackled sensitive subjects from both sides of this imbalance so we could glimpse it from multiple angles. I loved how Annie was at the centre of the novel, torn between doing right by her family/the law, and following her heart.
The narration was very impressive, especially the different voices of Annie at different stages in life and the other characters on top of that. Eight-year-old Annie did seem a little over-enthusiastic 99% of the time which became a little overbearing but I'm sure it reflected her age well.
I'd highly recommend this one to those that enjoy slow-burn historical fiction with unforgettable characters.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an audio copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rating breakdown
Plot/narrative - 4.2
Writing style/readability - 4.4
Characters - 4.1
Diverse themes - 3.6
Ending - 4.2
Overall - 4.1
October 26, 2021
This was an unusual book & not what I was expecting!
Set in early 20th Century Nottingham, we hear from Annie at various points in her young life – starting with her as a 5 year old, and moving on to her as a young adult. Brought up in a strict religious household (grandfather was the founding pastor of a church), Annie is subject to strict rules on everything from wearing your gloves to not playing games on Sundays, but after some odd coincidences and unusual happenings, she starts to realise that everything she knows to be right & proper is built on shady foundations. The portrayal of the church is bleak and feels a little cliched but equally it is convincing enough that it could be a fair portrayal.
Annie is an interesting character that grows from a slightly precocious and very innocent pre-school child, through a difficult childhood where she regularly clashes with her new, strict & fervently religious step-mother, into a young woman who you can really engage with and want to succeed! The majority of other characters were manipulative, hypocritical and uninspiring though I did like the way that a couple did soften towards the end of the book.
I listened to the audiobook & the narrator did a great job in differentiating between characters and capturing the essence of a slightly precocious young child really well.
Whilst I enjoyed the setting (I was brought up near Nottingham & much of it felt familiar), unfortunately I found the story very slow & I was waiting for the action to start – once the mystery (the disappearance of Miss Blessing) unfolded, I found it all to be a bit too predictable. The story is quite dark and touches on a number of difficult topics sensitively.
Disclosure: I received an copy of this audiobook free via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the author & publisher for the opportunity to read it, all opinions are my own.
Set in early 20th Century Nottingham, we hear from Annie at various points in her young life – starting with her as a 5 year old, and moving on to her as a young adult. Brought up in a strict religious household (grandfather was the founding pastor of a church), Annie is subject to strict rules on everything from wearing your gloves to not playing games on Sundays, but after some odd coincidences and unusual happenings, she starts to realise that everything she knows to be right & proper is built on shady foundations. The portrayal of the church is bleak and feels a little cliched but equally it is convincing enough that it could be a fair portrayal.
Annie is an interesting character that grows from a slightly precocious and very innocent pre-school child, through a difficult childhood where she regularly clashes with her new, strict & fervently religious step-mother, into a young woman who you can really engage with and want to succeed! The majority of other characters were manipulative, hypocritical and uninspiring though I did like the way that a couple did soften towards the end of the book.
I listened to the audiobook & the narrator did a great job in differentiating between characters and capturing the essence of a slightly precocious young child really well.
Whilst I enjoyed the setting (I was brought up near Nottingham & much of it felt familiar), unfortunately I found the story very slow & I was waiting for the action to start – once the mystery (the disappearance of Miss Blessing) unfolded, I found it all to be a bit too predictable. The story is quite dark and touches on a number of difficult topics sensitively.
Disclosure: I received an copy of this audiobook free via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the author & publisher for the opportunity to read it, all opinions are my own.
May 15, 2018
We first encounter Annie Lang in 1932, at the start of the novel, when she is a seventeen year old student newly returned from France. Rather cleverly, we are guided back, by her, to the time of her childhood, in the aftermath of a family tragedy, which releases memories of her growing up with her brother, Fred and sister, Beatrice.That this tragedy darkens her life, and that of her siblings, goes without saying, but it is also the sad and rather gloomy story of Annie’s troubled upbringing, in a deeply religious house, by her indifferent father and her unpleasant stepmother, which really cuts to the quick.
In many ways, The Dissent of Annie Lang is a cleverly controlled coming of age story in which Annie finds some hidden and horrible truths and yet, it is also the story of Annie’s absolute determination to right a wrong which threatens the stability of the whole of her family. Throughout the story I was beguiled by Annie, by her spirit, her waywardness and her ability to get into mischief, and even though the oppressive nature of her home threatens to drain away any happiness from her, she is able to find some lighter moments with her dog, Nana.
Beautifully written and utterly engaging, The Dissent of Annie Lang takes us into the very heart of a fractured family and even in the oppressive atmosphere of this deeply troubled household, Annie's indomitable sprint refuses to be intimidated. Her toughness and steadfastness in light of such a deeply disturbing secret is what made me keep turning the pages and the author has instilled in Annie such a lively spirit that you can’t help but be on her side throughout the whole of the story.
In many ways, The Dissent of Annie Lang is a cleverly controlled coming of age story in which Annie finds some hidden and horrible truths and yet, it is also the story of Annie’s absolute determination to right a wrong which threatens the stability of the whole of her family. Throughout the story I was beguiled by Annie, by her spirit, her waywardness and her ability to get into mischief, and even though the oppressive nature of her home threatens to drain away any happiness from her, she is able to find some lighter moments with her dog, Nana.
Beautifully written and utterly engaging, The Dissent of Annie Lang takes us into the very heart of a fractured family and even in the oppressive atmosphere of this deeply troubled household, Annie's indomitable sprint refuses to be intimidated. Her toughness and steadfastness in light of such a deeply disturbing secret is what made me keep turning the pages and the author has instilled in Annie such a lively spirit that you can’t help but be on her side throughout the whole of the story.
May 9, 2018
Absorbing and engaging, The Dissent of Annie Lang held me in the rebellious heart of a repressed Christian family in 1920s Midlands. It’s a family with rot at the centre and Annie, from age 6 to 12, senses but cannot comprehend the cause of the dysfunction. The story weaves in sections between Annie, age 16, who discovers a heinous injustice, and the young Annie, who witnessed evidence she had not understood. Annie is our narrator, but the reader suspects long before her what has been going on. It is a gradual, then shocking loss of innocence. I can’t say more without giving away the secret, but trust me, Annie digs, delves and fights to make amends.
Despite the age of the narrator this is not a YA book. Author Ros Franey brings alive the realities of period and community, and psychological insights that are nuanced and sometimes ironic (thanks to Annie’s take on the world). I loved the riveting battle of wills, both sad and funny, between the pious, upright step-mother and young Annie. Obedient, yet wilful, eager for love and approval, yet conniving, Annie often manages to get her own way. Included in the skirmishes are cod liver oil, a spooky cellar and Nana, the beloved dog, who becomes an integral part of the plot.
Despite the age of the narrator this is not a YA book. Author Ros Franey brings alive the realities of period and community, and psychological insights that are nuanced and sometimes ironic (thanks to Annie’s take on the world). I loved the riveting battle of wills, both sad and funny, between the pious, upright step-mother and young Annie. Obedient, yet wilful, eager for love and approval, yet conniving, Annie often manages to get her own way. Included in the skirmishes are cod liver oil, a spooky cellar and Nana, the beloved dog, who becomes an integral part of the plot.
November 1, 2021
The Dissent of Annie Lang was a fascinating visit to the interbellum years outside of London. Who is Annie Lang, and from what does she dissent? Interestingly, though Annie Lang is a fictional character living a century ago, raised in a Pentecostal type Christian sect, she’s not all that unlike many young people, especially women, brought up in conservative environments currently flourishing everywhere. Rules are strict, questions are muted, and pondering apparent contradictions gets you nowhere but in trouble. The story bounces back and forth between 1926 and 1932, and listening to the audio, I found the time jumps at times disconcerting, especially since the “older” Annie, who supposedly has been away from her family studying in France for a semester, sometimes seems no more astute than her younger self. Good doesn’t literally triumph over evil in this sensitively conveyed tale; the book ends in a draw, with both sides more or less acknowledging each other and agreeing to stand-down, at least for the time being. All of this sounds rather sterile, but I liked Annie. I came to care for her sister and her brother and the friend Annie wants so desperately to help, and even though I thought the ending a trifle abrupt, I believe the characters will stay in my mind for a while.
November 9, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. Well I enjoyed listening to the audiobook and thought the narrator was great. She really brought the book to life. I really loved reading about the young character coming of age story. Also the not so nice step mother that liked to control her every move. It was the depths of the characters that brought this to life and made it throughly enjoyable. The little details made the characters believable making it very easy to relate to them and love or hate them. The book created a great sense of atmosphere and tension for the period. I enjoyed the slightly slower pace of the novel but I lost concentration during the middle of the book and got a little confused. Whether that was my fault or the books is unknown. I really enjoyed the pace at the end of the book. The beginning and end really made this book for me. If it wasn't for the middle section I would of rated it higher as I actually gave it a 3.5 but rounded it up a little. This book would make a great genre hybrid book as it contains part historical fiction, part mystery and part young adult read.
Thanks to the author and publishers for allowing us to enjoy this great book. I'm happy I got to enjoy this book.
Thanks to the author and publishers for allowing us to enjoy this great book. I'm happy I got to enjoy this book.
October 24, 2021
With thanks to NetGalley for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Oo this was a great listen. It’s quite an emotional read but really very addictive and very hard to stop listening to. I could often be found sneaking away to a quiet corner to listen to just a few more minutes! Set in the early 20th century and spanning a number of decades, it is beautifully read with a perfectly set northern accent. We hear the story from the point of view of a young Annie Lang, told across a number of important periods of her life. The narration of the childhood Annie is spot on, not too annoying but with just the right amount of intonation that you would expect from a young child. The plot line explores ministerial church at the turn of the century and paints a fairly bleak but probably fair picture. I really feel for Annie and her companions of the time, what a tense environment they lived in. Sometimes I did feel her view point was a little forward for her generation but that doesn’t detract from the story. All in all a great story, told very well in audio format and perfect for all historical fiction fans.
Oo this was a great listen. It’s quite an emotional read but really very addictive and very hard to stop listening to. I could often be found sneaking away to a quiet corner to listen to just a few more minutes! Set in the early 20th century and spanning a number of decades, it is beautifully read with a perfectly set northern accent. We hear the story from the point of view of a young Annie Lang, told across a number of important periods of her life. The narration of the childhood Annie is spot on, not too annoying but with just the right amount of intonation that you would expect from a young child. The plot line explores ministerial church at the turn of the century and paints a fairly bleak but probably fair picture. I really feel for Annie and her companions of the time, what a tense environment they lived in. Sometimes I did feel her view point was a little forward for her generation but that doesn’t detract from the story. All in all a great story, told very well in audio format and perfect for all historical fiction fans.
October 28, 2021
I wasn't sure of the plot going into this audiobook but I was sufficiently intrigued by the synopsis.
I have to say, the narrator does a good job of keeping me interested, but the plot didn't. I was at 34% when I realised nothing had really happened, but I continued because I liked the narrator and was still rooting for Annie. But then I noticed poor Annie had been making a bad name for herself with the adults around her and I was just getting angry on her behalf. She was getting told off constantly and the poor girl couldn't do anything right. The adults would say 'typical Annie, doing what she does best, being naughty *rolls eyes*. As a former teacher, I I hate this attitude to children. Children make mistakes, as do adults, and it is painful when people can't ever make things up. Annie would talk about trying to be good, and they would still find something to admonish, and was becoming so frustrated that I was losing the thread of the actual story.
Annie was a great character and I would have appreciated a faster pace, and an adult that would defend her to the others.
I have to say, the narrator does a good job of keeping me interested, but the plot didn't. I was at 34% when I realised nothing had really happened, but I continued because I liked the narrator and was still rooting for Annie. But then I noticed poor Annie had been making a bad name for herself with the adults around her and I was just getting angry on her behalf. She was getting told off constantly and the poor girl couldn't do anything right. The adults would say 'typical Annie, doing what she does best, being naughty *rolls eyes*. As a former teacher, I I hate this attitude to children. Children make mistakes, as do adults, and it is painful when people can't ever make things up. Annie would talk about trying to be good, and they would still find something to admonish, and was becoming so frustrated that I was losing the thread of the actual story.
Annie was a great character and I would have appreciated a faster pace, and an adult that would defend her to the others.
November 2, 2021
I was pleasantly surprised by this little gem of a novel. Coming of age stories are one of my favorite books and this was no exception. I loved Annie, the main character! The story follows Annie through several timelines and when listening to it, I really needed to pay attention because it could be a little confusing. My only criticism of the novel was that Annie was pretty naive, even as an adult and it seemed a little unrealistic, but I loved and sympathized with Annie, so I forgave her for it. The narrator of this audiobook, Joanna Ruiz, was amazing! I never listened to a book that she narrated before, so it was a pleasant surprise. She was able to bring Annie alive as both a child and young adult. If my mind drifted at the beginning of a chapter and I missed the timeline date, I could often tell by the small changes in her voice and inflections between the young Annie and the adult Annie. I will certainly be on the lookout for this narrator and the author for other works.
Thank you to NetGalley and Saga Egmon Audio for an Arc of this audiobook.
Thank you to NetGalley and Saga Egmon Audio for an Arc of this audiobook.
November 4, 2021
The Dissent of Annie Lang by Ros Franey is the story about the precocious, naive, and insolated Annie who knows there is something not quite right with the grown ups in her life.
Annie's family are founding members of their church. Annie got mad at Jesus when her mom died and then her father married their very strict mean housekeeper. When her new mother wants the family dog out of the house Annie sneaks the dog back in late at night. Hiding in the basement she is confused when she sees from the window a pair of high heels next to her father's shoes. When she realizes who wears those shoes she knows she has stumbled on something wrong.
As Annie grows up she realizes the adults in her life are more about "do what I say not what I do." Told with the anxiousness of youth narrator Joanna Ruiz brings reality to Annie trying to understand the world around her. I would have liked more than Annie's point of view but after all it is her story.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the publishers via NetGalley for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Annie's family are founding members of their church. Annie got mad at Jesus when her mom died and then her father married their very strict mean housekeeper. When her new mother wants the family dog out of the house Annie sneaks the dog back in late at night. Hiding in the basement she is confused when she sees from the window a pair of high heels next to her father's shoes. When she realizes who wears those shoes she knows she has stumbled on something wrong.
As Annie grows up she realizes the adults in her life are more about "do what I say not what I do." Told with the anxiousness of youth narrator Joanna Ruiz brings reality to Annie trying to understand the world around her. I would have liked more than Annie's point of view but after all it is her story.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the publishers via NetGalley for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 1, 2021
Thank you Netgalley for this audiobook edition of The Dissent of Annie Lang by Ros Franey.
Annie Lang has lost her beloved mother at a young age, only to have her replaced by her cold stepmother. Her childhood was not a pleasant one, but after leaving for school, and then returning, she learns just how unpleasant it really was.
Forced to rely on her steel and determination, Annie has to advocate for several members of her family. She will also discover a betrayal by an unexpected member of her family. Through her diary entries, Annie works to uncover what lead to the demise of her brother's life, and who is to blame.
This was pretty good, perhaps I would have enjoyed it as a younger person, someone closer to Annie's age. There was a bit too much time spent on the family dog, and where the dog was sleeping. I also got a bit confused at the timelines. Otherwise, a pretty solid and interesting story.
Annie Lang has lost her beloved mother at a young age, only to have her replaced by her cold stepmother. Her childhood was not a pleasant one, but after leaving for school, and then returning, she learns just how unpleasant it really was.
Forced to rely on her steel and determination, Annie has to advocate for several members of her family. She will also discover a betrayal by an unexpected member of her family. Through her diary entries, Annie works to uncover what lead to the demise of her brother's life, and who is to blame.
This was pretty good, perhaps I would have enjoyed it as a younger person, someone closer to Annie's age. There was a bit too much time spent on the family dog, and where the dog was sleeping. I also got a bit confused at the timelines. Otherwise, a pretty solid and interesting story.
October 21, 2021
Picked this up as an easy listen and I'm so glad I did. I finished the book in 2 days and wanted it to continue on!
Annie is quite precocious and I found myself grinning as she went about her day with her cheeky thoughts. But more than the enjoyment of listening to this audio book was the life lesson that Annie, her sister Beatrice, and her brother, Fred teach us. I will say that my emotions were on a roller coaster and I was quite perturbed. I wanted to jump into the book and help Annie get through a few of her predicaments.
The book did slow down a bit 2/3 of the way through but it was such a great tale that I continued on and was glad I did.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the free download of this wonderful audio-book.
Annie is quite precocious and I found myself grinning as she went about her day with her cheeky thoughts. But more than the enjoyment of listening to this audio book was the life lesson that Annie, her sister Beatrice, and her brother, Fred teach us. I will say that my emotions were on a roller coaster and I was quite perturbed. I wanted to jump into the book and help Annie get through a few of her predicaments.
The book did slow down a bit 2/3 of the way through but it was such a great tale that I continued on and was glad I did.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the free download of this wonderful audio-book.
January 4, 2022
It was very hard getting into this and not just shelving it and moving on. The beginning is monotonous and quite slow, and then felt it dragged again for the last third, but, at that point, I was too invested in the story to not finish.
Franey masterfully weaves Annie, age 16, who discovers a heinous injustice and and Annie, age 6 to 12, who does not understand the evidence of this unjustice she witnesses. The build-up, at times was excruciating, but when the mystery of the story truly took hold I was so invested in Annie and all who sought to help her.
This was an emotional rollercoaster and a little disturbing at times. Franey developed well-rounded and rich characters, particularly Annie who was charming, bold, and truly relatable.
Franey masterfully weaves Annie, age 16, who discovers a heinous injustice and and Annie, age 6 to 12, who does not understand the evidence of this unjustice she witnesses. The build-up, at times was excruciating, but when the mystery of the story truly took hold I was so invested in Annie and all who sought to help her.
This was an emotional rollercoaster and a little disturbing at times. Franey developed well-rounded and rich characters, particularly Annie who was charming, bold, and truly relatable.
December 7, 2021
This was a very heartbreaking story of seeing life through the eyes of a child and then in the future timeline, discovering truths that are too terrible that comprehend,
The narration was fantastic and although the story started a bit slow it did pick up about halfway through. That’s where the big mystery really began and started grabbing my attention more and more.
There are definitely some potential trigger warnings and the very rigid religious aspect might be hard to hear for some. Overall though, I found it to be an interesting story to listen to.
Thanks to Netgalley for this gifted audio copy.
The narration was fantastic and although the story started a bit slow it did pick up about halfway through. That’s where the big mystery really began and started grabbing my attention more and more.
There are definitely some potential trigger warnings and the very rigid religious aspect might be hard to hear for some. Overall though, I found it to be an interesting story to listen to.
Thanks to Netgalley for this gifted audio copy.
December 28, 2023
This book had me gripped from start to finish.
Franey draws you into Annie's world starting as a 7 year old in a 1920s religious household in Nottinghamshire through her vivid insights into how a child perceives and assesses adult behaviour.
The novel has the thrill of a detective story, gradually revealing clues to the family's dark secrets which under the strict social conventions and the sect's code of honour cannot be discussed. Domestic and physical life at the time are cleverly depicted through Annie's unquestioning obedience to the rules of her upbringing.
Audiences of some contemporary dramas (Downton Abbey or Radio 4's Home Front) may feel on some familiar historical territory. But this story trumps anything radio or TV could offer.
It is Annie's unique stream of consciousness, culminating in her own spirited response to the hypocrisy and injustice which the reader is willing her to defy.
Franey draws you into Annie's world starting as a 7 year old in a 1920s religious household in Nottinghamshire through her vivid insights into how a child perceives and assesses adult behaviour.
The novel has the thrill of a detective story, gradually revealing clues to the family's dark secrets which under the strict social conventions and the sect's code of honour cannot be discussed. Domestic and physical life at the time are cleverly depicted through Annie's unquestioning obedience to the rules of her upbringing.
Audiences of some contemporary dramas (Downton Abbey or Radio 4's Home Front) may feel on some familiar historical territory. But this story trumps anything radio or TV could offer.
It is Annie's unique stream of consciousness, culminating in her own spirited response to the hypocrisy and injustice which the reader is willing her to defy.
May 17, 2018
A fascinating read, beautifully written. A story set in 1920s Midlands it describes the confined life of a family much bound up with The Mission and the children who have to cope with the loss of their mother and the arrival of a new one. Their dear dog plays a remarkable part. It is the unique voice of the young heroine, Annie Lang which carries this tale of mystery and deception to its dramatic finish. Annie is at once lovable, sharp and brave, with an irresistibly sparky way with God and the Bible.
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