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Her Name Was Annie
When Stephanie McGuire witnesses a mysterious stranger plunge into the unforgiving ocean, on a stormy afternoon, never to emerge again, her life will never be the same. That stranger in the water may have been more acquainted with her than she could’ve ever imagined. As she tries to put together the pieces of the mystery that surrounds him, she also begins to put back together the pieces of her heart. While learning of a past she never knew existed, she also manages to face the one she was fully aware of and had been avoiding for far too long.
One man she never knew will lead her down an unknown road to her past and on to a path of new beginnings.
One man she never knew will lead her down an unknown road to her past and on to a path of new beginnings.
Paperback
Published April 28, 2021
5 people are currently reading
1386 people want to read
About the author
Beth Rinyu
22 books580 followersEver since I can remember, I've always had a passion for Creative Writing. There's something special about being able to travel to a different place or become a different person with just the stroke of a pen--or in today's world a touch of the keyboard. Maybe it all started with the soap opera-level drama I used to script for my Barbie dolls. Plot twists, emotional arcs, surprise twins—it was basically a writer’s room before I even knew what one was. Whatever the spark, storytelling quickly became my favorite way to explore, create, and shake up reality just a little. I love stories that keep me on my toes. The kind that push me outside my comfort zone and introduce me to characters I either want to be friends with... or dramatically argue with in a fictional diner.
I love traveling to scout out new and exciting settings for my books—but nothing beats a peaceful walk in the woods or a seat by the ocean close to home. Turns out, plot twists and inspiration show up just fine with a sea breeze and squirrels.
I love traveling to scout out new and exciting settings for my books—but nothing beats a peaceful walk in the woods or a seat by the ocean close to home. Turns out, plot twists and inspiration show up just fine with a sea breeze and squirrels.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 23, 2021
5 Stars
Review by Jen Skewes
This book is the exact reason why I am a huge fan of Beth Rinyu’s writing. It is a unique storyline and completely out of the box. Flawless writing that sucked me in from the very first word. I devoured this book in a 24-hour period - which is quick considering life as a Mom and wife was going on at the same time. That is how amazing this book is
Steph is in her late forties and divorced. Her and her husband Jack have been divorced for the past 8 years. Jack was her high school sweetheart, best friend and love of her life for so long. But things got rocky between them and here she is, eight years later and still single. But little
did she know that the one Fall day while sitting on the beach that her life would change directions. She saw a man walk into the water that day, yelling at him to come back, but he just kept going. He was a
complete stranger but he changed the course of her life. That day changed her relationship with Jack and made her learn things about herself that she never expected to learn. It brought out secrets that no one saw coming. This is the story of how not only Steph’s life was affected but so many of those around her as well.
I don’t want to give anything away in this book. All I can see is READ IT!! It will suck you in, never wanting it to end. I fell in love with Jack from the moment I met me, even though I wasn’t sure that I would. Steph was a bit bitter and wasn’t always the warmest person, but I loved watching that part of her melt away. I loved watching her and Jack become close again. He was there for her even if she didn’t know that she needed him. He was there because he cared. To watch them rekindle their love was beautiful. But there is so much more to this story than a second chance Romance between two people who have loved each other for more than half their lives.
This a beautiful story of forgiveness, friendships, second chances and love. It’s about finding yourself again and learning to open yourself up to not just love but new relationships. From Jack and Steph’s relationship with their daughter, to welcoming people I to your life that you never knew you needed, to forgiveness, and admitting that your love never died.
Everything about this book will grip at your heart, have your emotions all tied up and rooting for Jack and Steph!! I was so sad to see it end and wanted so much more of these characters. And not because this book lacked anything because it didn’t. But just because I loved these characters and didn’t want to let them go! Well done Ms. Rinyu.
Review by Jen Skewes
This book is the exact reason why I am a huge fan of Beth Rinyu’s writing. It is a unique storyline and completely out of the box. Flawless writing that sucked me in from the very first word. I devoured this book in a 24-hour period - which is quick considering life as a Mom and wife was going on at the same time. That is how amazing this book is
Steph is in her late forties and divorced. Her and her husband Jack have been divorced for the past 8 years. Jack was her high school sweetheart, best friend and love of her life for so long. But things got rocky between them and here she is, eight years later and still single. But little
did she know that the one Fall day while sitting on the beach that her life would change directions. She saw a man walk into the water that day, yelling at him to come back, but he just kept going. He was a
complete stranger but he changed the course of her life. That day changed her relationship with Jack and made her learn things about herself that she never expected to learn. It brought out secrets that no one saw coming. This is the story of how not only Steph’s life was affected but so many of those around her as well.
I don’t want to give anything away in this book. All I can see is READ IT!! It will suck you in, never wanting it to end. I fell in love with Jack from the moment I met me, even though I wasn’t sure that I would. Steph was a bit bitter and wasn’t always the warmest person, but I loved watching that part of her melt away. I loved watching her and Jack become close again. He was there for her even if she didn’t know that she needed him. He was there because he cared. To watch them rekindle their love was beautiful. But there is so much more to this story than a second chance Romance between two people who have loved each other for more than half their lives.
This a beautiful story of forgiveness, friendships, second chances and love. It’s about finding yourself again and learning to open yourself up to not just love but new relationships. From Jack and Steph’s relationship with their daughter, to welcoming people I to your life that you never knew you needed, to forgiveness, and admitting that your love never died.
Everything about this book will grip at your heart, have your emotions all tied up and rooting for Jack and Steph!! I was so sad to see it end and wanted so much more of these characters. And not because this book lacked anything because it didn’t. But just because I loved these characters and didn’t want to let them go! Well done Ms. Rinyu.
March 29, 2021
Her name was Annie by Beth Rinyu tells the story of Stephanie, a 40 y/o divorced woman. One rainy day she discovers a stranger plunge into the ocean and never seen again. This leads into a mystery, which involves Stephanie. Her ex-husband, Jack assists with the investigation, as he works for the FBI.
Over the next several weeks’ secrets are revealed and the mystery reveals itself. A past is revealed and while discovering these secrets and individuals involved she rekindles a relationship with her ex-husband, who she has never stopped loving.
The message is beautiful, “If you lose a love like I did, I hope it transformed into a mutual admiration and not a regret. There should never be regrets where love is concerned, only contentment that it once existed. It’s something that can be experienced over and over again, even when we think love has faded and the person we held so dear is gone- whether it’s a song, a photograph or a place that reminds you of that special someone. Hold on to those things and don’t ever let them go.”
Ms. Rinyu is a true artist with her writing. This book is out of the box from her previous books, which makes her such a rare talent. It is also a mature couple – female late 40’s male 50, which is not common in the book world. I don’t want to give too much information on this book, as not to spoil it for the reader, however this is a 5 star read and should not be missed.
Over the next several weeks’ secrets are revealed and the mystery reveals itself. A past is revealed and while discovering these secrets and individuals involved she rekindles a relationship with her ex-husband, who she has never stopped loving.
The message is beautiful, “If you lose a love like I did, I hope it transformed into a mutual admiration and not a regret. There should never be regrets where love is concerned, only contentment that it once existed. It’s something that can be experienced over and over again, even when we think love has faded and the person we held so dear is gone- whether it’s a song, a photograph or a place that reminds you of that special someone. Hold on to those things and don’t ever let them go.”
Ms. Rinyu is a true artist with her writing. This book is out of the box from her previous books, which makes her such a rare talent. It is also a mature couple – female late 40’s male 50, which is not common in the book world. I don’t want to give too much information on this book, as not to spoil it for the reader, however this is a 5 star read and should not be missed.
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January 23, 2026If you enjoy a little mystery, a second chance romance and an older heroine (in her 40's) this may be the book for you!
Genre: Women's Fiction/Second Chance Romance/Older Heroine
Pre-order your copy today!
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XYL5373
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08XYL5373
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B08XYL5373
March 28, 2021
I was so lucky to get an advanced copy of Her Name Was Annie by @bethrinyu. I have loved all of Beth’s books and this was no exception.
Stephanie is a divorced mom of a college senior, whose ex-husband is a FBI agent. Her mom recently passed away. When a stranger dies on the beach by her home, it sets a domino effect in place of secrets Stephanie never knew. There were a few characters I wanted to smack, a few I wanted to hold. My emotions were all over the place and I loved every word of it.
Stephanie is a divorced mom of a college senior, whose ex-husband is a FBI agent. Her mom recently passed away. When a stranger dies on the beach by her home, it sets a domino effect in place of secrets Stephanie never knew. There were a few characters I wanted to smack, a few I wanted to hold. My emotions were all over the place and I loved every word of it.
April 30, 2021
A story I didn’t see coming.
A journey I couldn’t have predicted.
Buckle your seatbelt ladies your about to go for a ride of emotions. Chills, thrills , twists and turns. This book was so good. Beth never disappoints me with her stories. They’re all so different but give you the same sense of satisfaction in the end. Undoubtedly one of my favorites. An epic story with all the combinations of everything one needs in a fulfilling story.
A journey I couldn’t have predicted.
Buckle your seatbelt ladies your about to go for a ride of emotions. Chills, thrills , twists and turns. This book was so good. Beth never disappoints me with her stories. They’re all so different but give you the same sense of satisfaction in the end. Undoubtedly one of my favorites. An epic story with all the combinations of everything one needs in a fulfilling story.
April 28, 2021
Wow! Incredible! Amazing! This is my first book by this author and I am thrilled to have found her! My full review coming soon.
August 30, 2022
I had took a long break from reading and came back to read this book. As usual Beth Rinyu did not let me down. Such a great story with ups and downs . I always feel like I know the characters while reading your books.
April 28, 2021
Five stars for Beth Rinyu’s newest book! One thing I love about Beth, is that she goes outside of the box on her stories. She gives us many stories in one. She gives us the pleasure of going on a bit of a mystery while giving us a second chance story.
Stephanie’s story will wrap around your heart. Her trials and tribulations will have you guessing. There are so many layers to this story. You won’t want to put it down.
Highly recommended.
*I was provided with an advanced copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest and voluntary review. All thoughts and opinions are those of my own.*
Stephanie’s story will wrap around your heart. Her trials and tribulations will have you guessing. There are so many layers to this story. You won’t want to put it down.
Highly recommended.
*I was provided with an advanced copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest and voluntary review. All thoughts and opinions are those of my own.*
April 26, 2021
Once again (and as always) Beth has hit a home run....I am an extremely crazy reader. My kindle is filled with over 600 books and I have read them all. Years of authors have slid by and they are only a few that stand out. Beth is one of them, along with the likes of Danielle Steel, Catherine Coulter, Nora Roberts, just to name a few.With Beth, No matter where the story takes you, you feel like you are right there and its happening to you. I have been a fan from the very beginning and continue to be amazed at the depth of the writing..and the excitement it brings....This story will literally bring you to your knees...You will laugh, cry, get mad, have a ton of emotional moments thru out the entire book. This story is what you call a GOOD READ............................ALL of her other books are sitting nestled next to each other on my bookshelf.....CANT WAIT FOR THE NEXT.....................
May 8, 2021
Stephanie starts out in a weird place in the story. She's kind of just floating in life, a bit lost with recent & not so recent changes. We follow her through some tough things, some happy things... This is a hard review to write w/o giving spoilers!
I'll just say there is a lot of mystery, intrigue, and love to this story. Stephanie & Jack become intertwined once again, and there is healing that needs to happen. The healing doesn't only center on their relationship, but also w/ other relationships throughout the story... And again I'm trying to navigate w/o spoiling awesome plot points that are best read for yourself!!
: )
I'll just say there is a lot of mystery, intrigue, and love to this story. Stephanie & Jack become intertwined once again, and there is healing that needs to happen. The healing doesn't only center on their relationship, but also w/ other relationships throughout the story... And again I'm trying to navigate w/o spoiling awesome plot points that are best read for yourself!!
: )
May 2, 2021
Let me tell you this..when I read the blurb I thought the story would be completely different to what I got..and you know what??? I was wrong and I am so glad I was because this story is so captivating and emotional..a true journey in every sense..family, romance, secrets, forgiveness..on and on it goes!
I am actually surprised and I don't know why..I suppose since this is a new to me author I wasn’t adequately prepared..
I loved this story and I hope more people will pick it up cause it's that good!
I am actually surprised and I don't know why..I suppose since this is a new to me author I wasn’t adequately prepared..
I loved this story and I hope more people will pick it up cause it's that good!
May 23, 2021
Absolutely amazing! Loved this book. It had romance, mystery, loss and some humor with Max the dog. Great job Beth!
May 10, 2021
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Thank you to everyone involved!!!
Part mystery - part romance. Perfect
combination of the two! Great book - great
characters!
Thank you to everyone involved!!!
Part mystery - part romance. Perfect
combination of the two! Great book - great
characters!
September 17, 2021
I enjoyed this book! It had a little bit of everything - romance, mystery, family drama. It was well-written and was pretty straightforward. An enjoyable read.
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. Thank you to the author/publisher for my copy.
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. Thank you to the author/publisher for my copy.
June 24, 2025
I love a good, mature, adult read and Her Name Was Annie by Beth Rinyu was just that.
Written in the POV of Stephanie, a 48-year-old divorcee that has been through a lot and caused her marriage to end. Her ex-husband, Jack is an FBI agent and 17 years ago while pregnant someone ran over Stephanie and their unborn baby died. Stephanie never could forgive her husband and basically ended their marriage emotionally… he eventually strayed from their marriage one time and that was the excuse Stephanie needed to officially end their marriage. Jack always loved Stephannie and would give anything at another chance with her.
While walking the beach, Stephanie watches a man walk in the ocean and never come out. The mystery of this man changes everything Stephanie knew about her life. This isn’t a “mystery” per say…. It’s about discovering the truth who Stephanie is and the people that connect the dots to who that man in the ocean was. It’s about discovery. While there is romance thrown-in, Stephanie and Jack still love each other, and they become closer during this time. Stephanie still has issues with so much…. Does she truly still love Jack or just depend on him?
At times, the story did slow down…. And it wasn’t that much of a shocker on how the events played out, but I really enjoyed the adult characters and storyline. I loved that it felt REAL… it didn’t feel like a cheesy romance novel. If you have not read a Beth Rinyu book before, I highly suggest you do for a good adult read. This one was not my favorite, but I always appreciate BR’s writing style and characters.
I give Her Name Was Annie by Beth Rinyu 3.5 stars!
Written in the POV of Stephanie, a 48-year-old divorcee that has been through a lot and caused her marriage to end. Her ex-husband, Jack is an FBI agent and 17 years ago while pregnant someone ran over Stephanie and their unborn baby died. Stephanie never could forgive her husband and basically ended their marriage emotionally… he eventually strayed from their marriage one time and that was the excuse Stephanie needed to officially end their marriage. Jack always loved Stephannie and would give anything at another chance with her.
While walking the beach, Stephanie watches a man walk in the ocean and never come out. The mystery of this man changes everything Stephanie knew about her life. This isn’t a “mystery” per say…. It’s about discovering the truth who Stephanie is and the people that connect the dots to who that man in the ocean was. It’s about discovery. While there is romance thrown-in, Stephanie and Jack still love each other, and they become closer during this time. Stephanie still has issues with so much…. Does she truly still love Jack or just depend on him?
At times, the story did slow down…. And it wasn’t that much of a shocker on how the events played out, but I really enjoyed the adult characters and storyline. I loved that it felt REAL… it didn’t feel like a cheesy romance novel. If you have not read a Beth Rinyu book before, I highly suggest you do for a good adult read. This one was not my favorite, but I always appreciate BR’s writing style and characters.
I give Her Name Was Annie by Beth Rinyu 3.5 stars!
May 18, 2021
I'm a huge fan of Beth's writing style and her latest release "Her Name was Annie" certainly didn't disappoint. I started to read this book on my flight to TN, and finished on my flight back to NJ. I was immedialy hooked and just couldn't put it down -- I was even a little bit excited when they announced there would be delay on my return flight lol! If you like romance with a twist of mystery thrown in, then this is your book! I don't want to give away anything, but can tell you this is an intriquing story about love, loss, secrets and forgiveness. It is quite literally an emotional rollercoaster leaving you drained from tears to laughter to screams of anger. Stephanie is a single mom in her late 40's with a collage age daughter, divorced from her ex-husband Jack, who had been her high school sweetheart. Unfortunately, as it does so often, their relationship fell apart. Little did Steph know how her life would change the day when a complete stranger dies at the beach and the chain of events that followed. HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!
March 18, 2022
I enjoyed this book. It was good and the way it was written, over a year of Stephanie's life, was nice. Very thankful for the epilogue!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews