Quick, engaging read.  Prowse’s storytelling drew me in and kept me absorbed.  But I’ll warn you…Bessie’s story is an emotional (and sometimes depressing) one… it takes some rain, after all, to get the rainbow at the end. 

It’s Bess’ 53rd birthday.  She should be at a point in life where she is fulfilled and confident.  Instead, she feels invisible, inadequate, and laden with guilt.  As the day unfurls, she looks back to her 16th birthday and the secret that derailed  her all those years ago.  Since then, she’s been passing time.  Just waiting to begin.  Will this birthday finally be a starting point for her?  

Prowse’s excavation of Bess’ inner thoughts was powerful.  I think many people can identify with some of her inner struggles… Have I made the most of my life?  Am I living to the fullest?  Am I true to myself or to the judgments of others?  

I thoroughly enjoyed the jaunt back to the 80s as Bess’ 16th birthday unfurled… from crop sweatshirts to Duran Duran to mixtapes…I was transported back in time to my childhood.    

Thank you Amanda Prowse, Amazon Publishing UK, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of this book.